103/ 35 Impactful Pieces: Developing A Summer Style Language
Single layer shapes (on sale!) doing the heavy-lifting for you this summer - and beyond.
Hello readers!
In my last newsletter, I outlined a three-step approach to make your summer outfits more visually interesting. Click here for a quick review!
For your warm weather needs, many of you default to the “basic basic” under layers of your fall/winter wardrobes. And, I totally get why you do this. If your summers are relatively short, it seems wasteful to spend money on “non-basic basics” that you’re covering up eight months out of the year.
But, what would happen if we were to replace those “basic basics” with “non-basic basics,” i.e. individual pieces which, on their own, are interesting enough to make a statement? In doing so, you would now have pieces to wear in the summer with a genuine point of view, and — just maybe — your existing basics would become redundant. Something to consider!
The most effective way to add visual interest to your summer outfits is by choosing pieces with impactful shapes and lines, whether in the neckline, sleeve, body or leg. Secondarily, you can achieve this through texture, colour, etc…
As promised in my last post, I’ve sourced summer pieces for you that achieve this impact and — bonus! — are also versatile. Yes, you can wear all of them this summer. Yes yes, you can also wear most of them during the three other seasons, whether by layering over/under, or by pairing them with heavier fabrics.
Dressy Tops
It’s no secret that I love a sweetheart neckline! To add to my collection, I bought this grey Massimo Dutti number, and it’s a keeper. I’ll be taking it on vacay with me this summer, and in the fall, I’ll be layering it over a fitted top or a button-up shirt.
This COS sleeveless blazer vest would be a no-brainer, summer go-to for me if I worked a corporate job (and if COS delivered duty-free to Canada — when, COS, when??). In the colder months, just throw a tee or a long sleeve top under it.
Khaite’s Helene twist mockneck is an elegant classic and it’s on sale at Matches right now.
Casual Tops
This Zara short sleeve sweatshirt is similar to the one I bought last season. I got so much wear out of it, and this season it comes in four versatile neutrals. See also: What I’m Wearing from April to September 2023.
I ordered this Massimo Dutti crochet top. Being black and with a relatively tight knit, it’s a tame interpretation of the crochet trend that I think will transcend the current trend cycle. I like the shape, and it can also be worn under blazers in the winter. I’ll let you know what I think once I receive it!
Yes, the red tank is fairly basic, but it’s also red — a fresh pop against an otherwise neutral palette. (Also, the thin straps and low scoop are good.)