Being stylish does not always mean having to put on a pair of sky-high stilettos. In fact, I believe the test of a truly stylish woman is her ability to look equally as chic when dressed down in her favorite weekend attire.
I have always been a self-proclaimed “glam dresser.” Yet, in recent years, I have found myself gravitating to easier dressing. During my shopping haunts, I am constantly searching for the perfect cotton tee, a breezy dress or a great flat sandal.
Summer is all about a relaxed and laid-back mood. And I am relishing my newfound love for effortless staples. Being relaxed and at ease is the new style order of the season.
Here are my picks of relaxed reliables to keep us glam girls chic during these hot months:
Matching shorts and top set
A throwback to vintage dressing. There is something ultra chic and luxurious about throwing on a shorts-and-blouse set.
FLORAL-PRINT set—feminine blooms for hot summer days
BLACK-AND-WHITE print— For an edgier look, try a black-and-white athletic set.
VINTAGE print—a rich and luxurious look
Tropical prints to bring out the surfer girl in you
Flora, foliage and birds of every species are making a splash.
HOUSE of Hackney is known for its amazing prints.
HAWAIIAN-PRINT tunic by Zara is great as a cover-up or as a cool summer dress.
SURFER-GIRL-STYLE shift dress from Zara
Long caftan
Not just for your grandmother anymore, the long caftan has become every chic girl’s loungewear must-have.
YELLOW embellished caftan—Thanks to in-demand online store www.seektheuniq.com, Moroccan caftans have become the maxi dress of the season!
Fringe
Get in a hula mood! Put a swing to your step with fun fringe.
FRINGED kimono—Add some swag to a summer staple. Great worn with shorts or jeans.
FRINGED sandals by Tod’s—Even your feet get decked out.
FRINGED tote by Tory Burch—A statement-making beach tote that will not be missed
One-piece swimsuit
Skin-baring sights are no longer a rarity in this day and age. I find that wearing a sleek one-piece swimsuit is refreshing and sophisticated.
PRINTED one-piece—Find a print that flatters your personality and figure. This snakeskin piece by Melissa Odabash is a classic.
SOLID one-piece—Choose a solid-colored swimsuit in an interesting figure-flattering cut. Ruffled bustier one-piece by Eberjay
Updated espadrilles
Chic espadrilles with unusual details such as leather accents, lace or tiny studs
PRINTED espadrilles— Try floral, graphic or a camouflage print for instant punch.
EMBELLISHED espadrilles—This piece by Rebecca Minkoff has a hint of rock and roll.
LACE espadrilles—A change of fabric is all it takes to update a classic.
Iridescent lenses
Bright sunglasses in rainbow hues are a new must-have.
BLUE lenses—Ray-Ban’s bright-blue lenses are an update on the classic aviators.
ORANGE lenses—Kenzo’s sunset hues to see the world through
RED lenses from Le Specs are red hot against see-through acrylic.
Slip-on sneakers
Inspired by classic Vans sneakers, these slip-on sneakers in metallic leather, vibrant leopard and camouflage prints are sure to brighten up any outfit.
VANS metallic slip-ons
CUTOUT leather by Tory Burch
LEOPARD-PRINT slip-ons
Follow me on Instagram and Twitter @aminaaranaz