Your summer wardrobe should be just as versatile and long lasting as your fall and winter staples.  What really differentiates you summer look from your fall look is the light feel, color and style of everything.  As the temperature heats up, you want to lighten up.  Choose colors that are brighter, like yellow and lighter like peach.  Breathable fabrics like cotton versus our heavy fall fabrics like wool and corduroy will lighten your look.  The style of each piece should also lighten up.  For example, tops should have open necklines and shorter sleeves.  Shoes should be open toe and have less volume overall.

Creating the perfect summer wardrobe is easy if you have some of summer’s most versatile basics.  Remember, embellishments and details like beads, sea shells, straw, floral prints and fruity colors will give each piece that light, signature summer feel!

White T-Shirt or Tank  Throw a lightweight scarf or a fun dramatic necklace with this all-American staple.  Opt for higher quality t-shirts since they often are more substantial to hide any imperfection and to keep this look polished.

Camisole  Perfect layered under a jacket or layered with other camis.  Try it paired with dark skinny jeans and a long necklace.

Sundress  My favorite summer piece!  A dress is always feminine and so easy to wear.  A cotton sundress can be paired with flip flops for a casual beach day or glammed up with heals and a fun necklace for a night out.

Swimsuit  Probably not your favorite piece to shop for, but finding one that works is key to making a splash this year.  Check out the article How to Not Look Fat in a Swimsuit for great tips on finding the most flattering suit.

Jackets  I love jackets any time of the year.  Wear them as an outfit or as a jacket, they are so versatile!  A nicely contoured jacket can also enhance any figure.  A shrunken leather motorcycle jacket can be sassy or a simple cotton jacket can be easy to wear for cool evenings.

Handbag  Your summer handbag can also lighten up with materials like straw or canvas for a great day bag.  Pick bags with neutral tones to keep them more wearable from year to year.  If you are a leather lover, like me, try a fun color like papaya or a neutral cream.

Sandals  Finally your toes can breath and you can show off your pedicure!  Sandals with narrow straps and heals look best in the summer.  Espadrilles or wedges are great for adding height to a pretty skirt or dress.  Embellishments on flats can make up for any loss of height.  Peep toes are perfect for a business casual office.