2020 is a summer like no other! Many have already had their holiday dreams shattered. And the rest are waiting to hear if they still have a holiday to look forward to. So when it comes to summer clothes shopping, none of us are quite sure what we’re shopping for! Is it a holiday wardrobe? Or is it daily summer wear that will see us through to knitwear season? Will we be limiting our social sphere to small scale garden drinks, or will we (fingers crossed) get to go to an actual event before the season is out?
Sorry, we can’t pretend to know the answers. What we can give you, though, is a handy list of must-have summer fashions that will keep you looking on point even if you’re only seen by the dog!
1 Baggy Bermudas
Where thigh hugging cycling shorts left off, a baggier surf chic has taken over. From floaty linens to a more tailored fit, look for shorts that sit just below the knee. The best way to wear baggy is to have a controlled shape underneath. This means that the fabric can hang in a more defined way. So go for waist support in this style – either max it with shaping shorts or choose a high waist control brief.
2 Sheer Layers
From chiffon to crochet, visible layering is the way to go this summer. The bravest among us will use this trend to flaunt an elaborate bra. Or go for a cami or bodysuit base layer if visible bras make you panic! Overlays are a great way to cover arms and legs in hot weather without getting yourself into a sweat. It’s also a chance to embrace that other style resurgence – mixed prints. If you’d rather not layer it up, you’ll find a patchwork of prints in many of this summer’s floatiest dresses.
3 Strappy Sandals
From thong high heels to ankle wrapped flats, go for the strappiest of footwear this summer. Strappy sandals are a great way to dress up an outfit, and always add a hint of glam! Go for dainty satins or full gladiatorial leather wound around your ankles. Of course, this could result in some insane tan lines, but all the more reason to buy a variety of pairs… right?
4 Low Slung
Waistlines are set to drop from the waist to the hip this summer. It’s a casual and aloof look, whether you go for shorts, trousers or a skirt. Low slung does not automatically mean flashing flesh, though. Tuck in a floaty shirt and team this look with a controlling bodysuit and your hipster cut will sit perfectly.
5 Halter Necks
If you shopped in the ’90s this one will take you back! Think Spice Girls for a figure-hugging active look, or seek out a floaty, sheer design for more of a bohemian feel. Choosing a bra can be a challenge with this style, so team it with a strapless corset or halter strapped bra for maximum confidence.
6 Denim Jumpsuits
The way to wear denim this summer is from shoulder to ankle – a classic jumpsuit! Go full 60’s in a boilersuit style, or a flirty romper will keep you cool in the heat. Or choose more of a dungaree cut for another strong 90’s vibe. The great thing about an all in one is that your shapewear is always safely tucked from view. So why not take the chance to embrace a drawstring cinched waist?
7 Your Existing Wardrobe!
Although it’s great to add a few seasonal pieces to your wardrobe, how much of your stuff have you forgotten about? We all want to consume less, so take a moment to dig through your abandoned wardrobe and find those garments that have lapsed from your memory. Or that have even come around again… With the right shapewear, you may find that items that hung badly a decade ago look rather great!
Whatever this summer brings, Elle Courbee is here to make sure that you always have your foundation layer under control. And that is one thing, at least, you can bank on!
Becky is an author and copywriter who has been writing about women’s issues and underwear for several years. She also writes blogs which cover a range of topics for local businesses.