If you’re anything like us, you’ll be keeping your fingers crossed for some glorious summer sunshine in the not-too-distant future. As we’re eternal optimists, we plan to stock our wardrobes with some great summer fashion that will bring out our inner sunshine whatever the weather! Trends this Summer are paying a nod to the ’90’s and boho chic so it’s all about creating a floaty and flirty look. These are our six essentials for Summer gorgeousness…
1. Summer Shoes
Yes, get those pedicures sorted, it’s time to stock up on this year’s best summer sandals! With key pieces to inspire passion, this season loves heels as a feature. From block heels to sculptured, moulded heels, this is where you should seek your wow factor! As far as straps go, your sandals should be minimalist. Go for skinny string straps and a barely-there look that suggests you’re floating on air! Whatever the trend, it’s vital to remember comfort. A great fitting pair of Summer shoes will help your posture to complement your line, especially when your core is supported by a good piece of shapewear.
2. Strappy Tops
Not great news for your tan lines, sorry! Again harking back to the ’90’s, this Summer’s tops are shoestring and floaty. Camisole tops will take you seamlessly from casual daytime to glamorous evening wear. Choose from a frilly, lacy boho look to striking patterns or neon: this item covers every base. The asymmetric vibe is still out there with one shoulder tops still current, as well as the classic bardot tops. So you’ll need to invest in a good strapless bra or corset to support everyday comfort and confidence.
3. Swimwear
No holiday wardrobe is complete without a cossie of some description. This Summer will see the resurgence of the one-piece. Indeed, with more and more of us conscious of skin damage caused by the sun, many ranges include full sleeve options. Texture is important this Summer, so look for crinkle fabrics, ribbed textures and knotted features.
4. Headgear
Shield yourself from the Summer sun with a straw trilby style hat. These are lightweight and perfect to set off that bohemian strappy top you’ve fallen in love with. The ‘90’s obsession continues apace with baker-boy peaks and festival-tastic bucket hats. These styles allow you to embrace the huge array of prints out there this season. If sun hats are your thing, go extravagantly oversized!
5. A Sundress
There’s a cut to suit everyone this Summer, with slip dresses, wrap dresses and prairie dresses on equal footing. The important things to remember are to stay floaty and go for print. From animal patterns to florals and paisley, no print is wrong this season. To carry off a floaty dress, it’s vital to maintain a structured foundation, so look for control briefs or control shorts to make sure that your dress only highlights the curves that you want it to!
6. Anything Neon
If in doubt, throw caution to the wind and choose something – anything – neon! Greens, yellows and oranges will give you a holiday feeling even on a Tuesday. Avoid looking like a highlighter pen by teaming your neon with neutral shades or prints. Or if it’s all a bit too much, limit your neon to accessories or footwear.
This time of year, when you’re shopping for Summer trends, don’t forget to update your plus size shapewear at the same time. There’s less scope to hide when the temperature hots up, so a good pair of control pants will keep your silhouette smooth and sleek. A strong foundation layer will enable you to confidently shed layers when the Summer sun arrives. Your new shapewear might even allow you to go sustainable and have the confidence to give the more forgotten pieces already in your wardrobe a new lease of life!
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.