By Robyn Bardgett
Hot weather dressing has never been so effortless with a variety of easy, breezy styles available in local shops
When the weather heats up it can sometimes feel like a bit of a challenge to look pulled together without melting.
Luckily, the island’s shops are filled with a gorgeous range of colourful clothes in breathable fabrics and great shapes that will keep you looking fantastic even when the humidity is high.
There are a number of essentials that are perfect for this time of year which make dressing during the summer months much easier. In particular, dresses, in several refined lengths, make the perfect closet staple. A return to the ever-popular cotton and linen fabrics has made finding comfortable and stylish items a breeze.
“The staples that every woman should have in their wardrobe are Bermuda shorts, skorts and capris with matching colourful tops and beautiful printed dresses,” said Sharon Bartram, owner of 27th Century boutique.
Maxi dresses still dominate, and look good on every body type. This style can be dressed up or down depending on how you accessorize. And designers are creating pieces that incorporate many fun elements including pops of colour, bohemian styles, feminine prints, and applications like florals, lace and eyelet. But of course, even a little black dress is seasonless and, for summer, the midi length is a great choice.
“A good black midi dress in linen can be a versatile option with sandals and a hat for day or some fun jewellery and a wedge heel for a more glamorous night out,” said Julia Currelly, fashion director at TESS Ltd.
Other essentials that work well for the day to night transition include a lightweight pair of white jeans or linen trousers with a casual tee for daytime, or a dressy top for evening.
“Investing in a good quality hat is both practical and a good style choice,” advised Ms Currelly. “Look for UPF 50 protection and a packable material that will hold its shape well.”
Another way to give an update to an outfit is with a bralette. Paired under a strappy dress, kimono or under an open back top, it can help pull a look together. From lace, to soft, breathable fabrics and ones with tattoo-like designs, a bralette adds comfort and style and comes in options ranging from lingerie-inspired to full coverage sports bras.
Shorts also continue to be available in sophisticated and updated styles with accents like ruffles and bright prints that easily transition into evening wear while still being comfortable.
And maintaining comfort, especially when contending with hot, sticky conditions, is the most important part to looking and feeling good.
“No matter what size you are, a woman can look good in anything,” said The Things We Love owner, Rachel Perry. “It is important you are honest with yourself and always purchase the right size. Master this and you will feel confident, comfortable and therefore look amazing.”
Find a trusted sales associate or friend to help select the best styles for your body, suggested Ms Currelly, who advised investing in a good tailor.
“Getting clothes to fit you properly is key,” she said. “You will be more comfortable and look your best by getting the bigger pair [of trousers] and having the waist taken in.”
