The Answer to Every Summer Style Question You've Ever Had

While it might also be time for you to invest in a pair of desert boots in suede, or perhaps a white patent design, close-toe shoes are definitely not off limits in the Summer. In fact, they’re the best option for cooler nights or outdoor events, like music festivals, when you want to protect your feet. A heavier, thicker boot will ground your look, so make sure you add a feminine, flowy shirt up top to strike a balance.

If the all black look is just written in your soul, there’s no reason you can’t keep up your signature style. But if you want to appear season appropriate, invest in pieces that are made with breezy fabrics, like a wrap dress or a linen sundress, or just use your trusty black accessories to accent a lighter-toned look.

As long as it’s not a thick furry cocoon coat, you’re good to go. There are so many mixed media bags with pom-pom accessories, and even miniskirts with furry details that were meant for the Summer. Fashion trends and details are becoming seasonless, so if you like the look, there’s a Summer appropriate option for you. As far as leather goes, you’re in the clear. Not only are there lightweight, faux leather moto jackets in pastel shades but there are plenty of bralettes, shorts, and shoes offered in leather that are also right on trend.

With one-pieces being all the rage, this is a go-to look for so many girls who take a break from sunbathing to grab brunch. If you’d prefer your look to appear more streamlined and neat, make sure your suit doesn’t have a graphic print, but rather a nice textured fabric in a solid colorway.

There are so many modest dresses and tops that work for the office, and even for happy hour after you check out. If you have a strict dress code you have to abide by, look for a piece with a high neckline or a collar and pair it with a longer skirt or trousers. It’s all a balancing act — so if you’re showing skin up top, make up for it on the bottom.

The key is to find a hat that isn’t dramatically floppy, but a little more stiff; that way it’s just as functional as it is stylish. While cowboy hats are a great option, they don’t exactly achieve that laid-back beach look you might be going for on vacation. So, a neutral straw topper that’s midsize is your best bet. If you’re more sporty, however, any type of baseball cap is fair game. Find one with a slogan or floral print to make a real statement.

There are plenty of lightweight scarves meant for the Summer, many of which are finished with cutesy pom-poms and fringe. You should absolutely invest in one and save your thicker cashmere or wool designs for the Winter. Bandanas also make for great makeshift scarves that are smaller — so you can tie these around your beach bag, use as a makeshift headwrap, or fold one over and secure around your neck to work as a choker with a swimsuit.

Long silk duster coats, denim jackets, and canvas-like caftans work best for the Summer, depending on your style. These pieces all feel light and breezy, unlike your puffer coat, and they can even double as your swimsuit coverup on the way to the beach or after sundown.

You can always take a tip from Emily Ratajkowski, a supermodel who’s quite a fan of this look. But the key is to find colors that match, and prints that complement, rather than distract from one another. Most of the time, mixing a solid top with a patterned bottom works best — or vice versa. And if you have a neutral-toned, printed bikini separate that’s black and white, feel free to coordinate it with a bright color that pops.

Yes, as long as you know it won’t tarnish and that you won’t lose it, if it’s important. But there’s also plenty of costume jewelry you can invest in that’s practically made to be worn with swimwear. Body chains, anklets, and even cheeky fruit-shaped earrings can, and should be, worn to play up your look.

Some of the trendiest bikinis are sporty ones these days, so you absolutely can, so long as you feel comfortable in it and you don’t mind the tan lines. (Of course, you should be wearing plenty of sunscreen anyway). Try to find one with interesting, eye-catching details like a superstrappy back to draw attention to your shoulders, and pair with an equally comfy bottom. Your best bet is to make sure the sports bra you're in is water resistant, that way it doesn't become sheer once you leave the water.

The easiest way to do this, since many coverups and beach dresses are sheer, is to invest in a slip or a silk minidress. If yours promises you full coverage in a solid color, add a little more oomph to your look with trendy jewelry, platform sandals, sunglasses, or a bag, just to stress the fact that this is your “going out” outfit.