Summer is easily my least favorite time of year. I know that is an unpopular view and I can practically hear the gasps from through the computer screen, but all the bright colors and fun, fruity drinks in the world can't make up for the fact that it is hot all the time. Chicago got a late start on the unbearable weather this year so I am only just beginning to truly endure the misery, but I know that many of you have been living with this for several months now. I find it to extremely difficult to be motivated to wear anything remotely stylish when the thermometer shows anything above eighty degrees. As much as I want to look chic, I mostly end up just being a sweaty mess.
A major issue is that I love layering. I am already drooling over the thought of cozy, patterned cardigans and contrasting scarves even though fall is most definitely still out of reach. Summer doesn't lend itself well to many-pieced ensembles and so many of us (unless we are lucky enough to be in near constant air conditioning) find ourselves unhappy with our unstyled shorts and tees. A few days ago I tried to dress up my outfit without an additional layer and wore a large, sparkly necklace. Unfortunately, the base of the necklace is a thick metal chain and after about 20 minutes of sitting in the sun, the metal got so hot that it began to burn my neck. Not practical or stylish.
Since there are still weeks left of this unfortunate weather, I have compiled a collection of easy pieces that create visual interest without adding the physical weight:
A major issue is that I love layering. I am already drooling over the thought of cozy, patterned cardigans and contrasting scarves even though fall is most definitely still out of reach. Summer doesn't lend itself well to many-pieced ensembles and so many of us (unless we are lucky enough to be in near constant air conditioning) find ourselves unhappy with our unstyled shorts and tees. A few days ago I tried to dress up my outfit without an additional layer and wore a large, sparkly necklace. Unfortunately, the base of the necklace is a thick metal chain and after about 20 minutes of sitting in the sun, the metal got so hot that it began to burn my neck. Not practical or stylish.
Since there are still weeks left of this unfortunate weather, I have compiled a collection of easy pieces that create visual interest without adding the physical weight:
| When you are choosing a top to pair simply with your favorite neutral shorts or crops, opt for a fun woven shell instead of a knit tee. I love that this top has some fun detailing and a great pattern. Plus it will be a great transitional piece for fall--just layer it under a suit or pair with a skirt and cardigan for an easy and polished work ensemble. If your outfit still feels sloppy or unfinished, tuck in your top and add a skinny belt through your belt loops. Summer is the season that I am most glad that I have an extensive belt collection because it helps my outfits feel a bit more like me without all the extra layers. A little extra polish goes a long way to making you look chic no matter what the heat index is. |  Ann Taylor Dotted Ruffle Front Top $68 | Looking to add an accessory? Try adding a colorful bracelet that picks up the colors from the top. It creates some pizzazz without adding layers. It's hot out so keep everything light and simple.  Banana Republic Butterfly Bangle Set $35 |
 LOFT Colorblocked Elastic Waist Dress $79.50 | The absolute easiest remedy to a hot day fashion crisis is a great, flow-y dress. I love an easy, grab-and-go piece that requires zero thought and this definitely fits the bill. Both of these dresses have a defined waist so you get a great hourglass shape, but with plenty of room and stretch in the skirt for ease of movement all day long.
|  Gap Printed V-Neck Dress $59.95  Ann Taylor Sorbet Woven Skinny Belt $27 |
 Banana Republic Milly Collection Circle Embroidered Skirt $69.99 | When a tee is all you can bear to wear, choose a fun print for your bottom half. I love a great floral or geometric print, especially paired against a brightly contrasting color, like the citrine shirt paired with the orange floral shorts.
When the weather outside gets unbearable, keep your cool and look chic with elevated tops, flirty dresses and great patterns on your skirts and shorts. Don't underestimate the power of belts and bracelets when trying to add polish without layers and remember that the most important thing is to be comfortable in your clothes, no matter the heat. |  Land's End Canvas 5" Paisley Poplin Short $24.99 |
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