With countless fashion magazines on the market and top fashion stylists suggesting hundreds of different items for people to invest in, it’s easy to get a little overwhelmed when trying to determine your San Diego summer attire. To make matters worse, overly trendy styles tend to be overpriced, unflattering to bodies measuring anything more than 34-24-34, and quickly outdated.
Luckily, I’ve perfected a list of seven summer style tips for designing wardrobes that are versatile from day into night, as well as enduring beyond the San Diego summer season.
1) Jewelry: More Is More
This year, necklaces and rings are huge—literally. Eye-catching pieces of jewelry make low-key ensembles interesting. Regardless of whether you’re trying to add more pizzazz into that little dress before going out clubbing, or you just need something interesting to add to that casual shirt-and-jeans combo, a statement ring or chain necklace will prove you’ve got style.
Where to find it: Urban Outfitters, So Good, Neiman Marcus, Steady Boutique
2) As Easy as Black and White
Black and white pieces help summer ensembles look crisp, modern and chic, yet bold. The key to this savvy style is to keep accenting jewelry to a minimum—a pair of diamond studs or perhaps a statement ring is all you really need.
Where to find it: The River, Gracie Boutique
3) Dress It Up
Stock your closet full of dresses, dresses, dresses! This season, they are hotter than snap-bracelets in the early 90’s. From tunics to A-line cuts, trapeze to bubble, dresses create instant glam.
Summer’s combination of subtle fabrics and carefree drape cuts helps seal in a refreshingly youthful look. Continue to follow spring’s “above the knee” hemline—these comfortable yet uncomplicated dresses are perfect whether running daytime errands, or swapping in a pair of heels for a night in Downtown San Diego.
Where to find it: Fresh Boutique, GO of La Jolla
4) Textures and Prints
Stock your wardrobe full of prints, and use them to update classic pieces. For example, pair a strapless floral dress with metallic ballet flats during the day, then transition them into heels at night. Fortunately, the stressful days of matching shoes to your outfit are over, so forget what your mother told you and swap in some metallic hue shoes to avoid that overly-cutesy look.
Where to find it: JEP Boutique, Lets Go, Rumors Boutique
5) Lace It Up
If you’re in the mood for a little romance, don a little lace. Lace is my most preferred texture of the season because anyone can wear it worry-free. Whether you’re in the office or out at night, lace is the perfect extra embellishment. In San Diego, my two favorite places not only have a great selection, but they are much more elegant than that stringy cami you’d find at Victoria’s Secrete. Wear it to work under a blazer, or at night paired with my fashion tip number six: cropped jackets.
Where to find it: Matti D, Niche Boutique
6) Cropped Jackets
Cropped jackets are key pieces that will transition from summer to fall. Layer them over dresses or tank tops, depending on your destination. Use caution, as cropped jackets tend to add some extra bulk unless paired with something like an A-line cut skirt or narrow pant.
Where to find it: Steady Boutique, Niche Boutique
7) Let There Be White
Finally, if your handbags seem dull and flavorless, try adding a more refreshing color to your standard collection of black and browns: white. From your oversized tote to your mini clutch, this season’s hottest shade will make other accessories pop (especially when paired with standard attire).
Apprehensive about investing in a quality white handbag? You’ll be relieved to learn a simple window cleaning solution can keep it clean. I guarantee you’ll love boasting your spotless, fashionable accessory.
Where to find it: Neiman Marcus, Melange Boutique
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