Summer Staples (Even if We Aren’t Going Anywhere)

My summer style has evolved over the years in some ways. I’m going back to some warm weather basics. And, trying a few items that I thought were off-limits. Because if we aren’t wearing what we want, what’s the point?

You can listen to this post in Episode 59 of The Don’t Mix In podcast.

Here are the items from this post or ones that are similar. FashionNova Curve items: tie dye dress, yellow tank top dress, I get a 1x. Cut-off denim shorts. I got a 16. Wrap top bodysuit. I got this top in White and Nude in a 1x.

Style and Putting it in Perspective.

Let’s talk about style and putting it in perspective. I was debating about posting a picture on Instagram with a mini skirt. I was thinking, maybe it’s too much. You know when you start second guess yourself? Then I remembered a few things. First, we are in the middle of a pandemic; second, we are battling social injustices through the Black Lives Matter movement; third, Covid-19 is disproportionately impacting BIPOC; and I still can’t find Lysol. So, maybe I shouldn’t stress about a picture right?! At the same time, when times are intense, when the volume is turned up, balance is important. I try to stay engaged while making space to talk about clothes and experiences that bring JOY. Just because we don’t post doesn’t mean it’s not happening, am I right?!

“But your style does more than just send messages, to your mind or to others. New research shows it actually impacts how you think.” 

Inc.com

Summer Items I’ve Been Into

Here’s a round up of the summer items I’ve been wearing.

Camis and Slip Dresses

I already talked about why I like Camis in a previous post. Most of the same things I like about Camis applies to a Slip Dress. The straps are adjustable so you can control coverage. Both bring a luxe feeling to a summer outfit while still being light and airy. Finally, both pieces are versatile.

Summer Blazer

Next, a Summer Blazer is something I’ve been into this season. This is almost a no-brainer. You can wear a Summer Blazer with a Cami, Slip Dress, or with a Tank Top Dress (I will get into Tank Top Dresses in this post too). This piece is also good for those virtual events we are all having to attend either for work or for fun. Blazers just add more structure and polish to an outfit without much effort.

I think the key is to get the right fit. I like the dress to skim my shape (not suffocate it). So, play with the sizing.

On Bodycon Tank Top Dresses

Graphic Tees That Say Something

I recently read somewhere that women of a certain age shouldn’t wear graphic tees. Not sure why that is? Anyway, I don’t subscribe to that rule. I do pay attention to what the tee says and make sure it matches me. You can see that these tees go with what you know about me. I like my tees to be fitted. I think it works better for my shape and looks a bit more streamlined. Both of these tees are from the Self Love Collection from ThreadTank. You can get the pink one here and the grey one here. I partnered with them and you can use the discount code LIVBYVIV10 .

Denim Cut-Off Shorts

Have you tried wearing things you haven’t worn in years since we’ve been home? For me, I’ve had more time to wear casual stuff. This is my first pair of denim cut-off shorts (that I actually wear) in years. Usually these were uncomfortable or just a hot mess on me. What’s different this time is the fit – I went with higher waist style with some stretch.

A White Dress

“It just reminds me of summer” is what I say when I see anything with eyelets. Especially in white (as long as I don’t spill anything on myself )! I just love this dress. It’s all over the blog and my Instagram. I think a white dress is perfect for summer.

Tank Top Dress

Additionally, one dress that I’ve gotten into for Spring and Summer is a tank top dress. I talked about this item last summer. What is different is that these dresses are more of a bodycon style – and I am loving them! All of mine are from FashionNova Curve in a 1x. You can the tie dye one here. You can get the other ones here.

I wear them in different ways: with a blazer, on its own, with a button up shirt tied at the waist or with a denim jacket.

I think the key is to get the right fit. I like the dress to skim my shape (not suffocate it). So, play with the sizing.

A Summer (Mini) Skirt

This is an item I get every year. However, similar to the tank top dress, I’m going with a different style. In the past I was usually just going with a midi length skirt. This top is from FashionNova Curve. You can get it here.

Now, I’m comfortable going with a mini length. I used to be a bit hesitant about wearing shorter items. I got over that. As I mention in the podcast for this post, no one cares what I’m wearing anyway. So…Do you!

The Feeling Factor

The Intersection Between Style & Psychology

Summer – fit & feel are important around this time of the year since it is so hot. I’m always talking about how an outfit makes you feel. It’s probably the important thing, I think, when it comes to clothes. As long as you’re feeling good and comfortable, then you wear what you want to wear. Proper fit becomes key to feeling good. Especially in the summer, when you can ‘t fake a good fit. We are wearing less so you can’t layer over an ill fitting item. Additionally, I think summer is a more casual season so it’s a good time to try new styles. As long as you are comfortable, wear it!

Because getting dressed (and living life) should feel good! -Vivian

Rather listen to these posts instead of reading them? Check out the Don’t Mix In podcast. Join me as I dive into the topics from the blog. Don’t Mix In can be found on Apple Podcasts and pretty much anywhere you find your podcasts! If you are into what you hear, be sure to subscribe and leave me a review.