Holly Bell, Maxx Models & Talent Owner
Essentials of Summer Fashion and Beyond
Key Pieces for You!
Do you have a closet full of clothes but nothing to wear? That is a problem that so many of us have! How do we solve this dilemma? By focusing on timeless, simple, key pieces that can be worn year around!
As we grow older, our style changes from wearing the hot trends to wanting to look sophisticated and chic. Our style naturally tends to be more thoughtful, intentional and elevated. However, we can still enjoy ongoing trends that fit our age, lifestyle and indulge in some fun at the same time. As we look in our closet, ask yourself if each item fits your lifestyle now. I personally love to dress up, but having a closet full of dressy outfits when you work from home makes no sense no matter how pretty they are. At the opposite end of the spectrum, just because you have a very casual lifestyle doesn’t mean you only have a closet full of yoga outfits and sweats! What is needed are basic key pieces you can wear anywhere, make you feel good about yourself, and can be worn many ways as they can be dressed up or down. Here are 8 key pieces that I recommend.
- A perfect fit button up the front shirt. A tailored shirt will be one of your favorite pieces. White is great, but so are a few in your favorite colors. I always recommend pale blue; this sky-blue tone is having a moment right now and is flattering on everyone. A simple small pattern like a small stripe or polka dot could be good too. Both are timeless and work for any season. The current way to style a button up the front shirt is to leave the top two buttons undone and the sleeves should be rolled up to your elbow. Having a bit of arm showing is both youthful, modern and slimming.
- A white T-shirt. Whether you prefer a crew neck, V-neck, short sleeve or three-quarter sleeve, this is an essential piece. It should be made of a knit fabric that is thick enough so it is not see through and should skim your body perfectly. Length is important too. If you plan on tucking it in, make sure it is not too long. The shorter your height, proportion calls for a shorter length. Petite gals need to either tuck in or if untucked, falling a little below the waistline. This creates a longer leg look.
- High quality knit cardigans. Not only are cardigans a good investment and fashionable but they are incredibly versatile too. They add a third piece which is a fashionista trick for wearing an outfit that looks intentional and thoughtful. Buttoned up the front, worn open with your white tee, or tied around your shoulders as a scarf, this piece will be one of your favorites.
- A timeless cut blazer. Adding a blazer to your outfit instantly improves your appearance. A favorite and trending color is camel. Black or brown are just as good. Skip the trendy oversized cuts or fancy details and go with a simple, plain, basic blazer that looks good on your body.
- Perfect fit basic jean. A boot cut or straight leg jean in a dark wash is the best choice for most women. Skip the rips and distressed looks. A plain dark wash can be dressed up with a silky blouse and blazer or dressed down with a T-shirt. Be sure the length is what looks best on you. A pair of jeans that ends around the top of the heel can be worn with a variety of shoe heights.
- Modern black trousers. A well-fit black pant is one of the most versatile pieces on the planet. Whether it is a pull on or a zip and button, find the black pant that skims your body and doesn’t cling. Like a timeless jean, a straight cut will never go out of style.
- Straight or flowing maxi-skirt. A maxi-skirt is amazingly versatile. For summer, there is nothing better than a black or white full-length skirt. Great with a denim shirt or jacket, perfect when belted with your white or colorful tee or even dressed up with a blazer a midi or maxi skirt is always on trend and can be worn in winter with boots or in the summer with sandals or sneakers.
- The one and done dress. Find a dress you feel fabulous wearing. It should be simple, body-skimming and made of a substantial fabric with stretch. Sometimes you don’t want to think too hard or are short on time, you just want to throw on an easy outfit.
Enjoy your Summer always having something you love to wear!
