These 6 Trending Looks Are Exciting Both of My Style Personas
Sponsor Content Created With Cartier
How would you describe your personal style? My fashion sense reflects everything from where I've lived, places I've been, things I've seen, my friends, my work, my mood, all of which are constantly evolving, so it's hard to just put a few descriptors together and call that my style. Sometimes I wake up wanting to feel more classic while other days I feel bold, and to be honest, that's half the fun of getting dressed.
This outfit guide is curated with that thought in mind. I've interpreted three major summer trend stories in very different ways, with every look finished with Clash de Cartier (a jewelry collection designed based on this exact notion). From color for the new season to chic summer suiting, here are six summer outfits to satisfy both the classic dresser and your inner rebel.
Even a neutral color palette can be interpreted in a number of ways to feel fresh and modern, and for me, sometimes that means adding a pop—like a bright shoe or wallet detail—for an element of surprise. Unexpected styling details make elegant pieces feel effortlessly cool and extra special, whether that's a vacation-inspired tie-waisted skirt or elegant white-gold jewelry that seamlessly stacks for just a little edge. From rings and bracelets to watches, let the jewels shine.
If you want to experiment with bolder combinations, I'm pleased to say summer is catering to both ends of the color spectrum. I'm of the mindset that you should go bright up top and softer on the bottom, so I suggest starting there. High-waist linen pants that are the perfect shade of chartreuse are elegantly refreshing, but when you add a bright yellow top and sporty lavender sandals, there's an instant cool factor that's hard to go unnoticed. And let's not forget a printed overshirt that makes the entire look staycation-worthy. Because why not? But the final layer of fun comes in the form of mixed-metal jewelry à la stacked rings and small hoop earrings for that extra edge.
Suits are still a thing, and my love for them hasn't changed, even if I don't have an office to wear mine right now. While I'm not totally into the three-piece look, I fully support something more low-key like a white linen shorts suit—blazer and all—paired with staple white sneakers offset by a black bag and racer tank top. It's the perfect canvas for layering elegant pink-gold necklaces of various lengths and styles. But don't let your accessorizing stop there—a classic bracelet with a unique twist is a great conversation starter, so why not throw one on for good measure?
Now this is the perfect example of summer suiting that's more laidback but equally chic. Forget about solid tones and traditional pieces and try the opposite: I'm talking pink high-waist tie-dye linen shorts and a matching oversize top left unbuttoned and layered over a crop top. If you're thinking that a pair of black platform sandals and chunky sunglasses are exactly what this outfit needs, well, you're absolutely right. And it only makes sense to pack a punch with your jewelry, too. Mix your metals and grab as many hoops as your ear piercings can hold and invite your wrists to the party by stacking a few bracelets. It's all about balance.
I personally think it's really cool when you can throw something on and feel totally pulled together and comfortable. Such is the case with romantic dresses—they billow and waft and leave plenty of room for movement. I particularly love this coral one that has puffy sleeves and a strategically placed cutout at the waist that gives the illusion of separates. Teamed with a simple pair of lace-up sandals and jewelry, like a ring on each hand and an effortless pink-gold diamond necklace, this outfit is the epitome of summer.
Alternatively, you can tap into your romantic side without a dress in sight. A puff-sleeve top in a dreamy pale blue styled with white jeans and less-expected accessories like green sequin sandals, stacked bracelets, and a single earring might just be the summer love story you didn't know you wanted.
Caitie Schlisserman is an L.A.-based executive director with over a decade of branded content and editorial experience. She joined Who What Wear in 2014 as the first branded content editor and has worked her way up to overseeing a team of talented branded content editors and the beauty department of the media revenue team. Before Who What Wear, Caitie helped launch FabFitFun's first subscription box and worked at a beauty startup where she assisted in successfully launching the editorial department.
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