Just how seasons mark a good time to clean out the build-up of junk in your home (hello spring cleaning), they’re also a perfect opportunity to update your wardrobe. By adding just a few key pieces each change in seasons, you can keep your closet on trend without breaking the bank. So, now that summer is almost here, it’s time to get shopping. But what pieces should you be eyeing to ensure you’re staying on trend and enhancing the items already in your closet? We tapped U.S. Polo Assn. stylist Gabriela Ascunce to learn what’s hot this spring and summer. It’s her job to analyze the fashion industry each season and determine what trends will dominate. And this year is looking like it’s about ease and comfort (hooray!).
So, with that in mind, here are some tips to refresh your wardrobe this summer.
Pair New Patterns with Your Wardrobe Staples
Skip the neutral tones this summer because this year is all about making a statement with patterns.“Pastel stripes and resort florals will be a great addition to this season’s wardrobe,” said Ascunce. “Adding a pattern to your style and pairing it with khaki or white bottoms will effortlessly freshen the entire outfit for summer.”
Patterns you should expect to see on the streets this summer include palm prints, bright and pastel Oxford stripes, Madras plaids, Gingham, vintage florals, and chain prints. “Investing in a pattern is a great start to quickly spruce your style because they are easily paired with a neutral bottom, which most people have already,” added Ascunce.
Add a Shirt Dress to Hop on the Summer Trend (But Keep it Forever)
“Shirt Dresses are a great piece to add to any wardrobe during the warmer seasons because on a hot day it’s great for breathability and versatility,”
SAID ASCUNCE.
As far as how to style a shirt dress, Ascunce suggests styling it with a cute tote bag and sunglasses that can be swapped to change up your look. Even with one piece, the possibilities are endless. “This classic wardrobe piece can be styled for work, errands, or lunch with friends,” she said.
Comfortable Athleisure Wear Fabrics Are In
“Looking into the industry, relaxed fits and athleisure will remain a prominent style, and for a good reason,” said Ascunce. “With hybrid schedules and working from home becoming the norm, oversized shirts and wide-leg bottoms merge comfort and professionalism for a trend that is here to stay.” Think of breathable cotton dress garment-washed fabrics (which soften the materials and help avoid shrinking after washing).
Plus, that shirt dress comes back into play here as it’s a classic wardrobe piece that can be styled for work, errands, or lunch with friends and it’s comfortable. Another comfortable piece to consider is a pair of drawstring chinos. You can pair them with a classic polo for a great summer style. “The comfortable and breezy fabrics will keep you cool and stylish during the hot summer days,” added Ascunce.
Overall, comfort is key this summer, which is certainly music to our ears. And with a few new pieces you can update your wardrobe while keeping the basics classic and comfy.
