5 Summer Must-Have Wardrobe Pieces

I’m thrilled my fashionista friend Jo-Lynne Shane from Musings of a Housewife  is here today sharing her 5 Must-Have Wardrobe pieces for summer.  She’s a guru to so many of us– you know the type, she walks into a room and we ask her head to toe what she’s wearing and where she got it– and fashion is just one of her many strengths.  You’re going to love her suggestions for what’s in style this summer, and how to make it work for you.  If you had to buy just 5 pieces for summer, what would they be?  Let Jo-Lynne show you the way!

I’m so excited to be guest posting on Making Lemonade today as a part of Carrie’s Guide to Summer series! I’ve known Carrie for a few years through our Philly Social Media Moms networking organization, and she is a lovely person both inside and out. I love her mission here at Making Lemonade and the positive force she is in the blogging community.

Today we’re going to talk about my favorite topic — fashion! I typically write a couple of fashion posts a week at my personal blog, but I don’t necessarily consider myself an expert. At 40-years-old, I’m still trying to figure out what styles work for me and how to incorporate current trends into my personal style aesthetic — which can pretty much be described as “suburban housewife”. Hopefully my musings on fashion will help other moms who are in the same boat, trying to stay fabulous while raising kids and juggling work, home and family.

I enjoy following the trends and obsessively watch for InStyle Magazine and People Style Watch to land in my mailbox each month, but I don’t recommend trying out every trend that comes down the pike. I think having great style means knowing what works for you and what doesn’t, and learning how to incorporate current trends into your everyday wardrobe in a way that works for you. So please keep that in mind as we discuss must-have wardrobe pieces this season. Just because I say it’s a “must-have” piece doesn’t necessarily mean you need it, but it is something to consider adding to your closet.

So without anymore preamble (did Carrie warn you? I tend to be a bit wordy…) here is a list of 5 summer must-have wardrobe pieces for your consideration this season!

5 Summer Must-Have Wardrobe Pieces

1. Stripes

Not everyone is excited about wearing stripes, but everyone can incorporate stripes into their wardrobe if they want to. Personally, I love wearing stripes, and they won’t necessarily add 10 pounds if you follow a few basic rules of thumb. Typically, thinner stripes are more flattering than wider stripes, and if you’re concerned about the placement of horizontal stripes, go for a mixed stripe pattern or chevron stripes. These striped dresses all work for various reasons.

Striped Crossover Blouson Dress, Sleeveless Striped Sheath, Chevron Stripe Knit Maxi Dress, Club Stripe Shift Dress

A striped skirt can be fun too. Not too long ago I wrote a post on three ways to wear a striped skirt.

Or may I suggest a striped accessory?

Okay, enough about stripes! Clearly I have an obsession. Ahem.

2. Pastel Jeans or Pants

Pastels are hot this season, especially pastel jeans and capris. This is a trend that almost everyone can pull off, even if pastels aren’t your best color. Because I have dark hair and light skin, I tend to shy away from pastels, but they are fine when worn on the bottom. Then I can pair them with a bright top, or even black or white — colors that all look good next to my face. Definitely give some consideration to incorporating a pair of pastel colored pants/jeans/shorts into your wardrobe this season.

3. Clutch

The clutch is back, and it’s better than ever because some are quite large and hold quite a lot. I still rely on my roomy tote for everyday use, but I love having a few pretty clutch bags to choose from when I’m going out at night or to lunch without the kids. Don’t assume that your handbag doesn’t matter. Even if you’re not up to reinventing your entire wardrobe, a few key updates such as handbag and shoes can go a long ways towards updating your look. Treat yourself to a sassy, compact clutch and carry it whenever you’re going out and don’t need to bring along the kitchen sink. The more colorful, the better! Here are some great picks.

Big Buddha Asher, Hobo Zara, Hobo Sydney, Banana Republic Michelle Clutch

4. Peplum

Yes, what’s old is new again. The peplum is a trend I can get behind. I love how ladylike and shapely it is. It’s especially helpful for those of us without much of a natural waist. A peplum top pairs nicely with a skirt or a pair of pants and allows you to mix and match, or you can go the traditional route with a peplum dress.

Banana Republic Ponte Knit Peplum Top, Robbi & Nikki Stripe Peplum Top, Karen Kane Studded Peplum Dress, Ann Taylor Asymmetrical Peplum Dress

5. Flats and Low Heels

Hooray for wearable trends! Flats have been in vogue for a while, but the low heel is returning too. I say, “Welcome home, honey!” These low heels are so much more practical for the average woman than towering wedge sandals and spiky stilettos, but they still give you some added height and confidence. Here are a few examples to whet your appetite.

So there you have it — my top 5 must-have wardrobe items for summer. Which ones are on your list?

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