I like to wear simple clothing most of the time, with a little twist. As Florida summer is about eight months long, I do spend some time and resources on choosing the best, most comfortable, and versatile summer basics. With a twist.
All my summer basics have to be washable, and not need ironing. (I don’t own an iron; even my linen pieces are washed in cold water, dried on low for a few minutes, then shaken out.) I prefer neutral colors on the lighter end of the palette, but include a bit of navy and black. They have a modern silhouette but – most crucial – I don’t like anything to grab my body. Grazing is what we’re going for here; the average temp will be over 90, and humidity at about 110%.
The formulas that work best for me are: linen or cotton tanks, plus a lightweight knee-length-ish skirt, linen trousers, loose knit dresses, and sandals with a little funk. You know I shop the thrift stores (understatement!) but also will buy new when something sparks joy. In particular, I love Eileen Fisher, Comptoirs des Cotonniers, some J. Crew, Everlane, Modcloth, and Trina Turk.
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A couple of these loose and lightweight tanks (this one from Eileen Fisher) will get me through. I hand-wash the light colored ones to keep them from getting muddy in the machine.
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I’m loving the look of these wrapped-front trousers, although I prefer a lighter color. They look fresh and fun to wear.
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Why not pale blue? These are fab, and I also have classic brown sandals in a sim style. Let the pedicures begin.
![_11802589](https://i0.wp.com/notdeadyetstyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/11802589.jpg?resize=500%2C600)
A small cross-body bag is lovely in the warm weather. This leather one comes in this pale mint, and hot coral, and classic brown. I just can’t carry my three-volume Stephen King novels in it.
![_11786723](https://i0.wp.com/notdeadyetstyle.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/11786723.jpg?resize=500%2C765)
A wildcard. this long vest will add polish to my casual looks. Great for lunches out or date nights.
What are your summer basics?
Stay fabulous,
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I love the Halogen vest. That is perfect for Wisconsin where we may only have three months of summer but it can be very hot and humid – so when you go inside you are naturally chilled.
I’ve been contemplating a long vest…I’m a bit shy of things that don’t button, but this white one is perfect for rummer layering. I may yet be swayed!
Patti, that lovely bag would accommodate a Nook or Kindle just fine.
Summer basics in the good old UK? Thermal undies, fake fur coats, fingerless gloves, wellies and sheepskin hats – our weather rarely changes and I’ve worn the same dresses for years and years!
I want to see lots of photos of you in the sunshine in sandals and vests sipping iced alcoholic drinks so i can live vicariously through you! xxx
I definitely love the idea of the long vests!! I find that I always need a sweater or jacket when we go inside anyplace—the air conditioning chills me to the bone!!
jodie
http://www.jtouchofstyle.com