April Goodard

It is finally May, and I could not be more excited that summer is on the way. While we have all been reaping the benefits of the warm spring weather (t-shirts, sandals, and light-washed denim among other things), I think that it is high time that we start looking towards the even warmer days of bathing suits, tank tops, and shorts. 

Speaking of, warmer weather often calls for more lax, and often times more simple, attire (shorts and a t-shirt anyone?). While this can feel somewhat drab and ordinary, who can be bothered to wear excess layers when it’s 85 degrees and sunny out? One way that you can forego a completely sub-par outfit is to dress it up with your accessories. Like what you’re hearing? Read on to discover four ways that you can dress up your summer wardrobe!

Printed Sandals: Printed sandals can be a super fun way to dress things up! You can pick any pretty print to dress up an otherwise basic outfit. If you really want to step up your overall look, you can pick your favorite designer’s monogram sandals (everyone is coming out with them in fun colors) to really make a statement. 

Gold Statement Earrings: You know those big, gold, gaudy earrings that you may have seen on the elderly in the 1980’s? Well, they are back and better than ever with a new twist. Gold statement earrings can step up any outfit’s game by acting as the focal point of otherwise plain attire. But be cautioned: sometimes less is more and when you are wearing a statement piece like flashy gold earrings. You want to keep other accessories to a minimum or forgo them altogether.

Layered Jewelry: If you are going for smaller, dainty jewelry of any kind, you can most definitely wear more than one piece (unlike our statement earrings above). But remember, moderation is always key – a.k.a going overboard is still a small possibility even if you are going for a layered look. Try pairing layered necklaces with stackable rings, or likewise try layering bracelets with more dainty pearl or neutral stud earrings. Remember more is not always better! Mixing silver and gold pieces is okay, but make sure that you have an equal distribution of both colors: this way you can avoid one looking out of place over the other.

Friendship Bracelets: While we are on the topic of jewelry, why don’t we shed some light on the 90’s-esque friendship bracelet trend that is having a serious moment right now. This is a total blast from the past in accessories. These yarn-knit bracelets come in a variety of patterns and colors, and loads of designers have been picking up and adopting the trend into their individual houses. They scream summer, and add a real visual appeal to any outfit with a hint of nostalgia.