April Goodard

It’s the middle of the summer, and it is HOT. Not just warm, nice, or sunshiny, but HOT. This is the kind of weather that makes you want to throw on shorts and a blah t-shirt and call it a day. Surely, it’s far too hot to make any kind of effort at styling an outfit, isn’t it? Wrong. I know that the mere thought of throwing on some kind of accessory can be somewhat aggravating in the blistering summer heat, but the turned-up temperatures don’t have to mean retiring your sense of style for the season. Read on to find suggestions for reasonable, and most importantly summer-friendly accessories that won’t weigh you down.

The Satchel. The murse. Whatever you want to call it. This unisex piece is a lightweight option to a traditional wallet or tote bag that will help you lighten up by allowing you to be hands-free. Because nothing is more annoying than feeling like you are carrying your life around in your already overstuffed bag in 90 degree heat. No thanks. Instead, reach for a lightweight satchel to carry your essentials. Another alternative to the satchel is to reach for a fanny pack that has a long enough strap to be worn cross body. This will make for an even lighter-weight option.

Gold Jewelry. This is something that I personally reach for year-round. Gold really makes a statement due to its rich, warm tones. Yellow gold compliments a variety of skin tones, and looks fantastic with a tan. Reaching for lighter-weight pieces (a dainty necklace, a small ring, some cute stud earrings) will allow you to add some interest to your attire without feeling overdone or getting too hot.

Cute Sandals. You have to wear shoes everywhere you go anyway, so you might as well make them cute and lightweight as well. Go for a flat or wedged pair of gladiator sandals in a bold or neutral solid color to make that tank and jean shorts outfit look like it was a well-planned look. Alternatively, animal print is back and more on trend than ever, so if you to take a walk on the wild side (no pun intended), adding a printed pair of shoes to otherwise plain attire can really dress up the entire look.

Nail Color. A pop of nail color can be an accessory in and of itself. Take advantage of the time of year by experimenting with bright, flashy colours (particularly if you find yourself frequently dressing in neutral tones). Nails can be a really fun way to accessorize without actually having to put on anything additional. Expert tip: Don’t go go for super long nails and a very aggressively bright color. Instead, pick one, If you are going for super long nails, pick a softer, more neutral-toned colour, and if you are fine with shorter nails, bright is the way to go! This way nothing looks overdone or too much!