We’ve all got a little post winter wanderlust so what better way to look ahead to your travels than with an easy guide to a capsule wardrobe for your spring summer holiday essentials from your Fairy Clothes Mother.
They are not necessarily on-trend pieces but provide a basic foundation for your spring wardrobe. You will need to decide on which pieces to add to your wardrobe depending upon your own lifestyle needs, but these are items you may simply want to consider.
You can use this summer checklist to build a strong foundation of timeless pieces that can be paired with so much already in your wardrobe creating lots of outfits. I’ve selected my top 8 pieces that will get you
through every rendezvous, cocktail hour and beach trip! When the summer arrives, make sure you’re ready with these can’t live without essentials:
GOOD QUALITY BLACK & WHITE T-SHIRT
This probably goes without saying but investing in a few quality t-shirts that you can wear alone with jeans, shorts or with a great accessory or layer under your jackets is crucial. I personally prefer a V or scoop neck line as it is always more flattering than a crew or boat neck style.
My favourite brands are American Vintage, Alexander Wang, All Saints, LNA, Splendid, Jigsaw and Hush.
WHITE JEANS
Nothing makes a crisp statement more than a pair of white jeans. They
pair well with literally everything from neutrals to pastels to brights. I can’t imagine my summer wardrobe without them! The most important thing is to find a pair that fits well and the material is thick enough that you can’t see through it. I always advise my clients to invest in white jeans as you need the quality. Brands I love are Paige and J Brand.
SUMMER DRESS
Short, midi or Maxi, the decision is yours. Even if you’re not a dress person, summer is definitely the time to showcase the best the shops have to offer. From casual day time, to the beach, to the bar, there’ll be a style
right for the occasion. Much easier to wear then separate pieces, just throw one on with either flat sandals or wedges, a little denim or leather jacket if needed and you’re good to go!
DENIM JACKET
A denim jacket is a great staple to have in your wardrobe all year round but is the perfect layering piece for spring. I love how it looks layered over a dress or skirt to make it look a little more edgy. It also looks great with
a basic white t-shirt and white jeans. They need not cost the earth and can
be picked up for less than £50 in Topshop, Oasis, Warehouse, Zara or H&M.
SUNGLASSES
Because nothing says summer more than a great pair of sunglasses!
They make a fab fashion statement plus they protect your eyes. There are so many different styles, make sure you choose the right frame for your
face shape. If not my top tip would be to go for an aviator style, always on trend and suits many face shapes. Tom Ford, Victoria Beckham and Dior are my go to.
WEDGE SANDALS
If you’re only going to have one pair make it a neutral tone, as they are a fab way to achieve height with comfort and perfect for outdoor events such as weddings, Summer BBQ’s or festivals. Steve Maddens and Jimmy Choo always provide a good choice.
SWIMWEAR
You are never more exposed than when you are on holiday. My ultimate tip for your well-earned and much needed fix of sunshine is to invest in some decent swimwear and flattering cover ups. A wellcut swimsuit can make you look as though you have shed pounds and work wonders
at helping you to look and feel at your best. Be sure to try your swimwear on before you buy, so you know what it looks like on you. If you need to go
up a size compared to what you wear in regular clothing, do not
despair! Swimwear tends to be cut smaller and fit tighter. Panic over.
Your swimwear should flatter your exact body shape and accentuate your positive features as this will naturally detract from the negative areas you don’t like. Most people feel insecure about at least one part of their
body. Those insecurities can definitely amplify when the bathing suit season arrives. We can’t change Mother Nature but we certainly can disguise her!
BEACH BAG
My personal go to is the Louis Vuitton Never Full, perfect for traveling with on the plane which then doubles as a beach bag when you arrive at your destination. I also love the personalised bags from Rae Feather. Chanel offers complete luxury but the thought of destroying it with sand and sun cream scares me!
If all this is still too much for you to take in, you haven’t got the time or even a clue where to start and just want to invest in some professional honest guidance and advice, either for yourself, or a loved one, you know where to find me.
Remember we all need help because looking good doesn’t just happen, and it’s the stylish ones that ask for it!
Denim Jacket £45 River Island, Sunglasses by ArticleOne, Wedge £39
Lipsy, Colourblock Underwired Shaping Halter Swimsuit £60 Figleaves, Summer Dress by Anonyme,
Working as a Buyer and Image Consultant for high street fashion chains as well as high end designers, including Amanda Wakeley, Cleo now runs her own personal styling and shopping service, helping real men and women to take control of their wardrobe.
E: [email protected] W: www.demi-couture.co.uk Facebook: Demi Couture Twitter: @cleolacey Instagram: DemiCoutureStylist
