Style Tips For Dressing Your Bits In Summer

Summer is almost here! Warm days, balmy evenings and I imagine some of you are already in panic mode about having your bits on display to the world.

Some of you have spent winter hibernating in the comfort of long boots, leggings, sloppy jumpers and some time soon, those layers are going to need to come off.

Summer dressing needn’t be much different, like winter, you should strive for comfort and suitability for your body shape. If you’ve read my book, I do discuss “problem bits” in detail and it really is a change of mindset to overcome the concerns when dressing these areas.

So unless your upper arms are flying in the wind when you’ve stopped saying goodbye – please get over it. If it’s hot and they’re on display, I promise you, no-one is going to care.
Now…to the land of clothes.

I have already tackled two of the most daunting subjects on my blog: swimwear and underwear so be sure to check them out if you’re seeking style assistance in those areas.

In terms of any body insecurities, whether it’s your pale legs, flabby arms or a bulky bottom, here are some ways to make your “problem bits” disappear:

Let’s take the beach for an example. You’ve already chosen a perfect swimwear suit but you’re still not completely body confident to hit the sand. Consider a cover-up. There are so many gorgeous covers and kaftans that can give you that glamorous poolside look.

Here are a few examples across different price points:

However, if you are not keen to spend money on a beach/pool cover over your bathers, what about that gorgeous, ill-fitting shirt with no shape (but it’s pretty and colourful) that you have in your wardrobe and you’ve never worn?

Perfect! However, I’m only giving you permission to wear these types of items to the beach.

If your upper arms concern you and you really, really, really have to cover them up, try looking for a lightweight sheer cardigan or long sleeve lightweight blouse. Sometimes a georgette sleeve can be a lovely option or even a ¾ sleeve.

Onto pale legs…oh the horror!

Nicole Kidman, Cate Blanchett and Gwen Stefani have all embraced their fair skin and don’t exercise the fake tan look.

If that didn’t convince you to walk confidently with pale legs, let’s extend your skirt length: Consider a midi or maxi length skirt or dress. There is also a great selection fishtail maxi’s this season that sees the hem shorter at the front and longer at the back.

Prefer pants? I help many clients to buy knee length shorts as well as 7/8th trousers.

Now this is where you do need to be careful, as all these “longer” options can make you appear shorter unless you’re beautifully tall so I would suggest wearing wedges and platform shoes with these pieces. (Stay tuned for a shoe review on the next blog!)

Additionally, I don’t condemn a fake tan if it’s done properly. It can give you confidence if you have issues with your pale legs or any part of your body, as a tan is known to smooth our skin colour imperfection.

However, avoid orange, streaky or too dark looks. If it’s your first time, perhaps head to a reputable salon before you try a DIY fake tan, unless it’s easily removable.

So many of my clients don’t like showing their legs, refuse to wear skirts and dresses in summer and I think it’s such a shame.

Firstly, skirts and dresses are a much cooler alternative to leggings and trousers and there is something lovely about a woman sporting a chic summer dress.

Finally, sun cover. I’ve asked you to put your legs and arms on display but it should always be combined with UV protection and one summer accessory I won’t leave home without is a form of sunscreen on my face. They cleverly combine them in moisturisers and make-up these days – handy.

So what do you do to cover up those bits you don’t like in summer? Chat with me below!

Love Cindy x