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Beating the Heat : Style Ideas for Summer Fashion

Updated on March 20, 2012

With record-breaking temperatures smothering the entire southern United States, wardrobe creativity is a must for this year's fashion. It's not always easy to find a stylish outfit that looks great whether you're heading to work or hitting the dock. Here are a few ideas to help you make it through the sweltering temps.

Breezy Fabrics

If you're going to be outside for any length of time, there is a good chance you'll start to sweat. Stay away from silk blouses that cling to glistening skin, or thick shirts that trap body heat. Pick a loose-fitting shirt that moves in the wind, or a sleeveless shirt.. Don't forget to balance the voluminous top with a fitted bottom to build a flattering outfit.

Breezy animal print shell tank from Ann Taylor Loft.
Breezy animal print shell tank from Ann Taylor Loft.
Simple white summer tee.
Simple white summer tee.
Striped summer shirts give off a nautical vibe.
Striped summer shirts give off a nautical vibe.
Bold colors are a hot look for summer wear.
Bold colors are a hot look for summer wear.
Printed tops add texture to your look.
Printed tops add texture to your look.
Nothing blocks heat like a white tee!
Nothing blocks heat like a white tee!
Wedges add height while keeping your feet cool.
Wedges add height while keeping your feet cool.
Embellished sandals like these can work to keep an outfit casual or dress them up a notch.
Embellished sandals like these can work to keep an outfit casual or dress them up a notch.

Show Your Toes

They don't call them summer sandals for nothing! Embrace the opportunity to flaunt your pedicure and opt for a shoe that allows air between your piggies. Not only will you be cooler and more comfortable, but your wardrobe will have a casual summer feel. Throw on some cute peep-toe wedges for an adorable look.

Cool Hair

Low, wavy ponytails with a few face-framing wisps create a cool, casual look that makes you seem like you just walked off the beach. Fashion a messy chignon to pull your hair off your neck for a long day at the office. Or, keep cool with the summer's hottest trend in hair: a loose side braid that looks effortless and chic.

Lea Michelle (Star of Fox's hit show Glee) rocks a wavy ponytail.
Lea Michelle (Star of Fox's hit show Glee) rocks a wavy ponytail.
Messy chingons can work with both business and casual outfits and do wonders for keeping your neck cool.
Messy chingons can work with both business and casual outfits and do wonders for keeping your neck cool.
Selena Gomez looks great in a ultra hot side braid.
Selena Gomez looks great in a ultra hot side braid.

Accessorize

Think beyond jewelry and belts when looking for summer accessories. Grab a fun umbrella for a day strolling the park and you'll always be in the shade. If you're a multi-tasker and need the use of both hands, pick up a brimmed hat to keep frizz at bay and the sun off your face. Either one will show you're smart enough to plan ahead and will keep you cool.

Hats with vents help keep you shaded in cool on a sunny day. Find a neutral color for frequent wear.
Hats with vents help keep you shaded in cool on a sunny day. Find a neutral color for frequent wear.
Summer umbrellas can be classy and fun.
Summer umbrellas can be classy and fun.
So cute vintage summer umbrellas.
So cute vintage summer umbrellas.

Break Out the Dresses

There is no reason to only wear summer dresses for wedding and soirées. They're a great way to stay in a more formal attire for the workplace, while remaining breezy and cool. Unless of course, your favorite is strapless, a halter, or comes too high above the knee, in which case it would probably be better worn in attendance of your next garden party than Monday morning meeting.

Flaunt your summer body with a chic dress for work or play.
Flaunt your summer body with a chic dress for work or play.
Pleated dresses help add movement for summer time heat.
Pleated dresses help add movement for summer time heat.

What is your favorite summer wardrobe piece?

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