Is it just me or does everyone else in the entire land, come summer, reinvent themselves and pick a whole new summer outfit? Just me? Anyway, this is absolutely not a process that I take lightly at ALL. It’s also not a process that really fits in with any conventional ‘how to pick an outfit’ guide. This is about fun. It’s about creativity. And it’s as close to Madonna (aka continually reinventing myself) that I will ever get. When I’m looking at picking a new summer outfit, it all starts with an idea – a character and a backbone with heart. So I have come up with some (slightly unconventional) tips and tricks for choosing your summer #vibe as we step out into the open air once again and celebrate long days and hot nights.
Choose a character
You might all think I’m crazy but I can absolutely guarantee you that this will help you in more ways than one. It will absolutely reignite your creativity – you know the thing you probably kept hidden during lockdown – and will help give foundational clarity to your new lewk. For me? I’m going with 90s New York – first year out of college, with limited funds, more than one favourite bar and weekends spent with a conscientious re-watching of Space Jam. Specific? Sure. Worth it? Absolutely. Having a character and a persona helps give my outfit a little bit of personal cred too. I back my new outfit and style because to me, it’s based on something (sorta) real. It also takes away the pressure of trying to decide what I want. Because it feels fun and fresh and like something I’m just trying out for the warmer months.
Shop local
When deciding on a new look, another thing you should consider is the where., As in, where-the-heck should I buy this new outfit? My hottest of hot tips? Shop local and shop small! Here in Newcastle for example, we’re super lucky to have so many great offerings right here on our doorstep. Think Ramjet, Long Clothing Co, Abicus, The Lair, Cream, and… actually this list is too long to mention. But no matter wherever you are in the world, there’s a small brand out there, making rad , locally made, locally designed stuff that’s perfect for summer.
Shop sustainably
Speaking of the where, it’s a great time to also think about the why. The good news? So many stores, brands, and outlets are jumping on board the sustainability train in the absolute best way possible. Your favourite brands and styles are all moving towards sustainable fashion. Because the thing is… you can still have your new outfit and care for the planet, too. See point two for a great starting point, but mostly, there are so many different stores who are doing their bit for the planet. Take the likes of Will & Bear or Zorali who are kicking absolute goals when it comes to combating fast fashion and going green.
Go with a palette
Back to the overall look, and the whole planning phase. Work with a colour palette. Hang on though, I’m not painting a house here… No you’re not… BUT… you are looking, just as you would be if you were painting a house, for cohesion. If you’re still reading this, I’m sure you’re torn between wondering whether I’m serious or not and jumping on board my weird train of ideas. And when items serve multiple purposes, your new look not only becomes a whole lot more economical, but outfit planning just becomes easier. Because you already know… this goes with that, and this. But also this, and this, and that other thing.
Have an alternate look that matches your partner
If you’re anything like me, you also have a partner who insists on a clash-free zone when it comes to photos for the gram. Sorry, what, this wasn’t even on your mind when it came to picking your outfit this year? Well.. you can thank me later when you’re trying to go to a simple backyard barbeque in your new bright turquoise shirt only to be surrounded by neutral tones and therefore excluded from any insta-worthy photos. I won’t say I told you so. See, I was recently told that my choices simply scream ‘pop of colour here, there and everywhere’. I don’t see a problem but… I also totally get it, and I’ve learned from my mistakes. Because now, I have an alternative ready to go for joint ventures. Cocktails by the water together at an insta-worthy spot? Check. Summer wedding on the lawn? Also check. You see where I’m going here.
So there you have it… my top five (very unconventional) tips for picking your summer outfit. Because you deserve to not only reinvent yourself every once in a while, but also to treat yo self. Have a new lewk you wanna share? Head over to our social pages – we would love to see it!
