Spring 2020 might have been shot down a little by the coronavirus pandemic but summer is officially upon us, and what better way to shake off those lockdown blues than indulging in a brand new summer wardrobe? But what hot summer trends are lighting up the aisles up and down the country this year and could the bright colors and soft fabrics help improve your mood post-lockdown?

Shoulder bags – Summer 2020 is going to be all about day trips. Because, with COVID-19 still very much a problem, very few of us are going to be holidaying abroad or even in another State. Luxury shoulder bags are the perfect accessory for a day in the park or a trip to your local restaurant.

Open-toe shoes – While going open-toe means you’ll probably want to spend some time making sure your nails are looking as good on your feet as they are on your fingers,  it’s a perfect way to give your feet a little more access to the summer breeze. Because nothing is quite as uncomfortable as hot feet!

Color co-ordination – Summer is all about bright, bold colors, contrasted with light shades and tones. Bright colors will not only brighten up your outfit but could also brighten up your mood and detract from the paranoia and negativity that seems to have gripped the country lately. Experiment with deeper bright colors like mint green or scarlet red to accentuate the vibrancy and flavor of the season.

Overshirt – Whether you’re looking for something to throw over your swimsuit on your way to the beach or something bold and colorful to accentuate (or hide) your lockdown curves, an oversized overskirt is the perfect flexible summer outfit finisher. It can even be tied into a crop top at the waistline if the mood takes you.

Light layers – Just because it’s hot that doesn’t mean you can’t experiment with layers. Experiment with sheer fabrics such as silk and use them as a final layer on top of an outfit that might otherwise be seen as a little too ‘revealing’. Light layers (or ‘sheer tops’) can be used to hide or to accentuate and are light, affordable and have a definite 60s ‘hippy’ appeal to them.

Cotton dress – A classic summer garment that will never go out of style, the white cotton dress is always going to feel and look incredible on a warm July evening. They are also incredibly cheap and can be found at most thrift stores and supermarkets for a fraction of the price you’d pay at big-name boutiques. This is one top summer trend that will probably still be around next year too!

Photo by Tamara Bellis on Unsplash

There are a few things every girl needs in her wardrobe. Whether you use these key pieces on a regular basis or not, knowing they are there and being able to reach for them when you really need it gives you piece of mind and saves you from any frantic shopping trips. It is essential to get some investment pieces that are worth spending a bit more on to ensure they last for years to come, especially for these iconic pieces that won’t go out of style.

Here are some of the iconic pieces you need in your wardrobe:

A Leather Handbag

A leather handbag that suits your style and the rest of your wardrobe is a piece you will constantly reach for. A good quality one will be able to withstand consistent use, last you longer, and probably even be in good enough shape for you to be able to pass down. When considering which handbag to invest in, focus on quality and on a timeless style and color. Online there are many websites where you can find gorgeous and high-quality pieces, like for example the Italian purses by Mirta, all crafted by local artisans. 

A White T-Shirt

A white t-shirt can be dressed up or down, and when you have a quality tee it fits you perfectly and retain its shape between washes. Rather than having to replace your white t-shirts over and over, find a couple different cuts in a higher quality fabric or make so they last you longer and for a better fit. 

A Well-Fitting Pair of Jeans

There is nothing like a pair of jeans that fits you perfectly. It gives you a confidence boost when you put on a good pair of jeans and you’ll find yourself reaching for them over pairs that don’t fit quite so right. Opt for a standard wash and fit rather than a trendy pair that may go out of style in a season or two for that investment pair of jeans. 

Stilettos

A good pair of stilettos is an iconic piece to have in your wardrobe, even if you don’t wear heels on a consistent basis. You want to find a pair that fits your foot well, is comfortable, that you can walk in, and that will hold up over time. This means that when you do have an event you want a pair of stilettos for, you know which pair you can reach for and feel confident and comfortable in. 

A Pair of Hoops or Diamond Earrings

Accessories can really pull an outfit together. A timeless piece such as a pair of hoops or diamond earrings can elevate any outfit and be one you reach for special occasions or even on a consistent basis. A quality and iconic pair of earrings will last you years to come and is another piece that you can pass on with it still being in great condition. 

These pieces will never go out of style and you’ll have them for years and years to come.