I have pale skin that does actually change colour when exposed to the sun. It burns easily when unprotected, but turns a light shade of brown once the red has faded. I’m completely untanned because I wear sunblock and do not go on beach or pool vacations. This usually makes tan lines a non-issue.

But an unusually sunny and warm Spring in Seattle has left its mark. Although I don’t actively seek it out, I’m often in the sun because I walk our dogs and dash about outside every day. As a result I’ve developed an odd tan line across the top of my feet from wearing pumps and ballet flats. Hilarious. It’s not going to fade any time soon either because I’ll be sporting this type of shoe frequently until the end of September.

Oh well. I’m more than happy to sport two-toned feet if it means we get to keep our magnificent weather. I’ve also provided amusement when I take my shoes off in other people’s homes. It is what it is. Have you acquired any strange tan lines lately?

I’m all for an updated, refreshed and modern take on 80’s influenced fashions but I draw the line at anything neon. I sported enough neon clothing, footwear and jewelry as a teen in 1983 to last me a lifetime. So this is not a trend I’m revisiting. As much as I adore saturated bright colours, blindingly fluorescent items get my thumbs down because they’re just TOO bright. I can see kids and teens having fun with neon the same way I did, but as an adult, no thank you.

Shoes that are a similar colour to your skin do wonders for elongating your legs when you’re wearing a skirt or frock. This is because they visually extend the length of the leg right down to the foot without a break. It’s as if your legs magically received ten inches of extra flattering height.

Most flesh-toned shoe styles achieve the leg lengthening effect. Shoes with heels and low vamps are particularly effective but strappy sandals, mary janes, peep-toes, ballet flats and gladiators also work.

Surprisingly, it took me a while to actually like the look of flesh coloured shoes on bare legs because my first impression was: “oh no! I look like I’m not wearing shoes”. But that’s the point, and since the penny dropped I whole heartedly believe it’s a good look.

I prefer a little texture and depth to my flesh-toned peds so I opt for a champagne or pewter shade of metallic that’s close to the colour of my skin instead of flat beige leather. It’s probably not quite as visually effective, but it does the trick.

An assortment of flesh-toned and metallic shoes in different styles. The comfy strappy wedge I bought last week is close to the colour of my skin so it serves as a flesh-toned shoe in my wardrobe. Works for me.

A cool Summer hat is a great way to add a little attitude to your style. Casual, breezy, lightweight and super practical. It’s the perfect way to keep the sun off your face and the hair in place.

The straw fedora is particularly popular this season and I like it too. It’s edgier and more androgynous than the conventional floppy straw hat, which makes for a nice change. It looks sassy paired with just about any relaxed look, both in beach and city settings.

I don’t wear hats unless it’s bitterly cold and a necessity. And although I’ve seen gals with uber short crops pull off headgear with style, I like hats best on lasses with longer hair. It’s almost necessary for hair to peek through from underneath the hat to do the look justice. Either way, a hat is a fab idea if you’re looking for a fun and functional Summer accessory that won’t break the bank.

Beige toned straw fedoras are the obvious colour choice, but consider other shades too. Black, grey, cream and white make nice alternatives. Check out forum member Loulou who has her Summer hat look down.