These outfits were inspired by recent shopping and outfit creation sessions with clients who need extra casual, breezy and comfy outfits for Summer that feature pants, jeans and shorts. The idea is that with the right assortment of casual bottoms and tops, you can mix and match the pieces to create many outfits that do the same job but look sufficiently different to keep things interesting.
Here are the components of the outfits. Choose any colour palette.
Bottoms
Choose four styles of bottom: lightweight cropped pants that taper at the hems, boyfriend jeans cropped shorter or ankle length, denim shorts, and cotton shorts. All styles are ROOMY, which is part of what makes them cool and comfortable. I chose three versatile neutrals, one of which is white, and there is also a bright to mix things up. Choose linen, silk and cotton rich fabrications for extra breathability.
Tops
Three tops to one bottom is a good ratio, which means that you can add up to eight more tops, in addition to the ones I’ve pictured, to create more combinations. Keep the tops fluid or oversized, and choose patterns as well as solids.
Choose at least four different styles of top to keep things interesting: a drapey blouse, a tee in a graphic stripe, a printed knitted top with diagonal sleeves, and a silky shell top or tank top. Choose styles with curved hems or high-low hemlines if you want to wear the tops untucked. Partially tucking tops adds effective structure, and I highly recommend that route with roomy fits.
Footwear
Choose four styles of shoe: A sneaker, a closed shoe like a loafer or ballet flat, and a few pairs of casual sandals. I kept all the colours neutral, but by all means throw in a colour.
Accessories
Choose one casual bag if you don’t like to swap them out throughout the season. I chose a fashionable backpack because it’s fun, comfortable and hands-free. But a small crossbody bag or casual tote are other ways to go. Neutral or colourful, it’s all good.
A casual belt or two are great additions if you partially or fully tuck tops. Choose one in the same colour as the footwear as an easy way to pull the outfit together, but by all means also wear the belt with shoes that don’t match. Add jewellery, watch and eyewear as desired.
