When the sweltering summer heat sets itself upon us, it’s not easy getting dressed past the tried-and-true tank and shorts combo. After all, layering on accessories when we’re trying to strip our layers down doesn’t sound so appealing. But when it’s the same outfit day in and day out, how’s a fashionista to stay stylish? Here are five ways to amp up your summer tank, tee and shorts look!
The Everyday Tank
Go ahead, grab that tank and pair it with your denim shorts. It’s an easy outfit to default to, so don’t be afraid to start there! It’s what’s underneath that counts in this look — pick a fun lace bandeau to wear under a sheer white tank to add a pop of color to the ensemble. To accentuate the drape-y look of the tank, throw on a long chain necklace — a small touch can go a long way.
Cheap Monday Mercedes Tank, $22, Weekday.com
Denim Shorts, $19.95, H&M
Free People ‘Galloon Lace’ Bandeau, $38, Nordstrom
La Coco Gold Pearl Strand, $29, Stella & Dot
Madden Girl ‘Surrge’ Sandal, $39.95, Zappos.com
The Plain White Tee
A cropped cut makes your plain white tee not-so-plain — if you put it together with the right items. Aim for a vintage vibe with a pair of floral denim shorts to create a whimsical look. Skip your summer sandals and slip on a pair of patent leather oxfords to look super sophisticated, and top the look off with a locket that helps to break up the vast white of the shirt.
Off-the-Shoulder Tee, $24.50, Victoria’s Secret
Halfday Shorts in Midsummer, $30, Weekday.com
Patent Leather Blucher, $49.90, Zara
Locket Me Now Necklace, $17.99, ModCloth.com
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The Color Story
Give the bright summer sun a run for its money with a colorful look that’s sure to turn heads. A pair of pale green high-waisted denim shorts features all of this season’s hottest trends: colored denim, pastel shades, mint green (dare I say, the new it-color?) and a high-cut waist. Color-block the shorts with your favorite color, throw in a neon bag, and round all the colors of the rainbow together in a pair of funky wedges for the ultimate summer-ready outfit.
High Waisted Denim Shorts, $43.50, Asos.com
Amelia Blouse, $40, Weekday.com
Neon Straw Beach Tote, $28.50, Charlotte Russe
Statement of Purpose Wedge, $37.99, ModCloth.com
An Unlikely Pair
Who says you can’t wear winter textures during the warmer months? While a heavy suede isn’t the most practical of summer fabrics, it’s perfectly acceptable in a pair of shorts (just skip the jacket or leather pants). A scalloped edge pair can be dressed up or down, even with a basic white tank. Try the look with a front tuck — tuck just the front of your top into the waist of the shorts — and stay with a neutral palette in the sandals (though that gold hardware makes the pair super chic!). Throw in some color in a cross body bag, and you’re ready to go.
Carmel Woods Faux Suede Shorts, $29.99, shopruche.com
COPE Sleeveless Button-Down Tank, $39, Urban Outfitters
Sandals, $34.95, H&M
Xhilaration Orange Neon Pearl Top Handle Handbag, $20, Target
The Shorts You Don’t Know How To Wear
Two summers ago, you picked up an amazing pair of shorts at a vintage shop and you still have yet to wear them since you haven’t been able to find anything to match. This time, go against the grind and don’t be afraid to let patterns clash! Wear your standout printed shorts with a just-as-standout bralette tank. Go all-out glam with a pair of gold slip-on flats and wrap the look up with a set of black leather and metallic-accented wrap bracelets.
Glamorous Scarf Print Shorts, $38.30, Asos.com
Scarf Print Zip Bralette, $36, Topshop
Wanted Ritzy Flat, $19.95, DSW
Clover Wrap Leather Bracelet, $39, Stella & Dot
What are your favorite tips and tricks to take your tank and tee look from Plain Jane to Sartorial Sally?