When the temperature starts heating up we all know to put away our jeans, uggs and sweatshirts and break out our summer apparel. The jean shorts, dresses, sunglasses and flip flops may seem great to you, but what are the boys in our life thinking when our styles change to accommodate the heat? I polled several college boys from across the country to see what summer styles they just can’t get enough of.
And the winners are (in order of most votes)…
1. The Classic Beauty
Over half the guys I surveyed said they adore the classic style. The classic beauty style is all about vintage jewelry and feminine blouses, skirts, and most importantly, dresses. The key to this look is dressing as delicate and girly as possible, and the boys find it irresistible.
“The classic look is the pure American good girl who doesn’t need flashy jewelry or a low cut top to draw your attention. This look is the best because it allows the natural beauty of the girl wearing it to be the centerpiece and the outfit just accents what she already has. “ Mason Boxer-Capitano, Tulane University
In addition to the majority of the boys choosing this look, nearly all said their favorite thing that a girl wears during the summer is a simple sundress!
Carley Duden, University of Arizona
2. The Beach Bombshell
Whether you are going to the beach or not, dressing like you are turns you into an instant heartthrob. This simple summer look is easily achieved, comfortable, and often a favorite of the guys. Pair cut off jean shorts with a tank or bathing suit top and tunic and you’ve got the look! Accessorize with a couple bangles, an oversized bag and a fedora for a personal touch.
“I love it when girls look like they are about to go hit the beach. Usually not wearing much makeup and looking relaxed, they kind of just give off a ‘This is who I am and I’m comfortable with it’ vibe. They look like they just go with the flow and I think it’s really sexy.” Vince Sciolla, Suffolk University
“The beachy style is cute because the girl looks totally comfortable, laid back and looking to have a good time.” Mike Vulpo, University of Southern California
Be careful though, some boys polled said they disliked this style because sometimes it looks like the girls are just grungy and not trying hard to look good at all. If you are going to rock this style, be sure to put a little effort into it!
Kendal Heavican, University of Oregon
3. The Prep
The preppy look is all about looking clean and put together, and while it wasn’t the first choice of most of the guys, they still found it very charming and appealing. Sweaters, polos, and mid-thigh shorts (not jean) create this look easily. Complete the preppy style with a pair of boat shoes, like Sperry Topsiders.
“I like preppy the most because it is very classy and not too outlandish. It is a simple look that I find really attractive.” Vernon Estes, University of Texas
“I like the preppy look but it just depends on when it’s worn. During a summer day its definitely cute, but I wouldn’t be attracted to a girl wearing a polo and khaki shorts at a party or concert. It can definitely be over worn though; preppy every single day is a little much. Other than that it just looks really classy, and I like that.” Nick Peal, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Most of the guys who said they liked this look the best liked it because of how classy and clean the girls looked. However, a handful of guys did say that it often looks to manly so be sure to wear jewelry and feminine colors to avoid this problem.
Kate Schwartz, Pepperdine University
Sperry Top Siders
www.sperrytopsider.com$70-$120
4. The Bohemian
While this look may have come in fourth place, the boys did seem to love how creative and fun the bohemian style made the girl seem. The key to the bohemian look, “says Chelsea Monroe, a student at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, “is to look effortlessly put together. You don’t want to look like a hot mess but you don’t want to look like you are trying too hard either. Don’t be afraid to mix prints and layer different fabrics.”
“When girls where so many colors and patterns like that, it just shows that they are confident and bold. They just look like they would be exciting.” Trevor Bohne, University of Oregon
“I like the Bohemian style as long as it is kept in moderation. Lots of times there is too many accessories and it just starts to look tacky.” Danny Nouri, University of Texas
Be sure you don’t overdo this look. Boys often find it intimidating and while the key to the Bohemian style is patterns, accessories and layers, you don’t want to go overboard.
Jill Moore, University of Arizona
Fun Fact:When asked what they liked best on girls, almost every single boy said a sundress or jeans/shorts and a tank top or t-shirt. So, when in doubt, keep it casual!
Sources:
Chelsea Monroe, Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising
Kendal Heavican, University of Oregon
Jill Moore, University of Arizona
Kate Schwartz, Pepperdine University
Carley Duden, University of Arizona
Vince Sciolla, Suffolk University
Trevor Bohne, University of Oregon
Nick Pearl, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
Conner Sherline, Southern Methodist University
C.A. Vergari, University of Texas
Samine Joudat, Saddleback College
Jason Locklar, University of Arizona
Mason Boxer, Capitano- Tulane University
Kevin Baradar, UC Riverside
Trevor Bohne, University of Oregon
Zack Wolfenzon, Harvard University
Jake Mitchell, University of Texas
Mike Vulpo- University of Southern California
Nick Berdjis, UC Davis
Vernon Estes, University of Texas
Anthony Marracino, Purchase College
Danny Nouri, University of Texas