When the heat turns up in the summer, the next best thing besides going commando is to put on your cutest pair of shorts. Unfortunately, shorts are not versatile pieces of garments that will look good on every body shape. Those who have been blessed in the height department might not feel so great when they find out how almost every pair of shorts expose their butt cheeks to the world. Meanwhile, curvy or plus-sized gals might not feel too comfortable showing their legs off (although we don’t think this should be the case — as they say, if you’ve got it, flaunt it!).
What other options are there then if you are not keen on wearing shorts for the entire summer? Luckily, there is a variety of alternatives available you can include in your summer wardrobe, from culottes to jumpsuits. If you are in need of style inspiration, check out our guide below for a perfectly cool and stylish summer sans shorts.
Culottes
If you love the look of a pair of wide-leg pants but don’t feel like donning full-length ones for the summer, then culottes are the perfect alternative. Usually falling about a third of the way on your calves, culottes are possibly the next best thing after wearing shorts in the summer. Their longer length means they will keep you more secure compared to shorts, while their loose and flowy fabric will still keep you cool in the heat.
Wear them with either a short-sleeved or sleeveless blouse tucked in and add a thin belt to accessorise your outfit. This look would be great for the office too if you are looking for an alternative to shirt dresses or work trousers. Throw on a fitted blazer for a more professional appearance or a cardigan when it gets chilly in the office. If you prefer a more casual look, opt for a billowy crop top and complete the outfit with a pair of sandals.
Palazzo Pants
If you like the loose fit of culottes but want something in a longer length, consider opting for palazzo pants instead. The flowy fabric of these wide-leg pants will ensure you still stay cool in the summer heat. These pants tend to look pretty casual though, so you might want to keep them aside for the weekend or when you will be going on a trip.
For a super-chill look that will make you look effortlessly stylish, wear a t-shirt tucked into your pants and complete the outfit with a pair of sandals. If you are on a summer holiday, amp up your easy-breezy outfit with a wide-brimmed hat and a small crossbody bag.
Another great thing about palazzo pants? Their full-length means you can elongate your figure and make you appear slimmer with some proper styling — a particularly good tip if you have a petite frame. Do this simply by putting on a pair of platforms or chunky heel and your legs will look like they go on for days (just make sure the pants are long enough to cover your heels).
Maxi Dresses
Wearing a full-length dress might seem like the last thing you want to do during the summer but with the right kind of dress, you don’t have to worry about burning up in the sweltering heat. When looking for maxi dresses, opt for those made of lighter fabrics such as chiffon or linen. These fabrics are lightweight enough that they will keep you cool under the sun and the loose material will also allow air to circulate through the dress, so you don’t have to worry about perspiration dampening your fancy outfit. Plus, ensure you go for maxi dresses that are in a loose fit so your skin has a chance to breathe.
When it comes to styling a maxi dress, you do not have to go too elaborate as the dress itself will hold most of the attention in your outfit. If your dress has a simple neckline, accessorise with a necklace or two and put on a pair of earrings in a minimal design. Or stack bracelets in different designs for a bohemian vibe.
Midi Skirts
If you are in the mood for a more feminine vibe in your outfit, how about opting for a midi skirt? From pencil skirts to flowy ones, there are many styles you can choose from depending on the kind of outfit you are looking to put together.
Looking for a midi skirt for the office? Go for a pencil skirt that tapers towards the ankles. Wear it with a shirt tucked in, throw a blazer on and top off your outfit with a pair of high heels for a professional look. If you are heading for a night out in town, pair your pencil skirt with a fancy top and put on a pair of kitten heels.
Loose and flowy midi skirts are great for a day at the beach or when you are hanging out with your pals at brunch. Go with a striped tee, pleated midi skirt and a pair of sandals or flats and you will have yourself a winning outfit that will keep you cool during the daytime.