Now that spring semester is finally a faint memory in the back of our minds, there’s time to focus on the more important things in life—i.e. having the perfect outfit for every occasion this season. However, as temperatures rise, the time and headspace to throw an Insta-worthy #OOTD together becomes increasingly limited. How does one avoid falling into the denim-cutoffs-and-white-tee-cycle every morning?
Enter prints: one of the easiest ways to spice up any beach trip, brunch date, or Netflix binge ‘fit. After scouring the ‘grams of our most stylish Community Members, I’ve come up with six no-fail formulas to incorporate your favorite prints into every summer adventure. So read on, take notes, and get ready to amp up your summer print game in no time.
Layer a Gingham Bustier Over a Tee For an Easy Update
Nothing quite says summer like a heavy dose of gingham, but how do we make this popular print stand out from the pack? Layer a gingham bustier over your staple white tee for an instant dose of cool-girl vibes, while keeping the rest of look simple and effortless.
Get This Look: Pixie Market Gingham Ruffled Bustier Top ($79); NA-KD Tee (15); Free People Mom Jean ($78); Topshop Loafer Mule ($80)
Update Your Go-To Denim With Bold Stripes and a Lace-Up Top
Stand out from a sea of mom jeans by reaching for a fresher, candy-striped alternative. Look infinitely cool (with minimal effort) by throwing a structured tank over striped denim, topped with some classic summer sunnies.
Get This Look: I.N.C. Striped Skinny Jeans ($32); Forever 21 Lace-Up Ribbed Cropped Tank Top ($9); Ray-Ban Round Metal Sunglasses ($153)
Play Up The Polka-Dot Trend in A Bright Orange Dress
Polka dots are quickly becoming this summer’s closet essential, and what’s not to love? A sunshine-yellow mini dress splashed with this nostalgic print can take you from brunch to bonfire. Score serious bonus points with an on-trend basket bag and fresh white sandals.
Get This Look: Nasty Gal Polka Dot Dress ($60); Topshop Straw Basket Bag ($20); Josie Perforated Platform Sandal ($70)
Channel Your Inner Street Style Star With Camo Pants And a Cropped Cami
Although camo pants have been rapidly gaining attention over the last few months, take this streetwear staple to new heights with the help of some not-so-basic basics. A cropped cami and classic sneakers keep you comfy through a day’s worth of adventures while expertly layered gold necklaces prove your street style smarts.
Get This Look: Urban Outfitters Camo Surplus Pants ($69); Vans Old Skool Sneakers ($60); Express Square Neck Cami ($20); Boohoo Layered Necklace ($10)
Refresh Your Plaid Blazer With Crisp Summer Whites
Not quite ready to let go of your favorite plaid blazer? Give this fall essential a summer twist by throwing it on top of an all-white look, which will keep you cool while freshening up your Insta feed.
Get This Look: Nasty Gal Plaid Blazer ($69); ASOS White High Waist Mom Jeans ($64); Adidas Stan Smith Sneakers ($56)
Ditch Your Leopard Coat For Similarly-Printed Trousers
Remember when massively oversized, irresistibly fuzzy leopard fur coats were dominating your feed? Carry the feisty print into summer without compromising your Cheetah Girl status with statement-making trousers. Keep the rest of the look simple with a crisp white button-down, massive sunnies, and minimal jewelry.
Get This Look: Nasty Gal Leopard Pants ($30); Poplin Lace-Up Blouse ($25); H&M Sunglasses ($10)
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Opening image by Flower Direnna.
