Elevating Outfits When It’s Always Warm Where You Live
I received a lot of questions about how to elevate style when it’s winter but you live in a warm climate like Florida, Texas, and don’t like to layer. So I thought I’d walk you through some simple steps that might help bring some inspiration and some clarity.
Start with a Mood Board
When I’m at a loss for styling anything, I almost always turn to moodboarding to build up some visual interest. I typically start with some form of “vacation style” because that usually draws in ideas for warm weather (even when it’s winter, this can still apply). I’m pulling a few images and breaking them down so you can see my thought process and the elements that go into putting together an elevated outfit when it’s warm outside.
Consider these core elements of elevating an outfit
Play with Texture
Adding texture to an outfit is the first step to making it elevated without having to add a layer. Here the ties on the shirt, the knit of the fabric, the straw texture of the tote, the mesh on the shoe, these are all ways to add texture.
Play with Colors
Color is another way to play with elevating an outfit, especially when it’s hot outside. If layering isn’t an option, then add a strong pop of color (here it’s the shoe and the bag) really help to tell a story. Then notice the green in the sunnies? That’s also a pop of color which creates interest.
Play with Prints
Another way to elevate without layers is the use of prints. Playing with a large scale (floral pants) print vs. a small scale (stripes) print with one similar color in common, creates visual interest and makes an outfit look elevated.
Play with Accessories
If where you live is warm most of the time, accessories should be your secret weapon (if you don’t like using layers to elevate). A great bag, a cool necklace (or layered necklaces), a belt, a few earrings, rings, can do WONDERS for an outfit. It can take something simple and give it that POP it needs.
Play with Fabrics
Comfort is key when it’s warm outside, so gravitating towards natural fabrics like hemp, linen, and cotton will help keep you cool. You may have to invest in a steamer to keep your fabrics looking good but with any natural fiber, wrinkling is part of the vibe, and makes the piece looked lived in. Think about pairing it with something more crisp or fitted that will help to offset the feeling of sloppiness.
Play with Proportions
Another key element to elevating outfits is playing with proportions. Here is an example of a fitted tank, a slightly looser short paired with a flowy button down, unbuttoned. From tight to oversized, all proportions are present and it gives the look a sophisticated yet relaxed vibe. Try playing with proportions which will help keep the look interesting. Here’s a video that shares a little bit more about proportions.
Where to focus your wardrobe
If it were hot a majority of the time where I live, I would invest in easy pieces that I could throw on in a pinch. Things like, jumpsuits, dresses, and rompers. Having a handful of go-to’s there. Then I would zero in on a few basic separates I love. If I love shorts in the summer, than in the winter if it’s still warm, I’d try to replicate the shorts idea in an easy pull on pant, chino, or linen option. Then I’d figure out a few outfit formulas to pull in a moments notice: a printed tank with a loose linen pant and sandals or a fitted ribbed tank with a pleated short and flats. These “prep-ahead-of-time” plans will have you feeling much more prepared for dressing in a different season, when it’s still warm outside.