Ways to Stay Stylish Without Sacrificing Comfort

The summer months are upon us, and the heat can be intense. Why sweat it out in discomfort? Shed your winter layers and feel good in your skin. Here are some ways to look fabulous and feel comfortable this summer. 

Be kind to your feet. You may not always think about your feet until you stub a toe, but your posture depends on healthy feet being planted on the ground. In summer the temptation to beat the heat and go barefoot can actually lead to injury; not just from stepping on something dangerous (make sure your tetanus booster is current), but from lack of supportive footwear causing aches and pains. Alternatively, consider sandals that incorporate arch support that will allow your feet to coolly breathe while providing orthotic properties.  

What better time of year than summer to go out on the town with your ladies or man? Instead of wearing those heels that hurt your feet for the next two days, try a pair of stylish flats. DSW has a huge selection for you to choose from with a myriad of patterns and designs. For even more comfort, slide a pair of cushioned insoles into the bottom and enjoy the feeling of walking on clouds. You’ll look great and your feet will have never felt better after a fun night out.  

Go with the flow. Wear flowy print dresses that breathe and allow you to lounge in style. Try cinching them with a light belt or a sash at your natural waist to accentuate your figure. If you’re feeling frugal, there are great DIY ideas online when it comes to repurposing secondhand clothes into fun summer wear, like cutting long sleeves into short ones, hemming long skirts, opening up high collared necklines, etc. If dresses aren’t your style, you can always pair a cute top with a fluid maxi skirt, appropriate for both day and night. Look for light colors that won’t absorb as much heat to keep you feeling cool. 

Break out your summer scarves. A summer scarf is versatile, and a nicely neutral color can be matched with many different outfits. A sleeveless top can be nice when it’s hot out but, if you feel exposed, a summer scarf can provide a little extra cover without having to sweat through a cardigan. Plus, when the evening starts to cool off, you have a makeshift shawl to drape around your shoulders! Looking to build your summer scarf collection without spending a dime? An infinity style summer scarf can be made from an old t-shirt — My Blessed Life shares that and nine other t-shirt –to-scarf tutorials on her blog here! 

Feel free to let your hair down. Rather than fuss with your mane in the summer, let the sun do the work—a little lemon juice worked into your hair while lying out is an excellent way to soak up the rays while lightening your color. Wear your tresses in beachy waves and utilize headbands or bandannas like these chic options from Anthropologie to keep strands off your face. If it seems too humid or your hair is unmanageable, you can always try a messy braid or chignon to hide a bad hair day. Of course you can break out your favorite wide-brimmed summer hat and call it a day. 

Don’t forget to enjoy yourself this summer. Keep cool and loose, and know you don’t need to give up comfort while beating the heat in style.