Summer Wardrobe Essentials

Summer is upon us and it's time to pack away the sweaters, corduroy pants and boots because warm weather requires a whole different wardrobe. Dark reds, blues and browns are exchanged for light or bright shades and fabrics go from thick and loose to thin and form fitting.

Having a closet full of clothes is less important than acquiring a few key items that can be matched with simpler, plainer items to create an overall look of class and style. A few great pieces paired with simple items and great accessories are really all you need to look your best this season.

Be sure to invest in a few lightweight bottoms, including shorts in a variety of lengths such as short, mid-thigh and Bermuda. Capri's or cropped pants are also a great choice, especially for the evenings. Dresses and/or skirts made from breezy fabrics are an easy way to dress up for any occasion.

You're also going to need some beach/pool gear. Two or three swimsuits is the best choice, that way you can still wear one while the other dries. You'll also need a bathing suit cover-up for walking to and from the beach or pool, or if you need to give your skin a break from the sun. A beach-sized towel is also a must; they are large and fit perfectly on lounge chairs. You'll also need a good pair of sunglasses and/or an oversized hat to protect your face and eyes from the summer's harsh sun. A beach bag or toe is also a great accessory, you can find one in colors to match your swimsuit or beach cover-up and they are usually quite large allowing you to bring along drinks, snacks camera, and most importantly, sunblock.

Lightweight cotton blends are great choices for tops and shirts in warm weather. A few solid colored tanks or tees easily paired with more brightly colored shorts or skirts. It's a good idea to select simple bottoms and pair them with a fun top as well. V-necks and tanks are good styles to select; they keep your body temperature cooler while showing off your tan. Elbow length cardigans are good picks for evenings spent outdoors when the temperature drops and you need a little jacket.

Summer footwear is just like clothes... light, open and airy. Flip-flops and sandals are a great way to show off summer pedicures, and keep your feet cool all at the same time. Sneakers can also come in handy when walking on hot sand or when playing at the park.

Accessories for summer should be bold, colorful and bigger than what you would normally wear. Everything seems more fun in the summertime; you should be ready to have a good time at a moment's notice. Summer is also a good time to wear foot jewelry, such as a simple toe ring or ankle bracelet.

Pajamas also need switching out as we say goodbye to cold weather. Summer pajamas consist of pretty nighties and shorts with camisoles. Cool, soft fabrics and airy cotton are great choices. It's also a good idea to switch our your big, bulky robe and slippers for lightweight replacements.

Have fun this summer and expand your wardrobe with colors and styles you wouldn't normally wear. Now is the perfect time to change your style. Adding fabulous styles to simple essentials will create a complete summer wardrobe.