Summer Layering

Dreaming of balmy summer nights? You’re not the only one! We’ve recently launched our new vacation shop and we can’t stop thinking about what clothes to pack and how to style them when we venture away this summer break.

With temperatures soaring up to the 80s and 90s across the States (or a positively tropical mid-70s if you’re in the Northwest) it’s time to think about updating your knitwear for the season. SS17 is all about contrasting, layering and fabrics, making it the perfect time to explore how you can adapt your sleeveless sweaters for contemporary, summer outfits. Sleeveless sweaters: perhaps the ideal knit for the summer months; warm enough to banish the evening chill, and comfortable enough for warm-day wear.

Keen to discover how a sleeveless sweater can work for you this summer? Here’s a few suggestions how this great knit can slot into your vacation style:

Team cotton with camis

The simple camisole boasts a luxury update this season, with brands around the globe adding sequins, frills and even more lace to this everyday staple. We’ve put our own twist on this summer classic by crafting ours in our luxurious, Silk & Cotton yarn. Lightweight and soft, it’s perfect for layering under outerwear or ponchos. With 21 colors to choose from (one for every holiday snap?) this vacation-shop favorite boasts a shade for every destination. If we absolutely had to choose a favorite, it’d probably be the goes-with-everything pale pink camisole.

Show off your shirt-sleeves

Florals are big this season – something that’s sure to answer many ladies’ prayers – and nothing could be more current than contrasting a floral shirt with a color block knit. Gaining bonus points for being a definite work-to-weekend style, this is absolutely the kind of outfit that’ll work well on a city break as it will during a regular day in the office. Why not choose a scoop neck sweater to really let your pattern stand out: pale colors work best here.

And for men, if florals aren’t your thing, this style still looks great with a strong variance between your shirt color and your vest. Our cashmere and cotton version adds a hint of luxury to the ultra-breathable appeal of the outfit; just pop it on and pretend you’re cruising on a fancy yacht instead of heading back to the office… we’re told that works!

Experiment with tunics

Short sleeve tunics are a timeless style, with this season’s focus being on statement sleeves – or in this case, a statement lack of sleeves – they’re a fantastic foundation for your summer look. It’s no secret that a relaxed-fit tunic is the ultimate holiday essential. Packing a tunic lets you mix and match more of your outfits, perfect when it comes to saving space in your suitcase for souvenirs! Plus, it might just be the best thing to wear whilst traveling; comfortable enough for your journey, tunics are brilliant to keep your temperature just right whilst you’re on airborne.

Summer-layering: your how-to

Feeling inspired by all the ideas in this article, but you still not too sure where to start (or you’re still reluctant to shake up your tried-and-trusted, shorts-and-top, vacation combo) then keep the following tips in mind when you’re choosing your vacation closet this season:

• Be smart when it comes to fabrics: knits that boast both Cotton and Silk, or Cotton and Cashmere, are perfect for the warm, summer months. Even if you’re up north, we’d recommend storing away your Lambswool warmers until at least Labor Day.
• Strike out away from your usual, tailored shirt: since you’ll likely to be wearing it under a vest for long periods, a loose-fitting shirt it best as it will keep its shape better and be more comfortable during the warm-weather months. Gain bonus points for choosing shirts with sleeves that are easy to roll up.
• Pattern and plain: it’s such a good tip, we’re saying it again! Mixing patterned layers with plain layers is great for producing summery looks. Make things extra summery by layering a brightly colored vest over an on-trend tropical print.
• Layering isn’t about adding: it sounds strange, but layering your clothes isn’t a matter of adding to them without thought. This is only going to make you look bulky (and imagine coping with the outcome on a hot, Arizona afternoon), so instead follow the simple formula of statement layer, contrast layer and accessory layer. The possibilities are endless!