How to choose an easy summer outfit
news.com.au checkout fashion expert, Philippa, helps an Aussie woman pick out the perfect, easy-to-wear, throw-on summer outfit.
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Welcome to Hello checkout, news.com.au’s weekly column that aims to advise you on getting the most bang for your buck. This week, our resident fashion expert Philippa Tonkin helps someone pick out the perfect, easy-to-wear, throw-on summer outfit.
QUESTION
Now that the weather is warming up, I’m struggling with finding something easy to throw on. I’d love an outfit that I can easily pop on and know that I will always look stylish without having to put too much thought into it. Something that can be dressed up or down would be also be a bonus. Thank you!
– Hannah, QLD
ANSWER
Hi Hannah,
I can totally relate. Finding a chic but simple outfit that you know is going to work season after season is such a tough one. But you’ve definitely come to the right place. I, literally, spend my days trawling through online retailers to find great picks for everyday people like you and me and I think I’ve come up with some fab options for you, if I do say so myself.
First things first, if you’re looking for easy then a dress is the obvious choice. It’s a whole outfit in one item. Plus, it always make you feel that little bit more put together.
My top recommendation would be this Linen Blend Strappy Babydoll Midi Dress from Target. Target has seriously upped their game when it comes to fashion over the past few years and I’m so obsessed with dress.
Trust me, you’ll be sure to get a compliment every time you wear this.
Linen is no-brainer fabric for summer. It’s lightweight and breathable but also casual enough to show you’re not taking yourself too seriously. Plus, if you want a dress that is going to work for years, you really can’t go wrong with a classic black midi.
I first saw TikToker Nicole McNamara post in this dress and knew it would quickly be a bestseller so make sure to follow her instructions and “run to Target”.
The structured panneling around the bust is also a super flattering feature. I have a few dresses in this style and I find it really suits my larger chest. I was shopping with a friend a few weeks ago actually and she’d always stayed away from this style because she thought she needed something to come in at the waist. After convincing her to try it on, she bought it straight away and bought a second for her sister. Trust me, this is a dress you will not regret buying.
HONOURABLE MENTIONS
Aere Linen Gathered V Neck Puff Sleeve Midi Dress, $119 (down from $170) at THE ICONIC
If black isn’t for you, this baby blue Aere dress is super sweet. And if you’re someone who prefers sleeves over sleeveless, this also has you covered (literally). It’s lined so you don’t have to worry about any unwanted see-through action and the V-neck features the tiniest of subtle plunges. I have a very similar dress that I bought around five years ago and I still love it just as much now as I did then. I’ve worn it out to dinner, to family lunches and even to my friends’ wedding. If you want versatility, this is the way to go.
Cotton On Haven High Neck Maxi Dress, $41.99 (down from $59.99) at THE ICONIC
I actually bought this dress from Cotton On last summer and it made a perfect addition to my summer wardrobe. The first time I wore it to the office, my colleagues couldn’t believe it was only Cotton On. Everyone thought it was way more expensive. I packed it when I went on an overseas trip earlier this year and wore it so much as I was able to wear during the day with sneakers when sightseeing as well as with sandals out to dinner. Also, if you have some curves, don’t be put off. I was worried it wouldn’t sit well around my stomach and hips but was pleasantly surprised at how flattering it was.
Country Road Cinched Denim Mini Dress in Pink Meringue, $199 at Myer
For those who have a little bit extra to spend, you can always rely on Country Road to have what you need. This short sleeve denim mini dress comes in a pastel pink and features an elasticated waist to help create some shape. The shirt-style dress is a classic design that you can easily wear to work and on weekends. Plus, you know any pick from Country Road is going to be quality.
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