cool girl summer style — Vanessa in Boston.

cool girl style is black + white...sometimes. (credit.)

It's a typical summer night and I’m sitting in a jersey Citizens of Humanity dress while I try to cool off with a brownie sundae. With the humidity in the air, I’m seriously questioning how I’m going to survive the next couple of months, sartorially speaking. But whether at the office, running errands or heading out on date night, I have a few ideas to get you started...

Lighten the load & shorten your shirt. (credit.)

Crop top | Imagine wearing a light and airy shirt with less…shirt. It’s the ultimate fashion fix for unbearably hot days. I happen to be a fan of the loose and flowy types as they cling to your skin less and make for a fun silhouette. You can also pair them with high-waisted pants to show off your shape (or create the illusion that you have one).

Grey | Not to rain on Piper’s parade but when it comes to summer, grey is the new black. It’s the lighter cousin of the ever-chic and always flattering darker color but is brighter and less expected. Wear grey just as you would any other neutral and pair with light metallic pieces to dress it up.

It’s the did-she-or-didn’t-she-go-to-yoga-&-look-that-great-after closet “must have”. (credit.)

Joggers | Skinny jeans are always making headlines but despite their popularity in the press, they’re the last thing I’m reaching for during the summer. If I must go the long-pant-route, I fake it with perfectly polished joggers that don’t cling to my legs. Monochrome pants are easy to wear to work while two-tone or more embellished styles can be worn out to play.

Jumpsuits are a summer no-brainer. (credit.)

Jumpsuits | Some mornings are too humid for thinking. For these mornings, there are jumpsuits. An outfit all-in-one. Grab a cardigan, for the days you’ll be spending in the refreshing but chilly A/C, and heels to lengthen your line and you’re good to go!

Sheer | Another summer heat cheat to stay cool without sacrificing style is by sacrificing fabric. At least the heavy stuff. My secret is to find a few pieces with cleverly (and work-appropriate) placed panels that let me breathe without looking cheap. Sleeves, hemlines and collars are all sneaky ways you can pull off this look.

Shirtdress | Another all-in-one win are dresses but shirt dresses are my favorite. They’re the most versatile 9-to-5 and beyond pieces you can own with a simple switch of shoes or jewelry to update your look. Considering I spend 40+ hours a week at the office, its best to be comfortable and transition easily instead of bringing a change of clothes with me every time I plan to be social “after hours”.

It’s the closet necessity you didn’t know you needed. (credit.)

Tanks | The least work-friendly of my summer picks are tanks but with a variety of styles out there, you’re bound to find one you can hide under your blazer until the day is done. Some of my favorites are the cotton-types with the wide arm holes that just beg for a bralette or stylish sports bra and chic shorts on lazy Saturdays at Farmer’s Markets or strolls through the city.