Dopamine Dressing: Summer’s Happiest Colors and How to Wear Them
This season’s color palette is joyfully optimistic, vibrant, and bold.
No need to buy an entirely new warm weather wardrobe—these add-ons freshen up your old standbys.
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Summer clothes tend to be on the simpler side—a breezy dress, jean shorts, white tank, you get the idea. This means your summer accessories have a chance to truly be the star of the show. Whether you add a punch of color with a neon bag or go glam with cool jewelry, these little add-ons can help you make a big style statement. Here, the accessories that will be on-trend all summer long.
Whether heading to the pool or to sunset drinks, slipping your pedicured toes into a pair of stacked slides is the way to go. This platform style gives you a little extra height, is more comfortable than classic heels, and is a bit more unexpected than a flat sandal. Plus, you can find them in a variety of fabrications. Leather can lend a chic feel, brightly colored rubber is great for the beach or pool, and raffia has the ability to be dressed up or down.
Clutches in natural-looking materials will be all over the place this summer. Try one in straw or wood with a cotton ribbed slip dress for a daytime lunch date, then pair it with a silky top and wide leg pant for a night out. Another perk: When it’s time to head to the beach, you can simply throw it in a larger beach tote and it will keep all your essentials separate and easy to find.
Pull out your old standbys or buy some new sets. Right now, it’s all about having a stack of bangles on your arms rather than just one lonely bracelet. And don’t just stick to the gold and silver variety. Wood, bright resin, or even plastic beaded bangles are a great way to add a pop of fun to your summer outfit.
By now, you probably know that 90s style has come back in a major way. First it was Birkenstocks, then it was spaghetti straps, and now chain belts are having a moment. Gold will make the biggest impact—add it over a little black dress for nighttime or rock it with white jean shorts for a daytime look.
Another summer trend from way back when? The bucket hat. Not only will it provide some shade and sun protection, but they are usually made from a lightweight, absorbent fabric like cotton or terry cloth. Beach, park, or your friend’s BBQ—throw it on along with your SPF.
If your sunglasses wardrobe needs a refresh, consider a sporty, wrap-around pair. The plastic frames can be found in just about any color—we like tortoise shell for a minimalist vibe or trendy purple for something a bit more poppy. Tennis dresses (they’re so popular right now) are a perfect match for this sunglass style. Or, take them out of the workout world and onto the beach with a sleek bikini.
Bucket bags are as practical as a tote (hello, roominess), but feel a bit more unique. Available in tons of sizes and materials, you’re bound to find one that goes with your personal style. Grab an oversized crocheted bucket back for your trips to the pool or consider a smaller straw one for a sweet date night look.
From large Jennifer Lopez-style hoops to mini huggies, hoops are where it’s at this season. A simple pair will work just fine, but there are tons of fun options on the market that are worth your consideration. From vibrant beaded sets to neon resin pairs, consider something bright to liven up your look.
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This season’s color palette is joyfully optimistic, vibrant, and bold.