by Erika Dykstra
Despite what you may have heard, "suit" does not mean "boring." As a noun, a suit is simply a jacket and trousers cut from the same cloth. As a verb, to suit is to look good on somebody. So this season, we say: Let your suit, suit you.
So what's in for suits this summer? Think Shrinky Dinks. Jackets - both short and long sleeve - have been minimized, cropped and fitted. And the trendiest of fashionistas are pairing theses diminutive jackets with short - and sometimes short-short - pants in lightweight fabrics like linen, seersucker and pique cotton.
At Fashion Week, leggy models strutted up and down the runways in body-hugging Daisy Dukes, topped with matching mini-jackets and absolutely nothing underneath. But on the streets, most gals are opting for a bit more coverage. For work, try a tailored walking short that hits just below the knee or a Capri pant. For play, try a short that ends just above the knee. For a yacht party (lucky you to get an invite!), raise that hem up higher. Much, much higher. And whether your shorts' inseam is 3" or 13," look for flat-fronts and straight legs, which will keep your suit looking as crisp as the ocean breeze.
Now what to wear under that tiny jacket: A thin cotton T-shirt? A ribbed tank? A silk camisole with lace trim? A string bikini top (you and your yacht parties!)? Just remember, what's under - or not under - your jacket can turn an office-casual suit into a hot-date getup.
Where to get the look? We've always loved the suits from Banana Republic and Bebe. And this season, they're suiting us again. |