Look hot while staying cool

Look hot while staying cool

Though spring officially lasts until June 21, the world, and Florence in particular, is seeing its climate change drastically from winter to summer. Keep your ears open and you will hear everyone lamenting that the mezze stagioni (fall and spring) have virtually disappeared.   More than a comment on the

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Thu 12 Jun 2008 12:00 AM

Though spring officially lasts until June 21, the world, and Florence in particular, is seeing its climate change drastically from winter to summer. Keep your ears open and you will hear everyone lamenting that the mezze stagioni (fall and spring) have virtually disappeared.

 

More than a comment on the changing global climate, it is a disappointment to many Italians (myself included) who would love more chances to show off their fabulous spring pieces before ending up in our tank tops and shorts.

 

That said, it is true that Italians tend to ‘dress according to the calendar’, meaning that a sunny 70° degree day in March is still met with jackets, scarves and closed-toed shoes by the locals-while our American counterparts are blissfully cruising the streets in flip-flops and summer garb.

 

However, what do you do when the temperature is really rising and all you want to do is find a way to beat the heat and be comfortable? Do you feel forced to forgo style in one of the most beautiful cities in the world and walk around like you’re on your way to the beach? Never fear, I have a few tips for looking stylish in the city while staying cool and collected.

 

The ancient Romans used to say In medius stat virtus-‘the best is halfway’-which is the perfect motto to apply to your summer wardrobe. Abandon the white, strapless or light cotton jersey dresses that are more suitable for the beach (with your bikini underneath) and acquire some urban Florentine style by following some simple guidelines.

 

The first and most important rule for any successful outfit: balance the look. If you prefer dresses, look for ones with darts and pockets that give them the structure and detail appropriate for city streets. If the dress is short, it should have sleeves; and if the neckline is low, the hem should fall at the knee. When you show the upper part of the body-shoulders, arms and cleavage-cover up the bottom part, and vice versa.

 

Remember, when heading out with bare shoulders, bring another layer. It could get chilly and it is essential to be covered if you want to step into one of the city’s fascinating churches. It also adds a touch of Florentine chic to your outfit.

 

Mini-skirts are great in summer, but beware of entirely-too-short minis (the ones that look like big belts!), which are much more appropriate for the beach. White pants are a must-have-I prefer long with a wide leg. Style tip: please make sure no panties are showing.

 

This season’s skinny Bermuda shorts are elegant and look good on almost everyone. Businesswomen need a cotton or linen suit-go for a feminine European tailleur, which is a jacket and a skirt. When it gets very hot, you can replace the jacket with a classic white button-down. Synthetic fabrics are to be avoided at all costs as they trap heat. Choose natural fabrics like cotton and especially linen, the most lightweight and summery material there is.

 

Finally, a note on girls’ night out: sexy is great, but not overexposing yourself is a good rule for a safe and fun night on the town. And don’t forget to stash some flats in your purse for the way home…Florentine streets can be challenging!

 

 

GETTING THE LOOK

During Milan spring/summer 2008 Fashion Week, many designers showed the ‘art-look’-clothes and accessories inspired by artists and art trends. What better place to apply this look than Italy’s premier art city? Let’s see how simple souvenir t-shirts can be turned into two trendy and very chic looks for summer. 

 

Look one: Take a white t-shirt with a Michelangelo or Botticelli print and roll up the sleeves. Tuck it into a simple beige or grey peg or pencil skirt (better if it has pockets). Add heeled ankle boots or open-toe pumps and a clutch. Complete the look with big round sunglasses and button earrings. Go for all neutral color tones.

 

Look two: Get a very big men’s t-shirt (try white if the cotton is not too light and see-through; otherwise go for light blue or beige). Cut out a boat neckline and roll up the sleeves and wear it as a mini dress with a men’s linen summer blazer (from one of the many local vintage stores) or a simple classic men’s shirt. If your ‘dress’ is white, try a blue jacket or a light blue shirt; if it’s beige or light blue, pair it with a plain white or pin-striped shirt. Remember to roll up your sleeves at the elbows. Complete the look with trendy (and comfortable!) brown leather sandals and a big shopping-bag purse.

 

 

FOR MEN: GETTING THE SUMMER LOOK

All this talk about women’s wear is hardly fair to our male readers. Guys, all you have to do is take a classic white linen shirt, roll the sleeves above the elbows, pair it with green or khaki cargo Bermuda shorts and black flip-flops, and you’re set! Extra style tip: replace the shorts with a pair of nice, worn-in denim pants and you are ready for a fun night on the town, from aperitivo time to the club.

 

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