Sunkissed summer style: Add colour to your summer wardrobe
CHO Fashion & Lifestyle
The summer sunshine is finally here, and what better way to embrace it than by updating your summer wardrobe?
Now it’s officially summer; prepare to curate a classic summer palette as we delve into summer styling!
In this guide, we’re recommending our top tips on colours to choose for your most stylish summer yet. From the colours to embrace to those to avoid in the heat, when the weather’s hot, you’re guaranteed to stay fresh and cool in vibrant colours!
Table of contents:
What colours to wear in summer
Is it better to wear light or dark clothes in hot weather?
How do you add colour to an outfit?
What colours to wear in summer
When adding colour to your wardrobe, it can be difficult to know where to start. It’s natural to be immediately drawn to a classic summer palette of sunkissed yellows and oranges in summer. However, this could be wasted if you invest in pieces that don’t suit you or that you’re unsure how to pair with your existing wardrobe.
Here are the summery colours we’re coveting this year, to help you make a more considered choice before you invest. From the best colours to choose to how to style them, it’s never been easier to curate an array of perfect summer looks!
- White
It may seem a safe bet to start with a neutral, but no colour screams summer more than white. Whether that’s a crisp white T-shirt or a classic white short-sleeve shirt, white is an exceptional summer staple as it goes with everything, reflects the heat and light from the sun to help keep you cool, and is a great colour to pair with a fresh, sunkissed tan.
Ladies Barbour International Sofia Relaxed-Fit T-Shirt
If you’re choosing a white top, pairing it with a darker bottom colour, such as blue denim or a classic navy, is a great way to make the colour pop.
White dresses are also a great summer holiday staple, as they can easily be paired with a range of bright footwear and accessories for a fully curated summer look.
- Yellow
Was there ever a shade more sunny than yellow?
Yellow is the epitome of summer style because of its association with the sun. Linked to vitality and joy, this sunshine-inspired shade is a vibrant choice that will be a favourite throughout the sunnier months.
Tommy Hilfiger Moss Crepe Rose Women’s Blouse
Yellow can be a notoriously difficult colour to wear, especially if you have a fair skin tone, as its vibrance can leave your skin feeling pale. With this in mind, if you love yellow, opt for a patterned top in a darker shade to break up the intensity of the colour, or choose a fun yellow accessory, such as a stunning Fjallraven backpack, to complete your summer look!
- Pink
The positive nature and brightness of pink make it the perfect summer colour to add to your wardrobe. If you find yourself drawn to happy colours, pink is a mood elevator, and with so many different shades available, there’s an option for every skin tone and occasion.
Pale pinks are perfect summer neutrals, whereas more fuchsia-leaning shades provide a stylish dopamine pop.
Boss Orange TChup Mens Crew Neck Small Logo T-Shirt
Barbour International Halton Women’s T-Shirt Dress
We’re fans of pink with peach or coral undertones at CHO this season. Perfect for pairing with classic neutrals such as khaki cargo pants or beige linen trousers or with bold blues for a vibrant explosion of colour, this shade also sits in the same family as Pantone Colour Of The Year ‘Peach Fuzz’, synonymous with warmth and modern elegance.
- Mint Green
Refreshing and rejuvenating, mint green is the stylish essential every summer wardrobe is searching for this season. Reminiscent of ice cream cones and relaxing summer seas when sunlight reflects across the water, mint green inspires creativity and stimulates happiness.
Calvin Klein CKJ Monogram Mens Short Drawstring Swim shorts
HUGO 2P QS RIB ICONCOL CC Mens Socks
To make a statement with mint green, pare back all your other colour shades, opt for classic neutrals and allow the shade to pop. Prepare for a sunny disposition; wear after wear.
- Neutrals
You heard it here first: neutrals such as light beige, brown and grey are ideal for summer, giving a stylish and luxurious aesthetic and an effortlessly put-together style.
Opt for linens for an old-money-inspired aesthetic that will also be cool and breathable on even the hottest summer days, and lean into pastel shades to add a slightly colourful twist to an otherwise pared-back look. And the best thing about adding neutrals to your summer wardrobe? They transcend trends, giving you a wealth of cross-seasonal looks!
Is it better to wear light or dark clothes in hot weather?
In summer, it might seem obvious to avoid wearing darker colours such as black, but did you know that black can be a great choice if you are prone to sunburn, as the fabric can help block out the sun’s UV rays?
Lighter-coloured clothes are a great option for keeping you cool, as sunlight reflects off them to prevent you from overheating. So, if you are prone to sweating, a lighter-coloured summer wardrobe might be a better choice. Although dark clothing doesn’t absorb the sun’s rays, it does absorb the heat, so you may find wearing something dark a little too warm during the summer months.
HUGO Ebor Relaxed Fit Mens Stretch Cotton Shirt
However, the real answer comes down to personal preference. If you prefer darker shades in your wardrobe, there’s no reason why these can’t be worn during the summer. In this case, your best bet is to choose loose-fitting clothing made from natural, light and airy materials, such as linen and cotton, to allow your skin to breathe.
How do you add colour to an outfit?
If you love classic, neutral shades but want to experiment with colour, adding more colour to your wardrobe can seem daunting. But don’t fret! There are a few ways to easily embrace colour, giving your neutrals that colour pop they deserve!
- All out colour
If you’re bold and daring, coordinating your outfit is a great way to take on a colour! Start with a neutral basic, such as a plain white T-shirt and then build your outfit around it to make a colour statement. Why not try a Fuschia pink short suit or a coordinating T-shirt and joggers set for an effortless, statement style?
- Choose colours that work with your neutrals
If going for statement colour isn’t your thing, why not start by seeing which colours look best with your neutrals and take it from there? For example, hot pink pairs well with black, whereas coral can look incredibly chic with classic blue denim. Once you better understand how colour palettes can work together, you’ll be able to make more informed choices and have more confidence in your outfits.
- Add a colourful accent
If you’re uncomfortable with colour, start with an accent piece whilst keeping everything else neutral. A bright and bold bag, a statement pair of shoes or a multicoloured scarf are all great accessories you can add to your neutral outfits to experiment with colour. Then, when you’re more confident with what suits you, you can change some of your neutral garments for more bright, bold pieces.
Ted Baker - Croccon Women’s Imitation Croc Large Icon Bag
Shop colourful summer style at CHO
By experimenting with our favourite summer season colours and introducing some bright new pieces into your wardrobe, you’ll be curating perfect summer looks in no time! So, why not shop for some new summer staples at CHO? Whether looking for men’s t-shirts or a chic summer dress before your next vacation, you’ll find everything you need to style your perfect summer looks.
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