It’s the age old question that’s been plaguing man (or woman in this case) for centuries… when the weather is hot, how do I keep cool while still looking great?  Ok, so maybe ‘for centuries’ was an exaggeration, but as we’re approaching the late August and September heat, it’s certainly on your mind now, ladies.  It’s relatively straightforward- the more articles of clothing you wear, the more interesting combinations you create… and the easier it is to play opposing or similar pieces off one another.  So, the scortching summer months that make you wish you had never stopped stripping after college so that your work attire would at least be comfortable and sweat-free… can have you screaming obsenities each morning and hastily serving your once-loved closet with divorce papers.  I thought I’d come to the rescue with some summer solutions that keep you cool while still looking put-together, stylish, and most important this time of year… carefree.

Summer Months - Keep Cool & Stay Hot

Since the option of layering waved bye-bye to you back in March, take the opposite approach and go head-to-toe with something great.  I’m talking one-pieces, they’re everywhere right now.  Whether they be retro, short, jumpsuits or overall dresses, pick a style and go with it.   A solid or print cotton dress (woven or knit) is always great for summer, but if you want to to express yourself a bit more this sizzling solstice, you’ll make the stretch into something that might be a new cut for you.  Let’s go left to right, shall we?

The always admired trendsetter, Sienna Miller might be the riskiest of these four ladies, so it’s no surprise she’s the one in the printed jumper and suede, heeled boots.  This look is fun with a capital F, but you must realize that you run the risk of being mistaken for a 4 year old… so do your best to accessorize with ‘grown-up’ goodies (ie. her shoes and watch).  Leighton Meester’s getup is actually two pieces, but it’s going after the same effect.  If you’ve never done a science experiment with your clothing to see how much colors actually effect heat on your body, it’s time to harness your inner Bill Nye and learn something.  You’ll be surprised what a difference this can make during a heat wave.  Leighton’s stone colored baggy, pleated shorts and sleeveless top are no doubt very comfortable.  Unfortunately they’re not right for her skin tone, but hey, that’s why she’s out there trying to get a golden tan.  If you are even a shade darker you’ll have no problem with this, or just go with white, white, white – I can’t say it enough this summer.  Rachel Bilson’s rocking the printed halter dresses… and a casper-like complexion.  I’m actually shocked she knows what to wear on a summer day because her skin looks as though she’s never been outdoors for one.  Nonetheless, a halter in solid or print is a can’t miss – but pairing it with laceless army boots and a cell phone is not advised.  This brings us to Rihanna and, more importantly, my favorite look of the bunch. This silk romper has a great color and pattern, and the neckline is cut just high enough that it runs no risk of looking like lingerie.  With retro fit and print, this outfit is spot on for this summer… and to me, it looks the most comfortable of these by far.  At first glance it looks like this piece has an interesting, halter-top + spaghetti strap neckline… but the halter strap is really a necklace with a similar pattern to the dress, and it works great!  Either way, I’d say you want to wear a necklace with this look.

There you have it – now go get dressed!