Summer style bible 101

Fashion is fun because it’s always evolving. Once rigid rules – like matching your bag to your shoes – have been pushed to the back of the cupboard like last season’s straw bag. Be a style slayer this summer with Leigh van den Berg’s tips.

HAVE FUN WITH ACCESSORIES
When it comes to accessories, don’t get locked into a look. They’re the quickest and easiest way to put a new-season spin on any classic outfit, be it jeans and a white shirt or a little black dress. Right now, bucket hats are having their big moment, chunky statement necklaces are back in business and, if you buy just one pair of earrings, be sure to make them hoops – the bigger and bolder, the better!

WHEN IN DOUBT, WEAR A DRESS
The great thing about a dress is that it’s an all-in-one outfit. You don’t have to worry about matching a top to a bottom, you can just throw it on and go. Thankfully, one of this summer’s hottest items is the easy, breezy trapeze dress. Glam it up with a pair of wedges or heels, or keep it casual with sneakers; either way you’ll be bang on trend.

BEGIN WITH YOUR BRA…
Many a great look has been ruined by the wrong underwear, so never underestimate it – it’s the foundation of your outfit. Start by replacing any bra that rides up your back, has straps that cut into your skin or cups that cause you to runneth over. Those panties that give you two tummies? Turf them! You’ll never be tempted to wear what’s not in your wardrobe.

DENIM IS TIMELESS – BUT PICK A FLATTERING FIT
A pair of denim jeans will always be a style staple. Just be sure to pick a pair in a style that best flatters your shape, and ignore all the rest. Happily, high-rise skinny jeans are big news right now and universally flattering, especially for apple or pear-shaped bodies. They do a great job of lengthening your legs and balancing out your hip area.

SWITCH UP YOUR BAG
We all have a favourite ‘kitchen sink’ bag, but don’t fall into a rut and use it every day. Buying a new bag is a great way to have fun with a trend while pulling together a look. This season, a mix of pastel and metallic hues are big, or a pop of mock croc or snakeskin. When you want to keep it casual, reach for an easygoing hobo bag or anything worn across the body, then swap it out for an eye-catching envelope clutch for a special night out.

IT’S ALL ABOUT YOUR MASK
Wearing a mask might feel like a hassle but it could just save your life. You can also make like a celeb and embrace it as a fun fashion opp. If Ariana Grande can rock the ’gram in a bedazzled, sequinned face mask, there’s no reason you can’t pop on something fun and make it a part of your #OOTD.