This doesn’t seem weird when you spend time in air-conditioned buildings. I recently met a client for lunch and wore a sleeveless cotton dress. Although the dress was perfect for the occasion, I was uncomfortable during most of the meeting and left the restaurant feeling like an icicle. Transitioning from outdoor heat to indoor air-conditioning always presents a summer clothing dilemma.

My favorite solution is wearing a jacket. A jacket is a stylish way to keep you from freezing and to cover the upper arm; an issue for many ladies. I found a great selection of light-weight summer jackets on line at Chico’s. Not only are they modestly priced, they offer a wide range of sizes. It will be key to wear jackets only over something that is fitted: sheath dress or fitted top with slender trousers or pencil skirts. If you choose a print, the jacket should be plain. A brightly colored jacket will give a boost to black which tends to enhance every line or shadow of your face. Choosing a jacket color that complements your natural coloring will make you glow.

This white eyelet jacket would look great over a dress or slacks. The design has a feminine elegant look but the simple cut would work for many styles. A short jacket will be excellent for someone without much waist definition as your eye is drawn to the narrow opening in front. Avoid a short jacket if your build is a triangle, as it will accentuate the width of your hips. I love the ¾ length sleeves – a look that always makes your legs appear longer. I usually suggest pushing up sleeves to achieve this look but the shorter length sleeve has done it for you. When wearing a jacket note the proportion. Always avoid a half and half proportion. This short jacket will be great with slacks or a skirt that is a longer proportion than the jacket.

This longer jacket is an option and would be a perfect camouflage for hips wider than the shoulders. It is also a great look for someone with long legs. A shorter person could certainly wear this with slacks or a knee length skirt or dress. These sleeves could be pushed up and the collar popped up to add a little pizzazz. If you like a little drama, you might consider an animal print. This is a more casual look with the white top and beige slacks. The horizontal break where the colors meet visually widen and shorten your body.

This is not the print for anyone with medium brown hair that is turning gray as the print will blend with your hair and give an all-over gray look. This bright blue jacket is perfect for a traditional look. It would also be appropriate for the office.
Look cool and stay warm as you enjoy your summer events!