Sitting poolside at the London West Hollywood Hotel, I teamed up with Jane Loddo of Harper's Bazaar magazine to help women reinvent their summer wardrobe without spending a fortune.
"It's like searching for buried treasure," said Loddo. "Dig into that closet and update your summer look using items you probably already have."
Look around your bedroom for tan, khaki or taupe colored items. Salesha of LA Models modeled a classic, hot-weather look from Carolina Herrera. The knee-length, tan-colored dress with a tie at the waist really stands out, especially when paired with striking sandal wedges.
"You can instantly update your look with just a few accessories, and the soft neutral look is a trend you can wear for seasons ahead," said Loddo.
Loddo said another way to save money is to mix and match colorful items you probably already have lying around. Holly from LA Models paired a bright, solid poppy-colored blouse along with a solid violet-hued skirt, both from DVF.
"The key is pick two or more solid blocks of color to make one great ensemble," Jane said. "Spice up your summer outfit without making an extra trip to the mall."
Poke around that closet or armoire and pull out a floral-patterned dress. Jane recommends a coral petal and cream-colored dress from Carolina Herrera, featuring a one-shoulder silhouette.
"It's very flattering, and it never goes out of style," said Loddo. "It's a great summer look that you can wear even next year."
Some accessories are worth storing and then re-introducing to a wardrobe. According to Loddo, nothing says "sunny weather" more than a stylish day-to-night straw bag, like the Lawn Party clutch from Kate Spade New York.
One other great warm weather accessory that never loses its appeal is the Vince Camuto straw and metallic wedge.
"A great wedge shoe always updates any look you have in your closet," said Loddo.
It also helps out with those of us who are short!
Harper's Bazaar said if you have to shop, choose carefully. Invest in a few pieces like those mentioned, and you can then reuse for seasons to come.
