A Matter of Style
 Stay Stylishly Cool
 Allison Inman

The dog days of summer are upon us, and the heat is getting to me. I’m on a steady diet of popsicles and shaved ice.

My carpal tunnel syndrome has flared up due to excessive fanning. I keep an oven mitt in my car to prevent third degree burns when I grab the steering wheel. My beauty routine has been scaled back to a bare minimum: a bit of powder to absorb the inevitable perspiration, waterproof mascara in case I’m lucky enough to hit the pool, and a classic ponytail. Who can handle the heat of a hair dryer when the temperature is near triple digits?

Like my makeup, my wardrobe has been pared down to a select few items that can stand up to the heat. Easy cotton dresses, gauzy tops, and silk tanks have carried me through the sultry days. But there have been times so sticky, so sweltering, that the mere thought of pulling on a pair of long pants has caused an almost literal meltdown. What’s a gal to do but resort to shorts? It really is possible to find shorts that flatter any shape. I’ve put together a few tips to find the perfect pair so you can survive the rest of the summer in style!

If you have a tummy…
Shorts with a flat front will be your best bet. Look for styles with a wide waistband to help conceal trouble spots. Avoid cinched styles with belts or sashes, as well as patch pockets, as both draw unwanted attention.

If you have wide hips or thighs…
Look for shorts that create straight lines from the widest part of your hip to the hem. Darker colors also help streamline silhouettes. Stay away from tapered styles and those with on-seam pockets, which tend to bulge open and add bulk.

If you have an hourglass shape…
The waistband will be key for a great fit. Look for shorts with contoured waistbands to prevent gaping in the back. Belted or tab-front waists also work well. Avoid straight cuts, as they can have a boxy effect.

If you have a slim or straight shape…
Shorts with details that can add or define shape will work best. Find a pair with tab or patch pockets, pattern fabric, or even pleats. Stay away from styles that are extra baggy to keep from looking like you’re swimming in them.

If you have a curvy or plus size shape…
A style in a longer cut, like Bermuda shorts, will flatter you most. Look for shorts that hit at or just above the knee. Avoid any options with bells or whistles, like cargo styles.


What you wear with your shorts is equally important. Pair your pair with a breezy cotton top or a classic tee. If you’re going out for the evening, turn up the volume with an embellished tank. Wedges or heeled sandals add length, especially if they’re a nude shade. Go for a summertime staple with a cute espadrille. And don’t forget to take care of those legs before you bare them! A little bronzer, self-tanner, or shimmer lotion can go a long way. Here’s to staying stylishly cool for the rest of the summer!

I want to hear from you! E-mail me with your summer style tips: amatterofstyle2010@att.net.

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