Relationship expert-approved summer date styles

Jul 24, 2012 9:00 AM by Jessica Padykula

Posted in Love & Sex / Single Girls' Guide / Dating Tips

We asked April Masini, relationship and dating expert behind the AskApril.com advice column, about what to wear on a date this summer. “Fashion and dating go hand in hand,” she says. “If you want to win the dating game, you really have to be ready for anything, and having some good pieces in your closet for summer will help you relax, be ready and have fun because you're appropriately dressed on summer dates.”

White linen trousers

Often, simple is best for summer. “A beautiful, tailored pair of white trousers is a must-have for summer parties,” says Masini. The trick is to get a pair that fit well so they look polished. “Your tailor is your friend. Keep them dry-cleaned and ready to go, and if you can swing it, spring for a second pair,” she advises. Pair with a bold, beaded tank and strappy flats for effortless summer date style.

A great sundress

Getting ready for a summer date is easy if you have a few sundresses to choose from. “From day to night, a sexy, strappy sundress that works with flats or heels is a must-have for movies, ice cream dates and dinner,” says Masini. “Shop around for one that is fresh, fun and flirty.”

Two bathing suits

For summer, Masini advises getting two swimsuits -- one one-piece and one two-piece for pool parties and beach dates. If you haven’t sourced a suit yet, now’s the time. “Give yourself three weekends to shop for a great new one-piece and a great bikini so you're ready for anything,” she advises. “Bring a truthful friend with you so you have a second set of eyes and someone who will tell you what looks great and what doesn't.” If you don’t feel comfortable in a two-piece, get one sporty one-piece and something sexier like a one-shoulder style or something with cute cut-outs.

Two pairs of sandals

Get yourself one flat and one heeled pair so you’re ready for any summer date venue, advises Masini. She also suggests opting for quality over whatever you can find that’s on sale. “Don't scrimp here. Buy leather and buy shoes that are not just stylish, but fit well.”

Sun hat

Spice up summer date style and hide a bad hair day with stylish headwear. “A great sunhat is a must, says Masini. “Not only will you prevent sun damage, wrinkles, spots and bad burning, you'll look fabulous at the same time.” The type of hat is up to you -- just choose what flatters your face shape and hair style. But, “no baseball caps allowed,” Masini advises.

Walking shorts

A great pair of tailored walking shorts that aren’t too short make for a great piece to build a summer date outfit around. “Toss the daisy dukes and spring for a pair of shorts with nice pockets and a generous fit that you can wear on a daytime date,” says Masini. Pair with a sleeveless blouse and wedge sandals and you’re set for summer fun.

Watch: Add instant wow to your wardrobe

Today on the Daily Dish, personal stylist Fawn Cheng shows you how to add instant wow to your wardrobe.

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Tags: dating tips summer style

Comments

Comments on "Relationship expert-approved summer date styles"

These are all get staples for a summer wardrobe. I'd wear any of them on a date!

I am a total shorts devotee. They're playful, y and come in so many styles these days. My favorites are high waisted and a little short.

These tips are great staple pieces to have in your summer wardrobe whether or not you are in the dating scene. If you are already in a relationship, your guy will love that you are going out of your way to look your best for him and be prepared for any situation. I love the tip of having two bathing suits also, its always good to be prepared!

Wedges are THE BEST way to dress up a cute, comfortable summer outfit. I recently got a pair at Old Navy that I just love! I wear them with sundresses, and even jean shorts and a tank. Makes any outfit look awesome! Plus, they add color and pizzazz to your summer outfit.