Style Sense: Vanilla Crème, A Styling Exercise in Summer Elegance

Introduction

You don’t need a closet full of coordinated outfits to look chic in summer. With just a few basic skirts and tops, you can create stylish, breathable looks that feel effortless. The key is simplicity—soft colors and gentle prints help you project calm and ease, even in heat and humidity.

This is the first post in my Style Sense series. Each look is built from two slim skirts and a mix of solid and printed tops. None of the pieces were bought as a set—they were collected over time. When you stay true to your style and color preferences, your wardrobe naturally works together. You can always shop your closet to create something fresh.

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Summer Chic: Vanilla Crème

A vanilla-colored pencil skirt is a summer essential. It pairs beautifully with halter tops, tanks, and breezy overblouses. Its soft neutrality complements both prints and solids, making it a versatile base for countless outfits.

In this look, the top is the focal point. To keep the eye drawn upward, I added a simple gold bangle and chose beige sandals that contrast subtly with the skirt. The soft floral tones—roses and leaves—add a feminine touch without overwhelming the palette.

Necklaces can feel heavy or sticky in humid weather. This top features a clever solution: the necklace is detachable and secured with clear plastic loops sewn beneath each shoulder. Each side of the necklace has a clasp that hooks into the loops. It’s a thoughtful detail that can be adapted to your own summer sewing projects.

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Style Notes

– Choose a mid-calf or ballerina-length pencil skirt in a neutral shade like vanilla
– Look for a stretch skirt with no zippers or wide waistbands—comfort matters in the heat
– If the skirt is sheer, wear a lightweight slip in white or off-white
– Select a top in a color or print that complements the skirt
– Sandals should be close to the skirt’s shade, or slightly lighter/darker
– Let the top be the focal point
– Keep jewelry minimal—bangles or earrings work well without adding bulk

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