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Summer is a blessing to keep fabrics and styles light and airy, even when the humidity makes you want to hide in air-conditioned comfort for days on end. Always keep your sunscreen handy in these hot months, and read on for the wardrobe essentials that will keep you stylish and comfortable.

The Camisole

Nowadays camisoles and infinitely versatile, and have stepped out from being just another pretty undergarment that no one sees, into a spotlight item that can be worn just about anywhere. If you have narrow shoulders, or need to have a bra with shoulder straps, go for the thicker strapped camisoles... those with broader shoulders can get away with spaghetti straps. It's important to check for gapping under the arm area if you aren't wearing any additional layers to make sure that it has a proper fit and isn't revealing too much (sort of like the gapping effect jeans can have over your bottom). Since cami's tend to not be so expensive, and can add a lot of style, go for whatever one you find to be comfortable. If you're worried about it clinging in the wrong places, be assured that you can easily find one that has pleating or other details to draw attention to all the right places!

The Tunic

After a day in the sun (and I don't mean tanning), it's easy to get a chill once the sun goes down because you get accustomed to those warmer temps... Instead of reaching for the standby collegiate-style hoodie, try out a tunic. They come in plenty of different styles, and there isn't much better than the feeling of a nice linen against your skin. Pair it with some jeans (especially if there are mosquitoes around!) and you're in business!

Capris and Shorts

A nice pair of capris are easy to come by, and will add a lot of versatility to your summer wardrobe, not to mention how well they can show off your summer pedicure and a cute pair of shoes. And they don't have to be jeans either, they can certainly be a nice cotton twill, or a sleek straight-leg matte jersey, or even a nice stretch trouser ready for the office place. Shorts can be tough, and while some people will refuse to wear them all together, be sure to at least try some on at the store to help you stay cooler on those really scorching days.

The Sundress

Fewer things go better with summer than a sundress and a picnic. Think light, airy, and yes these can be loose because the materials are so light! Think of something you would love to spin around in. If it doesn't have a well defined waist, a great accessory would be rough leather belt to offset the delicate fabric of the dress (just make sure it isn't going to leave color behind!) If you're not a fan of the sundress, consider getting a shirt dress, which can be dressed up or down, has typically longer sleeves and will provide a collar for those of us who love a good collar. And pick up some sunglasses too... it's one accessory that everyone should have on their 'must-haves' for summer!

Linens and cottons are the most traditional fabrics for summer, as they breathe easy and offer optimal comfort to any size. Don't feel like you have to wear everything over sized just because you have a plus-sized frame. There are plenty of styles that come out every year that will be just as flattering on you as it will be on a petite slender frame, so start with the basics, and then try out some more trendy styles to build your wardrobe. And yes, I did leave the "bathing suit" out of the wardrobe essentials... not everyone can swim, likes to swim, or even has access to an area where they can swim. But if you do, that's an article for another time. Just have fun with your summer clothes, the season is all too brief in some areas, so take advantage of light as air textures while you can!

Learn more about this author, Lena Stark.
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