The official start of summer is less than a couple of weeks away.  Summer demands a wardrobe of brilliantly chosen professional  basics to help us get through the steamy weeks ahead in style. Remember, there are basic clothes and the “right” basics; the difference between the two will determine whether you look stylish or not, whether in business formal or business casual situations.

If you still haven’t had a chance to perfect your summer business wardrobe last month, here are my 5 top picks of chic, summer basics that are key for looking sophisticated, style savvy, and well connected in your business. Every closet should have at least one of these items to help you put your most stylish foot forward during the summer months!

1) Aviator Sunglasses

These classic sunglasses have made a big comeback this season, especially in the gold tone. Aviators are fantastic because they are an ideal shape for any face shape. Just make sure to choose the size in proportion to your face, i.e. smaller frames for petites and larger for medium and bigger women. A fun twist to these shades is a slight shiny glaze on the lenses that add a bit more interest, like the ones that Jessica Parker wears in SITC2. 

2) Nude Shoes: platforms, wedges, or sandals

We are very lucky this summer to have such a wide selection of nude colored shoes! The great thing about the nude color is that we can pair these shoes with anything we already own in our closet, such as prints, stripes, bold color items.  But most of all, the nude color tricks the eye into elongating the leg so we can all look taller and slimmer…add that to platforms and wedges and “voila” mile long legs!

If you are opting for flatter versions, I suggest that you wear them with a shorter length skirt , cropped trousers, so not to make you look too bottom heavy or short.

3) Neutral Tone Shirtdress

Neutral tones are synonymous with elegance because of their slight and soft tones. Summer 2010 is about nudes (gray , champagne, beige). Breezy and easy for summer, a neutral shirtdress is the ultimate wardrobe blank canvas here. When it hits the right thigh length, this dress is always appropriate business wear.  You can pair this number with colorful beads, scarves, jackets, cardigan, etc. and it can be transformed into a Fall/Winter staple with opaque tights for cooler weather. Just make sure to buy the right shape dress for your body type and buy one that’s good quality and will last you for several years of summer sun.

4) Pale Cardigan

A pale, lightweight cardigan is one of the most versatile pieces we can own in the summer. The long V-neck button up style looks  great with all your work separates as well as a being a great piece to layer with for your casual looks. It’s a great piece to keep on hand for blasting air-con and those cool summer nights.  

5) Hoop Earrings

These classic favorites are back with a vengeance this summer. Shiny hoops are an instant pick –me-up to brighten up the face and go with every style accessory. These earrings  look good on all face shapes and give everyone a more youthful appearance. Just be careful with the proportions here. Smaller hoops work better on smaller faces, medium to large hoops are better on larger ladies.

Happy shopping and to your stylish success!