Black Velvet: Add a little European flavor this summer

Photography (c) Lesha Litonjua; Shirt, from Thrift. Trunks, by H&M. Shoes, by Sperry Top Siders. Sunglasses by Ray-Ban Aviators

Fashion in the summer has always been synonymous with bright or white colored shirts, shorts, board shorts, sandals, flip flops, top-siders and shades, and possibly a hat. While all of these are all fine, we can always try to improve and evolve our style here in the Philippines. A country known for their hot weather. Yes, we can copy the laid back style of the Americans in California, but it has become to mainstream in the sense that everyone does it. But what we need to look at it the other West side; Europe. Western Europeans, specifically have this flamboyant flair to their style along with the mere practicality they seem to posses and show with ease. Given that majority of the fashion capitals of the world are here, from Paris, Milan, among others; it's no surprise we can take a cue on how to dress up. But during the summer in the Philippines it's just so damn hot that we sometimes just want to wear something comfortable and forgo style for cool comfort. Well now that there are more brands emerging in the market it has become easier to get a taste on what is in season in the fashion world. We may not be getting the exact types of clothes they are wearing but as usual improvisation and the usual mixing and matching are what makes fashion interesting.

Shirt, by Uniqlo. Shorts, by Zara. Shoes, by Sperry Top Siders

Usually when we think of European style we always think of impeccably tailored suits, utilitarian clothing (almost business-ey). But in the summer or even on normal days, they prefer the comfort of shorts and an untuck polo over a pair of espadrills,a knit polo and sneakers, or a navy blazer paired with a stripped sweater over white pants with brown loafers. There are just so many combinations that we can replicate. So how do we look like them without looking pretentious? The one answer is color combination and not trying to hard. One of the easiest ways to start is brown and blue. The color gives an Italian vibe on it, along with wearing white pants. Go with a Hawaiian or printed shirt with pastel colored pants, then ditch the socks and show some ankle with loafers. The key is always looking as comfortable and care free, and never forget that the clothes always has to fit. Another trick here is always imagine going to a yacht or a sail boat, we are looking at Western Europe here people, the land of Cannes and Monaco.