How to wear Cool Clear Color
in the Heat of Summer!

By late July, when the heat feels endless and getting dressed can seem more like a challenge than a pleasure, it’s very easy to reach for the same old things. A pale top, a tired pair of trousers, whatever feels cool and requires the least thought.

But Summer dressing doesn’t have to mean fading into the background.

In fact, in the brightest, hottest part of the year, clear, cool color can look wonderfully fresh. Crisp white, cobalt blue, turquoise, raspberry pink, emerald, navy, icy aqua - these are the shades that bring a little life back into a wardrobe when everything else feels wilted.

And for many women over 50, that can make all the difference. We still want to feel comfortable in the heat, of course, but we also want to feel like ourselves - polished, lifted and quietly confident.

Why Stronger Color looks so good in Summer

Shop the look: navy | print | pink | print

There’s a reason these colors come into their own at this time of year. Bright sunlight gives them clarity. White looks cleaner, navy looks crisp, turquoise feels positively cooling and a vivid pink can brighten the whole face.

When the weather is hot, stronger colors (whether they're classic plain or print) often feel fresher than muddy or faded ones. They have energy; they look intentional. And they can bring a lovely sense of brightness to your outfit without needing lots of detail or accessorising.

This is especially useful as we get older. Many of us find that soft beige, dusty florals or washed-out pastels can leave us looking more tired than we feel. Clear color, on the other hand, can add definition, sparkle and a healthy-looking lift.

If you love Color then this is your Season!

Shop the look: blue dress | lime dress | pink dress

If you’ve always enjoyed wearing color, high Summer is a wonderful time to embrace it. And if you’ve become a little cautious over the years, perhaps relying more and more on neutrals, this may be the perfect moment to welcome a little color back in.

You don’t have to wear anything loud or theatrical. A simple top in a clear blue, a cool pink sundress or a turquoise necklace against a white linen shirt can be enough to make you feel more vibrant.

That’s the beauty of these shades: they do the work for you.

A straightforward dress in a strong, flattering color often looks far more elegant than something over-patterned or over-designed. When the cut is simple and the fabric is easy, color becomes the special touch.

Start with Neutrals then add the LIFT!

One of the easiest ways to wear clear, cool color in Summer is to build your outfit around a neutral and then add one or two brighter accents.

White is ideal in hot weather and works beautifully with stronger shades. Navy is another lovely base - softer than black for some women, but still just as chic. Charcoal grey can work too, especially if you prefer a quieter look.

Some easy combinations to try are:

• white with turquoise
• navy with raspberry pink
• white with cobalt blue
• charcoal with icy aqua
• navy with emerald green

These pairings feel clean, modern, and put together without trying too hard.

If you like your wardrobe to mix and match easily, this approach is particularly helpful. A few neutral basics and a handful of colorful tops, scarves, sandals or jewellery pieces can give you plenty of variety without overcomplicating things.

Easy ways to wear it in the Heat!

Soft Surroundings from left: Batik palm | Santorini | Katia | Shirt

When it’s very hot, comfort has to come first. That’s why this look works best in breathable, easy fabrics and relaxed shapes - always thoughtfully chosen by Soft Surroundings. 

Think:

• a sleeveless or short-sleeved cotton dress in a clear pink or blue
• a white linen shirt worn open over a bright vest or swimsuit
• lightweight navy trousers with a cool-colored tee
• a simple skirt with a crisp bright top
• a loose shirt dress in turquoise, cobalt, or a fresh print with cool tones

And if, like many women over 50, you prefer a little more coverage while still staying cool, color can be your best friend. A longer sleeve in a light cotton, a flowing midi dress, or a collarless linen shirt can feel practical and flattering — and when the color is fresh, the whole outfit feels more alive.

You don't need to wear head to toe BRIGHTS

 white shirt | navy dress | grey top | black swimsuit

This is important, because many women assume that wearing stronger color means making a big statement. It really doesn’t.

If bright clothing feels a little too much for you, simply bring color in around the edges. A bag, earrings, sandals, a necklace or even a lipstick can make a surprising difference. Sometimes just that touch of cool, clear color near the face is enough to brighten your whole look.

• A white shirt with turquoise earrings.
• A navy dress with a pink sandal.
• A grey top with a berry lip.
• A black swimsuit with a vivid printed cover-up.

Small touches can be incredibly effective, and often feel more wearable day to day.

A little note for women who suit WINTER colors

All items from Kettlewell Colours

If you already know that Winter is your best color family, then these clear, cool shades are very likely some of your most flattering. Summer is a wonderful time to enjoy them.

Your bright whites, strong blues, cool pinks, jewel tones, and crisp contrasts can look especially striking in sunshine. You don’t need to put them away just because the shops fill up with soft peach, oatmeal, and faded floral prints.

If anything, this is your moment to shine in the colors that naturally bring your features to life.

The real secret: Wear what makes you feel fresh!

At this stage of life, most of us are far less interested in rigid rules and much more interested in feeling good in what we wear.

That, to me, is the real secret of Summer style.

• If pale, muted shades make you feel washed out, don’t force them.

• If stronger, clearer color brings your face to life, wear it.

• If you feel happier in navy and white with one bright accent than in head-to-toe neutrals, trust that instinct.

Clothes should support you, especially in weather that can feel draining. They should help you feel comfortable, yes - but also cheerful, attractive and fully yourself.

And sometimes, in the middle of a very hot Summer, a little clear, cool color is exactly what’s needed.

Dress right from Boden.