Many women focus primarily on preventing a tan, but sun exposure affects much more than skin tone. Repeated exposure to UV rays can contribute to hyperpigmentation, melasma, dark spots, premature wrinkles, and loss of skin elasticity. Over time, excessive sun exposure may also increase the risk of more serious skin damage.

The good news is that protecting your skin doesn’t mean giving up your favorite outdoor activities. With the right habits, products, and clothing choices, you can continue enjoying the outdoors while keeping your skin healthy, comfortable, and looking its best.

1. Choose a Broad-Spectrum SPF 50 Sunscreen

The foundation of any effective sun protection routine is a sunscreen that protects against both UVA and UVB rays. Many women focus only on preventing sunburn, but UVA rays are responsible for much of the premature aging, collagen breakdown, and hyperpigmentation that develop over time.

For extended outdoor activities, SPF 50 is typically the safest choice. Whether you’re hiking mountain trails, training for a race, cycling long distances, or spending the day at the beach, SPF 50 provides a stronger level of protection than lower-SPF products.

Look for broad-spectrum formulas that are lightweight, sweat-resistant, and comfortable enough to wear throughout the day. A sunscreen that feels good on your skin is one you’re much more likely to use consistently.

2. Apply Sunscreen Earlier Than You Think You Need To

One of the biggest mistakes women make is applying sunscreen right before stepping outside. Most sunscreens need time to form an even protective layer on the skin.

Ideally, sunscreen should be applied 15 to 20 minutes before sun exposure. This gives the active ingredients time to settle and provide more reliable protection once you’re outdoors.

If you’re heading out for a morning run, a long walk, or a day hike, make sunscreen one of the first products you apply after your skincare routine rather than the last thing you do before leaving the house.

3. Don’t Rely on Makeup With SPF Alone

Many foundations, BB creams, tinted moisturizers, and skin tints now contain SPF, but they shouldn’t replace a dedicated sunscreen.

The SPF rating listed on makeup products is based on applying a much thicker layer than most people actually use. To achieve the advertised protection level, you’d need to wear significantly more makeup than most women would find comfortable.

Instead, think of SPF makeup as an extra layer of protection. Your primary defense should always be a separate broad-spectrum sunscreen underneath.

4. Wear UPF Clothing During Long Outdoor Activities

Sunscreen isn’t the only way to block UV rays. In many situations, clothing provides more consistent protection because it doesn’t sweat off, rub off, or require frequent reapplication.

Modern UPF clothing is specifically designed to block ultraviolet radiation while remaining lightweight and breathable. Long-sleeve performance shirts, hiking layers, and athletic tops can dramatically reduce sun exposure during outdoor adventures.

This is especially helpful for runners, cyclists, hikers, travelers, and anyone who spends several hours outdoors at a time.

5. Bring a Hat Everywhere

A wide-brimmed hat can protect areas people frequently miss with sunscreen, including the scalp, ears, neck, and hairline.

Many signs of aging first appear in these overlooked areas because they receive years of cumulative sun exposure. A good hat creates portable shade, helping reduce direct UV exposure throughout the day.

For maximum protection, choose a hat with a brim wide enough to shade your entire face rather than just your forehead.

6. Protect Your Eyes With UV-Blocking Sunglasses

Sun protection isn’t only about your skin. UV exposure can also affect your eyes and the delicate skin surrounding them.

Squinting in bright sunlight contributes to fine lines around the eyes, while prolonged UV exposure may increase the risk of certain eye conditions over time.

Quality sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection can help reduce both concerns while making outdoor activities more comfortable and enjoyable.

7. Reapply Sunscreen Every Two Hours

Even the best sunscreen won’t last forever. Sweat, swimming, toweling off, and natural product breakdown gradually reduce its effectiveness. That’s why dermatologists consistently recommend reapplying sunscreen every two hours during extended outdoor exposure.

For women who wear makeup, sunscreen sticks, powders, and cushion formulas can make touch-ups easier without disrupting your look.

8. Be Extra Careful Around Water, Sand, and Concrete

Many people underestimate how much reflective surfaces increase UV exposure. Water, white sand, concrete sidewalks, and even glass buildings can reflect sunlight back onto your skin. This means you’re receiving UV exposure from multiple directions rather than just from above.

This effect is especially noticeable during beach vacations, lake trips, boating excursions, and other waterfront activities where reflected sunlight can significantly increase your total UV exposure.

9. Avoid Peak UV Hours When Possible

The strongest UV radiation typically occurs between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

If your schedule allows, try planning outdoor workouts, walks, and recreational activities during the early morning or late afternoon. These times are often cooler and generally involve lower UV intensity.

While sunscreen is still necessary, limiting exposure during peak hours can help reduce cumulative sun damage over time.

10. Don’t Let Cloudy Weather Fool You

Many women skip sunscreen when the weather looks overcast. Unfortunately, clouds don’t completely block UV radiation.

A significant percentage of UV rays can still penetrate cloud cover and reach your skin. That’s why sunburn and pigmentation issues can develop even on days that don’t feel particularly sunny.

Daily sunscreen use is important year-round, regardless of the weather forecast.

11. Watch for Early Signs of Sun Damage

Hyperpigmentation, melasma, freckles, uneven skin tone, and persistent dark spots are often early signs that your skin has experienced excessive UV exposure.

Addressing these concerns early is much easier than trying to reverse years of accumulated damage. Consistent sunscreen use can help prevent pigmentation issues from worsening and protect the results of any skincare treatments you’re already using.

12. Create a Complete Sun Protection System

Women who successfully maintain healthy skin while enjoying active outdoor lifestyles rarely rely on a single product.

Instead, they combine sunscreen, UPF clothing, hats, sunglasses, shade, and smart scheduling to create multiple layers of protection. Each layer helps compensate for the limitations of the others, resulting in more effective overall coverage.

Whether you’re a runner, hiker, cyclist, beach lover, gardener, or simply someone who enjoys spending time outdoors, this layered approach allows you to enjoy your favorite activities while helping protect your skin from long-term sun damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

All girls would agree that finding the perfect outfit is not an easy task because you have to mind the fit, color, and design, among other things. There are a ton of factors to consider in finding the best dresses for your figure, and the job is only harder for petite girls. 

If you are short, you are probably all too familiar with the feeling of finding beautiful pieces that end up too long. So we have to take that extra trip to the alteration shop to have it shortened. But you can’t find a staple that fits your figure perfectly.

Short ladies have a beautiful and unique body structure, which can be highlighted with the right pieces. Shorter girls are indeed underserved when it comes to fashion and clothing, but brands are beginning to recognize the need to develop designs and sizes to suit short ladies. 

To help you find the right one, we’ve compiled the best fashion for girls this year. In this blog post, you can save yourself the trouble of finding flattering pieces that are also the perfect fit.

WHAT DRESSES LOOK BEST ON PETITES?

Editor's Choice Best Overall	Best Proportion	Most Flattering Fit
Sheath Pieces A sheath outfit is the go-to for petite women. It's versatile enough to be worn casually or in a formal event, it flatters the body, and it's a classic look that will never go out of style!	Belted Ensembles If you have an elongated torso and you want to achieve a proportional look, then a belted ensemble is the one for you! It brings a pleasing 1/3 look that would easily elongate your legs.	Wrap Outfits If you love highlighting your curves, wrap outfits are for you. These highlight your curves, giving a slim silhouette and removing unwanted bulks.
Functionality: Quality: Price:	Functionality: Quality: Price:	Functionality: Quality: Price:

LET’S GO OVER THE BEST DRESSES FOR PETITES

#1: SHEATH DRESSES

Form Fitting:     
Heightening:     
Comfort:     

Sheath pieces are ideal and perfect for those with a petite frame. Their fit, straight, and flattering silhouette removes the unwanted bulk and focuses on highlighting the shape of your body. 

It perfectly adheres to fashion’s “rule of thirds,” which requires the division of spaces to be 1/3 at the top and 2/3 at the bottom. Sheath pieces can achieve this, making them the most aesthetically pleasing attire.

Not only does it give the perfect proportion, but it can also make you look as if you are taller and leaner. This is one of our favorite ensembles thanks to its timeless look that you can put on for any special occasion.

PROS AND CONS OF SHEATH DRESSES

Pros	Cons
Flatters your shape Slimmer silhouette Versatile dress	Some styles can be uncomfortable

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#2: BELTED DRESS

Form Fitting:     
Heightening:     
Comfort:     

Those with petite sizes tend to have a longer torso ratio, but you can improve this proportion. A belted ensemble is the key to changing how your vertical ratio looks.

Putting on a belt high enough to make your lower half look longer than your torso will make you look taller than you are. It’s best not to choose maxi dresses as they only make you look shorter. 

However, if you put on a belted piece, ensure the belt is high above your midriff. Avoid putting the belt directly on the midline because it won’t be able to do the magic of shortening your torso.

And much so should you avoid placing the belt below the midriff. This will make you look even shorter because it will elongate your torso instead of your lower limbs, putting your figure severely out of proportion. It’s the same for pants. You’d want to have the belt high up.

PROS AND CONS OF BELTED DRESS

Pros	Cons
Elongates your lower half Brings a proportioned look Comfortable	Some come in basic designs

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#3: WRAP DRESSES

Form Fitting:     
Heightening:     
Comfort:     

Gowns with a front closure are a trend. Every girl, both tall and short, would look great with one, but it looks incredible for shorter ladies.

They can help define your midriff area and showcase your curves. It hugs your body and decreases unwanted bulks, thereby elongating your figure. 

They are also a universal favorite because they can highlight your best features and are appropriate for any occasion! You can don this for a formal event, a date, or even as office attire. Those below or above 5 feet should have a few wrap pieces in their closets.

Note that some wrap outfits do not effectively hug your body and showcase your form and features. Some are too loose at the top and slim at the bottom, which are the types you should avoid.

They can make you look stout and shorter than you really are, so you should always choose form-fitting wrap.

PROS AND CONS OF WRAP DRESSES

Pros	Cons
Accentuates your curves Versatile dress Makes you look taller	Some designs can be too tight or bulky

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#4: BODYCON

Form Fitting:     
Heightening:     
Comfort:     

Bodycon dresses are a top choice for those with a petite stature because they bring a flattering silhouette without overwhelming the frame.

Unlike oversized or boxy ones, these pieces hug the natural shape, enhancing curves while elongating the figure. The form-fitting nature of these dresses helps maintain balance.

Choosing tailored designs and prints with strategic details, such as ruching or side panels, can further define the waist and cinch the midsection, giving a streamlined look that makes you feel confident and stylish.

For a versatile wardrobe, opt for lighter fabrics like silk for a relaxed, breathable feel or structured ones for added support. Classic colors such as black, beige, or a navy midi-length piece provide timeless elegance, while a white dress can offer a fresh, chic look.

When shopping, discover ones with vertical seams or asymmetrical hemlines to elongate the length further.

If you want to shop for a more elevated look, consider luxury brands with high-quality tailoring. These fashion tips will ensure you look polished, stylish, and effortlessly put together in any setting.

PROS AND CONS OF BODYCON

Pros	Cons
Can be for formal or casual events Makes you look taller	Can be difficult to match with

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#5: MINI AND MIDI DRESSES

Form Fitting:     
Heightening:     
Comfort:     

Mini dresses and midi dresses are ideal for a petite frame because they provide the illusion of elongated legs and maintain balance in proportions.

Shorter hemlines elongate the legs, while well-fitted midi dresses with slits or vertical patterns prevent overwhelming a smaller stature.

Incorporating these into a wardrobe ensures versatility, offering both casual and sophisticated looks that align with a vogue aesthetic.

Whether paired with heels for a refined touch or sneakers for a relaxed vibe, these midi dresses help them feel confident and effortlessly stylish.

PROS AND CONS OF MINI AND MIDI DRESSES

Pros	Cons
Shorter hemlines build the illusion of longer legs Midi dresses offer both casual and sophisticated styling options Structured fits help elongate the silhouette	If not well done, midi dresses may cut off at an unflattering point

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

CONCLUSION

From this collection of outfits, you’ll notice a pattern that will tell you what’s the best outfit to put on. Number one, choose vertical. Second, follow the rule of thirds and elongate your lower half instead of your torso. Third, you can never go wrong with form-fitting clothing. Fourth, simplicity is beauty. And last but not least, always go with what suits your personal style.

Remember these rules the next time you shop for gowns to don on any occasion. Of course, don’t forget the little details, like accessorizing it with a watch or bracelet.

Editor’s Choice

SHEATH DRESSES

Sheath gowns are designed to hug the body and highlight natural curves. This brings a sleek and streamlined look that makes petite ladies appear taller.

Plus, it’s tough to find clothing that fits perfectly when you’re petite, but they offer a great fit that will showcase your figure. They’re also versatile enough to be worn for casual events, business meetings, or formal gatherings.

A sheath piece is the ultimate go-to for petite women. They offer a perfect fit and versatility. Plus, they’re a timeless and classic style that will never go out of fashion.

Have you planned your next beach getaway yet? If not, you better do it soon! If you ask me, the only way to survive the unbearable summer sun is by being on the sand with as little clothing as possible. Or at least, plan for those beach holidays so you’ve got something to look forward to.

A beach getaway is not complete without an array of swimsuits that can be mixed and matched with other separates, as well as your normal clothes to make full use of your swimwear. And if you’re looking to update your swimsuit collection, I suggest that you go for something that may by a little more revealing than what you’re used to. You up for showing off your booty?

Sexier than your average bikini, thong swimwear is perfect for tanning and eliminating awkward panty lines when worn underneath shorts, skirts, or whatever clothing you choose to wear it under. Of course, cheeky swimsuits might be slightly uncomfortable for you to wear if you’ve never worn a thong in your life. They also might not be appropriate in public beaches or areas where foreigners don’t frequent. If that is the case, stick with modest swimwear and save your thong bikinis for private resorts and pools.

If you’re completely new to the whole “exposing almost all of your butt” type of swimwear, a Leopard Print High Cut One-piece is a great place to start. A beginner’s thong swimsuit, if you will, it shows less than the traditional bikini cut but more than your regular thong. Because it is a one-piece, it offers a sense of comfort that even though you are revealing more of your butt than usual, you’re covered up everywhere else to balance everything out.

To take things up a notch, there’s the OEM Thong Swimsuit. In terms of your bottom half, it has the same amount of coverage as the one-piece from earlier, but as for the rest of the swimsuit, it does expose a bit more skin (although not by much). If you really want to draw more attention to your back and your butt, this criss-cross design will do the trick. It’s also perfect for any smaller chested ladies that want to take the focus off the front part of their body.

A step up from the near backless one-piece above is the Amart High Cut Thong Swimsuit. With the blue and white stripes, button clasps and breast pocket mimicking the childhood staple known as overalls, the thong cut is least interesting part of the design, although something you should be aware of is the low sides, thus there will be a side boob situation on top of your butt being on display. You can always wear a bandeau underneath, like you might with regular overalls. Just be careful of strange tan lines.

If you’re more comfortable in your own skin, or just not a fan of one-piece swimsuits, then try out something like the OEM Thong Bikini. It looks just like your average triangle bikini that can be knotted at the front. The only difference is the thong cut, but if anything, these swim separates appear more cute rather than sexy with the floral design. Plus, that lace-like finish makes the swimsuit look like an adorably feminine bra and panty set from your favorite lingerie brand.

This last one is definitely not for the faint-hearted. If you really want to avoid tan lines and are extremely comfortable with your body and revealing swimsuits in general, then the OEM Micro Thong Bikini is definitely for you. With less coverage than most triangle bikinis and g-string bottoms, this two-piece covers just enough so that your privates aren’t exposed. While I do encourage body positivity and the idea that every body is a beach body, this swimsuit might be best reserved for private resorts and hotel pools in the Philippines and other swimsuit-conservative nations, just so you don’t attract unwanted attention. If you do end up traveling to a country that’s bikini friendly, by all means, show off that beautiful figure of yours!

The humble flip flop has played an essential role in everyday living, though you have to admit, they’re not exactly what you would call tres chic. They’re great for after pedicures and quick trips to the store, not so much as the final touch for an outfit. For beach and poolside ensembles, yes, but not for weekends in the city.

If your excuse of wearing flip flops all the time is that it’s too hot to wear other kinds of shoes and they’re easy to put on, have I got news for you. There are so many types of sandals out there that are just as effortless to slip into that are way more fashionable than flip flops. And the best part about these sandals is that they won’t give you any blisters between your big and second toes!

And have you noticed that every time you choose to wear your flip flops, the rest of the ensemble seems to match the lackluster quality of your footwear?

So let your flip flops take the back seat for a change, and try on these comfy, contemporary sandals to keep your outfits on point this summer!

1. Bow Slides

Forget those blister inducing bow ballet flats; bow slides are where it’s at. With shoes like Bow Slides from KW, you can still look sophisticated while wearing what are essentially slippers. You can dress these slides up with wide leg pants, or wear them in a more casual manner with some jeans (skinny or loose, the choice is yours) and a feminine blouse. Whatever you do, don’t go for any ripped or distressed jeans, since they’ll clash with the aesthetic of the bow slides.

2. Cork Sandals

More elevated than flip flops and more down-to-earth and cooler than your average strappy sandals, these cork sandals are as easy going as they get without resorting to ill-favored tsinelas. Cork Sandals from OEM and from an assortment of other brands give your outfit that beachy vibe that’s still appropriate for the metropolitan setting.

3. Espadrille Sandals

The canvas on espadrille sandals feel so good against your feet. Plus, they are much more breathable than leather and materials normally used on sandals, and they’re certainly more comfortable than the rubber on flip flops. They come in all different styles, but Espadrille Sandals from Audestore are almost like your alternative to ballet flats. Because the fish mouth style opening and the heel strap, it’s best to wear shorter bottoms, or at least cropped, fitted pants so that you can show off those small details.

4. Flat Mules

In need of work shoes that keep your feet comfortable all day but still says you’re a professional? Shoes like Flat Mules from OTHER are designed to pair with your work separates, such as palazzo pants, pencil skirts, and black jeans. With flat mules, you’ll never get that achy feeling that you normally do with heels, and you can easily slip out of your shoes when you’re sitting at your desk, in case you want to stretch those feet or let them breathe a little.

5. Platform Sandals

Everyone has been completely infatuated with 90’s fashion trends over the the last couple of years, and with good reason! Remember the iconic platform shoes made famous by the Spice Girls? Not saying to go too crazy with 6-inch platforms, but Platform Sandals from Kleinshop would do just fine. Match these with any casual getup featuring jeans, regardless if you’re channeling the decade with a frayed denim skirt or mixing fashion eras with mom jeans. Whichever jeans outfit you decide on, these platform sandals will maintain the cool and casual nature of it, without making it too dressed down like lounge wear.

6. Slide Sandals

Last but not least, there are sandal slides. Similar to the bow slides, these are made for those that aren’t too fond of little feminine details, but rather enjoy sleek slipper sandals that look nothing like the ones you use at hotel pools, such as Sandal Slides from KW. The key is to avoid sandal slides with a thick, rectangular strap. You want to go for ones with interesting shapes in a muted tone, so that they can be treated as nude flats. You can also opt for silver or metallic pink if you feel like the nude sandal slides are a little too flat, in terms of color.

Ah, bike shorts, a warm weather favorite among celebrities and off-duty models. It’s been on the fashion circuit for a couple years now, but the trend really took off last summer when the likes of the Hadids wore oversized hoodies for the athleisure aesthetic and the Kardashians wore men’s shirts for a more sophisticated look. And now, it’s forecasted that cycling shorts are going to be the shorts of the summer, as fashion houses like Chanel, Roberto Cavalli and Fendi had their models strut down the runway in their unique interpretations of the stretchy shorts rage.

Any thoughts on the garment? What’s your take on bike shorts?

To be honest, at first the cycling shorts trend seemed a little strange, but as more celebrities embraced the stretchy shorts in their weekend wear, the more the item made sense for the spring/summer season. If you think about it, they’re pretty similar to how we treat yoga pants or leggings. When jeans are way too rigid, tight and hot for the 30-degree weather, we spring for stretchy leggings, so are bike shorts our substitute for jean shorts? Apparently so.

Thus, it’s time to say goodbye to thigh chaffing, muffin tops and jeans riding up your crotch. While denim cutoffs and other jean shorts will forever remain a staple for your summer wardrobe, feel free to switch things up with this comfy alternative.

Not sure how to wear them? Here’s what we suggest:

1.Wear them with a short dress

Got a couple of dresses hanging in your closet that are a little too short to be worn on their own? Instead of opting for spanks that still remain hidden when you pull on the frock, pair it with bike shorts. Evidently, the cycling shorts look won’t fair well with all styles of dresses. You mainly want to go for basic, simple styles, such as t-shirt dresses, shirt dresses, shift dresses, generally nothing too structured. You could also wear them with fitted dresses if they’re casual enough. Definitely avoid bandage dresses.

2. Wear them with a blazer

Might seem silly pairing the classic dinner jacket with essentially sports gear, but hey, if it’s possible to dress up yoga pants, then the same can be done with Bike Shorts from OEM. A fitted blazer creates a feminine silhouette, while a boyfriend or oversized blazer plays to the menswear vibe of the entire look. You have several options of what you can wear underneath. If you’re not a fan of revealing too much or want a daytime appropriate look, go with a cami. If you’re a fan of crop tops, wear the blazer unbuttoned. Now if you’d like a sexier evening look, wear the blazer buttoned with a bralette, or dare to wear nothing underneath.

3. Wear them with a hoodie or loose long-sleeve tee

Experience ultimate comfort with a pullover or a loose long-sleeve tee and bike shorts. The sporty vibe is all well and good, but if you want to look a little more chic, sling a waist bag (previously known as a fanny pack) over your neck and shoulder. You can also spring for a designer or sleek crossbody to elevate the outfit. While sneakers may be the obvious choice of footwear for an ensemble like this, feel free to change things up with chunky Mary Janes or two-strap sandals.

4. Wear them with an oversized shirt

Perhaps the most popular way of wearing coveted bike shorts are with men’s shirts, or an oversized shirt. It’s a long way from the morning-after look as you let the shorts peek out from the hem of the shirt, although you can choose to knot it at the waist if you want to showcase the shorts as well. Then, finish the ensemble with barely there heels. If you’re leaving the shirt down, you can wear a waist belt or waist bag to create more shape, but if you’re wearing Bike Shorts with Pockets from OEM, best to keep the shirt loose. To finish that outfit, go for white sneakers or cool slides.

Have your opinions changed on bike shorts? Ours certainly have. If you have any other style tips or would like to share your outfits with us, remember to leave us a comment below!

If you could name five wardrobe items that you cannot live without in the summer?

Obviously, no two wardrobes are the same, however there are some things that every girl and woman could benefit from this time of year, fashion wise.

Summer is the season we want to wear as little (or at least breathable) clothing as possible, but as you know, no outfit is complete without its accessories. After all, every single detail counts.

Whether you’re going for resort chic, island vibes or sporty casual, there are several accessories that are important for surviving the season.

Summer Essential #1: A fun crossbody bag

Summer may be a great time to be wearing bright colors, but how often can you get away with neon? Doesn’t exactly fit in with the office environment, does it? Vibrant hues are much easier to work with on a daily basis when it’s on a crossbody bag, like a PU Leather Crossbody from AMOG. Bags like these then serve as a pop of color on an outfit of muted shades, though it also works to streamline an ensemble with matching or similar tones. Wear it out to a club or to the office, a brightly colored crossbody is absolutely necessary this season.

Summer Essential #2: Comfy yet sophisticated slides

Flip flops are always the easy choice when you’re feeling blah about your outfit and just need something no-fuss to slip you feet into. No hate towards the humble flip flop, but it doesn’t do much to elevate an ensemble. For something equally as breathable, just as comfy and way more stylish, best to go for slides. And we’re not talking about the furry slipper kind or the designer ones that are often seen on celebrities when they’re at the airport that look like they were taken from a hotel pool or spa. The summer essential we had in mind are almost like elegant slippers, if you will. You want a pair of shoes that will match easily with a tank and jeans, a tee and culottes, and a shirt dress, like sleek Korean Sandals from KW. Who knew that sophisticated and comfy could work in the same sentence?

Summer Essential #3: A functional, carryall tote

Summer is all about traveling, beach trips and weekend excursions, and when you’re away from home, it’s important to have a bag that will fit everything that you need. There are loads of tote bags you can choose from, and you want to pick one that’s sturdy and spacious enough to hold more than just your wallet and phone, such as a water bottle, sunscreen, a sunglasses case, and other stuff you might need to bring with you. It might be worth getting a tote like a Travel Tote from Victoria’s Secret, which is big enough to fit a towel, flip flops and a swimsuit if you’re headed to a resort.

Summer Essential #4: Crisp white sneakers that go with everything

There’s nothing quite as versatile as white sneakers. Even nontraditional brides are opting to wear white kicks with their wedding dress, thus you can wear white sneakers with pretty much everything. Don’t believe me? Take a look at Springfield Walker White Sneakers from Wilton.
With the exception of black tie gowns, there’s nothing you can’t wear with this, from playsuits and midi dresses to a tee with denim cutoffs. They have this fresh and minimalistic look that make them a must-have for the summer.

Summer Essential #5: The right sunglasses for your face shape

Last but definitely not least, sunglasses complete this list of essentials. There are hundreds of styles out there, and unfortunately, they haven’t been made to suit every face shape, unless you’ve been blessed with an oval face as it works with everything. It’s up to you to do research on the best styles for you. For example, anyone with a heart or square shaped face would look best in round or cat-eye frames, like Cool Sunglasses from MFSunnies. Round faces, on the other hand, would look best with wide, rectangular shades. As for oval face shapes, oversized is the way to go.

Did your essentials match ours? Let us know in the comments below if you have any other summer accessories that you can’t live without!

It’s been pretty hot lately, hasn’t it, ladies?

With the summer heat alive and kicking, we’re all planning our weekend escapes to the beach, or at least pretending to be oceanside as we soak up some rays while swimming in a pool. That means it’s time to share some outfits featuring swimsuits so that you’re ready to jump into the water at any given point.

And if you’re nowhere near a body of water or don’t have access to a pool, no worries. The awesome thing about the swimsuit outfits we’re featuring today is that they aren’t you’re typical sarong + bikini top combination that really should only be worn near the sea or a pool. While the clothing combos below are originally intended for a fashionista’s beach getaway, you can totally pull them off on the weekends in the city. And hey, if you and your friends end up having a spontaneous pool party, you’ll be totally prepared!

So whether you’re driving up to Subic on early Saturday morning or spending your weekend in Quezon City, these ensembles will surely offer some inspiration for your summer wardrobe.

Swimsuit Outfit #1: Bandeau Bikini + Overalls

I’ve mentioned this a couple times in the past, but for those who are new to the blog, if you were ever wondering how to look like and feel like an adult in the childhood staple known as overalls, wear them with some kind of cropped top. When it comes to your swimwear, think two-pieces with tops such as a cropped cami or a bandeau. A two-piece bikini from Kily is a perfect example of what type of swimsuits to match with your shortalls, skirt overalls, and just whatever kind of overalls you have in your collection.

Swimsuit Outfit #2: Cropped Bikini Top + Palazzo Pants

Palazzo pants, gauchos, and any loose, high waist pant silhouettes in general, are excellent pairings with two-pieces that have a cropped top, which normally come with high waist bottoms, like a high waist two-piece bikini from OEM. Loose pants work with a variety of silhouettes on top, though arguably the best combination that looks the best across all body types is a fitted crop top + wide leg pants. Not only that, the contradiction between the tight and loose separate is definitely on trend, and probably will be for a very long time.

Swimsuit Outfit #3: Triangular Bikini + Wrap Dress

Swimwear these days have taken on a variety of silhouettes, and clearly, we’ve come a long way from the humble triangular bikini that had way too many places to tie up. Unfortunately, triangular bikini tops can’t exactly pass off as tops like most other swimsuit separates, considering anything that shape is normally dubbed as a swimsuit or a bralette. However, a basic string bikini works well with v-necks and anything low-cut that deems it difficult to wear a bra with, such as a wrap dress. Just make sure that the fabric of the wrap dress is dark or at least thick so that it conceals the lines of your bikini bottoms.

Swimsuit Outfit #4: Sexy One-Piece + Boyfriend Jeans

There are lots of ways to wear a one-piece with a plunging neckline, though perhaps our favorite look is when it’s paired with something more traditionally masculine, such as boyfriend jeans. Just imagine a low-cut one-piece swimsuit from from OEM worn with some loose denim, may it be distressed or cropped. Boyfriend jeans are great for dialing back on the revealing nature of a sexy one-piece, making the whole look more approachable in the cityscape. If you still don’t feel like you’re covered enough, throw on a blazer with matching heeled ankle boots.

Swimsuit Outfit #5: Basic One-Piece + Jogger Pants

If you’re looking for a more laid-back or sporty look, wear an athletic or basic one-piece with jogger pants and sneakers. A low-back one-piece swimsuit from KikayStyle looks like any regular tank top, but don’t restrict yourself to basic hues. Whether you have a pinstripe monokini or a neon yellow one-shoulder number, jogger pants will give your swimsuit that athleisure vibe that’s so worthy of an Instagram snap.

Got any outfit ideas of your own? There are tons of fabulous swimwear inspired outfits out there, but feel free to share your suggestions and favorite ensembles in the comments section!

If you have any kimonos just hiding behind the rest of your clothes, you need to re-evaluate your wardrobe.

You might have good reason for ignoring them for most of the year, normally wearing them as beach cover-ups. Perhaps you bought one as part of an outfit for an outdoor music festival. Or maybe, you’ve simply forgotten about your kimonos, as you haven’t found that many occasions where you could wear them.

Light and airy, kimonos are perfect for layering in the Manila heat. As we know all to well, the Philippines isn’t really suited for outerwear unless it’s raining, unexpectedly chilly in the evening or too cold in the office. Depending on the time of year, normal cardigans sometimes are out of the question. Unlike cardigans, kimonos are cover-ups we can wear all year round.

Now the question, how do we style it? Let us count the ways:

1) All-black outfit

It doesn’t matter if it’s the middle of summer and almost 40 degrees, some of us just like to wear black. All the time.

But every now and then, we’ll add a bit of color to our ensemble, whether that’s a blue heel, a pink lip or a red handbag.

If you have the Summer kimono cover-up or anything like it, the kimono is a great way to introduce some color and print into a rather dark outfit.

2) Crop top and culottes

You might not be able to wear your bathing suit top with your kimono in the city, but you can wear a crop top. A sleeveless v-neck midriff is already very chic when paired with culottes, though a kimono over the outfit will definitely take it up a notch. Plus, a kimono is great for those that are still a bit shy to show off their midsection.

3) Tank top and shorts

Probably everyone’s go-to outfit when they’re just lounging around the house (or just generally being super casual) is the tank top/tee and shorts combo. On days you can’t be bothered coming up with a better outfit but still want to look dressier than usual, finish the look with a kimono.

4) Bodysuit and mom jeans

Some people prefer the skintight silhouette, wearing a bodysuit with skinny jeans, which also would work with a kimono as the cover-up provides contrast in shape. However, mom jeans and kimono offer some consistency in silhouettes from top to bottom.

And if you don’t own a bodysuit, you can substitute with your black one-piece swimsuit.

5) A simple dress

Simple can mean something different for everyone, so let’s break it down. By a simple dress, I mean no prints (unless it’s very subtle, assuming you’ll wear a solid-hued kimono), made with one type of fabric, and form-fitting silhouettes. So anything that’s sheath, bodycon, slip and in some instances drop-waist, will work. Just remember not to wear silk slips with a kimono, as that’s an ensemble that should be kept within the boudoir.

6) Cropped tee and high waist leggings

Athletic gear is super comfy, but as highlighted in the previous post, we really should get rid of the habit of wearing cute gym clothes when we’re not actually going to the gym. If you’re attached to your oh-so versatile black leggings and tees, at least layer it with a kimono. You can even wear sneakers.

7) Monochromatic ensemble

A solid colored kimono can also be matched with your tailored separates in the same or similar shade. Instead of going to work in a blazer, pair a neutral-toned kimono with similar colored slacks and a white tee.

8) Jeans and boots

Need a way to spice up your typical jeans and tee look? How about a Maxi crochet kaftan wrap with a pair of black knee-high or OTK boots? This jeans outfit is anything but boring.

9) Any basic outfit

Do you feel like something’s missing in your outfit? If you haven’t caught on already, a kimono is an effortless way to add some oomph into your look, especially if you have a printed cover-up. While you can keep things comfortable, don’t be afraid to add other styling details, such as a statement necklace, wedges, or even a sparkly clutch.

10) Bra top and high waist jeans

Bra tops can be pretty difficult to pull off outside of the club scene. For a sexy but daytime appropriate look that will transition into the evening, wear a kimono over a bra top and high waist jeans. Whether you go for skinny, cropped, distressed, boyfriend, that’s up to you.

How will YOU wear your kimono?

Another week has come and gone, and Mondays always seem to be the hardest day, recovering from the weekend and all.

It’s the end of the workday, and what most of us are thinking about to get through the week is what we’re going to do this Friday or Saturday. Although it might be a little too early to figure out exact plans, one thing you can do that will help you see the light at the end of the tunnel is shop for a new outfit. They don’t call it retail therapy for nothing, and nothing says, “Weekend’s here” like a two-piece matchy-matchy set, just like the one shown above.

If you haven’t noticed already on Instagram (as well as other places you look for a bit of outfit inspos), social media influencers and celebrities have been wearing all kinds of two-piece ensembles, from tube top and skater skirt combinations to coordinated crop top and culottes ensembles.

While the concept of matching top and bottoms seem uniform-esque, you have to admit, the idea of wearing a set is very intriguing. The clothing combos take the effort out of rummaging through your wardrobe for separates, only for you to end up wearing another variation of the same outfit you usually wear. Two-piece sets are eye-catching, cute, and perfect for weekend activities in our hot tropical country. Plus, there’s no question on how to wear the set. It’s just a matter of how you’ll style it to your taste.

Not entirely sure when and where you can wear a two-piece outfit? Let’s have a look at the sets we have on Pretty Me to use as our examples.

The Leopard print crop top and shorts set is as casual as it gets. A combo like this is definitely a must for a beach setting, where everyone is walking around half naked anyway. It also works for family friendly pool parties as sort of a cover-up for your swimsuit. Because the Philippines is still relatively a conservative country as a whole, this is a lot of skin for a quick trip to the mall or lunch with friends, so it’s best to save this outfit for holidays outside of the country, beach getaways, and generally any setting where you’re surrounded by water.

To style this set, feel free to go for white sneakers, black sandals, fluffy slides, whatever you’re in the mood for. Since the clothes are in black in white, a pop of red or pink on your lip or bag would be a nice contrast. As for hair, beach waves.

You can also just lounge around the house in this. It’s perfect for those extremely hot days when you don’t want to look like a total mess at home in your pang bahay.

Now if you’ve got something more like a Two piece strapless crop top and casual shorts set, it’s an ensemble you can wear to boat parties, summer beach parties, as well as Vegas-style clubs that have a pool, cabanas and everything (aka The Palace). This tube and shorts combo is slightly dressier than the previous set, making it more appropriate for a night out, whether you’re by the beach or in the city.

Leave the slides for casual settings. If you are heading to The Palace, wedges would be your choice of heels to stay within that beachy vibe. If you can’t do the heels, go for gladiator sandals.

Not all sets are as informal as the two we’ve previously featured. In fact, if you have a cocktail party in the books, a wedding, or some other semi-formal to formal event in the near future, a Two piece O-neck crop top and side split maxi skirt is a fantastic outfit choice. Tastefully showing skin without uncovering too much, this set proves that there are tons of other options for formal occasions out there besides dresses. Plus, that side slit was made for showing off your best heels, which I’ll bet you normally save for those dressy events anyway.

As for styling, an updo and gold jewelry would be suited for something fancier, while hair down, statement necklaces and colorful heels would be better for semi-formal parties.

What set will you be wearing this weekend? Remember, you can visit the product pages for additional styling tips in case you’re out of ideas.

It’s insanely hot in the Metro, which only means one thing: frequent beach getaways (or at least weekends by the pool). And with all that time we’re spending by the water, a swimwear update is much needed. Today, we’re focusing on the one-piece, which many of us probably haven’t worn since we were kids. Luckily, monokinis are back with a vengeance, and if you don’t own any at the moment, it’s high time that you bought a few this summer.

Not sure what kind of bodysuit to go for? Each one-piece has its own personality, which we’ve highlighted a few below. And if you don’t belong in any of those categories, don’t let that stop you from finding the monokini for you. Remember that there’s always something for everyone.

The Cool Surfer Chick

There are many reasons why someone would want to something that covers more than the average swimsuit.

1. It’s a better alternative to a rash guard, if you’re a surfer girl or generally love activities in the water.
2. More coverage means protection against those UV rays, which means less sunscreen you need to put on.
3. It’s suited for anyone who is more comfortable with modest swimwear.

No matter what the underlying reason is, a long-sleeve bodysuit is an awesome silhouette to add to your collection. As strange as it might seem, it’s a unique piece that any beach bum should give a go.  If you opt for something like the Long Sleeve Leaf Print One-Piece Swimsuit, it goes extremely well with board (or other waterproof) shorts. Plus, the bodysuit also gives off the vibe that you’re totally into water sports and adventures. And in case you want to show off a little bit more, zip it down for some cleavage.

The Bold and the Beautiful

For those who feel intimidated by low-cut tops and plunging necklines in everyday wear, the one area in your wardrobe that you can experiment without constantly thinking about whether others are judging you is swimwear. Whether it’s that deep V-neck going all the way to your belly button, as first seen on celebrities like Paris Hilton, or something low-back or backless, the pool and the beach are quite welcoming of such silhouettes.

With such daring designs, some think that an hourglass shape is necessary to pull them off. But on the contrary, sexy one-pieces look great on every body type. Take a look at the Rope One-Piece Swimsuit as an example. While one can argue that it’s most flattering on a busty or hourglass figure, the swimsuit looks just as sexy on smaller-chested ladies and those with a stockier build.

The Trendy Instagram Model

While tassels and ruffles aren’t exactly practical for swimming laps, you can’t deny how unbelievably cute they are as swimsuit embellishments. Let’s face it: the majority of us these days are more concerned about looking our best by the water.

Any time we find ourselves on the beach while everyone else has to suffer from the Manila heat, we have this urge to post a pic on Instagram to incite jealousy from our followers. And when we’re doing it for the ‘gram, we have to make sure we’ve got a good angle, a breathtaking background, and a chic swimsuit.

When it comes to Insta-worthy swimsuits, we’re not talking about generic, triangular two-pieces. We mean distinctive silhouettes, one-of-a-kind prints, design aspects that make the suit stand out from the rest. How often do you see other women sporting off-shoulder bodysuits, particularly something like the Bohemian Floral Print One-Piece Swimsuit? It would be a crime not to dedicate a social media post to this spectacular item.

The Sexy Socialite

Got other plans for the day that are away from the beach, but don’t really have time to shower before your night out? This is where monokinis come in handy. Generally, one-pieces can double as daytime or evening outfits, if need be. A bodysuit, denim cutoffs and a cardigan can be worn around town. If you have evening plans, skinny jeans with the Push-Up One-Piece Swimsuit is good enough for bar-hopping. And if you just so happen to run into a pool or foam party, you’ve got your suit in case you want to jump in on the fun.