Winter is far from over, but if you are like me, spring style is already on your mind. Tees and tanks are the usual summer basics when it comes to what you wear on top. Because these are the most affordable and easy to find, we forget there are other options for summer staples out there. You have plenty of time now to start looking and thinking about different types of warm weather wear, especially since the shops are coming out with new summer inventory. Here are some of the items I’m keeping my eye out for before the winter wraps up:
The vest can be an investment piece in neutral colors or trendy in different cuts. Most wear a vest as part of a career suit ensemble over a button up or for casual over a basic tee. My favorite way to wear the vest is on its own with a simple pair of jeans. To mix it up try a jean vest with trousers. Since vests are often worn over something, you want to make sure whatever style you choose is not to low and covers you in all the appropriate places. You want to be cute and casual, not to revealing.
Another must-have to pair with your summer cut-offs is the tie-waist button up shirt. A collared top is attractive on anyone, any time of year. Make this cool look even cooler for the warm weather by rolling up the sleeves, unbuttoning a bit and tying at the waist. You can find a tie waist top all over this season or just take a collared shirt from your own closet and these simple steps will transform it into a trend. Don’t tie to high, though. The mid-drift is in, but may be too much skin if worn with short shorts.
Sweaters aren’t just meant for the winter season anymore. Start looking for a lightweight, mid-drift sweater to wear on cool summer evenings. Like I just said, a mid-drift and shorts may be too much in some situations, but jean cut-offs and a short sweater are adorable as a cover-up on the beach. Otherwise, pair with high waisted pants or a flowy maxi skirt.
Any of these top options are alternatives to the expected tanks and tees. Start looking for these and other special summer styles so your wardrobe is ready for the new season.









East Coast Chic (ECC) began as a fashion blog in 2010. I created ECC because the diversity of style on the East Coast is inspirational and endless. ECC allows me to share my favorite fashion thoughts and spots from my headquarters in Washington, DC, as well as other trend setting states along the East Coast and beyond. 
