4 Free Ways to Upgrade Your Summer Style

4 Free Ways to Upgrade Your Summer Style

Linen shirt, $69.50 / $49.99 by J.Crew

Linen shirt, $69.50 / $49.99 by J.Crew

4 Free Ways to Upgrade Your Summer Style

Summertime ... and the living is easy. You don't have to sweat your style much when you can't stop yourself from literally sweating whenever you step outside. Of course, that doesn't mean you can't update your outfit or take your look to the next level. Here are four simple and cost-free ways to switch up your style and look better in the months ahead.

1

Embrace cut-offs.
If you've got some pieces that you're not wearing all that much, take some scissors to them. Make a band collar shirt by cutting off the collar of a button down. Cut off the ends of your jeans to the perfect length and let the hem fray. Sweat pants too long? Turn them into shorts. Make a short sleeve sweatshirt by snipping off the sleeves. The results aren't perfect, but that's the point.

Embrace cut-offs.
If you've got some pieces that you're not wearing all that much, take some scissors to them. Make a band collar shirt by cutting off the collar of a button down. Cut off the ends of your jeans to the perfect length and let the hem fray. Sweat pants too long? Turn them into shorts. Make a short sleeve sweatshirt by snipping off the sleeves. The results aren't perfect, but that's the point.

2

Roll your sleeves.
Take a page out of Ryan Gosling's playbook and start rolling your sleeves. There are plenty of different rolls to choose from, from the simple forearm roll to the artful cuff above your elbow. Even T-shirt sleeves can be rolled to accentuate your biceps and add some subtle style to an otherwise simple shirt.

3

Tie one on. When it's hot and humid out, the last thing you want to put on is another layer of clothes. But that doesn't mean you can't add some texture and pattern to your kit. Tie a flannel shirt around your waist (like Kendrick Lamar here) or knot a bandana loosely around your neck (as seen in the latest Rivay look book). The key with both is to keep the rest of your look simple by wearing a solid shirt.

4

Get a tan.

Put simply—those lighter colors we all tend to wear during the summer look better on skin that's more golden than pasty. You don't have to roast yourself in the sun, just make sure you're getting enough time outside to get a little color on your arms, legs and face. Eat lunch outside and get out on your bike this weekend.

Keep Shoes Looking Sharp

Every few weeks, toss your canvas sneakers into the washing machine. It keeps them looking clean and smelling fresh.