Summer: Ready, Set, Go!

There's something about the seasonal change into summer that instantly raises your body's dopamine levels. Maybe it's due to the seemingly endless sunny days, an upcoming vacation, BBQ gatherings, or the excitement of a fresh wardrobe - let's just say it's a combination of everything. Customize your closet and home for the summer season with quality items waiting to fill your cart.

 

Ladies, ease into the weather changeover with styling updates designed for versatility. From floral and abstract-printed sleeveless dresses and flowy skirts by Bold Elements and St. John's Bay to a.n.a crochet tops or graphic t-shirts- each premium piece is built to last through any trend and beyond the current season. 

 

Lightweight denim, chino shorts, tennis core pieces, pullover collared tops, and pleated mini skirts provide ultimate breathability for casual days. 

 

However, when a wedding, graduation, or other formal occasion is on the calendar, choose suiting separates and blouses from Worthington or Liz Claiborne, made with linen, cotton, and mesh blended with stretch fabric for added comfort.

 

With cool patterns and open-knitwork designs, it's easy to understand why a camp collar shirt is said to be the center of men's summer styling. It has the manners of a button-down but is more relaxed than a polo, and thanks to brands like Cubavera and mutual weave, the quality always remains at a premium level. 

 

But wait, you need bottoms to wear it with —unless you're a cartoon character. So, pull on a pair of pants, chino shorts, or jeans from Stylus or Arizona Jeans Co. for a dressed-down look. Enhance your t-shirt collection with essential crew or V-neck styles in solid hues or prints that can easily be layered under a suit from J. Ferrar or Stafford as a cool, tailored alternative to a classic long-sleeve shirt. 

 

Although you may not want to pry your feet out of your favorite boots, the heat has other thoughts that lead to boosting your summer footwear collection with strappy sandals, open-toe heeled mules, and canvas sneakers. The embellished designs, vibrant colors, and intricate details help to reimagine your looks. And, fellas, yes, a casual slide sandal is extremely comfortable — especially one with a memory foam footbed — but they aren't made for every outfit. So, try a sleek pair of loafers, slip-on shoes, or a leather sandal to move into your day with endless style and minimal effort. 

 

Complete your attire with key accouterments, such as wide-brim hats, fedoras, and baseball caps that serve as sun shields or a chic pair of sunglasses to protect you from harmful rays. And statement rings, chain necklaces, ankle bracelets, brooches, and tie and lapel pins effortlessly highlight your stylistic vision.

 

So, you've sent out the invitation, and the day is quickly approaching. But before the guests arrive, it's time to turn your home into a summer oasis, ready for family, friends, laughs, and BBQs. Start by adding small touches to welcome them into your space with a beautiful floral wreath, a standing porch sign, and a doormat with a fun slogan. 

 

For the backyard or patio, set the scene with hanging lanterns or garden lights that complement the matching outdoor dining furniture. Place plush seat cushions crafted in bold hues or featuring tropical patterns to line each chair for maximum comfort.

 

Set a beautiful tablescape with beautiful plates, serving trays, and tumblers from Distant Lands or Turquoise Sun to fill with delicious dishes and tasty drinks. 

 

After the sunset, take the party inside and reveal your summertime décor. If making a decision is difficult, stress less by mixing and matching neutral tones and patterns with playful colors as you recreate your space, whether for the living room, dining room, bedroom, bathroom, or hallway. 

 

There are infinite possibilities to redefine your wardrobe and home for the summer without feeling as if you're adding to the already packed storage pile after the season ends. Trendy pieces are great additions, but seek to keep your style inclusive and timeless. With an array of options to curate your space and closet, JCPenney will always be your go-to place for quality and wallet-friendly designs.