Corduroy often gets roped in as a cold-weather staple due to its soft, velvety texture yet warm appeal. But why limit its charm to just the winter months? This underrated fabric is experiencing a stylish resurgence, and with a little creativity, it can be seamlessly incorporated into your summer wardrobe.
If your memories of corduroy take you back to your younger days of unflattering bell bottoms you might have been forced to wear, we’re here to make corduroy cool again — even in Summer.
1. Choose a lighter corduroy
Corduroy comes in different weights. For summer, a lightweight corduroy can be your best friend. Opt for thinner wale (the ridges in corduroy) fabrics that allow for better breathability. These lighter versions feel airy and won’t weigh you down, making them ideal for warmer weather.
We’re loving a corduroy mini and midi skirt that can also transition into the cooler months. Remember to layer.
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2. Choose summer-coded colours
One of the quickest ways to make corduroy summer-ready is by focusing on the colour palette. Swap out the deep, moody tones like burgundy, navy, and forest green for bright, sun-kissed shades. Think pastel pinks, soft yellows, creamy whites, and sage greens. These colours keep the fabric feeling fresh and seasonally appropriate.
3. Go for breezy silhouettes
Say goodbye to heavy jackets and structured trousers, and hello to breezy shapes! Corduroy’s texture shines in loose, flowy silhouettes like:
- Skirts: Perfectly paired with a lightweight tank or crop top.
- Shorts: Corduroy shorts offer a playful nod to retro styles while keeping things cool.
- Oversized shirts: Wear an oversized corduroy shirt as a beach cover-up or layer it over a sundress for an easy, chic vibe.
4. Pair with summer staples
The secret to balancing corduroy’s cozy texture with summer’s breezy vibe lies in the pairing. Combine corduroy pieces with classic summer fabrics like linen, cotton, and light knits. For example:
- A pair of high-waisted corduroy shorts with a crisp white linen button-up.
- A pastel corduroy mini skirt styled with a ribbed tank top and strappy sandals.
- A cropped corduroy jacket thrown over a flowy maxi dress during cooler summer evenings.
5. Play with accessories
Add summer-ready accessories to your corduroy looks to create a fun, seasonal contrast. A straw hat, oversized sunglasses, or a woven bag can instantly transform the heavier texture into a sunny statement. Complete the look with sandals or espadrilles for an effortlessly chic finish.
6. Think transitional moments
Corduroy is perfect for those in-between moments when summer days start with a chill and end in warmth. Opt for pieces like cropped corduroy jackets or vests that you can layer and remove as the temperature rises.
7. Experiment with patterns
For an extra touch of summer, choose corduroy pieces with playful patterns like florals or stripes. These prints can add a vibrant and whimsical edge, making the fabric feel more seasonal.
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Don’t let corduroy’s winter reputation hold you back from embracing its charm year-round.
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