Dress up a racerback!

It’s too hot outside, so a lightweight cotton racerback tank is ideal, but I’m not trying to look like I’m going to a hoedown, Coachella or the beach every time I reach for one! Whenever I work with clients I talk about balancing the style of your pieces. For example, I wouldn't wear a cowboy hat and cowboy boots (but that's just me). The best outfits combine a little bit of this and a little bit of that. For me, it's typically something casual, something chic, something boho and a little slice of tomboy. 

The racerback is the perfect outfit starting point because it is so casual that by pairing it with anything dressier you've got yourself a balanced chic outfit! I dressed up a racerback in three intentional ways, so let’s walk through my styling choices and see what you think!

The best racerback tank

Here I’m wearing a chartreuse racerback from Zara, but my absolute favorite is the one by Citizens of Humanity. They aren’t cheap, but the fabric is sturdy, the color doesn’t fade over time and the shape remains. You must try!

Wide leg linen pants

There is no piece more elegant summer piece than a wide leg trouser, but that doesn’t mean we only save them for special occasions or work. Initially I was only wearing mine out to dinner with heels, but now I am balancing them with a simple racerback , slides and a textured summer knit for errands around town or a low key lunch with pals. I found a pair last spring and bought them in 3 different colors!

Mini skirt

Hemlines are getting shorter these days, but that doesn’t mean the whole look needs to lean sexy. Bring a mini skirt into your everyday wardrobe by styling it with a racerback and flats. Pairing a mini with more casual pieces makes it feel more wearable and less “young”. Pro tip: I like to avoid feeling so exposed in a mini by wearing commando boy short undies underneath. Or even opt for a skort!

Bubble skirt

Volume is also very of the moment, so I have really taken to the bubble skirt to add some volume on the bottom to balance out my bigger shoulders. Most people feel better balancing volume with something more fitted and a racerback tank does the trick here.

Accessorize with darker colors

Whenever I am trying to make the overall outfit feel elevated I choose accessories that are in a darker color. Lately, it’s been navy, oxblood or black. This immediately dresses up the look with minimal effort!