Weather trends give Florida women a different set of fashion trends than the other states.
Staples for Minnesotans might include a heavy coat or for Oklahomans might include some rain boots. Floridians need light-weight transitional pieces that can work from season to season.
Add the following items to your closet for a well-rounded wardrobe that works in Florida. Be warned, it's no accident many of these staples pair well together.
1. Duster cardigan
Leather jackets are cooler than cool, but temperaturewise, hotter than hot. A neutral-colored duster cardigan is a perfect compromise.
In case you’re unfamiliar with the term, a duster-style cardigan is long (as if dusting the floor). What I like about this piece versus a traditional cardigan is its high-fashion appeal. It’s a chic statement piece that manages to go with everything. A kimono is another nice alternative to a traditional cardigan.
This piece is perfect for fall and winter and makes an excellent cover-up for an evening stroll on the beach. Keep in mind, most duster cardigans don’t actually touch the ground.
Pair it with: Solid-colored or graphic T-shirt French tucked into dark-wash skinny jeans with ankle boots.
2. Ankle boots
There is nothing quite like trapping sweat between your legs and the leather of mid-calf or thigh-high boots. Ankle boots are much more breathable.
Ankle boots are ideal for Florida women because they go with dresses and skirts or denim. Because of the popularity of this boot style in recent years, you can find them in many colors and styles. I love a pop of red or blue in an ankle boot.
Pair it with: Three-quarter-sleeve plain or graphic T-shirt, mini-skirt and light-wash denim jacket.
3. Paperbag shorts
If you’re comfortable baring your legs, paperbag-style shorts are a must.
Paperbag shorts are an elastic style of shorts in which a waist tie cinches the top like a paper bag. It’s a playful style that can look professional or youthful.
This is a staple because the elastic waist makes them comfortable for running errands on a hot day but, again, super breathable. Typically, these shorts are made in a light cotton or linen fabric, providing optimal comfort.
Pair it with: Plain tank top or solid-colored blouse and slip-ons.
4. Shift dress
Unfitted shift dresses are an obvious choice for Florida women.
In the fall, they can work with boots and a cardigan. In the summer, they can work with sandals.
The shift dress doesn’t cling to your body, so it won’t make you overheat. And you can wear these to work or the beach.
Pair it with: Bold jewelry and sandals.
5. Slides
Sneakers don’t mix well with sand, and sand is everywhere.
Slides are the perfect style of shoe for Floridians. They not only leave your feet open to breathe, but also can slide on and off at the beach.
Pair it with: White T-shirt, denim button-down and shorts or black denim or slacks and a black T-shirt.
6. Circle skirt
There are many styles of circle skirts — miniskirts, midiskirts, 1950s skirts — but the end result is the same. The skirt flows outward to create a circle.
This style is airy and flowy, two concepts perfect for Florida.
If you don’t already own one, I highly recommend purchasing one in black or navy.
Pair it with: Three-quarter-sleeve top and pumps.
7. Ankle-length trousers
A nice pair of ankle-length trousers can pair well with any style of top — strapless, tank top, T-shirt, turtleneck — anything.
Shoes are the same. Trousers can go with flats or heels, and with today’s trends, even tennis shoes. Add a pair of black or gray ankle-length trousers to your wardrobe, or try a pattern such as gingham.
Pair it with: Tank top, blazer and slides.
8. Crossbody handbag
A purse with a long strap is ideal for work or a walk on the beach.
This purse style comes in teeny tiny sizes or suitcase sizes. Brands now even carry handbags with handles and a long strap attached, too.
Whatever your preferred handbag, make sure you own at least one with a long strap.
Pair it with: Duster cardigan, button-down, paperbag shorts and slides.
9. Open-toed bootie
I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it again. Your feet need to breathe.
An open-toed bootie is the perfect way to embrace fall and winter trends without suffocating your toes. And they basically match outfits the same way a closed-toe bootie would.
Consider a pair in black, gray or nude for optimal matchability.
Pair it with: Shirt dress and clutch.
10. Bright-colored sunglasses
It would be hard to live in the Sunshine State without sunglasses. But now it’s time to consider brightly colored shades.
Whether you choose to have red rims or red lenses, colored sunglasses are the perfect opportunity for a pop of color with any outfit. I used red as an example, but any color can work.
At least one pair of sunglasses in your collection should feature a vibrant-colored frame or lenses.
Pair it with: Swimsuit and kimono or cover-up.
