Keep Your Cool & Your Edge As Temperatures Begin To Rise

By Brian Maynor

 

The spring weather is beautiful, but we know it won’t last forever. Pretty soon we’ll have higher temperatures and humidity to contend with, which makes maintaining a cool, calm, professional image that much harder.

Fortunately there are a few ways to beat the heat and you probably already have them in your closet. Here are a few tips to help you avoid the hot mess express all summer long:

 

1.   Take something off. It seems like common sense, but it actually works. When you’re en route to a meeting or destination by simply taking off your jacket or switching out your shoes will make a world of difference in keeping you cool. Just remember to change them out before arriving at your destination.

2.   Take a break. As a general rule I always like to arrive at least fifteen minutes early to any meeting or presentation so I don’t stress about parking and have time to pop into the restroom for a quick refresher. Along with splashing cool water on my face and taming any frizzy hair it gives me a few minutes to calm my nerves and make any last minute preparations. It’s also a good idea to check your teeth, your nails, any makeup you’re wearing and your breath. They are all small details that make a big impression.

3.   Wear the right underwear. For guys that might mean skipping your undershirt. In the summer, it’s just an added layer that will trap in body heat. If you’re worried about sweat stains your blazer will cover those, especially when it’s buttoned. Ladies should look for breathable, moisture wicking fabrics like nylon/spandex blends. They won’t be the sexiest undergarments, but in this situation practicality wins.

4.   Choose the proper fabrics. When it comes to lighter weight garments they not only need to keep you cool, they also need to keep their shape. Also unlined wool suits keep you looking polished but are as light as a second shirt. When it comes to silk, linen and thin cotton they will keep you cool, but don’t preserve their shape well. If you want to incorporate these items look for ones blended with Lycra.

 

Just because it’s hot outside doesn’t mean it’s acceptable to look wilted, sweaty or frazzled. We all have to battle the heat and work a little harder to keep our look pulled together and polished.

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

Click here or on the images below to learn more about the outfit.

 

 

 

 

I am always curious to hear about your weekend wardrobe dilemmas and help make your work wardrobe pull double duty. Email your questions, quandaries and conundrums to [email protected]. Also find each of these storyboards at http://brianmaynor.polyvore.com with links to purchase each item.

 

 

About Brian Maynor

Brian Maynor has built a reputation as one of the leading style coaches in the Southeast and is quickly expanding his eponymous company, BRIAN MAYNOR and his FIND, FLATTER & FLAUNT line of image consulting services. A professional with a fresh, upbeat and down-to-earth personality and boundless creative energy, he works frequently with with local celebrities; Fortune 500 companies and nonprofit organizations; modeling agencies; fashion designers; production companies; record labels; media and individuals. A regular contributor to various fashion blogs and online communities, Brian Maynor is one of the most trusted and recognized style experts in the region, utilizing his education and training as a broadcast journalist to serve as a style lecturer, emcee, and commentator for over a decade. He has appeared at fashion shows, expos, and charity fundraisers, as well as events with big brands like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, Chico’s and Macy’s. His approach is innovative, creative and fashion-forward, balancing fresh, modern styles with classic pieces to keep one’s look grounded. To learn more, visit http://www.brianmaynor.com.