How to stay cool and look “edgy” at the same time.

dark fashion blogger, Aesthetcicontradiction

This year’s heat-wave has gifted uncharacteristically-warm summers to many places around the world, our normally rainy Manchester among them. It got me looking back on past times I had experienced warm weather and how I struggled to stay true to my style and comfortable at the same time.

Dark style blogger from Manchester, UK

I think my problem in the past was that I relied too heavily on “signature items” and thought I needed to wear them all year round to be “me”. There was also an element of feeling like I was “selling out” if I gave up an item that defined my style, in favour of something more weather appropriate. I remember there was a year when I went to the beach in leather army boots because they were the only type of footwear I considered acceptable at the time.

Grown up goth, summer style

I now feel confident enough in my style to change things up a bit. I can find a version of every type of clothing or footwear that can be made to fit my style so I no longer have items I “don’t wear”. Also, I’ve evolved beyond that and can now also wear items that don’t fit my style as such, without feeling like I’m losing my identity.

Alternative style for adults

On this occasion, we were heading to a friend’s birthday party. I didn’t have long to get ready and I wanted to spend most of that time on my makeup so I needed a really simple outfit that I could just throw on. I decided on this embellished leotard from Zara (I try not to buy much from the high street, but occasionally I find a piece I love) and paired it with a fitted, black jersey skirt with a slit up one side and roucheing across the hips. The cut and fabrics of both items were perfect for the warm weather and I really enjoyed the walk in the evening sun.

Edgy fashion blogger, AestheticContradiction

As an extra step to stay cool and to add more detail to my relatively simple outfit, I decided on this braids and pun hairstyle. It’s a variation on two hairstyles I do a lot, but instead of a top knot, I opted for a fanned bun, paired with a Dutch braid down each side.

You may also notice that I’m wearing sandals here, I found a pair I really liked about 5 years ago and they are still going strong!

Edgy summer style

 

OUTFIT:

Embellished bodysuit: Zara

Jersey skirt: eBay

Sandals and bra: Topshop

Sunglasses: H&M

Earrings: Dixi

 

Photography by Richard Ayres

22 Comments

  1. Fibi Drese 4th September 2018 / 3:12 pm

    I love your outfit and style. It really suit and the eyeshadow are really pretty.

  2. Swati 3rd September 2018 / 8:46 pm

    Three of my favourite brands, Topshop, Zara and H&M. Great outfit and loves the ease with which you carry yourself

  3. Nina Nichols 3rd September 2018 / 8:28 pm

    Stunningly beautiful and exudes a persona of class and style. Love the gowns!

  4. Meygan @ AllTheRooms 3rd September 2018 / 7:51 pm

    I really love your look, especially the lipstick! You’re totally rockin’ it.

  5. charu sharma 3rd September 2018 / 5:53 pm

    I just loved your makeup. Worth all the effort! Since I am a shoe lover, I couldn’t help but notice those awesome gladiators. The best part was “I’ve evolved beyond that and can now also wear items that don’t fit my style as such, without feeling like I’m losing my identity.

  6. Blair Villanueva 3rd September 2018 / 5:27 am

    I like your dress, it looks alluring and chic.

  7. Jeferson 2nd September 2018 / 5:36 pm

    Edgy yet comfortable…. I like your style….. I think comfort is the key.. . It never goes out of style….

  8. Linh 2nd September 2018 / 10:28 am

    So cool! Your outfit looks fancy. I would love to try out this style!

  9. Sheena Moncatar 2nd September 2018 / 6:56 am

    Way to go! Such a wonderful narrative of your fashion evolution. Indeed we are what we were and sometimes we tend to compromise comfort over looks. Am glad you always take time to analyze everything up while dressing up! Thanks for such a wonderful post.

  10. Vaishali 1st September 2018 / 10:42 pm

    I love this outfit. Even color black looks cool in this one

  11. Sreekar 1st September 2018 / 7:00 am

    My wife is a huge fan of your blog and she loved this posts. She says thanks!

  12. prabashi 1st September 2018 / 5:42 am

    lol wearing boots to the beach, thats dope. I love that style of yours. I wish if i was more comfy like you with my body

  13. Andrew 31st August 2018 / 9:12 pm

    Good Tips and amazing picture!
    About Outfit ? OMG! You looks beautiful!

  14. Monidipa Dutta 31st August 2018 / 2:45 pm

    I totally love your outfit. This look suits you so well…

  15. Bunmies Healthy Choices 31st August 2018 / 5:03 am

    Love your hair style and outfit. Thanks for sharing.

  16. Cassie 31st August 2018 / 2:05 am

    I completely love your outfit

  17. Juli 30th August 2018 / 5:23 pm

    I think your hairstyle bring off that cool vibe to add with the outfit.

  18. kostas mandilaris 30th August 2018 / 4:07 pm

    Hey Stacey!

    I think you have definitely evolved in style from what I have seen. I think the people that know you and are around you know your “signature style” and there is no risk of selling out. The moment I look at you I know you are something special. From the style, the earrings, the look (with a little don’t mess with me touch).

    You would feel at home in Sweden!

    Best,
    Kostas

  19. Melissa 30th August 2018 / 3:59 pm

    I don’t think I am either cool or edgy. 🙂

  20. Jan R 24th August 2018 / 9:02 am

    Love this outfit. I wish my hair would go like that.

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