With summer literally on our doorstep, comes the time many of us dread. Not Christmas, not summer BBQs, not outdoor picnics - but the season of the sleeveless top + bare arms!! Ultimately, I think every woman and body is beautiful - JUST as you are (to quote Mark Darcy from Bridget Jones' Diary!!!) however I've also learnt that sometimes we need to love our bodies in our own time - so in the meantime, here are a few stylish ways to cover up and still keep cool under the scorching heat of summer.

Light Jackets

For the slightly cooler days of summer, a light jacket is a good way to cover up your arms if you're not keen on showing them.

Look for jackets in light cotton that are perfect to pair with a light dress on your way to a night out in town. It's also a good option if you want to make your day outfit a little formal looking in front of your clients.

These cotton sateen jackets come in fun colours with a 3/4 sleeve for summer

The Summer Cardigan

Another option is the good ol' cardi. These comfortable pieces are a lifesaver when you want something to put over your sleeveless shirts and dresses as they are easy to throw on and go!

Look for summer versions in lighter fabrics and knits, or "mesh" style versions for added ventilation.

This lightweight cardi from David Lawrence comes in several colours.

The Bolero

When you literally want just an arm cover up but not an entire jacket or a sweater, try a bolero. It has a nice short sleeved top and being traditionally fitted and snug in style, it's great to show off a little shape.

Boleros are more structured than cardi's and shawls, so they are a great option for more formal events.

Try a bolero / cropped jacket for more formal events

Kimonos

These are amazing and uber stylish pieces that will elevate your outfit any time of the day. There are printed silk kimono's doing the rounds at the moment that look fab whilst covering up the areas you want covered.

Try it with a pair of tapered jeans, cropped pants, even tailored shorts (finish it with wedges to keep it all looking glam). Go from day to night by adding a little bit of bling for the evening.

This gorgeous silk kimono comes in different colours and prints from Zjoosh

Shawls or Poncho

This is the probably the easiest way to cover up this summer without overheating. Shawls or ponchos in a light knit, are easy to throw over a sleeveless dress at a party or over jeans and a tank during a lunch with the girls.

We found a few options from Etsy - although full disclaimer, I haven't seen this in person - but this one does look like a fab summer option!

A loose summer poncho from Etsy

Until next time, stay stylishly happy!