You can never go wrong with a white tee, denim shorts, and sandals when the sun is shining bright. But every so often, it pays to be playful with clothes and throw in funky patterns and vibrant hues into the mix. As we are right in the middle of the season of picnics, popsicles, and pools, there couldn’t be a better time to experiment with maximalism. Here are our top picks for the coolest maximalist summer wear striking enough to beat the heat.
READ: Jos Mundo builds an artistic and tropical world that is distinctly Filipino
Lively but timeless topsSummer calls for flashy pieces perfect for backyard barbecues or strolling by the beach. These fun and soft ruffles add dimension to familiar silhouettes—button-down and off-shoulder flutter-sleeved tops—without sacrificing the need to stay cool in the warm weather.
Our picks: the Sandbox shirt from HA.MU, the Inkblot appliqué open-collar shirt from nicolò, and the Roma top from Yong Studio.
The HA.MU Sandbox Shirt | Photo from @_ha.mu_/Instagram
Yong Studio’s Roma Top
The Inkblot Appliqué Open-Collar Shirt (Yellow) from nicolò
Breezy bottoms
Wardrobe decisions often boil down to practicality. Should we opt for a mini skirt for the humidity or a full-leg cover-up to shield against the radiant sun? Whether you want to keep it casual or spice up your daily wear, perhaps a pair of convertible short-pants should do the trick.
Our picks: Tapis at Saya Green from Yssa Inumerable, Pista wrap skirt from Guppy PH, and Double Trouble pants from Nin and Yang.
Tapis at Saya (Green) from Yssa Inumerable
Double Trouble Pants from Nin and Yang
READ: Celebrate skin confidence and the power of a healthy glow with DMark Beauty
Chic by the coastThe sandy beaches are the perfect backdrop for a splash of color. These patterns are flashy but easy on the eyes. A touch of bikini frill and a spectrum of shades make for a terrific by-the-pool ensemble.
Our picks: Heart Swim from TOQA, Tessa ruffled cheeky bottoms from Blackbough Swim, and Tropic violet short-length swim shorts from Guppy PH.
Heart Swim from TOQA
Tropic violet short-length swim shorts from Guppy PH
Tessa ruffled cheeky bottoms from Blackbough Swim
Keep your crown cool
If you want a break from baseball caps and bucket hats, there is still a variety of headwear to choose from. A subtly bold headband or even a stylish crown is perfect for keeping your ponytail in place.
Our picks: the Empress Bambi headband from Mich Dulce, the Encanta fairy crown from Stone River PH, and Ham’s birthday crown from HA.MU.
Empress Bambi headband from Mich Dulce
Ham’s birthday crown from HA.MU
Encanta fairy crown from Stone River PH
Glamorous overwear garments
Maximalism is also characterized by layering—something we outright avoid in such a warm climate. The combinations are endless and are sure to become favorite closet staples even after the sizzling season passes.
Our picks: the Kumbira vest from Anthill Markets, the Kumpol bib from Carl Jan Cruz, and the 4-way top fatigue kantarines from Rags2Riches.
4-way top fatigue kantarines from Rags2Riches
Kumpol bib from Carl Jan Cruz
Kumbira vest from Anthill Markets
Never forget to accessorize
A simple set of earrings could upgrade an outfit tenfold. Multipurpose additions are a must. Don’t limit your imagination with these little trinkets of wonder—a belt is only a belt if you want it to be. If you’re heading out, might as well go all out.
Our picks: Cherry earrings from Elska Atelier, a Color pop cord belt from ATOZ, and ASTRA from Baobab Eyewear.
Color pop cord belt from ATOZ
Cherry earrings from Elska Atelier
ASTRA from Baobab Eyewear
Bring a bag
Rattan and waterproof pouches are mandatory for vacations and sporty exhibitions. These have the capacity to carry all your essentials and not only make it to the ‘gram but also catch the attention of those with a good eye.
Our picks: the Cord canvas bag from ATOZ, the Takatak bag from Zarah Juan, the Mini beach bag from TOQA, and the Anthurium mini from ARANÁZ.
Anthurium mini from ARANÁZ
Cord canvas bag from ATOZ
Takatak bag from Zarah Juan
Cop a pair of kicks
Cute shoes don’t always mean muted basics. A few patches of innovative stitchwork and unlikely color schemes are all it takes to put together a picture-perfect outfit.
Our picks: the Liliana Manahan from Lakatbet199, the Parang bakya from Jos Mundo, the Marikina Mule in Circus from Jos Mundo, and Retashoes sandals from Riotaso.
Liliana Manahan from Lakat
Marikina Mule in Circus from Jos Mundo
Retashoes sandals from Riotaso