By Miranda Yu
Why choose silk over more common textiles like cotton, wool or linen? For one, it's an extremely luxrious fabric that is both versatile and durable. Secondly, silk is strong and possesses some great traits such as: being breatheable, lightwight and a natural luster.
A long-standing product in China, the luxurious fabric is made from the unspun cocoons of silkworms. In the Han dynasty, it was so sought after that the entire trade systems was developed (The Silk Road) from China to Rome, enabling its cultural diffusion from East to West. Traditionally, it was only worn by the ruling class and the extremely wealthy – not just in China, but all over Euroasia. In the 1950s, however, fashion designers embraced silk as a textile for everyday wear, not just for special occasions, bringing it into the mainstream.
While good quality silk can be worn all year round, it's especially great in the summer; it's light, dirt resistant, it lets skin breathe and it's extremely comfortable. If you still aren't convinced, then keep in mind it holds color wonderfully, making it the perfect addition to your summer wardrobe, especially for those who love bold colors and bright prints.
Fitted silk can be a real head-turner, but during the warmer months, it's best to opt for something with a relaxed, casual fit. Wrap dresses, flowing tunics and billowy silk trousers are your friend this season. Silks also come in a host of different textures, so if you're looking for somehting with a smooth, reflective finish, go for habotai or charmeuse silk. For those who stray away from the shine, keep an eye out for a vibrant crepe de chine.
Weekend flair: Go for a floral printed silk shirt with white shorts. Pair with strappy leather sandals, bright lipstick and sunglasses for a fun, poppy look.
Lunch chic: Break out those wide-legged cropped trousers, coupled with a tucked-in silk cami. A nice, bold shade of lipstick and sandals with a chunky heel will bring the whole outfit together.
Office: Try a plain, flowing silk button down with a pair of form-fitted black trousers and peep-toe heels. Carry an over-sized leather tote to complete the look and take you from work to wherever you're headed next.
Dinner with an edge: A chic, maxi silk slip dress will speak for itself. With a black leather clutch in hand and matching black, strappy heels, you're all set for a night out that screams of summer.
Petite shapes: Go for a short slip dress with a scoop neck, elongating your silhouette. This can easily be layered with a chunky sweater if the weather turns chilly.
Pear shapes: Opt for a loose-fitting V-neck silk blouse with three-quarter length sleeves. Tucked into a high-waisted pencil skirt, you'll look great showing off your figure.
Busty women: A silk wrap dress will really bring our your gorgeous curves. Look for one with an empire waist and a hem that falls just above your knees. For something longer, a maxi length with a dramatic side-split will show off those legs of yours.
Tall shapes: A pair of printed silk pants will look great with any plain, fitted, sleeveless top. Cool and casual, this look will really emphasize your long legs.
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