A Need for Tweed

For the past couple of seasons, lots of designers and labels have been extending the life of fabrics and textiles by taking them way beyond their “normal” seasons. For instance, we are still seeing quite a bit of leather in the fashion world, and lightweight wool like cashmere can be worn all year long. One fabric that is still making the pages of magazines and strolling the catwalks, although the temperature is rising, is tweed.

Wearing tweed in warm weather isn’t a completely new idea; some fashionistas have been doing it for years, but it seems to
have become more common and mainstream. I have to admit I have been guilty of putting all of my tweed away the minute the sun comes out on a regular basis. You can definitely go ahead and put most of it away, like blazers, trousers and of course coats, but if you already own them, you can still wear pieces like sheath dresses, skirts, and Chanel-style jackets, especially if they are lightweight wools or blended with other textiles.

Traditionally, tweed is an all-wool textile, but you can also find lightweight wool blends and other fabrics all year long, like linen and cotton that have been woven to display a tweed effect. If you decide to work this very chic trend for warm weather, definitely look for lighter, brighter colors and lightweight fabrics.

As far as style goes, you do want to go retro. Look for sleeveless shift and sheath dresses, fitted feminine tops, walking shorts, pencil and miniskirts. A key item you definitely want to add to your wardrobe would be the classic Chanel-style jacket. It works alone for both retro and contemporary looks, but you can pair it with other tweed separates to create outfits that are perfect for work or dressing up for ladylike occasions. You may feel a bit self-conscious if you’re a hardcore seasonal dresser, but just open any high fashion magazine or Google your favorite fashion icon and you will find you’re working a timeless fashion that has a bit of the “ladies that lunch” look.

Pair your tweed pieces with other fabrics like cotton, linen, denim, and even leather. A timeless outfit idea is to toss a tweed jacket over a pair of jeans and a tank, then add a pair of fabulous shoes for an instant European chic look.

If you just can’t bring yourself to work this typically winter fabric, check out one of Chanel’s summer tweed handbags for a bit of warm weather inspiration. I can guarantee you will have a change of heart. It may be out of your price range, but it will change your idea about your need for tweed this summer.