Image courtesy of Hearst Digital Media: Sweet

Image courtesy of Hearst Digital Media: Sweet

The Key to Playing It Cool This Summer

Sweet | May 2016

Is one modest, beautiful fabric.

Crisp and fresh and perfect in a button-down or shirtdress silhouette, cotton poplin is nothing less than the foundation to any modern wardrobe. But there’s far more to this versatile fabric than utility. This season, labels from Temperley London to Tome are reimagining the potential of the material. They’re adding embroidery and pleats, ruffles, and flounces: if there is some embellishment to be done, they’ve done it. The result is a whole new range of styles in cotton poplin, ones that are as feminine as they are fashion-forward.

Here, we present all the cotton poplin pieces you could possibly need to see you through every summer mood. And when a heat wave does strike, you’ll be ready.

Romantic

Explore the feminine side of cotton poplin with a combination of sweetness and freshness.

Photograph courtesy of Net-A-Porter

Photograph courtesy of Net-A-Porter

Classic

Nothing says timeless like relaxed pieces that can be dressed up or down. Grab one and experiment!

Photograph courtesy of Everlane

Photograph courtesy of Everlane

Modern

This cutting-edge look radiates an air of understated cool. We particularly love the unexpected details and proportions.

Photograph courtesy of The Outnet

Photograph courtesy of The Outnet

Nautical

OK, so you don’t own a boat. Not to worry. Make a nautical splash in breezy sailor blouses and cropped culottes.

Photograph courtesy of Saks Off Fifth

Photograph courtesy of Saks Off Fifth