Kate Moss enjoys a carnival ride in an off-shoulder top, shorts and boots.
I'm taking several trips this summer to theme parks in Southern California. I have such a hard time finding bottoms that will both keep me cool and cover up my thighs! Can you help me find some cute outfits for a girl in her early 20's that will beat the heat and stay modest while climbing onto and off of rides? —Annie O.
Theme parks, carnivals and amusement parks aren't exactly known as havens of great style—short-shorts and flip-flops often abound—but that doesn't mean you can't stay cool, comfortable and stylish in your own right. Opt for lightweight fabrics, lots of sunscreen, cool plastic shades that you won't mind losing or breaking, and a tiny cross-body bag for carrying a few essentials, hands-free. Avoid too much jewelry (especially earrings, which can stab your neck while you're being jostled on big rollercoasters), big belts (these get in the way of the harnesses on many rides), white tops (these become see-through on water-rides) and loose shoes (you'll risk losing them on rides that allow your legs to dangle freely.)
Here are three affordable outfit ideas to help get you started!