How can I 'dress' my legs in summer??

[PollFlanders]

Right, so the problems are I have chunky calves (thighs even worse but easier to cover) and am horridly hairy so whatever hair removal I use they always look rubbish. I get hot very easily (losing weight made no difference to that, blast). Easy to dress in winter, opaque tights, done and dusted. And I do like wearing dresses, they suit me. What can I wear in summer that is reasonably smart? Not City Law Firm smart but better than linen trousers/maxi dress(often rather 'booby' I find) or jeans? Any suggestions?

[TheOriginalFAB]

I am similar in that I have fat calves and really want to wear dresses but I think I look awful.

[dexter73]

I bet no-one even notices your calves. I can't say that I look at anyones!

[HouseOfBamboo]

Mine are similar I think.

Waxing has to be the best option, esp in summer. Follow with as much natural tanning as you can muster the energy for - otherwise avoid the stinky fake tan and go straight for those new make-up type ones.

Nice long swingy skirt to just above ankle is good I find. And a nice chunky pair of sandals with a slight heel.

[HugoFirst]

a frill maybe?

[HouseOfBamboo]

ps - I'm not a style guru. The clothes I have described are probably horribly unfashionable. I'm just very experienced in having Legs That Must Be Hidden.

[PollFlanders]

HugoFirst, ha, yes, a 2 foot frill.

I know I need to assume a 'nobody else is looking and they don't care anyway' attitude. But I can see them and they look flippin' ugly. Mind, if it rains all summer again it won't be too much of a problem (secretly hopes this is the case).

[PollFlanders]

Just realised I now sound like I have a major body-image problem and need counselling to leave the house. It's not quite that bad.

[MilliONaire]

PollFlanders,
I too have 'leg issues' in summer! I am very pale, never, ever get a natural tan, and I develped a hale and hearty varicous vain on the back of one calf during pregancy - over all - not good!

I have discovered that fine leggings or footless tights are my friends during summer! I can now wear all the short dresses & skirts I desire & the majority of my legs are hidden from view. I often wear them in navy or grey so not as harsh as black and they look good with my summer wardrobe, at least I have had compliments!

With a very light top (or just a summer dress) and open toe sandals (using fale tan on the legs and feet & painted toenails & pedicure) I can now at last face summer again!!! And it is not as hot (temperature wise) as you would think! It is very hot in every other way

[wideawakenurse]

Have a look at some capri pants, like these. They can look pretty smart with a low heel.

Although agree with Dexter that no one really looks at calves!

[PollFlanders]

Thankee for the ideas ladies.

Wideawakenurse, capri indeed v smart and great on some people. But my appendages need a mahoosive flare to balance out the enormous tree trunk at the top.

MilliONaire, yes I like that idea. Have always assumed it would be too hot. Doesn't help for work though does it, if it's not that sort of place?