Find a time to dress up!

We spent a lot of time close to home this summer as I’m sure many of you did. But we also found opportunities to enjoy the summer sun. It’s important especially now to find time to celebrate in our own way. And maybe dressing up will help you feel a little more special… I know it does for me.

One of my favorite summer dresses which I did manage to wear once this summer is now on sale! This dress is easy, flattering, comfortable and lightweight for a hot summer. (See photo.) This is the Joie Krystina B Cotton Dress.

Joie has been a favorite brand of mine for some time. They are classic but trendy, simple but elegant, and always flattering. Joie is a great go-to for a staple piece. Whether it’s a sweater, top or a dress, Joie will have a piece for the season that will fill your wardrobe hole. And now those pieces are on sale! See a few of my favorites below.

While I know these are incredibly challenging times, I hope you find your opportunity to dress up and celebrate!

Clinging to Summer!

I will admit that I am desperately clinging to what remains of summer. This is my absolute favorite season and I have been enjoying the outdoors as much as I can. Here in New England, we have had our share of heat waves this season. We haven’t had enough rain but lots of warmth, sun and high temps.

I have found myself checking the weather before I get dressed in the morning. When the temps are in the 90s or close to, it’s hard to put on anything more than a sundress. I also love the look and feel of a long loose sundress. So warmer temps are my excuse to put them to good use.

Fortunately, summer styles are still in stock at most retailers (even if you’re starting to see fall styles included in new arrivals). With less people shopping in person, inventory is still available and there are plenty of sales to be had, especially with the upcoming Labor Day Holiday. This is a great opportunity to pick up timeless summer styles.

I’ve personally always had luck finding great summer styles at Anthropologie. They always curate a stylish selection of summer dresses that are flattering and versatile. Below I’ve included pictures of two of Anthropologie dresses which I have purchased over the last few years. I have found timeless pieces in their collections which I can wear from one summer to the next!

The first image below is a versatile maxi dress that I can dress up or down for almost ANY occasion. The second image is a slightly more formal style with a high low hem line. Both items are incredibly comfortable and lightweight. These dresses are exactly what the summer heat calls for!

Below I have included a few more highlights from the current Anthropologie collection. Whatever retailer you choose, look for lightweight fabrics in styles that flatter your body type. Keep silhouettes simple in colors that complement your skin tone. You’ll always be most comfortable in clothes that are fit for YOU.

Zuly Lace Tiered Midi Dress

Marya Tiered Maxi Dress

Zenia Mini Dress

Feliza Tiered Midi Dress

Geneva Maxi Dress

A different kind of summer still needs a cover-up

It’s going to be a different kind of summer for us, and I imagine for many of you as well. With many camps closed and social distancing regulations in place, we are staying closer to home. For us this will mean logging more pool hours than before. Whether it’s the pool or the beach, or just some time out on your deck or patio, this is the time of year I look for comfy and cute over-ups to get through the day.

Cover ups can come in different styles. From dresses to pants to kimonos, there's an option for every preference. Prints and colors also vary in a wide range of choices. Pick what makes you comfortable and works best for your body type. With so many options we should all be able to find a flattering fit.

Finding the right fit and style is more important that some realize. Bathing suits can bring out some of our worst insecurities. But finding the right cover up can be key to feeling your best. When we are comfortable and feel good about how we look it can change our mood completely. Enjoy your summer break and spend less time stressing about what to wear and how you look by getting the right cover-up from the start.

Playa Lucila Tie Shoulder Dress

J. Crew Open Beach Poncho

J. Crew Eyelet Tunic Dress

J. Crew Tiered Ruffle Maxi Beach Dress

J. Crew Drapey Crinkle-Cotton Beach Pant

Madewell Solid & Striped Embroidered Voile Cover-Up Maxi Dress

Nordstrom Elan Stripe Cover-Up Romper