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

May is Full of New Arrivals

The current weather pattern that we’re experiencing in New England makes it difficult to believe that it’s officially May. If I close my eyes, I picture May with blooming flowers, sunny skies and warmer temperatures. While that is not our current reality, retail hasn’t planned for the gloom and cold we’re experiencing. So in stores, it’s May in all it’s glory.

The spring trends are in full force and we’re getting a glimpse of what’s in store for summer. Jumpsuits and rompers everywhere. Lots of floral prints still available as well as bright bold patterns. Details are everything. We’re seeing ruffles, peplum, fringe and embroidery in many key pieces this season. We’re also seeing lots of belts on display.

If you’re unsure of how to incorporate these trends into your wardrobe, start with personal preference. What would you be comfortable wearing? What goes well with what you currently have in your closet? Trends seems to come full circle so you may already have pieces that match this season’s trends.

My suggestion would be to find a statement piece that you could work with for multiple occasions. A versatile piece is key to purchasing something trendy. Take for example the tiered maxi dress in blue stripe pictured below. This maxi dress can be dressed up for dinner out or worn with flat sandals for lunch with your best friend. Where else are you going? The farmers market, Sunday brunch, drinks with friends, afternoon tea? I always feel that I’m more likely to be out and about in warmer temps and my wardrobe reflects that. Figure out what occasions or events you may have that you would need clothes for. Do you go to dinner/drinks with friends and sit outside? Do you meet friends for lunch? Do you go to events at your kids school or daycare? Do you attend fundraising events? All these things will play into the type of wardrobe you need and what clothes you buy to get there.

Maybe you’re looking for something a little more low key? What about the linen tank top with fringe pictured below? Paired with white cropped pants, cute sandals, statement earrings - perfect for date night. Paired with shorts, cute sandals and a long necklace for a playdate. This one has a lot of options for someone will more variability to their schedule.

Hopefully you’re staring to see how you can be more strategic in your wardrobe choices. Go to your favorite retailer and check out all the May new arrivals to see the latest trends. Below are a few picks from the new arrivals at J. Crew. Happy Shopping!!

Portfolio Dress in Petunia Print

Resume jumpsuit in stretch linen

Spaghetti Strap Ruffle Dress in Tropical Silk

Tiered Maxi Dress in Shirting Stripes

Linen Tank Top with Fringe

Point Sur Allover Pointelle Crewneck Sweater

Flutter-sleeve top with embroidered trim

Is it Spring yet??

I just got back from a sunny warm vacation and I am in full spring mode. Only I've come back to 30 degree temperatures. Clearly Mother Nature and I have our signals crossed. I've had a taste of warmer temps and I'm now done with winter. It's time to move on. Bring on spring.

Even getting a manicure this weekend the girl next to me was talking to the technician about the new spring colors and what to look forward to. We're all feeling the need to move on from a cold winter. I know you're with me!

So as I am looking through my backup of mail I am starting to see some of the new spring fashions make their way into the retail new arrivals. Easter is just a couple weeks away and if you're in need of a dress, there are options available. One of the trends I am currently in love with is the flowy floral maxi dress. The feminine nature of these dresses is classic spring. The soft silhouette is flattering on multiple body types. They are also incredibly comfortable to wear. The ease of this style will make it a quick favorite.

Here is one example that I recently saw in a mailer that I received from Black House White Market and instantly fell in love with:

Flutter Sleeve Floral Print Woven Maxi Dress

Keep an eye out for this style as I expect you'll see it often this spring. Happy shopping!