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

Styles to help keep you cool when temps are on the rise

We’ve been experiencing some very hot weather in the Northeast. Last weekend was scorching hot with temps up to 100! Not mention just how muggy it has been. Ideal conditions would allow you to stay home on days like this. But let’s get real… we all have lives to live… jobs, kids, errands, events….our plates are full and we need to get on with life, even in the heat. So what do you wear to live your life in this challenging weather trend?

We need to find ways to stay cool, ladies. I’m all for the maxi dresses but let’s be honest, it can get hot under there. If you’re going to go with maxi or midi length dresses or skirts, keep your fabrics light and breathable. This means stick to cotton or linen. Light colors are also preferable. Black tends to absorb heat. Eyelet is a popular summer trend and a great way to keep cool.

These fabric and color tips are applicable across the board. Lightweight fabrics and light colors are preferable in all your hot weather choices. I think this is why white is so popular in the summer. Not to mention how great it looks with your tan. Then again, white doesn’t flatter every skin tone. Light gray, shades of tan or peach and even a pastel pink will go a long way in your summer wardrobe.

Besides those maxi styles, what should you wear? Wide leg linen pants or crops will work if you want to keep it long. If you’re ready to go short, the infamous sundress can be your go to. Rompers are on trend and come in a variety of styles included strapless, halter, and one shoulder. And finally, feel free to pull on those trusty pair of shorts.

I’ve never been a big fan of the way I look in shorts. Last year we took my kids to Disney World for the first time. I quickly realized the only way to get around Disney in the heat and not completely lose my mind was going to be to wear shorts. So I purchase a bunch of different styles and started trying them on. I am happy to say that shorts have come a long way. From your old school chino shorts to cut off jean shorts and even fancy scalloped linen shorts, there are a lot of choices out there. Still not sold? Or maybe unsure what will look good on you? Time to try them on! That’s the best way to figure out what looks good.

So, if you’re staring at your closet in the morning trying to figure out how to keep cool…. Time to take these tips and start shopping!

H&M Eyelet Embroidered Dress

J. Crew Ruffle Deep V-neck Beach Dress

J. Crew Spaghetti Strap Jumpsuit

H&M Cotton Dress with Embroidery

J. Crew High Rise Triple button stretch linen short

J. Crew Border Eyelet Dress

H&M Cotton Butterfly-sleeved Dress

J.Crew 4 in Linen Cotton Scalloped Hem Short