Creating a Classic Wardrobe for Summer

Hi friends,

As we enter the dog days of summer, staying cool typically becomes my primary focus and looking stylish falls to the bottom of the list! I’ve wanted to make a change to that and did a lot of reading, mood-boarding, saving, pinning, etc. to get a better handle on my style, what I liked, and how I could keep cool in the summer time… boy is that a process!

If you’re anything like me, you might be somewhat easily influenced by trends, even if you don’t partake right away. I only recently purchased a pair of mesh flats that I’ve been eyeing for about a year, but others come together in my wardrobe a little later, and some with much more (or much less) intention than the mesh flats did.

I wouldn’t call this “quiet luxury” because I’m not all about designer clothes (I’m currently wearing a tank top from H&M I’ve worn on heavy repeat for the last month), but it is classic Americana and feels not unlike something I would have seen on women in photographs from Nantucket 60 years ago.

There’s something familial, reassuring, and empowering about the idea that our clothes can serve their purpose for that long— to transcend time and memories in a way that trendy pieces cannot always do. Rather than being bookmarked to a particular era, these pieces live long lives as they are worn, tailored, and mended to change and adapt to our lives and activities.

These classic pieces are easily paired together, creating numerous outfits that can be worn in different settings and situations— I’m adding all of them to my cart immediately!

  • These Hermes Oran sandal dupes. I’ve worn the raffia color way for three summers and love them so much! My neighbor tried them on, and said they’re more comfortable than the Oran sandal if you have regular to wide feet!
  • A pair of pearl earrings will never steer you wrong. I’ve worn a pair since high school and think they’re well worth the investment, but start with faux pearls if you’re unsure how often you’ll wear them!
  • Although I haven’t been much of a watch girl in the past, I’ve really taken to wearing one this summer! I have a small, stretch-band one from Timex, but I love this Cartier dupe (because honestly, who do I think I am?)!
  • This Ralph Lauren sweater has lived in my head for years as a future purchase, and I think I’ll finally make the move! If you wanted something without the RL logo, Tuckernuck makes a great 100% cotton option as well.
  • Like I mentioned before, I’m not usually one for trends; however, the barrel jean silhouette has been calling my name as an option for looser denim in the summer time! This pair from Madewell look like the perfect option that isn’t too extreme in shape.
  • You all know I’ve never met a stripe I didn’t like, and that still couldn’t be more true. I love the little lace trim on this tank as well, and think it’s a perfect layering piece.
  • Can you ever go wrong with a fisherman sweater? Although it’s rare that summer nights get chilly in Virginia, I like to keep the A/C going, and like something to throw on if I get too cold.
  • If you want something without sleeves, this v-neck sweater feels much more luxurious than its price tag would lead you to expect, and I’ve used it in a couple of mood-board/outfit ideas lately! I like to tuck it into shorts on a warm day.
  • A midi skirt is an absolute must for hot summer days. You can dress them up or down with sneakers or heels, and mix-and-match them just as easily as denim! I love this cream version for a good, basic neutral.
  • I’m a sucker for a cute bikini, and in gingham? I’m done for! I love this one from J. Crew. Although it’s sold out, they bring back a similar iteration every year!
  • A good pair of polarized sunglasses is a must for me, and I don’t like to spend a lot of money on them after my dad used to lose all of his nice sunglasses when we were out on the water back home. This pair from Amazon has been my go to for the last 5 years!
  • This bag truly started this whole thing— I’m not normally a bag girl (I much prefer shoes), but the detail and color-way on this bag is absolutely stunning. It’s the perfect summer-to-fall color combination!
  • On that note, these wrap sandals have been on my wishlist for longer than I can remember. Everything Margaux makes, I love! The nappa leather is such a beautiful brown and goes with just about anything!

Happy hunting xx

 

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