the summer essential list

Summer is {finally} here! Maybe not officially, but it sure is beginning to feel like it here in Georgia!
Here’s my “summer essential list” for easy, no fuss every-day dressing. If you have these pieces, you’ll improve your ability to mix and match your wardrobe to create endless looks and have ready-to-go options to pack for travel.

A striped tee :: Every woman needs a navy and white striped top. Pair with white, denim or virtually any color bottoms, including pants, shorts or skirts.

Stylish stripes to shop ::

A neutral sandal :: Ideally, every woman needs a great neutral flat and wedge-heeled sandal. By neutral I mean anywhere in the the nude to cognac-brown family. This color scheme pairs with black, white, navy and every other color, and makes packing a cinch! Metallics also make great neutrals.

Fab neutral sandals to shop ::

A pair of denim shorts :: Denim shorts made a comeback a few season’s back and are around to stay. It’s easy to understand why, since, like a trusty pair of jeans, they go with everything! I wear mine with flat sandals or sneaks for day and with wedges for evening. This pair by Joe’s Jeans fit like a dream. {I sized up for a slouchier look.}

Great fitting denim shorts to shop ::

A carryall tote :: Who has time to switch purses all the time during summer?! A cute tote is a necessity {especially for those of us who are moms} for long days out, and can double as a cute carry-on travel back and pool/beach bag.

Cute totes to shop ::

A cute pair of sneakers :: I’m a new-covert to wearing sneakers outside of the gym, and now I wonder why it took me so long! I am loving wearing tennis shoes with casual dresses, skirts and shorts and there are so many adorable pairs out this season.

An easy-to-wear dress :: A comfy, breezy dress that can take you from day to night and can be worn with multiple shoes and accessories is a key summer essential. A good dress often takes the thought out of getting dressed, and is a perfect travel-companion. {Both of these dresses would also look cute with flat sandals. Can you tell I primarily wear heels?!}

A white/ivory “peasent” blouse :: A pretty, lacy top is a classic summer must-have. This blouse is feminine and functional, pairing with denim, colors, prints and patterns. Depending on the shape and style, a peasent blouse can be worn untucked with jeans or shorts and/or tucked into a skirt. I love how colorful accessories “pop” off this style blouse, and how it wears effortlessly from day to night, making it a perfect travel piece.

Pretty lace tops to shop ::

A perfect-fitting tee :: It goes without saying that a good-fitting tee is a key building block to any summer wardrobe. Life is too short to wear an ill-fitting tee, so make sure you have at least 3-4 tees in black, white and a color or two that you feel flattered in. Wear your tees plain, accessorized with an airy scarf or statement necklace or layered under a light-weight jacket.

Favorite tees to shop ::

Something chambray :: Like denim, chambray pairs with just about everything. Light to medium shades of chambray are trending this season, and are the easy answer to what to pair with bright colors, pattern and even whites.

Cool chambray to shop ::

Stylishly yours,