Friends, I don’t want to sound like I’m bragging, but my calendar is booked to the brim rn. I suddenly have all these dinner dates after work, happy hours and brunches everywhere I turn, plus, apparently, my friends decided it would be a great idea to throw parties every weekend until the temps cool down. There’s really only so much I can do with my current wardrobe, so I’m using this as an excuse to shop for new pieces that I know will take me to all these summer events.
I caught up with four of my most stylish friends, all experts in deceptively affordable outfits, for some inspo on what I should add to my wardrobe right now. As usual, they were adamant about the vast summer-ready selection at Macy’s—and for good reason. The legacy department store has so many on-trend pieces at such good prices I can get away with buying multiple outfits without feeling too bad for my wallet. Also, it’s nice to see that everyone’s really agreeing on trends this season, from blues and neutrals to wide-leg pants. Whether you’re in the market for something of the moment or you want to keep it classic, there’s something here for you. Keep reading for four outfits that are begging to be worn out this summer.
What kinds of occasions did you miss most last summer, and what will you do this year to make up for it? I missed walking around and sightseeing at a new location or theme park. This year, I’ll definitely visit more remote cities and do a lot of walking around admiring architecture and people-watching. What’s your favorite excuse to get dressed up over the summer, and what outfit do you typically go for? I love to plan brunch with friends, and I typically go for something light and feminine when I’m planning what to wear. Tell us about some summer fashion trends you’re loving. I’m loving pops of color mixed into modern design. This pleated, color-block skirt is fun and transitional, pairs well with this neutral-tone top, and feels versatile, so I can wear it to any event. I decided to style this look with a pair of Sperry sneakers for a more casual look. I can get away with wearing them anywhere during summer.
What kinds of occasions did you miss most last summer, and what will you do this year to make up for it? Our building has such a great rooftop in New York. It was a treat getting to WFH all summer, but I really missed having friends over for dinner parties up there! I’m definitely upgrading our little collection of rooftop necessities to make for some cute dining with friends. What’s your favorite excuse to get dressed up over the summer, and what outfit do you typically go for? I love an oversized, white button-down for summer. It’s great thrown over a swimsuit by day, but in the evening, I’m pairing one with relaxed trousers and fancy slides. Tell us about some summer fashion trends you’re loving. A poppy, white necklace always feels right over summer, whether it’s pearls, shells, beads, or something else. I like how it takes an outfit’s grown-up vibe down just a notch. I also believe that not every occasion automatically requires a dress. I think pants just feel cooler and more effortless sometimes. I love investing in really good relaxed trousers and then playing with moody tops based on the event––strapless, dramatic sleeves, whatever feels fun.
What kinds of occasions did you miss most last summer, and what will you do this year to make up for it? I have a few friends who live in apartment complexes with pools. We would have barbecues and parties there and are planning to spend a lot of time by the water, whether it’s laying out or cooking dinner. What’s your favorite excuse to get dressed up over the summer, and what outfit do you typically go for? I always keep it pretty casual over summer. I love dressing up to go bop around the neighborhood with my fiancé. We live in a really cute part of Venice, so everyone always looks trendy when we’re out and about. I’m always in either an easy dress or a top and shorts. Tell us about some summer fashion trends you’re loving. I am loving anything with color, which is funny because I usually aim for neutrals. But I’m into blue, tangerine, pink… and not just on my clothes. I love to add a bright pop of blush on my cheeks in my beauty routine, and I’ve even incorporated some orange and green into my apartment.
What kinds of occasions did you miss most last summer, and what will you do this year to make up for it? I love to travel and explore new places with my family—not always traveling far, sometimes just exploring cool little towns in my state of Florida. This was something I missed out on last summer. This year, I have a few staycation trips planned to get out and satisfy my desire to travel. I also started going to a lot more community events and festivals, such as art markets and the fun small-business markets that pop up around Tampa and St. Pete. What’s your favorite excuse to get dressed up over the summer, and what outfit do you typically go for? I can really find any excuse! Even if it’s just a day out exploring my city. I live in a very hot and humid environment, so when I dress up for a day out, I usually try to wear something that offers coverage from the sun but is light enough for the heat. I love lightweight pieces, such as a pair of flowy palazzo pants. Tell us about some summer fashion trends you’re loving. Some summer fashion trends I am loving are textured materials, like pleats. I usually stick to neutral tones or neutral tones with a pop of color or pattern somewhere. I love earthy tones, so creamy white, khaki, olive green, pale blue, and blush are some of my favorites with the occasional pop of pattern or bright colors. My minimalist approach to dressing goes all the way from loungewear to my dressier outfits!
