To me, summer truly begins on Fourth of July Weekend. Seattle has a famous saying that “summer begins on July 5th,” owing to our longstanding history of the rainy June gloom that seems to last right up until the last sparkler has fizzled. Nevertheless, getting a summer wardrobe just in time for sunny skies is easier than you think, and if you chose the right pieces they can be incorporated into your closet come fall.
My pick for the week is the Graphic Miniskirt by MSGM. Founded in 2008 by designer Massimo Girogetti, this Italian label was named a Vogue Talents finalist in 2010. The graphic pattern is super flattering and on trend. The length is perfect for a miniskirt (not micromini) and is guaranteed to make you the little firecracker at your next summer party.
If you are off to a barbeque at a friend’s house, wear this groovy skirt with a cashmere t-shirt. This J. Crew Collection one in heather sky is perfect because it has a great cut to it and the marled color of blue is lovely. Cashmere is a fabric to be worn year round, and it is quite summery in this fitted tee. The Three Row Beaded Necklace from Topshop adds a bit of drama, which I love. Finally, make your shoes fun. The mix of florals and stripes is so of the moment, so pop on a pair of these Kate Spade Dagney Wedges and you will be the best dressed girl on the patio.
There is never anything better than a great jean jacket, and the cropped one by Closed is a great complement to the graphic skirt. I love the way this brand does denim and their jackets have a style to them that is beyond cool. Check them out at www.closed.com. I also love the neutrality of gray (the largest section in my colorized closet, ahem). An ATM Anthony Thomas Melillo Sweetheart Tank shows as a simply beautiful backdrop to local Seattle designer Paychi Guh’s Everyday Mongolian Cashmere Scarf in Pear. This former Design Director at Nordstrom began her own cashmere company in 2012 and is taking pre-orders on her gorgeous pieces for September 2013. Wear them with Isabel Marant’s The Carol studded leather sandal to add a sophisticated nod to the denim jacket.
If you would like to dress this skirt up for work but still be able to head out for summer fun afterwards, start by making a statement with Theory’s Tamler L Leather Jacket over the Joie Peterson B Blouse in Dark Navy. I like the look of a kind-of-but-not-too-messy top knot bun with this sort of styling, and the Jil Sander’s Tri-tone suede and patent sandals keep things contemporary. Once that five o’clock whistle blows, switch your work bag for a the fun and funky Clare Vivier Fold Over Clutch, add a pair of turquoise hoops, and get your happy hour on.
For those of us in the Pacific Northwest who love the summer, it is always worth the wait. Adding a signature piece (or two) to your summer wardrobe that can be worn into the fall are always worth the price tag if you buy what is well made, with quality and craftsmanship, and that you actually love. Here’s to another season of looking beautiful.