Things You Must Wear This Summer—Seriously


Current/Elliott is the king of well-fitting shorteralls.

My summer uniform is pretty standard: jean shorts, V-neck tee, cute sneakers. However, summer is the ideal time to experiment with new fashion—the warm weather gives the season an ease that fall just doesn’t have. In an effort to expand my style horizons, I’m taking the opportunity to try a few new styles. You should too.

1. SHORTERALLS
I’m well-versed in regular overalls, but shorteralls are a whole new ballgame. In the past, I was afraid they could look childish too easily. The key here is fit and styling (kinda obvious, but some things take me awhile!). A too-loose fit is what takes shorteralls into middle school territory—slightly slouchy is what you want. Footwear is also important. My natural inclination is to go very adult with shoes, but this would be a mistake. Lace-ups or ballet flats are age-appropriate without being too “lady of the night.”

2. OFF THE SHOULDER TOPS
I grew up watching Kelly Kapowski rock off-shoulder tops, but being about 8 years old, it wasn’t a trend I could wear at the time. Now that I can, I’m glad to see more wearable styles in lightweight fabrics like cotton and linen—far more forgiving than the spandex styles of the ’80s. I’ll get to the point where I’ll wear my hair up to really showcase the neckline, but for my first go, I think I’ll keep my style safety blanket—er, my hair—down.


Mes Demoiselles off-shoulder tops, no mall bags required!

3. HEADBANDS
The turban-style headbands hitting What’s New lately keep catching my eye. They’re very different than the sparkly, messy-bun toppers that I’m used to. After stalking our hair and makeup department, I think I’ve figured it out: day-old, loose beachy waves. The salt spray/slightly frizzed combo gives your hair a bit of texture for the cloth band to hold on to. Add a playful maxi and some stacked bracelets, and you’re set.


A Eugenia Kim turban-style headband is easier to pull off than you think.


A retro Michael Kors Collection swimsuit has never been more modern.

4. STATEMENT SWIMWEAR
Having a pool (humble brag) means that my closet is stocked with swimsuits. The issue is that they are all the same. Bright, solid colors and bandeau tops. Considering how much time I spend in my bikini, I really need to branch out. A high-waisted, halter-style suit is far out of my comfort zone, but they are just too cute to pass up. Same with cutout one-pieces. I’ve avoided them in the past for fear of crazy tan lines, but in addition to changing up my style, I’ve resolved to keep out of the sun as much as possible this summer. Here’s to newfound shady style!