Alas, Spring is here. Surely it’s only going to stay for about 30 seconds before the scorching summer sun arrives again to New York. But I’m not allowed to complain about the weather anymore, because it’s not winter and I promised God I’d shut up if the trees grew leaves. I apologize for the lack of fashion posts lately, I’ve been equal parts busy and uninspired. Fortunately, while shopping for my upcoming trip to Italy I have pumped myself up enough to write a summer style guide.
I’ve decided to categorize my suggestions for four different women, who are inspired by friends of mine in real life with great style. So often I find myself sharing photos of celebrities and major bloggers, when in reality I am most inspired by those I know. For this particular article I asked my friends about their shopping habits, favorite summer destinations, and personal favorite outfit photos.
The Prep
True to my New England roots, I often find myself dressing with a hint of preppy. Though I am still a Lilly Pulitzer skeptic, I am a loyal J.Crew shopper. For the prep, this season she’ll be happy to hear that rugby shirts are back, distressed denim is out, and bright colors are hot as ever. Also, Julia Engel of Gal Meets Glam just released a dress line that she’ll DEFINITELY need for every summer wedding.
Who Is she?
@AmandaMShelly
@KateEHarrington
Seasons may change, but her style doesn’t. This is why she’s far more likely to rock a classic denim cut than something with rips or a trendy wash. The prep isn’t afraid of a little bow or ruffle, and knows how to execute it without looking childish or over-the-top. My preppy muse is (as always), Amanda Shelly, whose style is timelessly feminine. You’re likely to see her this summer in Bar Harbor, Maine– most likely wearing stripes. I’m also inspired by my best friend & charming Wilmington resident Katie Harrington whose love of big hair and bold prints is equal parts preppy as she is glamorous.
The City Dweller
Flip-flops on the subway? You’d rather die. For you, summer means the weekend trip outside of the city, and rooftop bars during the week. Happy hour with oysters? Consider this my RSVP. This summer it’s all about two-piece sets, statement sleeves, day-to-night jumpsuits, and hoop earrings. As far as you’re concerned, black is most definitely a summer color.
Who Is she?
@rwaldz
@jfeiseee
This look series is inspired in equal parts by the lifestyles of my friends Jordan Feise and Rachel Walden– who you’re likely to see at the Surf Lodge in Montauk or the South of France this summer. Rachel, a native New Yorker, is a publicist who tends to shy away from colors and gravitate towards edgier pieces. She’s likely in all black, but loves a good statement outfit for the insta. Jordan is an Arizona native working in tech in NYC. True to her roots, her hair is always styled to perfection, and she doesn’t shy away from wearing heels. She’s absolutely determined to find the perfect one-piece that can double as a bodysuit– I consider this mission accomplished.
The Queen of Extra
You aren’t afraid to wear bold colors, patterns or trends. Your summers are spent traveling, but you still like to look fabulous when you’re working your day job. Weekends with you consist of art exhibits and brunch with your best friend, the city dweller, though your style is a little more classically femme. Bag belts? Why not! Intense cat-eye? Love. You are extra + you own it!
Who is she?
@MACKINSTYLE
You are Mackenzie Newcomb of Mack in Style, who can’t go a summer without visiting Europe. This year she’ll be eating spaghetti on the beach in the Italian Riviera and drinking red wine in Tuscany. You love wearing white, despite usually staining your outfits, and you splurge exclusively on statement bags. If it’s pink, you’ll probably dig it.
The Beach Babe
You practically live in linen and you have a reckless number of swimsuits. For you, comfort is a priority, but you never sacrifice looking cute. Your hair is salty and you have a killer tan. You’re usually wearing neutrals or beachy tones. The headband trend was practically made for you. If you’re going to buy something new this summer, it better work on and off the beach. Unless it’s cotton, you’re probably not going to wear it much.
Who Is she?
@arisacco
@katenewcomb
The beach babe is inspired by two of my favorite girls from Marshfield– my sister, Kate Newcomb and my best friend Ariana Sacco. These queens of the relaxed style belong on the beaches of Barcelona or sunbathing on a boat in the Gold Coast of Australia. If you want them to hangout with you, simply fill a cooler with spiked seltzers and save them a beach chair. They’re always down for lobster rolls for lunch and a drink at sunset.
