Breezy Summer Essentials

Marie Claire

The essence of summer is sheer simplicity.  We thought we would take a moment to remind everyone of the simple pleasures of summer waiting to unfold...

A weekend getaway with the added bonus of a lighter suitcase... a few essentials are all you need.  Swimsuit, tunic, t-shirt, sandals, sunscreen, sundress and a great read...

Zara

A super lightweight and versatile knit dress that can be dressed up or down.  So very packable and transformative with some fun jewelry....

Trina Turk

A little punch of color goes a long way.  If you are among the lucky who can sport a two piece, this suit has a bit of coverage and is packed with style.

Melissa Odabash

Whether sauntering across the pool deck or having a sunset cocktail...this melon colored tunic does double duty....pair it with white capris or throw it over your bathing suit as a coverup.

San Diego Hat Company

Hiding from the paparazzi or those ultra violet rays.....you are covered with a wide brimmed hat that is packable and crushproof.

Trader and Company

The more uses it has, the better we like it....a fantastic sturdy tote that takes you from farmer's market to pool side....picnics, summer concerts, sailing with friends, tote the kids' sweatshirts and beach pails...you get the idea.  Must channel inner French girl!

Vince Camuto Sandal

These slide on sandals are a lovely metallic tone which transitions from day to night.  If gold is not your thing, they come in a love pewter tone too!

A fantastic summer read that you will not want to put down....and yet, you don't want it to draw to an end as well.....what is the indescribable thing about reading a book on a lazy summer afternoon?

Trovata Weekender

A gorgeous bag with just enough room to store all of your summer essentials. This bag is durable and roomy, crisp and polished, and yet still so very understated...

Really, that is all you need.  A few lovely pieces and a fabulous bag to store them in.  May your breezy summer days carry you off on a few relaxed and laid back adventures.

To Summer!

Jacquie and Margaret

Move Over Black....The Little White Dress

Rachel McAdams and Uma Thurman
Cannes Film Festival 2011
wireimage.com

Move over Little Black Dress...there is a new dame in town!  The little white dress has trumped the LBD for summer and we are loving the trend.  Such a fresh and crisp alternative for evening.  The LWD made its debut in droves at the Cannes Film Festival in May.

There was also plenty of white to be found in the spring runway shows, from lace to modern sleekness.   Why wait for Memorial Day Weekend to wear white... we've been wearing it all winter.  This year, white is the new black.

Courtesy of DressTalk.com

Ladies, you can still feel sexy...even vampy in white.  Perhaps you can pair an unexpected color or accessory with your LWD.  White goes with anything....If you wish to elongate your legs, choose a nude sandal or heel to sport with your dress.

Dolce and Gabbana

Lace can add a feminine touch without being too prim and proper.  These dresses are ladylike but modern.

Fendi

This dress is a statement piece that says, "I'm Here!"  Paired with a perfect red lipstick and sleek hair, she's sure to turn some heads at a summer affair.

Banana Republic

This dress is a little bit more understated yet sexy and flattering.  It is modern and has that hourglass shape that looks great on most women. If you don't feel entirely comfortable with your arms exposed, drape your shoulders with a silk pashmina.  It also adds a lovely accent of color.

Do you have a little white dress in your closet?  Consider one for your essential wardrobe basics.   The little white dress is destined to become a classic...just like the LBD.  You may end up turning a few heads!