7 Summer Essentials

7 PIECES TO GREET SUMMER 2011 IN STYLE

A BRIGHT BLOUSY TOP - To go with white jeans, skirts, and shorts. Pair this combo with nude wedges and it's an absolutely delightful outfit. You can also style this "Pink Lemonade" from Poketo for a night out.

Pull it over a tight white mini tank dress, sky high gold heels, and tons of gold jewelry and you are ready to go. Bring on the hot pink pedi!

SPORTY SUNGLASSES – For me, summer means always getting to enjoy the great outdoors and what a better way to do that than with fitness? Whether it's boot camp in the park, hiking, or jogging, you'll want to protect your eyes. Fashiony shades don't always work with your volleyball gear, so you'll want a sportier pair. Try these by Michael Kors.

The turquoise and yellow accents make them extra fun!

MAXI DRESS - There are many styles available, but the maxi dress has taken a turn for the casual this year. We're seeing a lot of cotton and jersey. They are perfect for a casual summer wedding, running around and more. I work in a casual environment, so I can throw on a cardigan or a shrunken denim jacket and wear this whenever. Others may want to save this look for "casual Friday," but add some wood or stone jewelry and you're office-ready.

SMALL CROSS BODY BAG - I call this my "tool around town" bag because it's perfect for brunch, running errands, etc. Holds cash, credit cards, lip gloss, keys, and your phone. This ‘licorice’ version by Poketo is so incredibly soft, you cannot tell it’s faux leather!

I also love this bright marigold by Michael Kors. 

UNEXPECTED SWIMSUIT COVER UP – The Sunburst laser cut outs on this tunic make it a nice break away from the usual sarong and allows you to keep the goods under wraps until you’re ready to unveil that bikini.

Another great find at Poketo!

One very glamorous option is this gorgeous turquoise chiffon maxi. A wide brimmed hat and large sunglasses are all you need to complete this resort-ready look.

American Apparel makes these in 7 different colors!

COLOR BLOCK DRESS - A simple style at a great price! This American Apparel two-tone dress lends itself well to the color block trend and it comes in a variety of colors. My favorite is the Sunshine/Silver.


NUDE WEDGES – This style/color combo will tie up any ensemble nicely. They work for day and night. Piperlime has a HUGE selection! I love these because they are stylish and comfy!

Summer Necessities

Here's what Soignee is really into for summer . . .

1. Fun, fun, fun prints! I'm in love with the whimsy of stars, hearts, and polka-dots. They make me think of a favorite sweater of mine that I had when I was in the 4th grade; it had a stripe of rainbow hearts across the chest and I adored it. Now that I'm (a little bit) older, I'm still loving the concept, but light, modern, sexy/flirty.

Hearts Galore

2. Leggings are hanging in there and all I can say is Thank God. I am so grateful for my leggings - black and gray are my staples. They are so comfortable, so slimming, and totally work with nearly everything in my closet!

3. I have never loved a brooch until I saw this Tiffany:   Now, this is an investment ($8400!) but imagine your granddaughter's eyes welling up as you pass this gorgeous piece onto her; probably at her wedding. A treasure.








5. Baggy jean shorts. I'm super excited about a DIY project that I'm about to embark on (before & after photos soon!) I obtained a free pair of Levi's that are too big, but will make for really awesome baggy jean shorts for the summer. I'm going to break out the rubberbands and a bucket of Clorox and create my own tie-dyed denim! Nothing better than virtually free fashion . . .

This is what I'm copying. Pretty cool!

6. A maxi dress is seriously, the most flattering thing you can put on. They cover so much of what most of us want covered! You know, tummy, hips, thighs . . . You'll look taller and thinner - what's not to like? Pair them with a great pair of wedges (add height!) and you're good to go for brunch, shopping, or even an outdoor wedding. Got this beauty from Piperlime:

7. And, speaking of wedges, get some! A wedge sandal in a gorgeous soft leather will serve you well with dresses, shorts and business wear. I LOVE these:

HAPPY SHOPPING!