As a stylist, I’m often asked what are the must-have staples for every season. To my clients’ delight, the list isn’t long and these items are easily attainable! This summer, along with the addition of a killer denim jacket, a linen white button-down, and a comfortable black or brown slide — a dressy black sundress is the Style Riot must-have of the season. Easy to dress up, dress down, and can also be worn to the season’s main events like weddings and showers.
Here are a few of my faves:
Open Edit, $89
Banana Republic, $200
11 Honore, $268
Reformation, $278
Theory, $395
Caes, $405
Envelope 1976, $510
Below I included three ways to wear my favorite silk sundress, an item I found while perusing inventory at the Toggery Resale a few seasons ago. It is my summer go-to and has been worn in a myriad of different ways.
KEEP IT CASUAL
This look is perfect for a casual summer afternoon on the go. Easy black slides, a fun sun hat, colorful layered necklaces, and a silver cuff step it up a notch for lunch with friends. And let’s not forget this epic leather bag with fringe from local custom bag retailer designer, Leather, Feather Stone. Easy, fun, casual, and chic.
DATE NIGHT
Heading out for a balmy night on the town? This dress has you covered. Go elevated boho chic with layered statement necklaces, a killer espadrille (Not a heel person? No biggie. Try these!), and a fun printed clutch. In case of a chill in the evening air, bring a beautifully printed wrap to drape over your shoulders. Or why not go for an unexpected twist and try it as a head scarf? Need some inspo? Not one, but twelve(!) ways to adorn your noggin.
WEDDING GUEST
Wedding Season is finally here! And with this dressy summer staple, you are certainly covered in the “what do I wear?” department. By adding a statement jacket or blazer, a strappy shoe, and a ton of gold bangles, this look is fun, whimsical, and wedding guest ready. Oh, and don’t forget that a silky, lightweight material is “twirltastic” for getting down on the dance floor.
Interested in hiring a stylist to create outfits like the ones shown here for the summer season? Look no further! Whether you are interested in revamping your wardrobe, refreshing your overall style aesthetic, or simply need something fabulous for an upcoming event, Style Riot is here to help with all your styling needs. Check out the list of styling packages here. I look forward to working with you!
Laura Walters is a fashion stylist and owner of Style Riot, LLC. She specializes in personal, commercial and editorial styling. Her work has been featured in international / US magazines and online publications / retailers such as Vogue, Valant, Archive, People, PATTERN, and Finish Line. You can connect with her on Instagram, and on her website.
All of our content—including this article—is completely free. However, we’d love if you would please consider supporting our journalism with an Indy Maven membership.
