The art of summer layering

Rejoice! It is possible!

Among the many things that I dislike about summertime–and fear not, the list is longer than a receipt at CVS–are the lack of opportunities to delight in layering with various textures, fabrics, and outerwear. As someone who enjoys–perhaps too much, if my ever-collapsing rolling rack is any indication–outerwear and creating dimension in an outfit through layering, the heat and humidity in the city this time of year extinguish that possibility. And with it, much of the joy of getting dressed (at least for me). There are times, too plentiful to count, I’d prefer not to be wearing anything at all. Thus, one must learn to do more with less–and this, too, involves creativity.

Enter the art of summer layering: a challenge I’ve accepted over many sultry summers in a concrete jungle. The simple act of tying a shirt around one’s waist or shoulders is not by any means revolutionary, but can add interest and contrast even to a monochromatic look. Ditto popping an oversized tank over a t-shirt, a scarf around the waist, or a thoughtfully-layered stack of necklaces or rings. And one of my go-to summer looks is a white poplin set beneath a lightweight, black tailored maxi coat; a white sock, and a loafer.

Below, please enjoy six inspired looks that embrace this spirit–and as always, those items in bold are offered in a wider size range.

Thank you Abercrombie for sponsoring this newsletter <3

This image of Diana Vreeland is burned into my subconscious: there’s nothing groundbreaking about it, but it’s just so good. Though mostly allergic to color, I do enjoy the occasional pop of, in this case, red. Accessorize with a great necklace, a gold bag or loafer, or two gold cuffs à la Ms. Vreeland.

White maxi skirt, white t-shirt, long sleeve t-shirt, mesh flats, sunglasses

I love a relaxed, all-white look like the below (even though I am highly prone to spilling). When doing so, I prefer to create a bit of contrast with a black or tortoise pair of shades, an interesting black pendant necklace, and a black bag of some sort. (And probably, unfortunately, a few coffee stains.)

Linen trousers, tank, collared shirt, red sweater, flip flops

I will never tire of an impeccably-tailored black suit, and enjoy a warmer weather version of such with a great pair of Bermudas and flip flops. If it’s just too hot, I opt for a black button down, or tie the blazer around my waist like so.

Topcoat, poplin shirt, tank, linen shorts, flip flops

As I mentioned, the below combo is one of my wardrobe Old Faithfuls: white linen or poplin shorts and a button-down shirt, layered over a tank and under a lightweight coat. It has yet to fail me!

Linen shirt, linen Bermuda shorts, tank, flip flops, belt

I used to find dressing for a flight during the summertime an impossible equation, as coming up with an outfit that is both comfortable and practical (and chic) for various unpredictable temperatures is no easy feat. My current go to is a white tee, a black linen trouser, a lightweight trench I can pop on or off, and a black sandal (usually with a sock). I will also usually throw a sweater around my shoulders in case the plane’s a/c is working a bit too well.

Mid-length trench coat, white t-shirt, linen trousers, flip flops, sunglasses, sweater

There’s something about relaxed, ecru denim that scratches my brain in the right way, particularly when styled with a white shirt and tank and accessories that add a little dimension.

Belt, jeans, tank, shirt, sunglasses, flip flops

Hope you enjoyed!

XX

CG