Olsen-ifying your summer wardrobe

Ten looks inspiring my warm-weather uniform, right this way.

May 23, 2025

Whenever I need sartorial inspiration, which happens much more frequently during the exasperating warmer months, I visit the haphazardly-organized, overflowing, imaginary file cabinet that exists within my mind. Within it lies a manila folder, bursting at its coffee-stained, tattered-paper seams, full of photos and clippings of my favorite set of blonde twins, who have even a knack for making wet hair and gray sweatpants look elevated. We know them, we love them, and we are never failed by them (or at least, I’m not). And whether it’s something they’re wearing, or something they’ve dreamt up through their line, The Row, I am endlessly inspired by the way they bring even the simplest pieces to life with an undone sense of refinement (especially when the temperatures demand we do more with less). In partnership with Nordstrom, my go-to for apparel and beauty, I bring you ten Olsenified (that’s a real word because I said so) summer looks. File these away somewhere safe.

Overnight flight

Wearing sweatpants on a plane seems to be a very polarizing topic, but I happen to think they can be done very right, like the below ensemble.

Walking the poodle

I don’t know what it is about the styling of this technical jacket situation that scratches my brain in all the right ways, but it does. And I have (and love) this parka by Another Tomorrow, below, which is perfect for my early morning city strolls (the standard poodle in my life is still loading).

Afternoon coffee run

An Olsen starter pack would be nothing without a pair of Birkenstocks, which I love styled with black trouser and croc bag. Contrast, people!

Plant shopping in the Flower District

One of the many things I love about their personal style is how it can be a challenge to decipher for which season they’re dressing. Head-to-toe white points to summer, but the heaviness of a black boot and leather bag keeps us guessing. Keeps things interesting.

Weekday breakfast meeting

This is a look I refer to often during the summer on days in which I don’t know what to wear. Unfortunately for me and my apparent lack of grace, I always spill things, which is notably hazardous for a tonal cream look. It’s worth the trip to the dry cleaner, though, I’d say.

Date night on the town

My vintage Edwardian lace gloves are one of my most treasured possessions, and they make any outfit look more compelling (and dare I say haunted). I love the simplicity of a strapless black dress with a corded pendant and pair of lace gloves–elevated yet comfortable.

Weeknight aperitivo with the ladies

An oversized, black, cotton maxi dress like the below is something I reach for over and over during the summertime. On the hanger, it can look like a total snoozefest, but its styling options are endless. It also makes for a great travel dress!

Jury duty

To be clear, I’m not sure what the dress code is these days for jury duty, but I don’t object to wearing this in a court of law.

Paying a visit to your financial advisor

This is another look I keep handy in my repertoire. A white poplin set is one of my summer staples, and a light, structured overcoat gives it a delightful edge of androgyny. Also, I cannot get enough of these Khaite loafers.

Saturday morning pedicure

I go back and forth about having my dogs out in the city, but I have fallen head over heels for a simple black flip flop, which I love styled with a great black trouser.

This post was made in partnership with Nordstrom.