Written by Jennifer Heilbron
When I get a calendar alert reminding me to sign the kids up for camp, I know summer is around the corner. For all of you fall-loving, pumpkin-spice-latte-drinking, boot-wearing people, I have news for you: Summer fashion is where it’s at. To me, summer is a chance to be the best, most dreamy version of yourself. Maybe I get it from the many teen romance novels and shows I have devoured in my lifetime, but I have these visions of myself yachting through St. Tropez, dining with New York’s art elite on a rooftop, at a BBQ in the Hamptons, at a luau in Maui…you get the point.
While I literally have plans to go nowhere this summer, I have great ideas and, as I said, lots of fantasies that translate into hundreds of saved outfit ideas for every dream occasion. From backyard barbecues to beach days to a day (or night) on a friend’s boat, I’m sharing fabulous finds that will bring out the sun, fun and summer party vibes!
And for easy shopping, browse all my outfit picks in this Amazon shop. You’re welcome.
Pool party
Sets, sets, sets. Summer is about the sets. Enter this super sexy crochet set that’s part exotic and part practical for a fun summer pool party. It’s not too dressy and it’s easy to take off for a dip in the actual pool. (Do people actually swim at pool parties?) Paired with a great bikini, a pop of pearl and trendy sandals, this outfit will make a splash!
BBQ
A backyard barbecue on a warm summer night makes me so happy. When the grill is going and margaritas or beer are being served, I lean towards a casual, comfortable look. A white button-down is like a security blanket to me—wear it slightly open and half-tucked into ripped jeans shorts with a pair of cute slides and a wide straw hat because this party will go day to night!
Beach day
Family beach days are where memories are made (and lots of shlepping is done). If we’re heading to the beach with a group of friends for a little party, I need to make sure what I’m wearing stays up and my shoes keep me from burning my feet on the sand. I recently got this crochet cover-up and it’s so cute! I paired it with a Hunza dupe, comfy shoes and a big ol’ hat. Surf’s up, baby!
Luau
This outfit screams island breeze to me, and it’s making me wish I was in Hawaii sipping a piña colada and watching hula dancers. Maybe you’re off to Hawaii and need a great outfit for a luau or maybe you’re heading somewhere tropical and need a nice going-out dress: This off-the-shoulder lace dress and straw clutch combine to create the perfect simple yet elevated look.
Picnic
End-of-year class party
Not quite sure how we have only one month of school left (insert my freaked out face), but here we are. Buckle up, baby. We have some entertaining of the children to do! But before you go forth into the unknown of summer, it’s likely you will have to gather with classmates for an end-of-year party or get-together. Keep it cool with a lightweight romper, oversized aviators that look incredibly designer and the newest trend on the shoe scene: fisherman gladiators! Be prepared to get compliments from the other mamas with this look.
Patriotic party
Let’s get straight to the point: It’s a red, white or blue situation for your patriotic party fit. I love this red flowy set (told you this summer’s all about sets!) paired with beautiful sandals. But, if blue is more your vibe, you could opt for this blue shorts (you guessed it) set and keep it open with a white tank under.
Garden party
Summer dinner party
While I may not be dining al fresco in Tuscany this summer, I do have some friends with gorgeous homes and I am so looking forward to recreating this chic, classic and sophisticated black-and-white look. A black strapless tunic top paired with linen pants, gold bangles (double up!) and Celine lookalike sunnies—it feels so effortless and gives off quiet luxury energy. Now, someone invite me to a party, please!
That boat life
Sporting party
Jennifer is a writer, mom of 3 and shopaholic. She lives in Los Angeles with her husband, 3 sons and endless amounts of Amazon deliveries.
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