I am a believer in core wardrobe pieces, mostly because if you have the right “go-to” pieces you won’t spend a second all summer hunkered down in your closet near tears because you just don’t have anything to wear. I have had these moments, they’re devastating, so here’s a quick How-to Guide on Building a Core Summer Wardrobe. Remember, your core wardrobe isn’t flashy or overly trendy, these are your staples. Most of these styles can be blended with the “it” trends of the seasons, so invest in what will last and don’t spend a penny too much on the other stuff!

The Dress:
I want everyone to have a dress that they feel amazing in. My absolute favorite designer for this piece of your wardrobe is Susana Monaco. Her patented supplex material is flattering, versatile and washable (hello sweaty summer concerts)! I love all of her pieces and can personally vouch for fit, comfort and wearability. Easily dress any of these up for a cocktail party, graduation, bridal shower and the list goes on. Or…throw on a pair of flat sandals and a cute little wrap sweater and sprawl out on a blanket to watch Grease playing at the movie in the park. Styles available by phone from The Juice Boutique customer.service@shopthejuice.com.

The Jacket:
Everyone needs a great lightweight summer jacket.

Paige Vermont Jacket in Westward

I’m a sucker for a classic denim jacket. They look good with everything in the summer: (except more denim of course – if you even thought about it for a second, please consider this a warning) short dresses, maxi dress, bermudas, printed skirts. The only problem with the denim jacket is finding one that is fitted and chic. This style from Paige is a good example, but frankly, I can’t tell you why it’s $350. That’s a little ridiculous! Use this as a guide. Note that it’s not cropped, it is shaped at the waist and the color is washed out a bit. Avoid all over dark!

Another strong contender for top outerwear piece this summer is this canvas jacket from jcrew. This jacket would look amazing over the tube dress or paired with the skinny Paige’s featured below, a simple yellow and white striped tank, huge sunglasses, red flats and the Gorjana necklace – ooooh I just got goose bumps, that would be so perfect.

The Jeans:
Denim has really come to define personality, lifestyle and image. Your core denim should serve as your casual Friday, evening out Saturday and sleepy Sunday all in one. Choose a medium to dark wash that can be worn with a lightweight blazer at work, a gorgeous top for tapas and a lightweight tank for your Sunday stroll to the farmer’s market.Your core denim need not be cropped or sunwashed they need to serve too many purposes to be so narrowly defined.

(From Left to Right) Paige Skyline Peg, 2.Kasil Devoted Bootcut, 3. Paige Bundy Petite 32″ Inseam

The Jewelry:
I’ve always felt like summer is the time of year when I really pick a style and just run with it. Maybe it’s the sunshine messing with my otherwise cloudy mind, but I love to find a piece of statement jewelry and wear the heck out of it. Gorjana is a favorite designer of mine. Her pieces are simple, elegant, youthful and fashion-forward. These pieces look fantastic dolled up with a dress and heels and stripped down to a tank, jeans and espadrilles. A really amazing piece of jewelry will do both for you. Gold or silver – doesn’t matter – go with what suits your skin tone!

The Shoes:
Two styles you must have this summer. 1. The Flat Leather sandal – gladiator or not, you decide and 2. A Wedge or other Thick Heel.  There are too many styles out there to count, but here are a couple faves…

(Top Left) Sam Edelman Gigi, (Bottom Left) Sam Edelman Sahara, (Bottom Right) Seychelles Layover

If you have questions about any of the items and/or any other styling questions/comments, email me at ashley@ineedprettythings.com. I’d love to hear from you.

Cheers,
Ashley