Dress: Marithé + François Girbaud | Bucket Bag: Alexander Wang | Belt: Miu Miu | Ballerina Flats: Jasper & Jeera (Anthropologie)
Once we hit July, I stop checking the daily weather and rely on my simple summertime barometer: “Hot” or “Reaaaaally Hot.” And when the mercury climbs, I abandon separates and gravitate toward simple dresses with unusual shapes. I’m going for effortless — but still interesting.
Black isn’t the normal inclination for a summer sundress, but this one’s been a favorite since I found it a Jacksonville, Fla. boutique — waaaay back in 2006. I’ve worn it every summer since. The tiered skirt reminds me of drooping flower petals, and I used an elastic belt to exaggerate the unusual shape. I prefer this to peplum — it’s easier to manipulate.
Belt: Miu Miu | Peacock Bracelet: Vintage
The crescent moon print is a little moody for the season, but it’s more unexpected than the typical florals.
Ballerina Flats: Jasper & Jeera (Anthropologie)
A quick note on logistics: Because the dress is made from tissue-thin cotton, it’s diaphanous in the sun. It also blows straight up whenever I walk over a subway grate, so I always wear black biker shorts (from American Apparel) underneath.
Sunglasses: Ray-Ban Clubmaster