The Power of a Standout Dress

Cute $52 shoes, a fave mag returns + more

I feel like this is going to be the summer of swelter, and as much as I don’t mind hot weather or humidity (I grew up in the South), NYC this hot is just yuck. All I am wearing are button-down shirts, my drawstring trousers and tank tops and carrying a fan with me everywhere I go. That said, when I was in Kennebunkport over the holiday weekend, I did panic and pack a dress and you know, the right dress can be a serious mood boost (this coming from someone who owns about 5 in total).

Mine was a Toteme broderie anglaise ankle-length number from last year. For me a standout dress has to push the envelope a bit and put you out of your clothing comfort zone. I dress so understated, it’s not a far reach. But it’s fun to feel feminine and swishy. The night before I had worn my Frances de Lourdes drawstring pants and a cashmere top and felt really good and pulled together. The dress required a bit more mental commitment, but also gave a solid jolt of happiness. I’m glad I packed it.

Other options I would wear include: This Matteau broderie anglaise strapless number; this Matteau one is almost a dead ringer for mine; this Toteme isn’t so standout but good for its ease; this Heidi Wynne is a no brainer (and on sale!); also this Attersee fringe dress has been on my radar for a while, I know women who have it and it’s fun in an unexpected way.

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Speaking of Toteme, if someone is lucky enough to going to Aeolian Island of Filicudi (a tiny island over 50 miles away from Sicily), they have a pop up store there this summer. This seems quite random (maybe they did it just for the imagery?), but then I don’t know Filicudi. No matter, it looks like heaven. (I would like those chairs. Any clues readers?)

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There wasn’t a lot of shopping to do in Kennebunkport, but I did go to Daytrip Society and quickly became obsessed and bought these Saltwater Sandals.

They are a design from 1944, can be worn in water, and come in a myriad of colors. They are also $52. They are a bit “little kid” (and come in kid sizes), but also remind me of last year’s The Row, below.

At first, they were a bit squeaky, but apparently you can wet them so the leather molds to your foot, which I might try. Happiness is a red shoe.

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After a 4 year hiatus one of my favorite magazines is baaack! Woohoo! I don’t have more details because it’s all they posted on IG. The founders, photographer Alexandra Nataf and stylist Ilona Hamer have impeccable taste and I have kept all my issues, which like the one featuring Lauren Hutton (image below), have been quite epic. I have missed their strong aesthetic and look forward to being inspired.

x

Jennifer

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