Happy Summer!
It's been a minute since I last sent out a newsletter, and I want to blame it on my very, very busy summer schedule. But honestly, I just haven't felt motivated to write anything. Whenever I open a blank Google Doc, I get this sinking feeling in my stomach and an urge to close the tab and procrastinate (which I do 9 out of 10 times). It's funny how having a personal project (that literally no one is making me do) can bring on feelings of excitement and dread simultaneously.
Anyway, I hope everyone’s enjoying their summer. In New York, it's been hellishly hot, sticky, and humid. Lately, I've put a lot of thought into the outfits I wear to work when it's this miserable out. I mean, I want to wear the tiniest clothing possible (slinky bodysuits, shorts, and flip-flops), but that doesn't exactly scream "professional." So I’ve had to find the middle ground—and want to share some outfits that have kept me from overheating, while leaving me still feeling put-together.
This is the first time I'm doing a "What I'm Wearing" post (and the first time my face has graced the newsletter, haha), so let me know if you want to see more of these!
OK, now onto what I've worn to work.
Asymmetrical Tank Tops & Silver Sneakers
Earrings: Sophie Buhai Hinged Hoops ($215), Bag: Leather Bucket Tote from Etsy ($120), Top: Old Peter Do Ribbed Tank but I also like this option from Remain Birger Christensen ($80), Pants: Old Frankie Shop Pleated Pants but this is a good option from Madewell ($118), Sneakers: Wales Bonner x Adidas Silver Sambas ($220)
I styled this outfit around the silver sneakers I just got. I loved how they looked against the brown pants, and I knew that comfort would be key on a 90-degree day. The wide-leg, pleated pants are a great choice for hot weather because they are loose and airy. I wanted to wear a sleeveless top, and the Peter Do tank top was the perfect choice. It is ribbed and substantial, so it doesn’t cling to my body. The asymmetrical straps are chic and unexpected, and I felt comfortable wearing it to the office without worrying about it being too revealing. I love this leather bucket tote I got from Etsy (dupe alert: it’s basically the Row Park Tote). It's the perfect carry-it-all bag for summer schlepping when you're not sure where the day will take you.
’90s Tank & Silk Skirts
Earrings: Sophie Buhai Hinged Hoops ($215), Ring: Laura Lombardi Silver Ring ($57), Bag: APC Helene Tote (they don't make this shape anymore but here is their newest version), Top: Lemaire Twist Tank ($49 on sale), Skirt: J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Skirt ($59.50), Sandals: Old Proenza Schouler Slingback Sandals but these are similar on TRR ($298).
I love the Lemaire Twist Top, which nods to the ‘90s with its high neckline, modest wide straps, and zinc color. It's made of a slick, lightweight jersey that stretches and moves with your body. I styled it with a black silk midi skirt to continue the fluid, minimal ‘90s look, but also to create much-needed airflow. I opted for darker colors in both pieces to hide inevitable sweat, and added chunky sandals to balance out the sleekness of the rest of the outfit (as well as elevate my feet from the trash-juice soaked NY streets).
Cotton Poplin Dress & Leather Bucket Tote
Earrings: P.Nina Venus Pearl Earring, Bag: Leather Bucket Tote from Etsy ($120), Dress: Old La Ligne Dress ($250 on Vestiaire), Sandals: Old Proenza Schouler Elastic Sandals but I also like this option from ATP Atelier ($328).
I received a lot of compliments on this outfit! Upon reflection, I think the star of the look was really the dress, which at first appears simple but has understated details that make it stand out. Its subtle white contrast stitching modernizes the sweetness of the bodice. It also lacks a structured waistline, but has small pintucks that start from the hip, making the skirt flare out slightly, creating volume and, in turn, ventilation. I loved pairing it with these linen elastic slides from Proenza Schouler that are laid-back and fuss-free, but sophisticated enough to wear to work.
Table Linen-Inspired Shirt & Minimal Sandals
Top: Old Rebecca Taylor Top, but this one from Madewell ($88) is a great option, Pants: The Summer Pant from Matteau which I got on Poshmark but these from Pixie Market achieve the same effect ($109), Bag: I wore a straw tote I got in Mallorca to the office, but this Eileen Fisher tote ($128) would also style back nicely, Sandals: Emme Parsons Susan Sandal ($204).
I found this image from Matteau’s summer lookbook and wanted to recreate it with things from my closet. This Rebecca Taylor shirt was a sale purchase last year, and it's been a warm-weather must-have for its lightweight linen fabric and open crochet details that add breathability. The pants are also lightweight, and since both the top and pants are quite big, I balanced out the look with minimal sandals. The Susan sandals from Emme Parsons are my go-to every summer. They're refined enough to wear to work, but also basically a bikini for my feet.
That’s all I got! Stay cool out there, my friends!
XO,
Kristine
Great tips! I live in Colombia in the tropics which is also super hot and have been struggling to find outfits that look fashion forward/office approved/heat approved, since all I want to do is wear shorts! Thanks!
Resonate with that first paragraph haha! And great fits