Sweltering in the City: Summer Neutrals

Born and raised a Chicago girl, I have an incredible love for my Windy City.  The Midwestern powerhouse offers history, culture, entertainment, and the experience of the four seasons.  I always considered myself lucky for this last geographically unique bonus: brisk and colorful falls, snowy winters, sunny springs, and hot summers (read as: wonderful style options).  But truth be told, these last two weeks have made me rethink my seasonal treasure....With heat indexes reaching close to 110 degrees fahrenheit, my hair does not stand a chance and my commute makes sure to take my ensemble from summery to sweaty.  Second City?  More like Scorching City!
Never fear, readers, where there is a will, there is a way!  Below I have offered some light and airy summer options in neutral colors in order to keep you cool in this sauna of a summer.

1.  TOPSHOP Cream Embellished Cropped Vest

2.  Holy Tee Clara Top

3.  Jeffrey Campbell Buckled Up Wedges

4.  Reformed by The Reformation for Urban Renewal Long Bits Dress

5.  jules. Bijoux Long Necklace

Ps.  jules. is a Chicago designer that has some truly beautiful and unique pieces that are a current obsession of mine!  Look through her other collections at http://www.shopjules.com/index.php!

6.  Twenty8Twelve Animal Print Silk Dress

Channeling: Jane Birkin

Jane Birkin is the definitive It girl: with stunning good looks, innate fashion sense,  and the ability to look effortlessly stylish in everything she wears, she is my sartorial icon.  Model, actress, singer, fashion template---this Parisian chick can do just about anything, and rock some serious ensembles to boot.  Mixing her simple choices with thigh high boots, loosen-the-collar high hemlines, and see through peek-a-boo fabrics, Jane Birkin flirted with the line of subtlety and down right sexy.  Below, feast your eyes on pictures of the icon herself as well as some piece I feel convey that amazing style she so famously established on the fashion map (not just anyone can be the namesake for a Hermes bag!)

1. American Apparel Loose Crop Tank

2. Sam Edelman Lavi Platforms

3. Seven For All Mankind Bell Bottoms

4. Tibi 3/4 Crochet Mini

5. Free People Lace 'Moonlight Breeze' Top

Top of the Line

The summer leaves opportunities a plenty to show off tanned shoulders, toned arms, and open backs.  Easy for nearly every occasion, summer tanks, tops, blouses, etc., are a staple that can be both dressed down or gussied up.  Paired with shorts and flat sandals, you are easy and breezy; on the other hand, worn with high waisted trousers or linen pants and wedges, complimented with some eye catching jewelry, you are set for a more formal evening.   I have selected some gorgeous options for all occasions that I think will add a beautiful touch to your summer wardrobe.

1.  Marc by Marc Jacobs Crepe de Chine Blouse:  The color of this blouse is absolutely beautiful. Marc Jacobs is a fashion genius, and this blouse is a perfect example of his incredible work.  Although I'm not usually a sucker for sweet looking things, the bow tie is an excellent complement with the gold buttons and contrasting hooks.  Being sleeveless, the top transitions from day to night quite easily.  When I look at this top, I immediately think navy---similar to the white polka dotted shorts shown in the image; truly a darling look for a fun outing.

2.  Cooperative Tie Back Tank:  This choice would definitely fare better at a casual circumstance:  playful in color combination and original in structure, this top would look incredible with bright denim---think fabulous color blocking.  The girlish bows in the back are off set with the sexy peek to an open back.  From the front, they'll never see you coming, but when you're walking away, they won't be able to take their eyes off!

3.  Elizabeth and James Leather Trimmed Chiffon Blouse: Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are the incredibly talented minds behind Elizabeth and James; they have a knack for creating truly beautiful things, and this blouse is no exception.  Flowy in nature, but rooted in leather accents, this top would best be worn for a cooler night in the summer.  The leather trim down the button closures and the incredible gathered cuffs take this blouse from romantic to fashion forward and almost a bit taboo.  Most definitely a one of a kind piece, I love the look shown with black trouser pants for perhaps a work event.

4.  Nome de Plume by Ya Ya Tie Die Tulip Tee:  Although available in other color options, I think the cream and black trim combination is just dreamy: simple, yet with an unexpected twist in the back.  This Nome de Plume delight is probably the most versatile of all the tops picked for today's story.  Like shown in the image, this top will work for a day outing with colored or denim, but also look incredible with an eggplant pair of wide leg pants---definitely an adorable option to have in your closet.

Best Foot Forward

"A woman with good shoes is never ugly. They are the last touch of elegance." 
- Coco Chanel
Shoes can make or break an outfit.  Some people view shoes as simply an accessory, but it is my belief that they are quite the contrary.  Shoes can be the roots of an outfit: the staple that the remainder of the outfit is created around.  They elevate an ensemble from so-so to down right fabulous.  It was my pleasure to research today's story; indulging in the beautifully crafted things that cover my feet?---twist my arm!

1. Jeffrey Campbell Shy Town Wedges:  The words the come to mind:  OVER. THE. TOP.  When I found out that Jeffrey Campbell was making a Chicago exclusive shoe for Lori's, I was filled to the brim with excitement!  I would wear these shoes with just about anything:  the turquoise paired with neutral khaki make me swoon, and the suede wedge blueprint make this shoe my all time summer favorite.  I can't wait to strut down State Street that Great Street in my "Shy Town" showstoppers.

2. Sam Edleman Warren Heel:  Fringe?  The answer to that question is always YES PLEASE.  This western inspired shoe will absolutely make your feet stand out among the crowd.  Perfect for a night out, these rodeo kickers will look incredible with a stunning pair of black high waisted shorts and a neon  yellow cropped tank.  Sam Edleman's Warren heels beg the question:  "Do you know the way to San Jose?"

3. Tory Burch 'Tatum' Platform Sandal:  "Come on baby, light my fire..."  Tory Burch's 'Tatum' sandal will heat up any summer evening!  Brights have been a major trend this season, so why not run with it?---(WAIVER: I would not recommend running in these four-inchers though, result: a three stoodge-esque wipe out).  Slapstick humor aside, the candy apple red and gold hardware of these platform sandals would look like simple perfection with summer white denim or a flowy print dress (read as: win/win situation.)

4.  Chloe Platform Sandal:  Extreme platform wedge + ankle wrapped tie + tawny leather + anchoring studs = an equation for sartorial genius.  The Chloe platform sandal is a summer necessary object, and this object of my affection would complete any warm weather look.  Initially when I saw this shoe, I immediately thought denim, but after taking a longer look (aka drooling), I imagined this shoe with lace. A dress of lace confection would be rooted by the heavy platform and hardware studs, resulting in a darling summer pairing.  

Red, White and Blue Basics

Apple pie, baseball, hot dogs, fireworks.  All American staples that serve as ingredients for a fabulous celebration of our country's independence.  Fourth of July weekend is a summer highlight that extends to lake houses, boat rides, beach bonfires, and fun with friends and family.  My personal favorite holiday, I look forward to this weekend every year, and with that anticipation comes contemplation of holiday appropriate outfits.  Check out my patriotic picks for our country's birthday!

1.  Rory Beca La Boca Wrap Romper:  Rompers are the perfect option for a casual outing while still wanting to remain fabulously chic.  The fit is comfortable and the color is appropriate for the weekend's celebrations.  Dressed down with either simple flip flops for a boat cruise, or spruced up with nude platform pumps and a coral necklace for the country club fireworks, this Rory Beca romper will carry you stylishly through the holiday.  

2. Splendid 'Venice' Slubbed Stripe Tank:  This Splendid Nordstrom Exclusive is the prime tank to carry with you on your weekend trip to the lake or beach.  Cotton soft, easily packed, nautical in stripes, perfect for layering, this tank can even double as a swim suit cover up!  Tucked into a color blocked high waisted skirt for a dinner out, or tossed on over jean shorts for a bar-b-que, this tank is a Fourth of July must-have.  

3. Genetic Denim: The Turner Denim Shorts:  If any fabric defines American culture, it would definitely be denim.  These Genetic Denim hot pants are a classic staple for summer, and even more so for Fourth of July.  The wash is versatile and the cuffed bottoms are reminiscent of Daisy Dukes.  With either a printed cropped tank for the day or an oversized oatmeal colored sweater for when the night gets chilly, you'll be happy to have these blue jean babies.

4.  byCORPUS Cutout Tulip-Back Dress: It was love at first sight when I laid eyes on this dress.  The style of the dress is simple and unassuming, but the peak-a-boo cut out in the back of the dress instantly packs sex appeal.  The cinched waist allows for a feminine silhouette and the subtle draping on the back of the dress makes it fashion forward.  Worn with a statement collar necklace and strappy high heeled sandals, you will be sure to make an impression.  

5. Jeffrey Campbell Quarterstrap Platform:  Jeffrey Campbell's shoes put plainly:  to-die-for.  His shoes are unexpected and incredibly trend conscious, but also have an impeccable quality about them.  These flatforms of his jumped off the page at me for two reasons:  their neutral tone allows them to be paired with any color combination, and their versatile style leaves opportunity for all kinds of occasion.  Some may approach the flatform with sartorial caution, but don't hesitate, these JC's will punch up an outfit of any sort.  

6.  Victoria Secret Triangle Bikini Set:  When it comes to swim suits, nothing can beat a white hot string bikini.  With a white bikini comes the easy opportunity to accessorize:  a tribal printed Tory Burch tunic cover up, colored sunglasses, or chunky turquoise.  Not only does this white suit provide a blank canvas for summer styling, but it also happens to look FANTASTIC with a tan!

7.  Ray-Ban RB3025 Large Aviators:  Like denim, Ray Bans are an American classic.  Their Aviators have the ability to look great on any face shape.  Their good looks are balanced by their quality and function.  You won't want to be caught without a pair of these for the sunny days ahead.  

8. Vans American Era Sneakers:  Although these are men's shoes, I couldn't help myself---plus who doesn't indulge in some menswear here and there anyway!  To call these shoes patriotic is an understatement.  I love their flag pattern, and they would make an amazing conversation piece. With either jean shorts, or a simple white dress, you will without a doubt be making a statement! *

*Prerequisite to wearing this shoe:  Must be playing "Proud to Be an American" as background music at all times.