august edit

This is going to sound crazy, but I hadn't been in my apartment's rooftop pool until last night. I've sunbathed on one of the 7th floor chaises plenty of times, but never had the urge to take a dip. Last night, a little case of the Sunday blues compelled me to head up there with a glass of wine because I just didn't want another weekend to end in front of the TV. So boring (sorry Bachelor in Paradise). Just as I'd hoped, I had the sundeck to myself, and it was so nice to bob in the illuminated water and watch the sky turn from pink to orange to black. Probably going to put that scenario on loop till October.

I have several long weekends planned coming up, and with a handful of work events & parties on the iCal, I know the dog days will disappear as quickly as June and July, but at least I'm set up to enjoy them (away from the office)! My wish list this month is a balanced mix of summer and transitional pieces as I look ahead to fall. Shop my picks below to soak up August in style—and get to that rooftop pool while you still can!

one | Slit-Neck Beach Sweater—a lightweight layer that's much cuter to throw on for an evening pontoon cruise than your old college crewneck (on sale!)
two | Modern Friction™ Nature's Gentle Dermabrasion—my skin needs a good sloughing after all the sunscreen and sweat build-up of the last few months (also love this drugstore toner)
three | Victoria Eyelet Top—a sweet summer look that isn't too kiddie-looking, with just a subtle crop that's perfect for al fresco happy hours or brunch
four | Jeffrey Campbell Booties—the perfect pointed profile for every day and only $160!
five | Large Moto Satchel—I love the signature zippers on Rebecca Minkoff bags, and have a thing for jungle-green leather: more interesting than black or brown, but just as versatile
six | Essie polish in Blanc—picked this up at Target last week and it's all I want to wear before I turn to my darker fall favorites
seven | French Terry Joggers—when I moved in the spring, I tossed a ton of ratty sweats and have been relying on leggings for lounging since. But as cooler nights creep up on us, it's time for some real joggers and these are polished enough to wear in public.

july edit.

Back to reality! The flags have been waved, patriotic songs sung (how great was the Spotify Independence Day playlist?!), and summer's hitting its stride. I'm kicking off the first full week of July with this month's bright 'n sunny must-haves.

1 | Embroidered Tunic 

There's a point in July when slip-over-the-head dresses are just the easiest option. This one combines soft jersey comfort with classic embroidery and a timeless silhouette—I love that you can wear it as a beach cover-up or to dinner at the country club (theoretically). 

2 | Bumble & Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil

After attempting to blow-dry my hair this weekend and ending up with an almost-afro, I went straight to my computer to order something smoothing and softening. I neglect my hair enough with only twice-yearly haircuts; time to get real about maintaining between appointments! 

3 | Pineapple Candle

A playful centerpiece to add seasonal festivity to your next backyard patio party (and, appropriately, pineapple-scented)!

4 | Phyto Phytoplage Protective Sun Veil 

There's lots of beauty buzz lately about hair SPF, and since mine's frizz factor soars this time of year, I've been reading up. The verdict: hair doesn't need SPF, but sunlight does dry out strands and make them brittle. Protect, hydrate and get TV-commercial shine with a moisturizing mist. 

5 | Elizabeth & James Addilyn Top 

The subtle flutter on this delicate top is perfection. A fun way to take the off-the-shoulder trend somewhere slightly different (and show off your sunbathing efforts)! 

6 | Aerin Waterlily Sun perfume

Summer calls for a light and fun fragrance. This sheer one is "green and dewy," and the cap looks like a lime! Hello, fresh. 

7 | Metallic slides

As easy as Birkenstocks, but a little more feminine for date nights and wedding showers. 

8 | Chain Necklace 

Oversized to make a statement, but in a simple link construction, not too showy or gaudy. It reminds me of something Kristen Taekman would wear and that girl's got serious style game. Wear. With. Everything!