There is nothing in this world that thrills me more than unboxing new beauty products. Thankfully, it’s my job to do just that, to spotlight the best launches worth adding to your beauty routines.

​In case you missed a few, June saw a healthy number of body products launch. Think SPF for your entire body, not just your face, and a pearly body oil that will make you glisten like a Victoria’s Secret angel while you galivant in the city. If a new skincare routine is in your future, a delightfully sensorial face wash caught and kept my attention, and a new set of exfoliating pads from one of my favorite dermatologist-approved brands made my skin glisten like glass.

​As for my summer makeup routine, I finally found a powder blonzer (or blush-bronzer hybrid) that makes me look perfectly sunkissed, while helping to keep my oily skin at bay. There was also a new mascara that gives sky-high volume with just a few swipes of the wand. Don’t even get me started on the absolutely stunning fragrances that I’ve been obsessed with either. Seriously, there’s something here for anyone and everyone.

​July will see me with my freshest, most dewy skin yet, and of course, I’ll be smelling fantastic too (hint: Bottega Veneta is involved). So if you want to be in the same boat, keep reading to see all the products that Marie Claire editors are loving in June.

Why Trust Marie Claire

For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

We are officially in the throes of summer—100-degree days in New York, iced matcha in hand at all times—and somehow, fall is still all I can think about. Though I'm a certified summer girl through and through, I've been catching myself daydreaming about crisp fall days, oversized sweaters, and the outfits I'll wear once the temperature finally breaks. There's something about the in-between season that always gets me thinking ahead, even while I'm still very much in flip-flops and sweat puddles.

Ahead, a few pre-fall finds worth shopping now, including fresh denim from Calvin Klein, funky bags, and fashion-girl favorites like Onitsuka Tiger sneakers.

This Fourth of July, America turns 250—and while she does look good for her age, some of us aren’t feeling particularly celebratory this year. There are plenty of reasons to feel disaffected by the state of the union, from the war with Iran to the attacks on trans people to the flood of book bans sweeping the nation. So if you're feeling disillusionment, you're certainly not alone. We put together a reading list for those looking to skip (or at least step away from) the BBQs and fireworks—but still hoping to get engaged and think more expansively about the U.S.

Below you’ll find Independence Day book recommendations featuring histories that deserve more attention, memoirs that grapple with American identity, and nonfiction that tackles some of the biggest political issues facing the country today. These books remind us of where we've been and offer perspectives on how we can shape the country's future.

All year long, fashion girls come back to a simple formula: jeans and a top. I know, I know—it doesn't sound groundbreaking, but there's a reason it's the universal language of getting dressed. A great pair of jeans and a crisp top is essentially a blank canvas—it gives your accessories room to stand out and allows you leeway to take risks with the rest of the outfit.

The key, of course, is quality. The formula only works if the foundation is right: clean lines, well-crafted fabric, great denim. Ahead, the five jeans-and-a-top outfits I'm constantly recreating.

A Button-Down, Light Denim, and Flip-Flops

Mixing Black and White Pieces

The Classic White Tee

An Easy Tank Top

A Clean All-White Look

I don’t know if it stems from my days covering acne in my teens, my heavy consumption of makeup YouTube in my 20s, or my current days as a beauty editor with tons of products to get through, but I’m a committed summer foundation wearer. And yes, that includes in the heat of the season. While everyone else is slipping into skin tints or skipping base makeup entirely, your girl is bouncing her BeautyBlender over a nice, pigmented layer of product.

How do I not only tolerate it, but actively enjoy it, even amidst peak NYC humidity? As you might have guessed, there’s an art to wearing foundation in the summertime. “Summer skin is usually a little more active thanks to heat, sweat, and humidity, so I look for foundations that offer ‘buildable’ coverage rather than full, heavy coverage,” says Jamie Greenberg, pro makeup artist and founder of Jamie Makeup. “The goal is to even out the complexion while letting your healthy glow come through.” Finish-wise, celebrity makeup artist Ash K Holm suggests going natural-satin or soft-radiant: “Too matte can look flat in the summer, while super dewy formulas can break down faster in heat,” she explains. “A balanced, flexible finish tends to wear the best.”

Keep an eye out for skincare additions, too, like hyaluronic acid and niacinamide. “These ingredients are great because they help keep the skin looking fresh and hydrated without needing layers of heavy product,” says Holm. “I also love when a summer complexion product has SPF, but I always remind people that foundation with SPF should not replace your actual sunscreen.”

Ready to find your perfect heat- and humidity-friendly foundation? Read on for more tips and picks from the pros, and yours truly.

How Do I Apply Foundation in the Summer?

How you put your summer foundation on matters just as much as the product itself. Celebrity makeup artist Kelsey Deenihan likes to apply thin layers over hydrated skin. “Using less product and building coverage only where needed helps everything look more natural and wear better throughout the day,” she says. And all three MUAs recommend strategic powdering; think the T-zone, chin, and under-eye area. “If you powder your entire face in the summer, you can lose that fresh, healthy glow that makes summer makeup so beautiful,” says Greenberg. Opt for setting spray instead: “it helps melt everything together and keeps the makeup looking fresh instead of powdery,” says Holm.

Current Summer Rotation

These are the two foundation formulas I find myself reaching for this summer. I love them for their lightweight consistency and buildable coverage if I need a little extra help evening my skin tone.

Fan Faves

I might not wear these foundations every day (though I do on occasion!), but they come highly recommended by people I trust.

Skincare-Forward Stars

Makeup that blurs imperfections while actively improving the skin? Sign me up. It's everything I want out of a lightweight foundation this summer.

Classic Formulas, Classic Brands

In a business where products come and go at a whiplash-inducing speed, it’s safe to say that formulas that have lasted 20+ years on the market (with only the occasional cosmetic tune-up) must be doing something right.

Artist for Artists

Who knows what makes a great summer foundation better than a makeup artist? (And maybe a professional foundation tester who lives in Hawaii.) These picks from makeup artist-led brands are also makeup artist-approved.

Why Trust Marie Claire

For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

Meet the Expert

All of a sudden, I've fallen in love with knits. I have to admit—knitted fabric was never among my summer wardrobe go-tos, maybe for obvious reasons. It's like I got bit by some fashion bug of sorts, but I'm not mad about it. Now, not only am I incorporating knit pieces into my wardrobe, I'm actively building outfits around them. The other day I was out enjoying the sun and stumbled upon the cutest crochet jacket from Mango. An inexpensive purchase, this jacket feels and looks luxe, a total win for me.

Beyond crochet—which isn't technically a knitted fabric, but for the sake of this story I'll consider it one—I'm super into knit tanks at the moment. Several have made their way into my “staples pile," since they're so easy to throw on with trousers, summer denim pants, shorts, slip skirts, or any summer skirt.

I've also been gravitating towards full knit sets. My absolute favorite in rotation: the Ulla Johnson Paulina Skirt and Koa top. You can find this set in black and also a lovely ivory (which I'm packing with me for every summer getaway). The black I wore in Lake Como last summer, and whatever you think about black in the summer, I loved the look and felt chic.

I also own the Ulla Johnson set in white. The top is cute with jeans.

In an effort to dress up properly when leaving the house (ciao, workout clothes for errands!) I like to throw on a knit tank with a summer skirt and a mule.

Knits Tanks I Love

Crochet Pieces I Love

I think most people know me as a bag-a-holic, and while I do love a great bag, you'll be surprised to hear that my true love is my shoe collection. I LOVE shoes. I can still remember my Nana's shoe collection as a child. She had some epic collectibles and her passion for beautiful things made her a true character. There's a famous story in my family about my Nana and my Aunt driving through a flood zone when the car started filling up with water. My Nana was so concerned about her shoes getting wet that she was screaming, holding them up above the rising water. They ended up abandoning the car, and my Nana was seen running down Northern Blvd barefoot. She had to protect her crocodile loafers! I can relate to this so deeply, and I think I owe my love of shoe collecting entirely to her.

I consider myself a maximal minimalist and my shoe choices reflect exactly that. Sometimes I go a little more out there, but for the most part they're shoes that can elevate a simple pajama set or jeans and a tee. Let's go through some of my favorite silhouettes and the new-season versions I have my eyes on.

The Ballet Flat

Ahh, my MVP! I live in ballet flats all year round. In summer with a loose linen pant and in winter with trousers and a sock. You can't go wrong with a ballet flat, and I think they have a wonderful ability to polish a look off. My current obsession is the new pony hair by Chanel. I'm wearing them non-stop at the moment with my favorite black cargo pants.

My long-time go-tos are by The Row. They will be the most comfortable shoe you'll ever own. I love how the toe box is slightly elongated. It gives such a sleek look.

And then finally there are these by Phoebe Philo, also with an elongated toe box. I love the patent leather and the shape feels a little edgy.

The Flip-Flop Wedge

A kitten wedge flip-flop is my new favorite summer staple. So chic and so comfortable, which is such a bonus! My number one are these by Prada. Again with the patent leather. I'm very into patent right now.

Second up, I just discovered these by Christopher Esber. I love their footwear.

These by Jude are also a top contender. They feel so '90.

Slinky Satin

Last but not least, I cannot stop buying slinky satin shoes. I'm on a major '90s kick and a satin shoe is just so timeless. My most recent purchase were these by The Row. They're a shoe I'll keep forever. They go with everything from a vintage jean to a black tie gown.

Satin flip-flops, yes please...I cannot stop thinking about these from Alaïa. I love how they're styled with a serious trouser. The gray-blue color also feels very modern.

And last on the satin front, I'm a sneaker girl through and through, and these by Dries Van Noten are so fun. I love the gray and blush combination.

Like I said, I'm a true shoe addict and I'm always down to chat footwear. One parting thought: life is too short for uncomfortable shoes, but it's even shorter for boring ones.

xx

It's hot outside, y'all. I just walked back inside from grabbing an afternoon latte, and even a stroll down the block (between two steaming subway grates, mind you) was enough to make me feel a human ice cream cone melting into the sidewalk. Even with my work bag stacked with cooling products, like hydrating face mists and cryotherapy tools (yes, I'm that girl) I'm finding that I need a little extra help to keep from sweating through my linen shirt and long shorts. Any babes that tend to run hot know the struggle. That's why I've decided to add a personal fan to my essentials list during the summer, and luckily, there are some incredibly chic options on the market right now; the kind that doesn't immediately scream "I'm on a family vacation to Disney World."

"I think people often underestimate how much heat itself, separate from UV light, can drive inflammation and skin dysfunction,” Kseniya Kobets, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and Director of Cosmetic Dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care, previously told Marie Claire. "“When skin overheats, blood vessels dilate, which increases redness, flushing, swelling, and can worsen conditions like rosacea, melasma, acne, eczema, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and allergy reactions.” Obviously, none of those heat-related issues are enjoyable, aside from just the pure discomfort of being outside in extremely high temperatures.

So, if you're also experiencing a relentless heat wave wherever you are in the world (Europe, you're in my thoughts) I highly suggest scrolling through the five best personal fans to help you survive the boiling temps without wasting away in a pool of sweat. These, plus a healthy dose of full-body deodorant, should be enough to get you through the summer heat in style.

Shop the Five Best Personal Fans

Why Trust Marie Claire

For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

Meet the Expert

Harry Styles is a busy man. When he’s not running marathons or taking romantic strolls with Zoe Kravitz, he’s performing his latest album ‘Kiss All The Time, Disco Occasionally’ on the Together, Together tour.

As One Direction fans know, an extended hiatus can quickly turn into forever, so when Styles announced his return to the stage after three years away, securing tickets was a top priority. Luckily, my sister and I were already headed to the South of France just before the first of his London shows, so the only logical option was to make a pit stop at Wembley before heading home. Girl math!

Styles has never shied away from a fashion risk. We’ve seen him embrace everything from quirky matching sets to massive feather coats, but the ‘Together, Together’ era is being defined by tailored separates, unexpected details, and sporty elements. Thanks to stylist Harry Lambert, Styles’s onstage outfits so far have been effortlessly cool while maintaining a playful point of view. The looks haven’t followed a set color scheme or silhouette, leaving space for fans to take inspiration while expressing their personal style.

The result? A sea of fashionable fan outfits that share a common thread, but aren’t exact replicas. For my ensemble, I embraced the "corpcore" vibe in a pair of navy Aritzia pants, a graphic baby tee, and a crisp white button-up. I topped off the ensemble with a thrifted yellow polka dot tie.

Ahead, I've rounded up a selection of pieces to inspire your own Together, Together tour outfit. Whether you’re going full business casual or shining like a disco ball, the best looks are the ones you’re most comfortable in—because trust me, there will be dancing.

When I was in middle school, I dreamt of being a poet. I was enthralled by the rhythmic words of Langston Hughes, and I loved how Maya Angelou could captivate my attention with every simile, alliteration, and metaphor.

So, when I recently learned that Pinterest predicted “poet-core” as one of the top fashion trends of 2026, my inner child was immediately intrigued. The niche aesthetic, according to the visual discovery engine, reflects the quintessential style of an aspiring author or bookworm—think oversized turtlenecks, vintage blazers, and messenger bags. Other literary-inspired staples, like frilly tops and plaid skirts, give the trend its soft, romantic appeal.

As it turns out, “poet-core” is more than just a social media craze—designers are embracing the intellectual style on the runways, too. During the Spring 2026 fashion week circuit, Altuzarra showcased billowing embroidered blouses and high-collar blazers. Months later, the Fall 2026 season brought brooch-adorned coats by Ralph Lauren, delicate neckties from Ulla Johnson, and leather satchels courtesy of Coach. Polished loafers, tilted berets, and chunky knits also emerged as poet-core essentials.

While many of these styles are ideal for autumn and winter, it’s never too early to shop for the upcoming season. Ahead, you’ll discover a curated edit of poet-core pieces, categorized for your convenience. Shop now, and you’ll be ready the moment temperatures drop and leaves start to fall.

Frilly Blouses & Tie-Neck Tops

Embroidered edges, perfectly arranged neckties, and charming lace trims are the romantic details that define a “poet-core” shirt. If you want to elevate your outfit rotation, ditch your flimsy tee for one of the options below. Style this look for the current season with warm-weather separates, such as a miniskirt or a pair of culottes.

Preppy Pants & Plaid Skirts

Nothing says literary chic quite like tailored trousers and plaid skirts. Designed with subtle pleats and sharp silhouettes, these academic-inspired bottoms feel undeniably polished. Play into the preppy look even further with a collared top and a pair of Mary Janes. Oh, and don’t forget the most important accessory—a copy of William Shakespeare's Sonnet 18.

Vintage-Inspired Layers

Sharp blazers, wool-blend jackets, and trench coats can add a strong sense of structure to any look. To go full-on poet-core, opt for checkered patterns and earthy hues. If you need styling inspiration, take a glimpse at the Fall 2026 runways of Ralph Lauren and Chanel.

Chunky Knits

I’ve found that fashion’s poet-core trend is easy to embrace, mostly because I already own many of the aesthetic's key staples (like chunky knitwear). While I have plenty of thick sweaters and cardigans, I’m a firm believer that there’s no such thing as too many knits. For that reason, I have a few on my wish list, including styles from SRG, J.Crew, SNDYS, and Frame.

Poet-Core Accessories

No poet-core outfit is complete without the following accessories. Tap into your inner scholar with berets, brooches, Mary Janes, and satchels. These add-ons instantly offer a touch of personality, and they can even make the most simple ensembles feel more considered.

Up until a few weeks ago, I hadn’t owned jelly sandals as an adult. This isn’t because I don’t like them, but rather that I wasn’t sure I could ever get past the peak jelly-sandal era I lived through in the early ‘90s. Fighting with my two sisters over who called “dibs” on which color at Gap Kids and convincing our mother to get the coordinating rubber raincoats to our designated sandal color was clearly a core memory for me.

With all this delightful nostalgia attached to this shoe style, I didn’t think I needed to relive it. And yet, a water-resistant sandal with great ventilation seems like a great addition to my function-forward New England wardrobe. But how would I make them make sense for me now?

Traditionally, they come in the form of fisherman-style sandals, but I wouldn’t want to replicate the same vibe as the ones I had when I was nine. I would need something that still felt charming but not so juvenile. Enter this fabulous Vince pair that just launched this summer. This narrow babouche slipper style in a grid pattern is a more streamlined, chic version and, as a bonus, has a very comfy padded leather footbed. Side note: I am also very cautious and will wear extra sunscreen on my feet to avoid a potential grid tan, as these stay in constant rotation.

As far as what to wear them with, is “everything” an annoying answer? Yes, but it’s also the right one. The “chive” green of this pair is a pretty traditional army green, so it’s a great neutral, but I also think this style in a pop of color could be just as versatile. I love how my toes are covered in case I’m caught between pedicures, and that when traipsing through dewy grass on the first dog walk of the day, they don’t leave me with a soggy shoe for the rest of the morning.

In terms of reviving the nostalgia of the '90s, I think this pair is the modern answer that still feels just as playful but a little more polished for my adult life. I’ve pulled a few more variations of jellies too that speak to the same sleek sophistication. Here’s how I’ve been wearing them recently.

Jellies With a T-Shirt Dress

For a super sunny summer day of doing a walking backyard garden tour in town, I opted for a “fancy” Prada T-shirt dress I snagged on the RealReal, tied a striped long sleeve around the waist (mainly because the dress is so sheer), grabbed a straw shoulder bag, and slid on my jelly slides. It felt effortless and casual, yet still pulled together enough to be out and about around people, and the jellies were the perfect shoe for strolling through gardens. I clocked about 11,000 steps this day, and these jellies gave me no issue. 10/10 would wear this ‘fit again for brunch or a summer playdate with my kid.

Jellies With Denim-On-Denim

These old Junya Watanabe cropped patchwork jeans from 2013 are my true summer jeans that I wear at least twice a week. Paired with a denim shirt is classic look and adding the jellies felt like “farmers-market fabulous” but I didn’t want to pigeon-hole myself there. So I topped the look off with a polished Chanel mini bag with a silk scarf that brings it off the homestead and into a coastal downtown vibe for lunch al fresco or even a casual happy hour drink. I would probably have just worn my tried and true boat shoes but the jellies feel way more fun and a little more of a considered choice for an otherwise rugged look.

Jellies With a Monochromatic Vibe

Inspired by the raincoats my sisters and I coordinated with our jellies 30 years ago, I decided to lean into the olive green of my jellies for a head-to-toe look. These old Marc Jacobs shorts I got from The RealReal in 2018 are always a summer crowd-pleaser, especially now that board shorts are very hot. I paired them with a dark green Jungmaven linen tee (a summer must-have) and my olive-green nylon Prada backpack, filled with water bottles and sunscreen, for a morning of strawberry picking. I might have been the only person wearing runway Marc Jacobs at the berry patch, but I somehow didn’t feel out of place. I’m crediting the low-key charm of the jellies for that.

As a Midwestern gal who loves a good state fair, I learned long ago that almost everything is better when consumed or presented in stick format. Corn dogs, fried pickles—you get the point. So when skincare that took on the same form came across my beauty editor desk these past few months, to say I was intrigued would be an understatement. As for the shining stars of this budding category? Serum sticks—and I'm not the only one who agrees.

Muneeb Shah, MD, who you likely know online as @doctorly, says one of the biggest advantages of a serum stick is its precision. "Most serums are designed to be applied with your hands, which works well for the face, but can be messy or inefficient when you're targeting specific areas like the neck, jawline, chest, or backs of the hand. A stick allows you to apply the product exactly where you want it without dripping or wasting product," he explains.

Another bonus? Serum sticks are incredibly convenient. When skincare is easy to use, you're more likely to use it consistently—and it's more likely to work. "Consistency is what ultimately drives results," adds Dr. Shah. "The format isn't just about convenience; it's about helping people treat areas they often neglect, like the neck and décolleté, which are some of the first places we start to see visible signs of aging."

Ahead, discover 10 of the best serum sticks on the market, all ready to be applied exactly (and I mean exactly) how you see fit.

Serum Stick MVPs

Though there aren't as many serum sticks on the market as there are actual serums (you can find serums for mature skin, serums packed with actives, hydrating serums, and on and on and on), the category is expanding quickly. These are the formulas I return to again and again, despite constantly testing what's new.

Glass Skin Awaits

Now, we're going to look at some hydrating serums designed to give you a glass-skin glow. Because they create an occlusive layer on the skin, balms already offer a nice moisturizing effect by locking in hydration. Add some extra skin-loving ingredients to the mix and we're really talking.

Retinol Round Up

Retinol is everything, so it only makes sense that some great retinol stick serums would join the lineup here. "For products containing retinaldehyde, I generally recommend starting a few nights a week and increasing frequency as your skin adjusts," notes Dr. Shah. "The goal isn't to use the strongest product possible; it's to use one that you can tolerate consistently."

Liquids to Sticks

Something interesting has been happening in the stick serum market. We're seeing formulas we already love translated into a new format. And no, you don't lose any effectiveness when using a stick serum versus a classic liquid.

"The effectiveness of a skincare product comes from the formulation and delivery of the ingredients, not whether it's a liquid, cream, or stick," explains Dr. Shah. "In fact, an anhydrous stick format can actually offer formulation advantages for certain ingredients because it minimizes exposure to water, which can help support ingredient stability. The key is making sure the active ingredients are formulated to remain effective and are delivered evenly to the skin."

Complexion Perfectors

Can't wait long for your serum stick to fully do the work? I get it. While I wait for the other options on this list to really kick in (with consistent, sustained use), here are some tinted serum sticks that offer immediate skin-perfecting properties—plus all the same skin-loving ingredients as every other option on this list.

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For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion, and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

Meet the Expert

This summer you can find me outside. After the past three summers of being pregnant, breastfeeding, or the nonstop chasing of an almost two-year-old, I’m ready to have some fun. And by fun I mean drinks out. To commemorate a summer of feeling more like my nightlife-loving self again, I styled three outfits inspired by my favorite cocktails of this oh-so-fleeting season. And everyone is invited—no actual booze is necessary to participate! Much like my “pop of citrus” theory, dressing like a drink brings whimsy and joy to building summer outfits when it’s almost too hot to be creative. Luckily, it’s still chilly enough at night for my brain to be active, so I went to my closet, pulled my best ingredients, and decided to shake things up. From Mudslides to Dark ‘n Stormy’s and Hugo spritzes, here’s what and how I’m serving my take on these classics. Cheers!

Dressing Like a…Mudslide

Mudslides are a quintessential New England summer drink, and to match the vibe of the frozen, chocolatey, and borderline messy cocktail, I wanted a casual outfit that felt fun and kind of silly. I recently visited Nantucket, customized a pair of sneakers with Reebok and Cru of Two PR, and ended the evening with an obligatory mudslide (and a half, if you must know). The sneakers with playful mismatched laces are the anchor of the look, which I paired with an oversized men’s secondhand Ralph Lauren polo in white with brown stripes, which I fashioned into a dress with a cinched belt-bag waist. I topped the look with a Nantucket Reds bucket hat for a true homage to the vibe. This one felt like a low-key, day-drinking-with-the-masses outfit, especially with sun coverage, a hands-free handbag, and a comfortable shoe for standing. See you at the bar.

Dressing Like a… Dark and Stormy

To me, this outfit feels very 2016, which tracks because I also used to drink quite a few Dark and Stormy’s around that time, especially in Bermuda, where the drink originated. But, like the outfit, you simply can’t go wrong with a classic. A Gosling’s Rum (no other can be used, sorry) shade of dark brown SoldOut.The NYC tee, paired with a ginger-beer-shade of gold silk skirt, mimics the combo, and my Margaux ballet flats are clearly the slice of lime. A basket bag secures the whole thing as a summer ‘fit that’s perfectly day-to-night, just like the drink.

Dressing like a…Hugo Spritz

I definitely drank one of these in 2021 during Milan Fashion Week, but my kid’s Gen Z sitter insists that a Hugo Spritz is the drink of Summer 2026, so I’m listening to her. It’s a Gen Z’s world, and I just live in it! This outfit, with pieces I also procured in 2021, feels just like the simple sophistication of this cocktail and is exactly what I’d like to be wearing when I’m drinking it. The soft cream of this cashmere Ralph Lauren find and old Sergio Rossi sandals is the shade of prosecco, and the floral lace of this secondhand Chanel skirt is a nod to the spritz's signature elderflower note. A green Lindquist tote represents a healthy sprig of mint, and now I feel breezy, sophisticated, and dare I say, kind of Italian? Perfetto for a rooftop Hugo Spritz at sunset.

Finding fashionable workwear is a year-round challenge, but something about summer makes it even harder. Navigating the transition between sweltering commutes and icy air conditioning is never easy, especially if you want to look good doing it. Add in shopping for plus sizes (which are mostly online lately), and it starts to feel like a whole ordeal.

Fortunately, there are some chic, summer-friendly, and often underrated in-office, plus-size options out there. Ahead, get to know some of my top workwear brands as a plus-size fashion expert and blogger.

Eloquii for Stylish Suiting

I’ve wear-tested the majority of plus-size workwear brands on the market. One of my overarching takeaways is that plus-specific brands are a great place to start if you are looking for a great fit in blazers and trousers.

Eloquii is a perfect example. I’ve been a fan of the New York-based brand's statement suits for over a decade now, collecting them in every shape, color, and print. Creative director Yesenia Torres keeps her eye on upcoming trends, and you can always find both classic suits and of-the-moment takes from the brand.

This summer-perfect, short-sleeve edition is my latest obsession. The light color keeps things cool, the voluminous pleat-front pants fit like a dream, and I absolutely love the hourglass’s structured curve.

My only recommendation is to definitely size up once if you are fuller busted like me. My usual size here is a bit too snug through the chest for the average office, but going up one size will accommodate a large chest, no problem. I still feel powerful and sharp in this size, but I know from firsthand experience how much controversy even the tiniest bit of cleavage can cause in some offices. So, I recommend adding a lightweight, silk tank top underneath if you want more coverage.

Spanx for Surprisingly Soft Workwear

I know, I know: Famed shapewear brand Spanx is probably not the first name that comes to mind when you think of airy summer office attire, but it should absolutely be on your radar! With sizes up to 3x and an assortment of signature fabrics specifically engineered to be breathable, it’s actually a great option for warm weather workwear. I love the brand-new EasyBreezy cotton-linen blend (especially in wide leg trousers).

Even though it is more mid-weight, Spanx's popular Supersmooth ponte knit pant (with built-in shaping) is still comfortably wearable on a hot day. But of all the styles I tried, this impeccable draped sheath dress stood out as the summer workwear pick.

It might look indistinguishable from a standard structured sheath dress (a plus when it comes to office-wear, to be clear), but it feels like pajamas. The Airessentials fabric is another Spanx signature, made specifically to be breathable and gloriously soft. It's wrinkle resistant, too—something very appreciated when your days involve long stretches of sitting at your desk!

Now that I know how summer-friendly this fabric is, I’m going to be keeping an eye out for other pieces in Airessentials. The only asterisk I’d add for this dress is that it runs a little large, so I’d consider sizing down if you are torn between two sizes. I got my usual 2x and it works well on me, but it’s certainly more loose-fitting than other Spanx items I tried in the same size.

Lane Bryant and Lysse for Sharp Separates

Not every office calls for a full-on suit or even a dress, but sometimes, denim is a touch too casual. In those instances, work-ready separates from Lane Bryant and Lysse are just the thing. Lane Bryant has the benefit of being the longest running plus-size brand. Over a hundred years of fit experience shows up in the way plus size figures are considered in the designs. I’m a big fan of the Perfect Drape trousers, and I tell everyone who will listen that Lane Bryant makes the best plus-size capris on the market.

But the label’s thoughtful silhouettes aren’t just found in pants. Take this sleeveless button-down, for example: The slight swing silhouette gives ease around the midsection and there is still some shape built into the top to keep it from looking too boxy. This style also looks fantastic tucked into a pencil skirt or a pair of wide leg trousers. It can also be easily layered under a blazer if you need arm coverage (or have one of those arctic-level office air conditioners!)

For this look, I paired the sleeveless Oxford with Lysse pants, another of my workwear go-tos. A New York City label that initially focused on leggings, Lysse’s catalog has evolved to include so much more, and I am particularly fond of the pull-on pants. True to the brand’s roots, their bottoms feel like supportive leggings, but look like real pants. The patented compression waistband makes everything lay flat with no squeezing, and the cotton gabardine’s four-way stretch is happily wrinkle resistant. The track pants-inspired side stripes add a sporty vibe that offsets classic pointy pumps.

This look is perfect for more business casual dress codes, and the neutral color means you can add your desk jacket if the AC spikes too high. Form and function! And if you like this shape but prefer covered shoulders, Lysse has a similar poplin button-down with cuffed short sleeves!

Working in the summer is quite literally the worst. Not only does it feel like everyone in the world is having fun except you (even if most people are also reporting to an office), but the countdown to summer Friday freedom and your vacay PTO feels like it’s crawling by. As a freelancer, I broke free from this cycle, but in turn have traded weekends for workdays and a general lack of awareness of what day of the week it is. I am familiar with the struggle of getting office-ready in scorching temps while enduring frigid AC blasting simultaneously—always a challenge! In this predicament of dueling environments, footwear needs to be carefully considered. It depends on your office dress code and personal preference, but no, I do not think showing your feet in an office setting is particularly appropriate. I am also a very cautious sandal wearer in general. Most feel too dressy, sporty or beachy to wear in work-appropriate situations, so I normally gravitate toward closed-toe options that feel seasonally suitable. I’m talking woven leather, canvas, and suede to add a touch of summery earthiness to a work ‘fit that doesn’t feel out of place inside the building or outside for happy hour. Your preserved pedicure will thank you once it’s released to the world on Saturday at the beach.

Try a Canvas Loafer

Loafers are one of the most versatile shoes I own, so I cannot imagine not having at least two pairs in different fabrications for year-round styling. A canvas pair adds lightness and natural texture, spicing up otherwise boring office basics with some seasonal flair. Well-designed shirtdresses are a secret style weapon of mine that I think everyone should have in their weekday wardrobe, so naturally I paired one of my favorites (I have several) with these canvas loafers for a put-together look that takes very little effort on busy mornings. I gave the loafers another summery companion with a straw box bag since I’m kind of fun like that, but a go-to leather work bag can be fine here as well.

Try a Woven Ballet Flat

I love a ballet flat all year long, but sometimes they are not so nice on summer feet. This style specifically tends to be a snug-fitting shoe so if your feet get hot (sweaty or slightly swollen) this will cause some friction. Enter the crochet leather flat. Offering breathability without showing off toes, this closed-toe wonder is a summer shoe must-have for office days or otherwise. I popped mine on with printed silk trousers, a fitted tank top and a sleek black leather bag to make it a little more serious. If I was going into an air-conditioned office, I’d probably add a simple cardigan in a solid neutral color to lean into the retro-feeling silhouette of this outfit.

Try a Suede Mule

Chocolate suede somehow feels a little less harsh than a closed-toe black leather shoe in the middle of summer. The texture still reads polished but with a touch of rustic approachability, but not in a way that is too casual for the office. An open-back mule is basically like a reverse sandal, so there is airflow without showing too much of the foot, but just make sure the heels are moisturized; otherwise, you’ll kill the look. I definitely think it’s cool to lean into summer style by mixing textures, so I ran with a floral silk blouse, white pleated mini, woven belt, and a pop of green bag, and the earthy chocolate brown grounded the whole look without feeling western or bohemian.

I have one motto for this summer and one motto only: "When I’m outside, it’s lip gloss and vibes." Of course, this means that only the best of the best formulas will be in my tiny purse this summer, and it’s like Chanel heard my cries and decided to release (or, in this case, re-release) one of my favorite new makeup products just in time: The Rouge Coco Hydra Gloss, a new iteration of its famous lip formula that is replacing the previous version, the Rouge Coco Gloss Moisturizing Glossimers.

As with all iconic beauty product reformulations, I was pretty skeptical about the change at first, because in my eyes, the previous formula was pretty much perfect. But Chanel Beauty has officially made me eat my words, and you heard it here first: I adore this new iteration.

While the previous version had a lot of tackiness, I found it wasn't as shiny as some of my thicker formulas, like M.A.C.’s lipglass. This meant I had to reapply quite often to get the shine I was looking for. Still, that was never a problem for me, because who doesn’t want to take out their absolutely adorable Chanel lip gloss and have a main-character moment at the function? Exactly. Still, this new formula takes my love of this lip gloss to new heights, and if you were also skeptical about this reformulation, don't worry: you’re about to love this new version, too.

​I get into the specifics of this new formula ahead, and if the forthcoming holiday weekend has activated the shoppies for you, I also recommend a few additional Chanel Beauty products that I simply can’t stop obsessing over.

The Formula

As is to be expected from a gloss, the formula is viscous and imparts a latex-like shine on the lips. There are 18 shades to choose from, ranging from milky pinks to deep reds, and even a few unexpected colors like the jade-green hue Éclectique. It’s a solid offering that’s perfect for the everyday makeup enthusiast and professional artists alike, so anyone should be able to find their new go-to color.

There appear to be two finishes in the line—one that’s glittery and the other that’s more of a subtle shimmer. My only gripe with the line is that the colors in the former category, while they provide a glassy, mirror-like shine, feel a tiny bit gritty on the lips. It’s not to the point where it feels like I just put on a lip scrub, and it’s not so disruptive that I don't want to use the formula. However, it is noticeable enough for me to be cognizant of it, so if you’re also one of those people who have slight sensory issues as I do, I highly recommend testing these glosses in person before purchasing.

The Ingredients

This formula boasts what Chanel calls the Hydra-Peptide Complex, which, according to the ingredient list, appears to be a combination of various oils and waxes. You’ll find hibiscus and camellia seed oil, both of which are extremely moisturizing and reinforce the lip’s moisture barrier. These glosses also contain sunflower seed and rice wax, both of which lock in moisture without added weight and help boost the gloss's shine. Top this off with additional ingredients like C10-30 cholesterol/lanosterol and jojoba esters, which soften the lips and act as an emollient, respectively, and you have a recipe for one of the shiniest, lightweight lip gloss formulas on the market.

The Application

The application is as flawless as it’s always been. There’s a doe-foot applicator that helps dispense the product onto the lips with ease, and its slight divet ensures it hugs each lip perfectly. It also dispenses the perfect amount of product with each swipe, as even when I build up the layers of gloss that I have on, I just get more shine, never too much excess product to the point where it feels sticky or goopy on my mouth.

The Takeaway

We can all take a big sigh of relief that one of the best high-end glosses on the market is still as good as we all remember it being (dare I say that it’s even better?). The shine these provide is light-years ahead of the previous formula, and while some shades were discontinued (Rose Naif, you have my heart), the replacements are practically the same, so there are really no gaps in the color range. It’s a relaunch that has earned my stamp of approval. But while you’re shopping the new line, it doesn't hurt to stock up on a few more of my favorites from the brand below, right?

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In my 30s, I told myself I wanted to dress more practically without losing the plot stylistically. So, I’ve been approaching my outfits like a low-stakes science experiment.

• Observation: what I’m actually drawn to (and what I see everywhere)
• Hypothesis: what might work for my proportions (i.e. my short torso) and my life
• Experimentation: wearing it, moving in it, seeing what holds up by 4 p.m. and what needs adjusting
• Analysis: outfit photos—always

Through a lot of trial and error—and finally giving up on crop tops—I’ve figured out what consistently works for my short torso: tunics, low-rise pants, and anything that plays with layering or adds length. Here are the style hacks I’m leaning on this season.

Add Length to Your Hemline

Realizing I could add length to pieces I already owned—like all the cropped jackets I bought PST (pre short torso-awareness)—helped calm the panic that came with thinking I needed to abandon hope and everything in my closet.

Whether it’s an apron skirt, long silk or fringe scarf, or a sweater, adding a layer with length can give the illusion of a longer torso, especially when I’m wearing pieces with hemlines that hit above the hip.

By pining instead of tying a sweater or shirt around my hips, I was able to position it lower on my body and create a longer visual line.

Tunics and Longline Tops

As a millennial, accepting that crop tops aren’t my strongest silhouette felt like a formal grieving process. The silhouette can read harsh when your torso is on the shorter side. Tunics create a chic balance, draw the eye downward, and even out my proportions.

When I’m shopping, the hip bone test reigns supreme: if a top hits above it, I know I’m headed for disappointment.

Asymmetric Dresses over Trousers

Whenever I don’t know what to wear but still want to look intentional, an asymmetric dress over trousers is my failsafe. The asymmetry makes the overall silhouette feel longer and more balanced. My eureka moment was realizing that with a vintage pin or brooch I could create an asymmetrical draped silhouette using pieces already in my closet.

Low Rise Pants

When your torso is on the shorter side, a higher rise can feel like it’s flirting with your ribcage. This sensation, paired with a night out, has a short shelf life. My favorite combination is a sheer tunic and low-rise pants, which satisfies my devotion to ’90s minimalism and is a nod to an underrated fictional style icon, Joan Clayton. Low-rise pants are one of the few silhouettes that actually solve a proportion problem for me without having to do much. It’s difficult not to invoke an air of sexiness in black low rise pants, a simple longline black tank, and slingbacks.

You Have To Get Experimental With Untucking Your Shirt

I live in button-ups and trousers. I am almost exclusively non-tuck when it comes to my daily iterations of this look because of my short torso—think Phoebe Philo collection D—but I noticed that my aspirations were being heavily influenced by my Pinterest board full of tucked-in looks.

Tucking in my shirt all the way makes my torso look shorter than it actually is, especially when I was styling it the way I saw others pulling it off—with mid-rise pants and a classic leather belt. After fidgeting in the mirror to arrive at the right percentage point of tucked in, I finally honed in on my new favorite method: partially tucking in an oversized white button-down into a leather midi skirt. At 20-30 percent tucked, the look is billowy, it’s sleek, it’s not shortening everything above my waist.

My findings?

Dressing for my short torso didn’t follow a strict formula. I had to strengthen my understanding of proportions on the fly and actually play in my closet to discern which trends earned long-term real estate in my closet (and on my feed) and which are better admired from afar. After 386 photos and 78 hours in the field, and a massive pile on my bed that took days to clean up, I’ve found that a little extra length—whether through a scarf, a lower rise, or a longer hemline—is my constant variable when getting dressed.

Historically, I've spent hours washing, drying, and styling my hair, only to watch it fall flat and frizz up within minutes as humidity, wind, or rain messes with all my diligent work. But earlier this year, I made one simple, quick, and sometimes (at least by me) overlooked step in my hair routine, and it changed everything: hairspray. Yes, the somewhat old school product has found new life in 2026, and honestly, the best hairsprays are key to locking in my style and helping it withstand the elements.

Simply put, hairspray "helps to hold and keep shape in a hairstyle," says Christine Marie Kim, a hairstylist at Flore Salon in Los Angeles. "It can also be used to manage frizz and flyaways." Sure, it's a classic hairstyling must-have, but there have been so many innovations on the market that the beauty world has long moved on from the foggy sprays, chemical-laden formulas, and sticky finishes. Rather, the new hairsprays on the block feature fresh, distinct fragrances, chic packaging, and sometimes even good-for-your-hair ingredients like biotin or vitamins to boost your hair's health.

Beyond delivering hold, shape, and longevity, they also offer a slew of other benefits. "Depending on the formula, it can also add texture, humidity protection, shine, or flexible movement," says Rick Wellman, celebrity colorist and salon owner at The Salon Project. "Today’s best sprays are often lightweight, brushable, and touchable while still giving support and memory to the hair." Sold? Keep scrolling to read about the 10 best hairsprays that are stylist-approved to keep your style exactly how you like it.

The Best Hairsprays

• Best Overall Hairspray: L'Oréal Paris Elnett Classic Hairspray
• Best Drugstore Hairspray: Tresemmé Extra Hold Hairspray
• Best Scented Hairspray: Davines This is a Medium Hairspray
• Best-Smelling Hairspray: Dae Sunsetter Hairspray
• Best Strong Hold Hairspray: Kenra Professional Volume Spray 25

What Should I Look for in a Hairspray?

Make sure to consider how you'll be using the hairspray each day to ensure you get the best results for you. "I always tell clients to shop based on the finish and feel they want," says Wellman. Kim notes that updos likely require a strong-hold hairspray, but otherwise, you don't need something super strong for everyday use. "If you aren’t too comfortable with styling products, I would say try to opt for a lighter hold or medium hold hairspray," she recommends. "They tend to be more flexible while still offering hold."

Once you've been using hairspray for a while, make sure to note any buildup on your scalp (consider using a clarifying shampoo a few times a month to detoxify and remove buildup from styling products). "A great hairspray should support the style without making the hair feel coated, sticky, or dull after repeated use," says Wellman.

Does Hairspray Work on All Hair Textures?

Definitely, but make sure to choose the right one. "Fine hair generally benefits from lightweight, flexible sprays that won’t collapse volume, while thicker or textured hair may need stronger humidity resistance and hold," says Wellman.

As for those with curly and textured hair, they "can absolutely use hairspray, especially for definition, frizz control, and maintaining shape, but I usually recommend softer, moisture-friendly formulas rather than overly drying aerosol sprays," he adds.

How Do I Apply Hairspray?

First things first, make sure you're holding the hairspray can at the right distance. "The biggest mistake people make is spraying too close to the hair," says Wellman, who recommends holding it about 10 to 12 inches away. If you aren't good with estimating, try Kim's trick: "When in doubt, use the hairspray can’s length as the distance to spray from your hair," she notes. Wellman adds that it's important to "layer lightly rather than saturating the hair all at once."

As for the actual technique of it all? I still like the old-school way of flipping the hair upside down to spray and then flipping back up for that sexy undone volume," says Wellman. For movement and soft hold, "mist it in the air and let the hair fall through it," he adds. And for strong control, "target specific areas like the root, hairline, or finished style," he says. If you're still seeing some pesky hairs pop up, you can also try Kim's trick: "I like to spray some hairspray directly onto my hands and fingers and fix the hairline or flyaways that way," she says.

Why Trust Marie Claire

For more than 30 years, Marie Claire has been an internationally recognized destination for news, fashion and beauty trends, investigative packages, and more. When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes personally recommended by a Marie Claire writer or editor, or by an expert we’ve spoken to firsthand.

Meet the Experts

Most Coveted is a shopping series sharing our editors' curation of the must-know items they can't stop thinking about.

Now that summer is in full swing, it's time I share what's sitting in my virtual shopping cart. If you read the headline, you'll know I have quite a few Bermuda shorts, button-downs, and summer beauty items on my list. The undertone of this roundup is sporty and ready for a season spent outside. I've got your perfect World Cup watch party outfit, a GNO outfit, and brand-new glowy makeup buys that will make you look like you just came from the beach, even if you sat in a Midtown office all day. To shop all these picks and more, keep scrolling.

Casual Friday used to imply that the other four days of the week had a clear-cut dress code. There was a shared understanding of what "looking professional" meant—and, just as importantly, what it didn't. That consensus no longer exists.

Hybrid work blurred the line between office clothes and everything else. Startup culture challenged the idea that authority requires a uniform. Gen Z made corporate cosplay feel outdated. At the same time, women's lives have become less compartmentalized. The same person likely now moves between meetings, errands, social plans, travel, or a second shift of unpaid parenting at home—in less than 24 hours.

Summer simply makes those realities harder to ignore. The practical considerations of getting dressed—staying comfortable in the heat, navigating aggressively air-conditioned offices, finding shoes that can handle a full day, carrying everything you need, and dressing for schedules that don't abruptly end at 5 p.m.—collide with the lingering expectation that women should look put-together but approachable, stylish but not distracting, comfortable but never careless.

Rather than offering another list of officewear dos and don’ts, we wanted to understand how people are actually navigating their version of the workplace. So we asked 12 women across fashion, beauty, design, media, and business what they’re actually wearing this summer. Some spend their days in meetings. Others are sourcing, consulting, creating, traveling, building businesses, or managing teams. What they share is the need for clothes that can keep up without flattening their personal style.

Shorts at work are tricky, but not impossible. Start with proportion, says global sourcing and personal shopping expert Gab Waller, especially if you’re petite: the wrong length can swallow you up fast. From there, it’s about the pieces around them. Waller likes a collared shirt, structured bag, and Chanel ballet flats to shift the tone. Jeanelle Teves, chief commercial officer at Bugaboo and founder of Work Lunch, approaches shorts the same way she approaches any other part of her work uniform: with intention. “The question is less, ‘Do these shorts work for the office?’ and more, ‘Does the overall outfit communicate professionalism, executive presence, and confidence?’” she says. The takeaway is to treat shorts like summer trousers: choose pleats, structure, a higher waist, and a neutral color, then style them with the same pieces you’d wear to a meeting—a striped button-down, lightweight blazer, classic belt, loafers, or a low heel. Save distressed denim, graphic tees, flip-flops, and anything too tight or too short for the weekend.

Work shoes used to be judged by how they looked. Now they're judged by how long they last. Stylist Amanda Kraemer says comfort is no longer something to hide or apologize for—it's the starting point. Elizabeth Giardina, design director at Another Tomorrow, agrees. She spends her days commuting, moving between fittings, and running from meeting to meeting, so she's not interested in suffering through discomfort or carrying a second pair of shoes. Her litmus test is simple: a comfortable shoe feels good when you first put it on, but a truly wearable one still feels good eight or ten hours later.

That has changed the shape of the office shoe itself. The pairs that make the most sense now are softer and easier to move in: loafers that don’t need breaking in, mesh or ballet flats that can handle subway stairs, fisherman sandals that still work with trousers, and slim sneakers that don’t read as gym shoes. The best pair is the one you don’t think about again until you take it off.

The biggest shift in workwear isn't that women stopped wearing tailoring—it's that they stopped wearing it so literally. The power suit hasn't disappeared; it's just been broken apart. Today's version is more likely to be an oversized blazer, relaxed trousers, and a tank than a matching set. In summer, that often means swapping crisp button-downs for lighter layers and choosing natural fabrics that breathe.

Angela Vranich, co-founder and chief product officer of Little Spoon, is especially focused on fit: wide-leg trousers need the right hem, and an oversized blazer works best with something more fitted underneath. Emilie Rose Hawtin, founder of Clementina, takes a similar approach to styling. She prefers tonal separates over anything too coordinated, with one strong accessory—a bag, shoe, scarf, or belt—to keep the whole thing from feeling like a uniform. The result is tailoring that still has authority, just with more room to move.

The desk sweater has become a permanent office resident. Whether it’s a cardigan, blazer, shawl, or grandpa sweater draped over the back of a chair, most people have some kind of backup layer within reach. Interior designer Julia Costanzo calls hers an “emotional support sweater", but her best advice is to keep it neutral enough to work with almost everything.

A summer workday can mean a freezing subway car, a sweaty platform, an office that’s either freezing or unnecessarily hot, and a sunny walk home. “The layer has become just as important as the outfit itself,” says shoe designer Marina Larroudé. That’s why the desk sweater isn’t really a styling trick. It’s more of a survival strategy. And it doesn’t have to be a sweater. Writer Arabelle Sicardi recommends “a chic scarf that can pull double duty for anything,” which is exactly the point: keep something close that can help you adjust without ruining the outfit.

Ten years ago, a work bag just had to get you from home to the office and back. Now it has to survive an entire day: a commute, meetings, errands, maybe dinner after. “The perfect work bag has to keep up with all of that,” says Joyce Lee, creative director of Parker Thatch and author of Time Less. Her checklist is practical: laptop, charger, water bottle, beauty pouch, and a smaller bag tucked inside for dinner.

Rory Satran, a writer, editor, and consultant, says your work bag should be “big enough for a laptop, obviously, but not so big that it evokes the ‘ludicrously capacious bag’” from Succession. She looks for unfussy bags with little branding, a tight structure, and ideally a zip—especially if trains or planes are involved.

In summer, that doesn’t always mean leather. Hairstylist Kadi Lee relies on oversized totes, raffia bags, and vintage woven baskets that can handle a laptop, lab samples, house calls, and even the beach. The best work bags no longer exist in a separate category. They’re just good bags that happen to make it through the workday.

Whoever said romance novels have no substance was, first of all, wrong—but certainly hasn't read Kennedy Ryan. Though the novelist, who writes under a pen name, has been dubbed the “Queen of Hugs” by her fans for her welcoming embraces at book signings, Ryan’s emotion-driven books are anything but fluff, tackling deeper issues such as mental health and neurodivergence, social injustices, and climate change.

Ryan told Elle that the more profound subject matter she infuses into her traditionally light-hearted genre reflects the writing she wants to see out in the world. “I want to see people who are usually on the periphery—those identities, communities, and experiences—moved to the center,” she said. “I want to see marginalized voices represented. Once I had that level of intentionality, it formed a blueprint for my writing that I think started right around Long Shot. And that’s been the blueprint ever since.”

The formula has certainly landed with readers. She’s amassed more than half a million followers on TikTok, claimed several spots on The New York Times Best Sellers lists, and landed a “first-look” deal at Universal that will not only enable her to develop one of her own steamy works for the small screen but also develop various projects for others.

Before she expands her universe, however, we're paying homage to her journey thus far: Ryan has more than 20 titles to her name, and we’ve taken the liberty of ranking the top 10. Below are the best Kennedy Ryan books—including some of her steamiest reads.

The Best Books by Kennedy Ryan, Ranked

What is Kennedy Ryan's most popular book?

Ryan’s most famous book is the first novel in her Skyland series, Before I Let Go. Upon its debut, the book found a devoted following on #BookTok as much as it became a critical darling, landing on year end lists.

The author herself has spoken about the book's resonance and how its success catapulted her career to the next level. IIn an interview with Bookpage, she explained what inspired her to write it. "Before I Let Go was the third book I wrote during the pandemic," she said. "I had my annual check-up right before COVID hit, and my doctor expressed concern that I had several early indicators for depression. I never understood how debilitating depression and neglecting your mental health could be until I couldn’t get out of bed. Until I couldn’t make it through a day, sometimes through an hour, without crying. Until I was having panic attacks regularly. There was no room for creativity because I honestly was just trying to survive."

Once Ryan found her footing ("It took finding the right therapist…and the right medication for me to start feeling better"), she channeled that experience into the novel’s protagonist, Yasmen Wade, who struggles with her own depression in the wake of a stillbirth and the death of a loved one. "With Yasmen's journey, I wanted to convey the importance of putting yourself first. Women—moms and wives especially—often put everyone before themselves. I wanted this to be about a woman who esteems her personal, emotional and mental well-being above all else," Ryan said. "Choosing herself becomes a matter of survival."

What order should I read Kennedy Ryan's books in?

Ryan’s books can be read in several different ways. With seven different series to choose from—All the King's Men, The Bennetts, Grip, Hollywood Renaissance, Hoops, Skyland, and Soul—you can choose the character arcs and worlds that best align with your interests.

The series for which Ryan is most-known, the Skyland series, is about Yasmen, Soledad, and Hendrix, a close-knit trio of Black women who lean on each other for support while juggling high-stakes careers, romantic reconciliations, and family struggles. It kicks off with Ryan’s most famous book, Before I Let Go, and is followed by This Could Be Us and Can’t Get Enough.

Ryan’s most recent series, the Hollywood Renaissance series consists of Reel, The Close-Up, and Score and was inspired by the Harlem Renaissance. True to the series title, its characters are all navigating the entertainment industry (and their love lives) in various ways—Reel’s Neevah Saint is a Broadway understudy, for instance, while Score’s Verity Hill is a screenwriter. “It felt like a natural era to explore when I was examining overlooked accomplishments by Black creatives,” Ryan told The New York Times of the trilogy.

The All the King’s Men series, meanwhile, features The Kingmaker, The Rebel King, and Queen Move deals with social justice. The third entry is a standalone novel, but the first two books focus on Lennix Hunter's fight for the rights to her people's ancestral land against the nefarious Cade Oil company. The only problem? She’s gone and fallen for the company’s heir—A.K.A. the source of her people’s pain.

If sports romances are more your bag, you’ll want to skip straight to the Hoop series, which includes three interconnected standalone novels (Long Shot, Block Shot, and Hook Shot), a special edition book called Hoops Holiday (to be read after Block Shot, per Ryan’s website) and a novella (Hoops Shorts) that ties them all together.

The Grip series (Flow, Grip, and Still) also focuses on the entertainment industry, but with a more modern feel: The Black rapper/poet at its center, Marlon “Grip” James, is building a musical empire while navigating a romance plagued by socioeconomic challenges with his White manager.

Those with a penchant for music will appreciate the aptly-named Soul series—a three part chronicle of the blossoming love between Kai Pearson, a Georgia native on a mission to make it as a singer/songwriter, and rock star Rhyson Gray. (Start with My Soul To Keep before picking up Down To My Soul and Refrain.)

Last but not least, there’s Ryan’s first-ever series, The Bennetts. Ryan’s tetralogy may not be Austen-related, but the characters in When You Were Mine, Loving You Always, Be Mine Forever, and Until I’m Yours, are dealing with just as many interpersonal intricacies as those in Pride and Prejudice, if not more. The couple at its center, Kerris Moreton and her fiancé’s BFF Walsh Bennett, are in a tricky position, indeed.

Are any of Kennedy Ryan's books being adapted into movies or TV shows?

At least one of Ryan's novels, Before I Let Go, is being adapted into a TV series on Peacock, per Variety—and more of the author's projects may follow suit. The outlet reported in April 26 that Ryan has landed a “first-look” deal with Universal Studio Group that will enable her to develop various projects. “What I am most excited about is the opportunity to identify other authors’ work, especially marginalized authors, and to shepherd those projects from book to screen,” Ryan told the New York Times. “We are seeing an explosion in romance adaptations right now, and I want to see more Black, brown and queer authors.”

In addition to Ryan, who is co-writing and executive producing the script for the Before I Let Go series, Malcolm D. Lee (The Best Man, Girls Trip) is set to direct and executive produce. John Legend and Debra M. Chase (Sparkle, The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2) are also onboard as an executive producers.

A release date has yet to be announced and the series is still in the early development phase, which gives you more than enough to dive into the book—and her other novels—if you haven't already.

Why Trust Us

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While I love a chic hairstyle (Tracee Ellis Ross is my forever inspiration), I have to admit something: I really hate doing my hair. However, as a fully-fledged adult, I can’t use that excuse when I have to show up in the world every day at my very public-facing job. So over the years, I’ve had to get creative. How so? Well, the long and short of it, hair accessories are saving my life, and there’s an entire world out there for people who not only love to style their hair but also use these accessories as an extension of their own personal style.

​“The hair accessories that are trending for summer 2026 are nostalgic and are reminiscent of the ‘90s and early 2000's. There’s even a bit of a Victorian-era influence going on,” Nashville-based color specialist at Eric Marshall Salon, Leslie Shores, tells me. "Women want to wear their hair half-up or pulled back in a pretty, feminine way that makes them feel majestic yet organic. Pretty, but not trying too hard.”

​According to Shores, people are yearning for a time when life was simpler, “before technology hit.” There’s a certain freedom that the best summer hair accessories provide, so if you’re in your "live and let live” era, keep reading for the hair accessories that will provide the perfect finishing touch for your summer wardrobe.

Jelly Claw Clips

I’m sure you’ve seen the resurgence of the ‘90s jelly aesthetic in the fashion space (The Row’s Mara Flats immediately come to mind), but the fun is extending over to the hair space as well. “Just like jelly nails that have been trending and the jelly sandals that have made a comeback, jelly claw clips are back in,” master celebrity stylist at RPZL Hair Extension & Blowout Bar in NYC, Stephanie Angelone, says. “Adding a fun jelly claw clip to your look is such a fun way to stay on theme for summer 2026.”

Lace Details

If you’re one of the many people obsessed with the Doên aesthetic this summer, then you’re likely as obsessed with a good lacy detail as I am. Luckily for us, lace-inspired hair accessories are also having a moment. “Lace and crochet bandanas and headbands are a fantastic blend of functionality and style,” Shores says. “They’re great for pulling the hair back off the face while simultaneously adding that old-world glamour. They also feel super romantic with messy hair, waves, [and braids].”

Seashell Details

Water signs and summer brides, this one is for you. “Mermaid hair always spikes in the summer because people are looking for easy, effortless hairstyles,” Shores says. “One of my favorite ways to do this? Use seashell clips and barrettes. You can pull your hair back or half-up, and these accessories look phenomenal on both wet and dry hair.” Angelone agrees, adding that "seashell accessories can provide an elevated, dressier look for summer nights, especially if you opt for clips with silver and gold hardware."

Floral Details

I can attest that this next trend is absolutely beautiful, because every time I see it on the streets of New York City—particularly in coily hair—it takes my breath away. “Befriend your local florist or pick some up at the farmer’s market, but flowers in your hair will always trend during the summer months,” Shores says. “You can't tuck them behind the ear or bobby pin them into whatever position you’d like.”

Oversized Scrunchies

“A large fluffy scrunchie with a fun summer pattern is always a fun way to throw your hair up and out of your face after a day at the beach,” Angelone says. Pro tip: Use the scrunchie as a pop of color in your outfit for a chic, low-effort, but still put-together vibe.

Hair-Toned Clips

One of the chicest ways to incorporate accessories into your summer hairstyles? Use clips that match your hair color. “Matching hair accessories to the hair color itself gives a Y2K-inspired updo a refined, fashion-forward finish that feels both playful and elevated,” editorial hairstylist Hayley Logan says. “It's a modern take on a nostalgic trend that adds subtle dimension while maintaining a cohesive look.”

Mini Clips and Barrettes

Whether you’re a true beauty minimalist at heart or are just getting into the hair accessories game, tiny clips are a fantastic option to have in your back pocket. “Minimalist barrettes and mini clips are fabulous to add a little something extra to your hair,” Shores says. “You can go for metallic and sparkly details and wear them pulled to the side at the top of the head or add several to an updo.” Shores says these pieces look particularly fantastic in long hair, bobs, pixie cuts, or even people with bangs, especially if you’re growing them out and want to keep them out of your face in the heat.

Hair Cuffs

"During the hot summer days when you want to throw your hair up in a ponytail, adding a fun cuff elevates the look," Angelone says. Cuffs feel almost like bracelets for your hair, so why not stack them like the style here?

Hair Jewelry

One of my favorite easy hair accessories? Gemstones. "These little jewels are beautiful on long flowing straight or wavy hair, and also to embellish a ponytail," Shores says. If you have any music festivals coming up, turquoise stones would make a perfect addition to a southwestern-inspired outfit.

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If you haven’t yet heard, it’s a “big shorts summer.” Take a scroll on TikTok, and you’ll find trendsetters ditching their hot pants for bottoms that boast long inseams and spacious cuts.

Let the record show that I’ve always been a proponent of knee-length cut-offs. In college, when most of my classmates were sporting Daisy Dukes, I was rocking a pair of $30 Zara Bermuda shorts—before it was cool. I simply couldn’t bear the chafing caused by thigh-high pants, so cozy jorts became my fashion-meets-function solution.

Fast-forward to my late 20s, and this pants trend has remained a reliable staple in my capsule wardrobe. With summer in full swing, I’ve been wearing big shorts in the office as a breathable alternative to heavy trousers—and I’m not the only one. Marie Claire Editor-in-Chief Nikki Ogunnaike shares the same sentiment, noting that the best way to style them is with a “tiny top and a pair of heels.” This clever technique—which balances proportions and instantly elevates a look—is one that I’ve since incorporated into my own outfit rotation.

For more style inspiration, I’ve been eyeing the latest runways, where designers had plenty of big shorts on display. During the Spring 2026 fashion week circuit, Max Mara offered a corporate twist by styling its version with a matching blazer and a laptop-friendly tote bag. Meanwhile, Balenciaga took a more laid-back approach, pairing roomy denim shorts with a cropped jacket and chunky thong sandals.

With celebrities like Zendaya, Salma Hayek, and Demi Moore also embracing big shorts for summer, I’m convinced that the trend is bound to stick around this season. So, I’ve curated a list of styles to add to my shopping cart. Ahead, you’ll find a categorized edit, ranging from chic cropped trousers to casual board shorts.

Jorts

While denim is inherently casual, Ogunnaike demonstrates how to make jean shorts feel elegant. Above, she styled an ivory-colored pair from Kallmeyer with a flattering collared top and ballerina sneakers. She also owns a pair of dark-wash jorts from Agolde, which she recently paired with a crisp button-down and leather sandals.

For more elevated finds, consider alternatives from Banana Republic and Madewell.

Bermuda Shorts

As a minimalist, I often gravitate toward neutral shades that are easy to mix and match. For that reason, I’ve been loving these Bermuda shorts from Enza Costa, Staud, and Toteme, all available in various shades of beige and brown.

That said, I’m looking to step outside my style comfort zone this summer, so I’ve included Mango’s striped bubblegum pink bottoms for those moments when I want to make a statement.

Board Shorts

The board shorts trend is making waves this summer, and I’m very into the beach-ready style. To avoid looking like a sandy surfer, I’ll take notes from the savvy street styler pictured above, who coordinated swim trunks with sophisticated separates and polished accessories.

Tailored Shorts

With temperatures hovering around ninety degrees these days, I’ve officially swapped my floor-sweeping tailored trousers for cropped alternatives that offer much better ventilation. Designed with sharp silhouettes and subtle pleats, the options below maintain an office-friendly appeal.

Drawstring Shorts

Sweltering weather calls for extra comfort. Aritzia, Gap, Uniqlo, and Leset offer drawstring styles that aren’t at all constricting. Crafted with airy fabrics like linen, crepe, and cotton, these will keep you cool all season long.

Cargo Shorts

Y2K-era cargo shorts are officially back for summer 2026. Instead of pairing this utilitarian trend with graphic tees and cropped camisoles, take a more contemporary approach by opting for tailored vests and buttoned blouses. Ground your look in sleek shoes and shimmering accessories, and expect to keep this outfit formula on repeat.

Pool parties. Boat days. Outdoor brunches. With summer comes a whole slew of fun special occasions, but sometimes a packed social calendar can lead to wardrobe stress. My summer schedule really kicked into high gear this past week. I needed to put together looks for wildly varying venues, vibes, and forecasts.

Read on for summer outfit ideas for everything from late-night swims and sunset strolls to beachside weddings and galas.

Rooftop Pool Party: A Sleek Swimsuit and Baggy Shorts

It is no secret that I am a big fan of resortwear, but not all pool parties call for tropical attire. For a rooftop swim in the city, I wanted an outfit that made just as much sense on the sidewalk as it did poolside.

I have a massive swimwear collection (I am a triple water sign, after all!). So, I had a lot of options when it came to choosing my first layer, but this sleek one-piece from TA3 was too good to pass up. Like the viral swim brand's best-sellers, this suit has built-in shapewear and an adjustable, waist-cinching corset back. Even without tightening the laces, it creates a great silhouette, but once pulled taut, it instantly shapes the waist.

I love this because it is super easy to switch between a more relaxed fit and full-on bombshell mode. I generally find TA3 Swim to be true to size, and this one was no exception. My only note about this style is that it is not easy to get on on the first wear (I needed to enlist my husband for assistance!), but once it's on, it's actually very comfortable.

For the party, I made the swimsuit an outfit with my favorite pair of one of summer’s biggest trends: Baggy longline denim shorts. This specific pair has been in heavy rotation since I got them a couple of months ago. The fit is spot-on and true to size. It's also the best cut of all the denim Bermuda shorts I’ve tried lately (all the other ones I’ve tried were clearly not designed for plus-size figures).

Accessorized with my go-to pair of heeled flip-flops and tortoiseshell sunglasses, I felt stylish enough for the industry networking portion of the Swim + Resort Day event. Then, I had a seamless transition when I was ready to hop in the pool.

Brunch at a Friend's Place: A Flowy Maxi Dress

For a day of great conversation and homemade shakshouka at a friend’s house, I wanted to wear something equal parts comfortable and cute, so I went with a billowy maxi dress. This category is unmatched for feeling like pajamas while still looking considered, and is especially lovely for hot summer days.

I love the blue and white floral print on this one from Aveology, a boho-focused label from plus-size fashion stalwart Avenue. It fit perfectly through the bust (a rarity!), and is blessedly regular-bra-friendly (something that cannot be taken for granted when so many summer dresses require strapless numbers). The skirt had enough space to move with me as we went from brunch to chatting on the couch for hours. Plus, the soft viscose fabric never felt stifling in the heat.

The style details are so fun, too. From the contrast print border to the full-on bell sleeves, giving this a deliciously vintage vibe. The dress was doing all the work, so I could keep the accessories minimal: Just a pair of gold huggies and a small bangle.

Since printed maxis can work for so many summer occasions, my collection is never complete.

Yacht Day Watching the Sailing Grand Prix: A Lightweight Linen Dress

Always on board for new experiences, I was beyond excited to watch the US Sailing Grand Prix from a gorgeous sailing yacht in the New York harbor. I’d never been to a sailing race before, so I had no idea what to expect. It was thrilling, with the sleek sailboats seemingly floating above the water as they sped through the curves of the course, and cheering for the U.S. team brought the electric energy of the race to our boat. If you ever get a chance to watch a SailGP race, from land or sea, I highly recommend it!

For my outfit, I needed something equally breathable and stylish. Translation: Linen. This A-line dress from designer Cynthia Vincent’s plus size label Baacal was just the thing. The shirt dress silhouette felt like the perfect mix of casual and composed, especially when the fuller skirt added a little drama.

One extra perk: Its midi length stretched long enough, so I wasn’t in danger of sea winds whooshing my skirt. Much like the TA3 swimsuit, its lace-up back gave it a cinched waist that is usually nigh-impossible to achieve as a curvy girl in a shirt dress.

I paired it with my new, freaky shoe obsession: Boat shoe mules. Boat shoes as a whole have been rising in popularity over the last few years. But this hybrid silhouette from the recent Sperry x Abercrombie collab is the first pair that has me intrigued.

It functions just as well as original boat shoes (unsurprising, since Sperry originated the style), but with an interesting, delightfully odd twist. It earned me major props with the yachties too: They said “Boat shoes! You know ball,” as they helped me disembark the tender. I finished the look with my Longchamp Le Roseau bag (worn as a bucket) and a beloved pair of square Versace sunnies. I felt cool (literally and figuratively) all afternoon.

Pink Carpet Gala: A Statement Cape Gown

I’ve been married for years now, but I still have a deep passion for bridal dressing, especially when it comes to advocating for better options for plus-size brides. (My own wedding dress shopping experience was so bad that it led me to starting my own body-positive blog!) That said, I was delighted to get an invitation to this year’s The Knot Gala. It is an experiential showcase of the best of the best when it comes to wedding vendors (basically a wedding without the marriage part). I knew I had to come decked out in my wedding guest best.

Cape-sleeve dresses have been having a real moment lately when it comes to formalwear trends. It felt like the perfect time to pull out this sleek cape detail dress from plus size favorite Eloquii. The form-fitting silhouette had serious sexy bombshell vibes, but the high neckline and elongated sheer sleeves kept it from being too-too much for such a fancy event. Accessorized with my beloved metallic leopard Alexis Bittar clutch and a simple heel, I felt amazing and got a ton of compliments on my look.

In the summer, I tear through dozens of books. I consider myself a big reader year-round, but when it’s warm out, I think there’s nothing more relaxing than spending the afternoon with my nose in a book at the park or on the beach. With my TBR list ever-growing, Prime Day can be a great opportunity to get deals on the classics and buzzy best-sellers I have yet to read—and make sure my summer reading stack stays fully stocked.

This Prime Day, which lasts until June 26, bibliophiles can score deals on just about every genre. Looking for a vacation read? There are more than a few easy, breezy options. What about your next book club pick? Many of these are great discussion-starters—and the prices are so good, you may as well get copies for the whole group. Oh, and have you been eyeing a new Kindle? Well, it must just be time to add one to the cart. So, once you finish stocking up on skincare products and shopping for discounted styling tools or more pieces for your summer wardrobe, here are the books and bookish accessories to buy over Prime Day 2026.

The other night, at a dinner at a very chic Parisian woman’s house with strangers, a woman in clashing prints swanned through the door, clutching a patterned handbag. It was part wacky aunt, part fabulous heiress; there was an exuberance to her, an openness that permeated through the dinner party. Gradually, the rest of us loosened up, and we ended the night like old friends, barefoot on the sofa, lingering in hopes we could squeeze a little more out of an evening that none of us wanted to end.

There are two schools of thought on approaching summer dressing. One is the more is more rule, which is basically that if you layer your prints, they will feel less extreme. I subscribe to this, but I will say try to keep a consistent color palette or choose colors that complement each other (this book is a secret weapon and is on Amazon for under $20) to avoid looking too wacky.

The other is to invest in a bench of summer neutrals: a white linen dress from Attersee, a black drop waist from Merlette and an elegant short from Loulou de Saison or Smythe. And then you can have fun with the accessories, via a vintage-inspired silk drawstring bag.

One is full-on dopamine dressing; the other is a shot of it. Both do the trick.

Unlike “quiet luxury” or elegant minimalism à la The Row, which conveys detachment and mystery, dopamine dressing sends a different message. It communicates a childlike curiosity to moving through the world, an energy that, when channeled correctly, can be infectious.

We saw it in Blazy’s Chanel, which offers the unbridled joy more associated with childlike naïveté than one of fashion’s most profitable houses (we barely even saw Karl crack a smile). And at Dior, Jonathan Anderson infused his signature playfulness from his debut, pairing reinvented bar jackets with fisherman sandals for Dior Homme SS26, a reminder that perhaps we shouldn’t take it all so seriously.

In winter, we can channel dopamine dressing with heavy jacquards and velvet mules in rich jewel tones, but summer is when the category hits its peak.

In recent weeks, I’ve ditched my customary all-black for prints, colors, and clothes that inject buoyancy into my attitude. LaDoubleJ, the Milanese label from the warm, vibrant designer J.J. Martin, is perhaps the queen of this art form. The brand, which also has an excellent home collection, is known for their bold, bright textiles, like this jacket, which has the added boost of a tassel trim.

If you walk around Paris for long enough, you’ll spot a number of fashionable girls in La Veste’s striped pants, which come in multiple color ways and do the hard work of being suitable for a day running errands and dinner at night. Its founders Blanca Miró and María de la Orden are also great Instagram follows for the masterclass in mixing prints with aplomb.

If you’re afraid of color, channel the same energy in a monochromatic palette with these pants from Cala de la Cruz. Or invest in Call It By Your Name’s viral bandana bag, which can be personalized and adds a laissez faire to more streamlined outfits.

Antik Batik’s glorious prints, which mix Balinese influence with a Parisian sensibility, are also key contenders for dopamine dressing. And for formalwear, I often turn to Destree for bright colors in silhouettes worthy of Capote’s swans, satin dresses, and separates.

When trying to channel the concept, the most important qualifier is, of course, your own dopamine level. If it makes you happy, others will follow.

The first sign that you've arrived in the Hamptons isn't the beach. It's the uniform.

Somewhere around Westhampton, the city blueprint starts to disappear. The black activewear that dominates Manhattan all year gives way to white denim, striped knits, raffia bags, and cableknit sweaters draped over shoulders, even though it's 90 degrees. The East End seems to agree on a handful of staples: linen button-downs, fisherman sandals, loafers, easy sun dresses, and pieces that feel equally appropriate for a farm stand run, a lobster roll lunch, or a see-and-be-seen dinner reservation.

The Hamptons aesthetic is often described as effortless, but that has never quite been true. A summer place doesn't become shorthand for American style by accident. For decades, the East End has been shaped by women who understood the power of understatement: Jackie Kennedy Onassis in crisp summer separates, Lee Radziwill making jeans and a T-shirt look impossibly chic, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy turning a cashmere sweater and worn-in denim into a fashion reference that gets pointed to one season to the next.

Of course, there isn't one Hamptons woman. East Hampton's version is crisp and unmistakably Upper East Side-adjacent, filled with eggshell jeans, striped shirts, and loafers. Sag Harbor feels a little more creative, where vintage dresses, handmade beaded jewelry, and independent boutiques hold their own alongside luxury labels. Amagansett occupies the sweet spot between surf and fashion town. Then there's Montauk, where oversized button-downs, bikinis, board shorts, and sandy hair remain part of the DNA.

To outsiders, the Hamptons can look like one place. To anyone who has spent time there, every zip code has its own rules. The uniform may be rooted in Americana—but like any good dress code, the details tell you exactly where you are.

The East Hampton Dress Code

East Hampton is where the Hamptons uniform is at its most precise, with beach dressing filtered through an Upper East Side lens: trousers, striped knits, a classic pearl necklace, loafers, and Chanel ballet flats galore. Nothing should look too new or too considered, though of course it is both. This is the place for clothes that suggest you stopped at Round Swamp, made it to the beach, and still arrived at dinner without a hair out of place.

The Sag Harbor Dress Code

Sag Harbor is the Hamptons uniform after it has loosened up a little. The look is less exacting than its preppy neighbor’s: slip dresses, gauzy skirts, canvas market totes, bucket hats, stacked bracelets, and handmade leather slides that look better once they've been worn in. This is the woman who goes to the farmers’ market in the morning, eats oysters by the water by late afternoon, and arrives at dinner in a dress she found at the flea. If East Hampton is about knowing the rules, Sag Harbor is about knowing when to ignore them.

The Amagansett Dress Code

Amagansett sits between East Hampton and Montauk, and the clothes borrow a little from both. It’s oversized linen shirts and airy sun dresses thrown over swimsuits, relaxed denim with slides, faded baseball caps, and the old L.L.Bean tote you’ve been carrying since high school—or maybe a nylon Prada bag tossed over a swimsuit turned bodysuit. The day starts at Amber Waves, drifts to the beach without much planning, and ends at dinner still wearing some version of what you pulled on that morning. Just don't get caught look like you were trying too hard.

The Montauk Dress Code

A dip in the ocean or a morning on a surfboard is how days are best spent in Montauk, and the laid-back dressing ethos matches the attitude. Board shorts, bikini tops, rash guards worn as shirts, and jelly sandals all make sense here: safe for the surf, easy for the beach, and practical enough for grabbing a seat at a pierside restaurant after. While Montauk may be known for its party scene come nightfall, the people who have perfected the aesthetic know to leave the fancy designer bag at home. Bring a fuss-free tote, sunglasses, and a T-shirt change for after your sunset swim. Everything else can stay behind.

Let’s talk about easy pants—the kind of bottoms that feel effortless the second you put them on. Whether it’s an elastic waistband, a softly tailored trouser, or a silhouette with movement, what defines this style isn’t just the fit, but the feeling. It’s comfortable, yet considered. Paired with a tank, an oversized button-down, a silk cami, a worn-in knit, or a pair of simple sandals, it somehow always works. There’s something quietly luxurious about clothing that doesn’t ask too much of you.

Right now, fashion is less about restriction and more about flow—pieces that move with you throughout the day. Easy pants are exactly that.

Laid-Back Linen

I’m happy to share that my favorite linen pants from Donni are back in stock. They’re designed with an elastic waistband, which I know can sound “lazy,” but I think it’s all about the reframe. It’s not lazy—it’s relaxed!

I paired these pants with a vintage Gucci button-down and my go-to Peggy bag from The Row (one of my favorite investment purchases). By leaving the shirt slightly unbuttoned, the look remains undone in the best way.