This season, nautical-inspired styles are making quite a splash. It girls are scrambling to get their hands on fish bags that look like they were reeled in straight from the ocean. Meanwhile, seashell jewelry is also having a major moment, ranging from scallop pendant necklaces to conch-shaped earrings.

As we move through the height of summer, the obsession with maritime fashion continues to heat up with aqua blue, a vibrant color trend that mirrors the shade of crystal-clear tropical waters.

I first noticed this mesmerizing hue on the Spring 2026 runways. Prada embraced the look with a cinched A-line skirt, styled with an embellished blouse and sculptural pumps. Burberry gave the color a beachy treatment with a bedazzled crochet dress featuring shimmering turquoise stones. Emporio Armani leaned into a more sultry look, showcasing a pair of diaphanous sequined pants that glistened like the surface of a sun-kissed ocean.

Since then, aqua blue has made its way into street style, and I’ve been taking notes. Some savvy dressers are championing a maximalist approach, wearing the color from head to toe. Others are keeping things simple, subtly introducing the shade into their outfits with small handbags and tiny pieces of jewelry.

Inspired to ditch my neutrals for aqua blue, I’ve put together a wish list of styles that I’m coveting this summer—from barely-there bikinis that I can add to my travel wardrobe to tailored tops that I can wear beyond the coast. If you’d also like to dive into the shoreside shade, scroll on.

Shop the Aqua Blue Color Trend

When people receive a heatwave warning from the Weather app, their first instinct is to style a shorts trend of some sort. But if Bermuda shorts or Daisy Dukes don't fit the dress code, follow Tracee Ellis Ross's lead and switch to sheer pants instead.

On July 22, the actress posed for photographers before talking all things Broadway on The Today Show. Fresh off her Broadway debut in Every Brilliant Thing, she reunited with red carpet stylist Karla Welch for an all-black outfit from Sportmax's Spring 2026 fashion show.

For the appearance, Ross tucked her draped tank top, with a single sheer cap sleeve, into high-rise trousers. Right around her hips, the organza-feel voile turned the black pants transparent. Besides the opaque waistline and interior slip shorts, Ross's bottoms looked as lightweight as a cotton dress. The wide-leg hems tapered toward her pointy pumps from French footwear brand Jude.

Her Sportmax moment proved in-office fashion people can go sheer this summer without breaching work etiquette. (Then, ditch the shorts underneath for after-hours affairs.)

During Sportmax's spring show, a model paired her peekaboo bottoms with an oversized crescent bag. Ross, on the other hand, scored Celine's take on the comically large coin purse trend, Doctor's Pouch, which featured a yellow gold kiss-lock closure. Unlike Sarah Jessica Parker—who is a fan of the Coach Kisslock Frame Bag—Ross carried the tote by its elongated shoulder strap, rather than as a clutch. Between her bag and see-through bottoms, Ross delivered a masterclass in adding personality to your work wardrobe.

While acting in Every Brilliant Thing, Ross wears a T-shirt, cuffed jeans, and her favorite Asics Gel-Kayano sneakers. All the more reason to model looks this fashion-forward while out for NYC's street style circuit. After giving Ross's look the standing ovation it deserves, shop the sheer pants below.

Shop Sheer Pants Inspired by Tracee Ellis Ross

Hot take: The cocktail attire dress code is overdue for an update. Traditionally, it called for a midi or tea-length dress or a tailored suit. But what feels dressy has expanded, and thankfully, so have the rules. In 2026, we're questioning old gender norms, prioritizing comfort alongside style, and dressing in an era where every outfit is photographed from every angle. The result? More freedom to interpret cocktail attire—but also more pressure to get it right.

The good news is that cocktail attire should be more fun than black tie. It's an invitation to play with personal style without the rigidity of formalwear. Of course, context still matters. Consider the season, venue, time of day, and footwear, then build from there.

Texture is one of the easiest ways to elevate a look. Satin, brocade, lace, and taffeta can make even the simplest silhouette feel occasion-worthy. Shape matters, too: sculptural volume, dramatic ruffles, and unexpected proportions all make an impact. While black will always be a classic choice, don't overlook metallics, rich prints, or saturated color.

And don't feel limited to dresses. Matching sets, statement suiting, and elevated separates all feel just as appropriate for today's cocktail dress code.

Finally, don't underestimate the accessories. A whimsical clutch, standout jewelry, or a pair of comfortable—but undeniably chic—heels can transform an outfit. Ahead, shop the pieces that prove cocktail attire is anything but predictable.

Over the past several months, I’ve traveled approximately 18,700 miles, flying just about everywhere from the sandy coast of Anna Maria Island to the bustling city streets of London. Now that I’m finally back and settled in New York City, I’ve decided to share the reliable airport outfits that have carried me to every destination in style.

Before I dive into each look, let me start by saying this: I refuse to wear sweat sets while boarding any plane. I know I sound like a fashion snob—but I’m not! While there’s nothing wrong with laid-back loungewear, a put-together airport uniform gives me a sense of confidence that joggers and hoodies simply cannot deliver. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that my latest in-flight looks have earned me countless compliments from fellow passengers.

If you’d like to elevate your travel outfit rotation, scroll on for the minimalist ensembles that have taken my jet-setting wardrobe to the next level. From pull-on cotton pants that balance function and style to sophisticated layers that keep me warm in chilly aircraft cabins, you’ll discover all my non-negotiables below.

Easy Breezy

While flying to my friend’s bachelorette party in Florida, I slipped into this breezy look. Free People’s Something Good Pants have easily become my favorite travel bottoms. They’re designed with a pull-on construction, a drawstring waistline, and a billowing barrel-leg silhouette for extra comfort. Styled with a tank top, a sweater, and sleek sandals, this outfit took me right from the tarmac to the beach.

I kept things elevated with my beloved Jenny Bird pendant necklace and my Cuyana Bowler bag, which is large enough to fit all my carry-on essentials.

Tailored to Perfection

Who says tailored trousers are reserved solely for the office? Crafted with relaxed crepe fabric, these slacks from Aritzia are casual enough for any airport terminal. To complete the outfit, I added an unbuttoned J.Crew top, an easygoing tank, and snug Mansur Gavriel Mary Janes. Then, I pulled everything together with polished Pandora jewels.

Of course, I can’t forget about my sturdy Dagne Dover suitcase, which I’ve been carrying for years. It’s cut from durable fabric that's guaranteed to last. Not to mention, it’s currently on sale at Bloomingdale’s for fifty percent off its original price, so I’d suggest snagging it now if you need a resilient piece of luggage.

Tried and True

When all else fails, I know that I can always rely on my trusty jeans-and-tee combo. To refrain from looking too basic, I’ll usually tie a cardigan around my shoulders. Not only does it help my outfit to appear more considered, but it also keeps me cozy when aircraft cabin temperatures are too chilly to bear. Complete with cool-girl Adidas Sambas and chic carry-on luggage, this look is worth repeating.

Some shoes are just worth the investment. Though you might not have wanted to hop on a trending shoe style with a hefty price tag when it first hit the runway, many have stood the test of time—and deserve to be treated as such.

There is somewhat of a stigma with making a splurge purchase when it comes to a sandal style, specifically. Perhaps it’s the truncated season during which they can be worn; or maybe it’s the thought that there’s literally less material involved in the production; regardless, it’s time to kick your preconceived notions—at least when it comes to the below styles.

These designer sandals have earned true cult status for a reason. They’ve been beaten into the ground, worn with everything from jean shorts to black-tie dresses, and lived through many sartorial trends that have long since come and gone. And they still look just as chic with everything you own, years later. In short, they’re champions. Stylish wardrobe workhorses, one might say.

Ahead, find the best designer sandals that are absolutely worth the investment. I promise, you won’t regret it.

If there's one piece I'll always reach for in the warmer months, it's a simple dress. There's something about mindlessly throwing one on and walking out the door that makes me feel like I have my life together. Dresses are one of the most straightforward things you can wear—on busy days, all you have to think about are accessories.

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale, which runs through August 9, has no shortage of options—and I sorted through all 4,000 to find the ones worth buying. Luncheons, showers, the office, concerts, weddings, everyday wear—it's all here, in styles that will take you well beyond the summer season. With deals this good, I guarantee you won't just be buying one.

Gap x Victoria Beckham and Old Navy x Christopher John Rogers, watch out: Target teamed up with New York-based designer Rosie Assoulin to give competition in the maximalist, dopamine-dressing department. On July 24, a rainbow of summer 2026 color trends will transform your local Target into the world of Rosie Assoulin, a CFDA Award winner known for bright colors, whimsical patterns, and bold nautical stripes.

According to a press release, Assoulin designed airy maxis, joyful matching sets, woven beach bags, and ribbon-adorned sandals to "bring personality to everyday dressing."

If you're drawn to Rosie Assoulin's smile-inducing pinstripes, gingham, and color-blocking looks, now's your chance to buy a piece from the New York-based brand on a budget. In true Target style, most women's ready-to-wear styles from the Target x Rosie Assoulin line are shoppable for under $50. For comparison, a cotton poplin shirtdress design from the brand starts at $650.

The designer, who had internships at Oscar de la Renta and Lanvin before launching the label in 2013, has long been celebrated for her more-is-more POV. This spills over to the Target collection, which features bright hues like cobalt blue, poppy red, and lemon yellow.

Her artful approach to print is also present in the offering. Nowhere is that more clear than in the campaign, which shows a model styled in a green matching set with a multicolored graphic bandeau underneath.

Other noteworthy apparel details include contrasting hems. A striped two-piece gets a thick blue stripe on the peplum waistline and pants. Meanwhile, a lemon floor-grazing strip makes a maxi dress's butter yellow gingham even brighter.

The collection also features accessories, including flip-flop sandals with oversized striped ribbon straps and raffia handbags that beg to be whisked away on vacation.

“My favorite thing about this collection—and all of Rosie’s work—is her ability to pair bold silhouettes, expressive color and an unmistakable point of view with pieces that feel effortless to wear," Tara Russell, senior vice president of apparel and accessories at Target, said in the press release. "It captures the optimism and ease of late summer while giving guests fresh, designer-inspired style they can make their own long after the season ends.”

Target x Rosie Assoulin marks the Brooklyn native's first foray into select home decor products. So while patterned two-pieces will light up your summer closet, striped towels and mix-and-match dishware will keep the compliments coming in your kitchen.

That's not to say Rosie Assoulin is a stranger to the lifestyle category. Back in 2020, she created watercolor-style journals, pens, and pencils with stationery label Papier. She also regularly reunites with Palm Beach-based brand J. Logan Home on home pieces only available at pop-ups.

Beyond the home decor department, Rosie Assoulin has previously partnered with Allbirds to create unisex slides; with Sergio Rossi on colorful ballet flats; and with Gwyneth Paltrow's Goop on chambray and poplin pieces. With this latest partnership, the designer is joining Target's long list of luxury and New York-based collaborators, including Kate Spade, Diane von Furstenberg, LoveShackFancy, and Missoni.

Plan your next Target trip: July 25 will be a big day for Rosie Assoulin and your end-of-summer style.

Shop the Target x Rosie Assoulin Collaboration

For years, I considered myself firmly anti-music festival. It wasn't that I didn't love live music or the idea of seeing so many of my favorite artists in one place—that couldn't be further from the truth. I'm just the type of girl who prefers a hotel over camping and a stadium show over spending all day outside in the elements. Or so I thought.

That all changed when I had the chance to attend Coachella earlier this year. Being in the desert with thousands of other fans, discovering new artists, and putting together a chic festival outfit felt like a true escape from reality—and I’ve been chasing that high ever since.

So when Motorola invited me to experience Lollapalooza with them, it was a no-brainer. Deciding what to wear, though? That was a little more complicated.

While searching for outfit ideas, I quickly learned that Lollapalooza has a style all its own. Between the jam-packed lineup and the Chicago heat, Lolla-goers often prioritize function, while still bringing that signature festival flair. Countless TikToks and Pinterest boards later, I came to the conclusion that the inspiration I was searching for could be found in the lineup itself.

Headliners like Lorde, Charli XCX, Zara Larsson, and Olivia Dean all have such strong aesthetics, giving me the perfect jumping-off point. Like any good Zillennial, I'll take every excuse to relive the early 2000s, so I'm planning to channel major pop star energy with my looks. Think Y2K-inspired sunnies, stacks of bangles, and even the born-again icon: the Motorola razr.

Below, shop my editor-approved picks to inspire your Lollapalooza 2026 wardrobe—and keep an eye on Marie Claire’s socials for real-time festival coverage, courtesy of yours truly.

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is a big topic of conversation here at Marie Claire—and if you've never shopped it before, let me break it down for you. The concept is simple: new arrivals, marked down from the start—which means that everything you're about to want for late summer and fall is already on sale. It runs July 18 through August 9, and if you work where I work, it's basically all anyone is talking about right now.

Between conversations with coworkers and my own obsessive scrolling, I put together what I think is a genuinely stellar list. We're talking the sweatpant jeans I’ve worn on rotation for months (mind you, they never go on sale), boots and shoes that are almost too good to be marked down, and cashmere pieces that will take you straight through winter. These are the 27 picks worth your time.

The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale is a long-awaited event for fashion lovers, and it's officially available to the public as of July 18. (Cardholders received early access on July 11.) The best part about the sale is that it's full of brand-new styles that are discounted ahead of their season. Usually, we use this opportunity to stock up on fall trends and wardrobe basics at a discount, but this year, the sale also includes so many items you can wear right now. With summer trips booked and bags being packed, there's no better time to curate your epic vacation wardrobe than right now. From raffia accessories to breezy dresses to beachy jewelry, here's every item to snag from the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale ahead of your vacation.

When the temps are high, my personal style goes out the window. I simply cannot be bothered to put together a stylish look when my pits are sweaty, my makeup is running, and my shoes are sticking to the asphalt.

Thankfully, the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale just so happens to align with this ungodly weather—which means it's time to invest in some heat-proof picks. And this summer's fashion trends make achieving that goal so easy—thanks to breezy silhouettes like bubble tops, Bermuda shorts, and tent dresses. Even the footwear world is adapting, with barely-there mesh flats with built-in ventilation.

So if you're looking for a way to tackle the summer heat in style, shop these hyper-fashionable picks—all editor-approved.

My obsession with seashell jewelry began last year when I discovered Juju Vera’s Petra Shell necklace. Designed with a shimmering silver scallop and suspended teardrop charms, the nautical pendant instantly made waves among the fashion insider crowd. It girls everywhere scrambled to get their hands on the dazzling $995 accessory, which soon became an “IYKYK” status symbol.

Since then, seashell jewelry has developed into a designer favorite. On the Spring 2026 runways, some luxury brands ditched conventional diamond studs and tennis bracelets for gems that appeared as though they were pulled straight from the ocean. Ralph Lauren showcased a silver gastropod shell delicately strung on a black cord necklace, and Tory Burch designed sculptural earrings with a pattern resembling a marine snail shell. Meanwhile, Balmain opted for a gorgeous necklace stack featuring a tiny cone shell.

Inspired by the abundance of maritime accessories, I’ve added the look to my own jewelry box this summer. During a recent weekend getaway to the Hamptons, I styled a Pandora clam charm on a radiant chain bracelet. Paired with a breezy button-down and linen pants, the look embodied true coastal chicness.

I’ve also got several other seashell jewels on my wish list from brands like Madewell, J.Crew, and Jennifer Behr. These pieces will fit perfectly into my shoreside wardrobe—and yours, too. Scroll on to shop my curated edit.

Shop the Seashell Jewelry Trend

While the summer heat is still in full swing, the fashion crowd’s attention has begun shifting toward updating their fall closets. Contrasting the light linens and barely-there sandals that define warm-weather wardrobes are the first fall handbag trends featuring rich materials and even more saturated hues. If you’re not quite ready to invest in a new knit or denim staple, a statement bag can jumpstart your fall shopping and transition your summer looks.

Shape, silhouette, and color are all getting the fall treatment when it comes to fashion’s hottest handbags. From slouchy suede shoulder bags and elongated east-west silhouettes to structured bowling bags and lived-in leather carryalls, the season’s standout bags are all about relaxed sophistication. Deep shades of espresso, oxblood, and camel are emerging as the new neutrals, adding warmth and depth to everything from breezy sundresses to longline shorts.

Woven details merge the seasons, trading raffia and straw for leather and suede. The appeal of these styles lies in their versatility; these are the type of purchases that instantly make summer staples feel ready for September while remaining hero pieces long after the temperatures drop.

Consider this your sign to swap your straw tote for something a little moodier. Ahead, discover the fall bags fashion people are carrying now, from standout silhouettes and of-the-moment shades to, of course, the back-to-work tote.

My wardrobe is filled to the brim with warm-weather essentials. I’ve got plenty of gauzy dresses, lightweight linen pants, and barely-there tank tops. However, I’m admittedly lacking in the summer shoe department. I’ve been styling the same old thong sandals just about every day, and I’m beginning to wear them to the ground, quite literally.

In desperate need of a new and improved footwear rotation, I’ve turned to Larroudé—one of my favorite shoe brands that just so happens to have a major sale going on right now. At this very moment, the label is offering up to 40 percent off a range of must-have styles that are simply too good to pass up.

The best part of all is that there’s a little something for everyone. For the statement-making cool girl who loves to stand apart from the crowd, she’ll find quirky toe-ring sandals, sculptural heels, and colorful mesh flats. On the other hand, for the minimalist who prefers to fly under the radar, she’ll discover streamlined leather flip-flops and simple ballerina slippers.

If you’re anything like me and you need to refresh your lineup of summer shoes, scroll on for my handpicked edit of discounted Larroudé styles. Don’t wait another minute to fill your shopping cart—this incredible markdown event ends Sunday, July 19, so time is of the essence.

I caught the travel bug this summer; every time I tell myself I'm ready to settle down, another flight somehow gets booked. With Spain next on my itinerary, I've been thinking less about what to pack for the sake of it—I tend to overdo it—and more about the pieces that actually earn a spot in my suitcase. The key is versatility: pieces that work just as well wandering cities as they do stretched out on a beach. And there’s no better time to find them than sale season.

While you shop, remember: summer style is all about effortless pieces that shine in the details. Airy cotton tops, nautical stripes, and relaxed silhouettes are everywhere, while unexpected pops of color—from butter yellow to cherry red—are replacing predictable neutrals. I’m also drawn to pieces that keep things casual without feeling predictable, with oversized Bermuda shorts and crisp white tanks becoming my go-to uniform.

Whether you're planning a Mediterranean escape, a tropical getaway, or simply dressing like you're on holiday, I've combed through some of the season's best sales right now and found something for every kind of traveler. Below, shop the under-$200 pieces worth making it on your vacation mood board, no matter where your summer takes you.

It’s nearly impossible to get dressed during a heatwave. So, I love that airy, romantic tops are having a major style moment right now. Made of lightweight cotton voile with eyelet embroidery, inset lace details, and a nod to the Victorian era, this summer wardrobe staple is one that you’ll reach for from morning coffee runs straight to after-hours cocktails.

Drawing inspiration from the undergarments of the mid-19^th century, today's pretty tops carry a boudoir inspiration that leans towards innocent romanticism rather than a more daring one. Think: thoughtful Poet-core details like easy ruffles, pintucked detailing, and sheer designs that show just enough without revealing too much.

There is little more effortless than a romantic top this summer. You can throw it on with cutoff jean shorts and sandals for a nonstop day of errands, or style it with a skirt and heels for date night. In fact, once you incorporate the trend into your everyday wardrobe, you’ll find it hard to stray very far away again—they’ve certainly become part of my personal everyday uniform as of late.

Whether you’re looking to road-test the trend for under $250 or seeking a high-end interpretation of the look, find our favorite romantic tops for summer right here—and they can easily fold into your fall wardrobe.

This summer, I've been embracing one thing above all else: comfort. Don't get me wrong, I love my jeans. But when the temperature rises well into the 90s, the last thing I want is to wrestle with stiff denim. Instead, I've been reaching for breezy, pull-on pants that look just as polished but feel infinitely better. It seems like every brand has gotten the memo, because stylish, easy pants are everywhere right now, and the options have never been better.

Whether your situation—postpartum, recovering from surgery, traveling, working from home, or just over uncomfortable waistbands—these are the pants you'll reach for on repeat. Ahead, 22 easy-breezing pants at every price point.

When crafted intentionally, even the smallest pieces of jewelry can become a portal into a whole new imaginative world. Pandora understands this concept better than most, and its latest collection, Pandora Wonders, is a true testament to that vision.

Co-created with British stylist Harry Lambert, this limited-edition assortment of eleven freshwater baroque pearl charms conveys a narrative of playful escapism. Handset by expert artisans and finished with 14K gold-plated details, the styles evoke powerful nostalgia—from an ice cream cone reminiscent of sweet boardwalk treats to pufferfish motifs that call to mind the briny scent of the ocean.

“I’m such a fan of pearls, so I’m so thrilled to bring a renewed sense of childlike delight and nostalgia to Pandora’s unique world of charms, signatures which already have such a place in so many people’s hearts,” says Lambert.

This past weekend, I had the opportunity to explore Lambert’s work and celebrate the collection launch at the Montauk Beach House. While personalizing my necklaces, bracelets, and earrings with quirky charms, I felt suddenly transported back to my childhood summers on the shore. These endearing pieces have quickly become core staples of my warm-weather wardrobe, adding the perfect amount of whimsy to every outfit.

Below, I’m sharing how I styled these accessories during my Hamptons getaway with Pandora, and how I’ll continue to wear them throughout the season. With summer in full swing, it’s an ideal time to indulge in these fun styles for yourself, too.

Nineties Nostalgia

If you haven’t yet heard, ‘90s-inspired cord necklaces have been trending across the fashion set. So, of course I had to try the vintage look for myself with Pandora’s version. I treated the brand’s Talisman necklace as a blank canvas, decorating it with a mini submarine charm and an adorable crab pendant. Then I added cobalt-colored beads that matched my cool blue button-down top. I completed my outfit with minimalist staples: a black tank top, white linen trousers, and sleek leather sandals.

Sardine Summer

Who knew that fish jewelry would become a coveted accessory trend? I, for one, can’t seem to get enough of the nautical look. For a day of shopping on Montauk’s Main Street, I styled Pandora’s Sardine Fish Charm with its Squid Dangle Charm. Strung along a shimmering chain necklace, these pendants instantly elevated my relaxed cardigan and striped drawstring pants.

To enhance things even further, I slipped on a two-tone ring and a chain bracelet (I chose the gold option, but Pandora also offers a stunning blue alternative for a vibrant pop of color).

Back to Basics

I’ve always been a “less is more” type of gal. For this outfit, I channeled my inner minimalist with a gold rolo chain and a subtle dangle charm. I applied this same pared-down philosophy to the rest of my ensemble, opting for a simple tube top and a pair of blue bottoms that felt oh-so beachy.

Star of the Show

Adorned with a spotted starfish and tiny gold heart embellishments, this bold necklace became the focal point of my coastal-chic outfit. Since it’s such a statement-making piece, I finished off the look with laid-back separates, including a butter yellow button-down, a scoop-neck tank, and tailored trousers. This easygoing outfit formula carried me through brunch outings, casual coffee runs, and everything in between.

Late-Night Elegance

While in Montauk, the Pandora team treated us to a lovely dinner at Alba Spiaggia. For the fancy occasion, I decided to take things up a notch with my jewelry. I kept on my starfish necklace, but added a bold bracelet, dazzling earrings, and an eye-catching ring. In doing so, my look felt less beach-ready and more dinner-appropriate.

Part of the beauty of the Pandora Wonders collection is that it’s the first of many. Each annual edition will explore a distinct material in collaboration with visionary tastemakers. I’m beyond excited to style next year’s installment, but until then, I’ll be wearing my playful pearls all summer long.

As someone who lives in coastal New England, I have deemed a summer sweater a necessity that lasts well before the heat arrives and well after. Not only does a summer knit-and-shorts combo make you look like the hero in a Nancy Meyers movie, but it's, of course, incredibly functional. Summer nights can turn cool and also buggy, as the sun starts to go down, so it’s crucial to always have an extra layer at the ready, especially if you’re anywhere near water. What makes a great summer sweater that can transition into fall is, first, breathable, easy-to-wash fabrics that hold up against sun and saltwater over time. In building a capsule of these sweaters, I would suggest a variety of weights and styles ranging from casual to dressy, including some pops of color and prints for novelty. There’s no need to go crazy, but having a few sturdy options will serve you well on all different kinds of occasions for the summers to come and to bookend the seasons.

As someone who lives in coastal New England, I have deemed a summer sweater a necessity that lasts well before the heat arrives and well after. Not only does a summer knit-and-shorts combo make you look like the hero in a Nancy Meyers movie, but it's, of course, incredibly functional. Summer nights can turn cool and also buggy, as the sun starts to go down, so it’s crucial to always have an extra layer at the ready, especially if you’re anywhere near water. What makes a great summer sweater that can transition into fall is, first, breathable, easy-to-wash fabrics that hold up against sun and saltwater over time. In building a capsule of these sweaters, I would suggest a variety of weights and styles ranging from casual to dressy, including some pops of color and prints for novelty. There’s no need to go crazy, but having a few sturdy options will serve you well on all different kinds of occasions for the summers to come and to bookend the seasons.

One of my favorite texts to receive: "Do you want to come with me to this concert?" The second it pops up on my phone, I'm already figuring out what I'm going to wear. I'm a huge live music girl: you'll find me at a concert most weekends of the year, especially in the summer, when I'll happily say yes to just about any excuse to hear music outside.

Whether it's a major festival like Lollapalooza, a country concert, or a local band playing at a bar, I treat every show as an opportunity to get dressed up in a way that feels a little more fun than usual. My outfit differs depending on the vibe—festivals call for something different than a stadium show—but the one constant is that I always want to feel comfortable, like a more fun version of my everyday self.

So when my friend asked me to help her plan a few concert looks for the summer, I immediately headed to Nordstrom. Ahead, head-to-toe look inspo for whatever concerts this summer takes you to.

Big Jacket, Mini Short

A Cool Pant and Great Accessories

Sporty Chic

Perfect White Dress

Friends! As I’ve told Andrea Stanley, Marie Claire’s executive editor, I’m running out of days. And not in a dramatic way, just in an “I’m about to get married and going to be out of the office for the next couple weeks” way. Exciting, right? My “bridal era” is coming to an end—and bringing with it some thoughts on the fashion peanut gallery’s obsession with being “timeless.”

From what I’ve seen, the bridal industrial complex (a.k.a. Wedding TikTok) will make you think that everything related to your wedding should be timeless. When you look at your photos, every choice from your ring to your dress to your glam should stand the test of time. Well, I call BS. Instead, I think every piece you choose should feel exactly like you at that moment. And that goes for your everyday style too. It’s not about hating microtrends or dressing for random people’s approval; no, it’s about choosing items that make others say “that fill-in-the-blank is so Your Name Here.”

So how does one do that? Well, for me that starts with noticing patterns—being cognizant of my wardrobe staples over the years as well as the items I always return to. That exercise prevents me from impulse shopping. Here’s what’s on my list for summer.

Striped Shirts

Just the other day, as I unpacked my Uniqlo shopping bag, my fiancé joked, “You’re always gonna have a striped shirt, aren’t you?” And you know what, he’s right. There’s something that just feels so intentional about them that will always keep me coming back for more.

Big Shorts

Try as I might, I’m just never going to be a hot pants girl. And I’m definitely not going to be a capri pants girl…which leaves me with what I like to call “big shorts”: a catch-all for either Bermuda or wide-leg styles. They’re simply where I feel most comfortable (whether or not everyone else believes in the big shorts agenda remains to be seen). But honestly, it doesn’t matter because I’ve loved this style of short for well over 15 years.

Button-Down Shirts

“Elegant” is a word I use a lot when I describe my personal style (on its best days, I should say). “Refined” is another. Button-down shirts, to me, inherently embody those words. Hence, the reason I have an arsenal of them ready to be deployed for any given occasion.

Slim Sneakers

Sneaker trends come and go, but a low-profile style that I can easily slip off and on will always make the top of my list. They’re ideal for commuting and then stashing under your desk, plus I find they look the best with trousers or shorts.

Forget minimalist raffia styles this year—summer 2026 bag trends are shifting towards all things playful and personality-driven. From novelty designs, like the many fish-shaped bags spotted across our feeds, to colorful striped carryalls and shiny sequined totes, it’s time to start adding these conversation-starting bags into your lineup of standby seasonal staples.

Among the many handbag trends we saw for spring, woven styles and “silly little pouch bags” emerged as early favorites. As high summer approaches, designers are offering a more playful take on these shapes, featuring unexpected silhouettes, vibrant colors, and special details worth showing off.

There’s an option for every kind of aesthetic, too. Minimalists will embrace subtle stripe detailing and handcrafted techniques, while maximalists might lean towards intricate beading, loads of embellishment, and vibrant color palettes. Plus, they pair back effortlessly with wardrobe essentials, like linen sets and breezy dresses.

With options at every price point, consider this your guide to the best summer bags worth adding to your rotation—each sure to spark conversation wherever you're headed this season.

As a New Yorker who constantly commutes between the boroughs of Brooklyn and Manhattan, I spend much of my time people-watching on the train. Not in a creepy way, though—more like in an “I’m-looking-for-outfit-inspiration” kind of way.

Lately, I’ve noticed that savvy city residents are pairing their summer dresses with a very specific minimalist shoe. I’m not talking about high-vamp ballet slippers or mesh flats (although I’ve seen my fair share of those, too). I’m referring to thong sandals—the sleek, ‘90s-inspired footwear trend that has recently taken the fashion set by storm.

It’s not much of a surprise that thong sandals are everywhere. The Y-shaped silhouette emerged across the Spring 2026 runways of Bottega Veneta, Sacai, and Fforme, so it was only a matter of time until it reached New York’s stylish subway scene. There, I’ve spotted It girls wearing neutral thong sandals with gauzy linen dresses. Others have coordinated colorful options with floral print frocks for a more statement-making appeal.

Inspired by this chic summer outfit formula, I’ve decided to incorporate it into my own warm-weather wardrobe. Ahead, you’ll discover a sneak peek into my shopping cart, filled with thong sandals from brands like Staud, Mango, Madewell, and more. You’ll also find a handpicked edit of summer dresses to match.

Shop Thong Sandals

Shop Summer Dresses