Summer Styling Session: Summer Parties

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Temperatures are rising, cocktails are being sipped al fresco, and weekenders are migrating Out East, which can only mean one thing: summer is officially here. And, with it, an exciting pile of cheery save-the-dates and RSVPs to add to your already buzzing calendar! 

If you’re at a crossroads of what to wear—or how you’re going to manage styling for all the festivities on your to-attend list—stress not. We’ve rounded up a tasteful lookbook catered to each event on the agenda, from splashy seaside bashes to romantic garden nuptials, so you can serve up a lesson in summer style at whatever fling you find yourself at this season. Ready to swoon? Scroll for a picture-perfect mood board for your summer party self.

For a Glamorous Cocktail Party

Perfect for a glamorous night out, our go-to cocktail party outfit looks a little something like this: a shimmery protagonist paired with elevated basics. Though, if you’re not the shimmer type, a standout color will do the trick just fine. Case in point? This swoon-worthy cutout Oséree metallic maxi dress, flaunts a trending tinge and glistens under even the dimmest of city lights. Because we like to plan ahead, we also paired the look with our very own Cropped Blazer, your BFF when evening temps drop. For arm candy, opt for something petite enough to carry your essentials and sparkly enough to give the rest of your outfit a run for its money—like this rhinestone-encrusted Kara mini armloop bag. Keep walks to the bar comfortable with your favorite low strappy pump, or these The Row Bare Satin Sandals, and finish it off with a not-so-average pair of earrings, like these Rendor gold hoops. Happy sipping!

For a Midday Picnic Social

’Tis the season for shared charcuterie on woven blankets and rosé cheers-ing with friends! Despite what Pinterest may tell you, picnic dress goes far beyond the boundaries of gingham and sun hats—though both are always welcome! Instead, take a lightweight poplin top and pair it with your favorite neutral trouser, like our very own Puff Sleeve Button Up and these Lisa Maria Fernandez cotton-piquè shorts. Dress it up a bit with a trendy logo espadrille, like these tempered Gucci slides, and a bright-hued tote sure to draw attention, like this Marni chartreuse raffia carryall. And, of course, no picnic fit is complete without a floppy headpiece. Top it off (literally) with this hemp-blend sun hat by Eugenia Kim, and you’re ready to indulge in your picture-perfect setup.

For a Casual Backyard Barbecue

Meet the backyard barbecue—where afternoon pool dips turn into evenings around the fire pit, grilling kebab and roasting s’mores, and workweek uniforms turn into something laid back and casual. Our wardrobe rec? Start with a printed bathing suit—more specifically, our Floral Balconette Bikini. Then, layer with an elevated loungewear bottom, like our Silky (and on sale!) Wide Leg Pants, and your favorite oversized linen button-down, like this Citizens of Humanity cotton shirt. Keeping it all in the (color) family, throw on your favorite matchy sandal and cult-favorite baseball cap—or, these The Row two-tone platform sandals and Sporty & Rich baseball hat—for your much-needed dose of weekend casual.

For a Breezy Seaside Soirée

Picture this: twinkling lights, crashing waves, extra-dry bubbly, and a breezy outfit ready to mingle and dance. Beachside affairs call for a unique, albeit challenging to navigate, dress code—something pared-back and casual, yet dressed-up and memorable—which is why we’ve enlisted our Floral One Shoulder Dress, a blissful blend of simple and chic. For kicks, a sandal like these black leather Porte & Paire raffia slides can do no wrong, whether you’re through sand or toting them by hand. For accessories, throw this Loewe leather-trimmed raffia bag over your shoulder, and add a pair of chic white sunnies and Ettika shell earrings for good (and on-theme) measure. Et voila, you’re seaside ready!

For a Romantic Garden Wedding

Something to say “I do” to! If the destination is somewhere lush and green, a smocking summer frock is a ticket to ride. Enter, this Zimmermann Midi Dress, which features pretty ruffle trims and painterly blooms. To keep the look a standout without taking any attention from the bride, offset this floral printed moment with Bottega Veneta leather sandals and a matching rattan wicker Poolside croissant clutch. Accessorize your locks with a Jennifer Behr pearl-embellished hair clip, and your wrists with a gilded Alexa Leigh heart bracelet. Your sartorial happily ever after!