Oh, Olivia Culpo. How I wanted to pore over your wedding content in the deepest of green envy. You had it all: the hot football player husband, the equally It-Girl sisters, the star attendees. You could’ve had a Sofia Richie moment, and instead we’re here.
On June 29, 2024, Miss Universe and model Olivia Culpo and star running back for the San Francisco 49ers Christian McCaffrey invited their A-List friends to Watch Hill, Rhode Island for what was supposed to be the most spectacular wedding of the year.
As pictures slowly leaked – and with Vogue onsite for full access – the Culpo-McCaffrey union had potential to be the Pinterest wedding of your dreams. Everyone wanted to see the bride. Olivia Culpo has become a true style icon for her throngs of followers – regularly posting TikToks getting ready for McCaffrey’s games throwing on “cool girl” outfits.
So when her army of umbrellas fell and the world saw her first wedding dress…everyone was left with the same reaction: that’s it???!!!
Surely, this must’ve been a ruse. No way would the Olivia Culpo be dressed in a full-coverage, long-sleeve, high-neck Dolce & Gabbana wedding gown. No, there had to be something else and the public wasn’t allowed to take a glimpse yet.
But, actually, that dress was chosen by Culpo as the dress of her dreams. And although she had three dresses in total (yes, all equally tacky or underwhelming for different reasons), social media full-on exploded. And Culpo and McCaffrey have made things exponentially worse.
Well, there isn’t just one issue at hand. The first is the dress itself: are we serious? Dolce & Gabbana is not the luxury brand I’d turn to for modern conservatism.
First and foremost, Dolce & Gabbana isn’t exactly free of controversy. If you want the people to take you seriously, maybe don’t choose the brand that Elton John called to be canceled in 2015 for making comments against gay parenting.
It’s the middle of summer. If I’m getting married on the East Coast at the end of June, I’m going to be in something strapless. You bet your bottom dollar I’m showing a bit of clavicle. Because it’s hot and I don’t want to be miserable.
But for Culpo, that was the whole point. And misery loves company it seems. You see, Olivia Culpo defended the dress by saying she didn’t want to “exude sex in any way, shape, or form.” She believes your wedding dress should be “serious” enough to match your “commitment.”
“When I think about Christian and what he loves and the moments that he thinks that I’m most beautiful, it’s absolutely in something like this: timeless, covered, and elegant.
And isn’t there something so Handmaid’s Tale about wanting to be covered for your husband? I genuinely thought we were past this point in life. But hey, back to the 1950s we go!
Even more ironic is that, for the reception, Culpo changes into (essentially) a bodysuit with a mesh bubble wrapped around her waist. When stylist Kennedy Bingham made a viral TikTok response to Culpo’s fashion choices, Culpo got angry. And so did McCaffrey.
From Culpo: “Wow what an absolutely evil person you are. I hope no one ever tears you apart in this way because it’s extremely hurtful. I love this dress and it was everything I wanted and more.”
From McCaffrey: “What an evil thing to post online. I hope you can find joy and peace in the world, the way my beautiful wife does.”
I think “evil” may be two public figures name-calling a content creator for speaking the truth about the public’s opinion…but hey! Who am I to judge? (I say seething with judgment.)
The Drama Continues
But Kennedy Bingham ruffled one too many feathers for Culpo and her court, it seems. Not only does Culpo berate Bingham for her evil acts, but she goes on to say that millions of people wear Dolce…she’s not the only one!
And while that may be a redeeming quality for Dolce in Culpo’s eyes, Bingham was quick to point out otherwise:
“They are not just a designer to you, they are a coworker … I’m also not saying YOU’RE anything. I’m saying that your actions allude to a certain mindset that you aren’t doing anything to contradict.”
And one more solid point that Bingham presents Culpo’s emphasis on her natural makeup look. Yes, she makes the brave move of skipping out on mascara (but is wearing a full set of lashes) and ditches the lip liner (a dose of filler will do instead) for a more “natural” look.
I will hold for stifled laughter and eye rolls. Yes, the former Miss Universe who is no stranger to Botox and filler wanted you to focus on natural beauty. And look, I’m not saying she’s ugly by any means or needs any further work done…but when you’re preaching natural beauty and realness, please save it.
If you want Botox, get Botox. If you want to wear a parka to your wedding in the middle of the summer, do it. If you want to wear a full beat to your wedding, do it. If you want to wear a bikini, wear a bikini.
But don’t sell false beauty standards and harp on conserving your sexuality for your groom and then make it our problem when people disagree.
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
The kitchen isn’t just a place for cooking and eating — it’s the central hub of the home and a great place to show off your personality. However, outdated hardware can easily tarnish the aesthetic, both metaphorically and literally. From worn-out cabinet handles to old-fashioned faucet designs, these seemingly minor details can make a big impact, turning a once-trendy kitchen into a very dated space.
To be sure your kitchen is up to date (and stays that way), I talked to top interior designers to learn about which kitchen hardware will stay on trend for years to come — and, just as importantly, which ones make your space look instantly dated.
Outdated Kitchen Hardware
I hate to break it to you, but crystal knobs are out. According to Joyce Elizabeth Huston, cofounder and lead designer at Decorilla, “not only do they look dated, but they look out of style and cheap at the same time.” While these kinds of knobs were once loved for their glamorous appeal, they’ve fallen out of favor. Most have intricate designs that often clash with the sleek, minimalist style that characterizes contemporary kitchens.
2. Highly Decorative Cabinet Handles
As the saying goes, less is more, and highly decorative cabinet handles can be too much for the space. Their elaborate patterns and ornate detailing don’t complement kitchens like they used to. “Handles that have intricate designs can look beautiful, but they will also make your kitchen feel and look less contemporary,” explains TileCloud interior designer Courtney Cole.
Plus, practicality plays a role in why they aren’t as popular; the complex designs can make them hard to clean, letting dust and grime accumulate in the crevices. As Huston says, “They definitely were used in the 1800s, but not anymore.”
“If you want your hardware to be modern, then ceramic knobs are out,” Huston says. Their colorful and unique patterns, while adding a touch of rustic or vintage charm, now seem out of place in modern kitchens, which more often highlight clean lines and minimalist design. “[Ceramic knobs] are pretty common in older homes, but because they were so popular decades ago, they’ll make your home feel a bit stuck in the past,” Cole adds. What’s more, ceramic knobs can be fragile and prone to chipping or cracking, making them less durable than other hardware.
4. Overly Industrial-Themed Hardware
Overly industrial-themed hardware was once a top choice when it came to adding a rugged, edgy flare to kitchens, but it has started to feel dated in recent years. “While it became popular during the ‘farmhouse’ era, the pieces will instantly date your space,” says Will Zhang, director of design and product innovation at Emtek. “With the kitchen being a place we spend so much of our time, it’s better to avoid anything too trend-focused and instead opt for timeless pieces.”
These overly industrial hardware pieces often feature heavy, bulky designs with raw finishes like exposed screws, dark metals, and rough textures, which can make a space feel more like a factory than a home kitchen. While industrial elements can add character, when overdone, they can overwhelm the space and make it feel less warm and welcoming.
Timeless Kitchen Hardware
Don’t worry, I also asked the experts what you should opt for instead of the dated features above. “If you want your kitchen to look more contemporary and modern, you should look for products that are more streamlined and polished in the way they look,” Cole says.
“When it comes to kitchen hardware, the simpler the knob or the pull the better,” Huston explains. “This Kela Matte Black Metal Cabinet is a great option because it has a sleek, simple, contemporary design. Black is my favorite because it’s sophisticated yet very versatile.” Additionally, one of the best things about simple knobs is that they’re minimalistic, making them timeless even if other parts of your kitchen change. “This Center to Center Bar Pull is another classic yet modern option that is great for the more traditional person but also has a very sleek aesthetic,” she adds.
2. Brushed Nickel Hardware
Without a doubt, brushed nickel hardware has a classic appeal. “Hardware in a brushed nickel colorway will make your kitchen look timeless and elegant, but without the dated feeling that sometimes comes with timelessness,” Cole says. Plus, brushed nickel can seamlessly hide fingerprints and smudges.
“Another modern option is to go for chrome hardware,” Cole says. “The shine of chrome makes a kitchen look more clean, and because it reflects light, will make the space look more open and warm. This is one of my favorites in the kitchen, particularly if you want an über-modern aesthetic.” What’s more, the polished surface of chrome hardware creates a clean, contemporary look that complements a variety of kitchen styles, from minimalist to industrial.
The Final Verdict on Kitchen Hardware
“When making selections, it’s important to ask yourself if this is a decision you will still agree with in five-plus years,” Zhang says. “Additionally, I always recommend considering if the hardware works outside of the kitchen by taking into account the home’s theme and architecture. Finding continuity between your kitchen hardware and the home’s overall aesthetic typically leads to decisions that work better and last longer.” With all of these considerations in mind, now you’ll know exactly what to pick when you opt for kitchen hardware.
Jumbo scrunchies can embellish the simplest styling (see: white top and blue jeans) but are equally additive to bold looks, without requiring meaningful coordination. Like Allison Bornstein’s wrong-shoe theory, the power of this practical statement is that it looks great when mismatched to the rest of what you’re wearing, and makes for an outfit equation that’s far more interesting. This contrast has the power to elevate, without the prerequisite of meaningful effort. (For proof, see Mandy Lee’s look above, which saw the trend analyst pairing her delicate eyelet scrunchie with chunky rubber clogs, albeit from the Crocs x Simone Rocha collaboration.)
All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.
We can’t resist a good sale, and trust us when we say that Aritzia’s annual summer sale definitely fits the bill. From now until July 8, everything at the Canadian retailer is up to 50 percent off, and pieces are going fast.
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the choices, don’t worry: We’ve scoured Aritzia’s proverbial online aisles to find the best of the best. Read on to discover a few of our favorite pieces on sale now.
Aritzia Summer Sale Dresses
Airy, fashionable dresses are basically the only clothing item we want to face the summer heat in. From tiered maxi dresses to mini dresses, halter-neck silhouettes, wedding-guest-friendly pieces, and Skims-like cami dresses, there’s a discounted summer dress style for every occasion.
Aritzia Summer Sale Tops
One can never have too many classic white button-downs and T-shirts. But that’s not all that’s on offer in terms of summer tops during the Aritzia summer sale. Also find ruffled tanks, satin blouses, on-trend waistcoats, and more.
Aritzia Summer Sale Bottoms
Need a new pair of elegant shorts for weekend brunch? How about a pair of flowy linen pants or office-ready trousers? Or a trendy bubble skirt or a pleated tennis skirt to channel your inner Zendaya in Challengers? Look no further for the perfect summer style.
Aritzia Summer Sale Denim
Denim jorts are back again, and you can find them on sale at Aritzia right now. But you can also find other denim essentials, like skirts, cutoffs, and, if you already want to look ahead to the cooler months, wide-leg jeans.
Aritzia Summer Sale Activewear + Loungewear
Whether you’re a fitness girlie or just like to stay comfortable, Aritzia has a wide range of cozy — and breathable — leggings, bike shorts, sweats, sports bras, and other activewear that will take you from running errands to hanging out at the beach and lounging around at home with ease.
Aritzia Summer Sale Shoes + Accessories
Find popular styles from covetable footwear brands like New Balance and Asics on sale now for your next summer sneaker. Or: Browse Aritzia’s own collection to pick up a new hat, handbag, or any other accessory you may need to round out your summer wardrobe.
We’ve officially reached the time of year when every person and their mother is on holidays in Europe. Our feeds are positively heaving with sunny days, Aperol Spritz by the beach, and leisurely sojourns into the Italian countryside. For those of us who aren’t jetting off this summer, we’ve been easing our jealousy by looking to the street style and dreaming up our mood boards closer to home. (Also, reminding ourselves that dragging a wheeled suitcase across cobblestones is kind of punishing, actually.) One fashion trend that has emerged early to stake its claim on our Pinterest boards is a refreshingly timeless and classic style: drop waist dresses.
In the 1950s, we also saw the skinny scarf in patterned fabrics, shorter lengths, and more taut styling — perhaps looped around the neck twice, like a choker, with a bow to play up a colorful poodle skirt. Kostis mentions the skinny scarf’s symbolic references in the 1960s, when it was a nod to mod subculture, especially in splashy geometric prints, which could be interpreted as a rejection of conventional styles at that time. And even later, we saw it during the bohemian rocker move of the ’70s — a look implemented by Moss into the late ’90s — with the scarf nonchalantly thrown over a blouse, and a peek of lingerie, seemingly as an afterthought.
Special thanks to Thursday Boots and Nothing New for supporting Primer’s mission and partnering with us on this post.
When it comes to summer style, the right shoes can make all the difference. And the good news is, you don’t need a closet full of options. With just two carefully chosen pairs of sneakers, you can elevate your summer outfits and stay comfortable in the heat.
The classic white minimalist sneaker is a decades-long enduring style and the perfect way to anchor any summer look in the smart casual territory. Smart casual is my home base – it bridges the gap between formal wear and casual streetwear, blending comfort with a more polished aesthetic. What does that mean? Think of it as the sweet spot between dressed up and dressed down – you’re putting in effort, but you’re not too dressed up in contrast to the people around you. A crisp white sneaker can take a simple shorts and t-shirt combo and make it look clean and put-together. The beauty of the white sneaker is its versatility – it can adapt to almost any outfit and occasion, instantly giving you that effortless style vibe.
But sometimes, you want a little more color and personality in your summer footwear. That’s where a great pair of retro running shoes comes in. And we’re not talking about the vibrant, overly sporty styles that make you look like you’re headed to run club. We’ve specifically chosen a pair with a classic silhouette, a sophisticated dark green, blue, and white colorway, and minimal branding. These details bring a different kind of versatility to your summer fits – they allow the shoes to add visual interest to your outfit without overwhelming it.
There’s an elephant in the room when it comes to men’s summer footwear. Comfort. Let’s face it, as much as I love the look of a sleek loafer or a leather sandal, they’re not always the kindest to our feet. And in the summer heat, the last thing you want is to be hobbling around in pain. The retro running shoes are an opportunity to maintain don’t-have-to-think-about-it comfort in your summer footwear, something flat-soled sandals and flip flops are not known for until they’re worn in.
But this specific pair, because of its colorway, retro design, and lack of ornate sporty logos, takes a timeless silhouette in a classy color palette, and combines them with the comfort of an athletic shoe, all while keeping your outfit looking sophisticated – not like a guy who wore his 5k runners to a summer baby shower.
Similar to past trends like quiet luxury and coastal grandmother, this aesthetic puts an emphasis on “clean,” elevated outfits — this time taking elements from classic French and Italian styles. Key pieces include tailored tops, feminine dresses, matching separates, and top-handle bags. This curated wardrobe can be dressed up for both day and night, as well as for hot, humid temperatures. Think: light, flowy fabrics like linen and cotton, intentional detailing like crochet and embroidery, and “old money” silhouettes (problematic implications here aside).
Welcome to Refinery29 Loves, the monthly news bulletin where you’ll find the best things to shop and see in fashion and beauty right now.
While the sun might still be hiding behind the clouds some days, the temperature has risen to warm and sweaty, meaning our makeup and fashion looks for the month ahead have to be sticky commute-proof.
When it comes to beauty, we’re leaning into the power of tinted sunscreens, which act as a hydrating foundation alternative with lightweight formulas that provide just enough coverage to skip a heavy base. We’re also giving ourselves the ultimate at-home pedicure for the start of bare feet season (mesh ballet flats count, too) and investing in a summery scent to usher in the lazy, hazy days.
On the style side, we’re looking to flirty skirts, with Y2K bubble skirts and Wimbledon-inspired tennis skorts topping our list of picks. For those who prefer a trouser, the capri pant is holding its own, with cool-girl brands like Sandy Liang and Mirror Palais producing some of our fave iterations. And we can’t ignore the ever-growing cult of cowgirl clothing, with lace skirts, scarf tops and cowboy boots remaining sartorial summer staples for another year running.
To discover more beauty products and wardrobe winners that caught our eye this June, click through the slideshow ahead…
For the first time ever, Shopbop — and its fashion director Caroline Maguire — has co-designed a collection, and the online retailer tapped New York-based brand 3.1 Phillip Lim to help make it happen. The resulting capsule release features eight pieces and includes collegiate-inspired graphic T-shirts, khaki joggers, rugby sweaters, and more. Prices range from $195 to $650.
There’s a new sneaker vying for a spot in your summer rotation: the Converse Run Star Trainer. The new silhouette, which borrows design cues from more than 20 designs from the brand’s archives, is equally stylish and sporty with a nylon upper, suede and leather accents; a comfortable foam interior; and a rubber outsole with gripping traction. The Run Star Trainer is available in five colorways (black, white, blue, red, and yellow) for $90.
Brazilian footwear brand Melissa — known for its nostalgic rubber shoes — has teamed up Marc Jacobs for a second collaboration. This time around, the Melissa x Marc Jacobs launch includes three styles — the Becky platform sandals (with the logo wrapped around the soles), the Melissa Mule in polished and matte finishes, and the Ruby ballet flat which is available in translucent and metallic colorways — made from recyclable PVC. Prices range from $150 to $295.
Unofficial quiet luxury ambassador Sofia Richie Grainge has curated a summer-ready edit for all-American brand Tommy Hilfiger. The 12-piece collection highlights warm-weather essentials, including a crochet midi dress, linen suit, white Oxford shirt, and a reversible bikini. “To me, summer is all about relaxed vibes, breathability, and a sense of playfulness,” Richie Grainge said in a press release. “I love it when I can mix-and-match statement pieces with a wardrobe staple, not only making vacation packing easier, but also never compromising on my personal style. I think summer is such a fun time to show your personality through your wardrobe.”
We’re revisiting the 2024 Met Gala — sort of. Jewelry brand Catbird has teamed up with New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art for a five-piece collection inspired by The Costume Institute’s latest exhibit, “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” which was also celebrated at the star-studded fashion event in May. With prices starting at $98, the line evokes the exhibit’s themesof the passage of time with pieces like a pearl plum charm, a still life art-inspired oyster ring, and a gold chain necklace with moonstone bubbles. Catbird and The Met previously collaborated in 2020 to celebrate the museum’s 150th anniversary.
Footwear brand APL is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its popular sneaker, the TechLoom Pro, with a new twist on the style. Called the TechLoom Pro X, the shoe is now available in five new colorways: black/white/silver, black/gold/silver/mélange, tan/ivory/black, white/glow-in-the-dark, and bleached pink/burgundy/white. Of course, everything that made the OG sneaker so beloved — its woven knit fabrication, which allows for a breathability and ventilation, ultra-soft soles, and lightweight design — remain the same.
Looking for a more eco-friendly way to add to your warm weather wardrobe? Look no further than The RealReal’s new collaboration with NYC designer Ian Allen Greer. The 24-piece collection is made up of upcycled garments crafted from items unfit for sale from the online retailer’s inventory. Find summer-ready dresses, tops, shorts, shawls, and more, all made from cotton and linen, that Greer hand-dyed using plant-based pigments sourced from flowers, plants, minerals, and repurposed food waste from local restaurants. Prices range from $175 to $500.
Though liquid formulas have dominated the blush space in recent years, the power of powder is undeniable — especially for oilier complexions. This month, Kosas is launching a new selection of baked, single-pot blushes for the summer season, aiming to both brighten the face with long-wearing color and add dimension. The silky formula even contains hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid and oil-balancing squalane. When it comes to the shades, each two-tone baked blush mimics the look of a natural flush, ranging from a cool baby pink to a fiery blood orange and an even deeper mauve. Plus, the formula is vegan and talc-free.
Giddy up! New York fashion brand Collina Strada and Baggu have teamed up to create a whimsical 18-piece collection that includes a crossbody bag shaped like a horse. Other pieces include Baggu staple silhouettes — such as a cargo shoulder bag, nylon crescent bag, and shopping totes — in trippy, maximalist prints (chrysanthemums, puppies, and plaids). All bags are made with at least 59 percent recycled material, with prices ranging from $16 to $70.
British brand RIXO is teaming up with Los Angeles-based label Ciao Lucia this month, bringing a slice of West Coast sunshine to the classic English countryside. The 12-piece capsule collection aims to mix occasion dressing with everyday wear, with floaty cotton midi dresses available alongside silky, lace-trimmed maxis. If you’re looking for something more casual (and warm weather-friendly), the collection also features a series of minidresses, including a vintage-inspired, powder-blue collared shirt dress with silk ties. The real show-stoppers are the printed dresses with an angelic cherub design, hand-painted by RIXO co-founder Orlagh McCloskey.
Bold brows defined the past decade but in 2024 the consensus seems to be working with our natural brows to create face-framing, fluffy goodness. While this can be achieved through a number of methods, the most effective way is with a strong-hold brow gel. Happily, VB has devised one just in time for a sweaty summer. Combining the silkiness of a serum with a hairspray-like hold, the product promises ultimate staying power alongside actual haircare, thanks to a biotin formula that aims to promote fuller-looking brows. It’s available in four shades as well as a universal clear for barely there brow-brushing.
Choosing footwear for a summer in the city can be a complicated task. A flip-flop might be the simplest way to combat the heat but the clean girl in us craves the safety of a closed toe, making the ever-popular ballet flat an ideal option. For those looking for a luxury offering, Dear Frances has reimagined its Balla mesh flats for summer, adding a dainty strap for running to and from meetings (or, let’s face it, brunch). There’s a riviera-ready raffia design, patent leather looks and even a diamanté-encrusted accent pair. If you’re after a little more height, the collection also includes a selection of structured heels — the silver metallic pair is made for wedding season.
Tubing mascaras continue to have a loyal fan base thanks to their long-wear formulas. Coating and sealing each individual lash in polymers (like a cover for each separate lash), they have been hailed as a lengthening alternative to fiddly falsies. Now, Milk Makeup is backing the hype by upgrading its famed KUSH mascara with a clean tubing formula that promises to provide maximum volume and definition. Free of alcohol, the formula uses vegan waxes and hemp seed oil to condition lashes while avoiding flaking or dryness throughout the day. If makeup remover irritates your eyes, you can simply soak your lashes in water for 30 seconds, then massage the mascara away, meaning no need for stinging cleansers.
If you’re lucky enough to be travelling this summer, you’ll know the stress of having to pack your makeup into a teeny tiny suitcase. This is why we have our eye on anything that can shrink that stress into practical, compact products — thankfully, NARS has the goods. Released as part of the brand’s Seductive Summer Collection, the limited-edition Laguna Ultimate Face Palette is built around the iconic bronzer shade, famed for its silky texture and subtle sculpting capabilities. Featuring a mix of four shimmer, satin and matte eyeshadows, two bronzer shades and a glow-inducing highlighter, the palette may be made with a tropical beach in mind but works just as well for high summer in the city. It comes in two separate colorways to suit lighter and darker skin tones.
Rhode’s Peptide Lip Tint is one of the brand’s most talked-about products but we suspect that the new Pocket Blush might just give it a run for its money. Known for her minimalist makeup and rosy cheeks, Hailey Bieber is bringing a set of six blushes to the market this June, with colors spanning from baby pink (Piggy) to a deeper reddish-brown hue (Toasted Teddy). Suitable for both cheeks and lips, the wind-up blush tubes are creamy and contain tamanu oil and peptides for a hydrating feeling. You can apply the product straight from the applicator but tapping it on with fingers is recommended for an even distribution of pigment and a natural, glowy flush.
Putting the London girl aesthetic on the world stage since 2019, Peachy Den has found fans in superstar Brits like Raye and Olivia Dean, alongside global It girls like Bella Hadid, Gabriette and Kaia Gerber. Known for its ’00s-inspired style, this summer the brand is drawing inspiration from the British seaside in its latest capsule campaign, with new colourways of the drop-waist seersucker Cindy frill dress, alongside a retro tunic and short co-ord set. Coinciding with the label’s five-year anniversary, the collection also includes classics like ’50s-inspired swimsuits, sheer cardigans and checked maxi dresses for the ultimate beach day (come rain or shine).
HOUSTON – Spilling red wine all over a white sofa sounds like a nightmare, right? It doesn’t have to be.
We’re at the factory showroom of Living Designs Furniture in the East End to check out just how easily stains like red wine can be removed. They have a wide range of performance fabric options so your furniture can stay looking as great as the day it arrived in your home.
The sister company of Texas Mattress Makers, Living Designs Furniture is a family-owned and operated company with decades of experience. Choose your favorite style of furniture, then select a fabric, and LDF will create exactly what you want at a price that’s more affordable than you think.
Check out their showroom at Lockwood and Navigation to get an up-close look at the quality of their materials. You can also schedule a free design consultation by visiting their website or by calling 713-921-5098.
Copyright 2024 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.
With the weather getting hotter and days getting longer, we’re looking for summer outfit inspo for all our upcoming vacations (and staycations), summer weddings, and casual Friday office days. But if you’re not looking to accumulate an entirely new wardrobe this season, consider renting. Whether you opt for a subscription plan to refresh your summer looks on a monthly basis or a one-time rental (for as low as $15) for a special occasion, Rent The Runway offers thousands of summer fashion styles from over 750 designers.
“Going back to where it all began, this capsule collection is so special to me, because it’s core to LoveShackFancy’s history. Cotton fabrications have been essential in creating our very first pieces and in building that ease and comfortability that makes them so timeless and wearable,” LoveShackFancy founder and creative director Rebecca Hessel Cohen added. “Creating such an inspiring campaign starring Suni Lee has been the biggest honor. Having grown up with a love and passion for gymnastics myself, I have such an admiration and respect for Suni. She’s truly the perfect, female powerhouse to represent our Americana capsule collection.”
Welcome to Jet Set, a recurring feature in which we highlight our favorite accessories and travel must-haves that are perfect for any kind of trip. Travel is back and better than ever, and whether you’re already packing for your next adventure or you’re just beginning to contemplate venturing out again, we’re here to help with all your jet setting needs. Summer’s here, and not only does that mean plenty of beach days, three-day weekends and sunny days, but it’s also time to update your makeup-routine—and more specifically, your travel toiletry bag. There have been quite a few new makeup launches that are perfect for a summer glow, and well-deserving of a spot in your travel bag. From a dewy bronzer and pocket-sized blush to a French girl lip stain and glowy face base, these are the new makeup product launches perfect for travel that we’re loving and coveting right now.
Picture any season but summer and think about what you would default to wearing if you wanted to look put-together and sophisticated. It doesn’t have to be dressed up, but it’s dressier than casual. I feel safe guessing that it includes some type of jacket like a blazer, bomber, or trucker, some form of long sleeve button up shirt, nicer pants or darker denim, and some kind of boot or dressier shoe.
Now picture what you would wear if you had to go to the same dress-level destination in the sweltering summer heat on August 1st. Maybe it’s a work function. Maybe you’re going to a four dollar sign restaurant while on a tropical vacation. Maybe you got invited to some trendy launch event from a friend of a friend.
If you’re mind goes blank, you’re not alone. Dressing well in summer is one of the most common things I get hit up about. For guys that live anywhere with more than two seasons, we default to layers and thick, textured fabrics – and lots of them – to build refined, cohesive outfits.
In summer, all of that goes out the window. But, here’s a little fun motivation: learning to dress well with the limitations of the hot season will noticeably improve your overall style for the rest of the year.
Here are 7 of my summer principles for making my summer uniform more put-together for dressier occasions:
1. Wear more refined versions of your summer go-tos
For many of us, sneakers are the shoe of summer, and there are some classics like canvas options from Vans and Converse that will pound pavement for you through your sunny months.
But when it’s 7PM and you’re getting ready to go somewhere, you may find paired with your pared down summer clothing, a pair of Vans Classics doesn’t seem put-together enough for the nice place you’re going.
In that case, swapping the canvas Vans for black suede slip-ons keeps everything you like about your just-kickin’ it shoes, but noticeably augments the outfit to something more intentional.
Similarly, keeping everything else in your outfit the same, swapping out your flip flips for a leather sandal immediately upgrades the look from oceanside to an evening appropriate outfit.
2. Lean on simple, enduring styles
I often see guys end up doing too much because they’re trying to make up for a lack of layers and material choices. A bright coral pink linen shirt with an intricate and colorful swim suit. Vivid shirts, shorts, and canvas sneakers all in completely different colors. I’m not opposed to bold colors, but when looking to build an outfit that looks more refined, as they say, less is more.
Just like with our recent Chris Pine outfit rebuild, starting with items that are classic and simple naturally create a more sophisticated outfit. To whatever degree that feels “boring” to you can be augmented incrementally, as Pine did with his rectangular watch, braided leather belt, and fuller cut chinos.
Bold or vivid colors and patterns are right at home in summer. To do it well, consider employing an emphasis hiearchy. Choose a bold item to highlight in your look, and build out the rest of the outfit with more subdued pieces that enhance the bold item, instead of fighting it or compounding it:
In summer, that could mean a uniquely patterned short sleeve shirt with neutral-hued shorts or pants. Or it could be bright teal chino shorts with a white oxford shirt and brown loafers. If you’re ever looking in the mirror and unsure if you’re attempting to do too much with your summer fit, try swapping just one item for a more subdued alternative and check again. If it feels balanced and cohesive, you’re good to go. Repeat as necessary.
3. When you want more splash, turn to vintage/retro trends so you’re calling on menswear from past eras, which are inherently more dressy
The summer months can feel a little repetitive: Polo, shorts. T-shirt, shorts. Short sleeve button up, shorts.
When you want to inject a little punch into a summer outfit, my personal move isn’t to go wild with bright colors or trend-chasing styles, it’s the opposite. I like to lean on vintage or retro designs, calling on past eras from menswear.
Lots of great options have become increasingly mall-accessible over the last few summers. Knit polos with interesting textures and tipping take your standard polo look from sporty to suave. Grail brands like Todd Snyder are the go-to for celebrities and the otherwise financially inclined but more affordable options are available if you’re willing to look.
Abercrombie & Fitch has become one of my favorite summer shirt stores thanks to their rotating offering of unique, retro-inspired knit polos and button ups. The Tie Bar is probably the safest, budget-friendly option, which is something I’m excited to see.
The pattern is intricate, so using trick 2, I balance it with dark charcoal chinos and brown suede loafers
For bottoms, flowier pants like the linen ones we recently featured instantly add a touch of retro Riviera. For shorts, going with a shorter inseam, cuffs, or pleats all introduce visual callbacks that enrich the way your shirt and footwear appear in your outfit.
PRIMER SPONSOR:
4. Add Structure to a Structure-less Season
With traditional professional and formal wear, there is an emphasis on structure and silhouette, with both virtually absent in summer clothing. On the far end of formality, with things like tuxedos, dress military uniforms, overcoats, crisp standing shirt collars, and perfectly knotted ties, sophistication is delivered with a detailed balance of rigid form and elegant drape. Drape is the quality of how clothing hangs and moves on your body.
With summer, all emphasis is placed on a flowing and rakish drape. Classic summer menswear staples include loose linen shirts and fluid, unbuttoned silk-like resort shirts. The looseness and thin material allows movement and airflow.
But sometimes that thin material can look too casual, for instance, in the collar area because it flattens out under its own weight.
Sliding a Slick Collar under the collar gives this soft, linen shirt more structure.
A dead-simple way to dress up your summer clothing is by adding structure. For example, wearing a polo with floppy collars looks casual and possibly even sloppy. Having a linen shirt’s collar go any way it wants in the sun is fine but casual.
You can instantly add more structure with a Slick Collar, which keeps it standing tall and intentional without reducing any of the comfort we expect in summer. In fact, I always forget it’s there when I wear it.
Slick Collar requires no sewing or alterations, and is adjustable so you can use it on all of your shirt collar sizes and types. You just flip up your collar, slide it on, and flip the collar back down.
With the collar flipped down, the Slick Collar is completely invisible, even on thin white fabric like this linen shirt
Instant structure – plus it stays in place all day and its completely invisible to anyone and undetectable by you. Each flexible Slick Collar kit comes with 3 separate sizes: Regular, for most shirts, Slim, for polos and thinner collared shirts, and Athletic, for larger shirt collars and neck sizes.
The kit also comes with 10 traditional shirt stays and is packaged in a small, metal travel storage box to make packing, even in the smallest luggage, a breeze. Primer readers save 15%!
5. Shop from the middle out
Personally, I prioritize buying things that “live in the middle.” Either because of their design or how they interact with the other outfit elements, these items can be dressed up OR worn casually. I refer to this as “shopping from the middle out.” I still buy only-casual or only-dressy pieces sometimes but I’m always drawn to this priority of versatility.
I do this all year, but it’s especially important in summer.
Unless you live somewhere hot and sticky most of the year, your summer-only clothing likely gets worn more frequently but for less of the year. This makes the case for buying not only designs that are versatile, but also nicer versions of these things. The benefit is you can then incorporate these into other seasons (linen shirts in spring, knit polos year round) even further justifying investing in these better versions.
Now you’ll start building a wardrobe that is not only easily pairable with one another within a specific season, but also when building outfits in other seasons:
Shopping from the middle out for your summer clothes makes them more easily worn in the rest of the year as well.
One of the best parts about shopping from the middle out, is “how dressy they appear” is controlled predominantly by what footwear you choose for a Getup.
Wear a retro-inspired knit polo with beat up white vans and you have a cool, casual day look. Pair them instead with a premium suede loafer and the entire outfit feels refined and evening ready. Generally speaking, it requires more effort and expertise to take a very casual or very dressy item and pull it the other way. Beginning with a middle out mentality requires a lot less computing power when you’re rushing to pack before summer vacation.
6. There are 2 ways for combating heat when making summer outfits
More than any other season, getting dressed in the summer prioritizes reducing the discomfort of making a hot sun hotter.
You have two options for optimizing being comfortable in high heat while maintaining some semblance of your personal style: Wear different, summer appropriate items (e.g. shorts over jeans):
or wear the same thing as always but with swaps for their summer versions (e.g. linen pants over jeans):
In this outfit, I’ve swapped the white long sleeve dress shirt for a silk short sleeve camp collar shirt, the cotton dress pants for linen pants, and brown suede boots for suede loafers.
In summer, swap your…
…for:
jeans
chino shorts, pull-on shorts
chinos and dress pants
linen pants
Wool suit
linen or cotton suit; linen blazer over a polo with lightweight chinos
button up oxford shirt
Short sleeve resort shirt; knit polo
dress shoes or boots
leather loafers or leather slip on like huaraches
Sweaters
loose knit button up shirts or polos
Jackets
Unlined cotton or linen versions
7. Embrace Jewelry
Lots of guys stop at sunglasses, wedding ring, and a watch, but accessories can add a lot to an outfit, especially a low key one, like the rectangular watch and bold sunglasses in the Chris Pine outfit I mentioned earlier.
For a long time, men’s jewelry in specific forms has only been embraced by certain subcultures, economic classes, or the fashionably fearless. In the last few years, the guardrails have really come off on what is and isn’t “acceptable” for day-to-day wear.
And it’s not just “who” can wear it, it’s how to wear it. Wearing both metal colors, multiple rings or bracelets, and simple chain necklaces can be mixed and matched as desired.
Nobody does that better than Primer style contributor Daniel Baraka, who regularly includes multiple pieces of jewelry in the outfits we feature to great effect. It never feels flashy or out of place, and we’ve previously discussed his personal connection to some of the pieces, which make wearing them that more meaningful.
Start slow and simple, if you’re curious. A narrow metal cuff bracelet or simple chain necklace adds degrees of character to a classic and minimal outfit.
What are some of your summer style tricks? Keep the list going in the comments below!
Sunglasses trends are often indicators of cultural moments. Bold-colored lenses bring us back to the groovy ’70s, while huge, bug-eyed shades are reflective of the early aughts’ Olsen twin era. Last summer, everyone was wearing narrow sunnies and bubble frames (thanks, Loewe), and the year before that, thick frames and tortoiseshells were all the rage. Although eyewear trends move a lot more slowly than Tik-Tok-fueled aesthetics like “mob wives” or “quiet luxury” — and it’s far from necessary to have more than a few pairs — sunglasses still play a significant role as wardrobe staples.
In case you didn’t get the memo (meaning: haven’t seen an overwhelming amount of pixelated text across your Instagram feed), it’s officially “brat girl summer.” Charli XCX, the queen of dance-pop anthems, indie sleaze fashion, and meme culture recently released her sixth studio album, Brat, an EDM-pop phenomenon that has ushered in a viral fashion aesthetic with it.
What exactly does brat style entail? It’s a bold punk, Y2K fashion aesthetic that calls for trendy hot pants, Von Dutch trucker hats, and neon green. It spans from casual graphic baby tees during the day to sheer black tights (preferably ripped) at night for that “365 party girl” vibe. But most of all, being a brat is about having the unabashed confidence of an It girl, like Charli XCX and her Brat remix collaborators Addison Rae and Lorde. So it’s time to break out the summer outfits and trendy accessories that’ll help boost your confidence.
Read on to find styles inspired by Brat song lyrics and Charli XCX’s tour outfits to add to your brat shopping starter pack, get you “looking like an icon,” or build your own concert outfit for the current European Brat Tour or upcoming North American Sweat Tour with Troye Sivan.
Summer is here, which means so is the time for dressing for sweltering heat, carefree nights out, and beach vacations. Figuring out what to wear in a new season — and one that can often leave you feeling sweaty and sticky — is no easy feat, but it’s a task we’re up for. Luckily, it’s also a challenge that the people who fill our Instagram feeds aren’t shying away from, and they’ve been styling warm-weather-ready outfits full of the season’s latest trends for weeks now. From timeless summer dresses to mesh footwear and the revival of bygone styles like jorts and capri pants, there’s plenty of fashion inspo to be found. Scroll on to discover 23 outfits to get you through this summer.
Drawing inspiration from East Asian and African cultures, bangles and arm cuffs are another major ‘00s trend making its way back this season. On the summer 2024 runways, brands like Chanel, Loewe and Courrèges sent out models wearing sleek metal bands, dangly bangles and statement cuffs — the perfect combination of ease and edge. Wear your bangles solo or stacked and experiment with position: Try your wrist, forearm or even your bicep.
That is precisely where Samyra has aimed her attention, garnering a TikTok following of over 1.8 million people. Her audience looks to her to learn where they can shop and, more importantly, if the retail brands that claim inclusivity are truly following through on their promises. She regularly creates first-person vlogs that chronicle her search for plus sizes in top stores, describing the options available, what’s stocked in store versus online, how welcoming the overall experience feels, and more.
Launching today, the second drop from the American mainstay and the Ukrainian womenswear brand offers a minimalistic, elegant take on timeless, feel-good closet staples. Full of bright, cheerful colors, the 12-piece capsule collection includes pastel-colored slip dresses with lingerie-inspired details — an Anna October signature — a structured blazer, matching satin sets (think: a black bralette with shorts, and a white sleeveless top with wide-leg trousers), and three white dresses that will have all your special-occasion dressing needs covered whether you have a wedding, a summer party, or a night out with the girls on your social calendar this summer.
