Fashion

White dresses are a year-round favorite but they’re especially essential in the summer when you want to look feminine and polished. There’s a huge range of timeless silhouettes and fabrics available, making them easy to dress down casually or style all the way up. Not only that but white dresses present a surefire way to feel instantly chic without putting much thought into getting dressed. As you gear up for summer, you’ll want to have a few options on hand that you can reach for in a pinch. Whether your preference is a cottagecore dress or a breezy gown, I’ve got 10 styles that’ll steal the show no matter where you are.

Sau Lee

1. Asymmetrical Cutout Dress

I wore this dress during my recent trip to Santa Barbara and couldn’t have found a better piece. It’s sexy, flirty, and eye-catching – just right for date nights and vacations.

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PatBO

3. Lace Sleeve Dress

PatBO makes the most alluring dresses. They come with a steep price tag but they’re seriously one-of-a-kind. Every girl needs at least one in her wardrobe.

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Heartloom

6. Puff Sleeve Dress

I love all the little details on this dress from the ultra puff sleeves to the corset bodice. If you’re looking for a romantic mini, this is it!

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LBLC

8. Faux Wrap Dress

I can never pass up a sophisticated wrap silhouette. This one is perfect for every summer gathering.

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Endless Rose

9. Smocked Dress

A casual white dress that you can wear any day of the week. It’ll make you feel a little fancy but not over the top.

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Michael Costello

10. Open-Back Dress

Amp up your vacation style with with a sheer sleeve, open-back dress. Tone it down with strappy flats or dress it up with stilettos. Either way, it’s bound to take the spotlight.

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xo, Maria

Sau Lee White Cutout Dress (also love this one and this one)
Alexandre Birman Tie Ankle Heels (also here)
Bottega Veneta Aviator Sunglasses
Bottega Veneta Jodie Mini Bag

The long weekend isn’t quite here yet but the best Memorial Day sales have already started! Since you can score the best pieces when you shop early, I wanted to round up the sales worth scoping out first! Whether you’ve been eyeing a certain designer piece or just want to beef up your warm weather wardrobe with cute, updated styles, this is one of the best times to find a great deal. I’ve already discovered tons of surprising markdowns on Givenchy bags (here and here), Bottega Veneta sunglasses, summer sandals, and more! There’s a lot you don’t want to miss, so if you’re ready to shop, keep scrolling.

Up to 50% off designer collections

Shop the Half-Yearly Sale up to 60% off

Take up to 50% off designer brands

Enjoy 30% off select designers like Gianvito Rossi with code 30OFF

25% off select styles

Take up to 50% off

Take an extra 50% off sale items plus 30%-50% off a large selection of items

Take 15% off beauty with code BEAUTY15

Up to 50% off

Anthropologie – Take an extra 40% off sale items

Asos – Take 25% of site wide

Elemis – Take 25% off everything with code MEMORIAL25

H&M – Take 25% off any item

Intermix – Save up to 40% off select designer pieces

J.Crew – Take 30% off your entire purchase, plus an extra 50% off sale styles

Karen Millen – Get 50% off select styles

Lulu & Georgia – Take 20% off your entire purchase

Madewell – Take 25% off everything using code LONGWEEKEND

Neiman Marcus – Up to 50% off luxe brands

Nordstrom Rack – Save an extra 25% off sale items when you sign in

Revolve – Take an extra 20% off sale items

Serena & Lily – Take 20% off everything

West Elm – Warehouse Sale – take up to 70% off

xo, Maria

Summer is my favorite season to shop for fun, trendy pieces. The warm weather activities, vacation destinations, and opportunity to get out more always gets me in the mood to shop. One of the first places I go to get my summer wardrobe started is Nordstrom. They just always seem to dominate the trends. As soon as I spot something big on the horizon, they always work their magic and have it on their site within days. Combine that with their strong assortment of go-to basics and cute shoes to match, there’s really no need to shop elsewhere. No matter what I’m shopping for though, my one criteria is that it looks luxe and Nordstrom tends to deliver on that too. My latest haul is full of drool-worthy pieces that aren’t just affordable but will make you look more expensive. Scroll ahead to see my recent and favorite finds.

White wide leg pants are one of the best purchases you can make this season. From business casual to weekend vibes, you can style them in infinite ways and they always look chic. Whether you prefer a pair of clean jeans or smart trousers, Nordstrom has the best of both worlds. I’ve been wearing these 4th & Reckless pants on repeat and love high-rise fit. They look amazing with any crop top and make me feel extra sophisticated.

Bustier tops are one trend to embrace if you want to inject more femininity into your style. They’re sexy but subtle – and have the ability to elevate jeans or trousers to new heights. You can find them in an array of materials from knit to satin, which makes them easy to incorporate into your preferred aesthetic.

There’s no shortage of waist cutout dresses in my favorite designer resort collections. But since there’s no telling how long this trend will last, I’d rather save in this style category. Fortunately, Nordstrom has a ton of options from casual dresses to formal frocks that allow you to embrace the trend on a budget. They’re an essential this summer for vacations and night-outs.

All things Y2K and 90’s have been taking over. One style in particular that I predict will truly blow up in the next few weeks are body skimming skirts and dresses. They’re minimal yet comfortable nature, which make them easy to wear from the work week into the weekends.

I live for statement tops and have been a proponent of the puff sleeve for the past two years now. They remain as relevant as ever this season. Brands are updating them with sweetheart necklines, cutouts, lace-up details and bold prints. Just wear them with high-waisted pants or shorts for simple but luxe look.

If there’s one summer piece that will never go out of style, it’s got to be belted shorts. They’re perfect for girls who want to look pulled together on the most casual day. I love how easy they are to pull off with any of the major trends above. Nordstrom does not disappoint in this category either. These paperbag shorts are perfect and they’ll probably sell out fast.

xo, Maria

4th & Reckless Wide Leg Trousers (wearing an XS)
Pacsun Knit Bustier Crop Top (wearing an XS)
Open Edit Chain Strap Heels (run TTS)
Saint Laurent Canvas Tote
Rag & Bone Panama Hat

This post is sponsored by Nordstrom.

Nothing gets me as excited as a good sale. And lately, Tory Burch’s sale section has me joyously stocking up on summer essentials to beef up my wardrobe. As a long time fan of the brand, I am continually impressed with their quality and ability to hit on key trends while still remaining timeless in style. Since summer is inevitably on my mind at the moment, I thought I would take advantage of their latest sale to invest in pieces I can wear to any upcoming summer getaways. There are so many good Tory Burch items that you can use as you’re en route to your destination – and when you arrive. With up to 40% off handbags, shoes, and ready-to-wear, it was hard to limit my picks to just a few pieces. However, I was able to select 8 that I’d pack in my suitcase for my next vacation!

I always like to dress in layers but especially when I am traveling. The airport or the plane itself can be chilly so having a warm layer to throw on is essential. This Tory Burch find stole my heart because it puts a more stylish spin on the classic hoodie silhouette. The cashmere blend makes it incredibly soft too!

If you’re guilty of throwing all your makeup and skincare products into ziplock bags when traveling, consider this your sign to treat yourself and upgrade the summer season ahead. This nylon cosmetic case is large enough to store all your essential travel toiletries.

If you have yet to secure a beach bag for the season, your search is officially over. I absolutely love this large tote bag which features an easy-care nylon fabrication. It’s spacious enough to hold all your beach necessities, including a towel, sandals, sunscreen and more. The best part? You can reverse the bag for a brand new look. 

There is something about espadrilles and summertime that just make sense. I am loving this pair of textured wedges because the combination of natural jute and leather makes for such a chic statement. These could easily elevate anything from a summer dress to a pair of denim shorts.

The scarf is quickly becoming one of summer 2022’s hottest accessories. There are so many different uses for this particular scarf too! For instance, you can tie it around the straps of your favorite handbags, use it as a swim coverup, or throw it in your hair for a European inspired look.

We all have that one travel accessory that we tend to neglect but direly need at the last minute. The AirPod case is it for me. That’s why I’m eyeing this cute case from Tory Burch. Available in three colorways, you can attach it directly onto your beach bag, luggage or everyday handbag.

Of course when talking about summer travel essentials a bathing suit is sure to be at the top of the shopping list. This floral one-piece is gorgeous in both color and print but the details really set it apart from others. The keyhole cutout immediately elevates this swimsuit and the built-in SPF 50 helps to protect you from the sun.

I am constantly relying on an army of effortless dresses in the summer. This floral printed beach dress is ideal for any warm weather occasion. Plus, it is perfectly lightweight, making it easy to pack away for any future travel plans.

xo, Maria

This post is sponsored by Shoplooks x Tory Burch.

Happy Memorial Day! I hope you guys are enjoying some R&R over the long weekend. If you haven’t been able to squeeze in time for shopping, be sure to check out my post HERE and take advantage of all the great deals before they end. Today, I decided to take some time to pull the best selling products of the month and wasn’t so shocked to see that comfort and classic styles reigned supreme. With the seasons changing once again, it’s the perfect jumping point for summer fashion. Think knit dresses, linen separates and sleeveless layers – all of which you can find ahead. Keep scrolling for your most-loved products this month.

Balmain Blazer (better for budget here) | Abercrombie Button-Down Shirt | Commando Faux Patent Leather Leggings | Tom Ford Padlock Leather Sandals | Saint Laurent Sunglasses (better for budget here) | Louis Vuitton Coussin PM Bag

Balmain

1. Blazer

This particular blazer is cut with an oversized menswear fit, which feels super relevant for right now. Not only that but it hits my ultimate trifecta of fashion, function, and timelessness.

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Open Edit Blazer | Endless Rose Ribbed Top | Topshop Straight Leg Jeans | Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Crochet Tote | Vince Camuto Braided Heels (in bone leather) | Similar Aviator Sunglasses

Open Edit

2. Budget White Blazer

If you’re on the hunt for the perfect white blazer, look no further. This one is perfect for that work-to-weekend vibe.

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Vince Camuto

3. Braided Heels

Save 20% off on one of my favorite summer sandals now. They’re the best Bottega dupes on the market.

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Abercrombie Halter Top | Abercrombie Wide Leg Pants | Bottega Veneta The Pouch Bag | Rag & Bone Panama Hat (better for budget here)

Abercrombie

4. Wide-Leg Linen Pants

Stay polished and cool this summer with these breezy pants. They’ve sold out consistently but are back in stock.

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Open Edit Blazer | Amazon Workout Set | Church’s Boland Sneakers (also here) | Fendi Sunshine Tote | Similar Louis Vuitton Shawl | Balenciaga Baseball Cap (better for budget here)

Open Edit

5. Neutral Blazer

The best layer to reach for when you’re on the go. It’s perfectly oversized and lightweight, having the ability to pull you together in a pinch.

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4SI3NNA Long Sleeve Minidress | Vince Camuto Braided Heels | Saint Laurent Crochet Tote | Similar Bottega Veneta Aviator Sunglasses

4SI3NNA

6. Ribbed Knit Dress

If there’s one thing I can’t get enough of right now, it’s ribbed knit dresses. This one is best for summer with the shorter hemline and layered detailing.

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Karen Millen Sleeveless Trench (also love this one) | Fendi Sunshine Tote (exact size sold out, medium here) | Christian Louboutin Pumps (better for budget here)

Open Edit Blazer Vest (also love this one) | Revolve Faux Leather Shorts | Similar Lace-Up Heels | Louis Vuitton Toiletry Pouch 26 | Saint Laurent Sunglasses (better for budget here)

Open Edit

8. Blazer Vest

This season, I’m noticing that vests are the new blazer. I prefer a looser fit like this one for a relaxed tailored look.

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Similar Abercrombie Cutout Bodysuit | Nordstrom Paperbag Waist Pants (also love this one and this one) | Louis Vuitton Multi-Pochette Accessories Bag | Bottega Veneta Aviator Sunglasses (better for budget here)

Abercrombie

9. Cutout Bodysuit

Summer dressing is all about basics. The twist front detail and cutout gives this one that modern touch it needs.

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Majorelle Camel Top (exact style sold out, similar here and here) | Levi’s White Denim (also love this one) | Nike Daybreak Sneakers | NY Yankees Cap | Louis Vuitton Neverfull GM Tote

xo, Maria

Summer will officially kick off this month! If you haven’t started thinking about what handbag swaps you need to make, now is probably a good time. I’ve spent the past few years building up a well-rounded collection of designer handbags. When I take stock of my favorite ones for summer, they tend to revolve around woven textures and lighter colors that are suitable for any occasion. For instance, the Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Tote and Lou Camera Bag. I’ve since added some new pieces to my stash – and anticipate that they will become new summer favorites. I wanted to share them with you all today in case you’re deciding on your next investment piece.

Topshop Button-Down Shirt | Open Edit Chain Strap Heels | Chloe Woody Tote (large size) | Abercrombie White Skirt | Saint Laurent Sunglasses (better for budget here)

First up is one of my newer handbags of the season – the Chloe Woody Tote. The beige and brown color combo was made to be paired with your favorite summer looks. I also love the mix of fabrics from the canvas to the leather accents and the Chloe embroidered straps – it’s the perfect finishing touch. I got the large size so that I could carry it for travel, to the beach, or even as a work bag. It’s spacious enough to fit your daily essentials and so much more!

Karen Millen Utility Jacket | Karen Millen White Tank Top | Karen Millen Asymmetric Miniskirt | Bottega Veneta Jodie Mini Bag | Bottega Veneta Aviator Sunglasses (better for budget here) | Alexandre Birman Tie Ankle Heels (also here)

Also new on my summer handbag list is the Bottega Veneta Jodie Mini. It’s the perfect piece to carry when you’re going out. I love that it’s small enough to be tucked under your arm – but can also carried by the shoulder strap as seen above. Don’t be fooled by it’s tiny size and shape though because it’s big enough for your phone, cards and keys. Another thing to note is that there are no flashy logos, although the Bottega Intrecciato trademark weave and knot detail gives it away.

Similar Revolve Racer Tank Top (also here) | Similar Button-Down Midi Skirt | Bottega Veneta Aviator Sunglasses (better for budget here) | Fendi Sunshine Tote

You know a bag is truly worth it when you carry it on repeat no matter what season you’re in. One of those bags for me is the Fendi Sunshine Tote. I purchased it last year but it has seen me through fall, winter and spring. The structured shape adds instant polish to everything, so I love wearing it with casual and dressy looks alike. I anticipate that I’ll carry it repeatedly this summer.

Abercrombie Knit Dress | Rag & Bone Hat (better for budget here) | Valentino Rockstud Thong Sandals | Saint Laurent Raffia Crossbody Bag

Whenever I’m traveling to a warm weather destination, my Lou Raffia Camera Bag always tags along. The classic crossbody shape makes it so easy to haul around. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to get in and out of. The raffia texture also just screams summer, making it an easy pick.

Nordstrom Square Neck Bodysuit | Similar Revolve Satin Joggers | Rag & Bone Hat (better for budget here) | Tamara Mellon Heels (exact style sold out, better for budget here) | Similar Padlock Necklace | Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Tote

Nothing screams summer quite like my Saint Laurent linen tote. What’s so wonderful about this one is that it’s incredibly lightweight and pretty much holds everything. That means it can be used for a variety of purposes from a beach tote to a weekender bag to a makeshift diaper bag. You can also scoop it up in a smaller size that’s more sensible for everyday wear (HERE).

AllSaints Leather Jacket (better for budget here) | Similar Black Bodysuit | Abercrombie White Jeans | Saint Laurent Baseball Cap (also here) | Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Tote | Celine High Top Sneakers (better for budget here and here)

I usually don’t purchase the same exact bag in two colors; however, if I find myself using something repeatedly, I’ll make an exception. That was the case with my Saint Laurent linen tote. Since the linen material tends to be a little more delicate, I wanted something more durable that I wouldn’t be afraid to use as a carry-on bag when traveling. This canvas tote in the black colorway was exactly what I needed. You can check out my updated review HERE.

L’Agence Tweed Jacket | Good American White Bodysuit | Moussy Vintage Denim Shorts | Bottega Veneta Aviator Sunglasses (better for budget here) | Alexandre Birman Tie Ankle Heels (also here) | Bottega Veneta Chain Cassette Bag

This padded chain strap bag is actually another year-round favorite for me. I do tend to use it more in the summer because the chunky gold chain and structured look has a way of elevating every single outfit I wear. It just adds that luxe factor that other handbags can’t.

Open Edit Blazer | Endless Rose Ribbed Top | Topshop Straight Leg Jeans | Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Crochet Tote | Vince Camuto Braided Heels (in bone leather) | Similar Aviator Sunglasses

Saint Laurent’s Crochet Tote is another summer staple when you’re toting around a lot but want to look coastal chic. It’s finished with the brand’s Rive Gauche logo, so you still get that designer effect.

xo, Maria

Time just seems to be speeding up lately, and I can’t believe that we’re already almost half-way through the year! Last month, I traveled to Santa Barbara – it was so nice being able to shift gears and switch out of my winter attire into more playful, summery pieces. I’m always looking for an opportunity to look cute, and May just presented an opportune moment with my getaway trip. I was thrilled to return home to mild temperatures (similar to that of early summer), which meant that I could keep warm weather vibes going strong. If you need a replay of my favorite looks, I’m sharing them below and breaking down every detail!

Karen Millen Trench Coat | Karen Millen Cutout Leather Dress | Bottega Veneta Sunglasses | Alexandre Birman Tie Ankle Heels | Louis Vuitton Coussin Bag PM

Leather might sound too hot for summer, but it can work in the form of a dress with cutouts. The best thing about this one is that it also comes in yellow! If you want to soften things up, be sure to add this unstructured green trench coat.

4SI3NNA Long Sleeve Minidress | Open Edit Blazer | Vince Camuto Braided Heels (on sale now!) | Saint Laurent Crochet Tote | Similar Bottega Veneta Aviator Sunglasses

This entire outfit has been a best seller all month long. Not only are most of the pieces affordable but they can be re-worked into multiple looks down the road.

Abercrombie Beige Blazer (exact style sold out, similar here) | Amazon Workout Set | Saint Laurent Baseball Cap (also here) | Saint Laurent Rive Gauche Tote | Celine High Top Sneakers (better for budget here)

I practically lived in this Amazon workout set the entire spring season. It’s the easiest and most comfortable thing to throw on. To make it more presentable when I’m running out, I usually just throw on a blazer and sneakers.

Karen Millen Jumpsuit | Bottega Veneta Sunglasses | Saint Laurent Lou Raffia Bag | Manolo Blahnik Heels (better for budget here)

Karen Millen’s current collection won’t disappoint. I picked up so many new pieces last month – and this jumpsuit is one of my favorites. The double breasted buttons and split hem give it a look that sets it apart from other one-pieces.

WHBM Denim Moto Jacket | WHBM Beige Tee | WHBM Zip Hem Jeans | WHBM Double Band Heels | WHBM Chain Necklace | Bottega Veneta Aviator Sunglasses (better for budget here)

You guys know I live for white denim during the warmer months. I love how WHBM adds a touch of edge to their white denim styles with zippers. It offers a nice way to toss up your basics.

L’Academie Beige Sweater | Levi’s White Jeans | Nike Daybreak Sneakers | Fendi Sunshine Tote | NY Yankees Cap

The best spring and summer outfits are uncomplicated and effortless. Nothing defines that better than an oversized knit sweater, clean denim and sneakers.

Topshop Button-Down Shirt | Open Edit Chain Strap Heels | Chloe Woody Tote (large size) | Abercrombie White Skirt | Saint Laurent Sunglasses (better for budget here)

I love scoring chic, budget-friendly finds as much as I do designer pieces. Two of my latest purchases are this Topshop shirt and these Nordstrom brand heels. When worn together, they just pop!

Free Assembly Sleeveless Sweater Dress (wearing an XS) | Scoop Straw Crossbody Bag | Brinley Co. Strappy Sandals | Madden NYC Cat-Eye Sunglasses

If you’re shopping for understated dresses that look good anywhere, this Walmart one is worth exploring. The halter neckline and body-hugging midi fit feel so in-the-moment. It’s one of those pieces that you can wear at work, on the weekends or on vacation.

Astr The Label Puff Sleeve Top | Agolde Jeans | Jeffrey Campbell Nude Heels | Bottega Veneta Aviator Sunglasses (better for budget here) | Fendi Sunshine Tote

The fashion item that I get most excited for once it warms up is a cute statement top. I just love how they instantly dress up a pair of jeans. This Astr the Label one highlights the season’s best details from pretty puffed sleeves to ruched details and a smocked back.

Express White Blazer | Express Crop Top | Express Belted Pants | Express Woven Clutch | Bottega Veneta Aviator Sunglasses (better for budget here)

For those days when you want zero thinking and minimal layering involved when getting dressed, you need a matching set. I just picked up this one (here and here) from Express and it’s going to become my new summer uniform. 

xo, Maria