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Summer Vacation Ready with Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor Summer Vacation Essentials Ann Taylor Summer Vacation Essentials Ann Taylor Summer Vacation Essentials Ann Taylor Summer Vacation EssentialsAnn Taylor Summer Vacation EssentialsAnn Taylor Summer Vacation Essentials Ann Taylor Summer Vacation Essentials Ann Taylor Summer Vacation Essentials Ann Taylor Summer Vacation EssentialsTop // Skirt // Sandals // Sunglasses // Handbag 
c/o Ann Taylor

The past couple of weeks I’ve talked about wardrobe essentials – my warm weather go-tos and overall classics.  With summer officially here, everyone has one thing on the brain: summer vacation.  Whether you’re taking a big trip or a quick weekend getaway, your vacation essentials should be easy, comfortable and chic.

Summer vacation for me is all about the “S’s”: sunnies, sandals, straw accessories, nautical stripes and chambray (close enough).

Ann Taylor has long been a go-to for elegant classics.  I just took my first summer trip and refreshed my wardrobe with some of my favorite “S’s”.  I’ve been loving straw bags lately and when I saw this cute pom-pom adorned tote, I knew it was the perfect bag for sightseeing and beach time.  It’s lined in fun green fabric and super lightweight for all day wear.

Chambray is one of my favorite summer fabrics and since I already own a jumpsuit and blazer, it was time to add a skirt to the mix.  I love the paper bag waist on this one.  Bonus points because it has pockets!

Since entering my 30’s I’ve pretty much abandoned stilettos save for a few special occasions.  I much prefer a block heel and these beauties are not only sexy, but oh-so-comfortable.  With a padded footbed and super soft suede, they go with everything and can be worn all day.  They come in six colors (I may have to get the toffee ones too).

And who could deny a nautical strip for summer?  Crisp and classic, the pattern pops against dark and light colors alike.  This sleeveless sweater is super flattering and has multiple styling opportunities, a great bonus when on vacation. The keyhole neckline is sweet and versatile.  I’m actually wearing it backward!

If you’re in the San Diego area, join me tonight for a Rosé Soirée at Ann Taylor Fashion Valley to celebrate the start of summer!  We’ll shop must-have pieces and there will be seasonal sips and snacks.  Plus, two lucky winners will take home a tote full of summer getaway essentials.  Details below.

Rosé Soirée
Ann Taylor Fashion Valley
Wednesday, June 27th
6:00 – 8:00pm

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Summer Wardrobe Essentials

Bill Blass bow sandals Bill Blass bow sandalsBill Blass bow sandals Bill Blass bow sandals Bill Blass bow sandals Bill Blass bow sandalsBill Blass bow sandals Bill Blass bow sandals  Bill Blass bow sandals

Pharaoh Collection dress via Pink Lagoon // Mansur Gavriel mini bucket bag // Marrow Fine ring
Nordstrom sunglasses // Bill Blass sandals (c/o)

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And just like that, the year is half over.  Summer is right around the corner and I couldn’t be more excited!

Since this is my first OOTD since having a baby, I wanted to share my summer wardrobe essentials.  Normally I’m a cutoffs girl in summer, but since my body is still returning to its pre-baby size, denim is a bit tricky.  I’ve been super into dresses lately and took major advantage of sale season.

This striped shirt dress is super lightweight and comfy.  Made of breathable cotton, it will keep me cool through our Socal scorchers.  I love the wrap effect – it’s a great way to hide my tummy and looks very “I just returned from vacation”.  I purchased it from an amazing boutique, Pink Lagoon, in Solana Beach.  If you’re from San Diego, you must check it out.  I will actually be talking more about Pink Lagoon in future posts, so stay tuned!

My normal dark color palette definitely goes lighter in summer as I swap all my black accessories for white ones.  I own this bag in two colors, and the white tumbled leather looks super crisp and fresh with any outfit.  These sunnies are only $14 and instantly brighten up a look.

My advice?  Invest in white accessories for summer.  They will look amazing against dark color palettes in fall and winter too when you want a break from your basic black staples.

Finally, these sandals are such a fun addition to my wardrobe.  The double bow detail is feminine without being precious and I adore the fact that they are tweed.  Such an unexpected fabric for summer but oh-so-cool!  They have a cushioned sole making them perfect for long walks sightseeing, running errands or cruising the beach.