Summer In The City

Summer is finally here, and after sheltering in place for over two months, anyone who says “staying at home” has been a breeze would be lying. Some days have been easier while others have been a struggle. But what you wear can make all the difference in how your day pans out. Throw on a pair of joggers  — you are relaxed, comfortable and maybe less productive. However, throw on a black blazer — you look more put together and ready for Zoom. 

But it’s not just about how you look. Our outfits can affect how we feel. “Your choice of attire has powerful feedback effects; it sends internal messages which can boost or dampen your mood and even alter your thought processes and capabilities,” writes psychologist Karen Pine in her book “Mind What You Wear: The Psychology of Fashion.” As our country continues to grapple with the unknowns of COVID-19 and the tumultuous social and political climate, we need all the help we can get to boost our moods and give us hope for the future. 

Since many of us may still be cautious about venturing out, let us revisit the classics in our closet for all the Facetime calls and virtual happy hours. I absolutely love the classics, like a white T-shirt or a maxi dress, which can be worn time and time again. But don’t fret if a few of these staples are nowhere to be found in your closet; I’ve included links to some of my favorites. I hope you feel inspired to get dressed up to take on whatever life throws at you! 

xx Ivy

Silk Pajamas

Overslept and now rushing to jump on a Zoom call? A silk pajama top paired with your favorite jeans will do the trick…or the pajama set alone works, too!

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White Button Down

Don’t have a white button down? Borrow one from his closet, like I always do. Bonus: this doubles as a swim coverup and nightgown as well.

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Black Blazer

After working out in your biker shorts, throw on a classic black blazer and you’re instantly dressed for a business call! 

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White T-Shirt & Cargo Pants

Haven’t changed out of your sweats in a few days? Reach for versatile cargo pants paired with a classic white T-shirt instead. The pants also can be easily dressed up with a black silk cami, black blazer and strappy heels. 

White T - Shirt

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Cargo Pants

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Cobalt Blue Top

A solid top — especially in cobalt blue — looks good on everyone, especially on screen. It’s a definite must-have in your closet!

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Little White Dress

A maxi dress does the trick for the vertically challenged (like myself). A Little White Dress, such as this one, can be easily dressed down with white sneakers (I like Stan Smiths).

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Summer Print Dress

A summer dress with a fun print will surely brighten any Facetime, Zoom, Google Hangout, or Houseparty call! For a socially distanced evening out, throw on a leather jacket to give your dress that edge, especially when dining outdoors at a restaurant.

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Accessories

Accessorize is the name of the game to spice things up when you go with classics. Try adding a bucket hat and statement necklace, or a colorful scarf, headband and fun earrings. The timepiece is just as important, even if you don’t have anywhere to be except your kitchen table turned office desk.

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Fashion Editor: Ivy Payne

Photographer: Phillip Troy

Wardrobe Stylist: Blake Ivy