It's Too Hot For Fashion — Wear This Instead
Heatwave attire, sorted.
Attempting to write about fashion feels futile in the midst of New York City’s misery-inducing heatwave. But somebody’s got to do it! We’re all still getting dressed, aren’t we?
At the start of the week, I came to the frightful realization that my summer wardrobe was ill-equipped to handle the sweltering heat and sticky subway seats of this particularly hellish New York summer. I tend to leave the bulk of my lightweight linens down the shore for weekend visits to my parents, and I found myself woefully without the kind of sundress I could throw on without wreaking sweaty havoc upon it.
My solution? Surprise, surprise — I went shopping. Below, my guide to four easy, key pieces I’ve deemed essential for looking good when the weather surpasses balmy and goes straight to inferno.
A Don’t-Touch-My-Skin Sundress
Wearing a bra feels absolutely out of the question when the temperature reaches inhumane levels — as does wearing whatever else might qualify as clingy, tight or in any way restrictive.
I filled a major hole in my wardrobe when I impulse-purchased two new Nap Dresses from Hill House Home — I got The Elise in Yellow Basketweave Vine ($248) and The Seraphina in Wisteria ($228). (I have plenty of the classic Ellie silhouette, but I were to get another, I’d go for the festive new Swedish Floral print.)
These are the kind of dresses folks like me wear when others might opt for shorts and a tank top. I can’t, and I won’t! These frocks are just as breathable (breezier, even!) and looks a million times better. Plus, the brand’s signature smocking at the bust makes a no-bra moment feel less scandalous.
Indoor-Outdoor Sunnies You Never Take Off
Receiving the gift of my Miu Miu MU 54YS ($367, originally $629) from Luxottica last year irrevocably changed my summer aesthetic for the better. I am now rarely without these sunnies. And for good reason!
Indoor-outdoor sunglasses, as I call them, are shades with extremely lightly tinted lenses — the benefit here being that you don’t need to take them off while running errands, grabbing coffee with a friend, etc.
As someone who likes a full face of makeup (but isn’t silly enough to do a full beat just to sweat it all off) I wear these babies like armor when it’s hot out. They do an impeccable job of masking my greasy, flushed complexion, and I have everyone fooled into believing I am simply not so disturbed by the heat as those around me. BTW, this Amazon pair ($16.95) looks like a great affordable alternative.
Flip Flips With Jewelry-Level Toe Rings
I know, I know — it should be illegal to have your dogs out in the city. But sometimes, a girl is just too hot to give a damn! I at least do my darnedest to make my city sandals seem chic, and a recent favorite has been this now-sold-out pair from Zara with a chunky silver toe ring.
The metal toe ring is a major trend all over the footwear market right now, and I’ve noticed great pairs from Jeffrey Campbell ($74.95) and Steve Madden ($79.75), among others. I know my trusty espadrilles, ballet flats or even sneakers would be more socially acceptable than baring my toes on the subway, but the heat makes us all do some crazy things, doesn’t it?
Updos That Distract From Sweaty Strands
Last but not least, my number one tip for looking polished in a pool of sweat. Put your damn hair up — but accessorize, while you’re at it!
Followers of my Instagram know I’ve been working with the RPZL team on an upcoming collection of hair accessories, and the two pictured here (The Bella Cuff and The Morgan Stacked Cuff) are some of the under-$30 pieces I’m most excited about.
More information to come soon, but I’d strongly encourage you to start perfecting your slicked-back buns now! We’ll definitely be launching in the next few weeks, and I’ll share a more detailed post then.
x BG