My criteria for a mid-summer essential can be summed up in three words: comfortable, easy and fully washable. Sticky banana stains and rogue finger paint are not unlikely in these parts, so I’m continually steering clear of the dreaded Dry Clean Only label. And with frequent walks to playgrounds, parks and neighborhood haunts, comfort and ease are total requirements for chasing down little feet at a moment’s notice.
But perhaps more importantly, my summer essentials need to be versatile. As a general rule, if a piece can’t be worn three different ways in three different seasons, it’s not worth the real estate in my closet.
Enter: the gauzy skirt.
WHY?
What can be thrown on for an impromptu trip to the zoo can be easily donned for a Sunday morning service or pre-dinner drinks (or shimmied up as a dress). Spring, summer and fall beyond — there is, quite literally, know way to fail here.
HOW?
I’m most frequently pairing my gauzy skirt with a tee or tank, and with a bit of accessorizing, you can customize the look according to your favorite style. Stuck on styling? Think balance in terms of silhouette: try a slim, structured top to contrast the more ethereal bottom.
WHICH?
My very, very favorite gauzy skirt is the Full Frayed Gauze Skirt from It Is Well ($162) – ethically made (with pockets!), and a large portion of all proceeds go toward building wells in much-needed communities. If you’re in the market, below are a few additional alternatives:
For a lightweight midi length in 100% cotton, try this bestseller from Elizabeth Suzann ($210).
For a washed linen version with more weight and less length, try this handmade high-waisted style from Not Perfect Linen ($69).
For a similar, budget-friendly look, try this gauze maxi skirt ($24) or the plus size version here ($26).
For the skirt averse, try these 100% gauze linen pull-on pants from made-in-the-USA favorite Stelen ($128).
And lastly, for the home, dress up your favorite surface with a washed linen table runner (it doubles as a scarf!) ($13).
More summer style essentials up next week, and in the mean time, tell me: what are your go-to summer threads? I’d love to hear!
I’ve never seen this skirt before, and it’s so interesting, I love it! And, as always, you have such lovely vibrant photos. <3
Natalie | Natalie’s Alchemy
Thank you, Natalie!
Again and again I turn to maxi dresses I picked up at Costco a couple years ago – 3 colors of the same style – that I continue to get compliments on. The black one especially goes from bo-ho chic to fancy-schmancy with the choice of shoes and accessories. AND they’re washable, AND they’re super comfy. = )
YES to 3 dresses in the style, and a basic black! You sound like me. :)
If you can, please share where the cropped frayed edge top is from? i have something similar from Anthropologie….Gracias
It’s from Singapore a few years ago, actually!
I love this skirt!I love loose flowy things that can be worn different ways. Since Im pregnant right now I feel like I kind of have to hold off from investing in really nice versatile pieces. My go to this summer has been a sleeveless above the knee dress, I have one in black, grey, and blue. I layer tanks under them or shirts over them and dress them up or down with jewelry, sandals, and flats.I am looking forward to cooler seasons to be able to layer more.
Oh, Hannah – that sounds lovely!!! And congrats on your pregnancy. :)