The August Edit With Caroline
From coast to coast, it feels like we are currently in the peak of summer, and I'm soaking it all in (aside from the relentless humidity here in New York). While my wardrobe currently consists of dresses, sandals and the lightest layers possible, I'm making room for a small taste of fall – think boots, lightweight sweaters and seasonal handbags, while still keeping summer attire at the forefront. I've also been feeling the urge to refresh areas of my home, such as my kitchen, which has been feeling a bit stale lately. So for August's edition of The Edit, I'm sharing my curated collection of new favorites for your wardrobe, accessories collection and kitchen space.
While it’s hard to imagine dressing in anything more than a dress or shorts, I like to begin incorporating fall-inspired yet summer-friendly pieces into my wardrobe – plaid prints, casual tees and of course, a dress or two. The Almeya Dress from Isabel Marant Étoile with its brown ikat print and versatile silhouette can be worn with sandals, like the Aeyde Ella Sandals, or boots and a jacket when the temperature cools.
To mix up my denim collection, the Sia Pants from Sea NY are made from stretch cotton with a wide leg for the perfect blend of casual, yet sophisticated. With a flattering higher rise and cargo pockets, I’m styling with a vintage tee (I’m partial to this George Michael Crew), and when an extra layer is needed, the Harveli Coat from Isabel Marant Étoile can be draped over your shoulders or worn on top. I’m obsessed with the “shacket” style that I know I will live in through fall.
Take your shorts game up a notch with the ultra chic Valentina Shorts from Vanessa Bruno. The front pleats and high-waist style creates a flattering silhouette, plus the houndstooth print makes these perfect for wearing now and into the fall months. Style with the Myclan Sweater from Isabel Marant Étoile – a light layer that can be worn solo, over a tee or blouse or tied around the shoulders, the options are endless.
The Verenice Dress from Vanessa Bruno is soft, warm and easy to wear. When evenings start to cool down, this sweater dress is the first piece I'll reach for. I love the fringe detailing and can’t wait to pair it with chic knee-high boots (see here). Transition your eyewear to something a bit more moody with the Airdale Sunglasses from Oliver Peoples.
A core collection of accessories is fundamental in completing any look – from shoes and handbags to belts and scarves. The Leon M style tote from Jérôme Dreyfuss has been a best seller for years, and the Santa Fe Sable print is one of my favorites to date. This statement bag can be worn over the shoulder or hand held and features a leather pouch inside, plus the print and colors are especially fitting for summer and fall. I also love everything about the suede Jerry Banane from Jérôme Dreyfuss - style it as a belt bag or crossbody and it has removable fringe too. It's the perfect running around bag that will house just the essentials.
While I’m still living in sandals, I’ve begun prepping my fall wardrobe by adding in a few new boots. An ankle style like the Deone Boots from Isabel Marant Étoile wear well with a variety of looks, from dresses and jeans to pants and skirts. The suede fabric and low profile heel allows you to dress them up or down. For a taller style, the 45mm Suede Boots from Vanessa Bruno add elegance to dresses and skirts.
Where function meets style, a statement belt will take any outfit to the next level. In last month’s edit, I featured the Zap Belt from Isabel Marant Étoile, and I love it so much it’s part of my favorites yet again. I'm styling mine with white denim and a tee for a casual weekend look. Alternatively, the Ilo Belt from Isabel Marant Étoile is a bit wider and adds shape to flowy summer dresses.
A white sneaker is a classic that never goes out of style, and I’m currently coveting the Pure Star Sneakers from Golden Goose. They feature a shock-absorbent technology for optimal comfort, making them the perfect travel shoes, and the snake print heel gives an added special touch. Time and again I turn to the Clarita 75 Heels from Alexandre Birman when I need to elevate my look – from denim to dresses. They're handcrafted from smooth leather with a signature bow accent, and the black color wears well year round.
The Shine Bandana is my go-to accessory when my look is feeling too basic. It can be worn around the neck, wrapped around the head or as a pocket square. It’s the perfect way to accessorize without adding too much bulk.
Every so often my kitchen needs a bit of an upgrade – sometimes I’m in a cooking rut, need new tools or the space just needs some sprucing. Whatever it may be, this is what I’m loving for a little kitchen refresh… our vintage wood benches are our customers favorites, so when I discovered these Vintage Crescent Stools, I was thrilled to bring one into my kitchen. They're the perfect size for when you need to reach that top shelf or sit and chat with the chef.
The sink area gets a lot of use, so keeping it stocked with a soap that I love is essential. To reduce plastic, I use this Mater Kitchen Block, which is made from coconut, olive and castor oils with lavender, cedar wood and eucalyptus essential oils. Not only is it non-toxic and biodegradable, but it’s super effective too.
To clean off root vegetables, this Vegetable Brush is an all time favorite. It’s plastic free and super durable, so it will last for years to come. When storing herbs and vegetables, I try to avoid plastic and instead use this set of Reusable Produce Bags. They're made from organic cotton with mesh for breathability. Alternatively, for more of a multipurpose bag, these cotton Bento Bags come in three different sizes with tie closures and are great for bulk shopping, storing food, packing a lunch and traveling.
Whether you’re an avid cook or a novice, adding new tools is a great way to instantly inspire meal prepping. I love this set of handmade Teak Measuring Cups. They're fair trade and a great plastic-free alternative. This White Marble Spoon Rest will enhance your kitchen decor, while keeping countertops clean.
A fresh dish towel with a fun print is great way to add character to a kitchen. This Flour Sack Dish Towel is handprinted using water-based, eco-friendly inks and is made from lightweight cotton. And as a dog lover, this is my favorite print. When I’m in a cooking rut, a new cookbook is the perfect dose of inspiration. Lately I’ve been flipping through Everyone’s Table, from award-winning chef Gregory Gourdet. It’s filled with healthy, flavorful dishes that focus on superfood ingredients.
I hope you're all enjoying those magical moments of summer – from sun-soaked days and lounging poolside, to seaside dips and family getaways. With September only two weeks away, you'll find everything you need to help you transition into those fall months right this way, and I hope this is a good little taste to start.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.