The July Edit With Caroline

The season of sun-filled days, vacations and outdoor gatherings is here, and at DIANI we have all the essentials to keep you cool in style. This time of year can be super busy, so organizing my wardrobe, suitcase and home with a few seasonal favorites makes dressing, packing and hosting that much easier – think printed dresses, silky tie-dye sets, chic sun hats and warm-weather bedding. So for this month’s edition of The Edit, I’m sharing my current summer picks – from clothing and accessories to all the essentials for outfitting a guest bedroom. 

Whether you're packing your travel bag, indulging in a staycation or heading to a summer party, having a versatile collection of pieces to choose from is key. Right now I’m living in this breezy hand-dyed cotton set from Raquel Allegra. With its soft tie-dye print, this muscle tank and the matching drawstring trousers are perfect for travel or lounging at home.

Take this printed maxi dress on vacation, dress it up for dinner, or wear it to a wedding – the options are endless. The Ema Maxi Dress from Chufy is made from a colorful hand-painted silk and has a puff sleeve and a loose body with trailing ties to open as desired. I’m styling it with the Italian leather Ella Sandals from Aeyde, which feature a toe thong and delicate diagonal foot straps for endless versatility.

A little white dress is essential for summer, and I’m currently loving the Capri Dress from Mirth. Made from hand-loomed cotton with a ruffled collar and a unique cut-yarn stripe design throughout, this is the perfect dress to wear on vacation, to a bridal shower or a summer dinner al fresco. I’m styling it with the Olga Heels from Aeyde, a stiletto-style heel with leather knotted strap detail.

Keep cool in style in the colorfully printed Aldo Shorts from Chufy. Made from organic cotton poplin, this high-waisted style has loose pleated legs giving them an 80’s utilitarian feel. The lightweight, soft fabric is perfect for travel and warm weather. Style with the matching Nora Blouse and the Ella sandals to complete the look.

White denim shorts are a staple, and I’ve finally found a style I can feel good in. The AGOLDE Parker Long Vintage Shorts are made from 100% cotton with a fringed hem for optional cuffing. I’m styling mine with this lightweight stripe sweatshirt from Brazeau Tricot to wear on cool summer evenings. It’s made from fine gauge cashmere with light distressing on the neckline and hem.

When looking to accessorize a summer look, I go for neutral tones and natural fibers. I’m always reaching for a hat this time of year, and my new favorite is the Gena Junior Hat from Van Palma. Made from toquilla straw by artisans in Ecuador, this wide brim hat has a delicate gold plated brooch on the side. Alternatively, the Anna Hat from Van Palma is a darker color and made from wool felt, also with a gold plated brooch on the side. When styling this hat, I'm pairing it with darker colors, like a black dress or navy blouse.

Whether I’m staying local or vacationing, I like to keep my bag lightweight and travel-friendly and containing only the essentials. The Botsy Bag from Isabel Marant Étoile is made from leather with an adjustable strap to be worn over the shoulder or as a crossbody, and the neutral color makes it super versatile too. And there are occasions when I want to carry just my phone with me and cash or a card, so for that purpose, I love this Raffia iPhone Bag handmade with cotton poplin lining and raffia fiber. 

Nothing says summer like statement gold jewelry and I wear a few gold bangles everyday, but when I want to layer up, I turn to pieces like the Fuliwa Cuff from Soko. Handcrafted by artisans in Kenya using locally-sourced and eco-friendly materials, this piece is made from 24k gold plated brass with a textural wave design. I also love these Hammered Hoop earrings from Soko. The large size makes a statement, but the dainty, delicate silhouette keeps it subtle.

A belt is a great practical accent for any look and the Zap Belt from Isabel Marant Étoile is a current favorite. With a suede finish and studded embellishments, this belt adds style and shape to the waist of a dress, denim shorts or a pair of trousers.

For a hint of color and print, The Ranch Neckerchief from Jane Carr is perfect for the warm summer months. It’s made from a cotton silk blend, and its lightweight feel and subtle floral and bandana print make it a classic to be worn around the neck or tied up as a headband or head scarf. And these made-for-summer sunnies from Oliver Peoples are a favorite for their modern aesthetic and brushed gold finish.

During the summer months, I typically host a few friends for a visit, so I like to spruce up my guest bedroom a bit. First I swap out the bedding, and currently I’m using linen sheets and this duvet cover in natural from Cultiver. Lightweight yet cozy, linen is perfect for both warm and cool sleepers as it naturally regulates body temperature. I use it year round on my bed, so it’s a must for my guests too.

Then I add in a few throw cushions to top the bed, like this Stripe Grain Sack and this Grey Batik, which I custom designed using vintage handmade fabrics. Blue and grey tones work well in a guest bedroom for their calm, relaxing effect.

At the foot of the bed I have this handmade Vintage Wooden Bench. It's the perfect spot to sit and take off or put on shoes. For ambient lighting, the Eight Over Eight Marble Lamp Base from Louise Roe is handmade in Italy and carved from one solid piece of marble showing its unique texture and color. Shop the Lamp Shade here.

Keeping with the neutral color palette, this Ceramic Balloon Vase is a beautiful statement on a side table or shelf in your guest bedroom. Leave it as is or add in some fresh or dried flowers. To freshen up the room before guests arrive, I always light a candle, like this Lavender and Rosemary Candle, which is handcrafted in the U.S. from start to finish and the scent is a DIANI favorite.

A lovely way to greet guests is to have a Rattan Tray on the bed with some of their favorite things – from tea and books to candles and incense. This adds a special, personalized touch to the space that anyone will love. And for a little fun, this luxe Lacquer Tic Tac Toe game is super chic and sure to delight.