The June Edit With Caroline

With the official start of summer only a few days away, I’m kicking off the season with a few new favorites from the three stores for my wardrobe and home with luxurious, lightweight fabrics and outdoor dining essentials. This time of year, we’re all eyes on light-as-air dresses, dinners al fresco, and memorable celebrations with friends. So for this month’s edition of The Edit, I’m sharing my curated picks for your summer wardrobe, outdoor dining space, plus some easy gifting ideas, so you don't arrive empty handed at your next gathering. 

When curating my summer wardrobe, I want getting dressed to feel effortless, without losing the luxe factor. And with a few summer gatherings lined up, I like to have a couple of stand out dresses on hand. The Perfect Dress from Raquel Allegra is just that – an antique cotton tea-length dress in the designer’s tie-dye tiger motif. The feminine, breezy silhouette embodies everyday summer style that can easily be dressed up with the Peri Pleated Knot Wedge Espadrilles.

Alternatively, the Ivette Flutter Sleeve Midi Dress from Sea NY is a beautiful option for a wedding, bridal shower or garden party. I love how the smocked bodice and sleeves create a flattering silhouette, and the cotton fabric will keep you cool on the hottest summer days. I’m styling it with the same espadrille wedges for a look you will reach for time and again.

A cotton pant in the summer is key for keeping cool in style. My favorites are the Sailor Pants from California-based brand, Jesse Kamm. Made with a fine cotton canvas that’s structured and keeps its shape, this pant has a super flattering fit that is slim in the waist and hips with a high rise. I’m styling them here with this beautiful Lelmon Blouse from Isabel Marant Étoile and Oliver Peoples TK-3 Sunglasses in brushed silver. Bohemian inspired and cut from a soft airy cotton, this blouse will wear well into the fall too.

Shopping for the right shorts is akin to bathing suits in my book. But I’ve finally landed on the right ones that look chic and make me feel comfortable too. The Stella High Rise Shorts from AGOLDE are cut with a cinched, high waist and relaxed silhouette with room through the thigh. They also have an angled hem for an ultra-flattering fit. Wear yours with a basic tee or dress it up with the same Isabel Marant Étoile blouse and a sandal, like the String Flip Flop Sandals from Ancient Greet Sandals, which wraps up your ankle and calf. 

A summer sneaker is great for travel or adding some edge to a more casual look. I'm a big fan of Golden Goose sneakers for their comfort and one-of-a-kind styles and the Stardan Sneakers are a standout this season. They pay homage to the basketball icons of the 90’s with the white mesh fabric and suede star detailing. Wear with dresses, shorts or pants – the options are endless.

There’s nothing better than enjoying dinner al fresco on a warm summer night. To set the table I like to use my favorite outdoor servingware – like these Salad Bowls, Plates and Salad Servers from the Bibol Collection. Crafted from bamboo, these sustainable pieces are lightweight, versatile and unbreakable, making them perfect for outdoor dining. They can even be packed up for a picnic, too!

When I’m setting an outdoor table I like to bring in lightweight cotton and linen, like these cotton fringe placemats made by artisans in Guinea. I try to avoid disposable paper napkins, so a great alternative is linen for its lightweight feel, plus it washes well too. This set of four napkins in pinstripe are made from European flax for a super soft feel and are perfect for summer dining. And my favorite Cane Napkin Rings add a naturally beautiful textural accent to any table top.

Summer dining tends to be more on the casual side, but if I’m looking to elevate my table I always turn to candlelight – it’s a lovely way to welcome guests and create a moody, yet inviting space. I use these Antique Brass Candlesticks year round, inside and out, and right now I’m topping mine with the Rope Candles in cream.

Creating a comfortable and inviting outdoor space is necessary when hosting summer gatherings or unwinding after a day at work. I use these Tufted Chair Cushions on the seats of my outdoor dining table and love how soft and plush they are. They're made from 100% cotton by artisans in Guinea using hand-dyed and hand-wound yarn. The fabric is recyclable and also super durable for long lasting use.

The start of summer can be a busy time of year – from vacations and weddings to graduations and birthdays. So I like to stock the stores with plenty of easy gift ideas for every occasion. Make it personal with this beautiful 4 Diamond Barnacles Necklace from Adina Reyter. Made from 14k yellow gold with naturally sourced diamonds, this makes a lovely birthday or bridal shower gift.

Add a colorful accent piece to her wardrobe with The Puzzle Square from Jane Carr. With a mix of wallpaper florals, spots and camouflage in pops of pink, purple, blue and neutral, she'll love the bold versatility of this cashmere modal-blend scarf. Alternatively, this Thistle Kimono is a lightweight, silky layering piece she can easily wear over a dress, a simple camisole or even a swimsuit!

Gifting perfume can be tricky, which is why I love this Perfume Oil Discovery Set from Maison Louis Marie. Made from clean non-toxic ingredients, this set of five mini perfume oils is sized to try and travel with easily. Made with a blend of organic, energy-rich oils and plant-based ingredients, the Susanne Kaufmann Hand Cream is nourishing and calming. This a personal favorite of mine, so I love giving it as a gift.

Enhance her morning mediation with The Untamed Elemental oracle deck. Illustrated by abstract artist Tasya van Ree to feature 52 representations of animals and earth elements, this deck invites you to connect your body, mind and spirit with the rhythm of the seasons. I love how it can offer insightful ways to bring imbalances into a state of healing and wholeness.

For the hostess, this handmade ceramic Lace Cheeseboard is a beautiful addition for any entertainer. It’s handcrafted in Tennessee using genuine lace for a unique, one-of-a-kind feel and texture. A lovely way to serve cheeses, nuts, crackers and more! Freshen up her home with this Crushed Mint Candle, fit with a seeded paper dust cover that's plantable.

A sculptural work of art, the Ceramic Pirout Vase from Louise Roe would make a beautiful wedding gift. The designer works in Copenhagen with asymmetrical shapes, finding ways to balance out the unpredictable and uneven. 

What better way to welcome the long summer days ahead than with a few new additions to your wardrobe and outdoor tabletop, plus some easy gifts for upcoming celebrations. Lately I've been packing my schedule from sunrise to sunset, so these summertime essentials are just what I need this busy time of year. Happy Summer Solstice!