Tag: Summer Style

STYLE: THE SHANNON DRESS

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One of my favorite classic brands, Duffield Lane, launched their spring resort collection and it’s my favorite collection to date! Think blue and white stripes, seersucker, bright pinks – all of my favorite things in one collection!

Duffield Lane was kind enough to send me the new Shannon Dress – yes the SHANNON (I think they designed this with me in mind 😉) and it’s the perfect classic navy seersucker dress. I’ve been wearing it on repeat and it quickly has become a favorite dress for this spring, summer and even fall!

I’m sharing a review of it and breaking it down based on style, fit and quality. Please note that these opinions are my own and although the dress was gifted, I’m sharing this blog post because I love this brand and this dress so much.

STYLE

I think it goes without saying that this style of dress is completely on brand for me. I’m not sure what detail I love the most: the navy stripes, the seersucker, the flirty tiered skirt, the adjustable waist, or the nautical gold buttons. All of these details are just perfect. This style of dress will be forever classic and timeless and I cannot wait to wear it year after year.

FIT

I adore the fit of this dress. I’m eight months postpartum and I’m still figuring out this new post baby body. It’s extra important to me right now that I feel good in what I’m wearing and this dress makes me feel amazing. I love the adjustable waist and the length of this dress. I’m petite and many times I find myself having to hem dresses (otherwise I get swallowed in them). The one critique I have is the sleeves. Initially they were a bit snug, but the more I wear this dress, the more they stretch out so the material is a bit flexible! I feel so confident in this dress and that makes it a new favorite.

QUALITY

Per usual, the quality of this Duffield Lane dress is outstanding. The attention to detail is just beautiful. I love that the fabric is thin enough that I won’t be hot as the weather continues to warm, but it’s not too thin that it’s see through. I’ve always had a positive experience with the quality of fabric and craftsmanship of my Duffield Lane pieces and this Shannon dress doesn’t disappoint.

If you have been eyeing this dress (or any piece from Duffield Lane), I highly recommend investing in it! I promise you will feel and look amazing. You definitely will not be disappointed! 

Here are a few other styles I’m loving from the latest Resort Collection.

Adele Dress in Pink Stripe

Tate Top in Pink Colorblock

McKenna Crew Neck in Pink and Blue Stripe

Annie Dress in Blue Stripe

Happy Shopping!

Sláinte,

Shannon

STYLE: SUMMER BLUES

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I must preface this blog post with a recap of this photoshoot and a little behind the scenes. Taking photos with a toddler in tow is always exciting and unpredictable, but this photoshoot in particular was exceptionally challenging. When we arrived down by The Docks, Rob and I both realized we forgot our wallets at home (for those not local, The Docks are a row of high end restaurants situated snugly along the Maumee River with gorgeous views of the Toledo skyline across the way). Eeeek. Not a huge deal as we were not planning to eat or shop, but a big deal if we happened to get pulled over!

Fast forward a bit and as I gave Rob the go ahead to start snapping away, three geese came out of nowhere, charging towards me! While I had geese chasing me for food, Rob realized that our camera battery was dead. Clearly we were not off to the best start! To add to the frustration, L fell and skinned her knee and we realized after 30 minutes of being out in the sun, we forgot to put sunscreen on L. Oy! Nonetheless, we continued on with the photo shoot and L had a great time running along the boardwalk. And looking back we can have a good chuckle about how imperfect this blogging world truly is.

Now onto the fun stuff! It’s that time of year where some people hold on to summer, some rush towards fall, and some try and blend the two seasons as best they can. I’m definitely feeling those summer blues and I’m more apt to hold on to summer as long as possible, but the cooler mornings and evenings means that fall is inevitably on its way. I’m finding myself reaching for my beach sweaters and button ups as an extra layer in the morning and then going back to full on summer come the afternoon. Sometimes the transition in between seasons is the most challenging to dress for, so below I’m sharing some ways that you can keep blend two seasons together.

For this outfit, I styled a three quarter length button up tunic in summer stripes (fall style with a summer print), navy chino shorts in navy (summer shorts in a fall-ish color), swapped out my sandals for tassel loafers, and kept my summer straw tote and rattan headband – it is summer after all.

For Those Team Summer

> Do keep styling your straw tote and tortoise shell sunglasses.

> Add a rattan headband or straw hat – rattan and straw are both must have styles of summer and are perfectly acceptable to style through Labor Day. 

> Keep wearing stripes! Stripes, especially blue and white ones, are the epitome of summer style.  Never stop wearing blue and white stripes.

> As long as it’s warm out, keep styling those shorts. I love to wear my shorts with a tee and layer with a beach sweater or cardigan.

For Those Team Fall

> Swap out sleeveless shirts for button up shirts.  You can roll the sleeves as the day continues to warm up. 

> My summer style is very casual and mom chic (I have to chase a toddler after all!).  To transition it slightly, I swap out my denim jean shorts for my chinos in dark navy.  

> Pair ballet flats or loafers with shorts and a three quarter length shirt.  

> Vice versa, you can style denim pants with sleeveless tops.

You can choose your color palette and accessories depending on your preference for summer or fall. Really though, the most important style tip to remember when you have two seasons colliding is to dress in layers.

Happy End of Summer and Happy Almost Fall!

Slainte,

Shannon 

SHOP THE LOOK:

Chino Shorts | Striped Button Up | Loafers | Rattan Headband | Straw Tote | Tortoise Shell Sunglasses

STYLE: CLASSIC POLO DRESS

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The classic polo.  The polo shirt is an American staple that has been made popular by brands such as Ralph Lauren, Kiel James Patrick, Vineyard Vines, Lacoste, and Abercrombie and Fitch. 

Even before attending Miami University, the college often referred to as the “Ivy League of the Midwest” or “J.Crew U,” polo shirts were a part of my wardrobe. Although I wore less and less of them during my “fashion years,” they have re-emerged in my wardrobe in my “classic style” years.

Over the years I have found there is no wrong way to wear a polo. You can wear it all buttoned with the collar down, half buttoned with the collar down, half buttoned with the collar popped, or not buttoned with the collar down or popped. Honestly, the styles are endless. Pair a polo shirt with chino shorts, denim shorts, skinny denim pants, skinny black pants, a denim skirt, boyfriend chinos – the options are endless.

Perhaps my new favorite way to wear a polo is in dress form. The polo dress has quickly become one of my favorite styles of dresses to wear in the summer. It’s seriously SO EASY. You throw it on in the morning and you are instantly put together for the day. I love wearing these to work (when we actually go to work) because they are professional, yet casual. The polo dresses from Kiel James Patrick are my favorite for their fit and quality. These particular polo dresses are soft, lightweight, and have the perfect amount of stretch. I have it in navy and white and I plan on adding a new color to my collection each season.

If I’m opting for a dressier look with the polo dress, I opt for classic pearls, a straw tote, a chic headband, and my Jack Roger sandals. I throw a cardigan over my shoulders for the iconic preppy look (and to use if the evenings get too cool). If I’m looking for a more casual, everyday look, I opt for minimal jewels, classic sneakers, and a baseball hat. However you choose to style a polo dress, you will always come out looking classic,stylish, and put together.

You can shop this entire look by clicking on the links below!

Slainte,

Shannon 

SHOP THE LOOK

KJP Jamestown Sailor Polo Dress | Jack Rogers | KJP Sailor’s Luck Bracelet | KJP Navy Wavy Bracelet | KJP Tahiti Sail Bracelet | KJP Pearls | Draper James Straw Tote 

MOTHERHOOD: STRAWBERRY FIELDS FOREVER

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Strawberry picking! An activity the Solt family had never done before and I’m still not sure who had the most fun! We are still sticking pretty close to home and when we do take L out, we only go to outdoor spaces with plenty of room, strict social distancing, and mask wearing standards. A local farm where I typically buy pumpkins and mums in the fall offers you pick strawberries for two weeks in June. I did my research to make sure this farm was taking the proper precautions that are mandated by the Ohio Department of Health and feeling comfortable, we decided to try it out.

Stevens Farm in Monclova is the perfect setting for a morning out with the family. There is a cute little farmhouse at the front of the property with an old log cabin and small barn with horses and goats you can feed and pet. They have a greenhouse with fresh herbs and flowers and just across the way a small pond with a dock and canoes. Just past the pond is an orchard with peach and pear trees. Lilly loved running through the rows of trees! And just then just beyond the orchard are fields and fields of strawberries.

We arrived soon after the you pick opened and I’m so glad we did! Within 45 minutes they were almost sold out of spots – aka rows. All of the employees were wearing masks, they were sanitizing berry carts, and every family had their own row and they alternated rows so that people were spread out comfortably. We felt exceptionally comfortable.

We spent about a half hour picking strawberries and filled up two pints. These were literally the most delicious strawberries I’ve ever tasted! So fresh and so sweet. I think Lilly enjoyed squishing them between her hands more than she enjoyed eating them though.

We ate a fair amount throughout the day after we got home and washed them. But I also ended up making a strawberry cobbler that was so yummy and refreshing. You can find the recipe for that here.

It was a beautiful summer morning and I’m so glad we ventured out for these happy family memories!

Slainte,

Shannon

STYLE: SUMMER CARDIGAN, THREE WAYS

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Even in the thick of summer heat, I keep a lightweight open front cardigan or sweater nearby.  I love wearing dresses in the summer, but sometimes I get a wee bit chilly in the house and a long cardigan (with pockets!) to throw over my summer ensemble works perfectly.  

This particular cardigan from Nordstrom is the prettiest shade of grey and pairs well with 90% of my wardrobe.  It’s lightweight, has pockets, and is long enough to cover my bum (a must post baby).  I love layering this cardigan with a button up and skinny pants in the winter.  Below, I’m teaming up with my fellow mama, Stephanie from Linens and Littles, to style this sweater three different ways for summer! 

OVER A SHORT DRESS

Whether it’s a t-shirt dress, strapless dress, spaghetti strap dress, or even romper, this grey cardigan is perfect for layering. The length hits perfectly just below the dress (because I’m petite, my dresses always hit me two inches or more above the knee, otherwise I get swallowed by the dress). I paired the cardigan over a flirty, floral, skinny strap dress with a high bun – the perfect ensemble for a super hot, summer day.

OVER A MAXI DRESS

I love a great fitting maxi dress.  You can dress them up or down depending on your mood and they are just so comfy.  If you are looking for instant elegance, a maxi dress should be your go-to.  A long cardigan works great over a maxi dress.  If you are short like me, a long cardigan over a maxi dress will elongate your frame, making you appear taller, and that’s a win for me!

OVER DENIM SHORTS

Because I’m always on the go and always chasing a very quick toddler, I tend to wear denim shorts (jean and white) with a t-shirt or v-neck cami top. I need to be able to move quickly, which means I cannot be fussing over my outfit. Adding this long grey cardigan to any of my “mom uniform” looks is a perfect, quick addition.

Hopefully you have some new ideas on how to style a long cardigan in the summer! I’ve rounded up a few current favorites below. For more ideas, head to Stephanie’s blog, Linens and Littles!

Cardigan 1

Cardigan 2

Cardigan 3

Slainte,
Shannon

STYLE: STYLING HEADBANDS WITH S.LYNCH KNITWEAR

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One of my absolute favorite brands, S.Lynch Knitwear, is launching limited edition headbands this coming Friday (6/19) at 7:00 p.m. and I could not be more excited!  Samantha, the creative behind S.Lynch Knitwear, makes the most beautiful knitwear and her hand sewn headbands are equally gorgeous.  Sam is so insanely talented – knitter, sewer, designer, photographer – the girl is multi-talented and has skills. 

I’m so thrilled to be styling her brand, spanking new, coastal inspired headbands.  You better believe I’ll be wearing these on repeat because they are so cute and so comfy.  Below I’m sharing three ways that you can style these beauties. 

With Your Hair Down

Lately (especially with my hair highlights continuing to fade) I’ve been wearing headbands almost on the daily. Wearing a headband with your hair down is so classic and preppy (think Blair Waldorf from Gossip Girl). They are just so easy to style. I love styling them slightly forward on my head and under my hair to create a bit of a 1960’s puff in the back.

With a Braid

Since I haven’t had a haircut in four months now, my hair is long enough to wear in a braid! I love doing a messy side braid and adding a headband for a little extra glamour. I paired this look with a t-shirt dress, but it’s equally cute with a one shoulder swimsuit, strapless dress, or sleeveless top and shorts.

With a Ponytail

This is the perfect summer look. A low or high pony, or even high bun, paired with one of these wide headbands is so easy and chic for a hot summer day down by the water. I styled mine with a bit of a puff at the top for a more retro look.

Set your alarms for Friday (6/19) at 7:00 p.m. when S.Lynch Knitwear will be releasing summer headbands in this fun print, along with a few others. There are limited quantities of each print so be sure to purchase yours ASAP! And be sure to follow Sam on Instagram: @slynchknitwear for knitwear and headbands and @_samanthalynch for the most gorgeous New England inspired photos.

Slainte,

Shannon 

STYLE: THE EVERYDAY SHIFT DRESS

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A pool day.  A walk down by the river.  A day spent at the beach.  It doesn’t matter where I’m enjoying summer, what matters is that I’m keeping my skin safe and protected from the sun.  

One of the easiest ways to keep your skin safe is by seeking out clothing that has UPF protection built in. Cabana Life offers stylish clothing with UPF 50+, blocking 98% of UVA and UVB rays. All of the fabrics selected for Cabana Life products are rigorously tested using standards established by the American Association of Textile Chemist and Colorists. This is definitely a mission and brand I can get behind and feel good about supporting.

Not only are the fabrics safe, but they are also of the highest quality. The fabrics are made for getting wet, so they are quick drying, lightweight, cool, and breathable. And, besides the fact that the fabrics are extra luxurious, the styles and prints are also so classic, preppy, and bright.

From everyday to vacay, the sleeveless shift dresses will be the best new addition to your wardrobe. I love throwing the lush terry, striped sleeveless tunic on over my bathing suit. It’s comfortable, easy, and the perfect amount of coverage. I can easily swing by and run into the grocery store to grab some wine on my way to the pool and not feel uncomfortable wearing my swimwear in public.

I also love the sleeveless shift dress, which features UPF 50+ protection, is lightweight, AND has pockets. This dress is so versatile! It can easily be styled for an everyday look, or even dressed up for work. Plus, it’s perfect for vacation and you can totally transition from wearing it at the pool to dinner and drinks, followed by a walk near the water.

In addition to staying safe in the sun with Cabana Life, be sure to apply sunscreen every two hours, seek out shade and find a stylish wide brimmed hat to lounge around the pool in.

I am so excited to partner with Cabana Life to give you 20% off your entire order with code SHANNONSOLT20. Click here to start shopping!

Slainte,

Shannon

The items in this blog post were gifted by Cabana Life but all opinions are my own. 

STYLE: CURATING A SUMMER WARDROBE COLLECTION

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Summer.  My favorite season.  Full of long, slow days spent at the pool, fresh vegetables from the Farmer’s Market, refreshing white wine, easy-breezy dresses, and a general sense of warmth and happiness.  I love summer.  But I also love my summer wardrobe.  

I’ve spent the last couple of years curating a summer wardrobe that is timeless and classic.  I rarely need to buy summer clothes because the items I choose are good quality and never go out of style.  (Don’t get me wrong though, I still shop for summer clothes every year because I love shopping). 

My motto for summer dressing is easy and effortless. The goal is to look and feel great while being able to run and play. The last thing I want while strolling through the local Farmer’s Market or chasing Lilly at a park are clothes that are clingy, uncomfortable, and hot. I always opt for pieces that are basic and classic, because really, who wants to be fussing with their clothing when it’s 90 degrees out?!

Flowy dresses, denim shorts, boyfriend tees, sleeveless button ups, and boat shoes (or Jack Roger sandals) are just a few of my favorite things to wear in the summer. I’m a huge sucker for J.Crew Factory when shopping for these basics, but I also enjoy shopping for summer pieces at Banana Republic, Loft, Target, and local boutiques. My summer wardrobe is definitely casual, but if we are going on date night or I’m getting dressed for work, I throw in some fun accessories or espadrille wedges to dressen up the look.

Below are basic pieces that are must haves in my summer wardrobe. 

Denim Shorts: I love my high-waisted denim shorts.  I have them in blue and white denim and they are just the perfect short every day summer living. 

Sleeveless Button Up: A perfectly flowy sleeveless button up is chic and stylish while keeping you cool. It can instantly dressen up any look.

Boyfriend Tees:  I probably have way too many of these, but honestly a boyfriend tee in a solid color or in stripes is so versatile, easy, and perfect paired with denim shorts, chinos, or linen pants.

T-shirt Dress: My favorite go-to outfit for summer.  Easy, classic, and the perfect ensemble for hanging around the house, drinks on the patio, or even adding a chunky necklace to make it work appropriate. 

Linen Pants: Everyone should own linen pants. I love to wear these to work during the summer and pair them with a striped tee or sleeveless button up. I have them in pink, navy, and khaki!

Jack Roger’s Sandals: My favorite sandals.  They are the perfect amount of dressy and casual and look great with everything from dresses to shorts to linen pants. 

Boat Shoes: Any All-American lady needs a pair of boat shoes.  They are comfy, easy to slip on, and look so cute with denim shorts and a striped tee. 

I also love chino shorts, a good maxi dress, a rattan bag, sunnies, and my Kiel James Patrick nautical bracelets.  For more classic styles, check out two of my favorite bloggers and their summer picks: Sarah (Cozy Little Joy) and Stephanie’s (Linens & Littles). 

Slainte,

Shannon