Wednesday was the official start of summer, and with it comes an entire social calendar full of outdoor parties and reasons to give your warm-weather wardrobe a chance to shine. The recent Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic in Jersey City, N.J., got a jump on the season as celebrity attendees cheered on the match in attire that ranged from summery flowing dresses to sleek shorts.
Designer and stylist Rachel Zoe walked the polo grounds in a maxi and black floppy hat, actress Minka Kelly chose a simple white lace dress and actress Zoe Saldana stood out in a plain black T-shirt and black leather shorts.
Emerging among the best-dressed of the celeb bunch was model Alek Wek, in a cream-colored, cap-sleeve dress by Shoshanna and strappy heels. Her floppy straw hat was a functional, stylish accessory, and a black leather bracelet toughened up the girly look just a tad.
With its flattering silhouette and light color, a dress like Wek’s would be an ideal piece for a dressy summer party — even one that doesn’t involve polo. Look for something with romantic details, such as lace or subtle embroidery, for a similar effect. If you have less than $100 to spend, try the Guipure lace dress from Zara.com for $89.90 or Ladylike lace dress by Pim + Larkin from Piperlime.com for $79.
Fun under the sun requires a versatile hat. The Magid straw floppy hat from Loehmann’s for $21.99 is an inexpensive way to keep covered. For a pair of strappy sandals to wear with any dress or white linen pants, get the Chinese Laundry Women’s Willy dress sandal from Endless.com for $59.93.
Wek went minimal with the accessories, forgoing a necklace and earrings for a simple black cuff. For a similar piece, get the Linea Pelle double-wrap harness cuff for $50. It will become a staple, as easy to wear with a dress as it is with a T-shirt and jeans.
