Summer, A Love Letter

Although I may live in a city that is said to be without changing seasons, I still look forward to each of them throughout the year. Fall has the feeling of fresh starts and the cool breezes seem particularly restorative that time of year. Winter brings about the excitement of the holidays and unpacking all of my favorite outerwear and chunky knit sweaters. Spring is gorgeous with everything in bloom and the promise of warmer weather. But there is something about summer that is extra special and begs to be made memorable. Maybe it's the salty air blowing in from Santa Monica or the long meandering days filled with light until 9pm, but by the time Memorial Day rings her starting bell, I have a list a mile long of things I want to pack into the next three months.

For starters, there's wine night at Barnsdall Art Park and our annual trip to Palm Springs that go up on the calendar months in advance, usually accompanied by an overseas trip looming in the distance come July. Trips to Griffith Park and early evening hikes are always on the agenda this time of year, as are shopping and fish tacos in Malibu. To accompany all of these easy, breezy summer activities, my wardrobe usually takes a turn for easy, breezy street as well.

I love maxi dresses in the summer, especially in classic neutral colors that can be spiced up with bright accessories like this straw tote from Old Navy. This simple waistless style is very of the moment. While this particular laid-back look is perfect for a day shopping in Malibu or wine tasting at Barnsdall Art Park, a chunky heel, some gold jewelry, and a great clutch transform it into the perfect date night look.

This particular maxi dress is so easy on your wallet that you'll have plenty of leftover change for more summer adventures!

This post was sponsored by Old Navy. Check out Old Navy's latest fashion lineup in store or online at oldnavy.com.

Photography by Mary Costa