In the Summer Essentials Edit I mentioned my loathe for shorts and my passion for dresses so I’m starting my 4th of July Picks Post with The Dress Edit. The next post will focus on shoes and the last is everything else (I did include two pairs of shorts there…so come back if your a shorts gal!)  #patience #waitforit

Fourth of July is one of my favorite holidays.  It is a guaranteed three day weekend allowing plenty of time for friends and family, bike rides and just plain relaxation. #sublime


Every year we head downtown for the Capital Fourth Concert on the steps of the U.S. Capital.  Every year we hope the weather cooperates and the rain abates.  #winsomelosesome  

Its a guaranteed good time had by all with a picnic on the lawn, little boys dancing to great music, and a lot of patriotism … all while surrounded by the lovely scenery of our Nation’s heritage.  And of course, fireworks at the end.  My five year old isn’t a big fan  – he doesn’t like loud noises – but we simply dig out his headphones and carry on.


This year we also have a boat party (with swimming) and a barbecue on the agenda.  

For all of these events you will find me in one of these dresses below.  All my events are casual so it will likely be one of the first two dresses but I did include a few dressier options in case you have something fancier in your schedule.

Casual Dress Edit Picks

Joie is one of my favorite designers and throw on dresses are kind of my thing. This dress also comes in a lovely Poppy color but for once I am actually partial to the Navy.  The cut makes it appear like two pieces but it’s really one.  Runs true to size.

Similar style but at a lower price point.  I have several dresses like this that I wear with sandals, sneakers or flip-flops depending on the activity.  This dress comes in sleeveless short (4 colors), sleeveless maxi (3 colors) or maxi with short sleeves (3 colors) and petite sizes are available.  This dress travels well and is so easy that it is probably my most worn summer piece.   My shoe of choice is usually converse or flip-flops with an occasional sandal if I need to go dressier.

Michael Stars Racerback Midi Dress (Regular & Petite)
Michael Stars T-Shirt Dress
The top dress is the one I’m wearing above (Nocturnal Color).  Michael Stars dresses are a little more expensive than typical jersey dresses but they LAST and the fabric is quality.  They come in lots of necklines, lengths and colors guaranteeing you will find one that works for you (that link takes you to 38 different styles)!!  The longer ones can be challenging for walking and sitting with the bodycon fit.  I sized up to a medium to give me more room to work with.  The side ruching allows you to make the dress as long or as short as needed.  #imaginethepossibilities

If you Need to Step it up a Notch (or two)

This Vince Camuto crepe number is just too fun.  If you want to take your BBQ look up a notch or have evening dinner or concert plans this is the perfect dress.  I would size down for this one. Also available in petite sizes.

Maggy London is always a go to for casual dresses.  I love that both the neckline and hemline are unique.  This flirty dress is perfect for concerts or social gatherings.  I would size down one size for this one too.

Another Maggy London dress.  I love the bi-directional stripes and the jacquard like print in a dress meant for summer.  The longer length means you can sit on a blanket at a winery (which is exactly where I would wear this) and not worry about showing more than you should. #perfect

The dressiest of the bunch … wearable for so many occasions long after the last firework explosion.  If you follow me on Instagram you know I love Rebecca Taylor dresses.  There is no exception for this dress.  Worth the investment for this silk beauty that you can wear all summer … including to the office.

Stop back tomorrow for shoes to wear with all these beauties … until then …. Happy Shopping!!