There’s no better time than summer for a colorful dress…or two. I actually bought this one last year for a shoot but just wasn’t feeling like celebrating anything other than remaining COVID-free. This summer, despite the Delta variant, it’s starting to feel like we’re finding our way to a happier, healthier, more hopeful place. And what really feels truer than ever is that by wearing brighter colors you just might project an energy and warmth into the world that gets reflected back to you.

The isolation and disconnection of the past year have made for many a dark day. Colors can bring comfort, boost your confidence. Studies suggest that yellow, pink and red can have an uplifting effect on our mood. So let’s dress ourselves happy, one feelgood outfit at a time. And the easiest, all-on-one summer outfit is a colorful dress. Just add sandals, a bag and a piece of jewelry or two, and it’s “hello, new world.”

Dress: (old, Halogen x Atlantic Pacific) Some summer 2021 options I’m loving: this floral-print silk wrap dress, this multicolored square neck midi (only $22!), this smocked ruffle midi (in going bananas!), this pretty ruffled short-sleeve dress (under $40), the stunning Tiska Dress from Shoshanna, this super cute swing shift from Lilly Pulitzer, this flowy cotton silhouette produced using sustainable fibers or processes, and this silk twill ruffle-neck dress (on sale plus extra 30% off with code SALETIME).

Bag: (Brandon Blackwood End Systemic Racism limited edition collection, sold out). I discovered this black-owned designer brand as I researched ways to support the Black Lives Matter movement. To say this mini tote with its powerful message went viral is an understatement. If you’d like to learn more about Brandon Blackwood’s story and his amazing bags, check out this link. Shop the brand here. 

Sandals (Schutz, old) and Jewelry (old). Great multicolored sandal options here (I have these Tevas, and they’re so comfy and cute), here (snappy t-straps), here (chic kitten-heel slide) and here (espadrille-inspired wedge). Sparkly earring options here and here (under $20), colorful bracelets here (fruity stripes) and here (stretchy and stackable and under $5).

Photos by Kristin Moore-Gantz @artdirectthis. Mural by JAHRU.

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