To quote Lovin’ Spoonful (and date myself): ” Hot town, summer in the city.” And boy was it hot when we shot this post! So building a look around a cute pair of walking shorts was a no brainer. Even better when said shorts were yet another secondhand/consignment purchase.

At the moment, these shorts are out at the beach with me. Thanks to their tailored cut and sophisticated pattern, they are easy to dress up (as seen here) or down. I’m a firm believer that ageless style means you should wear whatever makes you look and feel great, so not-too-short shorts are what I look for. Anywhere from this mid-thigh length to longer Bermudas are my jam.

I love mixing similar color palettes with different patterns, so a classic navy-and-white striped tee was my “top” choice. A crisp white linen blazer added a polished note, and is a good antidote to intense air conditioning — which I was definitely dying for. Chunky gold jewelry, a whimsical wristlet and chambray espadrille sandals were the easy, effortless way to finish off my outfit.

What’s your “short story?” I’d love to hear it!

Jacket: (old, J. Crew) Similar here (on sale, also in navy and black) and here (on sale and under $100, also in Tall and Petite).

Shorts: (J. Mclaughlin @secondtimearound.consignment) Love this current style, in lots of prints and solids, and on super sale!

Tee: (old, J. Crew) Similar here (great price, lots of colors to choose from, in Tall and Petite too) and here (chic off-the-shoulder style).

Jewelry: (old, Eddie Borgo) More affordable options here and here.

Bag: (old, Kate Spade) This current on-sale option is super summery, super cute!

Espadrille: (J. Crew Factory, 30% off PLUS extra 60% off with code WOW60)

Photography by Kristin Moore-Gantz @artdirectthis. Hair by Michelle @ten23stylelounge.