The above was a tweet I posted during a freakishly warm day April 16th. Now that Memorial Day has unofficially ushered in the start of summer, guess what? I still hate all my spring clothes from last year.
I can start my day the perfect way — great yoga class, leisurely breakfast, no emergencies at work — and have all that go to hell in a handbasket as soon as the outfit hunt commences. Sure, I probably should be laying out ensembles the night before as every women’s magazines advises, but, come on, who actually does that? And how can I be expected to when my inventory is so uninspiring?
Julie Bensman: What are the top three pieces I should be buying for summer?
Wendy McNett:
- A flowy, asymmetric hemmed dress. It’s the standard summer dress with an edge.
- A stylish, comfortable wedge sandal. Wedges make an impact but are sturdier than heels. I love Miu Miu’s metallic-trimmed leather version.
- A small, bright cross body bag. Color will rev up any outfit, plus the small size makes it hands-free and lightweight — perfect for summer when you’re more active.
JB: What’s the best ensemble to wear to a concert? A wedding? A weekend at your boyfriend’s parents’ house?
WM: It depends which concert you’re going to! 1) Dress according to the music: A Coachella hippie chic outfit might be out of place at a Madonna concert 2) Dress for comfort: You want to be able to move around and dance.
Weddings are celebrations of romance…a cocktail dress with a romantic feel usually works best. Just don’t wear white!
For a weekend at your boyfriend’s parents’ house, you want to look put-together but avoid anything too sexy. Think crisp white jeans, a pretty blouse and flat sandals.
JB: Who are some up-and-coming designers I should have my eye on?
WM: Two of my favorites are Brood by Serkin Sarier and Jeffery Williams, who just won Bravo’s The Fashion Show.
JB: I love the way you dress — how would you describe your own sense of style?
WM: Fashion should always be fun! I like to mix designer pieces with more basic items, like a gold-trimmed linen Miu Miu bag with colored H&M shorts. Since I’m always on my feet when I’m working on shoots, I need to be comfortable, so I favor jeans and t-shirts by designers like Helmut Lang and Rag & Bone. If I’m going to a party at night, I’ll bust out a fancy party dress by Stella McCartney or Alexander Wang.
JB: What’s the last thing you googled?
WM: Hotels in Montauk…I’m trying to get out there for July 4th weekend!
