Happy Sunday everyone, and to everyone who is stateside like me, happy Memorial Day weekend, which as everyone knows is the unofficial start to summer.

Even if you’re not one of those people who are lucky enough to get away from the city for the weekend, it still does feel like a vacation, and I couldn’t help notice when out yesterday on Long Island by the water, that everyone’s already dressed for it. One of my favorite summer pieces is the classic white dress, especially if it’s in eyelet or lacy in some way. And while I normally love LWDs as well as skirts in midi length, you also can’t argue with the casual elegance of full length or maxi dresses, which with their (typically) slightly drapey fit, are comfortable as well as chic.

Maxi dresses with bright, colorful patterns are also a lot of fun, but I’ve been painting so many elaborate patterns of one type or the next (leopard, stripes, polka dot) lately that I felt the need to do something different. Besides, I just love the contrast of a a sweet, looking, long white dress with tough girl jewelry like chunky rings and woven leather belts. And that’s another great thing about white dresses–you can dress them down or up however you want with just an accessory or two. Switch the belt and bracelet for for a bouquet and fascinator and you’re ready for an impromptu wedding!