Well Dressed

Michael Stars

French Connection

Rachel Pally

My favorite hot-weather style element is the dress. An outfit that, being all one piece, doesn't actually require any putting together in order to look put-together. Versatile, too - the ability to change a look based on which wrap, bag, or jewels one assembles on a particular day.

As the sales floors of brick and mortar retailers fill up with fall pieces, all across the web e-tailers still have plenty of summery dresses...deeply discounted, ripe for the picking.

Either buy now and pack them away for next year, or add tights, boots, and a cashmere for a fall look. Above,  links to some of my favorite finds - some of the most seasonless pieces I encountered.

Sunny Aspect

Who: Courteney, student at NYU.

What: Blue striped sundress, tan wedges, and a cheerful yellow flower.

Where: Astor Place.

New In Print

Who: Alexia, works in publishing.

What: Slouchy tee and voluminous bag provide proportional counterpoint to the slender silhouette of a leopard-print pant. Worn with a heeled, open-toed boot.

Where: Corner of Lafayette & Kenmare.

Top It Off

Who:  Rebecca, student (above left); Amparo, of Ciudad Real, Esp. (above right).

What: Jaunty fedoras. On Amparo, a neutral outfit gets a double shot of color via the pairing of bold orange hat and red bag.  Meanwhile, Rebecca adds polish to a shorts and tank outfit with a light straw. Also, see Lauren in recent post Hello, Sailor!  Present for several seasons, the look isn't about to hang up it's hat...many retailers have summer's straw versions on offer to make way for fall's lush velvet and wool options. Links below.

Where: Rebecca - East Village; Amparo -Union Square Park.

Contemporary Classic

Who: Mary Page - dancer.

What: Plaid, chambray, penny loafers. Three very of-the-moment components unite for a pretty, classic outfit. Links to similar pieces below.

Where: Union Square Park.

Madewell Plaid Shirt ModCloth Chambray Skirt Bass Penny Loafer