Spring and Summer collections are in full swing, and prices in the US are frequently discounted. There are lots of tops and bottoms, a good deal of dresses and knitwear, and some toppers too. Earth tones, frills, ruffles, and ditsy floral patterns have hung around longer than I expected. That said, there is plenty of colour, pattern and silhouette variety too. On that note, here are two top picks for the week.
1. Chaus Tops and Dresses
Chaus tops and dresses are worth a look because price points are relatively affordable, the fits pretty good, the colours and patterns varied, and the quality great. The tops are usually trendy classic, and the dresses modern classic. Most of the items are knitted and made of polyester, which might not be for you. It does make items easy to launder and crease-resistant. Some of my clients do well with Chaus items for a mix of these reasons.
I recently bought a boho-lite Chaus Tie Neck Smocked Blouse and love it. I don’t usually go for paisley patterns, yet fell in love with the colours. It’s a woven polyester that feels like silk. It has a soft knitted lining that is delicious against the skin. It’s nicely made, fits and drapes well, comfortable, pretty, and refined. It works well with my shocking pink denim jacket, skirt, sneakers, loafers and bag, orange utility pants, and blue and white jeans. It’s packed for my trip.
2. Montauk Twill Jacket
There are many, many utility and adventure jackets around in a shade of olive, tan and khaki. But few in colours like orange, pink and off-white. This one from Talbots is unique and gorgeous. Beautifully made, lightweight, 100% cotton, unlined, and machine washable. It’s fluidly structured, and a nice length. The pockets lie flat and are unobtrusive. It’s offered in straight, petite, plus and plus petite sizes. Fits are roomy, so size down if you prefer a narrower fit. I got one in orange, and found that the petite version was a better fit, even for my 5′ 6″ height. The sleeves are short on me, but I don’t mind that for a Summer jacket.
