It’s the middle of the year, and that means end-of-season sales. Brick-and-mortar stores look better than they have in years, and online shopping in the US is particularly good. It’s an opportunity to fill wardrobe holes, replenish as needed, shop for special occasions, or seasonally refresh with what tickles your fancy. There is lots on sale, or at least there will be over the next few weeks. So keep checking back if you want to score bargains.
1. All Sorts of Glorious Dresses
It’s been a great dress season. Lots of natural fibres, sustainable and ethical manufacturing practices, an assortment of silhouette and colour, plenty of solids and patterns, and at a range of price points. Here’s a collection of dresses that were winners on my clients and forum members, or have good reviews. I bought two this year, which I have yet to wear because of our appalling Spring and Summer weather. I hope Seattle weather improves so that I can finally wear them. Go Team Summer Dress!
2. White House Black Market Tops
WHBM is a hit with clients who enjoy wearing more structured or semi-structured tops, especially with V-necks. Their casual tees look a little dressier and less basic than the norm. Many of the tops work particularly well with skirts. Most of them are knitted, but there are woven options too.
3. Laces
Our Yorkie Jo destroyed the laces on one of my pairs of sneakers, so I replaced them with the first pair here in white. They are great, and come in five lengths and a few solid neutrals so take your pick. If you’re interested in making your sneakers or oxfords easy to slip in and out of, try these elastic laces that come in a slew of colours. You cut them to the desired length, and secure the metallic tip on your own. The video shows you how to do that quite easily.
4. Aritizia Effortless Cropped Pants
Try these if you’re looking for a pair of soft and swooshy, but structured, dressy pants. They are wide, cropped and do not taper at the hem as some of the stock photos suggest. They come in short, regular and tall lengths, and an assortment of colours. The rise is not too long and the pocket linings do not grin through. They are available in full length too. They work well on both a straighter and curvier body type.
5. Bzees Footwear
The brand does soft, lightweight, and supportive footwear with spongy footbeds that make for an extremely comfortable shoe. Great for walking, and a great option for those with plantar fasciitis. The solid wedge soles add a little height. Many of the styles can be washed in the washing machine.
6. Banana Republic Tops
These tops have been great on clients and forum members, and some come in petites. The woven blouses are very breezy, and the knitted tops are fluid. The tank tops are fitted and great worn on their own, or as layering tops. The linen tees are soft and not scratchy.
