The (Nearly) End of Summer Outfit Roundup

aka how is it already September?

As the summer comes to an end (but not until September 22nd, bbs!), my FOMO begins to quiet down. Don’t get me wrong, I adore the feeling of the wind billowing through my clothes on the ferry ride to Rockaway Beach, having an excellent excuse to wear sheer dresses daily, and attending all of the Brooklyn block parties I can squeeze into my weekend, yet I simultaneously feel this immense pressure to do *everything, everywhere, all at once*. I’ve also noticed my relationship with time shifting this summer. The days themselves have been going by at a glacial pace, but the months, heck, time overall, has been moving at an ever-increasing rate. What’s the impetus for this feeling? Is it the 40+ hour work week at a survival job as I wait out (and fully support) the actors’ and writers’ strike? The escalating bombardment of fear mongering news or the pressures of social media? Is it just me getting older? Tbh, it’s probably a combo of all the aforementioned theories. Regardless, I’ve been determined to combat this, and one small way I feel like I’m able to have a semblance of control in this capitalist-time-sucking-warp is by incorporating the creative practice of getting dressed as often as possible.

As I’ve mentioned before, summer has notoriously been my least favorite season for conceiving new outfits. I take joy and find my expression through layering, so typically, every time summer rolls along, I get…well, sartorially stumped.

Compared to prior summers, this summer has been that girl—I’ve had a downright damn good time getting dressed. I previously had a huge gap in my closet when it came to summer pieces, so I spent the last year slowly and intentionally scouring sample sales and secondhand shops for dresses that have that special oomph, while also acquiring a few vintage bags. The result? I didn’t need to depend on layering to feel fully myself.

So, if I wore an outfit this summer, and no one documented it, did it even exist?

Of course it did. But I want it documented, and I’m trying to extricate myself from Instagram whenever possible, dang it! Here are 8 outfits I wore in this summer heat and how I’d wear them again:

What: Vintage corset dress from an IG sale, Collina Strada sneakers, Ukaome earrings, handmade necklace (by Jenna), necklace from a Randall’s Island vendor for Indigenous People’s Day, Spitfire Sunglasses, vintage watch from my Mama Bear

Where: Urban Indigenous Collective’s Community Space Opening

How I’d Rewear: I don’t think I’d necessarily change an element of this outfit. I’d just say maybeeee wearing a corset on a day that the real feel is 100 degrees isn’t the smartest choice I’ve ever made, but this natural cotton-linen was about as breathable as it was going to get fabric-wise.

What: Vintage 60s/70s chiffon nightgown from a friend, secondhand bag from Unearth Vintage, Camper Kobarah Sandals, vintage necklace via Screaming Mimis, Gold Barbed Wire Necklace from Etsy

Where: Brunch at Miss Ada’s followed by a Spike Lee event in Fort Greene Park

How I’d Rewear: Again, another very hot day. I wouldn’t necessarily recommend wearing a synthetic fabric in that kind of weather, but I liked this outfit —sweat be damned.

What: Red hat from my auntie, black polka dot top gifted by a friend from Awoke Vintage, tropical cotton shorts via L Train Vintage, loafers from G.H. Bass, necklace from Brinker and Eliza

Where: Walking around Bed Stuy

How I’d Rewear: I was running errands that day and needed the spaciousness of a tote, but next time, I’d swap it out for a smaller leather or fabric bag. Preferably in a color that appears in the floral print of the shorts.

What: Norma Kamali floral velvet-tulle sheer cover-up via The Outnet, Onia floral bikini via The Outnet, Camper Kobarah Sandals

Where: Mi casa for a house party hosted by my roommates

How I’d Rewear: Dare I say I have no notes on the rewear? There was an inflatable pool I was dipping in and out of in the backyard, so the outfit felt practical for a day-to-evening soiree.

What: Comme des Garçons black button-down purchased at THAT Dover Street Market sample sale, G*p metallic athletic shorts, red patent leather Mary Janes from Jeffrey Campbell many moons ago, Room Shop bow, Rains belt bag worn over the shoulder purchased via 260 Sample Sale

Where: Cat Power, Modest Mouse, and Pixies concert at Pier 17

How I’d Rewear: This was quite comfortable for the concert; the button down offered a hint of warmth since we were right on the water and the shoes I’ve had for years, so they’re very much broken in. If I were going somewhere else, I’d swap out the belt bag for a small metallic or textured purse.

What: Graphic t-shirt via Crossroads Trading Co., Levi’s denim cut-off shorts via L Train Vintage, vintage 70s leather woven handbag via Etsy, Camper Kobarah Sandals

Where: A quick run around the corner to a local market

How I’d Rewear: If I were going for a larger grocery run, I’d swap out the Camper sandals for the Collina Strada sneakers from the first look and the belt bag from the concert look (with some reusable totes for the goods, ofc).

What: Cloudbusting Kate Bush t-shirt from Feels So Good, Collina Strada Cabbage Dress, Viktor & Rolf x Melissa Platforms. Fallen chair is part of a performance art piece, okay?

Where: Rogue Music Festival at 3 Dollar Bill

How I’d Rewear: Another solidly comfortable outfit for a concert, so I don’t think I’d change any details. Plus, the heels gave me the extra height that I naturally lack—a win-win in feeling good sartorially speaking, and being able to actually see the performers on stage without visual obstructions. And by “visual obstructions”, I mean people of average height.

What: Vintage plaid corset dress from The Vintage Disciple via Etsy, Teva x Christian Cowan glitter gladiator sandals, vintage sunglasses via AuH2O Secondhand Shop

Where: We outside…for this photo! Hehe. Nick Hakim at Herbert Von King Park

How I’d Rewear: I’d maybe swap out the shoe for something a bit more masc. Possibly the G.H. Bass loafers or maybe even a low-rise sneaker. But, these toesies wanted their freedom while the weather still permits! Sorry for using the word “toesies”.

Well, dear readers, I hope you’ve found some warm weather ensemble inspiration from my ramblings. Let my existential spiral around the passage of time be your foraging field for outfit ideas!