Loosen Up My Buttons

Wearing: The Line by K Gaby II Dress + Ferragamo Soft Hug Shoulder Bag, Dark Wine + Havaiana Slim Square-Toe Flip-Flops

The heat remains unrelenting, so the more uncomplicated, the better. A true sophisticate or fabric purist would preach about the importance of natural fibers during such a hot spell—and while I understand the benefits of wearing silk, linen, and 100% cotton, I firmly believe that these are textiles for air-conditioned activities or very brief, very shaded outdoor affairs. It’s not that I’m pro-polyester; I simply have no choice but to be practical. Moisture-wicking properties must be present, should you deign to do the human thing by sweating. Jersey, at least, is forgiving. Pick a ribbed knit in white or black, and you just might fool people into thinking you’re too perfect for perspiration.

So—The Line by K to the rescue again. After ten (!) years, I should retire my Gaby II tank dresses and replace each with one size up, but I’m stubborn and the firstborn child of immigrant parents. Why get rid of something when it’s perfectly fine? Aside from the buckling at the buttons (user issue, not a design fault; these once lay flat when I was smaller), I’m impressed by how resilient these dresses have been over the years. Fun with a sneaker, perfect with flip-flops, and a touch more dressed up with a little kitten heel. For daytime, I prefer a flat shoe; I just find it feels more approachable in contrast to the bodycon fit.

Admittedly, the bag is autumnal, but my bags know no boundaries when it comes to seasonality. The Ferragamo Hug, particularly this soft shoulder version, is severely underappreciated. Aesthetically, there are no notes—and if I had the budget, I’d want more in this silhouette. It’s the most practical of the collection:

• Roomy enough to fit daily essentials, including a book, agenda, iPad or Kindle, and a compact toiletries pouch (plus flats, if you’re a commuter!)
• Fits comfortably over the shoulder and includes a strap, should you prefer a more casual, hands-free look
• And—the most important selling point!—features a flap with a very strong magnetic closure to safeguard the contents of your bag

I love The Row Margaux 15 as much as anyone else, but because I own two (both of which I’ve had for years before the craze and rather insane price increases), I feel fully justified in recommending the Ferragamo Hug instead. Of course, if you love the label (and lack of, frankly), invest in your Margaux. However, if it’s the silhouette or size you’re drawn to, the Hug shares similarities with more design elements and functionality.

Ferragamo Soft Hug, Dark Wine Eel + Guerlain Eau de Tulle Perfume + Stray: A Memoir by Stephanie Danler

The perfume is also deserving of more recognition, although it is much beloved in my household. It was a springtime release from Guerlain; the original Eau de Lingerie had been a longtime favorite, so when the publicist informed me that it would be reimagined with the launch of the Les Eaux collection, I was thrilled. I still adore the lingerie scent, but Eau de Tulle has been a fixation since April. It’s sugared heliotrope—like the essence of almond, more airy than nutty—and warm white musk, made breathy with neroli. What’s not to love?

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xx