mostess week

One Dress, Four Summer Parties

A weeklong series on the art of entertaining, for women who are too busy for Pinterest.

Summer Barbecue
Whether it’s a casual cookout with friends or an elaborate buffet-style barbecue dinner, you’ll want to wear something that comfortably accommodates sitting and eating. This MDS Stripes dress has tons of stretch, so you can go back for thirds. Pair it with block heels so you won’t sink into the grass.

Beach
Switch up your old T-shirt-and-denim-shorts routine with this bright-azure swimsuit, which is flattering on virtually every body type. Add some fun accessories like this crocheted neon Sophie Anderson tote and embellished sandals from Sam Edelman, and you’ll definitely stand out in the group Instagram photos.

MDS Stripes dress, $225 at Moda Operandi, Melissa Odabash swimsuit, $230 at Net-A-Porter, Sophie Anderson bag, $470 at Net-A-Porter, Sam Edelman sandals, $130 at Net-a-Porter

Picnic
Did we mention this dress doesn’t wrinkle easily? Throw it on with cool, chunky wedges (like these from Chloé), some cheap sunglasses, and a tote big enough to carry supplies, and then prepare to loll about on the grass all afternoon.

MDS Stripes dress, $225 at Moda Operandi, H&M sunglasses, $10 at H&M, La Ligne tote, $195 at Net-a-Porter, Chloé Wedges, $695 at Neiman Marcus 

Poolside
We all know pool parties don’t always entail getting in the water, but you have to dress the part anyway. Wear your hero dress with a two-piece like this one from Norma Kamali, which will sit comfortably under the dress should you decide to lounge the whole time. Add a pair of modern buckle slides and a striped bag to complete the look. 
 

MDS Stripes dress, $225 at Moda Operandi, Soeur tote, $110 at Barneys New York, Sol Sana sandals, $95 at Urban Outfitters, Norma Kamali swimsuit, $200 at Net-a-Porter