What's Your Summer Uniform?

Scene: Manayunk, Pennsylvania

What's your summer uniform? You're looking at ours. A light weight button-down, delicately knotted in the front; high-waisted shorts, a nod to the trend that American and European designers have adopted this season with fervor; and that one stand-out, statement sandal that would give Carrie Bradshaw some serious shoe-woo.

We've kept this look pretty simple, so that structurally, it's easy for you to replicate. We also had some fun with it by mixing prints and textures (à la complementing anchors with butterflies, or glitter with navy suede in the sandals) to add just enough dimension to keep things fresh.

We were excited to introduce the summer collection of printed shirts by Gibson & Birkbeck of Scotland to our store and e-shop this season, particularly given the warm reception the designer's fall/winter line received from you all last year! For this season, G&B looked to the beach and the garden for inspiration - with playful prints like the Butterfly (pictured in this shoot!), Apples & Pears (ONE SIZE LEFT), Starfish, Bumble Bee, Oystercatcher, Heron and Squirrel. We love how airy and lightweight the summer styles feel; all are sleeveless, made from 100% cotton poplin, and you can take your pick from styles that are with collar or without (so non-traditional, and yet we adore so very much!).

Give us any excuse to mix prints, and we'll take it! We paired the soft blues in the Butterfly shirt with the anchor printed Enrouler shorts in nautical blue. A simple knotting of the Butterfly shirt, showcases the high-waisted cut of the shorts and also accentuates the waistline. Although we're always in favor of the shirt tuck - knotting is the best way to avoid a boxy look when you're working with loosely fitted pants or shorts.

Jewelry was kept to a minimum, though we went for one knockout style - the Coral Branch Earrings in White from our own LILA Luxe Collection. The pair styled features precious Mediterranean coral branches accented with a single Swarovski crystal pave bead. Equally as striking, you can also shop these beauties in Red Coral. They definitely make it to the top of our summer accessories hot list.

For accessories, nothing makes more of a statement than gold. We've paired the versatile gold Illusion Clutch, handmade from rich Greek leather in Athens, with the Como Alto Glitter Block Heels, from LOLO the Ballerina of Belgium - the newest designer to grace our store and web shop! The Como Alto heels combine striking design - think gold glitter with navy suede Italian leather - with impeccable craftsmanship and comfort. While we've styled these beauties to elevate a day look, they are perfect for a fanciful evening out or special occasion. Consider pairing them with a form-fitting dress or A-line skirt. How would you style them?

We'd love to see how you style your LILA Fashion International wear. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram (@lilafashioninternational) for more fashion and styling inspo, plus use the hashtag #myLILAstyle for a chance to be featured! xo