Summer Is Here

by Emily Moody
Find life within the simple pleasures of wild, green grass, massively graceful oaks and the glistening Jacksonville sun. Find beauty in that split second that catches your eye. Light shines in us all. Soak up the essence of the season with romantic colors, flowing dresses and a happy heart.
Pretty in Pastel
While you might still be hanging on to your neon love, why not work some softer more subtle color into your wardrobe? Subdue a wild color palette with the calming tones of mint green, sky blue or baby pink. These colors are easy on the eyes and add a hint of a ultra-femininity to any wardrobe.
Check Your Head Why not take a little inspiration from one of fashion’s favorite icons, Audrey Hepburn? Add a hat or two to your wardrobe repertoire. Now is the perfect time for a wide-brimmed bonnet to not only add some pizazz to a ho-hum ensemble, but also to aid in blocking the harmful summer rays.
Silky Smooth
Silks are natural and breathable, which make them a perfect fabric for hot summer days. Don’t be fooled by polyester impersonators; opt for pure silk that will keep you cool even in the longest days of summer. A jaw-dropping maxi dress from Gypsy 05 will have you looking stunning in the summer heat. These dresses are American-made and hand-dyed by one of Los Angeles’ premier dye houses; well worth the investment.
Viva la Vintage
Vintage can be in anyone’s budget. Scour your favorite thrift stores for interesting accessories that can pop your look. Vintage clutches always make a nice addition to a look and are always priced right. A fun metallic bag or even an 80’s basket weave clutch with a tassel, like the one we used in our story, can be picked up for only a few dollars! Don’t forget to browse the jewelry cases before you leave. Great pieces can be found. All you have to do is a little digging.
Tribal Tendencies
Like a true warrior, this trend is still battling for its place in the fashion world. This season summon your inner warrior with a frock in a Navajoian Chinle or Ganado pattern, or by wearing a headband unconventionally. Wrap it across your forehead and tie it over your hair (instead of under) in the back to create Native inspired headwear.
Discover Your City: Mom’s Park
The photos were shot on location at Yacht Basin Park, also known as Mom’s Park, which is named after former Mayor Ed Austin’s wife. She enjoyed strolls through this breathtaking sliver in Riverside/Avondale. Located along St. Johns Avenue, on the west bank of Willowbranch Creek as it enters the St. Johns River, this park is the perfect spot to feel as though you are escaping from it all. Get lost in the limbs of the ancient oak that dominates the property. Enjoy a romantic kiss along the bank of the St. Johns. Picnic under the dripping Spanish moss that dances in the branches above. Find peace among the gardens that are tended to by volunteer green thumbs. If you have never experienced the serenity of this park, add it to your summer to-do list!