As I continue to learn more about my personal style- with classic, comfy, and charm at the core- I’ve started to notice a rhythm in both how I shop and how I get dressed.
With a background in corporate merchandising, I naturally think of my closet as a living assortment- one that’s always evolving around one very specific customer: me.
Over the past year, I’ve run a couple experiments- tracking what I wore each month and studying the categories that make up my wardrobe. That process helped me get clear on:
What my personal style filters are
What I like to wear, when, and why
What gaps exist in my closet
And now, I’m starting to understand my seasonal rhythm of buying and outfitting.
Key basics to stock-up and invest in
Go-to outfit formulas I can rely on for the day-to-day
Special occasion items for events, vacations or elevated days
Special finds (vintage, secondhand, or new) that add charm, texture, and surprise—be that’s a pop of color, a fresh silhouette, or a print that makes me feel more me
There’s always going to be a running wish list, but approaching my closet this way has made each purchase feel more intentional and meaningful. I’m living into a vision for what my wardrobe is becoming and appreciating what I already have.
This is what makes my closet feel fun—something I get to play in every day.
It’s taken me a while to get here, but I finally feel like I understand my authentic needs when it comes to style. For me, it’s not about reinventing yourself constantly all the time- it’s about deepening into, owning and expressing who you already are.
Here are 5 summer outfit formulas I’ve been repeating—especially through the lens of a San Francisco summer. Think: layers, texture, and pieces that can handle a breeze. And I never underestimate the power of accessories. Chunky necklaces, colorful shoes, sporty sandals—they’ve been the shining star.
Maxi Dresses & Oversized Cardigans
This cable knit cardigan was my first Jenni Kayne investment (size down!), and even though it’s a wool blend, I love cozying up in it over maxi dresses. It adds texture and richness to any dress. I also love pairing the simple grey or cream one with a mini dress—it works every time.
The printed maxi above has green in it, and while I wish I had a green striped pair of Adidas, my current pair still works (and they’re back in stock too!).
Breezy Tanks & Lightweight Chinos
Summer is the time to lean into casual, earthy vibes—something I’ve been doing more of as I get older. I used to wear more flowy tops and chinos back in the day, and I’ve recently resurrected that combo.
Both the tank and pants I’m wearing are sold out, but honestly, that’s the point: buy things when you love them. I’m not here to sell—I’m here to style. :)
When you’re choosing tops and tanks, it helps to slow down and think about what bottoms you’ll wear with them (linen pants, denim shorts, chinos, jeans—and which wash). That tiny detail makes a world of difference in feeling confident about pushing purchase on something.
Fashion Tanks & Wide Leg Denim
Earlier this year, I tossed a light wash pair of Levi’s that were way too tight and finally invested in a wide-leg version. They’re still on sale too! If you’re going to wear light wash denim in summer, I say keep it loose and relaxed—and save the fitted cuts for medium or dark washes.
This embroidered tank is on sale and just makes me happy. I wore it at an amusement park in Europe and it now carries such special memories. I almost returned the white one because “how many white tanks do I need?” but I’m so glad I kept it—such a flattering fit with jeans or chinos.
Colorful Sweaters & Breezy Bottoms
Cheerful sweaters get us through foggy SF summers. This J.Crew style is a favorite (I also have it in black) because the texture and drapey hem make it work beautifully with breezy bottoms—not just linen pants, but skirts too. I’ve also loved wearing it with printed bottoms like stripes or florals.
In general I’m noticing that I lean toward blue a lot, and I’d love to bring more green into my wardrobe. Working on that.
Linen Pants & Button Down Tops
This year, I stocked up on linen pants. My absolute favorite pair is the elastic-waist style from J.Crew—they fit beautifully (especially for petites) and feel so luxe. The lighter colors even have a lining, which makes them feel extra elevated. I also love this striped pair, and a pleated version I picked up last year that has a more polished vibe.
The denim top I’ve been styling with them is sadly sold out, but I have a feeling it’ll be restocked for fall. It’s such a great in-between layer—somewhere between a poplin top and a jacket—one of those pieces that just works in a lot of ways.
Style really is one of life’s greatest pleasures to share—and I’m so glad you’re here for it!
I'd love to learn more about how you did your research... I am at the same beginning place you were, and I want to know my style so much!