I love this time of year: summer Fridays, alfresco dinners and afternoons that linger long into the night. But between the humid temps and rising heat index, getting dressed anytime between June and August can feel downright impossible. After a few dozen trips around the sun, I’ve finally found a formula that works for me. My typical summer uniform consists of three key pieces: white sneakers, a denim jacket and a lightweight, comfortable dress (of which, you can never have too many). At the start of every season, I treat myself to one or two new wardrobe refreshers, and this year’s find did not disappoint.
Though I knew the Michael Stars Calliope maxi dress would be something special, it wasn’t until I donned it in a room full of well-dressed strangers that I realized its true potential. As the compliments rolled in, I could feel the nervous tension in my shoulders melt away. See, I’ve never considered myself to be a particularly fashionable person. If I had it my way, I’d choose leggings and a T-shirt over just about anything. But there’s something to be said about a dress that can give you an instant confidence boost when you need it most (especially when it's under $130 and just as comfortable as your favorite pair of pajamas).