My mom leaves town today – while I’m sad she’s headed home, my heart is FULL after spending all weekend with her! But gotta get back to business, and this week is a little bit different. In case you missed the announcement on InstaStories, Liza is starting full time this week! Since I decided to stay in Dallas, I figured it was time to make her an official full-time employee. While I’ve been running my own business for years now, there’s something about paying someone’s annual salary that feels SUPER official and grown up. Needless to say I am thrilled Liza is staying part of the team – she’s been such a great right hand over the last year and I can’t wait to see where her additional help will take The Style Scribe.
Since I’ve got a little more financial responsibility on my plate going forward, I’m incredibly grateful for amazing brand partners like Ann Taylor! Last month I shared some of my favorite spring/summer finds, most of which was festive and colorful for the season. This month, I thought I’d share some of my favorite neutral finds for summer! While Ann Taylor is definitely a destination for sophisticated office-appropriate apparel, I love their more casual, chic styles for working from home and everyday wear. Whether you’re in college, work in a corporate office, work for yourself, or are a stay-at-home mom, Ann Taylor has something for everyone!
Scroll down to discover my must-haves from Ann Taylor’s summer collection (including reviews & sizing notes), and additional style picks at the bottom of the page!
First up we have this pleated top and tortoiseshell detail skirt. The top is actually supposed to be a square neck fit, but I decided to get a little creative and style it off the shoulder! With these heels, the off-shoulder styling looks a bit more fun for dinner or a night out. Good to know the top can be worn more than one way! I’m wearing a small and it fits perfectly.
The skirt is such a cute day-to-night style! For daytime, pair it with a simple tank or tee and sneakers or flat sandals. The fabric is lightweight but not at all see-through (it’s lined!), ideal for hot Texas summers. The tortoiseshell belt and buttons add something extra, don’t you think? A gorgeous combo against white. I’m wearing a size 6 here! Finally, these black block heels are a summer essential! They’re sturdy, comfortable and classic. I took my normal size!
It’s no secret I love a midi dress! They’re so versatile, are great for day-to-night wear, and are ideal for travel. This puff-sleeved look is a style I can wear spring, summer and into fall with all kinds of accessories! Per usual, the belted waist is a major selling point for me – cinched and flattering. The fabric is a little heavier (in a good way – feels very high quality), and the slits on either side add a breezy touch. This dress also comes in yellow if you prefer a warmer color! I’m wearing a small here. The shoes you see here are these black gladiator sandals, featuring silver studs! I took my normal size. Scroll down for a close-up!
While it’s certainly not cool outside in Dallas anymore, I love sweaters like this poncho I can drape over my shoulders at my desk! It’s a much more stylish look than wrapping myself up in a blanket like a burrito, wouldn’t you say? This poncho sweater is SO soft and in two of my fave neutrals: beige and white. Perfect for pairing with tees and tanks over jeans, and a great style for future travel! This pretty piece is under $100 and one size fits most!
I’m not a big shorts gal, mostly because I’m self-conscious about my saddle bag/booty area. I’ll really only spend my money on shorts that are long enough to conceal that area, but not so long they look overly modest. This pinstripe pair is a great example of the perfect length and fit! They are super roomy in the thigh area and I love the high paperbag waist for a flattering cinched look. I also love the large pockets – perfect for storing my iPhone on walks with Reeses! I’m wearing a size 6 here! For reference on length, I’m 5’9.
Also, if you’re in the market for a linen tee for summer (one of my go-to styles!), this one is a high-quality piece for less. I’d suggest getting it in both black and white! I’m wearing a size small here. I’m also wearing these gladiator sandals again in this outfit! Comfortable and look so expensive in person.
shop more chic ann taylor styles below!
{ thanks to Ann Taylor for sponsoring this post! }