Dear Ether,

So, I had so much fun putting together my dream outfit from Net-a-Porter.com last week (http://www.oneof365.com/category/net-a-porter/ ) that I thought I’d have a bit more fiddling around doing some online shopping without plunking down a single cent of my own money.  Now THAT’s what I call recession savvy spending.  A lot of stores are having sales, but there is still plenty of summer-time soirees left.  It’s great to see the “cool weather” collections, but I still need to look “hot” when it’s, well “hot!” For example, I have this outdoor brunch that I’m going to need to wear something light and airy for.  Also coming up just around the corner I have an afternoon bridal shower that I’m on the desperate prowl for a cute white dress (she requested we all wear this virginal hue…don’t ask).   With August and September still upon us, there will be pool parties, elegant dinner events, fun BBQ’s and plenty of invites that you’ll need a lightweight get-up for.  

This time around I chose J. Crew.com.  It’s an “all-American” label that’s been a staple of the States since I was in high-school and you can’t really go wrong with their girly choices.  And let’s face it, what can be more “girly” than a garden party (okay, you’re  right, a baby shower is probably right up there).  Here’s a bit of history for those of you who don’t know about J.Crew.   Launched in 1983 by catalog only, the business expanded with their very first store opening in 1989 in NYC.  Now, they have over 206 retail shops across the country and J.Crew.com blossomed in 1996 which meant that everyone could mix and match a bit of this “Gossip Girl” style and grab a classic sweater-set or don one of their adorable dresses with a click of a button.  J.Crew epitomizes classic with a bit of edge—-perfect for “garden-party chic.”  My goal is always to stick with the same website for my clothing choices—–therefore, no deviating from J.Crew.com.  Again, I must remind you, I have NO affiliation with their label or brand and am NOT trying to hock their clothes.  I’m just having a bit of fun without spending a dime!

So, with a bit of a history lesson now covered, I’ll explain my “garden party chic” garb.  I’ve decided to go a little cutsie with this look.  I think I’m conjuring Reese Witherspoon in one of her Southern movies where she’s moved to the “big city” but is still a belle inside. The outfit is sleek, but also sweet.  Dainty, with a little bit of dare.  And the pieces all go together in a really fun way making them match without looking like you tried too hard.  I love the bright colors, but also the toned down toasts and taupe’s that keep the citrus shades from splashing too much craziness all over the place.  The floral theme is fun, but the main dress is pattern-free allowing these pretty petals to blossom without being overkill.

With that, here’s to ladies who do lunch, cucumber sandwiches, champagne on ice, names written in calligraphy and a lovely aroma of gardenias and jasmine in the air!!

Whistle-Me-Dixie! This is one sexy number on its own. So if you wanted to wear it out on a Saturday night, this strapless number has that versatility too. But, for this entry we're gonna make it "garden-licious." Unusual hue (picture it with black tights in a cooler season with a chunky black necklace and bangles!) But for now, imagine yourself wearing it standing next to a shaded camelia bush and complimenting the buds with its lovely color. Cotton Cady Erica Dress in "Light Chartreuse" on sale from $225 to $99.99 J.Crew.com

Just in case you get a table under a willow tree, or the garden party goes from day to night, this cute little top has just the right fabric combo to keep you cozy. The ruffle adds a bit of texture that goes along with some of the other textures in the chosen outfit, and the shade (perfectly named "Bright Tulip") matches the shoes you're about to see to a "T." Yes, it is VERY "girly" but c'mon, be a lady just for the day, okay? Sheesh! Cotton Cashmere Ruffle Cardigan in "Bright Tulip" $68 J.Crew.com

Take a "peep" at these lovely shoes that tie together the colors of the outfit beautifully but also introduce the floral theme of the garden party elegantly and subtly. The heel height isn't too dressy and won't poke through into the grass (a major faux pas at any grassy "do"!). I also love that the bow is made of straw which is a natural fiber---see where I'm heading--natural--nature--garden--party. Go with this, okay? Lyla Silk Printed Peep Toes With Straw Bow, on sale from $250 to $179.99 J.Crew.com

And to top it all off, a lovely straw colored headband that matches the color of the tie on your heels and the floral theme of your outfit. Again, great for adding texture and a bit of whimsy, this silk band will look great with hair pulled back in a loose ponytail or sitting amongst waves of lustrous locks. Taffeta Flower Headband $22.50 J.Crew.com

Finally, these beautiful rings, sold separately, should be worn stacked to combine a fruity color combination that will elongate fingers. Great way to draw attention to a fab manicure and the crystals add a sparkle that'll catch the attention of anyone who isn't already looking at you Estate Stackable Enamel 10kt Ring $250 each J.Crew.com