It’s been one week and we’re slowly adjusting to life with another member of the family (albeit with a little less sleep than normal). I’m looking forward to getting back to regular posts soon but in the mean time I’ve got my west coast bestie Nikki from My Style Diaries filling in. I seriously wish me and this gal lived closer and every time I see her beach front pics (and picture us hanging out, drinking wine, shopping and being judgy) I am tempted to pack up and move west. I gush on this gal on the regular so I’m hoping you’re already a fan of her effortless California cool style but if not, go add her to your daily reads now.

Hi guys! Nikki here from My Style Diaries, and I’m super excited to take over Lou What Wear for the day. I met Danielle last year at Lucky FABB and immediately knew that she was my fashion-loving, wine-drinking, sarcastic soul sister. And it was terrifying. Just kidding. (Sort of.) Anyways, while Danielle is bonding with her new baby nugget (and since she refuses to uproot her family, quit her job, move to Newport Beach and rename this blog Newp What Wear), I’m sharing a few of my favorite summer must-haves (and wardrobe workhorses) with you guys all the way from California. Hope you enjoy!

1. White Blouse
My rule of thumb: when you find a good white blouse, buy it. When you find a great white blouse, buy two. These lightweight tops will take you from spring to fall and every hot summer night in between, and they will go with SO many things in your closet. From jeans to summer shorts (and the occasional silver slacks?), you can’t go wrong with a well-cut white blouse. This one is from CAbi Clothing, but you can find great versions anywhere and at every price point.

2. Striped Blouse
A striped blouse may not seem like the most versatile basic, but in an easy black and white palette, it’s surprisingly easy to work it into so many different looks. Pair it with a similar striped piece, jeans and a fun blazer, or printed shorts for simple summertime outfits. I scooped up this one randomly from Forever 21, and if I could go back, I would probably pick up another. It came in handy (when I was sweating my face off) during a recent heat wave and layers easily under any blazer for cooler nights. If there’s $17 I don’t regret, it’s this blouse. (And anytime I’ve spent $17 on margaritas. I definitely don’t regret those.)

3. White Blazer
A white blazer was something I avoided for a while. There was something about it, something a little too Miami Vice or doctor’s office about it, no? I decided to give it a shot and was surprised by how often I found myself reaching for it. From jeans to dresses to leather shorts, there’s pretty much nothing I won’t pair it with. I found this one at H&M, and it was the best less-than-thirty-bucks I’ve ever spent. If you’re looking for a way to give your summer wardrobe a little spruce, I’d highly recommend test-driving a white blazer. Don Johnson has nothing on you.

With the right basics, you can add in any fun summer pieces and trendy accessories to personalize your look. For more on my two cents, head over to www.mystylediaries.com.

xoxo