I’m obsessed with Tom’s Shoes. There’s no getting around that they’re a little ugly, but so are pug dogs and everyone loves those. Tom’s have a way of taking a dress or leggings and a long top down a couple of notches and instead of trying so hard, you look kind of messily charming and arty and fun- without looking like the Scary Tennis Shoe With Dress lady we all know. Plus, it feels like you’re barefoot all day long, and since most models are canvas, there’s not a gross foot-sweat issue if you wear them without socks.

It’s guilt-free consumerism; for every pair of Tom’s you buy, a pair is donated to a child in need. I wear the mens’ black burlap ones everywhere. See the exact pair and many more here.

I’m not really the kind of person who has a lot of jewelry. I like to wear a few pieces over and over until they just become part of what I look like. I always think of my mom, who often wore nothing but a thin gold chain and a charm around her neck all summer long when I was a kid. That gold looked so pretty with her tan skin and dark hair, and it helped to define her style- simple, feminine, with beautiful skin and lots of white.  

I’m really tired of all those graduated plastic beads out there. With this summer’s feminine, structured looks, I think it might be time for me to break out one of those collarbone-grazing, hair-thin chains and a little charm, early-80’s-mom-style. I’ll leave it on even with my bikini and when I’m out on the weekend- just a little whisper, like the perfume of a girl walking by you.  This one has a nice handmade look to it. 14K Heart lock charm, $66, charmco.com. Available here. 

Get Ashlee Simpson’s look for less than $180

• Forever 21 - Top- $19.80
• ASOS - Earrings- $32.51
• Bluefly - Ring- $25.00
• Urban Outfitters - Jeans- $49.00
• Piperlime - Boots- $49.99

ASOS (formerly As Seen On Screen) features products similar to those that celebrities wear but without the hefty price tag. I love their store and if you haven’t heard of them you should check them out. While browsing through their site I found this absolutely adorable wicker clutch and just had to share it. It fits in with the natural accessory trend and is a perfect addition to your summer wardrobe.

Cost: $43.34

Click here to purchase ASOS’ Straw Clutch With Tuck Look

Like many girls out there, I have trouble finding a decent swimsuit. Every year around this time, the panic hits as I struggle to find a suit in my size before all the cute ones are gone. Also, like many other women, I’m not a fan of bikinis because I don’t feel comfortable exposing that much skin. Besides, less is more, right? Finding the right one-piece can be difficult at times, since all you see are skimpy bikinis everywhere. Not to mention how downright boring and fugly some one-piece suits can be. But not to fear, here some cute options for modest girls at the beach:

How chic is this white suit? Pair with gold accessories like model Adriana Lima (pictured) for ultimate glamour. $96 at Victoria’s Secret.

Here is a cute pink suit that I actually plan on buying for the season. It’s actually by Jessica Simpson (who knew she makes swimsuits?). I love the gingham print and the ruffles. $80 at Victoria’s Secret.

Another adorable piece from Delia’s. I like the retro shape of the suit, and the irresistible heart print (plus there are other colors to choose from!). $33.50 at Delia’s.

Finally, after you’re done splashing around in the water, here is a cute cover up to lounge around in:

$279 at shopbop.

Don’t forget to wear sunscreen!