As I write this, I'm staring at a pile of clothes for my beach vacation and dreaming of more colorful and exciting options. My shopping pendulum has swung too far into the basics category, and there are gaps that a green minidress or bright blue top could easily fill. I'm tired of wearing denim shorts and plain white tanks, so it's time to hit up Free People. This brand's in-house collection, free-est, single-handedly adds bohemian whimsy to any wardrobe. Don't believe me? Just ask our Fashion Director, Michaela Bushkin, who stopped by Free People's SoHo store just last week to try on a few looks. She left with the summer-wardrobe trifecta: breathable, stylish, and easygoing. I've stolen her outfit ideas for myself, and I think you should do the same. To see her finds, keep reading.
"This green minidress hits every qualification for my perfect summer dress: lightweight fabric, fun hue, flowy fit, and adjustable straps (IYKYK). I elevated the dress with these silver embellished sandals—the toe-ring detail is basically built-in jewelry." — Michaela Bushkin
"This angular, strapless blue top is the kind of piece I'll style in one million ways this summer—with denim cutoffs, a long skirt, and trousers, to name a few. Here I paired the flirty piece with baggy pants that feel both beachy and polished. They come with adjustable strings on the waistband so you can wear them as low or high-rise pants—it's a win-win." — Bushkin
"A matching set where each piece can also be worn separately is a dream scenario, especially when it comes to packing for a vacation. This black linen skirt and matching top make a chic base for seasonal accessories like shell necklaces, raffia bags, beaded sandals, and, obviously, my new favorite crochet hat. Peep the backless detail on the top—so cute! I'd wear this as a beach coverup, and later, to an al fresco dinner." — Bushkin
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