Tessa Faye O'Connell is a contributor known for her work at various fashion houses, specializing in media and public relations, currently working at Coach as its global PR director. She's a mom of two, working to expand her influence in the fashion space through styling while also just making it out the door on time.
Summer’s not over yet, but as we approach end-of-season sales, I wanted to share my go-to warmer-weather brands. Not only are their pieces consistently cute, but they also truly withstand the test of time. I try to invest in brands that are not only wearable to the office, or on the weekend, but that when I take them out for next season—the quality and styles hold up and they’re easy to throw on still. For some reason, I have no tolerance in the summer for brands that don’t feel functional and breathable, especially given the consistent heat waves we’ve been encountering on the East Coast.
The ability to rely on certain brands makes shopping a bit easier. While I love discovering new and emerging brands, it’s nice to be able to go IRL, or grab a few things online knowing some are going to be an easy win. Plus: investing in brands that have great top and dress options makes vacation dressing easier as always because then I always have a few things I love in my closet ready to go. Also, it doesn’t hurt that many of these brands are female-led.
The Great
One of my favorite brands always. This set has served me well and the top will transition easily into Fall. All of their pieces feel extremely special and I’m still wearing my pieces from them 4+ years later.
Mirth
A brand that not only has some of the best pieces season after season, it's ethically produced in India and Peru with a socially conscious approach to design and business. Makes buying the brand feel even better. I am obsessed with this top, and all of their dresses are throw on and be happy.
Dôen
Female founded with a cult following—I never regret anything I buy from Dôen and whether work or play, they are items I am always getting complimented on.
Hill House
I know I’ve been behind on Hill House until this year, but I love that all their items are extremely wearable and extremely comfortable. (Doesn't hurt when you can wear solo, or with matching pants.)
Ciao Lucia
There’s a reason everything from Ciao Lucia is always sold out! Everything is extremely chic, and makes you feel good the second you put on.
Rixo
This brand time after time just always has pieces that are easy to wear and easy to feel special in.
Hunter Bell
I got this set mid-summer, and I am so completely obsessed with the quality. I love that their pieces are well made and feel fancier as I tend to teeter more casual. I’ve already picked out a few more end-of-summer pieces to bring me into fall.
Zara
Sometimes, you just need to rely on Zara, whether its for trend, or a basic.
