By Karen and Erica

The summer of COVID is upon us, and we are ready to step out. Of course we will observe the new rules of social behaviour, but that is no reason not to enjoy the light and flirty summer styles we love.

Let’s start with dresses. Simple white linen dresses are a mainstay. And white shifts. The easier, the better. Pair them with something neon, like sandals. Or, of course, a mask.

Sometimes we go for color, or pattern. When we were young we didn’t wear Lilly Pulitzer. But now--maybe we have grown into her midi dresses that swing in the breeze. Johnny Was is new(ish) to us. His dresses are fun too--full of color and light. And we feel special in flowers. Elegant ones, sparingly applied, like those by Lafayette 148.

Stripes are made for summer,  especially in a beachy dress. One of us is particularly fond of animal stripes. (The other one is intimidated.) Striped shirts are essential too--like this incredibly snazzy one, perfect for Zooming. And for those cooler evenings at a beachfront soiree, a sporty striped jacket works. (OK, so beachfront soirees are not appropriate venues this year, but if you have a striped jacket you will be ready for the invitations that will pour in when they are OK again.)

Dresses with dots are great too. (We had not put polka dots and Sophia Loren together. If we wear them will we channel some of her smoky glamour?) Or try a white and black skirt, with a neon pink top—killer!

How about caftans? Made for statuesque women like Nancy Kissinger, we think, more than for short people like us. But they are very glam. Some of these could be fun.

We don’t wear tight—or any—trousers much in summer. Shorts, yes, and we like these fruity ones. When we do wear pants, we want breezy. Cropped and lightly structured ones let your ankles breathe. Covered in flowers, they seem airy even they’re not. Wide legs are good, especially in red. Perfect with a white tee.

Jumpsuits are nicely breezy too, especially through the middle. Striped ones are particularly cool. And we like Everlane’s versions.. Apparently Megan Markle does too.

Of course, you’ll need sandals and swimsuits and sunglasses too.

What don’t we like? Tying your pant legs around your ankles. Why??? To trap the heart in??? Oversize dresses hanging off you from head to foot. They are everywhere. Way too much volume for summer. Or ever. Balloon sleeves, often combined with a gathered neck and several busy patterns. If you are over 10 you are too old for swim floaties. And whose idea was a one-shoulder swimsuit with a huge ruffle?

Summer is not for ponderous. Summer is for fun. Keep it light!