I made an impromptu detour into the James Perse store on Bleecker Street today and came out with two pieces I will wear on repeat once the weather warms up (plus they fold up tiny, so perfect travel companions). The first is this simple black linen knit dress above. I don’t usually do clingy, but I braved trying it on (see below) and it was quite flattering. (The sales person noted that they had the same material last year and it stretches, so if you size down it will end up fitting like it is a size larger. I’m wearing a size 1 in the photo, I bought a zero.) Keep it simple with black sandals, perhaps a hairband a la Liv Ullman, and silver jewelry feels right (I have a small production of silver pieces coming in soon, so if you order you might get one much sooner that the typical lead time). When I want more coverage, I will throw a white button-down like my one from Frances de Lourdes over the dress.
I also bought the cardigan in the same material in white (I don’t like them together), because I’m always searching for a white summer knits. This one I kept in the size 1 that I tried.
Westman Atelier Lip Suede in Les Nudes, $85; James Perse dress, $350 (and cardigan, below, $295); A Emery sandals, $190; Jennifer Alfano XL Mariner Link bracelet, $560; headband, $10.
Jen says
Wonderful post! James Perse consistently keeps me looking pulled together every sweltering summer in this city. Their things have been great lately. I will have to try this dress; Your suggestions are always spot on!
jennifer says
Thanks. Yes it’s hard to be a minimalist in the summer. James Perse is a go-to.
Marcheline says
I love your fitting room shots. My typical style is loose/oversized and whenever I step into something clingy I feel beautiful and… womanly? It’s a nice change of pace. It is incredibly flattering and you look great. Have a wonderful weekend! Marcheline Isabelle
jennifer says
You are right. Most of the time I’m in looser clothing. This dress doesn’t feel tight, I think that’s its secret.
Alex Black says
Thank you, you’ve just helped me to figure out how to wear a clingy grey dress that I bought years ago from Alexander Wang, but always felt too tight. Wear an oversized shirt over it, of course!
jennifer says
Perfect. I wear mine with a gray silk slip dress too.
Mamavalveeta03 says
What a fantastic dress, Jennifer! Versatile, flattering, and oh so simple – my criteria for a “perfect dress”!
jennifer says
Thanks! Yes, it’s nice when it all comes together.
KSL says
Both are fantastic. I’ve been really liking JP a lot lately, and bought the linen drawstring pants you recommended. Contemplating that sweater which is casual, but very sexy too.
jennifer says
Me too. And the sweater is definitely getting worn with those linen pants!
Bevin Conn Wallace says
Would you mind sharing what jeans you’re wearing in that last shot with the cardigan? They look like something I’ve been searching for (wider legs but not too wide or baggy). Love your blog, thanks!
jennifer says
Of course! They are the Nili Lotan Anna Jeans which I wrote about recently. I love them. #worthit
Annie says
Gorgeous pieces, love the cardigan in particular. The A Emery sandals are amazing I have them in black and burgundy and I have worn them all summer ( I am Australian).
jennifer says
I have a different pair of A Emery x Matteau ones…these are next!