Weekend Wear

There is nothing better on a summer Friday than trading those stuffy corporate clothes for breezy weekend wear. I spent a part of this past weekend at a barbecue with friends, complete with night swimming and marshmallow-roasting. It was the epitome of summer. There's something about those spontaneous late nights that makes everything at the time seem perfectly in place. I often forget to relax without worry, but everyone needs a little breather from time to time.

Top: H&M (similar here & here)

Shorts: Forever 21 (similar here & here)

Sandals: Forever 21 (similar here)

I actually shot these photos minutes before heading off to the barbecue. Since we were spending the entire night outside, I wanted to wear an outfit that toes the line between breezy and cozy. What better piece to wear on a summer night than an off-the-shoulder blouse? With the combination of a light fabric, long sleeves, and bare shoulders, you'll be set for the changing temperatures. I've been loving the bare shoulder look this summer because it is the unexpected alternative to the crop top. In my opinion, shoulders are just as (dare I say) sexy as the subtle hint of midriff that results from wearing crop tops. Pair the top with a simple pair of shorts, and you have a look that is just the essence of summer. Have we found ourselves the new crop top?