July brings sweltering summer days, backyard get-togethers with friends and family, and fun and exotic getaways. Fortunately, Memphis shops have everything you need to sail through the dog days of summer in style. From the hottest fashions to keep you cool to outdoor entertaining essentials and unique vacation gear, explore this month’s round of local FINDS!
SUMMER FASHION
Feeling retro dress
Channel your inner hippie chick with this fun, flirty sundress. With luscious florals, flared sleeves, and an open back, its polished, carefree vibe makes it an excellent dress for an outdoor concert, a night on the town, or any dressy-casual event you have lined up. Pair it with a woven belt and espadrilles for an island look. Snag this dress for $76 at Cashmere & Roses.
Vegan leather woven purse
Time to upgrade your bag? Treat yourself to this sleek woven purse, fashioned from vegan leather. Its pristine white hue complements any outfit and includes an inner pouch for all your beauty essentials. Find it for $98 at Spruce.
Tulip dress
If you’re looking for an outfit you can live in this summer, we’ve found the perfect dress! Designed by Ivory Closet owner Jen Burris for her Haus of Vox line, this dress is gorgeous with its pink hue and flowy silhouette. Dress it up with platforms or down with flip-flops — either way, you’ll look fabulous! Find it for $82.99 at Ivory Closet.
Gloria turquoise crochet palm hat
Whether lounging by the pool or running errands in the steamy heat, this wide-brimmed Gloria palm hat, accented with a handwoven band of turquoise and coral scallops, will keep you looking and feeling effortlessly cool. Made with palm fronds ethically harvested from Guatemala’s Chixoy River, this hat is part of a fair-trade collection of palm hats that generates income for more than 100 Guatemalan female artisans. Peruse the entire collection and choose your favorite style for $129 at Oak Hall.
Flower print top
Need an easy, breezy top for date night or a girls’ trip? This baby-doll style blouse has it all: a charming floral print, puff sleeves, and a sexy, adjustable tie-back. Whatever the occasion, you’ll stand out! Find this top for $68.50 at Indigo.
Floral cuff bracelet
Add some boho chic to your summer wardrobe with this elegant cuff bracelet. Handmade in India and embroidered with a bold vintage floral design, this cuff makes a stunning statement piece for your sleeveless tops and dresses. Find it for $28.95 at More Than Words.
901 trucker hat
Keep the sun out of your eyes and the UV rays at bay while showing off your Memphis pride in this adorable trucker hat. The adjustable straps and mesh backing will help you stay cute and cool no matter how high the temps rise. Get it for $38 at Pickering Boxwood.
Pons sandals
Step out in style this summer with these comfy, colorful sling-back sandals. The versatile sandals are handmade in Menorca, Spain, from high-quality, ethically sourced leather, and they pair perfectly with denim shorts, white pants, or a sundress. Best of all, the soles are made with partially recycled rubber, making them eco-friendly. Pick up a pair in a rainbow of colors (berry, peach, royal blue, aqua blue, pink, mustard, taupe, lava, or black) for $88 each at Falling Into Place.
Silk fan
From the runways of Paris to designer boutiques, handheld fans are making a comeback! Beat the July heat wave with this decorative silk fan that will make you look stylish and practical. Made in Portugal with polished pear wood, it’s a must-have accessory for any festival, concert, or cookout. Pick up a fan in several prints for $19.96 each at Paradox at PeCo.
OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING ESSENTIALS
Stemless wine glasses
Whether hosting a barbecue or an al fresco meal for two, these acrylic glasses — modeled after Juliska’s bohemian glass Isabella motif — bring casual elegance to any outdoor event. Fill them with your favorite vino and sip away! Pick up a set for $18 per glass at Babcock Gifts.
Ceramic baking dish
Potluck season is upon us! Impress guests at your next gathering with a cobbler, brownies, or any baked creations in this pretty ruffled ceramic dish by Casafina. Made from fine Portuguese stoneware, the sturdy dish is safe to use in the freezer, oven, microwave, and dishwasher. Plus, the handles make it a cinch to transport. Find it for $69 at Bella Vita.
Appetizer plate set
Planning a patio party or backyard brunch for your pals? These quaint, handcrafted appetizer plates by Danica Heirloom are perfect for small gatherings that include cocktails and apps. The gold-rimmed plates come in four sun-kissed colors sure to brighten up your table, and they can double as salad or dessert plates. Invest in a set for $34 at Cooper-Young Gallery and Gift Shop.
Pressed flower mini bowl
Bring a touch of nature to your next outdoor event with this lovely mini bowl pressed with dried flowers. Fill it with salsa, guacamole, or a bean dip — and wait for the oohs and ahhs as guests dig in. This bowl and larger pressed flower bowls and trays are available for $29 at Social.
VACATION GEAR
Palm Branch beach blanket
Headed to the beach? You won’t want to leave home without this beach blanket by Geometry. It’s ultra-absorbent, quick-drying, and easy to pack — with plenty of room for two. It’s also made with recycled plastic bottles (though you wouldn’t know it by the blanket’s smooth texture), so it’s good for the planet, too. The blankets are available in various geometric, floral, and nature-inspired designs. The one pictured here can be found for $69 at City & State.
Mini cooler bag
Wherever your summer days take you, this stylish sage-striped mini cooler bag from Kollab may be your new best travel companion, keeping you hydrated and satiated 24/7. Pack everything from a full-size water bottle and snacks to a six-pack of your favorite brew. The bag (made partly with recycled plastic bottles) also has an adjustable shoulder strap and a zipped front pocket for your phone and keys. Find it for $39.95 at Mrs. Post.
Happy July, Memphis!
All photography by Emily McMackin Dye unless otherwise noted.
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