Photo courtesy of Victoria Saceanu

The Summer Dress Guide

While the fate of block parties, beach clubs, and blowout BBQs is still in limbo, gathering in small groups is finally okay again—and we’re thrilled. In the interest of being prepared, we put together a short list of the micro gatherings most likely to pop up on your calendar this summer, plus the preassembled looks to go with.

SO YOU’RE GOING TO…

YOUR FIRST DINNER PARTY

Getting together with your extended crew is delightful; getting ready for the occasion is even more so. Play up the prettiness of a colorblocked dress with glints of gold, inky-black lashes (missed you, mascara), and a clutch that’s big enough to bring home leftover dessert.

YOUR FRIEND’S BEACH BIRTHDAY

Blanket? Check. Seltzers? Check. Picnic basket packed to the brim? You guys don’t mess around. Florals are always relevant, and a skinny-strap bikini will keep the celebration going long after the sandos are gone.

YOUR COUSIN’S BABY SHOWER

Quarantine babies are coming, and those teensy onesies aren’t going to tie-dye themselves. Celebrate in something appropriate (50 percent chance it’s a boy!) and easy (because hors d’oeuvres). Bonus points for procuring a booze-free beverage for the mama-to-be.

YOUR FIRST DATE IN A YEAR

You matched, you exchanged flirty messages, and now you’re meeting in person. Some nerves are normal, of course—but the right look can help you navigate the night with ease. Finish with a spritz of something sexily understated on your pulse points.

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