As the season winds down, I’ve found myself savoring every golden moment of late summer. The days may be shorter, the evenings cooler, but there’s still something magical about these final weeks. For me, it’s about soaking in the sunshine near the water, indulging in bold yet timeless style, and curating pieces that make me feel confident, comfortable, and—most importantly—like myself.
This summer, two categories of clothing stood out as my seasonal favorites: flattering swimsuits that carried me through long days at the beach, and effortlessly chic wardrobe staples from Sezane that transitioned me seamlessly from afternoon strolls to evenings out. Together, they’ve made these last sun-filled weeks feel that much sweeter.
Swimwear That Does It All
Finding swimwear that feels both flattering and functional can be a challenge, especially postpartum and as someone petite. But this year, I landed on a few key designs that felt like game-changers.
The Sidestroke: Sleek and Sculpting
This one-shoulder swimsuit is as striking as it is wearable. Offered in both classic solids and playful colorblock options, it’s a piece that feels timeless yet modern. The version I’ve been wearing—rich Lava paired with bright Hibiscus and soft White Sand—looks like summer captured in fabric. The compression offers subtle support without sacrificing comfort, while the asymmetric open back adds just enough intrigue. For someone petite like me, the fit was polished and effortless.
The Bow-Shoulder Sidestroke: Feminine with a Twist
If the Sidestroke is sleek, the Bow-Shoulder version is its elegant, more romantic sister. The addition of a bow elevates it from simple to statement-making, and the sculpted fit makes it as flattering as it is comfortable. It’s the kind of swimsuit so beautiful you could almost style it as a top. I especially love it in floral prints—they add a whimsical note that feels perfect for summer’s mood.
The Ruffle Backflip: Flirty and Fun
Playful yet refined, the Ruffle Backflip mixes a deep V-neckline with ruffle accents and a low open back. While it offers slightly cheekier coverage than the others, it still feels secure and confidence-boosting. The colorblock placement at the waist subtly lengthens the legs, a thoughtful touch that makes it as flattering as it is fun.
What ties all of these swimsuits together is Summersalt’s thoughtful design. They strike the balance between modern and timeless, playful and polished, while remaining postpartum- and petite-friendly. Each one made me feel confident, whether chasing little ones at the water park or lounging with family by the pool.
Sezane’s Summer Éditions: Chic Beyond the Beach
Of course, summer style isn’t just about swimwear. When I wasn’t near the water, I found myself reaching for a few standout pieces from Sezane’s summer Éditions collection. They’ve been on my radar for a while, and this season, I finally indulged in a couple of items that instantly became favorites.
The Charlie Dress: Sculptural and Striking
The Charlie dress is one of those pieces that feels as good as it looks. With its sculptural silhouette, subtle texture, and vibrant color, it’s a dress that turns heads while remaining incredibly wearable. The adjustable straps make it easy to customize the fit, and the gathered chest band ensures it flatters without fuss. On me (5 ft, 110 pounds), a size 2 fell perfectly—no tailoring required. I love that it also comes in ivory and navy, offering options for different moods and occasions.
The Agnes Blazer: Soft Structure at Its Best
Then there’s the Agnes blazer, which might just be one of the most versatile pieces I’ve added to my wardrobe. The fabric is velvety-soft, with a drape that feels more like sophisticated loungewear than structured outerwear—yet it looks polished enough for any occasion. I’m wearing a size 2, which fits comfortably across the shoulders and waist. The sleeves are a touch long, but nothing a simple styling trick (my go-to hair tie hack for rolled cuffs) can’t fix. It’s offered in a rich green shade as well, which feels like a beautiful transition piece heading into fall.
Style That Stays With You
What I love about both Summersalt and Sezane is their ability to create designs that are timeless without being boring, playful without feeling fleeting. Whether it’s a swimsuit that lets me fully enjoy a day in the sun or a blazer that makes even jeans feel elevated, these pieces have made my summer wardrobe feel fresh, practical, and joyful.
As we say goodbye to the hottest days and look ahead to cooler ones, I’m cherishing these pieces not just for how they look, but for how they make me feel: confident, at ease, and ready to savor whatever the season brings next.
Here’s to the last golden days of summer—and to carrying that spirit of effortless style into fall.
