Lately, I’ve been feeling like my inspiration boards on Pinterest are fighting each other.
One minute I want to be a clean-girl minimalist in matching pointelle sets, then I want to be a cool city girl in oversized button-downs and tortoise sunglasses; the next I’m adding sweetheart bows and puff sleeves to cart like I’m the main character in a Sofia Coppola film.
Call it a fashion identity crisis if you will.
In a world where micro-aesthetics pop up faster than your iced matcha latte melts, it’s easy to feel like you need to choose one and stick to it. As someone who loves to keep looks versatile, I’ve been struggling a bit with that concept.
Alignment Over Aesthetic
What I’m leaning into this summer is alignment over aesthetic. What exactly does that mean, you ask? It’s my new philosophy when it comes to fashion: I’m planning to mix aesthetics that reflect the different parts of me depending on the mood, the moment, or the plan, but still keep it somewhat consistent.
Of course, this isn’t anything breaking news, but it’s more of an art to balance different aesthetics than one might think. For this summer, here’s how I’m styling 3 of the summer’s most-loved aesthetics— and a guide on how to make them pair beautifully together:
Pastel-Coast Beach Day
There’s something about summer by the water that brings out my inner soft girl. For a chic beach day or a laid-back seaside getaway, think lightweight fabrics, muted pastels, and silhouettes that catch the breeze just right.
Style tip: Layer a beachy set over a bold swimsuit, toss on some gold jewelry, and sport a slick bun.
The Shelly Beach Set is ready for golden hour. In the sweetest soft pink hue, this adorable two-piece is made for casual, carefree moments. Think beach picnics, poolside lounging, or impromptu ice cream runs.
This tie-side two-piece is so cute with its pinched bust, adjustable straps, and flowy, layered hem. The elasticated waistband adds comfort while keeping things flattering.
If the Coastal Granddaughter trend met something a bit more flirty, youthful, and easygoing, the Batson Set would be it.
Made from 100% LENZING™ Viscose, this eco-conscious set features a ruched crop with adjustable straps and high-rise shorts that feel good to move in. The thick waistband keeps things comfy, while the full lining means no see-through surprises.
Sweet, Flirty, Baby Blue Daydream
There’s always room for a bit of flirt. This isn’t just limited to beachwear; it’s showing up in everyday fits through ruffles, pleats, soft blues, and playful cuts.
This summer, lean into soft textures, dainty cuts, and playful colors that will make you feel like the main character in an unforgettable summer rom-com.
I love these looks because they mix surprisingly well with your more laid-back staples. Think lace with denim, ruffles with sneakers. Opposites totally attract.
Style tip: Mix these with more casual pieces, like simple but layered jewelry or sleek leather sneakers.
The Lunya Top comes in a cornflower blue that is basically a love letter to all things dainty.
With lace trim at the bust and delicate straps you can adjust to perfection, this non-stretch cami-style top is soft, structured, and sweet all at once. Bonus points for being made with 100% reclaimed cotton. Sustainability never looked so romantic.
Straight out of a summer romance, the Zami Pleat Top is sheer, flirty, and full of little details that make a big impression.
With a lace-trimmed bust, bow front, and barely-there pleats that float when you move, it’s giving modern-day Juliet. Crafted from reclaimed polyester, this piece is planet-friendly and pretty.
The Legacies Dress is what you wear when your summer night suddenly turns cinematic and like a beautifully scored coming-of-age film.
With its icy blue satin, strapless neckline, and draped cowl back, this petite maxi was made for main character moments. Whether it’s a rooftop dinner or a dressed-up summer party, it will make you feel like someone just wrote a love song about you.
Cool Girl Summer in The City
This one’s for the it-girls running errands with matcha in one hand and a chic leather tote in the other.
Summer in the city means sweat and style have to coexist, and that’s where low-effort pieces come in. Think easy basics with clean lines, slouchy denim, and tops that pair with literally everything in your closet. It’s the “I didn’t try” look, but you still look put together every time.
Style tip: Add a crossbody bag, messy bun, and chunky sunnies for a look that’s perfectly undone but never sloppy.
This is your everyday essential. The Baseline Top is the tank you’ll throw on a thousand times without ever getting tired of it— think clean lines, a flattering square neckline, and a stretchy ribbed fabric that hugs just right.
If you have been wanting to build a capsule wardrobe, this is a must. I love that you can style it with literally everything, from slouchy jeans, silk skirts, to even biker shorts.
The Micah Tee is your “clean girl but make it casual” go-to. I have never come across a more perfect white tee, and all the fashion girls know THOSE cute white tees are hard to get by.
Cropped with capped sleeves, it’s the kind of top that just completes the look. Super soft, stretchy, and made from a reclaimed cotton blend, it’s got the comfort of your fave sleep shirt.
The Ellanor Denim in washed grey has a lived-in, slouchy fit that gives “borrowed from your skater friend” vibes without trying too hard.
They’re low-rise, loose, and just structured enough to pull off that cool, minimalist silhouette. Made with 20% reclaimed cotton, they keep things conscious without compromising style.
Keep Up With Princess Polly
Whether you’re testing out a new aesthetic or mixing your forever faves, Princess Polly is the best go-to for staying on trend. Be sure to stay posted on all things Princess Polly by following all socials! Find Princess Polly on Instagram at @princesspollyboutique.
