Keep it Neutral

Model Nour Lwasi wearing a Valentino crochet dress and Roger Vivier slide sandals. Photo by Brad Ogbonna, styling by Beverly Nguyen.

This season, a relaxed color trend is making the rounds — and it’s a welcomed change of pace from the bold hues and boisterous prints that typically come with the start of summer. Enter: neutrals, the subdued palate cleanser that we didn’t know we needed. Synonymous with minimalism and quiet luxury, neutral-toned fashion items have picked up steam in recent seasons, particularly amongst smart shoppers who choose versatile accessories that will get more mileage in their wardrobes. What’s more: neutrals never truly go out of style, making bags, shoes, and belts in beige, taupe and bone shades well worth the investment.

A crop of designers have interpreted the neutrals trend in fresh ways for summer: Stella McCartney with its gold chain-adorned handbag, for instance, as well as Saint Laurent with a pair of plush mink beach slides. While styles and occasions vary, they all have one thing in common: each silhouette is designed to help your splashiest pieces take center stage.

Stella McCartney platform sandal.

Looking for a bit of lift? Stella McCartney’s summer-ready sandal comes with a sporty-chic platform that’s sure to do the trick. Style the ‘00s way with blanched denim shorts, a halter top, and gradient frames.

Stella McCartney chunky chain bag.

In a classic ecru shade, this neutral carryall will play the perfect complement to your summer whites. Its chunky gold chain, on the other hand, is versatile enough for year-round wear, meaning this Stella bag will continue to add value to your wardrobe long after Labor Day.

Christian Dior D-Bubble bucket bag.

Dior’s tassel-spangled bucket bag comes with an ease that’s perfect for slinging over your shoulder on beach days, or toting as a carry-on with your best airport look. For both, style with a casual button-up and your best denim shorts.

Bottega Veneta beaded Jodie tote.

Bottega went big with camel and chocolate hues this season, and its Jodie bag featured both with rows of wooden beads. For an elegant, low-maintenance look, style with an elongating column dress and sculptural sandals with sphere motifs.

Brunello Cucinelli laser-cut belt.

Chunky belts made a major comeback across Resort 2021 collections — and they’re far from losing steam. Style Brunello Cucinelli’s version (which comes with an edgy lasercut design) with a polished knit tank and a circle skirt.

Chanel leather bag with beaded strap.

With its double-C stamp and pearlescent chain detail, Chanel puts a classy, preppy take on the nude handbag trend for summer. Pair yours with a tweed dress and ballerinas for a prim and proper look.

Saint Laurent mink beach slide.

What happens when you cross winter-ready furs with a peak summer silhouette? You get an all-season favorite with infinite styling options. Saint Laurent’s beach slide comes in sumptuous mink fur, which can be styled on its own all summer and layered with fun, printed socks come winter.

Loewe tote bag, available at The Webster.