Summer Onwards! Have you made the seasonal switch to full Summer Mode? Unlike winter's chill, where we're piling on every scrap of clothing we own, summer is the opposite -- minimalism is the way to go, with light, comfortable clothing. The focus should be on the items that aren't subject to fit or size -- mainly, our skin and its protection from that great burning orb in the sky. Skincare is the priority for summer -- keep sunscreen handy, a wide-brimmed hat to shade your face, sunglasses to ward off glare, and a slouchy, casual bag to fit all the fun stuff you'll want to tote around, from beach party to picnic BBQ.

Don't lie, you've always wanted to pretend you're someone famous, wearing sunglasses indoors, trying to conspicuously look inconspicuous. And after all, we're Inspired by the best, as whenever you see pictures of famous actresses trying to "blend in" they do about as good of a job of being unnoticed as a giraffe standing in a crowd of field mice. But a fabulous giraffe.

So the Magpie proclaims a Pretend Day, where you wear some of your favorite things with sparkle, ruffles and shine, and keep those sunglasses on indoors. Keep 'em all guessing, wondering, Just who the hell does she think she is? Jaunty, of course. 

Some of the Magpie's favorite "LOOK AT ME, DAMMIT!" items from the Jaunty Wardrobe include: a bright pink clutch given as a gift, evening sparkle worn in the daytime from Betsey Johnson, silver glovelets from Nordstrom and a ruffle-collared jacket from Ann Taylor. And don't forget those sunglasses -- even if it's cloudy outside.


Jaunty Fine Print:  photo from Instyle.com and jaunty wardrobe shots by Denise Sakaki