14 Summer Style Lessons We're Stealing From Olivia Palermo

After seasons of studying up on Olivia Palermo's style, we've come to trust the fashion darling as something of an authority on effortless dressing. She's got a way with making flats and evening dresses look like a natural pairing (heels, who?) and has mastered that notice-me street style that never seems overthought. That said, it's her handle on Summer style that's won us over time and time again — outfits that feel special but always easy. You'll catch her look at an event and wonder, "Why didn't I think of that?!" Well, this time, you will — inside we've pulled 14 of Olivia's best Summer looks and the styling wisdom to glean from each of them. Read on to revamp your wardrobe right now.

01
Embrace Summer Layers
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Embrace Summer Layers

It sounds counterintuitive to add layers in the Summer, but a sleeveless vest, a longline linen duster, or another lightweight topper can add interest and dimension to your seasonal standbys.

02
Do Denim, Not Jeans
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Do Denim, Not Jeans

Follow Olivia's lead and ditch your jeans, but embrace the standby fabric on chambray shirts and denim skirts for a cooler way to channel Americana.

03
Sunglasses Are a Major Accessory
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Sunglasses Are a Major Accessory

Olivia's white-trimmed frames pick up the same color in her dress and give the whole look a chic, cohesive feel. She also opted for a chic pair of frames that feel just a bit dressed up, reminding us that your sunglasses, like any other accessory, should fit the occasion.

04
Say Yes to Flats
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Say Yes to Flats

Summer dressing should be uncomplicated, so embrace ballet flats and walkable sandals — yes, even when you're dressing for an event.

05
Try an Alternative to the Denim Jacket
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Try an Alternative to the Denim Jacket

The jean jacket is a beloved Summer staple for good reason — it goes with everything. That said, there's an unexpectedly cool vibe that comes with adding something different, like a sleek bomber jacket, à la Olivia.

06
You Can Totally Wear Black
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You Can Totally Wear Black

No color is off limits, least of all black. Despite its moody reputation, it looks fresh and unique when worn like Olivia did, in lighter fabrics (think eyelet and lace), and with cool flats or sandals.

07
Opt For the Summer Scarf
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Opt For the Summer Scarf

In lieu of a necklace, a silk scarf or neckerchief adds cool-girl appeal to a bare neckline.

08
Rework the Classics
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Rework the Classics

Love a Summer white dress? Take a tip from Olivia and test-drive a white tee and white skirt instead. The combo is endlessly versatile, and you can mix and match the pieces all Summer long, proving two pieces may really be better than one.

09
Keep It Simple
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Keep It Simple

Event dressing during the Summer easily looks overdone with too much makeup, overworked hair, and piles of jewelry or complicated fabrics. Keep it simple with a look that lets you breathe, then add subtle details like a belt or metallic heels to amp it up without trying too hard.

10
Dress Up Your Shorts
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Dress Up Your Shorts

It doesn't have to be all about dresses. Polished shorts can work for a number of Summer occasions, just jazz them up with pretty flats and a sophisticated blouse.

11
Prints Were Made For Mixing
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Prints Were Made For Mixing

Celebrate Summer with a cool mix of prints that reinvigorate your everyday outfits. Olivia made it look easy in a striped knit and dotted pants, echoing the same black color on the pants and top to help keep things in sync. Experiment and have fun with it — that's what Summer dressing should be: fun!

12
Reinvent Your Staples
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Reinvent Your Staples

This styling hack already has a legion of fashion fans, and it's simple to re-create. Add a tunic or flowy dress right on top of your jeans or tuck it in à la Olivia to give your dresses and trousers a second life.

13
Embrace Bold Color
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Embrace Bold Color

A notice-me hue, like the splashy coral on Olivia's dress, takes the effort out of getting dressed. No need to worry about extra add-ons — a playful color is like your secret weapon.

14
Make It Functional
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Make It Functional

Sometimes an outfit sounds great in theory, but the reality is a look you can hardly walk in. The reason Olivia always looks so chic is because she's comfortable in her clothes. So if you're on the go, look for pieces like Olivia's that you can move in. Think: chic sneakers, a breathable knit, and a flowy skirt for a step up on your everyday look.