Despite applying and reapplying sunscreen all day, I came home from my first trip to Long Beach with a nasty sunburn on my stomach and legs.  I thus ended up having a week of maxi dresses –  I didn’t want to wear anything that touched me too much, but I knew if someone bumped into my bare legs on the subway I might scream.  During this stint of functional dressing, this beachy maxi dress was my favorite.  I wore it to work with a cami to prevent *too* much cleavage, and wore it again on the weekend without the cami for a beach party on Far Rockaway (my skin wasn’t quite ready for full sun yet!)  The fabric is super soft, and the fit is easy – its a throw it on and go dress.  This style is also great for women on the petite side – I’m 5’4″ and the length was good on me, and the smocked waist makes it easy to adjust it up if needed.

Maxi dress: Tbags Los Angeles (via Gwynnie Bee, available here in straight sizes)

Handbag: Marc by Marc Jacobs (similar style here)

Cat flats: Urban Outfitters (sold out, similar here, designer that started the trend here)