Dive into Cool & Pretty: Dresses, Coastal Looks, Neutrals & Brights

Dive into Cool & Pretty

Dresses, Coastal Looks, Neutrals & Brights

By Allison McCrory / Photos by Kate Treick Photography

***Shopping list:*** Celebrate summer in this maxi dress by THML, $99, that is cool in more ways than one.

With summer upon us, dressing cool takes on new meaning.

“I love the ease and flow of gauze and all-cotton during our sweltering heat, but I often find myself layering up as well with a cardigan or poncho in the AC,” said Di McLaughlin of Lee Tracy on Gregory Street in Pensacola.

“Continuing to make waves are the wide-leg pant, both full-length and crop for summer. Think beach walking, evening strolls along the shores and breezy fabrics.

“Skirts remain easy to throw on with a knotted tee and flip flops or a nice wedge for a great summer look as well. High-waisted skirts seem to be popping up from all my vendors, in cool cotton fabrics with easy waistbands that fold over, or can be worn pulled up to create a tube dress,” McLaughlin said.

That is just one example of the “one and done” dresses that are trending this season in every length.

“With summer temps on the rise, these dresses are a perfect way to keep it simple and cool,” she said.

Other trends to look for: charm necklaces and bracelets, coastal stripes, soft feminine florals, summer pops of color and neutrals following the lead of Pantone’s color of the year, Mocha Mousse, a subtle creamy brown.

***Shopping list:*** This matching set by Liverpool oozes elegance and will shine when extra is in order. Pants, $109; top, $89.

***Shopping list:*** Summer and hot pink go hand in hand! This Brand sweater, $116, teams beautifully with white Liverpool shorts, $89, for a day exploring the coast.

Avery Young

Tate High English teacher Avery Young has been diving deep into philanthropy for years.

As a student at UWF, she was director of philanthropy for her sorority, planning and hosting numerous events throughout our community.

“Spending as much time as I did networking and lending helping hands led me to be nominated to be Ms. University of West Florida in 2023, which I eventually became crowned. It is such an honor to be able to represent the school that has given so much to me,” said Young, who also graduated from Pensacola State College.

Young, the former Ms. UWF, keeps the good deeds going by volunteering at school- and church-related events when not coaching track.

For fun, she often turns to Pensacola Beach and downtown Pensacola.

“One of my favorite ways to spend time around the coast is going to Bands on the Beach! I have been going ever since I was a little girl, and it is always the highlight of my week,” said Young. “My favorite thing ever is going to the beach and walking up and down the beach to find the best seashells for my collection.”

Young enjoys perusing art at the fall Great Gulf Coast Arts Festival, especially last year when her grandmother’s pottery was on display.

“I love catching a game at the Blue Wahoos stadium; it is such a fun atmosphere for the whole family as we are so fortunate to have a minor league baseball team in town. My favorite part is when the sun starts to go down and it creates a beautiful sunset that scrapes the coastline behind Maritime Park while the Wahoos are winning.”

Simply grabbing a coffee and meandering around downtown Pensacola boutiques and art galleries makes Young’s heart smile.

“There are opportunities everywhere to get involved within Pensacola. Dive in to all of the unique activities that Pensacola has to offer, and you will never want to leave!”