Dresses are those one-piece wonders that do (almost) all the work for you. But luckily, you still get to pick out a killer pair of shoes. Peep the tips below for the answer to the question, “What shoes should I wear with this dress?”

1. The Tailored Sheath
Polish. Poise. Keep that image going by pairing this work-ready number with the clean shape of a classic pump, slingback, kitten heel, or even a chic ballet flat.
Avoid: Ankle boots. They’ll visually crop your legs at an awkward length.

2. The Maxi Dress
Maxi dresses are the easiest and breeziest of summer ensembles, so naturally, they pair well with flat, comfortable sandals. But if your maxi’s a little too maxi? Among other solutions, a great pair of wedges (in summery cork, perhaps?) is the most fashionable of fixes.
Avoid: Pumps. They’re too dressed up and fussy for this casual style.

3. The Cocktail Number
Short hemlines. Playful shapes. You’ve got a recipe that calls for heels. So pull out a pair of ankle-strap or T-strap stilettos and keep the visual interest going from head to toe. Since you’re showing off some leg, you don’t have to worry about the straps cutting you off at the ankle.
Avoid: Flats. They’ll make your legs look shorter and downgrade the fancy factor.

4: The Black-Tie Gown
When glamour combines with a floor-grazing hem, always go with heels. Strappy stilettos let your toes peek out, show off your pedicure, and put just a little bit of extra skin on display.
Avoid: Wedges. They’re too beachy and casual for such a swanky dress.

Our Meet Your Match: Find Your Perfect-Shape Dress Boutique opens Wednesday, June 19, at 11AM ET.

By Chrissy Makkas, Staff Writer

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

Oh, ombré – it’s one effortless summer style that surely won’t fade. And rest assured, this gradient palette of color isn’t the tie-dye of your heyday. Whether you shop the look or go for DIY, there’s more to know about the dip-dye process than what meets the eye.

Ombré – the French word for “shaded” – suggests the style, while dip-dye refers to the tie-dye technique used to achieve its gradient glory. The fade effect is created by lowering the garment into the desired dye and gradually lifting it out. Leaving the lower half submerged a little longer will yield a deeper hue at the hem.

Obsessed yet? Well, you’re in luck – from dip-dyed hair to ombré manis, there are plenty of ways to rock the trend this season.

By Jillian Hudon, Staff Writer

Want the lowdown on fabrics and more? Follow our What Are You (Really) Wearing? column every Tuesday.

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

Bold trends and summer go hand in hand. Everything’s a bit more carefree, and taking fashion risks doesn’t seem as daunting. So whether you’ve been dying to rock colorblocking, neon, or lots of little stripes, all of this season’s of-the-moment looks are right here (from nine have-forever labels). Not quite sure which ones to own? The five below are a good starting point. And don’t worry, there’s nothing too crazy or hard to pull off. Just step into a pair of sandals and flaunt away.

Which trend will you try? The Nine: Wardrobe-Building Labels Boutique opens Sunday, June 16, at 11AM ET.

By Brianna Lapolla, Staff Writer

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

Whether you’re rocking two or ten pieces on your wrist, there’s really no wrong way to put together an arm party. Personally, I’m a fan of the anything-goes method: stick your hand in the bracelet basket, withdraw a random handful, and stack them on. But different outfits and personalities demand that you have an arsenal of styles to choose from. Here’s how to achieve three of my favorite looks:

Go Monochrome
If matching is more you, try sticking to one metal and a neutral color scheme for a uniform look. Classic silver and black is a marriage that will never go out of style.

Go Boho
In my book? This means mix, mix, and mix (matching: optional). The more varied your pairings are, the better. Just make sure to include plenty of leather and gems.

Go Rogue
Simply put – rules were made for breaking. Slide on those delicate, special-occasion bangles, followed by (gasp) a men’s watch, a wrap-happy piece, and anything with studs. The goal? Shock and awe.

Our Shining Steals: The Jewelry & Watch Sale opens Saturday, June 15, at 11AM ET.

By Abigail Kuzia, Editor

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

As soon as you enter the Faherty Brand showroom and store, you’ll sense a relaxed, cool vibe that you might have once believed only an oceanside trip could provide. Lining the racks are swimsuits rich with color and patterns collected from the designers’ travels.

Women’s two-piece styles come in a variety of shapes you can mix and match, while the one-pieces have an elegant, retro feel to them. For men, swim trunks are full of practical detailing like hidden back zip pockets. One of my favorite aspects of the men’s line is its faded, sun-weathered hues.

But the best part? These swimsuits are made with recycled polyester from plastic bottles. Approximately seven bottles go into the swimsuits and 20 into the swim trunks. It’s nice to know these pieces are not only comfortable – they’re environmentally sound, too.

By Alejandro Lopez, Adentro Style

What do you think of the Faherty Brand showroom and swimsuits? Share in the comments below, or tweet us at @ruelala.

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

Yes, the temps are up. But that doesn’t mean you should go without a summer jacket. Whether strolling by the waterfront or dining alfresco, these seasonable toppers let you take cover when cool breezes hit (and hit they will).

The White Blazer
Just like a classic black blazer, every woman should own a white version for summer. Wear it to work or over a sequined mini for a night out on the town.

The Drape-Front Cardigan
It’s always smart to have this easy-to-wear (and remove) sweater on hand.

The Tweed Jacket
True, tweed is typically a winter-weight material. But when done up with metallics and quarter sleeves, it works with every breezy summer dress.

Our St. John: Beloved. And back on Rue. Boutique opens Friday, June 14, at 11AM ET.

By Keriann Coffey, Associate Blog Editor

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

There’s just something about those California girls. Their style, vibe, and effortless way of doing… everything. Good news: you don’t actually have to live in the Golden State to achieve the look. All you need is revealed below.

Loose Waves
Rock fresh-from-the-beach waves (without stepping foot in the ocean). Just follow this step-by-step guide to get the look any time of year.

Laid-Back Style
Maybe it’s the warm weather, but Cali girls have an ease about them. Throw on a short, flowy sundress (like this one) and you’ll practically feel yourself lighten up.

A Sun-Kissed Glow
The trick to achieving a bronze complexion (sans damaging rays)? It’s all in the sunless tanner. Just exfoliate and apply. Here’s how to do it without the threat of streaks.

Boardwalk-Ready Wedges
And for the finishing touch: add a pair of sky-high wedge sandals. They’re comfy, stylish, and you won’t want to rip them off after five seconds.

Our JOIE Boutique opens Thursday, June 13, at 11AM ET.

By Brianna Lapolla, Staff Writer

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

Board shorts or swim trunks? That is the question. Aside from inseam length, what exactly is the difference between these two menswear swim styles?

Board Shorts
This surf-inspired style was originally designed to have a longer inseam to help your skin avoid direct contact with the surfboard. These durable shorts are almost always unlined, but they feature a solid waistband with a lace-up tie closure. Board shorts are the best bet for thrill-seekers and those looking to really make waves at the beach.

Swim Trunks
With a hem that hits above the knee, this trim style really lets those thighs get some sun. A classic trunk always includes a mesh interior lining and an elasticized waist with tie drawstring for a little added security. If you want to make a splash, the swim trunk is a good pick for the pool.

By Jillian Hudon, Staff Writer

Want the lowdown on fabrics and more? Follow our What Are You (Really) Wearing? column every Tuesday.

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

Fashion is a form of self-expression. So, naturally, the pieces we pick often speak to our likes, loves, and personalities in one way or another. There may be nothing more telling, though, than a pair of shoes. Here’s a look at what your go-to kicks may be telling the world about you.

1. Resort-Hopper: Espadrilles are the go-to vacation shoe. When you slip on a pair with your flowing maxi dress, you’re projecting your passion for jet-setting. You’ve always got that next trip on the calendar.

2. On-the-Go: Comfy shoes are a must for multitasking types who never stop moving. You’re ready to break into the chicest of sprints (even while wearing cuffed jeans and a crisp tee) at a moment’s notice. But only if necessary.

3. Boho: You’re a free spirit who’s always aiming to get back to nature in any way possible. Barefoot would be your preferred mode, but flat, strappy sandals make for a more-than-adequate compromise when you’re wearing your peasant top and denim cutoffs.

4. Femme Fatale: You’re aware of your charms and always step out in heightening, stem-lengthening, curve-enhancing heels. Those skinny jeans, pencil skirts, and party dresses just wouldn’t be complete without them. You’re a heartbreaker – and everyone knows it.

Our OMG. So. Many. Shoes. Boutique opens Tuesday, June 11, at 11AM ET.

By Chrissy Makkas, Staff Writer

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

With this kind of eye candy in the studio, concentrating is always a struggle.

Our alice + olivia Boutique opens Monday, June 3, at 11AM ET.