Abby Kennedy always has a tropical mindset. The stylish owner of Abby & Jay Boutique in Parma has been running the boutique for a year now and has lived in various places from southern France to the shores of Miami. You can see this vibe thoroughly through her shop, through comfy midi dresses, delicate floral blouses and even hand-picked vintage pieces to make you feel vacation-ready any time of the year. “When I pick pieces, I always try to think of things that you can wear all year-round but are still very summery,” says Kennedy. “I remember when I lived in Europe, even in January I was wearing flowy sundresses, so you just need to know how to wear it.” We talked to Kennedy about putting together a perfect summer outfit formula using pieces from her shop.
White Lace Cropped Blouse ($46)
First, we start with something that has a hint of romance. A white detailed blouse is a lot of people’s go-to, but this piece is cropped above the waist and has an elastic band to make it more breezy and easier to move in. “The sleeves are very flowy, very easy to move in,” says Kennedy. “The lace detailing at the top really pulled me in, and the bottom of it too because it accentuates your waist.”
Distressed Denim Shorts ($52)
Continuing with the theme of comfort, a pair of stretchy denim shorts that are just a bit distressed offer a dose of edginess to balance out the white top. These mid-waisted jeans provide a snug support around the waist that makes them an effortless piece to throw on. “They’re just very comfortable and easy to wear,” says Kennedy. “Everyone who comes in ends up loving this pair.”
Fuzzy Knitted Cardigan ($45)
Even after the sun goes down, a good summer outing always stretches into the evening, that’s why Kennedy recommends this mustard-colored breathable cardigan that drapes effortlessly onto an outfit and provides a soft, cozy feel. “You can wear it in the summer without feeling too hot,” she says. “It’s just easy to layer with the whole look if you want to cover up a bit more.”
Black Sandals ($19.50)
These pairs of sandals can carry you from a brunch date all the way to the beach with its minimalist design and black color that makes these an easy everyday pick. The simple leather design and braided detailing give you all the comfort of your favorite flip-flops and the classiness of a going-out sandal. “It’s just a super easy sandal to put on really fast,” says Kennedy. “Perfect for getting coffee, going to the beach and going for a walk with friends, plus it’s black and it goes with everything.”
Rainbow Pucka Necklace ($22)
A pop of color is always necessary for a summer look, and this can be easily achieved with an everyday necklace that can go with any outfit combo. This rainbow Pucka necklace from Kennedy’s shop has a beachy vibe with a delicate shell pendant, with some multicolored beads that provide a simple statement. “These are very trendy right now,” says Kennedy. “And I love the little shells on them, it’s very summery and I love the different colors it adds”
Straw Hat ($32)
For a final touch, you can never go wrong with a simple wide-brimmed hat that serves as a practical accessory for shading you from the sun’s rays, as well as pulling together the look with a slight country-inspired flair. Kennedy chose this timeless woven straw hat from her shop as her favorite pick. “I love it since it’s very light, cute and has a simplicity to it,” Kennedy says. “It’s one of those hats that you can wear it with any summer outfit and you’re good to go.”
When You Go: 5957 State Road, Suite 2, Parma, 216-421-6855, abbyandjayboutique.com