SOPHIE SUMMER MUSE

TESSA

Welcome to our SOPHIE Summer muse series where we connect with creative women who inspire us. 

Next in our series is writer, magazine editor and masters student, Tessa Patrick. 

We asked Tessa about summer & summer dressing. Read her words below. x 

"For me, summer months have always meant a retreat from the city. It’s a ritualistic experience at home in the South Island, plunging into the fresh and open ocean, and long and languid nights are spent eating and drinking with family and friends. Throughout these months, my wardrobe almost feels like escapism. I look for long skirts and soft silhouettes that are easy to slip on over swimwear, taking me from the beach to the bar, and everywhere in between. And I let my hazy days steer me away from the blacks and greys and denims I rely on throughout the year; white lends a certain sense of whimsy for the summer months.

When I think about seasonal accessories, they must serve a purpose, but they also need to be fun, too—it’s a delicate balance of form and function. A slender silver stacker earring is durable and endlessly chic for all occasions, and the likelihood of it disappearing on an ocean swim is next to none. And then a cute hat is always necessary too; I lather myself in SPF, but you can never be too careful. Fun patterns and textures like crochet lend a certain carefree charm to any look, but the neutral colours have earned this new summer favourite hat a permanent place in my closet.

Beyond trends and fleeting moments, I think summer fashion should serve a purpose—it should encourage you to live each moment as you intended it. That's what I’ve been doing with my favourite Sophie pieces this summer."