Although we’re still in a global pancetta (add that to the pandemic nickname list), we can console ourselves with the fact that vaccines are available, the weather still allows for outside activities, and we can dress up a bit fancier than our usual athleisure.
As we step into August, the last full month of summer, we are looking forward to embracing this freedom, alongside upcoming biopics, must-have sustainable handbags, and innovative ways to wear face masks.
Ahead, some of what the R29 style team is looking forward to this month.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Miaou’s fall ’21
“Technically, Miaou launched its fall ’21 collection on July 22. But I know that, personally, I’ll still be thinking about it well into August. Included in the Instagram-favorite brand’s new drop are corsets — a major trend in 2021 — as well as halter-neck going-out tops and vegan leather low-rise pants that look straight off Christina Aguilera circa 2003.” – Eliza Huber, Fashion Writer
Thrifting in Puerto Rico
“I’m celebrating my birthday month at home in Puerto Rico. Every time I go back, I spend a lot of time visiting local vintage and thrift stores that have incredible gems. Some of my favorites are Electroshock, Lentejuela Vintage, and Hola Aida. Thrifting still has some taboos in Puerto Rico, but there is a really strong generation of curators, shoppers, and entrepreneurs breaking those barriers.” – Frances Solá-Santiago, Fashion Writer
Sarah Flint Mask-Scarf Hybrid
“Thanks to its stunning print, I was a fan of this Sarah Flint mask-scarf as soon as I saw it. But it wasn’t until a recent vacation that I found how useful this hybrid is when you’re on the go. Made from washable silk, the piece is easy enough to wear all day as a scarf, but can quickly be turned into a mask (with a metal nose piece and a filter pocket) using adjustable ear loops, making it perfect for when you’re going in and out of indoor spaces.” – Irina Grechko, Fashion Director
The Mob Studios
“I think TheMob is one of the most exciting and innovative fashion designers in Puerto Rico right now. They take trending pieces that are everywhere and reinvent them into brand-new styles that look unlike any other. The only reason I haven’t bought anything yet from the brand is because I can’t choose what to get first, but I definitely will this month!” — Mercedes Viera, Associate Deals Writer
Respect
“Respect, the forthcoming Aretha Franklin biopic starring Jennifer Hudson, arrives in theatres on August 13 and includes a slew of show-stopping ensembles. As the film progresses through Franklin’s life and career, it also showcases her style as it changes, from classic in the early ’60s to bold and extravagant in the ’70s. Especially noteworthy are her performance looks, including the two white dresses from her Madison Square Garden and L’Olympia shows in 1968.” — EH Photo: Fred A. Sabine/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images.
Santos By Mónica Bag
“For the past few months, I’ve tried to invest in high-quality bags that won’t empty my wallet. So this month I’m set on getting my hands on the Santos By Mónica Agave Triangular Tote — made from cactus leather — as a birthday gift for myself (could I be any more Leo?). They are almost always sold-out, but I’m a woman on a mission.” — FSS
“Only slightly style-related, I recently chopped most of my hair right off. It was very spur-of-the-moment, but I felt like I’ve been feeling it for a while. I got it done in the Hairrari in Williamsburg, a gender-neutral barbershop of my dreams. For me, hair plays a major part in my outfits and how they come across. Let’s just say I’ve never felt more myself! I’m so excited to continue to explore how old and new outfits go with my new hair.” — MV
Making The Cut Season 2
“Making The Cut — Amazon’s designer competition, hosted by Project Runway’s Tim Gunn and Heidi Klum — is back for its second season with a really impressive set of designers. Since its premiere on July 16, I’ve already selected some favorites: Andrea Pitter, Andrea Salazar, and Gary Graham. This season, designers are challenged to create garments that would fit a global brand — one they’ll have a chance to build with a grand prize of $1 million — with the added obstacle of a post-pandemic economy.” — FSSPhoto: Courtesy of Amazon.
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