[Chelsae Anne Photography]

Top: Ann Taylor LOFT $49.50 (before sale)/Shorts: H&M (old)/Sandals: JustFab $39.99/Clutch: Nine West $29.50/Earrings: H&M $9.95

Have a couple neutral threads hanging around your closet? If so, you’ve got the framework to construct a neutral ensemble. This look can be very fresh and summery, and also sophisticated if rocked the right way.

Don’t know where to start with this whole neutral thing? Start by choosing a color that looks good against your skin tone. If you’re fair, try wearing bright whites, grays and blacks. If you’re medium, pull it off with creams, khakis and browns and if you’re complexion is darker, select soft whites and navy blues.

Next, be sure to contrast your textures – for an example, I like how this linen eyelet top with embellished details works nicely against the lace pattern of my shorts. And when accessorizing, select one of two pieces and try to keep them neutral too, like white earrings or a clutch with a wooden detail.

Pull it all together by throwing in a pair of sandals to inject some fun and personality, making the combo perfect for a late, afternoon lunch – just whatever you do, don’t order a cosmo.

Xo, Stephanie