Perfect Outfit: 5 Hot Picks For A Cool Cocktail Party

Whether it's a garden party at your fave gallery or a housewarming on the patio, you know you've got at least a few outdoor parties lined up in the next few weeks. So skip the worrying about what to wear and take a dressing lesson from today's perfect outfit subject, Lily. A pretty patterned pencil skirt, an effortless semi-sheer blouse, and a few key accessories are absolute no-brainers and will keep you sailing in style all summer long for any festive occasion that may come your way.

Essential # 1: Sleeveless white blouse. Nothing feels as fresh for summer than a crisp white blouse, and this semi-sheer, sleeveless version is as good as it gets. Tuck it into your fave high-waisted shorts and jeans to dress up even your most low-key looks, or pair it with a printed pencil skirt to mimic this perfect outfit.
Alexander Wang T Rib Football Tank, $82, both available at Creatures of Comfort, available at Creatures of Comfort, 7971 Melrose Avenue (at Edinburgh Street); 323-655-7855.

Essential # 2: Patterned pencil skirt. Easy and elegant, without being a snooze-fest, a slim silhouette in an eye-catching print is a fail-proof piece for a warm-weather fête.
Fleurette Pencil Skirt, available at J. Crew, $59, 10250 Santa Monica Boulevard (at Avenue Of The Stars); 310-286-7595.

Essential #3: Wedge heel. This summer essential is the only shoe you'll need to raise your style to new heights. We love a wedge with some substantial straps in black or nude for every occasion.
Slow And Steady Wins The Race heels, $115, available at Opening Ceremony, 451 North La Cienega Boulevard (at Rosewood Avenue); 310-652-1120.

Essential #4: Mismatched mani/pedi. While some think it's ladylike to have coordinating nails and toes, we are all about the clash. Lily's metallic pedicure and pastel pink nails are anything but matchy-matchy, just the way we like it.
Deborah Lippman My Romance Nail Polish, $16, available at Barneys NY, 9570 Wilshire Boulevard (at South Peck Drive); 310.276.4400.

Essential #5: Unfussy bracelets. Pare down your jewelry look with a strong metallic bracelet or two, like this petit Phillip Crangi railroad spike. It makes a killer statement and goes with everything.
Giles and Brother Skinny Railroad Spike Bracelet, $55, available at Barneys NY, 9570 Wilshire Boulevard (at South Peck Drive); 310.276.4400.