Summer Gold.

What color better embodies summer than gold? From tans to highlights to sunshine, gold represents the season.

I used to be a silver person (so stupid that we paint ourselves into a one color-combo-corner, right?), but in recent years have expanded my metallic love to include gold. My favorite way is with accessories (and perhaps a nod here and there to golden makeup):

1. Kenneth Jay Lane Gold Hammered Teardrop earrings ($45)
2. Nars Shimmer eyeshadow in Shimmer ($23)
3. Kyler by Joy O Anode Reverse Pendant earrings ($88)
4. Kate Spade Lawn Party Half Circle tote ($295)
5. LK Bennett Carmela Lattice Wedge sandals ($250)
6. Dorothy Perkins gold stretch bangles ($20)
7. Kate Spade Swoosie sandals ($149)
8. Deboroah Lippmann nail polish in Boom Boom Pow ($20)

Gold jewelry gets it done. A demure pair of teardrops (1) or bolder pendant earrings (3) paired with a stack of bangles (6) will be stunning paired with a bright summer color (think turquoise, coral or white).

A gold shoe is another option, just make sure to keep it either a) low/flat or b) with a summery twist, like an espadrille. (A bright gold platform pump with a 7-inch heel doesn’t feel like summer, it feels like stripper– am I right?) These flats from Kate Spade are fun (4); the embellishment at the ankle jazzes them up a bit. A wedge is another option, and this version from LK Bennett (5) screams summer with a straw espadrille bottom. Would be amazing with a white cotton dress, yes? (PS- LK Bennett is a fav brand of our girlcrush Kate Middleton.)

Consider adding a gold bag to your arsenal. Straight-up gold leather might come off cheap, but adding in a little straw or canvas to the mix gives off a better vibe (4). It makes things more Upscale Beach Resort and less I Bought This at a Tacky Ass Carnival. Another great place to go gold– your beach bag. Perfect!

Finally, get in the summer spirit with a swipe of gold shadow (2) or some fun gold glitter polish (8). Go easy on the shadow; a little goes a long way. Try the polish alone, or layered over a colored polish (red, anyone?).

Is gold your thing? How do you incorporate it into your wardrobe?