Lemondrop

Ah, summer -- time for pool parties, road trips and, of course, lightweight, breezy summer dresses. Our friend Alyse -- the editor of fashion blog sporkfashion.com -- loves this adorable hand-printed dress from Harrilu, but isn't sure how to dress it up. So she asked Lemondrop's fashion expert Brian for help.

Brian says: "This cotton dress is perfect for summer. You can throw it on with a pair of sandals and be out the door in minutes, or add some interesting contrast by wearing it under a fitted blazer in a bright color. Finish off the look with some fun statement jewelry in gold to help make the white obi-style belt really pop."

Click here to see Brian's picks after the jump.

A summer-weight blazer like this one by BI LA LI is a great layering piece for July and August. The punchy yellow color will really help the cool turquoise of this dress to stand out, and the short sleeves mean you won't roast like a shish kebab on the grill.

Instead of your basic strappy sandal, try a pair that's a little bad-girl to give this cutesy dress some edgy appeal. I like these sky-high sandals by Chinese Laundry because they've got a cork platform, a braided T-strap and eye-catching metallic hardware.

A single oversize bangle like this one by Charlotte Russe will add just enough interest without detracting from the screen printing on the dress.

Top off your look with a pair of delicate filigree earrings like these from Yochi. The tiny turquoise beads will echo the color of the dress.

Brian Underwood is a fashion and beauty writer living in New York City.

Alyse Wax is the Editor in Chief of sporkfashion.com. The site features profiles on emerging designers, stories on new eco-friendly brands, and loads of other style-related news bits.