Summer Staple: The Maxidress

For Ann-Marie Joseph, a 39-year-old flight attendant, wardrobe versatility is a must: "I can go from mild weather to 90 degrees. My clothing needs to be flexible." A chiffon caftan is exactly that when worn under a cowlneck sweater in a similar shade. "There's an excitement when summer lingers. I can take that feeling all the way to November," says Joseph.

Sweater, Autumn Cashmere, $300, Lester's, Brooklyn; 718-375-7337. Caftan, Diane von Furstenberg, $325; IntermixOnline.com for stores. Belt, $80; KarenWalker.com. Shoes, $450; ToryBurch.com

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