This summer, I think most Chicagoans feel the same way I do – cheated – because all we get is four months of warm weather and then before we know it, it will be back to boots, layered knits and cozy scarves in negative degree weather.

If you guessed lace-up sandals, fringe bucket bag, or mismatched earrings as the must-have summer accessory, you’re wrong… if you live in Chicago, that is.  That’s because summer as we once knew can now be considered monsoon season.  This summer, I think most Chicagoans feel the same way I do – cheated – because all we get is four months of warm weather and then before we know it, it will be back to boots, layered knits and cozy scarves in negative degree weather.  My summer clothes have barely gotten any face time outside of the closet while pre-fall collections are already landing in stores.  However, there is one accessory that I’ve been able to count on this summer: my umbrella. 

As someone who has a finite amount of money to dedicate to my wardrobe each month, an umbrella is rarely considered a priority on that list.  So, my umbrella collection total is ONE.  It’s a navy and white print from J Crew and I got it when my other umbrella broke one day while it was pouring out.  It was the only one left in the store and I bought it.  I didn’t think too much of it.  I figured it’s pretty neutral so no matter what I’m wearing, it will work.  What I didn’t consider was the possibility of six rainy days a week for Two. Whole. Months.  Totally depressed as the summer countdown continues to fall, my day to day look has largely consisted of a pair of jeans with a grey, black or white tee, my white Converse sneakers and my raincoat.  I need something to break up the monotony.

In order to capture the many moods I experience as it continues to rain on our parade, I’m beginning to think my umbrella collection might just need to grow…