Los Angeles - June 28, 2006

Oh, My Darling

Clementyne Clothing

The heat has proved a worthy opponent.

Just when you think you’ve conquered it with a barely-there cotton shift and flip-flops, you realize you need a bag. And the thought of one extra fiber touching your skin (even the butteriest of buttery leather) is enough to melt your triumph.

That’s when you remember: Clementyne’s dresses have pockets. Smart side slits on ideal Dolly and Rope dresses are roomy enough to stealthily stash your essentials. Patch pockets on the Vintage (j’adore the contrasting patterns and trim) and Silk numbers were placed with both performance and perception in mind (as in, you can tote a bottle of Advil on one side and your wallet in the other without looking like you’ve got saddle bags).

Each style comes in at least two colors and patterns; there are also jumpers, shorts, and high-waisted pants. So declaring the line your high-fashion, high-function, 75-degrees-and-over uniform could be the secret to showing summer who’s boss.

And proof that you can definitely take the heat.

Available  at Sienna, 8908 Melrose Avenue, between Robertson Boulevard and Almont Drive, West Hollywood (310-550-8355); Sirens and Sailors, 1102 Mohawk Street, at Sunset Boulevard, Echo Park (213-483-5423).