On a Wednesday in July, when Chicago issued a heat advisory that could practically melt sidewalk chalk, this cool stay-at-home city mom embraced summer survival in denim shorts, a navy tee, and her go-to sneakers—with a little sparkle courtesy of her gold hoops, signature herringbone chain, graduated rope necklace, and ever-growing stack of permanent bracelets. The day began with a telehealth appointment before they braved the heat (and the sunblock battle) for music class, where Miles joyfully swirled scarves to the beat with his toddler crew. An impromptu lunch with mom friends and their littles turned into a much-needed midday laugh fest, followed by a quick stop to shop before heading home for naptime grading and, let’s be honest, a desperately needed shower—because nothing says summer quite like sweating through your necklaces before noon. All in time to gear up for a breezy Friend of a Mom dinner later that evening.