Let’s face it. Very few of us are models and fewer still have an unlimited amount of cash to spend on building a new wardrobe each season. That’s why we’re giving you the REAL DEAL on the top 10 trends for this summer. We’re not kidding about this – we’ve searched high and low to find out what 10 items or looks all you fashionistas-in-training should be concentrating on this summer. Stick with our advice, and you’ll be right en-trend!
No. 1: Just-right Jeans
The first thing you need to do to build a solid foundation for your wardrobe this summer is to find yourself the perfect pair of jeans. Darker denim is a classic that you can’t really go wrong with, but lighter blues are perfectly acceptable as well. In fact, we’ve read that faded fabrics that have a distinctive, vintage look to them are all the rage right now and that nothing beats an old, beat-up pair of jeans for summer ’09. Whatever you decide, the important thing is to choose a shade, style and size you love, that feels comfortable and makes you look rockin’! You’ll likely be wearing these jeans a lot, so make sure to get something you like that makes you feel good about yourself.
No. 2: Big On Belts
One thing’s for sure: you’ll need a belt to go with those cool jeans. Again, the style, size and color are up to you, but choose one that fits you properly and can be paired with clothing other than pants (the belt around a dress look is still going strong). For 2009, bright colors like (the hottest shade of the year) yellow, red, aqua blue, bubblegum pink, lime green and bright white are big in belts, but the most important thing is that you love it and feel comfortable wearing it. You may also want to leave those ultra-wide belts behind – the skinny on this season’s belt is – SKINNY!
No. 3: Sub Skirts For Shorts
A skirt will instantly up your summer style to the maximum factor. Mini skirts are, literally, a cool choice for hot weather but if you feel uncomfortable wearing something so short, go for knee-length or a looser, shorter version of last year’s peasant-style skirts (somehow, an itty-bitty mini is easier to pull off when it’s ruffled and has a looser fit). Denim is classic when it comes to skirts, and can be dressed down or up. If you’re tired of the blues, go for white denim, which looks a lot more glam.
No. 4: Foot Wear
You’re gonna need to right footwear if you plan to pull off that mini-skirt look. We know, cheapie flip flops are comfy and fun, but some outfits require more from your feet than a flimsy foam thong. Pass on the heels and go for a flat open- or closed-toe sandal or, if you’re simply stiletto obsessed, try a pair of wedge sandals on for size. Our final recommendation in the shoe department is the espadrille – nothing screams summer louder. Flat or wedged, espadrilles are casual and hip at the same time and work with everything from a swimsuit to a flirty skirt.
No. 5: Pump Up The Pattern
For a twist on shorts (which no doubt you’ll be wearing plenty of this summer) go for super-short or just above the knee – those old mid-thigh-length numbers are outdated now. And instead of basic denim or ho-hum khaki, patterned is the way to go. We love preppy materials like plaid and seersucker and the cargo trend has officially been passed on to short-shorts (from capris), which are decked out with pockets. Shorts that come with a tie around the waste (and through the belt loops) are very vogue au current.
No. 6: Accessorize Away
We’ve already mentioned belts, but when it comes to jewelry the important thing to remember is, for summer, stick with one piece only at a time. Having said that, basic silver and gold pieces go with just about anything – gold is especially gaining popularity this year, as is the trend of wearing your birthstone. To keep the sun out of your eyes, the bigger the shades the better.
No. 7: Let’s Be Sheer About This
The fact is, stylish fabrics this summer are sheer and barely there. But you don’t want to send out the wrong impression with your clothes, so follow this trend cautiously. Sheer summer dresses aren’t see-through, for example – rather, they’ve got several sheer layers for a breezy look that still leaves a lot to the imagination.
No. 8: The Writing’s On The Shirt
Tops that tell a story are totally hot this summer. Look for shirts and tees with words on them. We especially love the ones that have IM lingo on them, like LOL or BRB in bold lettering. Great big graphic prints are also so in style – big bold prints and pics that make your clothing look sort of like living art.
<No. 9: Shoulder Show
Michelle Obama did it at her husband’s presidential inauguration. So did the star of the award-winning film, Slumdog Millionaire, on Oscar night. The off-the-shoulder look is hot, and it works on everything from tops to tank to dresses. You can bare one shoulder or both depending on your comfort level. Add some shimmer powder to your shoulders to glam things up for a hot night out.
No. 10: Hello Yellow … And Blue
Every season’s got its IT color, and this summer IT is yellow. Crayon-bright is the way to go with this hue, whether you’re wearing it in a dress, top or swimsuit. And right on yellow’s heels is blue – we’re talking turquoise people!
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