Ah… it’s almost here. Lazy days, sea breezes, and the hottest temperatures of the year. It’s almost summer!
And with the predictable change of the seasons comes the new trends in the fashion world.
Here’s what’s coming, and how you can incorporate it to fit your body… and your budget.
The Belt as Centerpiece
While clothes are loose and flowing – and colors are for the most part very natural, like soft gray and seafoam green – the belt is the true standout of the season.
Because of the drapey, blousy look, belts are many times the defining element of the entire outfit this summer.
The great news is that just about anyone can wear one, drawing attention to the leanest part of the body – and away from the rest.
If you dare, you can go colorful and chunky – even animal print. Overall, the unique, big belted look is reminiscent of the 80s, just like the next trend.
Abstract Prints
The ephemeral flowered prints are still there, yes, but abstract is back – in a big way! And even better than before, in bold colors like red and yellow.
The wonderful quality of abstract prints is that the eye is more likely to focus on the print, not on the body underneath – good for all of us who have one or two parts we’d like to de-emphasize – without, of course, looking like we are trying to hide anything.
Wear the right abstract print sundress and you manage to look current and put together while hide figure flaws – all at the same time!
Viva the abstract!
Lingerie as Clothing
Talk about emphasizing the good parts… lingerie-wear is back and better than ever before!
Pair a camisole with a military jacket (the military look is still very current), and you’ve combined two of the top summer trends… and managed to look great as well.
Now, if you are bold – and have the body to match – you can opt for the lingerie-wear on the bottom half also, a la short and silky – even embroidered and lace-edged – in shorts or skirts.
For the most confident among us, there are even bustiers and see-through options that leave little to the imagination.
Just don’t go overboard! A structured jacket goes a long way to keeping you from looking like you belong in the bedroom while you’re out and about.
Metallic Silver Night Wear
If you have to go to a fancy cocktail party or out on the town, a silver dress is all the rage right now. And it’s a color that looks good on just about everyone!
It’s all about the boots…
You might just get more wear out of those winter boots. Several high-profile celebrities have been spotted with their ankle booties worn with shorts and sundresses. Some – even with knee-highs!
It definitely puts a new twist on the summer’s classic sundress and short wear!
One Piece
Say hello to one-pieces again! Jumpsuits, rompers, and tunics are perfect for summertime living. Dressing doesn’t get easier than this!
Safari – with a Twist
The safari look is here for the summer – but with a twist. It’s a little dressier than what you would actually wear to hunt lions.
Use a silver belt and jewelry to up the glam factor of your summer safari look.
The Shortest of the Short
This is not for the faint of heart. Call them hot pants, daisy dukes, short shorts – whatever. They are back with a vengeance!
There is a great variety of textures, fabrics and silhouettes – from the flouncy to the tight fitting – but it’s all short!
And this time, length-challenged clothing is not limited to shorts, though – our skirts are going short, short too.
To get your legs ready, consider self-tanning lotions – perhaps even leg makeup. And it goes without saying you’ll want to tone up – make sure to work in a daily walk or jog before it’s too late.
Of course, if you’re just not up to the short shorts (and how many of us truly are?) you can always pair your old capris with a safari top – looking current yet not too revealing.
Or take advantage of the ripped jeans trend (yes, that’s back, too) – with holes strategically placed.
Remember this: It’s not fashionable if it doesn’t look good on you. When it comes to clothing, just as in life – common sense should be your guide.
Overheard Thoughts