Friday, June 28, 2013

Fashion Friday: Summer Style

With summer just around the corner (or already here, for anyone who doesn't live in the Pacific NW) I've been keeping my eyes peeled for the perfect summer pieces to add to my wardrobe.  Now I'll be the first to admit that summer trends don't tend to be my favorite.  Crop tops and micro shorts have never exactly been flattering to my figure.  And it can definitely be a challenge to look chic and pulled-together with sweat dripping down your face, taking your make up right on with it.  So how do you pull off a fashionable look without exposing every square inch of your body?  Well here's MY favorite summer trends and how to make it work for you.

What screams summer more than an electric burst of color?  And while those mini neon shorts may not be the most flattering on those curvy thighs that haven't seen the light of day in just about a year, that doesn't mean you need to write it off as not for you.  There are plenty of ways to pull of neon without blinding your neighbors.

This color block top, for example, gives a great shot of neon all while balancing it out with neutral tones on the back.  The basic tee can be paired with about anything and the neon clutch is the perfect accessory.

Source
Which brings me to my next example...  A great way to pull of neon is in your accessories.  A clutch, a pair of shoes, a stack of bracelets, or a killer pair of sunnies is a great way to go.  I'm not gonna lie - I've been obsessed with chain bracelets for quite some time now.  But once they started popping up in all shades neon my obsession grew exponentially!

Source

I'm not sure there's a woman in the world complaining about the maxi trend right now...and let me tell you why.  They are mostly made of comfortable, lightweight fabrics that are breathable and airy for those hot summer days.  They are long (hence the name) and hide the legs on the off chance you forgot to shave.  You can dress them up or dress them down and even layer them come fall for a great seasonal transition.  Like I said...what's not to love?

Source
This lilac stunner could be dressed up for an evening out or dressed down for errands around town just by switching up your accessories, make up, and hair.  I love nothing more than pieces that can transition from day to night seamlessly.

Everything about lace is so feminine, I'm sure there's no surprise that this trend is screaming my name.  And why wouldn't it?  It's so easy to layer now and come fall it seems silly not to invest (in my humble opinion).  Whether you're wearing a soft-spoken summer dress, keeping it cool and classy with some chic shorts, or a layering a boxy-shaped number to top off a maxi....I just feel like there is something here to offer for everyone.

Source
Source
These southwestern prints have been popping up everywhere, and I have to admit at first I wasn't so sure.  But the more I see them the more smitten I am and now I kind of want to add it to my collection.  Whether in a simple fitted skirt or a trendy tee, this seems like an easy one for anyone to pull off, especially now in these soft color palettes.

Source

Source
If you follow me on Instagram you may have had a sneak peek into my obsession of black and white prints, both on myself and Cocoa.  From stripes to chevron and every angle in between, bold is making a comeback in a big way.  Especially when paired with neons or pastels, I think it is absolutely perfect for the summer months!  

Source

Source
When shopping, just be sure look for lightweight, season-appropriate fabrics to pair with your existing wardrobe staples and you will do just fine!

Not everyone is going to like this trend and that's okay.  (Because for the record, just because something is in style does not mean you have to wear it.  Be original - that's the real trend!)  But the good news is that if you DO like palazzo pants, you can go for the look with confidence.  These are easy to style, uber comfortable, and a very forgiving silhouette.  What can be better than that?  I'm currently obsessed with this specific pair.....

Source
Source
Pair them with a basic tee or cardigan and BAM!  Just like that you have  killer style with incredible comfort to boot.  To dress it up simply pair it with some heels and rock out on the accessories.

Get your mind out of the gutter....I'm not talking about walking around in your birthday suit y'all!  I'm talking about the neutral color palette that's so in right now.  Whether you are going for the monochromatic look or simply balancing out a brightly colored ensemble (like that neon trend I'm oh-so-fond of), nude is the way to go!  The trick is finding the right shade for your skin tone.  But don't be shy - just go and try them on!  And if you're not sure, grab some advice of a sales clerk or a trusted friend.

Source
Still sound too scary?  No fear...you know that nude shoes go with ANYTHING, right?!?  But if you're still feeling hesitant to really dive into the trend, you can test it out with simple nude-toned nails - it's that simple!

So there you go - seven easy trends YOU can rock this summer!  Just don't forget, the key to pulling off any style is confidence.  You are beautiful exactly the way God made you - so don't you forget that!

And as for that dripping makeup??  Add a little primer to your morning routine and embrace the dewey look!  After all, it's summer and no one's judging you.


Photobucket

No comments: