6/5/2008 12:00:00 AM
By Megan Elliott
Looking to spice up your wardrobe this summer? We highlight five of this season’s biggest trends and let you know how to avoid a fashion faux pas.
Color – Inject a bit of color into your wardrobe to create an up-to-date look. At Karma Boutique in St. Paul, Minn., owner Jada Breuer is seeing a lot of tunic tops in bright yellow or turquoise. But don’t go overboard with this trend, warns Mary Sheehan Warren, stylist and author of It’s So You: Fitting Fashion to Your Life. “Save trendy colors for things like bags and shoes,” she suggests.
Dresses – Whether maxi or mini, cute, colorful dresses in fun prints are a must-have item. Breuer calls the maxi dress a summer staple, and bohemian looks are still trendy, as are cotton sundresses in floral or ethnic patterns. But make sure you choose a dress style that works with your shape and personality. Not everyone can pull off the long maxi dress or a super-short mini. Warren says skirts with a hemline that hits somewhere around the knee tend to be the most flattering on the widest range of body types.
Handbags – Even if you can’t afford to overhaul your entire closet, investing in a unique bag can help update your look. “It can make an outfit go from blah to fashion forward,” says Warren of a statement bag. Totes and clutches with interesting textures or constructed from alternative materials (like recycled tires) are hot items. To make yourself stand out from the crowd, look for styles from indie designers or shops and avoid the logo-covered “name-brand” bags.
Chunky Jewelry – Accessories are an easy way to bring your wardrobe in line with this season’s trends. “If you are on a budget you can’t go wrong with a big silver cuff or plastic bangles,” says Breuer. If an artsy or bohemian look is more your style, look for Indian-inspired bracelets that inject femininity and sparkle into an outfit.
Gladiator Sandals – The right footwear can help create the perfect summer ensemble. Warren suggests looking for a restrained pair of popular gladiator-style sandals. Not comfortable looking like an extra in Troy? Try Seychelles wedges or Havaianas flip flops, which are big sellers at Karma Boutique.
What are some looks to avoid this summer? Last year’s babydoll craze is on the way out, says Breuer. “By fall that trend should be almost out of sight,” she says. “People are looking for more fitted pieces.” The capri trend is also on its last legs. You don’t have to donate all your old pants to Goodwill, but it’s best to proceed with caution when wearing this summer staple. “The capri is not a dressy look,” explains Warren. “It’s become very pedestrian.” Instead, save this style for casual events and opt for more fashion-forward looks if you’re heading out on the town.
