5 Summer Trends You Can Rock with Confidence

Do you ever just stand in front of your closet thinking, "I have nothing to wear?" If so, you certainly aren't alone. Part of that problem can be solved with a good Closet Edit and some guidance on what's in there in the first place and, of course, how to style it. But, even in the best of times, we can hit a rut. That's when a little inspiration can make all the difference. As a personal stylist, it's all about balancing current styles with functionality for every woman. We're all different and therefore we shouldn't all be rocking the same outfit. Below is a list of some of the current trends. Take one that appeals to you and integrate it into your authentic personal style. Not sure how? I can help. Right now, let's get to those trends!

5 Summer Trends Just For You.

1. The Doily Dress.

It's frilly. It's white. It's all you. Well, it either all you or definitely not all you. Specifically, it can be lace, have eyelets, embroidery, anything that grandma would love. Personally, I have always adored a great white cotton or crochet dress. Make sure to balance the girly aspects of this piece with a more sophisticated or edgy counterpart, depending on your personal style. Remember, if everything you are wearing seems especially young, you suddenly look old (which you are not). For a tailored approach, style with a blazer. The edgy woman brings a leather vest or jacket into the mix. The unconventional look involves flatform shoes. You get the idea. And, this look is not just for summer. Rock your delicate dress with opaque black tights in colder weather to seal the deal. 

2. The 70's Bowed Collar Continues.

I've been talking about this for some time, but it is worth repeating. The tie collar continues to be a timeless and feminine staple in your closet. If you watch Madame Secretary, you see Tea Leoni rock these on the daily. Portia de Rossi's character on Scandal looks smashing in a tie neck blouse with super wide leg pants (my favorite look of the moment). I especially love a long sleeved version as it's just right for the in between weather. No need for a jacket or cardigan. If you are interested in the history of this style of top, which is fascinating, might I add, check out this article from Jezebel. And if you question my commitment to this look, you can see how I styled it in the Poplin video. 

3. Frayed Denim.

Now this is a look that isn't for everyone. So again, be true to who you are. However, I'd also suggest that you open your mind to the options as frayed denim comes in many varieties. Right now there's a wide range of jeans with frayed hems. I have always loved this look because it allows you to hem your jeans to the perfect length without engaging a tailor. Some brands even suggest you take this approach. Otherwise, you'll see frayed edges on tops, jackets and shorts. Pair any frayed pieces with a more tailored option to communicate that you are on trend and still very put together. Alternatively, frayed pieces with flowy options sends a more bohemian message. Be sure you love this look before you invest a large sum in a pair of premium denim jeans. If you are simply experimenting, try something less expensive or a more affordable piece, like a pair of shorts.

4. Off the Shoulder Tops.

Personally, I'm totally obsessed with this look. As a woman with a triangle shaped figure, off the shoulder tops are a dream. That being said, if you have more of an inverted triangle body shape (your shoulders are wider than your hips), this look isn't going to do you any favors. So, if you are dying to try it, make sure you pair your off the shoulder top with wide leg pants or an a-line skirt. 

Clearly, an off the shoulder option isn't going to work for the office. But, it's lovely for Sunday BBQ's and visits to the Farmer's Market. You'll likely find that a vest with wide arm holes will be the easiest option for layering. Ideally, you'll rock this look when you don't need a sweater or jacket. I vote for a trip to Zara or H&M if you want to experiment with this. It's SO fun to elevate a simple and comfortable summer look with this of the moment trend.

5. Wide leg pants. 

Yes, I've been raving about culottes and wide leg pants for the last couple of years. But, I really can't say enough about the benefits of this look. A high waisted pair minimizes your stomach and empowers you to wear a crop top. Wide leg pants are a stark contrast to the skinnies we've been accustomed to for years now, and it's a fresh response to that trend. Plus, they work well for work or play and can be dressed up or down. Try them with a skinny heel for a more sophisticated look or a block heel for something functional and stylish. Bam!

And there you have it. Now you have some tools when you hit the stores during your lunch hour. Let me know how it goes!

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