Here's how to make them everyday wearable.
Maxi Dress
Feeling like the maxi dress is a little played out? Sorry, the trend is still going strong this summer. Neiman Marcus' Cusp Web site even has an entire section devoted to maxis. Still, as ubiquitous as they have been, there is no denying that maxi dresses are comfortable and can work well on many body types.
Petite women often shy away from the length of the dress, but by sticking with a light fabric, solid colors, and minimal volume, the maxi can be extremely flattering, says Tobi Stylist Manager Kierra Box. Keep accessories minimal and footwear simple so as to avoid entering Mrs. Roper, a la Three's Company, territory. In other words, avoid pairing with six-inch platforms or overly chunky jewelry.
Jumpers
A fun alternative to the maxi, is a one-piece romper - another nod to the '80s. Not sure how to approach a one-piece pant or short ensemble? Petite women can opt for a shorter romper as opposed to a full-length or Capri jumpsuit, said New York City stylist, Julie Greene during an April 23 interview. It will make your legs look longer and is a fun, sexy look for summer.
Full-figured women can add a belt to "define their silhouette" and boyish figures can try one with ruffles for a "dose of feminine curves," she adds. Wear with wedges for a day look or round-toe stacked heels for a chic evening look.
Gladiators
Gladiator sandals hit the scene a couple of summers back. Magazines showcased the Olsen twins wearing up-to-the-knee strappy numbers, literally conjuring up Roman gladiator scenes. For everyday wear, though, think more subtle like a flat low-ankle version.
Nine West's Macee sandal or Matt Berson's KM gladiator on Shop Bop fit the bill. For more drama is Sergio Rossi's Python Gladiator with a nearly four-inch heel. The beauty of the gladiator is it automatically ups the chic factor when paired with the simplest tank dress or cuffed jeans and a t-shirt.
Washed-Out Denim
The denim wave crests this summer in pale, washed-out jeans. Whether it's a boyfriend jean, cuffed Capri, bell bottoms, or a simple straight-leg, think holes, abrasions, and tears.
Old Navy does a recession-proof distressed boot cut for under $40 while Prps does the Barracuda Boyfriend Jeans for $434 on Shop Bop. A fun way to play with distressed denim is to pair with a sexy, feminine top and heels or sandals. Keep the top simple and sophisticated, though. Leave the graphic tees to the 'tween set.
Bright Accessories
This season's accessories are popping with bright reds, yellows, pinks, and blues. They are an easy way to give outfits, especially dark ones, a "modern dramatic spin," says Net-a-Porter in its Style Report. Jeffrey Campbell's vice sandal comes in a ravishing coral and aqua. Or, try a yellow clutch, like Michael Kors' patent leather one, to brighten up and make new a favorite LBD.
Tribal and Ethnic
Designers have gone global, borrowing from Asia, Africa, South America and more. From chunky wood bangles to embroidered tunics to South American colors, this trend is easy to access for everyday wear. For a vibrant yet sophisticated look, stick to one ethnic-inspired piece per outfit; mixing too many prints, large pieces of jewelry, and dramatic footwear can result in a costume-y effect.
Try C. Keer's Pixel Storm Tank - with its Native American-inspired print - at Anthroplogie. Pair with dark straight-leg jeans and neutral wedges for a young, modern look.
Sometimes fashion can appear inaccessible on the runway or in magazines. The key, though, is to pull seasonal trends and mix them with timeless, classic pieces. The result is a modern style that is decidedly sophisticated and grown up.
Rosana Vollmerhausen - Rosana Vollmerhausen's decade-long writing career is comprised of reporting, writing and editing for daily newspapers, weekly industry ...
