4 Summer Must-Haves

Summer is here, and aside from just wanting to stay cool, the change in seasons inevitably forces us to shop.  Or at least, that's what I tell my fiance' when I need a wardrobe update (and you can totally use that one too, just don't tell anyone, ok?)  

 

Of course, if you have to shop (bless your little heart) then at the very least it makes sense to pay attention to what is on-trend this season - you know, since you're going out anyway.

 

Lucky for you, since you're on the way to the mall and you've just googled something like "Summer 2012 trends" I've put together a quick reference guide - 4 things you pretty much have to have if you're going to make it through this summer.

 

Oh, and I've gotta warn you - it looks a lot like the 80's.  

 

 

 

1.  High-Low hem skirt or dress.  Formerly called the "fishtail skirt" or even a "mullet skirt" - these dresses are making a comeback.  Unlike a mullet which is business in the front, party in the back ... this hemline is more like business in the back, party in the front.  Either way, I think these look super-chic and perfect for summer.  

 

Splurge:  Gryphon 'Dip Dye' Silk Dress

Save: This entire category of high-low hem dresses from Forever 21

 

 

2.  Neon.  Wear it on your nails, on your clothes, on your shoes, but dig up those fluorescents because this summer they are super hot.  Just like in the 80's  - you've got to dig down deep and pull out some confidence to pull this off - and yes, it's likely that you will look back at photos in 10 years and cringe.  But hey, that's what fashion is for, right?  Right.  

 

Splurge:  Mason sleeveless blouse (above left)

 

Save:  Glow in the Dark Neon Lights Nail Polish  (above, bottom right)

 

 

3.  Scalloped Shorts.  Have you never been quite able to buy into the whole stilettos and shorts thing?  Well, now you can - because these shorts are just dying to be dressed up and taken out on the town.  Go subtle with a neutral color, or choose to be bold and go with a bright hue.  The world is your scallop.  (Get it?  Instead of 'oyster'?  A little fashion humor there for you.)

 

Splurge:  J. Crew Scalloped Short (above, left)

 

Save:  Free People Scalloped Lace Shorts (above, bottom right)

 

 

4.  Lace. Who knew knitting could be in - but it seems that lace has made a comeback (Thank you Kate Middleton)!  Much like neon, it can really be anywhere - shoes, shorts, pants, etc.  My personal favorite is a cream lace top paired with a colorful pants or shorts with some fun jewelry.  Long live lace!

 

Splurge:  Beyond Vintage Zig Zag Lace Tee  (above, left)

 

Save:  Eliza Lace Tank (above, center)

 

What trends are you seeing this summer?  What pieces are you dying to get your hands on?