Summer 2011 offers a trend of fashion forward outfits for everyone. For the jetsetter and adventurer, there is the exotic look. Those headed out to the Hamptons for a summer of sailing should consider going prep this summer. If you're looking to strike up a summer romance, the flirty trend is for you. And for those of you who find yourselves stuck in the 70s, fear no more. They're back and hotter than ever this summer. This variety guarantees you a stylish summer, regardless of how you identify yourself.
Exotic
Summer invariably evokes thoughts of far-away destinations. Whether or not you have the time to take a vacation to an exotic location, you can still dress the part. Printed shorts were on the trend rise last summer and are huge this year. The Cody Printed Short by Myne have a tie waist and loose fit. They are adorned with a chevron print that is undeniably tribal. Paired with a solid tank and strappy sandals, these shorts can be worn casually. However, you may also dress them up with chunkier wooden wedge shoes and a pretty camisole.
Preppy
The preppy look is always popular during the summer. Boating and sailing beckon a certain style and are two well-practiced warm weather activities. If you find yourself on a boat or simply longing to be, this trend is for you. Seersucker is a great way to look preppy and keep cool in the summer. J. Crew’s Minnie pant in seersucker is made of the perfect lightweight material for a hot day. The vertical blue and white stripes give the pant its quintessential seersucker appeal, while an ankle zipper adds some edge. A white blouse, such as an oxford or a camisole, is an appropriate complement to these bottoms. However, to give this look a little more bite, a brightly colored top can be paired with the pants.
Flirty
No matter what anyone says, the hotter seasons are when romance begins to bloom. Spring Fever translates beautifully into flirtatious wardrobe pieces. Lace is an especially girly fabric and is very popular on racks this season. The Lacey Boxy Crop Tee by Free People is, without a doubt, a top for a night out. This blouse can be worn with high waisted shorts or a fitted pencil-style skirt for the best effect.
Funky
The 70s are back with a vengeance this summer. Especially indicative of this trend is the prevalence of jumpsuits and maxi dresses in clothing stores. Either of these items in a floral print is an outfit in and of itself. Topshop’s Peach 70s Floral Jumpsuit beautifully exemplifies this trend. It has a square neckline with elastic straps and belted waist. The Summer Lovin Maxi Dress by Blu Moon also speaks to the retro trend. Covered in a tiny pink flower pattern, this dress is feminine and funky. Worn with a wide-brimmed sun hat and Ray Ban Clubmaster sunglasses, these blast-from-the-past pieces will have you looking trendy this summer.