Those summertime trends can be oh so appealing and make us want to dive in head-first. But hold on for a second, does your wallet think that’s such a great idea? Hmmm, maybe not. Don’t worry though, it’s still possible to be trendy AND budget conscious.
The key is to not be an impulse shopper, but do your research before you buy. Check out your favourite stores online and read the latest fashion magazines and blogs (like this site) so you can scope out the trends you cannot live without. Then, you can buy a few choice pieces and make the most of them by ensuring you are buying things that will fit into your existing wardrobe. Believe me, it’s what all the chicest fashionistas are doing… because let’s face it, we aren’t all independently wealthy.
Don’t believe me? Take a look at these 4 hot summertime trends. We’ve put together 2 looks for each trendy item and that’s what you want to do to make the most of your purchases – make sure that you can make at least 2, 3, 4 or more outfits utilising existing items you already own.
By doing a little prep work and being a disciplined shopper, you can have those trendy looks you love.
Here are 4 signature pieces for the top summertime trends and two looks for each one.
Floral Prints
Floral prints have been all the rage for summer and can be found gracing everything from dresses and trousers to bags and shoes. The popular prints are larger scaled as opposed to smaller scale, but we won’t rule out any florals. These are no shrinking violet florals either, but bright, bold and colourful floral prints are what’s totally on trend now. And one of the beautiful things about this latest iteration, is that there are very few rules. Mix and match them, pair with neutrals, add floral accessories – from seeing what’s on the street, anything goes as long as it’s stylish!
Floral Look #1
In this look, take a pretty floral fit and flare dress and dress it up for a day at the office or summer garden party.
- Fluro Floral Skater Dress at Oasis.
- Crepe Heather Blazer at Piperlime.
- ALDO Eila White Ankle Strap Platform Wedges at Asos.
- Fossil Gold cut out floral bangle at Debenhams.
Floral Look #2
Take the same dress and add some sandals and a sun hat for a day of window shopping while on holiday.
- Fluro Floral Skater Dress at Oasis.
- River Island T Bar Metal White Sandals at Asos.
- Natural plain weave floppy hat at Dorothy Perkins.
- Stud Detail Quilted Chain-Strap Bag at Charlotte Russe.
The Pencil Skirt
The pencil skirt has had a strong presence this summer. The classic silhouette is flattering to all body types and versatile too. It’s possible to find printed patterns, solids and all the colours of the rainbow as well. Take your pick and find a pencil skirt that calls out to you to add it to your wardrobe. We’ve picked a snakeskin print, which we know will remain trendy throughout AW13.
Pencil Skirt Look #1
Take a snakeskin print pencil skirt and add some colourful accessories for a casual outfit fit for a summer barbecue or running errands.
- Python Pencil Skirt at Piperlime.
- BCBG Paris Magie Canvas Flat at Dsw.
- Workshop Cold Shoulder T-Shirt at Asos.
- Alternative Traveller Shoulder Bag at Urban Outfitters.
Pencil Skirt Look #2
Dress that same skirt readily prepared for the office.
- Python Pencil Skirt at Piperlime.
- Blushed Solstice Shell at Anthropologie.
- Jessica Simpson Shoes, Blossom Platform Pumps at Macys.
- Gemstone Bib Necklace at Forever21.
Leopard Print
Leopard print has been on trend full force for a few years now. It can still come of a little like something from the Sopranos, but the modern leopard goes less with big hair and mall bangs than the leopard print of the past. It can still be tricky pulling it off, so watch wearing it with those bodycon dresses. Also, try non-traditional colours or lighter and darker versions of the pattern.
Leopard Look #1
This look is perfect for date night.
- Fanta by Dolce Vita at Piperlime.
- Animal Print Dress at Mango.
- Cream curve bar clutch at Dorothy Perkins.
Leopard Print Look #2
Dress it down with some oxfords and shades for a day at the beach.
- Animal Print Dress at Mango.
- Kimchi Blue Teen Dream Oxford at Urban Outfitters.
- Metallic Striped Scarf at Forever21.
- Rock and Rags by Firetrap Bow Detail Sunglasses at Usc.
Neon Colours
We love the neon trend! It’s bright, refreshing and fun. While it might have more appeal for the younger set, don’t be intimidated if you’ve moved out of the house, have a job and a mortgage, you can still pull it off. Try picking one neon item to create an outfit around or go all in!
Neon Look #1
Don’t be shy, mix and match your neon.
- Jewel Denim Color Skinny Jeans at Piperlime.
- Knotted Fringe Scarf at Forever21.
- Purple Neon Aztec Crop T-Shirt at New Look.
- Limited Neon Yellow Patent Pointed Court Shoes at New Look.
Neon Look #2
And you can take the same neon jeans and make them a little more sedate by toning down the colour.
- Silence + Noise Vegan Leather Hooded Bomber Jacket at Urban Outfitters.
- Button-Tab Chevron Blouse at Charlotte Russe.
- New Look Gladdy Gladiator Wedge Sandals at Asos.
So, that’s the trick and it can be done. Happy shopping!
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