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What Not to Wear: The Dos and Don'ts of Summer Fashion
By Mary Dance '08
STAFF WRITER

With warm weather knocking temptingly at our windows, particularly during finals, what better to anxiously anticipate than the new trends for spring and summer fashion?. Though some trends have persisted from the warm weather seasons of last year (the wedge; the flirty mini-skirt; and the ever-popular flip-flop), 2007 has brought its own fads, from makeup to clothing. Similarly, the new year and its warm weather seasons have ousted some previously popular trends, while perhaps reiterating some “never-evers.”

While makeup and hair are always important elements of your look, they can prove especially challenging during summer months of heat and humidity. In temperatures of 85 degrees and over, makeup artists suggest tinted moisturizer, powder, a lip gloss, and water-resistant eye makeup. If the temperature rises over 95, nix the eye makeup. For those of us lucky to live in a more reasonable summer climate, little makeup change becomes necessary. With that in mind, the summer’s such trends are as follows:

1. Fresh, shimmery shadow: Stay far, far away from anything that resembles glitter, but don’t shy away from shadows with a hint of shimmer. Light, shimmery pastels create a fun, summer eye, giving it the hint of warm-weather attention it may need.

2. Pink or nude lips: Though this Fall brings a deep red lip, this Spring and Summer certainly do not. Instead, choose a pink or even nude gloss or stick. Either of these colors will give the face a fresh, clean look that requires little maintenance throughout the day.

Though some pair accessories with clothing, there is also an art to pairing clothing with accessories. From sparkly sandals to big jewelry, big bags, and big sunglasses, this season’s accessories truly define its trends.

1. A little eye protection: Firstly, big sunglasses have not yet found their way out of style, and as their fashion reign continues, many designers have adopted the policy of “the bigger the better.” From Kate Spade to Betsy Johnson, sunglasses have risen in popularity along with their size.

2. Boho/hobo-chic bags: About two seasons ago, Mary-Kate Olsen donned what some then dubbed as “dumpster-chic.” Though its name later evolved to “boho” or “hobo-chic,” the twin inspired designers like Zac Posen to Marc Jacobs. Two years later, it hasn’t faded, and thus we carry ridiculously large handbags. These bags were made most popular through Coach’s line of “hobo” bags, but now everybody manufactures such purses, from H&M to Pucci.

3. Giant jewelry: in a similar vein, this season’s most popular than jewelry is described by Elle magazine as “larger than life.” Rings, necklaces, and bracelets all fall into this category and add touches of fun to any outfit. However, the wearer must be slightly more careful: smaller women should choose large rings or bracelets, but stay clear of earrings and necklaces, lest it appear that their jewelry is wearing them.

Finally, spring and summer clothing. This season incorporates fashion elements both preppy and urban. In a unique mix of New York-style trends with those of the Hamptons, this season allows much leeway with regards to general fashion choices.

1. Shorts: This summer returns shorts in any length and style. From Daisy Dukes (and yes, I mean Daisy Dukes…think the cotton or poly-blend athletic-type short) to Bermuda shorts and all between, this year and its trend-setters exercise little discretion on such a front…which I nearly regret having to write. I ask, for the sake of many, that you please, please leave the Daisy Dukes at home following the summer’s conclusion.

2. Tiered mini-skirts and dresses: See Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton for the trend’s original inspiration. These pieces can be both flippy and fun for the warm summer months. Beware, though, of tiers that may emphasize problem body parts (e.g. hips, waist, thighs).

3. Khaki, khaki everywhere: For the coming months, designers have created pieces that utilize the khaki color extensively. From tops to shorts, skirts, bags, and even shoes, the color’s popularity this season truly seems surprising. Nonetheless, form Tracy Reese to Gucci, designers have taken at least a temporary liking to the color.

4. The T-Shirt Dress: Fittingly flowing and breezy, the t-shirt dresses, inspired Marc Jacobs and Calvin Klein, have been mirrored by the lines of Nordstrom, H&M, American Apparel, and even Target. Though the runway has pictured these dresses as short as short can be, many advise that non-models (i.e. normal women) keep the length modest.

For a season with trends so numerous, there remain a few, noteworthy anti-trends or “never-evers.”

1. Steer clear of the newly popular patent platform shoes. Just because we’re doing boho-chic does not mean we’re doing hooker-chic. At the recommendation of both the editor and myself – never ever.

2. A little denim goes a long way. Jeans, jackets, and the mini are pretty classic, but NEVER together. Large denim pieces like the long jean skirt and overalls went out with Ricky Martin and pogs. Just because someone makes it doesn’t mean that it should be worn.

3. Lastly, pantyhose. Though they do not constitute a “never ever,” they absolutely are on their way out of style and social necessity. Especially in the warmer months, refrain from wearing them unless absolutely mandated by some sort of dress code.

With that, I wish you all good luck this summer with trends, accessories, and any more significant pursuits!