Summer Trends 2011: What are You Wearing?

Although the weather has been sweltering for weeks, summer has just (officially) arrived. So, what are you wearing this season? Have you found clothes that help you feel cool while looking cool?

If you’re shopping for summer attire, here are a few 2011 trends for women and men. Not much middle ground here – you’ll either love or hate these!

Seven Trends for Women…

1. ‘70s inspired. Floppy hats, peasant blouses, macramé belts, beaded earrings, denim skirts, high-waist flared jeans, cork wedges and espadrilles. Lots of fun stuff here, but a little goes a long way. Do not – unless you’re going to a theme party – wear more than a couple of these ‘70s trends at once.

2. Crisp white. Summer and white clothes go together like fireworks and the Fourth of July. This year’s white dresses, skirts and blouses have clean lines with lots of structure and/or texture to keep them interesting. You can’t miss with this one, so go crazy!

3. Very bright colors. Eye-popping greens and blues ranging from emerald to aqua to turquoise, along with battery-powered shades of pink and orange. If you wore this trend in the ‘80s – when it was called neon – you might want to sit this one out. However, if you can’t resist, get a couple of pieces. But don’t fill your closet with these glow-in-the-dark garments because this trend should pass quickly.

4. Structured handbags. Oversized totes with metal accents take a backseat to smaller, more streamlined bags. Envelope bags, satchels and clutches in perforated leather, bright colors or two-toned leather force you to edit what you carry, while elevating your style. Get it.

5. Faux snakeskin. This print is everywhere and on everything. From the expected – handbags, heels and loafers, to the unexpected – dresses, blouses and trench coats. Think of it as the ‘new leopard’ print. If you’re on the fence about this one, start with the safest choice: a faux snakeskin bag. Could be fun!

6. Maxi dresses. This billowy look works for most body types, as long as the fit is good (i.e. not too tight or too long). That’s probably why it’s still around after a few seasons of immense popularity. But get one this year because its 15-minutes should be up soon. Tick. Tock.

7. Classic loafers and men’s-style oxfords. Not your father’s shoes, but an updated version for women. There’s something for everyone… bright colors, two-toned, even faux snakeskin. A good alternative to flats, so give them a try!

And Three Trends for Men…

1. “In between” shoes. Dressier than sneakers, but not as dressy as leather oxfords. Driving moccasins or linen bucks are a perfect summer companion to jeans or shorts.

2. Unlined blazer. Again, working the dressy-casual zone. An unlined blazer dresses up your jeans or khakis, but it’s more relaxed – and less bulky – than a lined blazer.

3. Cotton slacks in many colors. These are basically khakis… but in blue, green, pale yellow and even red. Step out of your comfort zone (at least a bit), and away from the usual khaki, tan, taupe, stone and olive slacks!

Remember, by their very nature trends are fleeting. So, carefully choose what works for you and ignore the rest. (I can’t say this enough: every trend is not for every body!) New trends, perhaps more to your liking, are just around the corner.