Thursday, March 28, 2024

Summer style

Make sure to be on trend with this sunny season’s most popular looks.

April 25, 2012
Photo by Britteny Dee | The State News

A new season is approaching and with it comes countless summertime trends to test out.

It’s time to pack away your sweatshirts, jeans and other winter gear and make room in your closet for some of the upcoming season’s most fashionable garments.

Don’t be caught wearing last summer’s fashions — they’re a thing of the past. Forget about maxi dresses, boat shoes, rompers and any other apparel that was a hit last year.

From bras turned into shirts, out-of-the-ordinary silhouettes and popular articles of clothing from decades past, the summer season is full of unique fashion fads you need to indulge in.

Start splurging on things that matter, such as a modern take on men’s loafers and a unique form of sundress.

It’s easy to take inspiration from pieces in some of the top designer’s runway collections and turn them into ensembles appropriate for the average college student.

The girls

Trend: Bra tops

Description: Bra tops are a bold alternative to cropped tops and probably shouldn’t be worn by the shy.

Prepare to have all eyes on you in these flirty, revealing shirts. Whether they are plain and simple or embellished and colorful, these tops are sure to take over many closets and retail stores this summer.

On the runway: Prada, Nina Ricci, Marc by Marc Jacobs

Trend: Floral applique

Description: This trend takes traditional summer dresses to the next level.

These 3-D flower-covered garments were seen in many well-known fashion designers’ spring 2012 collections as well as on celebrities such as Rachel Bilson.

On the runway: Diane von Furstenberg, Chanel, Valentino

Trend: Peplum

Description: Peplum is the silhouette of the summer, and the ruffle in this 1950s-inspired design gives the wearer an instant hourglass shape.

The peplum can be incorporated into a shirt, dress or skirt, making it a versatile and stylish trend to follow.

On the runway: Zac Posen, J. Mendel, Jason Wu

Trend: Flatforms

Support student media! Please consider donating to The State News and help fund the future of journalism.

Description: The flatform is a cross between a basic pair of flats and platform shoes. This type of shoe gives its wearer the benefit of high heels — added height — without making her endure the pain that comes with walking around on a tall, thin heel.

Flatforms can come in the form of boots, sandals or anything in between.

On the runway: Vena Cava, Bottega Veneta, Sonia Rykiel

The boys

Trend: Fringed loafers

Description: Fringed loafers offer those who sport them an opportunity to modernize a classic shoe — the loafer.

The fringe on this footwear embellishes the basic look, making it more elegant and luxurious than ever before. Fringed loafers are formal enough to be worn as a dress shoe but also can be fitting for everyday wear.

On the runway: Prada, Raf Simons, Luisa Via Roma

Trend: Cargo pants

Description: This summer will mark the return of cargo pants.

A once-dead garment now is reappearing on runways of some of the most famous menswear designers and also on well-known celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio.

On the runway: Michael Bastian, Tommy Hilfiger, Umit Benan

Trend: Striped sweaters

Description: The temperature isn’t the only thing that is predicted to be hot this summer — striped sweaters also are a major trend for the upcoming season.

This trend puts a more athletic spin on a traditionally formal garment while also giving the wearer a broader looking shoulder.

On the runway: Paul Smith, Gucci, Michael Bastian

Trend: Scarves

Description: Another fall and winter garment is making itself relevant for the upcoming season.

Lightweight scarves made of silk and satin appeared repeatedly in Jean Paul Gaultier’s collection for spring and summer. This neckwear trend instantly adds elegance and preppiness to just about any outfit.

On the runway: Gaultier, Nicholas K, Corneliani

Discussion

Share and discuss “Summer style” on social media.