Summer makes everyone start to dream about getaways and the glamour of travel!

Summer is about to start. Memorial Day is usually the signal that fun and sun are ahead.

This season the IT item is a dress. If you can’t find a dress this season, then you don’t want a dress! There are so many dresses out this season. There are styles for everyone. Midi, A-line, Fit and Flare, Maxi- all styles and lengths are everywhere. You will find off-the-shoulder styles, as well as styles that are sleeveless, short sleeves and 3/4 sleeves. There are dresses that can do it all. They can be worn over a swimsuit and then with the addition of a topper that same dress can go out to dinner. Many of the dress styles available this year are in bright color combinations. They become very playful when ruffles, or asymmetric necklines and asymmetric hems are added. There is a Boho feeling to dressing this season. You can see it in the many off-the-shoulder styles. Dusters and toppers in chiffon and light weigh fabrications complement the dresses and add to the ways a dress can be worn.

Fabrication also relays a feeling of endless summer and a bohemian way of dressing. Gauze, of course, as well as linen and linen blends dominate the summer scene. You will see lots of eyelet embroidery as trim, as well as in full garments. Crochet is here this year and is carrying me back to the 60’s and the Woodstock generation. The Shibori tie dye technique has gained a position in prints that continues into summer. Floral prints and tropical themes are being shown in dresses, tops, and pants. Prints are everywhere and look glorious in citrus brights and of course, hot magenta this year. On a more conservative side, seersucker stripes give a real summer vibe too.

Denim is still a main event even in the heat of summer. With today’s technology there are various weights in denim and there are comfortable weights for the summer months. Look for ankle length and cropped lengths for this season. Denim is also embellished this year with embroidery and crochet trims.

Handbags for summer are straw and woven styles and statement making bright colors. This year crochet styles in natural as well as color are in the stores.

Shoes! So many shoes!! There are flats, wedges, 3″ heels, “fat” heels, slides sandals, thong sandals, tons of variety in ankle straps, and of course, a variety of styles in sneakers. What you choose to wear should depend solely on what you can handle. There is absolutely nothing attractive about a face that shows how your feet are suffering. Get over it! There are so many styles for you to choose. Remember, having happy feet is no small feat and should be a top priority!

A jewelry trend for this summer is stacking beaded bracelets. I particularly like beaded bracelets that also have an inspirational message. Stack them up to make a colorful statement.

Have a great time this summer. Remember, dress up and show up!

The following photos were taken in Bloomingdale’s