Valerie Moody
Threads

Go bright for summer

By - Jun 11th, 2011 04:00 am

This summer, let your true colors shine. Photo by Dima Bushkov via Flickr.

It’s been a long time coming, but summer is finally here! It’s my favorite time of year — a festival here, a margarita there, a day at the beach, an outdoor concert. What could be better? Summer is also the perfect time to have outrageous fun with accessories and fashion. It’s a time to be creative and more daring, so don’t fall victim to the warm-weather-fashion slump! Run amuck with hats, sunglasses, the latest sandals, dangly earrings, and bangled bracelets. Show off your toes in fun pallettes of color and grace your ankles with a shiny bauble or two.

Summer is also a great time to go crazy with bold, bright colors. Fuschia, orange, red, and bright blue are good bets but almost any bright primary color will do this season. Pair the brights with more neutral shades to lighten up the look. Work in florals, stripes and whimsical pieces to add a sassy touch. If brights make you nervous, opt for craft-inspired pieces like a crocheted bag or straw hat. To dress it up a bit, try adding a touch of glamour with tassled earrings or a handbag.

Whatever your taste, these essential accessories will get you through the summer.

Sunglasses – An absolute must for the blaring sun. Pick up a few styles and colors to change up your look. Big frames are in this year!

My absolute favorite accessory for the summer are these geeky, peculiar sunglasses from Prada. They’re perfect for summer with large frames, bright colors, and funky styles. If you’re going to make a statement, these babies are a must. They also have a steampunk feel for you punkers out there.

Photo by Raramaurina via Flickr.

Flatforms – What exactly is a Flatform? Imagine if a platform shoe and a flat shoe had a baby. These shoes are easy to wear, casual and stylish. If you like to wear heels, these can be a comfortable option available in an array of colors, styles (both casual and dressy), and heights.

I think I’m in love with flatform sandals! I admit, it’s probably because I’m a bit vertically challenged and love that they’re a type of heel but they’re also fun and 70’s retro.

Lace-up flatform sandals by Vena Cava. Photo courtesy Saks.com

Mini-bag – Ditch your big handbag and choose a stylish mini-bag that holds just your essentials like keys, lipstick and smartphone. In this heat, you don’t want to be carrying around the kitchen sink. These bags come in shoulder, hobo and clutch versions, and are cute to boot!

I’m a purse freak with an arsenal of “big” bags but there’s something about carrying a smaller one — maybe it’s the challenge of fitting only what I need in it! I love that they come in bright fun colors in various shapes. Some remind me of that famous Sex and the City cupcake bag.

Ditch the suitcase and go for a clutch instead. By Tiny Apartment Crafts.

Faves:

Lawn Party Bitsy by Kate Spade

Marimekko Mini Unikko

Nine West Mini Crossbody Bag

Hat or Scarf– Pick up a summer hat with a large brim or a lightweight scarf that can double as a head wrap if it gets too hot.

Photo and scarf by Maryse Casol

Don’t forget those tootsies! Summer shoes are all about baring your toes. Make sure they’re well manicured and polished at all times. Pamper those babies and treat yourself to a pedicure with a fabulous coat of color. Check out these fun examples (here and here) that can be done at a salon or at home with a few embellishments found at the beauty store. Imagine how great your feet will look in a pair of sandals!

Because we all deserve a little pampering, right? Photo by Terwilliger911 via Flickr.

Check out these sites for more accessory ideas!
polvore.com
zappos.com
styletips101.com/fashion

0 thoughts on “Threads: Go bright for summer”

  1. Anonymous says:

    Great ideas Val! I’m definitely amping up the color this summer. I think I may try initially with a rainbow of colors on my toes. Thanks!

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