Dress to Impress This Summer

Looking to impress on a date? Head out to a work meeting or a meeting with the in-laws looking fantastic with these selections. Take a close look at these top spring/summer 09-10 suggestions for anyone looking to get cool when things are hot.

Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses are a smart choice when you need a more "formal looking" dresses that are still comfortable and accessory-friendly. Keep a black maxi dress stowed away in your wardrobe for emergency dress-up situations when you're panicking away, so all you need to do is add long pendant necklaces or a stack of bangles, plus a pair of metallic flat sandals.

Sparkly Tunics

Tunics with a touch of sequins and embroidery are so hot this season! The better news is that these tops can easily stretch across multiple requirements, including beach cover-up needs and dress-up casual events like picnics and even semi-Casual Fridays. Try tucking that tunic into a pencil skirt for a trendy, trim effect, and tie up that skirt with a cool belt, if you have one.

Obi Belts

Obi belts are a great accessory to add to your repertoire, primarily because they are as cheap as they stylish. Get a few in a couple different colors to add flair to dresses, skirts, and tops, and you can find plenty of stretchier ones from American Apparel, in various lengths. I recommend getting one in black and in red for fun mixers-uppers.

Sash Dresses

A defined waist never goes out of style, does it? If your waist is the hourglass type, try a silk dress with minimal detail that ties loosely around the midsection, or a dress with a self-fabric belt that matches your frock perfectly. Matching clutches are totally recommended with vintage-style dresses, but a great long pair of earrings are also perfect!

Vintage Frocks

Need a dose of glam style this summer? Pick up a dress from a bygone age as a great Gatsby throwback or a summer of love reminder, and let the comments flow! You'll love your dress almost as much as the attention, and (best of all) you'll get to flatter your sense of style and personal taste with your choice. Consider more modern accessories to strike a great balance.

Daring Heels

High heels might be a summer standby, but try to get more creative this summer if you can! If you usually wear stacked heels, go for kitten heels. If you enjoy the odd pair of wedge heels, tryespadrilles instead for a comfortable, but different-looking style. Play with colors, and buy at least one pair of shoes in a brightly-colors solid.