Fashion

Cover up queens

Seeing how its summer and the weather's quite fantastic I thought it was time to do some cover up comparisons-you know, see what really goes from the beach to beachside party without a change in sight. And as with all types of comparison-shopping, I typically start with the usual suspects (bathing suit/sporting goods sites) first, and then carry on from there.

Let's start with one of the most well known, Everything But Water. I really do love this site. After getting caught up in numerous bathing suits (not why I'm here!) I remember to go back to cover ups, where I find not one, but two fantastic pieces. Becca, a company known for their cute beachwear, designs the first, which is a cross between the colors and patterns of Hawaii and Mexico. I love the blue and red…this would go great with a solid colored tank suit like this one from J.Crew. The second option, also from Becca, is this is sultry version with long sleeves, a deep V and some delicate embellishment to boot. When I say go from the beach to the bar, this is the dress to do it in.

Moving on, we come to Adidas. The collection of Stella McCartney's sport clothing is super cool, a lot of which would work well as a cover up. I am completely taken with this "sport bathrobe" which looks more like a cute dress/cover up to me than a robe. The tie dresses it up while the cut, shape and color add an added designer dimension.

From here we hit the department stores. Lately Nordstrom has offered all sorts of great treasures, and the 33% discount isn't hurting either. I've found a TON of cute dresses, but am especially impressed with this gorgeous pink and blue graphic cut by Free People. A little cheaper but just as snazzy in butter yellow is this Necessary Objects button front version made out of lightweight cotton. Imagine this with a pair of white flip flops and one of those feminine straw beach hats!

If you're interested in super cheap but super cute, hit up Target and Old Navy. Target's got a whole section on cover-ups and Old Navy has amazing casual skirts, which are another necessary staple.

Whether you're hitting a private pool, the public beach, or simply a friend's sprinkler, there is nothing stopping you form looking great and being comfortable. Even in the heat.

Crafty closets

When it comes to dressing for summer, convenience is certainly key. That's because with so much going on (parties, pools, activities, socializing) there isn't a lot of time to waste wondering and worrying about what to wear. Being prepared with essential items like great cotton tanks, tees and a colorful array of casual footwear will only help you when your packed schedule becomes more of a burden than blessing.

So what are some of the closet staples this summer? Well, first off, everyone needs a great pair of sunglasses. In fact, I'd by one cheap pair (for beach, sand and surf) and another for those afternoons of boutique shopping and restaurant noshing. For affordably chic glasses you can't go wrong with Urban Outfitters. I recently bought some plastic aviators painted in what looked like splattered blue (I promise they were cool) for $14! I mean how can you go wrong with that. And after a recent browse I came across these, which have a fetching tiger print. For $18 you really have to go a bit wild, don't ya think? If your answers no then opt for something simple and sensible like these oversized tortoise.

Besides sunglasses a fantastic tote bag is essential. Not only can you carry magazines and lotion for the beach, but a change of clothes when necessary. Barney's Co-Op has the BEST totes lately; I always eye them when I walk by the store. But for the true original go no further than Lands End.

Accessories are great but it's time for the clothes. And boy are there a ton of things out there. I'm especially fond of Splendid t-shirts, the jersey and cotton is super soft and their styles are really fun. For something with more style (which you can quickly throw on with jeans and flats) I would suggest checking out Forever 21. I'm not entirely familiar with this store but I do know after browsing online they have a TON of great tops like this long-sleeved version in blue or this white and black tank with buttons.

Summer weight jeans are something we don't often think of but which are always a good thing to have. Ditch the Capri versions for a lighter, leaner cut, like these twill, white jeans from Goldsign. White is a cool, classic color and believe it or not can be worn straight into fall with brown boots and a cozy cardigan. Now that's what I call being prepared.

The breakdown on bikinis

Earlier today I was reading a trend newsletter I get from London. In it, they mentioned a study done by Gardenburger (yes, the veggie burger company) launched in the US about woman and their bodies. It was quite intriguing as only 6% of women said they felt ready to wear bikinis this summer. Gosh, that's a bummer as there are so many cute options out there!

Listen, we all wish we were thinner, more toned, more fit, and svelte, but more than likely we're not and won't be this summer. So instead of letting the warm days go to waste (because the bathing suits have you scared) I suggest looking at other options (one-pieces, tank-inis, and fuller bikinis) that help, not hinder your figure. Hitting the beach doesn't have to be a disaster, but a lesson in looking your best no matter what shape your in.

The one-piece
Every woman has a curve or two she'd like to cover. I suggest instead of hiding them, accentuate with a great suit like this one from Miraclesuit. The design, which claims to make anyone look 10 pounds lighter, is incredibly chic with its sophisticated, ruched detailing and built-in underwire bra.

If low cut isn't your thing then opt for a style like this button-front halter tank from J. Crew. I love the black and white stripes (so Amalfi Coast!), which transcends seasons and can be worn year after year.

The forgiving two-piece
You don't have to give up on the bikini just yet. I found a ton of options with more coverage. If you focus on your positives it's almost 100% sure everyone will notice them and these will definitely accentuate all the right places.

First up, try this swanky number from Diane von Furstenberg. I found it on Bluefly for so cheap! The top has a ton of coverage while the bottoms are cut both high and moderate. If a tankini or fuller coverage bikini is more your style then this floral version from Boden should have you giddy. I love the idea of mixing and matching, and the colors they offer are so summery.

So if you can stomach a suit and are off to the beach, then check out the vast assortment of cover-ups to compliment and accessorize your look. I particularly like neutral colors because in a pinch you can pair with them with sandals and wear them out that same night. This navy jersey dress from KZ JerZey is really fun with its crossover front and tie at waist. I also love the feel of anything by Clu, a fairly new brand on the contemporary scene.

Mini madness

Short and to the point. That's the mini for you. A flamboyant ovation to the never ending leg, this 'swinging sixties style' is definitely sticking around this spring. So what's all the to-do about now? Well with all things fashion related trends come and go. But the ones that reappear again and again usually arrive with added benefits, better styling and clever changes to and existing hit. And that's where the mini comes in.

With its revival is the chance to try this look made popular during a time when girls weren't afraid to show a little leg. If styled well, it can promote a carefree exuberance. If worn incorrectly, the mini had the ability to present its owner as more tart than tasteful.

But don't let a potential blunder deter you. Because the mini is fantastic. It's miniscule and shocking in a flirty sort of way. Part cheeky and fun, it tends to laugh in the face of modesty, while representing something impractical and young. Dare to embrace this look - for the mini isn't to be reckoned with. Women don't wear it; it wears them.

So the question is: can the everyday woman give the look a new spin? Well this year's crop of designs point straight in that direction. You have super short, like this mint green chino version from Target. I see it paired perfectly with a white tank but let's be honest, unless you've got legs to hear you're not going to be able to get away with this. For most girls a mid-mini will do the trick and The Gap is proving to have a stellar selection. I like this striped denim on sale for $25! You can't beat a price like that when you're buying a tiny piece of fabric.

I'd also suggest checking out shops like H & M and Zara. Unfortunately their sites don't carry online shopping but they've got incredible deals on super trendy items. Their mini's are endless and in the best fabrics and colors. Likewise I stumbled upon these dresses from Victoria Secret of all places. I love the black halter neckline and figure friendly trapeze. A mini needn't be super tight to be super fantastic. The flowing fabric and modest cut suggest the wearer is a fashion follower with sense enough to take the trend only as far as their individual comfort.

Whatever way you wear it, the mini is a true summer staple. So grab your favorite version, pair it with flats or flip flops and head out on the town.

DON'T LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAP

There is an old Russian Proverb that says, "He who doesn't risk never gets to drink champagne." I love this train of thought. To me taking a risk is one of the many things that helps us grow. Well that and learning when not to.

How I equate this to clothing is by imagining what I perceive as a risk. Perhaps mixing patterns in bright, delicious colors. Or layering unique fabrics and textures with an item of clothing that normally would be worn on its own. Basically doing something a tad out of the ordinary to make an impact. It might not always work out the way you imagine but the idea is that you tried.

So I'm dedicating today to risks. I'm suggesting we infiltrate our closets and put together something we secretly have imagined but have never actually had the guts to wear out. Define your individuality with pieces of clothing or accessories that are in the true spirit of you. Perhaps a sensible black dress paired with these fantastic zebra heels. Or a smashing green necklace paired with yellow seersucker. The idea is to think outside your norm and in doing so create take a risk in style.

In advance of this blog I scoured the stores for some out some standout pieces. I'm always happy when I find affordable options that still carry their weight in punch. And one of the best places to look for this type of thing is in the BP section of Nordstrom's. Yes the stuff is trendy, but when you're talking about statement stuff this is where it's at.

After briefly browsing I found numerous items for risk takers. How about a bright kelly green, houndstooth jersey wrap dress a la Diane von Furstenburg. Pair it with a black cardigan or go all out with a pair of gold flats. If patterns aren't your thing they opt for pieces with a dramatic cut or flourish. The bubble sleeves on this dress are both flirty and feminine.

If your typical brown sandals and black wedges have you feeling a lot more ordinary then I've got the answer. Who could resist raspberry patent leather flats for only $19.50? The peep toe is perfect for showing off your pedicure while the faux leather material is super eco-conscious for those of you who care.

Finally, when I think of risks I think of plunging necklines. While most of us shouldn't go around wearing these it's still fun to look. I mean who wouldn't love to toss on a top like this with a pair of jeans and hit happy hour? Oooo…and the sequins! This dress is a must have for any girl on the go. Imagine this with flip-flops and a deep purple handbag. Perfect for summer.