1. Florals: green thumbs not necessary
With flowers in full bloom, summer is the perfect time to wear bud-studded frocks. Posy prints, like those that popped up on the runways of Balenciaga, can be playfully dressed up with equally-bright extras, then reworked for lazy weekend outings with sandals and understated accessories.If you feel like a five-year-old in head-to-toe florals, rosette trims and blossom brooches are an easy way to embrace the garden party. Consider fastening a red rosette or two to the toes of your favorite flats - after all, what girl doesn't appreciate a pretty flower?
2. Flapper: shake, shimmy, and shine
There's something about the dog days of summer that make us want to spend our evenings doing the Charleston in a shiny sequined flapper dress just like.The ease and breeziness of drop-waist dresses make them ideal for sweltering soirees. Paired with just a relaxed silhouette, excessively glamorous details of the '20s (beads, sequins, and jewels, oh my!) look swingingly chic. Just leave your extra jewels at home.
3. The New Look: revisiting the fashionable '40s
There's just something unmistakably glitzy about "The New Look." Between the nipped in waist, puffy crinoline skirt, and proper hemline, it's just impossible not to feel like a lady in Jackie O's favorite silhouette.That '50s prom queen kind of glamour calls for a fancy-clasp envelope clutch, rhinestone clip-on earrings, an retro peep-toe pumps (for an extra dose of elegance points if your shoes have a bow on the toes!).
4. Sequins: all that glitters is glam
Last year's ubiquitous all-over sequin stunner is being traded for a more subtly shimmered number. Like stars across the night sky, look for dresses with speckles of sparkles across the fabric.Patterned sequins, like starbursts, floral, an abstract designs, are a stylish throwback to the '80s excess. Just go easy on the jewelry - a jeweled dress demands understated accessories.
5. Neon: look on the bright side
There is no better time o bust on the neons than when the summer sun is bright and your [faux] tan is deep. While swirly patterns and floral prints can work in electric colors, solid pieces pack just as much punch.The most saturated shades of pink, yellow, orange, and green look garish worn with black accessories; always opt for metallic. Silver and gold add a glamorous shine without taking away from such a head-turning dress.