Margarite Elaine: May 2008

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

ME Summer Obsession: Maxi Dresses

What is a Maxi Dress?

A long skirt or dress which gained popularity in the 70's. My favorites are the ones which feature vibrant graphic prints or awesome summer colors. This season you can find them just about everywhere and available at every price point.

How do I wear it?

With a ton of accessories or with none at all depending on your preference. Add flip flops or gladiator sandals during the day and bejeweled or heeled sandal for night.

Who can wear it?

Just about anybody. I prefer the look on the tall ladies myself (hey, I'm over 6' ft so I'm a little bias) but my shorter gals can pull the look off as well. The key is ensure that you show some skin (i.e. halter, sleeveless or tube top dresses) and your dress should stop a little before your ankle.

Why are you obsessed?

Who has time to get ready these days? Between my conference calls and endless meetings, a girl has schedule in bathroom breaks. A maxi dress is an instant outfit that can get ME out of the door in 15 secs flat. Makeup? I can do that during one of my conference calls.

Summer Trend 2008: Straw Hats

Summer 2008 Trend: Straw Hats

This summer the traditional straw hat has gotten an update. No more plain or lack luster straw hats here! You'll see button details, rich summer colors and all kind of fun summer adornments. Remember: the wider the brim, the greater the sun protection. While I'm all about looking fantastic on the beach, sun damage is never in fashion. For my fair skinned ladies, I also recommend throwing some SPF (50 or higher is my fav) in your beach tote for an added an extra layer of sun protection. Ready to beat the heat in one of these stylish straw hats featured above? Click here to get more information.

Do you love straw hats? In love with one featured above? I want to hear about in the comments!

Summer Trend 2008: Beach Tote

Summer 2008 Trend: Beach Tote

Nothing makes ME happier than a beach tote that doubles as a handbag. All of these totes are super easy to carry, provide tons of room but more importantly, many serve double duty. I like my totes with tons of pockets, some kind of protector at the bottom (i.e. leather or those little silver pegs so that my items don't get wet) and extremely durable. Since I know that I'll be throwing my bag in the backseat as a travel from shore to sunny shore, I need one that can take a beating! See a bag above that'd be perfect for your next weekend getaway? Click here for more information.

Which beach tote will you be carrying this summer? Tell ME all about it in the comments below!

Summer 2008 Trend: Graphic Mini Skirts

Since I'm over 6", I have to approach this trend with caution. One good San Francisco breeze and I could be showing all the world my business. I like to wear my minis with boy shorts, flat sandals for daytime and killer heels at night. For my girls with a larger bottom half, I recommend selecting a mini with a darker background to down play one of your greater assets. This is truly one of my favorite summer trends because just about any girl can look fabulous in it! See a mini that you can't wait to sport? Click here to get more info on the skirts featured above.

Will you be sporting a mini this summer? Tell me why or why not in the comments below!

Summer Trend 2008: Plastic Sandals

Nothing screams Summer more than my favorite pair of jelly sandals. The moment that I can wear them poolside, I know Summer has arrived. This season, retailers are giving us several choices to wet our appetite. Whether gladiator or thong, plastic (i.e. jelly or PVC) sandals have returned with a vengeance. The key to pulling off this trend is a fresh pedicure complete with a vibrant nail polish of your choice. See some sandals above that you want to rock poolside? Click here to get more info.

Trend on the Horizon: Neon Colored

With loud punches of color and vivid dips of patent, neon is making a comeback. It's not the 80's ladies, so head to toe neon is unacceptable! Ease into this trend by integrating a statement piece into your summer wardrobe. Remember, neon speaks loudly so keep the rest of your look neutral. Want to glow your way into this trend? Click here to get more info on the pieces featured above.

Timeless Trends: Leather Bomber Jacket

The bomber jacket first debuted during WWII, then regained it's popularity during the 80's and has maintained its edge even today. If you own one with tight sleeves, fits loosely or has a belt, it's time to toss it! Update your look by finding a fit that flatters you while maintaining the original bomber silhouette. Love the leather bomber jackets featured above? Click here for more info.