Hot! Hot! Hot!
Summer Accessory Trends!
By Jasmin, age 14, Indiana
Everyone knows that it's finally here - SUMMER VACATION! Something every single one of us has been waiting for with bated breath! But now it's arrived, and we're all ready for some serious tanning, boys, and of course, the beach! Oh, and we can't forget the very important summer beach accessory trends we need to focus on!
But first things first. We're going to delve into one of the essential summer accessories - sunglasses. Obviously, you have to sport the hottest shades while you're busy flirting with the boys at the pool. So, what better style to wear than our all-time favorite - oversized, white-rimmed ones! Or, if you're going for more of a risk, try some crazy square vintage ones! Or maybe, if you want to look a little nautical, try some blue & white striped wayfarers, like these adorable, yet totally inexpensive, ones from Target.
White shades (left) available for $15.29 at www.target.com
Purple shades available for $10.00 at www.target.com
Nautical shades available for $12.50 at www.delias.com
Now that we have your eyes covered, we're going to move on to an equally important item for summer vacay: flip-flops. Although you may think that all they're there for is to keep your feet off the hot pavement, you should know that they are much more than just a foot decoration. Flip-flops help tie in that beachy, 'I'm so happy it's summer, let's go swimming!' vibe that everyone loves. Plus, colors and patterns are definitely important, no matter whether you're at the beach, the pool, or just playing in the yard with your sprinkler. Flip-flops set the tone for your beachwear! So, if you're wearing a super-busy bikini and a pair of earrings, opt for more of a simpler, neutral flip-flop. Like maybe a plain black or white pair, ones that keep everyone's attention on your amazing swimsuit and not just your feet. But, if you're sporting a simple, yet cute, plain one-piece, you should definitely try a more daring style, like maybe a cork wedge with a gem on the thong.
Flip flops available for $9.99 at www.aeropostale.com
(left) Flip flops available for $12.50 at www.oldnavy.com
(right) Flip flops available for $7.50 at www.oldnavy.com
Now we're going to explore a 'just for summer' trend that is as critical as flip-flops and sunglasses. Beach bags, totes, purses, whatever you want to call them ... bottom line: they're a central part of the perfect summer vacation. Where else are you going to put your iPod with the summer's latest hits? And what about your towel and extra clothes to put on later? You also don't want to skip out on packing your sunscreen - SPF 20 or higher. No burn for you! Plus, you mustn't forget your favorite summer read - The Clique! Beach totes are super easy to find. You could just pick up a cheap, mesh one at the local supermarket, or if you want to look stylish at the pool, you can buy a cute, patterned one that's still not too much, but probably not at Kroger's or Safeway. Definitely go for summery colors, like bright fuchsia or lime green. The brighter, the beachier!
(left) Graphic tote available for $1.50 at www.forever21.com
(right) Striped tote available for $9.99 at www.aeropostale.com
Tote available for $12.50 at www.oldnavy.com
We've gotten most of the summer accessory vitals down, so next month we'll move on to everyone's favorite summer fashion topics - swimsuits and jewelry. So, stay tuned folks. One more month of waiting out your fabulous vacation won't hurt!
