3 Fun Fashion Trends for Summer

It has been a slow and wet approach to spring and summer this year. I think most of us thought it would never happen but typical of our Canadian climate, the weather has changed course and summer is definitely here.

It is always fun to add a little something to your wardrobe and I quite enjoy seeing new trends that add some "chic" to your summer outfits without breaking the bank.

Here are some items that keep popping up in my fashion feed.

Matching Sets

No longer are matching sets reserved for sleepwear. Satin, cotton, linen or silk fabrics are being worn outside as well. And in many different forms.

Long pants, shorts, skirts, long sleeved or capped sleeves-these cute little outfits can be worn when running errands or attending a summer soiree.

I love that they can be in bold patterns or bright colors and I particularly like the pastel shades that are also dominating the fashion scene this season.

The key to styling these matching co-ordinates is matching the set to the occasion.

For dinner and drinks, a pretty linen set would be perfect. Lunchtime or day events could mean a cropped top and skirt set for an effortless look. 

I could see myself wearing a set on a beach holiday because their light textures would be perfect touring a small town or having lunch at a resort. Vacation outfits call for breezy, lightweight fabrics. Add a wide brimmed hat and a pretty bag and you are good to go!

Resin and stacked Bracelets

I mentioned this trend earlier this year when I noticed it on fashion influencer sites. But they seem to be taking centre stage even more. The great thing is that they are inexpensive and can be mixed and matched with different colors or textures for a chic vibe.

I love wearing them during the warmer weather because they instantly "finish" off a simple summer outfit. I purchased a few on Amazon and also found them in Zara. Expect to see them right into fall as wearing bracelets over a blouse or sweater arm is another trend worth noting.

Polka Dots

I don't think you can have any warm weather season begin without some polka dots appearing on the fashion scene. 

I still have a layered polka dotted skirt that I pull into my summer rotation because it just always works at events I have to attend. Dressed with a summer sandal or a cute pair of running shoes, the polka dot pattern speaks of fun and lightheartedness. 

If wearing polka dots are not your thing, consider a pretty hair bow as a gentle homage to this timeless trend. 

Summer Dresses

Summer dresses abound this season. While I love the work shorts and vest look (I wear them a lot in the office), I must admit that a pretty summer dress is very appealing. I particularly love the pastel tones (I'm looking at you yellow.) I did recently buy a pretty floral dress with a full skirt. I look forward to wearing it with a straw hat, cute sandal and a bag. There are so many styles and great price points and most importantly, a good summer dress pulls any look together very quickly. 

I did notice two dress styles worth mentioning.

The strapless two-toned dress-this dress has a fitted top in one color and a co-ordinated skirt in another. It could be a classic black and white or more neutral tones. Any combination it comes in, you look pulled together. A simple textured clutch with matching sandals and off you go!

The second detail is a V channelled dress. Again, the top is fitted but the subtle detail of a V panel quickly elevates this dress into one off of the runways. I have not seen a lot of dresses on-line or in stores right now but do watch for this pretty panel detail as this type of dress can be worn to both casual and formal summer events.