Do you want to sidestep stale style this summer? Drop the neutral shades of eye shadow and lip color and toss aside your khaki-colored shorts. Let us show you how to have some fashion and beauty fun with the top 10 trends that reign supreme this season.
Modern makeup
1. Summer-inspired smoky eye. On AOL’s Stylist, beauty writer Laura Kinney reports that the “summer smoky eye” is a stunning look that’s great on anyone — and doesn’t look overdone. Softer than the traditional smoky eye, this summery style is created with thin, blended liner and shimmery shades of shadow.
How can you achieve this look? It’s simpler that you think. InStyle makeup artist Linda Hay offers these easy step-by-step instructions:
2. A bright, glossy grin. When it comes to lip color, swap the dark, moody shades of winter for brighter pinks and corals this summer. Sally Schultheiss of iVillage points out that summer is the perfect time to go brighter and glossier.
For over-the-top lips, Stila 24kt Luxe Lip Gloss Collection has a variety of vibrant summery shades. Blended with real 24kt gold, these non-sticky glosses are just right for warmer weather, boasting hydrating ingredients, including vitamin E to condition and vitamins A and C to protect your pout from the summer sun.
Remember, summer’s the time for a less-is-more look. So when you decide to do something daring, keep it subtle by focusing on one feature. If you plan to rock the summer smoky eye, opt for a sheer nude gloss for understated drama. Or, if you’re in the mood for glam, glossy red lips, skip the liner.
Clothes that are courageously couture
3. Underwear exposed. This season mischievous satin corsets and bra dresses in soft pastel shades have replaced the innocent summer frocks of years past. According to Vogue, designers such as Dolce & Gabbana, Marc Jacobs and Christian Dior have embraced this lingerie look, which calls for exposed suspenders worn with hot pants, floral printed shorts and ruffled skirts.
Ready to rock an outfit that’s intimately inspired? Wear colors that are soft and romantic. Think pastels and neutrals — reds and blacks can take this trend from edgy to over the edge.
Since this style might reveal some skin, bring out your natural luminosity with body shimmer. Urban Decay Flavored Body Powder in Honey catches the light to create a gorgeous, romantic glow.
4. Tribal fashion. Whether you’re an over-the-top fashion maven or self-described minimalist, toss aside the solid skirts and monochromatic shirts for something more aesthetically interesting. Inspired by the exotic beauty found in Africa and Egypt, tribal prints are big this summer.
What to look for? Start with asymmetrical cocktail dresses, draped skirts and blouses in earthy shades, such as stone gray, deep burgundy or rustic brown. Pick out pieces with large geometric and multi-patterned designs.
Because this style has attitude, opt for simplicity elsewhere in your look. Pair minimal makeup with simple accessories like metallic bangles or silver studs. Keep your hair ultra-sleek and understated, too. A straightening serum like Frederic Fekkai Silky Straight Ironless Serum creates sleek, smooth tresses.
5. Summer suit. Whether it’s to the beach or to work, wear the summer suit this season. The summer suit is a fun, flirty twist on professional office wear. Recreate this trend by pairing an oversized blazer with chic shorts.
Wear shorter shorts in more casual environments, but stick to slightly longer pairs when going to the office. Add a pretty blouse or sleeveless tank beneath the blazer for a splash of femininity.
6. Modern mismatch. For most of us, mismatching patterns might be the toughest new trend to tackle this season. But fashion experts agree: Pairing your favorite plaid skirt with a striped shirt is far more couture than clumsy.
So don’t wait to dig out your favorite pieces — from abstract patterns to animal prints, anything goes. Just be sure to keep the color palette complementary, and strut your stylish stuff with confidence.
Bold at the beach
7. Cut-out swimwear. Bring your bold look to the beach with a swimsuit that reveals the unexpected. Unique cut-out designs are a creative way to show some skin without revealing too much. Plus, there are many designs on the market so you can pick a style that’s most flattering to your figure.
If you plan to reveal some never-before-seen spots of skin, keep in mind that these sensitive patches need the ultimate sun protection. Before you hit the beach, slather on sunscreen with both UVA and UVB protection. La Roche Posay Anthelios 45 Ultra Light Sunscreen Fluid for Body, a light, quick-absorbing lotion, is a great option.
8. Oversized vintage shades. When it comes to sunglasses, it’s all about size and personal style this summer. Once you find a shape that flatters your face and fits your personality, select an oversized pair for a dramatic look. Especially stylish are vintage designs like oversized cat eyes and round lenses. Want to go bolder? Try colored frames. And — in case you’re curious — the color doesn’t have to match your outfit .
Unfortunately, even though most shades block out harmful solar rays, unless your glasses wrap around your face, chances are the delicate skin around your eyes is still at risk. To protect from UV rays that sneak in from the side, always apply sunscreen around the eyes. For the sensitive eye area, La Roche Posay Hydraphase UV Eyes Hydrating Protective Eye Cream is a go-to formula that provides broad-spectrum protection and boosts hydration.
Plus, here’s more on getting sunglasses that truly protect your eyes.
Haute hair
9. Asymmetrical bob. Stylelist highlights the asymmetrical shoulder-length bob as a daring ‘do to try this summer. So let your short style grow out or chop your long locks to achieve this messy — but unmistakably modern — warm weather look.
Keep your bob looking laidback and beachy by adding some wave with Philip B Maui Wowie Beach Mist. This nourishing mist adds a touch of bounce, body and volume for a look that’s a bit bold and boho.
Nail color like never before
10. All about orange. Allure reports that shades of orange polish were all over this season’s runways, and orange lacquer is the perfect way to brighten up a summer look. Pair the poppy-shade of SpaRitual Nail Lacquer I Believe in You with army green pants or an earthy pair of espadrilles.
This summer try out a fun and bold look, whether that’s a smoky eye, tribal attire with geometric patterns, a cut-out swimsuit or big vintage shades. Whatever trends you choose to emulate, remember to infuse your own personal style for a stunning and truly-you look.
See also:
Beauty Tips for Looking Gorgeous in Glasses
5 Timeless Hairstyling Tips
A DIY Guide to Dyeing Your Hair
10 Skin-Boosting Recipes for Spring & Summer