Summertime, Summer Style

Trends come and go with the seasons.  But despite the constant deluge of stylish fads forever thrown our way, there are those perpetual staples that every woman should have in her summer wardrobe. Cotton Candy contributor Savannah Duncan gives us five summer must haves this sultry time of year.

No. 1 Signature Shades

Every lady needs her signature shades. Channel your inner Jackie O. with a classic oversized pair.  Cotton Candy faves include a selection of to-die-for shades from GUESS by Marciano.  Also on our list – David Yurman’s Waverly shades or slip on Rayban Wayfarers – the go-to sunglasses of Hollywood star Rachel Bilson –  or even try sporting the unique take on aviators from designers Marc Jacobs and Tom Ford, both modern and swanky.

No. 2 Timeless Hats

Not only do hats protect you from the harsh summer sun, they evoke a feeling of effortless chic – and we should note timeless hats are great for bad hair days. You can choose big, floppy hats for sitting poolside or on the beach.  To achieve a glamorous look with a hint of mystery, sport a straw fedora for a cute daytime look with a sundress or shorts.

No. 3 Coquettish Sundresses

Try any sundress from miniature to long flowing, but stick to bold, statement-making hues and patterns. Ditch the blacks and dark browns in favor of some brighter colors. The bolder, the better. Stand out in the crowd with a pulchritudinous pink or a ravishing print dress. Try a short day dress that can be worn alone or thrown over a swimsuit. Long, flowing sundresses are a comfortable and stylish choice for night. Women of all heights look great in long dresses, but if you are on the shorter side, avoid one with a ruffle or too much design at the bottom. Cotton Candy goes gaga over Kate Spade New York‘s summer dress designs.

No. 4 Enticing Espadrille Wedges

Woven espadrille wedges are THE summer shoe year after year. Stylish and comfortable, they are a great way to step up your look. Pick a pair with neutral accents so you can wear them with everything from a bikini to shorts. Metallics or nude are always good choices.

No. 5 Summertime Sunscreens

Ladies, protect your beautiful skin from painful sunburns, which in some cases can have long lasting effects.  Before you step outside this summer, make sure you are protected from head to toe. Check out Cotton Candy’s fave sunscreens from CLARINS, Elizabeth Arden and Estée Lauder that come in everything from creams and sticks to sprays.

Cotton Candy Contributor: Savannah Duncan