Sizzlin’ Summer Style
As temperatures climb and we kick off the official start of summer this week, women’s fashion takes a turn toward relaxed looks that are cool and comfortable.
Bohemian styles, rompers, statement accessories and handkerchief dresses all play a fashionable role into looking chic this summer in the Grand Strand.
To showcase the hottest summer styles, we’ve partnered with two area boutiques: Random Boutique and Ivy & Leo, located at the Market Common.
Bohemian Rhapsody
“Festival wear has played a major part in what women are wanting to wear this summer,” says Summer Karst, owner of Random Boutique.
Karst says a lot of the major trends they’re carrying this season — kimonos, jumpsuits and rompers, lace, bralettes, off-the-shoulder and denim cut-offs — are derived from what celebrities are wearing and posting online.
“Fashion these days is so immediately available,” she says, “We can wear what celebrities were wearing just a week earlier.”
With social media platforms making fashion more accessible, the want for trendy pieces at reasonable prices is growing. Karst says her goal for Random is to provide what’s on trend, but limits their orders to six of each item to keep their stock evolving and up-to-date.
The top trend this summer: bohemian chic.
Along with it being a versatile look for any age, Karst says, “You are able to take those pieces, mix them around, and always have a fresh look that is comfortable and your own.”
To try the trend, start with a distressed pair of jean cut-offs, like the Dark Destroyed Cut-Off Denim Shorts ($38, Random Boutique), add a versatile crop top, such as Deep Y Neck Crop ($18, Random Boutique), and finish by adding layers of accessories.
One such accessory that screams boho chic this season is the kimono, which can add a lot of versatility to your closet. You can pair it with a simple tank and shorts, wear it over a maxi dress, or throw it on as a beach coverup. The Mixed Print & Crochet Kimono ($54, Random Boutique) combines two of the top trendy elements: crochet and fringe. Its flowy cut and multicolored print is accented by simple crochet panels and long fringe at the bottom.
Add to the look with statement necklaces in varying tones of earthy colors and materials such as the Gold & Ivory Horn Necklace ($28, Random Boutique), Suede & Ivory Arrowhead Necklace ($28, Random Boutique), and the Wood & Turquoise Bead Necklace ($26, Random Boutique). Top it off with the Gold Headpiece ($16, Random Boutique). Its three tiered design features gold leaves and rhinestones that add a whimsical adornment for ultimate boho chic style.
Bohemian chic doesn’t have to only be casual, it can be the basis for a more elegant look too.
If you’re headed to an outdoor wedding or garden party this summer, try on the Blush Chiffon Maxi Skirt ($68, Random Boutique) and pair it with the Lace Sheer Top ($26, Random Boutique) and Dusty Rose Lace Bralette ($22, Random Boutique). The neutral tones of the bralette and cream lace top pair well with the flowy, multidimensional cut of the maxi skirt.
Top it off with the Rose Gold & Turquoise Necklace ($36, Random Boutique) and Flower Crown ($9, Random Boutique) for a boho chic look, or step into simple strappy nude sandals and layer gold jewelry for a more formal approach.
Pass the Handkerchief
Handkerchief hem dresses are very chic this summer says Janet Benfield, the manager of Ivy & Leo. Ivy & Leo carries a collection of affordable and on-trend pieces, and Benfield says the handkerchief hem is one of their top sellers for the season.
“They are great for a night out on the town, or for a wedding or party,” says Benfield.
The hemline of a handkerchief skirt or dress is formed through the cut of fabric panels which drape in points, resembling the corners of a handkerchief.
For a sexy date night look, try on the Flying Tomatoes Printed Maxi Dress ($44.99, Ivy & Leo). The deep plunge of the v-neckline is accented by the handkerchief hem and bright coral, blue and green geometric and floral print. Pair the dress with simple accessories, like the Bamboo Nude Ankle Strap Shoes ($34.99, Ivy & Leo), Small White Beaded Necklace ($14.99, Ivy & Leo), Gold Bangle Earrings ($12.99, Ivy & Leo), and Gold Circle Square Bracelet ($29.99, Ivy & Leo) to finish the look.
Or for a more edgy approach, opt for the Blue Pepper Black and White Handkerchief Tank Dress ($44, Ivy & Leo) and the Bamboo Black Peep-Toe Suede Sandals ($34.99, Ivy & Leo).
The flowy silhouette of the dress is highlighted by the spaghetti straps and simple black and white print, and Benfield says the black peep-toe block heels give the dress just enough class and elegance.
To make a statement, add a pop of color with a statement necklace and clutch, like the Fuchsia Clover Handbag ($29.99, Ivy & Leo) and Jane Envy Necklace with Fuchsia Tassel ($19.99, Ivy & Leo).
If you’re headed to an outdoor party, add the Jeanne Simmons Panama Jack Hat ($29.99, Ivy & Leo) to finish the look. The hat offers UPF protection and can easily be rolled or crushed to make storing it on the go a breeze.
Romper Room
For summer, the romper is once again popular. Thanks to its easy, versatile styling and one piece cut, it can be worn for a variety of semi-formal and casual occasions.
To try the trend for a gathering or a night out on the town, the She + Sky Royal Blue Chiffon Romper ($34.99, Ivy & Leo) is a chic option. The crisp hue of royal blue helps to showcase the crisscross strap pattern of the back, cinched waist, deep v-neckline, and flowy cut of the shorts.
Step into the Qupid Peep-Toe Lace-Up in Ash Grey ($39.99, Ivy & Leo) to add a touch of edge. The sandals feature laser cut-outs and strappy lace-up details which pop against the neutral grey shade and stacked heel.
“The lace-up sandals give the romper a little attitude,” says Benfield.
To accessorize the look, add statement pieces with tassels, like the Zenzii Stacked Deco Square Cut-Out Necklace ($32, Ivy & Leo) and Gold and Silver Tassel Earrings ($12.99, Ivy & Leo).
Or, if you’re in want for a more casual look, try on the Dark Coral Print Romper ($36, Random Boutique). It combines several trends with its chic off-the-shoulder cut, bohemian style crochet accents, and vibrant coral print.
Capture the boho chic look by layering the Wood Horn Necklace ($26, Random Boutique) and
Turquoise Necklace ($24, Random Boutique) with neutral, strappy sandals or wedges.
Accessories in Bloom
When in doubt, accessories can always add an element of interest and dynamic to an outfit. Tassels, coral, turquoise, wood, and gold are popular options to shop for this summer in necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
Another key element is the bralette. Karst says bralettes are really chic for summer thanks to their versatility. Worn in place of a bra, a bralette can be used with a backless dress or low-cut shirt, and adds a bit of interest and fun to an outfit.
This story was originally published June 26, 2016 at 5:41 PM with the headline "Sizzlin’ Summer Style."