Swimming into Spring Break

I don't know about you, but spring break is all about breaking out the bikinis! While I may not be headed to some tropical locale this year, I am planning on doing a little sunbathing during my week off--let's hope the weather cooperates!

 The three swimsuit styles above, all from Hollister, are some of my favorites this year. I love the simple nautical look of a striped top and solid bottom--perfect for boating trips. The pink polka dot bikini is cute and will look great poolside while sipping on a cocktail (virgin or otherwise). And the ruffly coral bandeau top paired with the seagull-embroidered bottom is great for a day at the water park. 

No matter how you're planning on spending your spring break this year, make sure to stock up on some new bikinis...and rock 'em if you can!

Spring Trending: A Rainbow of Shorts

Want to spice up your shorts this spring? Look for ones in a rainbow of hues! Whether denim or twill, colored shorts are a big trend this season. You can stick with lighter pastels, such as peach and aqua for a more subtle look, or go bold with orange and royal blue. Whatever shade you choose, you're sure to look hot!

What's your favorite color for shorts?

Get In On The Trend: Jeggings

If you're at all aware of fashion trends, you'll know a big one has recently caught fire across the U.S.--jeggings!
The hybrid jean-leggings are gaining in popularity, similar to their sister trend, skinny jeans, that are still very popular. Many buy them simply because of their comfyness (they're less constricting and stiff than typical jeans), or maybe because they like the look of super-skinnies. Either way, this new jeans trend is definitely one to get in on, especially if you're petite.
I myself have not yet gotten in on the trend. I don't really like skinnies much, and I'm not sure I'd like how jeggings feel, but I'm willing to try them. They're great for petites, because you can easily scrunch up the bottoms if they're too long, and the stretchy fabric will create curves you never knew you had.
Try Hollister's HCo. Jegging in Destroyed Dark Wash ($29.89) for a unique destructed look that you won't find with regular leggings. Or try American Eagle's Jegging in Worn Dark ($39.50, buy one get one 50% off!) for a more polished look.
No matter your style, body or budget, you can pull off jeggings!

4 More Fall Trends to Try

If you haven't checked out my previous post about fall trends, then check it out (7 Fall Trends to Try) and see what's new for the upcoming fashion season. Here are four more trends to try!

1. Rich Tones--It's all about pretty jewel tones this autumn! Try shades of burgundy to emerald to royal purple and see what works best for you. Check out the AE Gemstone Ring (a beautifully simple sapphire stone set in a silver ring--$15.50), Abercrombie's Maura knit shorts (the burgundy color is so polished--$19.89) and Gilly Hicks' Beecroft tee (the red is such a standout ruby shade--$9.89).

2. Refined Bags--Get a bag that has great detailing, from luxe-looking closures to custom hardware. A&F has the bags you desire, from the Parker handbag (it comes in four versatile colors and has a useful, yet stylish front pocket--$320) to the Lila tote (it's cinched top allows for easy access--$340) to the Grady foldover clutch (it's studding detail looks edgy for a night out--$220).

3. Feminine Shapes--Don't settle for pieces that are shapeless! Show off your curves (or create some) in a dress, top or skirt that has a defined waist, such as Hollister's New Jetty knit sweater (the stripes draw attention too your shape and the built-in belt carves a waistline--$27.93), the AE Denim Studded Bustier Dress (the gathered waist and corset-like fit are great for curvless girls, as well as curvier ones--$29.50) and A&F's Josey skirt (the plaid pattern is flirty and the contrast waistband calls attention to your waist--$50).

4. Lace--It has a sexy, rock-n-roll girl vibe yet it's still ladylike. Abercrombie's Charissa skirt is one good option (the stripes add appeal, and the eyelet hem is adorable--$50), as well as HCo.'s Manhattan Beach tank top (the lace trim at the neckline is subtle but sexy--$24.50) and GH's Britt sleep dress (it's floral lace design is unexpected and fun for bedtime--$29.50).

This fall, get in on the latest trends!

Cropped Length Big On Style, Perfect For Petites!

Don't drown your frame in oversized pieces--go for cropped tops and jackets that are the right length for you!
Many stores currently offer a variety of styles of shorter pieces, from tanks to jackets. The shorter length will actually make you look taller, and will show off your cute proportions.
Hollister's Cabrillo Beach tank ($24.50) is a brightly-colored embroided top that will look great under a hoodie or cardigan. Also try the Moonlight Beach sweater ($44.50) for a very girly look.
At American Eagle, be sure to check out the AE Embellished Drop Shoulder Sweatshirt ($39.50). Its shoulder embellishments will help fill out your small frame. And the AE Denim Jacket ($49.50) is a great versatile piece for all seasons.
Finally, at A&F, try the Alicia sweatshirt ($60). It's hoodless style is a fresh update on the typical sweatshirt. The Fallon shirt ($68) is shorter than typical button-downs and won't make you look shorter than you actually are.
This fall, look your best (and tallest) by getting in on the cropped trend!

7 Fall Trends to Try

Thanks to the August issue of People StyleWatch, you can find out what some of the latest trends in fashion are.

Military-inspired messenger bag




A camel-colored mini is so versatile!




This pearl-and-chain necklace adds some edge




A chunky knit sweater like this works in the summer and fall

1. Military--It's not just camo anymore! Try out a great olive green cargo skirt or simple khaki shorts. The AE Military Skirt ($34.50) from American Eagle is the perfect mid-length for fall and looks great with Hollister's Swami's Beach jacket ($69.50) and a solid slouchy tee.
2. Camel--Basic beige is anything but this fall! This color is available on everything from skirts to crops to mocs and is super-versatile. Hollister's First Point jacket ($79.50) is a great layering piece for cooler days.
3. Edgy Jewelry--Inspired by the rock 'n roll culture, the must-have accessories this season include pearls and chains for a rocker-glam appeal. Try all the pieces from AE's "Heavy Metal Band" jewelry collection.
4. Chunky Knits--These are always in style and look amazing over jeans, leggings, shorts or minis. Abercrombie's Jorie sweater ($24.90) is light enough for summer, while HCo's Ormond Beach sweater ($49.50) will look amazing this fall.
5. Full Minis--It's all about the details! Anything goes, especially small floral prints, plaids and lace. The AE Ditsy Floral Skirt ($24.95) is very girly, Hollister's Avalon skirt ($29.89) is preppy and A&F's Charissa skirt ($50) is airy and cute.A camel-colored mini is so versatile!
6. Gray--This is the new neutral, so try it in place of basic black. It's much more fashion-forward, and looks best in matte tones. The AE Sweatshirt Dress ($39.50) is a simple pick, while Hollister's Santa Monica sweater ($44.50) has more of a nautical vibe.
7. Messenger Bags--You've gotta own at least one of this year's it-bag. AE's Campus Messenger Bag ($39.50) is only one great style.

The next time you're shopping, don't forget these tips that will help you transition fashionably into fall.