Summertime Dos and Don'ts

This is some great information with fun solutions to summer wardrobe conundrums. My friends at Fresh Produce and I have some super savvy advice when it comes to beating the heat, in style. You can thank us now...

1.    Don’t commit accessory blunders

Put those suede boots back in the closet! Make sure accessories are appropriate by paying attention to color, weight and style. Remember to keep it light, airy and fun. (Take the time to get a proper pedicure to start the season off right - take your manicurist your own polish and then touch ups at home will be easy!)

Do match your accessories to the season

Summer scarves like the Island Floral Scarf ($29) by Echo make great headbands to keep flyaway hairs at bay. They even dress up casual skirts or shorts when worn as a belt or sash.  Summer is also a great time for fun and whimsical accessories like the Silver Starfish Necklace ($24), Crystal Starfish Bracelet ($19), and the Blue fish Pendant Necklace ($24).

2.    Don’t let the heat determine your hemline

Hotter temperatures shouldn’t automatically mean less clothing. Let your summer outfit choices reflect your personality with color and patterns. If "daisy dukes" aren't for you, don't wear them! Try a pretty printed maxi dress or versatile and lightweight roll-up pants. (And this is where a nice faux glow will come in handy)

Do wear clothes that make you look and feel fabulous

If short shorts aren’t for you, try something that’s back in style this summer: the Bermuda short! The Gigi Pedal Pusher ($69) comes in an exclusive palette of bright colors and is a great active short for summer fun. Skorts are back on the “what to wear” list, too. The City Skort ($54) feels like casual wear, but looks like a great all-occasion summer skirt, making it our go-to choice this summer.  

3.    Don’t let wardrobe malfunctions cramp your summer style

The biggest summer-fashion mishap on our list: the peak-a-boo bra strap. Too many summer tanks and dresses leave room for unwelcome strap appearances. (And while it may look good on models or actresses, trust me; no one at your kids camp or the grocery store is interested in what kind of bra you're wearing today.)

Do choose summer items with considerate details

Tanks like the Horizon Cowlneck Tank ($39) and Layering Tank ($34) are cute to prevent the dreaded “strap slide.” Even the flattering Dragonfly Impromptu Dress ($89) with its open back is cut to be “no fuss, all style.”

4.    Don’t get a sunburn

Not only is sunburn the leading cause of skin cancer, but it also ages your skin. Never leave the house without your SPF and lightweight clothes that shield your skin. (See, it's not just me saying this! There are so many gels, lotions and sprays out there - no excuses!)

Do use clothing and accessories to protect your skin

A hat like the Ginger Poly Braid ($38) from Wallaroo has a wide brim to give you added protection from the sun. Plus, a loose-fitting top in a breathable, 100% cotton fabric blend is a great way to cover and protect shoulders. Both the Twin Peaks Top ($55) and Fringe Poncho ($59) have open sleeves and hang loosely, making each top the perfect, light layer to shield you from the sun’s rays.

  

Scream Worthy Salon Experiences

How do you handle leaving the salon looking nothing like you'd hoped? The color is no where close to they picture you discussed - the style is laughable.

How do cope?

First, check your hair out in natural light - those salon lights are better for working, not for showing your true color. Step out into the sun. You'll be surprised how different the color looks in natural lighting.

As far as the cut & style: while you can't reattach hair that's already been cut, you CAN go home and style your hair yourself. I cannot tell you how often I have left the salon and went straight home to style my hair myself. And that's OK!

But if you still aren't happy with your color or your cut after a day or so, go back! Let them make it right - it is they job and most take pride in their work. They want you to be happy!

Dry Hair Faster!

It's one of my daily rituals that I hate. Drying my hair. It's gotten so so long I was hoping to donate it, but that's another story.

I shrieked with joy when this Goody Quik Style Paddle Brush showed up at the office. Anything that would cut down on drying time is a must-try in my book. So I packed it up and brought it home.

Oh my, am I thrilled! The brush has these little soft sponge like fibers in between the bristles that soak up water and help dry the hair faster. It works. I have definitely cut 5-10 minutes off my dry time. And you don't have to do anything different. No special products for your hair or anything. Just dry as usual using the brush.

Pick one up at Target and try for yourself. You won't be disappointed!