Spring & Summer Fashions
It’s Time to Go Exotic
By Emily Kopec

You know something’s up when you walk outside and you don’t immediately feel chilled to the bone. What – what is this? A rather pleasant – dare you say warm – sensation permeates your body. You look up suspiciously only to discover the once murky gray sky is now a Bahamian-esque blue, her sun gleaming gloriously.

Congratulations, you’ve made it through another harrowing New England winter, this one complete with a really nasty string of Nor’easters. Some unlucky warriors went for days without electricity or heat, wearing layers of long johns and sweats to stay warm, experiencing the fashion nightmare of dressing for function alone. [Insert blood-curdling scream here]. As traumatic as that must’ve been (I’m talking about the fashion nightmare, not the experience of living in freezing cold and darkness for days on end), at least you were in the privacy of your own home. And you did get your power back…eventually. Let’s take a moment and acknowledge that you won’t have to scrape ice off your windshield at 5am or sit in your dark frozen living room next to a kerosene lamp and a friggin’ transistor radio again anytime soon.

Now, we get to move onto much warmer and better things: spring and summer fashion! Pulse has gathered the most explosive trends to share with you for the spring/summer 2009 season (goosebumps!) and we’re not holding back. Stuff those down parkas away and let’s get down to business.

Sexy Shoes

It’s only right that I start this fashion bonanza off where I wear my heart…Not on my sleeve, silly – my feet! It’s – OMG – shoes! The strongest trend this season is all things exotic, and that statement clearly comes across in spring’s new heels. They’re bold, they’re attention stealing, and they’re a tad unapologetically scary.

First up in your must-have spring shoe wardrobe: a fierce python sandal. Not an ’80s sorta python, but a modern, structured kinda python (If you’re not raising your eyebrow at that one, you are a true fashionista). To elaborate, they’re not flimsy and cute, they’re serious and look like they’re worth their weight in gold. They can go everywhere from streamlined to over-the-top with buckles and straps galore. This season’s pythons can easily rock a classic gray with black reptile print, or they get punched up in a pastel shade like baby blue or pink. Please don’t be afraid of patent pythons that carry a little gloss, they don’t bite. And what the hell is hotter than a python platform heel? Sound the alarm.

Speaking of platforms – which we already know have been huge as of late – they’re still in full force this spring, soaring to skyscraping heights. Rejoice that you can now show off that glorious pedi in an open-toe platform. Go nuts – especially you short sisters, who’ve been wearing them everywhere from grocery shopping (not kidding) to triathlon competing (kidding). But seriously, is it just me, or are platforms getting easier to walk in? Hmm. It’s either the experience of teetering over snow banks in them on drunken Saturday nights out, or maybe the labels are finally making them more human-friendly. Either way, it rocks. (Not that we were complaining before – I think the alcohol is what gave us the guts to wear them in the first place).

Also making a splash on the shoe scene are color block heels. These puppies showcase multi – usually two – contrasting colors in one shoe by using a different color on each thick strap or area. For example, bright blue and teal team up on a high heel sandal for a brilliant burst of color. It’s an unexpected, fun-yet-pulled-together look. Keep the rest of your outfit simple by sticking to solids when wearing color block heels. Wear them with bare legs to really show ‘em off …A Twiggy-esque mini dress would be a heavenly match.

The pedigree of all shoe-dom is threatening to steal the spotlight from all of the above: the metallic platform sandal. Sigh. No, you can never have too many. Yes, they’re practical because they’re a no-brainer way to glitz up an outfit that needs, well, glitzing up. Think outside the box and try metallic platforms with an all-white outfit. Yum! Now throw on some jewelry and you’ll look like you belong on a luxury yacht sipping a dry martini. I’ve been drooling over a pair of Christian Louboutin silver metallic platform peep-toes. Is my husband reading this? Isn’t there a holiday coming up like, uh, Flag Day?

Other hot shoe trends to watch: boho wedges, t-straps, ethnic flat sandals, platform sandals with multiple thick straps that cover a majority of the foot (often they criss-cross up the foot), rhinestone and jewel details, really out- there architectural heels and wedges that look like they’re from outer space, chunky, thick block heels (often wooden), wide ankle straps, motorcycle-inspired styles with hardware details, embossed leather, and super duper high heels that are skinnier on the bottom and wider on top.

If you’re hungry for more breaking shoe news, check out www.shoeblog.com for all things shoe related, including tips like why it’s never a good idea to window shop for shoes before a night of partying. Yeah, it’s that intense.

Delicious Dresses

Dresses in summer are so nice because they’re lightweight and comfortable while allowing you to make a statement. They’re a downright lifesaver during those humid New England dog days of summer. Even if you don’t think you’re a “dress” kinda gal, there’s a style for you out there. So be on the lookout now to make sure you’re stocked up when you’ll really want – and need – them.

Silk gypsy-chic dresses are your once-and-done dress solution this season. They’re lightweight, they’re colorful, they’re versatile, they’re silky smooth, and – ohyeah – they’re seductive. You can throw on a long gypsy dress for virtually any occasion and give off an effortless, cultured vibe. Don’t be shy, embrace the bright colors and interesting patterns. Halter-style and spaghetti strap dresses work beautifully for pulling off this impact-making look. Make sure you pack at least one gypsy dress for your spring getaway … you’ll be glad you did. Pair it with a flat simple sandal for day or a metallic heel for night. I have yet to meet a gypsy dress I didn’t like.

Silk dresses in general are huge this season. We’re seeing them in minimalistic styles and muted shades, too. Lightweight and airy, they effortlessly flow with you as you move. Jessica Alba donned a drapey, powder blue silk number on the cover on the spring Elle. Gaw-geous.

Want to celebrate your curves? Then you need one of the new hourglass dresses. They noticeably curve in and accent the waist, sometimes with a built-in belt, while balancing out your whole look. They can be playful or serious, depending on the style. One stand-out style recently spotted is a high necked silk twill in deep eggplant with lime green piping. The way the piping seemingly flowered out on the two bottom panels had a slimming effect. Another variation is a more snug style in a nylon-spandex mix. Fear not, the material pulls you in and keeps you there, while gently cinching in your waist and curving back out beneath. More structured dresses will really arc out on the sides, calling attention to an hourglass figure. Just make sure it fits nice and snug at the waist. Go for broke by wearing your hourglass dress with ultra-feminine shoes. Ooh la la!

Shifting gears completely, the time has come to release our inner jocks. Sporty dresses are making a loud comeback. Homerun details include collars, racer-backs, zippers, stretchy rayons and cottons, stripes, and even hoods. Short with clean lines, they have a graphic, daytime-friendly appeal. (Mel C. – a.k.a. Sporty Spice – had the right idea!) For more coverage, try a short sleeve style. And before you ask, yes you can wear your sporty dress with heels – just keep them on the chunkier side, no stilettos please. Or else keep it casual with flats or sneaks. This trend is light on the budget because you can score these dresses in the athletic department of any store. Or hell, go all out and take a trip to Dick’s Sporting Goods. Tennis racket not included.

Hollywood? Hollywood who? It’s all about Bollywood these days, especially in fashion. And after seeing Slumdog Millionaire, I think it’s safe to say the beautiful Frieda Pinto inspired us all. The updated Indian dress is a little less formal, but still has the traditional details like ornate embroidery and pretty scalloped edges. There may be some square reflective mirror-like pieces scattered on the top portion, while the bottom part is full of intense gold embroidery. Colors in Indian dresses are some of the most beautiful fashion has ever seen, from deep magenta to sunburst yellow. The intensity of the jewel tones is truly breathtaking. Whether your Bollywood dress is a one-shouldered sarong style done in silk or has a halter neck and dazzling details like beaded embellishments and cut-outs galore, these dresses are best reserved for nights out or big occasions, at least here in the good ol’ U.S. of A. They are so darn gorgeous, you’ll want to save them for special events anyway. You can check out a collection of Bollywood dresses available for purchase (or just inspiration!) at www.edressme.com/bollywood-dresses.html.

Although it’s not a dress, a jumpsuit is a retro-chic dress alternative. I’m the first to admit jumpsuits seem risque, but they’re worth checking out when done right. What’s new in the world of jumpsuits? Silky, drapey fabrics and eye-catching necklines. Stick to solids or you risk looking childlike. Most importantly, your jumpsuit should fit like it’s tailored to your body, which is probably the biggest challenge of all. When the planets align (and they occasionally do), your perfectly fitting solid silky jumpsuit with look so luxe and cool you’ll wonder why you questioned it in the first place.

Bangin’ Bottoms

When push comes to shove, bottoms are what we reach for most. Y’know, jeans as much as we can get away with, wonderful pants for our wonderful jobs, etc. etc. As you know, this routine can get real boring real fast. So we’re gonna spice things up … Expect the unexpected

Holy jeans! We haven’t seen this many ripped up jeans with holes and frays since the Kurt Cobain era. If you want in, buy a nice pre-ripped pair (available at many chain mall stores) or grab a beat-up pair already in your closet, roll up your sleeves, and get the job done yourself the old fashioned way with some scissors and sandpaper. (Tip: don’t rip below the knees). If you’re going to invest in one pair of ripped jeans this spring, get them in a light shade and in a flare cut. Flared, ripped jeans are the updated version of those from the grunge era, which were often tapered and even a little (eek!) acid-washed. This spring, it’s all about a solid, light blue shade with a few holes and areas of fraying. They should be fitted on top and flared comfortably on the bottom. Extra points if they’re also extra-long. Not only are ripped jeans great for casual days, but they work surprisingly well for nighttime as well. Pair them with a snug vintage tee and add a pair of metallic heels and all eyes will be on you.

Soft pants are the answer to season after season of business-like, factory line pants. Let’s face it, pants don’t exactly scream fun, and sometimes they make us, well, just want to scream. Here’s the deal: trendy soft pants are made of cotton or a cotton-linen mix, and they feature elements like tab-button closures on top and drawstring waists. They’re lightweight and can have oversized pockets and/or loosely rolled up bottoms with a tab that buttons up over the roll. Fear not, this new loose roll is the polar opposite of the tight-roll from yesteryear. Wear your slouchies with an interesting, eye-catching top for hipster appeal. A couple shirt ideas are a white cropped blouse with roll-up sleeves and an oversized bead necklace, or a bright one-shouldered top. Pretty much any shoe works with soft pants except sneakers, and you may want to avoid stilettos to avoid looking too Jenny from the Block. It’s possible you’ll like your new slouchy, chic pants so much you’ll find yourself reaching for them instead of jeans. Now that would be a first.

On a similar note, soft shorts are going strong this season too. Same deal as soft pants but they hit mid-thigh at longest. They possess the same loose, casual vibe as their longer counterpart. Don’t mistake casual for frumpy, though. Pair them with a tailored or belted shirt for a classy, pulled-together look that appears like you weren’t trying too hard. Even if you were.

We won’t tell.

Let’s talk skirts. Basic miniskirts have gone the way of the dodo bird this spring. The newest styles are anything but boring. Models are pounding the runways donning tiered minis, pleated minis, bubble minis, full minis, and even minis with feathers on the bottom! Wear your bubbly skirt with a fitted top to add a structural element. What’s really great about these flouncy skirts is they let you show off your legs without feeling too exposed (even though you’re showing the same amount of leg as that other miniskirt you always suspect is too short but wear anyway). Shoe-wise, experiment with flats or closed-toe slingbacks. You are too cute.

Head-Turning Tops

When we think of embellished tops, we tend to think of nighttime parties or even New Year’s Eve. This season, embellishments are sneaking into everyday tops and no one’s batting an eyelash. The twist on these new embellishments? They have a more funky than fancy vibe. In fact, some of the embellishments are broken, hammered, and even scattered in a no rhyme or reason manner. But they don’t have to have that rock ‘n roll edge, they can be perfectly placed in panels or circular patterns. The trick is to wear your embellished top as if you forgot the embellishments were even there, cuz you’re too cool to notice. Don’t overdo it in the hair and make-up department and you’re halfway there. Remember, these embellishments do refract a fair amount of light so there should be no need – or desire – to compete with that. Let your embellishments do the talking without saying a word. Still apprehensive? Test drive this trend with a long cotton tank top with a big embellished design in front like a sparkling lightening bolt.

So sick of solid shirts? Printed tops are hot this spring, as they were all winter. Now they’re taking the form of lightweight, peasant-y blouses with loose necklines and semi-sheer materials. They’re full of volume. You can wear them off the shoulder and/or cinched in at the waist if you want to add some sex appeal. The prints range from tribal patterns to bright floral prints. Simple black or white bottoms go well with this look, as do jeans.

Textured tops are a stylish alternative for ladies who want to do something cutting edge top-wise but aren’t feeling the print look. Organic fabrics are crinkled to form eye-catching creations. For example, a sheer T-shirt crumpled up with wrinkles is simply sexy. Texturing takes a simple, familiar shape and transform it into a memorable look. Invigorating!

Pack your binoculars and Indiana Jones hat; we’re going on a safari. This season’s safari trend really embraces this season’s global theme. From rich, vibrant shades to animal prints and – again – tribal patterns, this look is age-appropriate for all yet always interesting. For safari virgins, try a classic khaki shirt with a low-cut collar and tuck it in. Soft shorts would go nicely. Now throw on a long swingy necklace and add wooden heels. There, that was easy. When you’re ready for more, experiment with belts, cinched waists, and gathered fabrics. For you more seasoned, animalistic ladies, go for a bold print that’s as untamable as you. Dots, stripes, and zig zag patterns pack a powerful punch, especially when done in rich hues like moss green, burnt orange and cocoa brown. On a side note, animal prints done the safari way come off more feminine than wild. Take a peek at the latest tribal/ethnic looks on the runway at www.fashionising.com/trends/b—Tribal-Ethnic-Trend-SpringSummer-2009-1566.html.

We’ve covered silk dresses. Now let’s jump to another way you can rock this trend: silk tops. Go for the unexpected with a racerback silk tank in a pastel color, sweetened further with a ruffle in front of the same color. Wear it with soft pants or jeans and any kind of high heel your heart desires. Flirty and dressy, it’s the perfect date outfit.

What to cover up with while going from Limo to Lobby on a breezy summer evening? Why, a structured blazer, of course. The new blazers go beyond basic black and are cropping up in all kinds of fresh-picked spring colors. They have open v-necks that go down to one or two button closures. Not ones to be wimpy, their shoulders stand out in a prominent way and their lapels mean business. Shorter styles hit the waist while longer ones are at least slightly fitted at the waist and extend a bit below it. You can wear your structured jacket with pretty much anything you want. The only rule is, don’t feel obliged to only wear it with dressy outfits. These blazers look every bit as good – if not better – when styled as a fun, flirty look.

Ethnic Accessories

You’ve come so far, you can’t turn back now! Every Fashionista needs to finish off her outfit with a little something, whether it be a silver earring or a satin clutch. Here’s a rundown of the hottest accessories of the season.

The major trend in jewelry is … drumroll please … colored stones and gems! You can have a lot of fun with this one. Remember the emerald earrings Angelina Jolie wore to the Oscars? That’s the look. Get your hands on earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings with gemstones like ruby and amethyst. Of course imitations are more than ok – Either way, they add a bold pop of color, and that’s as real as it gets.

Speaking of bold, the necklace trend for summer is to layer, layer, and then layer some more. One look that’s easy to pull off is a multi-layered beaded necklace resting atop a simple white tank. Pretty much any style necklace will also do. Tip: Experiment with layering multiple necklaces, even if you think the styles don’t match. Necklaces are getting wild this season, and it’s all fair game.

The tribe has spoken. This season’s tribal influence comes across clearly in exotic, worldly necklaces. Scope out necklaces that feature elements like coins, keys, gold nuggets and exotic animals such as elephants.

While hoop earrings are always in style, this season they have a twist. Hoops updates include details like tiny glass beads, wooden balls, and dangling gemstones. It’s that ethnic spin we’re seeing again, and we like it.

What’s new in handbags? Well, as always, they rock! While some – gasp – smaller sized purses have been spotted here and there in Hollywood recently, the Big Bag is still going strong. Ideally you should have one big statement “It Girl” bag. It can be a simple, dark brown slouchy style with silver hardware or a wild purple python number. Or anything in between. If you’re got a hankering for a new bag, consider a creamy off-white bag for summer.

An underused way to give your outfit a new look is by adding a belt. I’m doing my part by getting the word out: Ladies, experiment with belts! This season, the skinny belt is back. Whether it’s a dress or a loose peasant top, try belting that sucker up and see watcha think.

We’ve covered all the summer trends. Now your mission is to seek out and cover your bod with these hot trends. Unlike during this past winter’s blizzards, you can once again live to dress, not dress to live! Have a safe and happy summer. You’ve earned it.

Top 5 Men’s Looks for the Season

1. Neckscarves. They’re not for the faint of fashion. To up the masculine factor, tuck the extra length of the two sides protruding downwards into your shirt. Great way to add a splash of color and a cool retro vibe.

2. The double-breasted jacket. If you don’t have one, get one in a pale shade. It’s a relaxed yet dressy, sexy must-have for your summer wardrobe. Who could ask for more?

3. Linen pants with shiny oxfords. The contrast is fresh yet traditional

4. Pink! It takes a real man to wear it. Try out a crisp pink dress shirt. What the devil to wear it with? Beige or grey pants … and confidence. Both of which you already have.

5. The long sleeved polo. Sure it’s a classic, that’s why we love it. Try a fitted cut paired with soft, comfortable pants.

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Music and Fashion…One Love Affair That’s Gonna Last
By Kara Olson

In a world where it seems like everyone is breaking up and no one can make it work, there is one relationship that will never get old, never go out of style. And that is the love affair between music and fashion. From The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper fatigues to Christina Aguilera’s leather chaps, musicians have always understood the importance of presenting an image, a full package. So it would make sense that these rock gods and goddesses not only inspire their adoring fans through their music, but through their clothes as well.

Looking to today’s most popular music artists for inspiration, let’s highlight the best ways to show your musical taste through the clothes on your back (and front).

Hip-Hop/ Rap

To stand out in the world of rap and hip-hop, it’s all about being funkier and more daring than the person next to you. This is not a place for the shy and meek. But we have come a very long way from track suits, rope chains, and bucket hats a la LL Cool J.

For a modern inspiration, look to the reigning princess of hip-hop ~ Rihanna. Her mix of strong and sexy, cool and funky, has created a new spin for hip-hop style. To get this look, start with the cropped motorcycle jacket. This may sound pricey, but you can find all different styles and colors at Forever 21 for under $50. Put this over a low cut tank top and you’ve already got your strong and sexy. On the bottom try either dark or gray jeans with high top sneakers – a major cool element. Now to finish it off, throw on a long gold necklace and gold hoop earrings.

Rock

The women of the rock world defy the idea that it’s a man world and we just live in it. They are strong and tough, and aren’t afraid to show it. One of the best rock styles to come around in a very long time belongs to the lead singer of Paramore, Hayley Williams. She has found a way to be as hard and rough as any of the boys without loosing her femininity.

First task – search high and low at vintage shops, consignment stores, the Salvation Army for old concert t-shirts, an element that will completely make this look authentic rock. Now add black jeans (because the darker wash will lend a harder look) and studded belt. And one thing rock girls are for sure not afraid of is taking risks, especially with their looks, so play with vibrant hair and make-up. Try bright purples and blues for your eye shadows and a blacks/dark browns for your liners. And if fire engine red hair color seems a little too risky, look into colored hair clip-ins so it’s not too permanent.

R&B

R&B music is all about being sultry and smooth. The women of this world know what it takes to command a stage and embrace the spotlight. If there were ever a word to describe these glamorous songstresses it would be…diva. I’m not saying to achieve this look you need to throw your cell phone at a friend’s head when she brings you tap water instead of bottled, but there is an air of confidence that helps pull off this glittering look.

So for inspiration here, we look to the diva of the day (arguable decade), Beyonce. When it comes to clothes, Beyonce is not afraid of color or shine, sparkle or jewels, short skirts or high heels.
For this dramatic look, start with the dress: try a bright colored one or sequined mini. Now with a piece like this, it would be easy for this outfit to come off cheap rather than luxurious. So add a black tuxedo jacket and black tights to avoid showing too much skin. Add drama with big diamond earrings (or the affordable version – cubic zarconias), a cocktail ring, sky high heels, and a smoky eye.

Pop

Pop princesses of the past have been known to be very outrageous and over the top when it comes to their fashion choices ~ Britney’s yellow python ring a bell? But at its core, pop music appeals to a wide variety of fans, and these artists to some extent need to remain relatable to these fans. One princess who has appeared to remain quite normal in the face of rising fame is Kelly Clarkson. She has a simple, comfortable style that any girl could handle and feel great in.

Try a fitted boyfriend tee, low-rise ripped jeans, and Converse sneakers. To add a little chic, add layers of long chain necklaces. And your make-up and hair should be as fresh as your clothes, so add bronzer to the apples of your cheeks and dry your hair while it’s twisted in a bun to create soft waves, and you will look like you spent the day at the beach.

Hardcore/ Metal

The name of this music says it all. It is extreme, it is loud, it is hardcore. And although fans of this style could seem to care less about fashion or how they look, they do have a fashion sense all their own. One female with an excellent metal sense is Otep Shamaya, lead singer of Otep. She commands attention with her brass and brutal outfits.

Black and leather. No, I’m not talking about the dress code for the local S&M chapter; I’m talking about the two necessities to a metal outfit. Wear a black t-shirt with a black leather mini skirt, black tights, and black combat boots. And the black theme doesn’t end with the clothes ~ heavy black eye shadow and eye liner will complete this rockin’ look.

Country

This look no longer begins and ends with pigtails, plaid shirts, and Daisy Dukes. A country girl is sweet and soft, the quintessential girl next door. She knows how to dress flirty without being overtly sexual. And someone in the music biz who has perfected this style is Carrie Underwood. She has the perfect mix of sass and sweet.

This look is all about being girly, so try a flowy lace top in pink or an eyelet tank in white with light-washed jeans. There are some stereotypical cowgirl pieces that when done right won’t look too costumey, so throw on some brown cowboy boots and curl your hair to create some nice southern volume.

No matter what you prefer to listen to or what you like to wear, music and fashion are both all about expressing yourself. Both allow for a freedom to find out who you are. So don’t stress, don’t try too hard. Experiment. Take risks. Get inspired. Have fun. Embrace your inner rockstar!