Today’s columnists are freshman Katie Christoff and sophomore Mickey Shuey, both journalism majors. Katie likes bright colors, fun accessories and loves to go all-out when it comes to getting dressed up. Mickey is a self-described go-getter with his attire and believes that a collared shirt is always a winner, even though his track record with women proves otherwise.
Summer break is quickly approaching, and that means it’s time to go home and attempt to have half as much fun as you do on a daily basis here at UD! While you’re making plans and catching up with friends from high school, you’ll want to impress them with how great you’re looking these days.
Have no fear, because UD Street Style is here to help. We’re here to show you the hottest summer trends for the ladies and gentlemen of the University of Dayton community. Have a fun and fashionable three months!
Women
Brightly colored denim. Jeans and jean shorts are summer essentials and this year there’s a bright twist on the classic items. Red, orange, yellow or turquoise denim will spice up any outfit. Wear them with a plain white top or take the trend a step further and wear them with another bold color.
Lace. Lacy tops and dresses are a huge trend this summer and this romantic style is versatile. It can be dressed up or down with the right accessories. For a more casual look, try a brightly colored lace top with fun jewelry. For a dressier look, try a top or dress in a neutral color with minimal jewelry. Since some lace is sheer, another fun way to embrace this trend is to layer a sheer lacy top over a bandeau or camisole of a similar color.
Tribal prints. Funky prints are also in fashion this season, including tribal prints. This may not be as easy to put together, so for best results wear one tribal printed piece and keep everything else solid colors. Try a printed skirt with a plain T-shirt in a corresponding color and add some simple gold jewelry for flair.
Sundresses. Some fashions never go out of style. A sundress is a summer wardrobe staple and an extremely easy way to look polished and fashionable. Dress it down by adding a cute cardigan and flat sandals, or dress it up by adding some jewelry and heels. You can even apply any of the above trends to this look! No matter how you wear it, a sundress is a timeless classic and can be worn for almost any occasion.
Men
Jersey trend (don’t do it!) Generally speaking, jerseys are best saved for game day or, better yet, the closet. You look like you’re preparing to throw your buddy’s barstool out the window each time you take a step. Besides, wearing a Drew Brees replica jersey when you’re 5 feet 7 inches tall and weigh 250 pounds doesn’t make you a quarterback. Yeah, it’s nice to support the team, but wearing mesh each time you go into Buffalo Wild Wings isn’t necessary.
Dress for success. Business professional or business casual? In either case, a pair of nicely threaded suits can go a long way, both in professionalism and for your ego. Baby blue goes well in any situation, but the color of the summer will likely be an almond or beige. When deciding, stick with a two-button jacket made from breathable fabric, like cotton, seersucker or linen.
Roll up the sleeves. For casual work environments or when out in public, light-colored shirts with simple patterns are the way to go. Throw on a neutral-colored button-down shirt, roll up the sleeves so they end about three inches below the elbow and match it with some nice khaki pants.
Tip your cap. The fedora is back. For those days when you want to look your best, throw a lid on to top it all off. A shallow-brimmed straw fedora will send a message that you’re serious, but still have a flashy side.
With all the bright colors, funky prints and new looks that are popular this summer, it’s easy to get creative when putting together outfits. Armed with this new knowledge of summer 2012 hits and misses, hit the mall and have some fun coordinating your summer wardrobe!
