Push Back Fall!

Egads, Elle magazine is already previewing the fall collections. Seems come fall we'll be seeing jewel tones, lots of coats, yet more ombre and a sort of allover Hitchcock-heroine-meets-Amy-Winehouse-herion-chic. As much of a fashionista as I am, I say stop the presses! Summer just arrived...let us enjoy it. It was only last week that I broke out my flirty sundresses, strappy flat sandals and lip gloss. I'm not ready for swing coats, emerald-green floor-length dresses and ankle boots. What's next, Christmas decorations?

This shell bracelet from MoonRiverPearls.com embodies easy summer style. Pick one up today! It's on sale!

How to Wear Gladiator Sandals

Love the new gladiator sandals...totally hot for summer...but unsure how to wear them? Simple is best with these detailed cuties. You want to let the sandals shine. Pair them with a simple sheath or mini-dress, or perhaps a simple A-line skirt, and you're good to go. (Pants will compete.) Keep accessories to a minimum...choose pearl studs and a pearl pendant or a few gold bangles. You don't want to overdo more than one trend at a time.

Get these DV by Dolce Vita gladiator sandals for $60 at www.Piperlime.com

Summer Jewelry: Turquoise is HOT!

Summer's almost here, which means it's time to lighten up your look. Mother of pearl, pearl, turquoise and coral are all hot right now, mainly because they evoke images of sandy beaches and sultry summer fiestas. I especially love turquoise for its ability to punch up even the simplest, monochrome sheath.

Two of my fave statement-making pieces:
Lori Watts for Moon River Pearls' designer turquoise necklace. $49.99 http://www.moonriverpearls.com/.

AKNY Signature Lion Turquoise Bangle. $59.99. http://www.lordandtaylor.com/.

A Few of My Early Summer Favorites

Looking to punch up your wardrobe without spending a lot of dough? Here are the top trends of the summer season, and where to get the look. In making my choices, I haven't sacrificed quality for affordability, but where the price is right, who am I to complain?

Top five summer fashion trends:

• Hoop earrings, Moon River Pearls.com, $35, http://www.moonriverpearls.com/product/648-aventurine_and_sterling_silver_hoops_.aspx


• Babydoll dress, Victoria's Secret, $29, http://www2.victoriassecret.com/commerce/application/prodDisplay/?namespace=productDisplay&origin=onlineProductDisplay.jsp&event=display&prnbr=8P-220940&page=1&cgname=OSCLODRSBRA&rfnbr=4618


• Perfectly-fitting, one-piece bra swimsuit, Athleta, $79, http://www.athleta.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=4064&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=567&iSubCat=590&iProductID=4064


• Gladiator sandals, Piperlime, $99, http://www.piperlime.com/browse/product.do?cid=40126&pid=584819&scid=584819002


• Big, bright bag, Bodenusa.com, $148, http://www.bodenusa.com/col.asp?segname=Women&styid=AM055&segid=6&gpname=Bags&desname=Grainy+Leather+Handbag&gpid=2&gen=1#jf14

Beachwear Fantasy

So many catalogues, so little...money.

Besides Boden USA, one of my favorite catalogues is Athleta, and they've got some great looks for summer. I can't wait to get up and slide on a skirt and tank rather than bulky layers of wool.

Here are my top picks. Accessorize with flip flops, a pearl pendant and some cute studs, and you're ready to go:
Swim dress, pictured, $79.
Burnout beach skirt, $79
Tissue sweatshirt, $68
Gauze tidal skirt, 49

To see the looks, visit www.athleta.com