This past week, temperatures spiked to nearly 110 degrees in major cities up and down the East coast. I didn’t even have to go to Brooklyn to feel like I was in a scene straight out of “Do the Right Thing.” It got real out here… Real Hot. Though I may only be speaking for myself when I say that I’d rather be more-than-scantily clad and perched in front of a booming A.C. system for the next few months, there are actually a few trends that make the idea of getting dressed in this weather just a bit more exciting.
Here are a 5 fashionable items that are heating up the city streets these days!
1. All Sheer Everything
If you can’t go nude, why not allude? (Y’all can’t even lie – that was mad catchy, no!? lol) Sheer garments are about the closest we’re gonna get to wearing our bikinis out in public. Unless, of course, you’re in a city like Miami where you can actually get away with that if you choose. No comment. Whether it’s a flowy blouse or maxi skirt, let the air in and all inhibitions out. Show some skin, why dontcha? Just a peek.
– Kimchi Blue, “V-Inset Crinkle Blouse”, $59
– ASOS, Sheer Maxi Skirt with Pleats, $75
– Forever21, Sheer Shirtdress w/ Belt, $20
2. Neon Crossbody Bags
There really isn’t much need to be lugging around oversized, bulky, handbags in this heat. Unless, of course, you plan on bringing tupperware to the cookout, if ya know what I mean (grocery shopping is overrated, anyhow, *wink wink*). Crossbody bags allow you to pack light and keep your hands free to juggle that third plate of potato salad and second glass of sangria. This summer, we’re seeing them in all highlighter neon colors. Talk about a statement accessory!
– Rebecca Minkoff, “Neon Mini 5-Zip”, $195
– The Cambridge Satchel Company, “Fluoro Satchel”, $155
– Marc Jacobs, “Natasha” Shoulder Bag, $438
3. DIY Denim Shorts
Whether you decide to buy ’em or make ’em, Do-It-Yourself short shorts have claimed their spot on the summer scene. Studs, frays, and rips, oh my! Bleach, flaps, and even dip-dye. To save a few dollars, try hitting up your local Salvation Army and buying a pair of old Levi’s. The possibilities are endless with a pair of scissors, hot glue gun, and other random household trinkets.
– UNIF, “Stunna Studded Shorts”, $84
– River Island, “Studded Denim Hotpants”, $58
– TopShop, “Petite Flag Print Denim Shorts”, $68
4. Mini-Maxi Skirts
I really didn’t know how to feel about this trend at first. Honestly, the first time I saw a girl rocking a hi-low hem skirt I thought something had gone awry! Escalators get tricky sometimes, ya know? But now, I’m all IN! The new wave of asymmetrical mini-maxi skirts is a great way to show off your legs but still leave something to the imagination. It’s also a great way to wear an actual skirt in the summertime without the backs of your thighs melting into overheated leather car seats or subway benches. See! Fashion that multitasks. You’re welcome.
– BCBGeneration, Asymmetrical Skirt, $68
– Tylie, “Chiffon High-Low Skirt”, $180
5. Bralettes (w/ High-Waisted Bottoms)
Although I wear them on a daily, I don’t too much care for bras; constricting. But in the summer, I don’t too much care for shirts, either; clingy. So, naturally, the happy medium would be a bra that can double as a shirt. The fewer the layers – the better. These cutesy bralettes, when paired with high waisted shorts or skirts give just a hint of mid-drift without you feeling subconscious about being a few (several) crunches away from that 6-pack you were working towards. This look can be dressed up with a lightweight blazer and pencil skirt, or all the way down with a plaid shirt around the waist and a pair of Jordans circa Rih-Rih at Coachella. Whatever suits your fancy. Just promise us that you’ll make sure the girls are properly supported and fully concealed, mmkay??? We’ve got a deal.
– Sparkle and Fade, “Lace Bralette”, $29
– TopShop, “Harness Microfiber Corset”, $60
– TopShop, “Denim Bra Top With Love Heart Patch”, $41