Want to know what’s trending this summer? Accessories. Anything gingham, straw, tassels, and fringe.
I admit it, I love to shop. (Especially for bargains.) You may have admired some of these accessories online or in local shops. And if you recall some familiar trends from last summer, you’re not going crazy. They carried over. And that’s great news, especially if you’re a mom and don’t have a lot of time to shop.
Pom poms, tassels, and straw totes
Pom poms, tassels, and straw totes are popping up everywhere. Thankfully, they come in all shapes, sizes and price points. Tory Burch may have a to-die-for straw clutch with fringe and colorful tassels that costs as much as my first apartment, but you can get a similar one from Francesca’s for under $30. I found an adorable straw clutch on Poshmark that’s trendy but still sophisticated. And at $36, I definitely didn’t break the bank.
Gingham
Another style statement that will probably take you back to your childhood this summer? Gingham. Ah, yes, gingham. Cute, preppy checks mixed with solids and patterns are making a huge splash this season. Gingham heels, espadrilles, belts and scarves. You can find them in navy, black, baby blue, pink, green and even picnic poppy. There are also gingham dresses, blouses, and shorts out there too, but you have to know how to wear it and what to pair it with.
When it comes to wearing patterns like gingham, take the advice of Parisian women: Don’t over-do it. I received a fun book for Mother’s Day from my cousin that shares secrets on how to dress like a Parisian. So showing up at a summer cocktail party in a gingham dress with matching gingham shoes? You’ll look more like a picnic table than a fashion Do. But pairing a gingham blouse with white summer pants and colorful tassel earrings? Hello, now you’re talking.
My cousin and I went shopping the other day for cute summer sandals and couldn’t resist a pair of Michael Kors gingham heels from Macy’s. They’re surprisingly comfortable and perfect for girls’ night out, weddings or summer parties. The best part is they add just the right amount of gingham without making you look like a picnic table.
Tassels and Fringe
And speaking of another summer accessory staple, fringe and tassels are still in. Who doesn’t love tassel and fringe earrings? I recently purchased a pair from Rhode Island online fashion boutique FabFinds by Ainsley and Chase owned by fashionable Rhode Islander Pamela Freeman (who I met at a party recently).
And as far as tassels and fringe go, they’re not just for your ears. Tassels and fringe are everywhere. You can find the trend dangling from beach cover-ups, blouses, summer dresses, necklaces, and even beach totes. Tassel key chains are perfect for placing on your beach bag or clutch for instant trend effect. They come in fabric, leather, and oh yes, pleather. I’d stick with fabric tassels or pom poms for the summer and save the pleather ones for the fall. If you don’t have time to shop, look for similar items at a craft store and re-create the look on a dime. I found fabric fringe wine glass holders at a garage sale last summer for $4 and clip them on my purses all the time.
Have fun. Be a smart shopper. Stick with these fun and not too expensive trends and you’ll definitely be styling this summer. xo
