By Fashion Apothecary Design Co.

Global warming, temperature swings and strange phenomena (an earthquake in the Midwest!) have dictated that seasonal fashion lines are no longer aligned with the traditional notion of seasons. Talk of seasonal temperatures, especially here in southern California is obsolete. Gone are the days of no white after Labor Day or before Easter. With our fashion influences coming from around the globe - and most of our lives spent in climate-controlled environments - weather is almost inconsequential when it comes to our desire to indulge in summer attire.

With dark colors - black, eggplant, brown and navy - dominating winter, and brights – from pastels to neon - closing in on spring, its time to get a head start on summer whites and white accents. White feels pure and clean, like a fresh start, and we can probably all use that at least once a season! Think elegance, ruffle, crisp linen, clean lines sweeping away the retro and vintage looks of the past season. Fresh and airy, light and free is in store.

If you’re not yet ready to embrace white, slow the transition with a classic French springtime look - nautical stripes. This looks works especially well for women, but can look somewhat cheesy on men, especially if you don’t have the Jean Paul Gaultier personality to back it up. Unlike last seasons skirts and tops separates, this summer opt for a practical, versatile and very romantic maxi dress. This is one item of clothing that can flatter and take you from a walk in the park, to the beach and finally end at a cocktail party.

Floaty, voluminous, tiered, clingy or draped (a la Rami from Project Runway) the maxi dress can take you from casual to glamorous. Super long dresses look sexy and feminine, and can be worn with flats, chunky wedges for extra height, day or night. Comfortable, glamorous and easy to wear, key accessories can heighten the dramatic silhouette created by the dress.
Beware, like at the amusement park, maxi dresses have minimum height requirements, so don’t get caught trying to fake it! If you know this dress is not for you, cute mini skirts are always fun and flirty for summer.