Issue date: 6/25/09 Section: Features

On her: Top by Gibson Tank; cropped jeans by Joe's Jeans; shoes by Charlotte Russe [Click to enlarge]

On him: Swimsuit by Polo Ralph Lauren On her: Swimsuit by Gianni Bini; sunglasses by Ralph [Click to enlarge]

On her: Dress by Chelsea and Violet [Click to enlarge]

With the blazing Texas heat, it stands to reason that there is some serious need for fashion updating. Our wardrobes from the fall and spring generally do not accommodate the necessities of 100-plus degree temperatures. This summer offers great style potential whether you are hitting the beach, enjoying a summer day or going out on the town.

Sometimes it's hard to notice the differences in swimsuits from season to season, but there are some noticeable fashion shifts that you might want to take note of. Two main trends in swimsuits this summer are halters and bandeaus. The halter swimsuits vary from your typical triangle string bikinis to the slightly more conservative with broader straps, both equally stylish. These are considered classics and will probably not go out of style for the next few seasons. The latest trend in bathing suits is the bandeau style. The straps differ from suit to suit but the overall concept is the same. The bandeau is a ruched, or scrunched, band that wraps around and then either ties around your neck, has spaghetti straps or no straps at all. You can see this style in almost any store or magazine. It's very chic and vogue and flatters almost any figure.

A common trend for summer casual wear is lightweight dresses. This season is based on extremes: the mini and the maxi. The allocation of the younger demographic wearing minis has now extended across the ages and is popular for everyone. Mini dresses sweep the malls in prints and solids to show off that summer tan. The newest style is the maxi, the long dress that extends down to the ankles with an empire top and elongating bottom. This trend is commonly paired with the newest gladiator sandals.

What summer would be complete without summer dates? Without the ideal outfit summer romance would be dull indeed. This season mixes up some old styles with new twists. Instead of regular jeans, stores are stocking crops, shorter than jeans and longer than Capri pants. Cropped jeans are multi-functional and can be worn with heels for date night or sandals for daytime shopping. To be prepared for indoor and outdoor settings, layering is a great option for tops. Sleeveless shirts are the most comfortable for being outside. The style of the top can make all the difference. The illustrated bib style is flattering and dressier. Other styles, like floral prints or the trapeze cut, look more laid back and casual. Lightweight jackets transform these ensembles into something that could be warmer for a cold movie theater. The greatest thing about these fashions is the ease of mix-and-match by which a few small pieces can make several outfits, great for saving money and looking great.

No matter what your plans are this summer, vacationing or just summer school, be sure that you visit the malls and go everywhere in style. What could a good first impression do for you?

Megan Clark is a sophomore English major.

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