Patch Quarterly Trend Fashion Report

After a few too many weeks of waiting to push my tired coats to the back to the closet, summer has arrived; and as always the sun breathes life into coastal New England. With the energetic hum of the season emerges social invitations to coastal events along with the thirst for a little R&R. Examining the latest summer trends can inspire creativity; leaving you looking chic and feeling confident.

In true fashion form, reinventing a decade worth of clothing trends is always relevant. This season we relive this summer is the 70's with a modernized bohemian undertone. The silhouette boasts long gypsy like skirts, wide leg pants, and cropped t-shirts.

At the forefront of this trend lies the maxi dress. It can be worn day or night, a universal garment lending itself to all sizes and ages. Floral prints, shades of orange, fringe and denim help to define this trend as it eases its way back into relevance. Peace, Love and Platforms my friends.

True summer elegance is never expressed more beautifully than an ensemble made up purely of white. This minimalist trend is gains new life when futuristic construction and defined lines are created using progressive natural fibers such as Tencel and Cotton.

The white suit has always been a staple of summer style. This year, forget what you know about cumbersome suit construction and seek out a soft, more relaxed substitution. Finding fabrics that complement each other is peril when attempting to coordinate white garments. I find that knotted linen, or crochet detail is perfection when trying to offset a flat fabric. When you can’t seem to find the right balance, go a few shades darker with one garment and work within monochromatic tones. The absolute ‘must- have’ accessory to pull off this look; a sun kissed glow.

For those of you who look at summer as an opportunity to brighten up your everyday wardrobe, this bold trend is calling your name. Color blocking may be tricky, but the statement your outfit makes is well worth the challenge of pairing brightly colored frocks together until you find just the right balance.Furthermore, there is a lot of personal pride that comes along with it. For guaranteed electrifying success try coupling turquoise and red, or yellow and purple.

Working with different fabrics is a must, however make sure they complement each other. For a bright and lustrous appearance, turn to fabrics that reflect light such as silk and satin. For a more demure and casual appearance, turn to fabrics that absorb light like cottons and knits. Don't be afraid to add another dimension to your ensemble by adding a statement handbag or overconfident pair of shoes.

Pulling your summer look together should be effortless and reflect not only your surroundings, but yourself. Finding a balance between following a trend and staying true to one’s self is not always easy but it can be mastered but I find that even when exploring new fashion frontiers I begin to stray from that which expresses my own personal style, I mix in a piece of my wardrobe that defines me and I feel like myself again. Whether it a family heirloom, or a pair of tennis shoes you have worn into nearly nothing, remember that things such as these are always in fashion because they make you feel like an individual and being you is always in style.