Suit Up!

Summer is officially in full swing, and while many of us (myself included) have been avoiding bathing suit shopping like the plague, swim season has inevitably crept up on us yet again. Here's the good news: this year's swimsuit trends offer several flattering alternatives to the itsy-bitsy string bikinis we're so used to seeing. Dive into one of these stylish suits, and we promise everyone will be too busy praising your impeccable fashion sense to notice that you may not have lost those few extra pounds.

The One-Piece: We know what you're thinking: only a lifeguard would be caught poolside sporting such a frumpy frock. Well, think again. This season's one-pieces are a far cry from the red Speedo, allowing you to show a little skin while avoiding any wardrobe malfunctions. Try a sexy deep-v halter or backless suit for just the right amount of coverage, or opt for strapless and tank styles in fun prints (which can double as tops!).

The Monokini: With their strategically placed cut-outs and sexy straps, these suits may even be hotter than those barely-there bikinis. Keyholes, bondage strips and peek-a-boo cutaways emphasize your figure while still leaving a little to the imagination. Try one of these unique suits if you're looking to grab some attention without letting it all hang out- we guarantee you'll stand out in a crowd full of bikinis.

The Retro Two-Piece: Making quite a comeback from the 1950s, these high-waisted bikinis are pinup-girl chic with a modern twist. The bottoms hit at the smallest part of your waist, making you look thinner while still baring a little midriff. Glam up this vintage-inspired suit with red lips and gold jewelry- so Marilyn Monroe-esque!

—SAMANTHA MEUX

Summer Trend: The Floppy Sun Hat

It is not often you find a trend that can be appropriately worn by both you and your grand mother. But behold this summer, you can! With a floppy sun hat you cannot only close this generational gap, but protect yourself from those harmful UV rays in the chicest way imaginable. An easy accessory to wear with any outfit, pair it with a floral romper or a casual t-shirt and shorts. From beach-goers to stylish college students, it seems everyone can find a way to incorporate this summer time trend.

—TRISHA BELLGOWAN

The Voice

When this show premiered at the end of April, it took the reality TV world by storm. Four famous musicians (Adam Levine, Cee-Lo Green, Christina Aguiliera and Blake Shelton) compete against each other by finding teams of talented new singers. The show began with the blind auditions where the judges faced their backs to the singers and picked their team on just "the voice." Now, this Tuesday on NBC at 9 pm, after weeks of competition, the final four singers are left to perform and the winner will be crowned Wednesday at 8 pm. If you haven't heard any of the singers yet, heres a video of one of my favorites Dia Frampton from Team Blake singing "Heartless" by Kayne West.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U8zwUa1XquA

VIMPick: Look for Less

Wedges are a great summer item but not when they cost $365 like the Stuart Weitzman wedges that have been seen on Gossip Girl and celebrities alike this season! While looking for shoes myself, I found these wedges at DSW for $49.95. They are remarkably similar to the Stuart Weitzman pair and even have similar detailing on the strap.



Ours:


Theirs:




—MANDILYN KERR

Your Hair vs. The Summer

Summer can be a trying time for preserving well-tamed hair. The recurrent harsh elements of summer such as UV rays, chlorine, and humidity can easily damage and weaken your locks. These products will help preserve color and moisture, despite the elements.

Oscar Blandi At Home Salon Glaze: This glaze prolongs the life of color treated hair and brightens natural hair color. While the olive oil and macadamia oil boost silkiness and shine, the glaze also contains sun inhibitors and antioxidants to protect hair from the negative effects of the environment. It can be used daily, mixed in with your conditioner to boost shine, or can be used weekly as a three minute treatment. (Sephora, $25)

Bumble and bumble Quenching Complex: Bumble and bumble’s trendy brand encourages users to mix their vast array of products and find what works best based on their hair type and needs. Their Quenching Complex is a must-have for preserving soft, shiny hair of all types. This leave-in conditioner/detangler provides protection, moisture, and replenishment for overworked or dry hair suffering from heat styling or the environment and can be applied daily. (amazon.com, $25)

Oscar Blandi Pronto Colore Root Touch-Up and Highlighting Pen: Those who opt for coloring their locks know that re-coloring too frequently is another source of damage. To fend off double the damage this summer, consider trying a root touch-up pen. There are several different versions of this concept in aerosol sprays, but this highlighting pen is more environmentally friendly and helps concentrate where you want the color. Free of ammonia and peroxide (unlike many sprays), it conditions hair with gentle nutrients while perfectly hiding roots. (Sephora, $23)

—STEPHANIE WEBER

The Shatter Craze!

When Katy Perry released her collection of nail polishes with O.P.I. back in February, the black shatter polish from her collection instantly "shattered" the beauty world, selling out of stores in the first week. With the popularity of the black shatter, O.P.I. then released the silver shatter at the beginning of this summer with their "Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides" Collection. But now, we can all shatter our nails in five more additional shades. Along with the black and silver, O.P.I. released this month shatter polishes in white, navy, turquoise, red and blue. Apply one coat of shatter over two completely dry coats of polish and now you too can achieve this stylish textured look!

O.P.I Shatter Polish, $8, opi.com

—CARLY HILL

Summer Wardrobe Must-Haves

Now that the weather is finally starting to reflect the date on the
calendar, it’s time to make sure your wardrobe is set for the season!

Summer scarves: These lightweight wraps are an excellent way to add a
punch of color to any outfit. They go great with anything from
sundresses to sweaters. Many summer scarves have delicate details such
as lace and shimmer, which are most visible when paired with a less
dramatic top. ($14.99, express.com)

Sundresses: A staple to any summer-loving girl’s closet. Sundresses
are the perfect way to embrace the warm season. Dress them up with
accessories such as cardigans, jewelry, and wedges and you’ll be
dressed to impress at any event. However, sundresses can look just as
great standing alone without the embellishments for a day at the pool
or a gathering with friends. ($45, aerie.com)

Shoes: The crochet trend is on the rise this summer and can be spotted
in many variants and styles. We love the delicate look of crochet
shoes and how comfortable they are. (Rocket Dog, $40, zappos.com)

Watches: A watch is the perfect way to add character to any outfit. We
love WEwood’s environmentally friendly beige wooden watch and their
pledge to plant a tree for each watch purchased. ($119, we-wood.us)

Add your own creative touches to these ideas and you’re sure to be
well dressed this summer!

—STEPHANIE WEBER