1. Cocktail Rings An oversized, glamorous cocktail ring can transport any look from day to evening—and the bigger and bolder, the better. I love Roberta Chiarelli’s 50-carat faux-emerald Angie’s Ring ($48). The red-carpet elegance will surely get you noticed! For extra pop, add the faux-emerald Angie’s Earrings ($68, pictured left) to the mix. Dana Holmes, gift guru for Gifts.com, says, “Cocktail rings have been on-trend for the past few years and there isn’t any sign of that coming to an end. Brushed gold with colorful stones are especially popular and dress up even the most casual summer outfit.” Her pick? The stunning faux sapphire and gold American Glamour Badgley Mischka Multistone Cocktail Ring ($24.16).
2. Cocktail Rings Maria Vasilevsky, co-owner of Boston style agency Stilista, suggests the Jojo Loves You Lion Ring ($30, pictured left). She says, “Stilista adores the lion-head cocktail ring for being an edgy statement accessory that doesn’t take over the entire look. Gold is especially hot for summer, as it contrasts beautifully with tanned skin. Cocktail rings are easy to wear, and the lion symbol is powerful and sexy. We recommend wearing it with a breezy sundress to juxtapose its toughness, or add it to an evening cocktail number with long, dangly earrings.”
3. Stripes They’re everywhere! Inspired by nautical flags and classic nautical wear, everyone from Jil Sander to Fendi showed stripes on the spring-summer runways. The stripes ranged from bold and bright to demure and flirty, so it’s no surprise that we’re seeing stripes on almost every garment imaginable this season. The Forever 21 Nautical Striped Maxi Dress ($14.99, pictured left), which is available in a cream-and-mustard or cream-and-black combination, is a cool option for casual stripes. Maxi dresses are still really hot, so this is a great way to combine the two trends. Perfect for a weekend lounge on the deck.
4. Stripes Want to sport your stripes on the beach? Holmes likes the reversible Striped Halter Bikini ($44, pictured left) from California-based clothing company Volcom. She says, “Striped bathing suits are an unexpected way to show off the [nautical] look at the beach. The stripe trend will carry through the fall, so stock up!”
5. Stripes You’ll definitely be seaworthy in the Chaps Cape Weekend Striped Tunic ($32.20) in white and redfrom Kohl’s. This comfy, flattering top is a bold take on the nautical trend. Pair it with navy or white shorts for a relaxed weekend brunch or dress it up with a pleated skirt and some wrist bangles for work. For a work-appropriate striped garment, I like the Dressbarn Striped Sheath with Crochet Trim ($44.99, pictured left). This dress features nautical-inspired stripes with a lovely crochet-trimmed placket and neckline. A tailored waist with inverted pleats gives it a flattering fit. After work, toss on a cocktail ring and go out for a drink with the girls!
