The Summer Romper

Who says you have to be a child to wear a romper? In fact-the romper has evolved into a sophisticated and chic trend for women that is youthful and grown-up all at the same time.

The trends in rompers for this Summer 2011 season are the color block and printed varieties-particularly in silks or flowy fabrics. A silk romper is the best investment because it can be dressed up…whereas those made of cotton or jersey should be reserved for more casual affairs.

Colorblock was seen months ago all over the designer runway shows and now that it’s hit the stores we are loving it! Colorblocking can trick the eye into thinking the outfit is two coordinating pieces, when in fact they are sewn together. To spice up a colorblock romper, simply add a fun gold patent leather belt and heads will be sure to turn your way.

Clockwise from top left: Trina Turk Samba Romper $258.00 www.revolveclothing.com, Color Block Bow Front Playsuit $110.00 www.topshop.com, Joie Bergamont Romper $258.00 www.chelseabrentwood.com, Roses and Dots Romper $17.80 www.forever21.com.

Trend Report: The Swim-Suit Tunic

    

Swim tunics have been around for a very long time-in fact, before the 1930′s most bathing suits were actually more like tunics. Today we wear them not solely for modesty, but for hiding our imperfections-even after hitting the gym (or lack there of)!

This summer’s swim tunic is a great investment piece because designers have gotten practical and are designing cover-ups to have multiple functions.

Lace tunics can double as a dress by simply adding a slip underneath and any oversized tunics can be belted to achieve a more tailored look. Colorful printed tunics work great with jeggings and flats to create an elegant bohemian style. Add a little pizzazz to a solid tunic by adding a necklace or two and on-trend bangles or cuffs.
The best thing about a swimsuit tunic is that they are comfortable and modern. If you plan on traveling a lot this summer remember to purchase styles that can go from day to night.

And remember…the more creative the better.

Clockwise from top left:Becca Crochet Cover-Up $68.00 www.nordstrom.com, French Riviera Tunic $137.00 www.trinaturk.com, Joie a la Plage Lace Tunic $212.00 available at Chelsea Brentwood (310)471-4770, Nanete Lepore Ikat Tunic $163.00 www.bloomingdales.com.

The Modern Espadrille

Once footwear for peasants, the espadrille has evolved into a spring-time staple.  They were present most everywhere at the Spring/Summer 2011 runways, and you can be sure they will be gracing the streets come the ides of March, making this a shoe to invest in.

The signature jute sole is not only eco-friendly but amazingly comfortable because the braided cotton rope acts as the ultimate shock absorber.

The espadrille became famous in the US in the 1940s when Lauren Bacall’s character in the film “Key Largo” wore them laced up around her ankle.  Since then, the style has been revived at least once a decade…yet here at Curator’s of Style we are mesmerized with the sophistication for the upcoming season.

Dolce Vita Jollen Espadrille $125.00, Chelsea Brentwood (310)471-4770

Christian Louboutin Pepi Peep-Toe Espadrille,$425.00 www.saks.com

Valentino Patent Leather Slingback Espadrille, $475.00 www.valentino.com

Lanvin Espadrille Wedge, $595.00, www.lanvin.com