An OMFG Guide to Spring/Summer 2011 Essentials!

Despite the recent weather we've been having, summer really is just around the corner! On the advice of my dear friend Clint who advised I add more fashion and not just emotional purging on my blog (he also noted that I should add cute animals...sorry Clinters, the animals will have to wait!) I present to you an OMFG Guide to Spring/Summer Essentials!

My fashion aesthetic is to simply look and feel beautiful. While I admire the more avant-garde fashionistas I see out and about in the city, I have no intention of waltzing around in black rubber pants or spiked-shouldered blazers and whatnot. Ultra feminine, versatile, classic and a touch of trendy and bohemian now and then describe my style to a tee...so with that in mind, here are my Spring/Summer 2011 essentials for all you lovelies!

The Maxi
I love the idea of maxi dresses; soft and flowy and low-key while still having enough room should you decide to indulge in a burger and fries on a patio! However, most maxis end up making even the skinniest of girls looking like large unshapely sacs. Enter the perfect maxi: Urban Outfitters has created this little number with a sheer long layer over a shorter one. Easy, breezy, and flattering all in one.
Link it via Urban Outfitters --> http://bit.ly/lq6HrK

The Silk Pant
Sure, printed silk pants are always a little Jazzy Jazz on first impression, but breathable and comfortable as well as chic and cool soon follow. Paired with a simple tee, neutral blazer and wedged desert boots take these pants from Jazzy Jazz to simply hip.
Link it via Net-a-porter --> http://bit.ly/j0O7t7

The Black Purse
I'm the kind of girl that believes all purses should be black, bitchy, designer, and big enough that if you need to shove some one you're not fond of, you can do so and blame it on your beautifully bad-ass Balanciaga. While the classic Motorcycle Balanciaga is the epitome of the bitchy black purse, this snake-print Marc by Marc Jacobs one is just as classic and bad-ass while being much more affordable.
Link it via Shopbop --> http://bit.ly/lZSQu6

The Accent Purse
On days when your huge black Marc Jacobs purse just isn't going with the summery all-loving feeling that comes with warm weather, an accent purse in an unusual colour is the perfect choice. Little sundresses go from sweet and simple to luxe and lovely with the addition of this perfectly pastel Rebecca Minkoff satchel! And, at under $200, it's a steal. I'm expecting mine in the mail any day now!
Link it via Shopbop --> http://bit.ly/mga5bX

The Sundress
I have a thing for little flared dresses. Dresses that have a fitted bodice and a flare when the waist starts are flattering on all figures, feminine and just flirty enough -- a perfect combo in my opinion! Urban Outfitters is always well-stocked in sexy little daytime numbers with my favourite being this Kimchi Blue knitted dress in bright yellow. Throw in a Miami tan, straw hat and glass of sangria and you've got the ideal summer afternoon.
Link it via Urban Outfitters --> http://bit.ly/mqIyYj

The Blazer
Like any girl out there, I can never have too many blazers! From my basic black boyfriend cut one to my silky navy longer one, they're a staple in my wardrobe. I tend towards lighter colours and materials for summer blazers, and this nude linen cardigan from Zara has all the right touches. All nude/cream ensembles are a go-to outfit for me and I can just picture this over white tailored shorts, a loose white tee and nude flats.
Link it via Zara Canada --> http://bit.ly/kWhrn4

The Sandal
Nude, on trend but still classic, insanely strappy and unique. I am obsessed with this modern take on Gladiator sandals from Urban Outfitters. The only downside? Beware of funky tan lines!
Link it via Urban Outfitters --> http://bit.ly/mIlDng

The Party Dress
The latest retro trend is a throwback to the glitzy glammy 70's and I couldn't be happier. Give me swingy dresses, shoulder-padded beaded blazers and bell sleeves galore! Vera Moda is right on trend with their delicate pink pleated evening dress. Showy but subtle, it's low-key glam at it's best.
Link it at Asos --> http://bit.ly/mhdQMw

The Midi-Skit
That's right, midi, not mini! Ladylike is another trend of the season and hemlines have dropped from the thigh to the knee if not longer. The midi skirt is versatile for day and night and is demure while still being right on trend. I couldn't choose between a funkier printed one and a bright blue one (perfect for colour-blocking!), so here they both are, from Asos.
Link it via Asos --> http://bit.ly/j1zLuX (printed) and http://bit.ly/lKCA4K (electric blue)

 And there you have it lovelies, a little collection of pieces that are sure to jump start your summer stylishly! With so many wearable trends being in for the season (neutral layering, mixing prints, military-inspired pieces, etc.) it's going to be one beautifully-inspired summer!
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