It has started. The low murmuring and whispering has already begun. Women all over the country have begun to stir and bravely mention the infamous ‘S’ word.

It’s time to brush off those wintry hibernation blues and prepare to pull out the colour in preparation for summer.
As children we all knew when the summer time was upon us because we raced to put on our chequered school dresses.
As women we only know to prepare when phrases like ‘sandals’ and ‘spray tan’ are bounded around the work place.
For the summer sunshine there are a few key pieces that every keen fashionista should possess to look both glam and sophisticated in the summer heat. We have taken a look at what the designers have to offer this season and chosen some beautiful creations from the high street to suit all price ranges.

The catwalks were overcome with florals and romantic ruffled designs for summer 2010. From Chanel's rural and naturalistic approach to Giles' beautiful tea dresses teamed with colour co-ordinated glasses- all of the runway shows made you want to grab your shades and sandals and hit the warm, summer sunshine. 
Here is our essential guide for the key items that every woman needs this season.
From hats to maxi dresses, we give you our top tips on how to achieve the perfect look this summer.
 

Hats

The sun hat is not just an essential accessory to protect you from the strong sunrays- it’s also a staple in any woman’s summer wardrobe (or suitcase). If you prefer the strong, dramatic look, made famous by style icon Audrey Hepburn then celebrate it this season but if you prefer a more subtle approach then why not try a panama hat. This stylish headgear seems to be the look of the season and suits most women. Why not take inspiration from Eugenia Kim’s design, the natural straw panama is both simple and striking with its red ribbon and orange grosgrain goldfish detail. The striking hint of colour is perfect for this season which has been dominated by candy floss colours, in particular pale peaches and baby blues. 
For a superb collection of summer hats we suggest the mighty high street store ‘Accessorize’, their collection is second to none and their prices are suitable for all budgets.

 
Sunglasses

Sunglasses are an essential piece of fashion equipment for any style guru. Follow the example set by the elegant Jackie Onassis and make a pair of sunglasses your key look this summer. Teamed with a either a dress or simply with jeans and a plain tee- a pair of striking shades can make you shine out from the crowds.
“If you are after sunglasses for day-to-day wear a graduated tint is a big trend this season”, explains expert David Clulow Sales Assistant, Matthew Roberts. “Lighter lenses will still provide 100% UV protection and will look fantastic. A prime example is a frame from the Gucci range this season. With its very slim, gold frame and cut off lenses with an almost transparent gold lens. Teamed with big 80’s hair this is a great look for this summer.”
Matthew, who works at the Selfridges store in Manchester, adds “Ray Ban, as always, is a big must have for this season. The visor shape is very versatile as it has a curve on the lens and therefore tends to adjust to people’s natural shape. Most frames that have a curved lens will fit really well. The aviator is a classic shape and is stocked in 55mm, 58mm and 62mm so no matter what face shape/size you are, there will be a size to suit you.”

The Maxi

Ever since the queen of fashion, Miss Carrie Bradshaw and her ladies strutted in their first cinematic outing, women across the globe have worn the maxi dress in summertime. This familiarly long dress is ‘the’ outfit for the season. This year it has taken on a new strength with high street stores producing some excellent designs.
High street store, ‘Warehouse’ has a superb collection, their strapless red and black tribal print maxi dress is a must this season. The incorporation of intricate sequins into the design gives the piece a more sophisticated look. Combined with a chunky belt or for a dressed down approach why not combine this with a denim jacket.
However, if you aren’t very tall and find that a maxi dress makes you look more like Morticia Adams than model Erin O’Connor, why not try a handkerchief maxi dress. They aren’t as long as a maxi dress but are still as elegant. Warehouse’s handkerchief dress is beautiful with its frill detail and stunning blue print.

When it comes to stealing the show- ‘Monsoon’ definitely wins hands down. Their Nicole maxi dress is divine and perfect for a beach holiday. For the ideal evening look simply drape a beautiful pashmina round your shoulders.
However, if a maxi dress just isn’t your style why not try a kaftan. Monsoon offers a great selection, such as the Marlin print. This beautiful 100% silk dress is ideal for summertime and a firm favourite with this Fashion Fiend.

Sandals

 
Havaianas and Birkenstocks- oh my! These shoes are great to pop on and rush out into the summer sunshine. They make a great investment and are a firm favourite every season.
Luckily this summer gladiator sandals can still be worn. Hurray! Dust off last season’s ‘it’ sandal because they look fabulous teamed with long print maxi dresses. If you want to update your wardrobe then why not try a pair of ankle cuff sandals which are all the rage this year. Another firm favourite is Office’s network strap sandal which comes in a rich tan colour. This beautiful leather shoe is perfect for dressing up or down and its double buckle makes it strong yet feminine. It’s ideal for the summertime.

 
 
Whatever your tastes or specific style may be this summer; get looking now at the essentials because it is the essentials that can make a whole outfit. And this is the fundamental point.  

Words by Siobhan Catherine Holt. 

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