Five Chic Casual Trends for Summer

This spring, I tried on approximately 1,256 off-the-shoulder tops, because off-the-shoulder tops are the smokin’ hot summer trend.  Around top 1,254–this pretty, striped BR number–I realized that off the shoulder is just not my look.  At all.  But what is a girl supposed to wear if she has to pass on the hottest piece since the midi-skirt?

Madewell Wildfield Top ($98) // Old Navy Saddle Bag ($35) // Madewell Open Work Panel Dress ($99) // BR Floral Flutter Sleeve Dress ($148) // Mango Knot Flat Sandal ($33)

Embroidered Tops are a nice alternative to the off-the-shoulder.  Embroidery has the same summery, bohemian vibe, but can be found in a myriad of styles.

This Madewell top has a cool look to it.  Though it will likely require tailoring if you want it more fitted than flowy.  This LOFT embroidered tunic has a relaxed vibe.  This Isabel Marant Voile Top is the perfect classic.  Plus-size?  This black and white Michael Kors with a slouchy shoulder is cool.

Saddle Bags are the new crossbody of choice.  They’re sleek and easy with a hint of trend.  The Old Navy bag above is a good option in an affordable price point.  This C. Wonder pebble satchel and this Mini Suki Crossbody in a blast of hot pink also caught my eye.

Crisp White Dresses are on the menu every summer, but this summer they are breezy and flowy.  I love the Zimmermann-esque style of this Mango dress.  This Camilla Lace Maxi dress just screams breezy beach vacation.  And this sleeveless lace-trim shirtdress from Gilt is perfectly preppy.

Petite?  I like this slick Chino Tunic Dress from Boden.  Plus-size?  This flirty Forever21+ Texture Dress is  a fun piece.

Bright Florals are groundbreaking for spring (kidding, Miranda Priestly, just kidding).  But what they lack in originality, they make up for in pure loveliness.

I adore the BR dress above.  It’s one of the few pieces that I kept after my post-grad summer shopping spree.  I also like the tropical print on Ann Taylor’s Amalfi halter dress.  For something under-$50, try this Sandra Darren dress with a burst of pink.

Slide Sandals have replaced the gladiator and ankle strap as the trend-piece du jour.  My guess is that people are surrendering their Birkenstocks, but trying to keep the shape.  I love the chic knots on the Mango sandals above (the price is nice, too).  These Willa slides from Madewell have a huarache vibe to them.  For a pop of color, these bright red Barney’s sandals are pretty cool.