5 Best Trends from Resort 2015

Let's face it: no matter how style savvy you are, everyone finds themselves in a serious sartorial summer slump every now and then. Who cares about full looks when anyone who has to venture outdoors is too preoccupied with combating a heat wave? Luckily, resort is always a reliable way to boost a fashion groupie's spirits. Though these pieces won't be in stores for a few months, the debut of cruise collections offers a fashion resurgence. While choosing a favorite collection is impossible, there were several trends that took center stage. In no particular order, check out the best trends from the latest collections. Hopefully, you'll be rocking all of them in just a few months.

Snake Bite

Though animal prints have never gone out of style, designers strayed away from the standard leopard pattern this season and opted for an ultra fierce snakeskin. The best part? This print is so versatile, it can be worn in multiple ways. While Gucci's Frida Giannini plays it safe with predominately reptile accessories, Versace's neon snakeskin pants command attention. If you're looking for a less flashy way to sport this trend, Giorgio Armani offers subdued snakeskin separates. Or treat this reptile pattern as a texture and pair it with some fierce leopard a la Tracy Reese. Ease into this trend with an ultra chic clutch. With a cutting-edge little black dress and some wooden jewelry, you have a style homerun! (Photographed: Gucci Look 22)

The New Nautical

 While these collections aren't worn during boating season, it's no surprise when a cruise collection boasta sailor chic references. From a chunky fisherman sweater, as seen in Tibi's collection , to Sonia Rykiel's strategically placed sporty stripes, the fad clearly takes on a modern, masculine-inspired aesthetic this season. Need more proof?  Look no further than Altuzarra's streamlined flared pants. And leave it to Kenzo's Humberto Leon and Carol Lim to revitalize this trend with a sailor-friendly pencil skirt and a flouncy peplum top. Though a striped shirt is the easiest way to add a boating aesthetic to your ensemble, dare to be different with a pair of flared pants. Set sail on this fashion risk, the results will be worth it.  (Photographed: Tibi Look 18)

Fringe Benefits

For what seems like an eternity, fringe has had a poor reputation. Think Vegas showgirls and salacious flappers. Finally, thanks to some of fashion's most innovative minds, the frivolous frippery has received a sleeker makeover. At last! Who knew fringe could be so versatile? Recent CFDA winner Joseph Altuzarra carefully places strips of fringe along the waist and chest, creating more depth to otherwise minimalist silhouettes. DKNY, on the other hand, experiments with long layers. The end result? A dress that was made to twirl. "Queen of Cool" Clare Waight Keller plays with texture by adding some shag to a luxe knit sweater at Chloé. Take evening wear to the next level with a shamelessly sexy fringed dress a la Hérve Léger. No matter how you rock this trend, one thing is for sure: a subtle look is not an option. Dying to wear this trend as soon as possible? Opt for a fringe bikini. You'll be sure to make a splash. (Photographed: Altuzarra Look 28)

Mismatched Prints

It's no secret that a bold print is a surefire way to stand out, but two? The seemingly kitschy look has been all over the runways. At Louis Vuitton, both traditional and zany prints are infused into retro silhouettes: A-line skirts, flared jackets, and trim trousers. Christian Dior's Raf Simons experiments with both prints and textures. Everything from multicolored sequins, to embroidered florals, to geometric chevron are effortlessly woven into a single look. And let's not forget the combinations at Proenza Schouler, which act as a continuation of the brand's knockout fall collection. But all pairing props goes to Stella McCartney, who smartly combines not two, but five different prints in one ensemble. Don't have time to carefully mix multiple prints into one outfit? Don't want to look like a circus folk? Try a dress that has clashing prints. But if you're looking to add some DIY to this trend, the easiest way ace this fad is to opt for different prints in a similar color palette. No matter which option you choose, you'll be sure to turn some heads. (Photographed: Louis Vuitton Look 30)

That's a Wrap!

If this season has taught us anything, it's that super fitted ensembles are on a hiatus. As their replacements, wrap jackets and dresses have taken center stage. What's not to love about the trend? It's the perfect way to flaunt your figure without feeling constricted by your clothes. At The Row, neutral colors are paired with luxe fabrics and cool-girl shapes. No stranger to anything wrapped, Diane von Furstenberg blends potent berry hues into her iconic wrap dresses. Donna Karan's waist ties and loads of fabric create jaw-dropping movement. Red carpet ready in a simple outfit! Preen by Thornton Bregazzi offers everything from cropped jackets to eye-catching wrap coats. It was all languid silhouettes and poppy colors at Escada's presentation, which is perfect for that post-holiday glow. Want to invest in a wrap piece of your own? Make a statement by combining this feminine shape with an unconventional fabric. And don't worry, this trend will be perfect for spring!  (The Row Look 2)

Which trends are you loving? Sound off below!

Can't get enough of Resort? Check out The Trendologist's Resort 2015 Pinterest Board.

All runway photos courtesy of Style.com

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Summer 2014 Trend: Summer Slides

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past few months, you know that the once squirm-worthy Birkenstocks are this summer's must-have shoe. Megawatt brands such as Givenchy, Céline, and Giambattista Valli have been jumping on the podiatric bandwagon, and let's not forget how many celebrities and tastemakers have been spotted sporting this comfortable shoe. But what's a style savant to do if she (or he) can't stop thinking of this ugly chic trend as purely ugly? Become a trend slave and wear the kicks regardless? Instead, feast your eyes upon this season's other major footwear trend: the slide. Yes, they're also making a major comeback. Though pulling out those sporty pool slides you'd wear after swimming a few laps or during a shower in your college dorm offers a blast from the past, there are so many incredible market finds that are begging to be worn that you are bound to find the perfect shoe. While Miuccia Prada mixed unapologetically flashy gems with a sportier silhouette, Tibi's Amy Smilovic added funky embellishments to a minimalist silhouette. J.W. Anderson offered a refreshing twist on this classic silhouette with a square fold-over. Whether you love Chloé's spring or pre-fall take on this trend, one thing is for sure: Clare Waight Keller's magic touch includes a dash of metal hardware. And if you're not wanting to splurge on a new pair of the au courant sandal, it's okay to take a sartorial trip down memory lane by giving your trust pool slides from many moons ago a second life-- Rita Ora made ordinary extraordinary with striped socks. Birkenstocks, meet your match.

Prada SS 2014, Look 12

Tibi SS 2014, Look 1

J.W. Anderson SS 2014, Look 8

Chloé Pre-Fall, Look 23

Rita Ora

Whether you're hitting the beach or heading out to your favorite summer hot-spot for drinks, think of these kicks as essentials to every summer outfit. Since these shoes have such a simple silhouette, they are extremely versatile. I love the juxtaposition of this minimalist shoe with a dainty slip dress-- the combination screams effortlessly chic. Feeling a little sporty? Try a pair of tailored shorts with a lightweight sweater. For a borrowed from the boys look, try these shoes with a pair of cozy linen pants. Something tells me you're going to get a lot of mileage out of these kicks.

1. Marc Jacobs 2. Common Projects 3. Asos 4. Chloé 5. Tibi 6. Newbark

Will you invest in summer slides this season? Sound off below! 

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Red Carpet Review: Best 8 Looks From the 2014 CFDA Awards

Rihanna knows how to add shock value. If it's not her salacious music, or her Instagram woes, the public is always in awe of what the singer wears. Naturally, heads turned when Rihanna strutted down Monday's CFDA Awards's carpet in a sheer sequined Adam Selman number. Too racy? Too perfect? Days later, and it's still tough to say; however, one thing is for sure: Rihanna's dress is a conversation piece. But don't be fooled, style savants, there were several other CFDA-approved outfits that deserve to be gushed over. Check out the eight best looks from Monday's star-studded event. 

Liya Kebede in Wes Gordon: Yes, the CFDA Awards is second best occasion for any fashion plate to throw on a beautiful evening gown, but there's something surprisingly refreshing about the model's simplistic Wes Gordon dress.  The outfit on its own looks like a young Carolina Herrera while the white sandals make this look completely fearless. Kebede's extra voluminous curls with the sleek number give this look an after hours aesthetic. Obsessed.

Olivia Palermo in Ann Taylor: The former reality star is never one to shy away from a fashion risk, as they always seem to pay off for Palermo. However, sporting a lower market brand to such a high-profile event is new for the tastemaker, yet it works. Palermo adds depth to a monochromatic look by mixing different textures from head to toe. The lace-accented shoes continue the textural look, not to mention are also super chic.With a beachy bun and loads of gold jewels, Palermo proves that she can make any brand (and perhaps any look) a smash hit.

Ashley and Mary Kate Olsen: In their own designs, the stylish duo is an obvious choice for the evening's best dressed list. Known for their perfectly coordinating outfits, each twin gives her own twist to the long-sleeved black dress and emerald jewels. The result? Two looks that are effortless, sophisticated, and expresses two different personal styles. Brava.

Joan Smalls in Prabal Gurung: From short hems to plunging necklines, Smalls is never afraid to sport something sexy on the red carpet. The model's ethereal, yet provocative, Prabal Gurung gown from Monday's awards ceremony was a bonafide hit. While the chopped bodice and high slit scream vixen, the sleek gold accessories and Smalls's bangs give this gown a fashion-forward twist. Plus, the midnight blue acts as the ultimate neutral. So major.

Olivia Wilde in Decades LA: While fringe ran rampant at the Spring 2014 collection-- Altuzarra, Emilio Pucci, and Derek Lam, to name a few-- but translating this trend to the mass audience is a challenge. However, Wilde's take on this trend is spot on. Not only is the long fringe unapologetically glam, the asymmetrical shoulder prevents tragic flapper moment. And can we just reflect that she is a new mom in that curve-hugging number. Where can we find the name of her Pilates instructor?

Marion Cotillard in Dior: Though the actress's designer choice is no surprise, Cotillard's look is everything. While the shift silhouette and two-toned shoes scream girly mod, the dimensional components give this outfit a modern flair. But of course no ensemble is complete without a face full of makeup... or is it? On the contrary, Cotillard's au natural look is oddly refreshing and allows onlookers to focus on the dress. 

Karlie Kloss in Band of Outsiders: Wild, wild west chic takes a metropolitan turn as Karlie Kloss pairs a handkerchief-esque dress with exotic lace-up heels. Zestier than the model's signature ladylike frocks, this gown is a fashion risk worth taking. Though the silhouette is relatively minimalist, the cut-outs and gentle print rejigger Kloss's personal style. Let's not forget that the semi-sloppy top knot is the perfect finishing touch.

Jessica Stam in Giulietta: Unless you haven't received the memo, jumpsuits are the new evening gowns. There's a particular easy je ne sais quoi about playsuits that are perfect for the summer. Donning a monochromatic look, Stam aces this trend. The subtle peplum and keyhole neckline create the perfect mélange of sexy and sweet, which is undeniably fashion-forward. Stam's black jewel accessories produces a high-contrast look. On the beauty front, the model's metallic shadow and sleek bun are ideal for this warm season.

All photos courtesy of The Cut.

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The 6 Chicest Trends for the Summer

Smell that Hawaiian Tropic sunscreen? Though the sunny season doesn't officially begin for a few weeks, it's essentially unanimous that we are all in the summer state of mind. But what about our outfits? Between the torturous weather and time spent scheming up ways to score that perfect tan, it sometimes feels as if our style choices take a backseat for a few months. What a tragedy! I'm so excited to participate in Raise.com's Closet Swap campaign by sharing my favorite must-have trends for this summer.

1. Thierry Lasry 2. Ray-Ban  3. Oliver Peoples 4. Etnia  5. Les Specs 6. Illesteva

You're never fully dressed without a killer pair of sunnies; however, summer is the perfect time to debut some brilliant new shades. This year, allow the ocean to look extra blue through your colored lenses. As the perfect foil to winter's dark glasses, a tinted lens is the perfect way to keep even the most classic outfits creative and quirky. But rest assured, style trailblazers, this funky alternative doesn't mean you must rock Woodstock-approved round glasses or colorful frames. In fact, some of the most versatile styles couple the daring lenses with a more traditional rim, such as Illesteva's collection. For an effortlessly chic look, pair these sunnies with boyfriend jeans and a white linen blouse.

1. Moschino Cheap and Chic  2. T By Alexander Wang 3. Marni 4. Joseph 5. Topshop

Whether you're vacationing by the beach or trudging through the concrete jungle, one fact remains: summer's heat and humidity are usually never on our side, sartorially. From frizzy hair to sweat-stained outfits, it's fair to say that summer isn't the most glamorous time of the year. For an easy and chic ensemble that won't make you want to jump out of your skin, try sporting a shift dress. These shapeless dresses are perfect for the overheated season because they are available in a multitude of fabrics, colors, and patterns. What could be better than that? Oh right, if they don't cling to your body after walking a few minutes outside. Check! Since summer is all about fun hues and prints, feel free to reach out of your comfort zone-- I'm loving Marni's array of patterned day dresses. A versatile necessity in your closet, the shift dress would look great with everything from strappy sandals to espadrilles. The perfect day-to-night piece? Agreed!

1. Tommy Hilfiger 2. Cole Haan 3. Rupert Sanderson 4. Salvatore Ferragamo 5. Loeffler Randall
6. MICHAEL Michael Kors 7. Pour La Victoire 8. Tabitha Simmons 

After months of wearing five-inch heels, the idea of resorting to flat sandals for the summer is both a dream and a nightmare. The thought of a comfortable shoe is always attractive; however, your slew of dresses and skirts don't look quite as on-point as they do with a little heel. Fashionistas, meet the city sandal: the perfect compromise. With a small, chunky heel, the city sandal gives you a little bit of height while still keeping in touch with the summer's effortlessly chic vibe. The ideal pair of shoes will transition perfectly from work to after hours. Available in a plethora of heights, colors, and strap lines, investing in a pair of these kicks is a no-brainer!

1. Halston Heritage  2. Mansur Gavriel 3. Vivienne Westwood  4. Nancy Gonzalez 5. Etienne Aigner
6. Anya Hindmarch  7. Mango

Unless you've been living under a rock, you know that the fashion world is obsessed with Mansur Gavriel's collection of soft leather purses. While Rachel Mansur and Floriana Gavriel's heap of tote bags are just delectable, their ultra chic bucket bag is literally everything. But the design duo are not alone in the bucket bag revolution: a number of luxe designers and affordable fast-fashion outlets have been all over this trend as well. The drawstring closure is reminiscent of a backpack that you'd bring to day camp many moons ago while the bag's silhouette is perfect for stashing your sunscreen, flip-flops, and favorite beach read. Translation? An undeniable must-have!

1. Lisa Marie Fernandez 2. Dolce and Gabbana 3. Norma Kamali 4. Mara Hoffman
5. Marysia 6. Melissa Odabash

No summer trend is complete without discussing swimwear. While there's always a bevy of maillots and bikinis to choose from, the market's assortment of bandeau bikinis have heads turning. With a number of prints and intricate details, there's a bandeau bikini that's perfect for you. Marysia's scalloped details are unapologetically girly while Lisa Marie Fernandez's experimentation with neoprene definitely paid off. Plus, this season has loads of potent prints: mosaics, tribal, and florals-- oh my! And let's not forget one very important thing: no awkward tan lines.

1. Givenchy 2. Vince 3. Saint Laurent 4. Vans 5. Sam Edelman 6. Aldo 

While city sandals are the perfect alternative to wearing sandals at work, the sunny season is in desperate need of a pair of "off duty" kicks. Sporty and completely versatile, the slip-on sneaker is ideal for that woodsy hike or beachside picnic. Though a solid pair is the practical choice, keep an eye out for the array of printed shoes-- they are the ultimate way to add a spring to your step. But how are you supposed to rock this trend? Juxtapose this boyish shoe with a pleated skirt or crocheted dress. Want to play it safe? Distressed jeans a light sweater will also do the trick.

Want all these trends but are on a budget? Turn those unused gift cards into instant cash with Raise.com, the premier place to buy and sell gift cards. Absolutely major.

xx