>> July has unavoidably brought on hot, sticky jungle weather — so why not fight fire with fire? Take a cue from Stella McCartney's Pre-Fall 2011 collection (left) and wrap yourself in lush leaf prints and tropical palm patterns. Pair graphic ferns with this season's neon for a New-Wave-meets-Palm-Springs spin, or, keep the whole look neutral with monochromatic, earthy hues. With prints this tropical, you'll be wishing for an endless Summer, after all.
>> Play on to the dark side. Jason Wu showed inky florals for Resort 2011, Valentino offered vines of black lace for Spring 2011, and coming soon for Fall 2011? A whole host of enigmatic blossoms in dusky hues from the likes of Bensoni, Chris Benz, and Lanvin (left), just to name a few. Victorian drama, it seems, is here to stay. Slip into the long shadows of Summer with these darkly romantic pieces — and let them linger straight through Fall.
Image courtesy of Greg Kessler
>> Gold's softer, pinker incarnation is definitely the most-wanted metal of the season. But it's not just about delicate sweetness. This Summer's coolest rose gold pieces play with opposites, contrasting the metal's sunset hues with edgy, unconventional shapes. Here, we've highlighted some of the chicest rose gold pieces around — click through to shop our selections from Eddie Borgo, Pamela Love, Alexis Bittar and more.
At left, Luv AJ Crystal Chunk Cocktail Ring, $121
>> Summer accessories should be lightweight, airy, and ready for anything. These 15 handbags and shoes — inspired by the luxe versions at the Spring 2011 Fendi show (left)— are just that. Click through to see our favorite weekenders, clutches, wedges, and flats; all in the super chic and unexpectedly elegant combination of earthy canvas and polished leather.
Photo by Greg Kessler
>> Shibori — think of it as tie-dye, but all grown up. Originally from ancient Japan, this method of fabric dyeing includes techniques such as binding, stitching, twisting, and compressing — which together result in an exotic and versatile range of patterns. From the delicate dot-like versions spotted in Proenza Schouler's Spring 2011 collection to the bold indigo prints on offer from indie up-and-comers Upstate (left), there's a bit of something for everyone in shibori. Click through to see a selection of our favorite pieces.
>> At the 2011 CFDA Awards on Monday night, Leelee Sobieski, Kirsten Dunst, and Phoebe Philo all turned up in different incarnations of one very chic look: the evening tux. Whether in custom ivory Adam Kimmel (Sobieski), navy Patrik Ervell (Dunst), or black Celine (Philo), it's a look that manages to appear sophisticated, sexy, adrogynous, and luxe — all at once. To get your own version of this Summer eveningwear alternative, look for jackets and pants in sleek fabrics with luxurious details like satin lapels. And less is more when it comes to accessories; a classic pump and minimal jewelry with subtle details help keep the look elegant. Click through to see our picks the trio inspired.
