What Celebrities and Other Fashionable People Will Be Wearing this Season: Summer Fashion Trends (I)

by Amy Drescher

At last, blue skies and sunshine have replaced gray drizzle and chilly temperatures, and long pants and those hideous foam clown shoes known as Crocs are making way for cute sundresses and sandals. In short, summer is here, and fashionable people everywhere are taking a look into their closets so see what's what. If you're looking to upgrade your wardrobe and get in on the summer fashion trends of celebrities and celebrity stylists, look no further. Here's a peek at the styles that are hot this season; and the good news is that, because many of these picks are classics, you probably already own a piece or two (meaning you'll be able to splurge on a few extras.) We've got the top picks for clothes, shoes and even accessories that no A-list celeb or self-respecting fashionista will want to be without this summer.

Read away, figure out what looks you can rock, and get shopping! Fun! Choose it:

* Jean shorts. Kate Moss, Jessica Simpson and Lindsay Lohan are fans of the jean short, which they can dress up or down. Choose a pair in a dark wash that fits well, meaning the shorts don't ride up in the crotch and don't sit too high on the waist. Opt for a pair that falls mid-thigh for the most flattering look. Do like Nicky Hilton does and pair shorts with flats, a chic jacket and an oversize bag; the Britney Spears faded cutoff short-short look is so tacky.

* Tie espadrilles. Eva Longoria and Carmen Electra rock this look, which calls attention to your ankles and is flattering on most everyone. Pair your tie espadrilles with skirts, or cropped pants or jeans. (If you're wearing a mini, though, it's best to stick with flats; the shoe should be the focus of the outfit, and a mini is just too much.) And keep the ties to a minimum, meaning if your shoes have ties, don't choose pants or a top that does too.

* Thong sandals. Gwyneth Paltrow, Kate Moss and Reese Witherspoon are fans of this chic style, which looks great with jeans, shorts and minidresses. Opt for a natural material, or get in on the metallic trend by choosing silver sandals. J. Crew, Nine West, Banana Republic, Mia, Miu Miu and Gucci all make great, classic styles.

* Oversize sunglasses. Think Victoria Beckham, Katie Holmes, Sienna Miller, Lauren Conrad and Kylie Minogue. Styles we like: Try Roger Vivier specs in hot fuchsia for $445, or glossy plastic oversize sunglasses from Dior, although be warned: Though gorgeous, these babies retail for $260. If you can't afford to splurge, Forever 21 makes a similar pair for $4.80. I also picked up a great pair of white oversize glasses with rhinestone detail from Old Navy for $8. Now, if my puppy chews on them, I won't be that upset (unless they cause an intestinal blockage that costs, say $2000 to fix). Don't laugh, it's happened.

*Straw or canvas tote. Stash your sunscreen and beach reads in the must-have summer accessory: the classic tote. Of course, LL Bean makes the ultimate canvas beach bag (add your initials or your name for fun and practical purposes), or try J Crew, Lilly Pulitzer or Land's End. Want to add poochie? Wagwear's doggy bag has a cut out for his head. Straw totes are great too. Just type 'straw tote' into any search engine and take your pick.

* Pink pearls. What better way to accessorize casual beachwear than with the sea's own gemstone? White pearls are classic and elegant, but natural pink pearls, with their softly flattering rosy luster, are perfect against summer skin (Ciara is a fan.) Choose classic looks like pink pearl studs, a pink pearl pendant (a pink pearl strand might be a bit too stuffy for the beach, although it's great for the office), or a pink pearl ankle bracelet to work the look. Simple yet elegant, pink pearls go with everything. They're a no-brainer accessory, they're timeless, and, since natural pink pearls come from freshwater mussels, they won't break the bank. Search for "pink pearls" or "pink pearl jewelry" online to find a variety of affordable styles. Just be sure to check return policies before ordering online.

* Minidresses. Popsicle-inspired colors and simple, flattering patterns make these carefree dresses a no-brainer option for summer dressing. Kirsten Dunst, Katherine Heigl, Molly Sims and Kate Hudson are fans of the minidress, which can go from beach to dinner effortlessly. Three to try: Michael Kors' jersey A-line tunic dress ($65), Gap striped terry sweatshirt dress ($45) and Ella Moss sleeveless dress with button detail ($178).

to be continued