This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Oxy chapter.
As a girl whose favorite color is black, this recent Los Angeles heat wave has made my sartorial life a little difficult. I feel most comfortable in my winter clothes, which typically consist of fitted trousers, faux fur coats, and turtlenecks. Summer, especially when the temperatures reach 106 degrees Fahrenheit, is not my favorite season. And yes, I am a native Angeleno who happens to be cursing the sun lately. It’s interfering with my aesthetic. However, there are certain trends that I saw and tried my hardest to follow this summer that I will miss dearly. Here’s my list, in no particular order:
Pleated Skirts: These are a great addition to any wardrobe, because they’re a flattering shape for everyone. Because of their shape, they make everyone’s legs look both long and lean. They also have the ability to look both playful and serious, depending on what you choose to pair them with. A striped shirt, leather jacket, and ankle boots make it look “badass” and European, while wearing one with a T-shirt and New Balance 420’s gives the skirt more of a playground feel. (Photo from Tumblr)
“Closed” Sandals: These strange sandals are perfect for the person who greatly prefers closed-toe shoes, but needs to make adjustments for the warmer months. They go really well with any kind of outfit, which makes them a perfect everyday shoe. If you’re a shorter girl, you can find a pair that has platforms, and if you’re tall you can get them with more of a boot-heel. (Photo my own, shoes by Y.R.U)
Parasols: Parasols are something you can bust out if you’re a little more adventurous. I’m ashamed to admit that I’m late to the game, as my friend Fitz just gave me the idea last week. Parasols are perfect for the summer goth, because they help to protect you from the sun, they look mystical, and they cast cool shadows on your face. If you like attention, they’re perfect because not many people carry them around anymore. I’d definitely suggest carrying one if you want people to think you’re famous, at least from a far distance. (Photo from Amazon.com)
Halter Tops: The halter top was my favorite clothing item from my childhood, and I’m sure that if you grew up in the 90s you owned at least one. Then suddenly, halter tops went away. It seems as though shoulders are once again back in style, because the halter is back in a big way. Everyone is making them, from street-style companies to high-end designers. The tops provide a fun way to play with silhouettes, and can also be done formally or casually. Not to mention they go with pretty much everything. (Photo from Tumblr, top by 3.1 Phillip Lim FW ’14)