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Summer Brights: Taking the Trend Plunge

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at App State chapter.

For a girl whose favorite color is a simple and clean shade of white and is partial to any shade of brown or tan over a loud hue, Summer 2012’s trends can be a little bit frightening. I will admit that my taste in colorful fashion has lagged behind a bit over the last couple of years but there is no doubt that, as the weather gets warmer, the colors are getting brighter and the fashion louder. 
So, after constant pressure from my colorfully stylishly roommates and reminders from every fashion magazine and shopping mall, I decided to finally take the trend plunge and get rid of those boring browns and dive into a new bright and beautiful wardrobe that can only mean one thing: summer has finally arrived!

Here are my purchases:
 This asymmetrical coral maxi is by far my favorite purchase for summer. Not only is it a bright, look-at-me color, but also it is so comfortable and soft, perfect for that beach vacation or just a night out with friends. I paired it with this yellow and blue statement necklace to add a little interest to the dress’s solid color. Enter a neutral pair of wedges or gold sandals and you have a look that is all set for summer. 
Sizzlin’ in Coral Maxi Dress: $49.50 at Vestique.com
Glorious Yellow Bead Necklace: $24.50 at Vestique.com

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Colored denim is hot this season. In so many different colors and styles, I finally settled on this, relatively inexpensive, pair of cropped ankle denim in turquoise. Offset your bottoms’ loud color with a neutral blouse and add a colorful sandal or flat for more interest. This look is perfect for those cool summer nights spent around the bonfire.
[blanknyc®] Skinny Jeans in Turquoise: $88.00 at Madewell
 
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I choose this great sheer pin tuck top in Light Heliconia from Banana Republic because I fell in love with its gorgeous color and its versatility. This top can be used as a cover up, paired with denim, tucked into a skirt, or, in my case, paired with a great pair of white shorts (which I also found on my shopping excursion). For me, finding a pair of shorts that fits in the waist, hips, and are not too short or too long is always a challenge. Luckily, I ended up with this great pair of white rolled shorts that, miraculously, fit just right. Paired with the pink top from Banana and my favorite pair of taupe wedges, I created a go-to outfit that is cute, flirty, and easy to wear. For even more excitement, add a colorful statement necklace or earrings.
Denim Midi Shorts in Whitewash: $49.50 at Madewell
Pintuck Top in Light Heliconia: $69.50 at Banana Republic

This summer is all about bright colors. When trying to incorporate vibrant hues into your otherwise neutral wardrobe, it is important to start with basic pieces that flatter your body and pair them with some of your favorite basics. Still uncomfortable? Try toning down your eccentric top or bottoms with a neutral staple that you already own. In no time at all you will be dressed to impress and ready for summer!

Brittany Fielding is a senior studying Apparel Design and Merchandising at Appalachian State University. She loves to write, shop, exercise, watch sports, and spend time with her friends and family. Originally from Cleveland, OH, Brittany plans on moving back to a big city after graduation to pursue a career in fashion buying/merchandising. 
Laura Maddox is a Senior at Appalachian State University. Laura was born and raised in Charlotte, NC but loves the mountain air in Boone. She is one of four kids and has an identical twin sister. Laura enjoys reading, fashion, blogging, traveling, chocolate, lots of coffee and riding in the car with the windows down. She has a knack for creative writing, doodling and procrastination. Laura plans on moving to Boston after graduation to pursue a career in the advertising industry as a copywriter. Laura loves APP and will always be a Mountaineer fan!