PUNCH UP YOUR EVENING LOOK
Forget the bleak black garb when it’s time for your next girls’ night out — this season’s nightlife is all about color.
Fuchsia, teal, turquoise and tangerine are just a few of the neon colors enhancing evening attire. Bella B’s Boutique owner Brooke Doyle shared some of her favorite evening looks with us. “Short shorts with bright frilly tops paired with fun printed shoes. Rompers are in, too — which I love! Bright colors make people happier and feel better. If you wear color, you can accessorize in so many different ways.”
Denim continues to be the No. 1 choice for a night on the town. Numerous designers, including Dolce & Gabbana, showed faded, ripped and patchwork denim pieces for summer. Stylefinder.com claims that torn and pre-washed denim from the ’70s and ’80s is making a comeback, but we have yet to see it in Kansas City.
MIDNIGHT IN MAGENTA: Magenta is a flattering color on many skin tones and is absolutely yummy in silk. Petro Zillia designed this strapless drawstring tunic with heart-shaped pockets. Pink strapless top $288, clear chunky necklace $100, Haught Style; Black Joe’s Jeans $158, Denim Couture
Marcie Harrison, a recruiter for Pitney Bowes, has a chic sense of style. She’s not ready to relive the torn denim look. “I’m not into the faded and ripped up jeans, I’ve been there and done that in the ’80s. I still really like the dark denim. It’s dressier. You still have jeans on, but you look put-together. I’m addicted to Citizens of Humanity jeans. The expensive brands are worth it because they fit — with a little bit of spandex to keep them from stretching out.”
Harrison is a fan of color this season. “Bright colored sandals and purses that don’t necessarily match look great. I like to throw on a pair of orange sandals with an outfit in another color to add some interest.”
date night: The legging is officially back from the ’80s and is the perfect mate for a long tunic top. The black-and-silver gathered tunic is by French Connection; the pink leggings are by Hue. He wears Diesel jeans and a 191 Unlimited brown-and-blue-striped shirt with patterned cuffs. Black top $118, leggings 2 for $17.50, brown shirt $75, Diesel jeans $220, belt $68, Deegie’s Carma; heart earrings $100, Bella B’s Boutique
Accessories aren’t the least bit shy this season, either. Oversized necklaces, earrings and rings are just the right accent with over-the-top colors. Just exercise moderation. If you choose a necklace with giant links, scale back the earrings to studs or small hoops. A chunky cocktail ring can add an element of fun to nearly any outfit.
When you are out shopping for color, try on different shapes to see which new silhouette is most flattering to you. A batwing sleeve top will overpower a petite woman but looks amazing on a tall slender shape.
ON THE BALL: Saturated colors mixed and matched are the biggest trend of the summer. This teal French Connection blouse has roomy batwing sleeves. A generous top calls for skinny jeans, like this yellow pair from Mavi. Teal top $158, yellow jeans $88, ring $60, Deegie’s Carma
If you go with a voluminous top, wear a narrow pant. A skinny top is great with wide-leg jeans. Have fun with the rainbow of colors out there and move the black to the back of the closet — until fall, that is.
informal affair: A few sequins may be the only accessories you need. This pale lettuce silk chiffon top by Chili Pepper has a delicate sparkle at the neckline. Lettuce top $99, Chili Pepper jeans $155, crystal bead bracelet $68, earrings $40, Deegie’s Carma
HANGIN' OUT: The polo-style shirt is a great option for the office or on a date. This Penguin blue and white shirt has a decidedly retro feel that is perfect with khakis. Polo style shirt $69, French Connection khakis $98, Deegie’s Carma
- Heather Krafft, The Kansas City Star