Spring, summer weather fashion guide

UNA students trade their winter clothes for new spring fashions.

With temperatures rising, it’s time to put the winter wardrobe back in the closet and approach the correct way to wear this season’s fashion.

Senior fashion merchandising major Donialle Killen weighed her opinion for the latest trends.

“You can make almost anything look good if you have the confidence,” Killen said.

For both men and women, Killen said that it’s best to avoid being too “matchy-matchy” when putting together an ensemble to keep from looking like a kindergartener.

Instead of the five-year-old look, she said a bright skirt with a neutral tank top or fitted v-neck would work best for women. She said a large necklace would complement the outfit but warned against wearing too many pieces of jewelry together.

Killen said to just use one bright or one pastel color to stay away from looking either like a traffic cone or an Easter egg when choosing colors.

She also encouraged blush-toned colors. She said that color choice would work on any woman and would brighten up the face.

Mixing prints is in style, but Killen said it’s important to stay within the same color family.

Bohemian prints are popular for the season as long as the individual doesn’t overdo it and look like she belongs at Woodstock.

Ruffled, trimmed sundresses are the focal point for any spring/summer collection. Killen said the dresses are good for hanging out with friends but shouldn’t be worn to business engagements.

“It’s inappropriate to wear skimpy clothes to a business meeting,” she said.

Sundresses can be touched up with a light-weight blazer or a blue jean jacket, matched with a pair of wedges.

Crop tops are reappearing in stores and should be worn with high-waisted shorts, not low-rise jeans.

As for makeup, bold lips are suggested in various shades of orange that would complement the skin tone. Bright eyelids are also good with any look if not paired with a bold lip. “You don’t want to look like a clown,” Killen said.

To contrast the bold look, a woman could go for the fresh appearance.

“A fresh face always looks good with light blush or bronzer, mascara and lip gloss,” she said.

For either look, Killen said, “Freckles shouldn’t be hidden with a bunch of foundation.”

She said tanning in moderation is good when an individual doesn’t burn his/her skin and doesn’t look like fruit.

Summer hair is best represented with big, loose waves, fishtail braids and loose ponytails. Killen said to add a splash of color for fun, such as a teal streak.

Woven, handmade and organic purses are replacing the oversized plastic or leather bags and purses.

Along with wedges, sandals, flats, Keds, TOMS and combat boots are making their way onto the streets.

Men are also encouraged to wear TOMS or Vans and to steer clear of FiveFingers.

“Don’t wear shoes if you want to be barefoot,” Killen said regarding the rubber, fabric shoe that’s intended for fitness routines.

She said men should also avoid Ed Hardy apparel. “It’s like some men try to find the most bedazzled things.”

She said it’s similar to a male peacock trying to gain attention from a female.

“Jorts,” a term coined by this generation to describe cut-off jean shorts, should not be a part of a man’s wardrobe. Killen said that look is taken from the “YMCA” Village People.

Khakis and light-colored pants are a beneficial alternative, whether for business or casual events. Khakis can then pair with solid v-necks or plain cotton T-shirts.

Men can embrace jewelry as long as gaudy chains, rebel flags and hunting memorabilia are not included.

The spring/summer fashion should be kept bold, fresh, confident and not bedazzled.