By Loren Ridinger

Summer is here and it is getting hot. Many of the trends that we saw for spring are carrying over into these warmer months, but the updates to keep it current are fun and flashy.

Bohemian dresses that drift in the wind, one-shouldered, asymmetrical goddess frocks and poolside caftans are sure to be some of the standout pieces. Of course our favorite designers did not disappoint this season, with Balenciaga, Louis Vuitton, and Lanvin proving once again why their names are on top of every fashionista’s style file watch list. They are crafting designs that remind us why these luxury labels have stood the tests of time, which is their dedication to excellence. As we come to redefine the essence of true luxury we understand that it is about impeccable attention to detail, using the highest quality fabrics, and a talent for sketching and crafting the flattering silhouettes that make us look and feel great.

Hemlines deserve our attention this summer and are a trend with which we can play and have fun. From handkerchief hems to the maxi, floor-length sweeping gowns to the micro minis, there is truly something for everyone from the great fashion houses. In addition to playing with hemlines, another way to ensure that your wardrobe will be ready for summer sizzle is with accessories. The options are endless and are not constricted by any type of conservative rules that we may have adhered to in years past. This summer will definitely be all about the arm candy, and lots of it. Don’t be shy because this season the ruling trend is that when it comes to accessories, the more the better! Whether it be big Tom Ford sunglasses  or Louis Vuitton bangle bracelets, summer accessories are the place to make a statement and demand attention.

When it comes to color trends for the sizzling days and sultry nights, the color of the sun is ruling our wardrobes. Bright and vibrant shades of yellow, from canary to citrine to all shades of the sunrise, can ensure a perky pick up. In addition to all of the vivid hues that emerged in the spring, I have also observed many designers pairing these colorful palettes with black as a base color. This is an easy and convenient way to add some sophistication to any ensemble.

Perhaps the trend that we can have the most fun with during these vacation months is with mixing and matching themes. For example, go for a glam-rock look by pairing studs with rhinestones, or lace with leather. It’s all about having fun this summer and since many of the springtime trends are carrying over, spicing things up with accessories galore is an easy and effective solution.

Now, I would certainly be remiss to talk about summer fashions without mentioning the swimsuit collections, and for this issue I must rave about the new pieces from Herve Leger by Max Azria. The lines of these pieces are truly cut for a woman’s body. They are some of the only suits that really do look better on the body than on the boutique hangers-a rare feat in this sometimes dicey category. I was privileged enough to see a sneak preview of the collection in New York, before it hit the stores and I have to scream it from the rooftops that these suits exude sex appeal and are the most successful attempt in years from a designer to hide the trouble spots while accentuating everything wonderful about the female form. It’s not surprising though. Since coming under the control of Max Azria in 1999, the label has become synonymous with sexiness.

With so many of us choosing to play it safe in the financial sector of our lives in 2009, spicing up the summer wardrobes with hemlines, color and accessories is an easy and exciting feat. There is no need to play it safe with your fashions, as if ever there was a season to go all out and over the top, this one is certainly it.