By Karen Poulsen of Bella Moda

Put on a dress this summer, it is all about the dress this season…

With serious roots in the 1960s lady like dresses make a strong return.  Shapes that accentuate curves and flatter in a very feminine way are key.   The full circle skirt and dress anchor this look with a hemline below the knee.  Retro colors and prints enhance the romantic look of these dresses and skirts.

If you are not into the full skirt look then the Bombshell sheath dress may be your sensual look from the early ‘60s.  A straight skirt, high waist, hemline just below the knee with a kick pleat or slit up the back can be accented with a wide cinching belt. This fitted sheath is great sleeveless or with a classic three quarter sleeve.  Another way to achieve this look is with a peg top skirt that is full at the waist with darts or pleats tapering to a narrow hem.  

Speaking of hemlines, what is a Tail Hem and why would we want to wear them? Tail hems are now on a number of fashion forward dresses, skirts and tops.  The tail hem is when the garment is hemmed longer in the back than the front.  It can be like a shirt tail hem with the sides shorter as well, or a simply tapered hem line to a short skirt look in the front. The exaggerated tail hem can go from a mini in the front to a maxi in the back. The traditional petal hem with layers of fabric that overlap to the front like petals of a flower, or another variation can have large drapes or pleats at the back of the dress, skirt or top. A dipping hem will cover yet expose, it is playful and adds a point of difference. It can look completely effortless if cut to resemble an un-tucked shirt or oversized tee.  

Lace dresses and skirts are great for this summer’s classic look.  With quality antique style lace fabrics the lace is used as the garment, not just an added detail. They can be romantic but not too girly; sensual and not overly suggestive. Look for a relaxed cut rather than a tight fitting small stretch lace. If you dare not brave the entire lace dress or skirt, try a lace legging under a tunic dress or skirt.

These wonderfully romantic and feminine trends will carry into the fall fashions, so choose what works best for you and “Dress” it up!