Color is exploding on all the runways , and it's time to liven up your wardrobe. For women, the biggest color trend right now is watercolor (think white with a hint of color), pink, coral, kiwi and blue. For a little more fun, try mixing things up with mustard or red hues -these colors are stunning for night and set off a dramatic look for tans. The nautical look is also back in style, and you can't go wrong with navy and white, with a touch of gold.  For men, the color range includes lagoon greens, sunny orange, cocktail grenadine red and white to add a dash of luminous freshness to the usual hues.

Polka dots and doughnut shapes are the biggest trend in prints, so make sure you're spotted this season. If you think dots are too bold, shop for subtle camouflage or wild safari prints such as leaves or flowers. Ditsy prints are back but for daytime only, and paisley or geometric prints are striking for night. If prints aren't your thing, play it safe with stripes---always a summer classic.

Suit Yourself: Sexy Summer Beachwear
Ladies, the only suit you should be wearing this summer is a swimsuit. This year, mixed prints are the latest trend for bikinis. Search for stripes or paisley with dots, or mix gingham with a ditsy print. Geometric prints are the latest must have, right up there with the solid brown or white swimsuit.  And, of course, floral and ethnic inspired prints are always a summer staple. Ruffles are cute on two-piece suits, but just stick with a little trim on the edges to avoid getting a bulge under your cover-up.  Super small bikinis are great for tanning; just make sure you can move in it. If you're uncomfortable wearing bikini bottoms, opt for the boy-cut look to cover your curves and stay on in the waves. 

If one-piece suits are more your style, remember, solid colors are best: The darker the color, the slimmer you'll look. Suits with rouching on the sides will hide any bumps you might have and suits with different color tipping on the edges will draw the attention outward. Halter-top suits are in, but if you need more support, search for a suit with a built in bra. If you have shorter legs, choose a suit with a high cut on the hips to make your legs appear longer. 

  Whether you're going to the beach, the pool, or the supermarket, everyone needs a cover up, so trade in last year's terry dress and go for separates.  The new must-have for summer is a short sleeve, zip up hooded sweatshirt in summer's fun colors. The short sleeves prevent you from getting too hot and look fabulous when paired with matching shorts. Summer staples for women include the trendy and functional oversized light sweater with a hood and pocket in the front and a cotton jersey gaucho. Just think how cute and comfortable you'll be as you stroll from the beach to the bar!

Summer Essentials
I hope you've been exercising because this summer is all about the skinny. Bermuda shorts and skinny straight leg jeans go best with heels, and those short shorts and mini jean skirts go best with flats. With these looks you just might want to start counting---calories that is! Or, you can always go for a cargo or cropped pair of pants.  This way you can wear any shoes and have all the ice-cream you want.

The 80's inspired long T-shirts and tanks are back and better than ever in a more fitted version. For a little funk, throw on a wide or embellished belt over your shirt at the waist or double up the top.  You can never go wrong with layers. For a little flair, feel free to throw on your favorite tank top over a basic fitted tee.  If you tend to fall asleep on your stomach while sun tanning, rest easy, because this summer is all about the back.  Look for halter tops or shirts with a deep V. If you are feeling a bit risky, you can always wear a top that ties in the back.  Just make sure to double knot it. But, if you're not ready to take it all off, find an adorable empire waist or tunic-inspired top. 

Knit dresses are rolling in this summer like a tidal wave. The length is mini to extra long, the sleeves are long to short, and the details are in the cut. Search for geometric, paisley, or safari prints on basic styles.  If you opt  for  printed dresses,  stay away from details---prints and details are just too much at one time and present quite a sloppy effect. If you choose solid colors, look for details such as eyelets, lace, rouching or even embellishments.  To complete this look, throw on a pair of printed or overstated shoes.

From platform heels, lace-up espadrilles, and strappy sandals, this season's shoes will take you anywhere.  Hunt for shoes with shine, embellishment, or with a little sparkle.  Wooden shoes are back; just make sure to get dropped off at the door (you'll thank me later). And, if you are planning on walking, wear a thong flip flop for day and strappy cork wedge for night. The softness in the cork relieves the pressure from your feet. All of these styles look great with skirts, pants, Bermuda shorts, and gauchos. 

Looking for frills? When it's hot outside the last thing you want to put on is a necklace, especially if you have long hair. The only piece of jewelry that you need is a bracelet. This summer is all about the wrist, so think big! Beaded, braided and bangle bracelets are everywhere, and engraved cuffs and menswear inspired watches are all the rage.  Remember, the bigger, the better---this piece of jewelry is supposed to make a statement, but be careful of tan lines!

Don't put anything on your shoulders this summer except sun-block. Leave spring's big bag at home and grab a clutch, a small wristlet, or a bag with a suitcase handle suitable for any occasion.  Whether you want an embroidered clutch, embellished wristlet, or a solid mini suitcase, keep in mind that these little, light bags are less expensive. So, don't feel guilty supporting you favorite designer. Buy them all!

Now that you know all of the latest trends for summer, go to the mall, find your perfect swimsuit, and while you're there, take a dive into fashion! 

Melissa Knieriem has a degree in Fashion Design and works in the fashion industry. She's assisted in many fashion shows, and her original designs have been displayed throughout Center City, Philadelphia.