The world of fashion and glam changes color as the seasons turn. As tangerine and most hues of orange remain the dominant colors from last spring, mint green is also slowly joining most international catwalks.
Last spring’s bronze shades turn gold this summer — match them with black, white or gray to decrease their intensity. Pastels continue to dominate the runways, and layering pastel hues all at once seems to show the dreamy side of this season’s fashion.
Maxi seems to be the name of the game this season, with lengthy skirts and colorful, pleated midis making a comeback. Chiffon maxi skirts seem to be the new fad, available in Zara, Mango and most other high-street fashion stores.
Oversized hats are still in from last summer, so head to Accessorize or Women’s Secret and get yourself a floppy boater. The two-piece women’s suit is also still in. Fitted jackets with ruffles around the waist and figure-hugging pencil skirts represent the chic formal items in this summer’s wardrobe.
For evening wear, the Roaring Twenties dominate, with flapper dresses, skullcaps and dangly glass beads representing the new soiree trend.
Another echo of the past this season is a fashion surprise: high-waisted “grandma” bikinis. Hit the beach with glam — metallic colors and shimmering materials are especially popular this season.
As for makeup and beauty, thick, un-tweezed eyebrows are definitely the look to go for.
Bold eye color is the real deal, and aqua blue seems to dominate the fashion world. Although not always flattering, warm, copper eye shadows and soft, smoky, golden eyes are also taking the runways by storm. But be careful — such hues can have a negative, dramatic effect.
This summer, tainted red lips, often a wintery trend, are very present, paired with artistically drawn eyes like that of the late singer Amy Winehouse.
For hair, the catwalks featured slick and cleanly combed ponytails. Accessorized updos are also in, especially for parties and weddings. Braids and wet twists also made their way into this season’s fashion shows. They’re perfect for the beach and make hair easy to manage.
How to keep your cool
With something for every budget in our must-have guide, there’s no excuse for not looking fabulous this summer.
Below LE100
Pick up a ring with a message — everything from “I heart chocolata” to “Keep calm and eat cupcakes” — to give your summer accessories a little punch (LE65–85).
Keep your skin naturally fabulous with PrimRose Ice Cream Body Scrub (LE60). The sea salt and sugar provide shine, and the almond and olive oils provide much-needed moisture.
LE100–300
To keep your hair healthy and fresh, opt for a Fusio dose of made-to-measure professional hair-care treatment (LE125). Hairdressers Kriss and Mohamed al-Sagheer offer it at their salons around the city. The hair treatment is custom-made for your hair needs, and the repairing potion is prepared right in front of your eyes at the salon.
Multicolored and printed Shibshibi flip-flops (LE100) are one of this summer’s basics and can be found at Zafir in Zamalek, as well as online at the BungalowH and Style Treasure websites.
LE300–500
By Lisa jellies (LE350) are still a hot favorite this season. The designer keeps the general design from last summer but adds beads and colorful stones for decoration. Go for bright, neon colors to make a statement.
Zara’s long, colorful jersey skirt with splits (LE399) is elegant yet daring, with the short lining giving it a funky flavor. It’s perfect for summer gatherings by the beach.
This piece was originally published in Egypt Independent's weekly print edition.
