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Ask An Expert: Upcoming Summer Fashion Trends In Minnesota

Carly Gatzlaff founded A La Mode Wardrobe Consulting in 2011. An entrepreneur who has always kept pace with fashion, her background in styling and fashion wear led to a career as an image and style consultant. Before opening her own business, she taught fashion at a public high school, worked in marketing and communications, and was a personal stylist for a full service Boston styling agency. She was head stylist for a Twin Cities clothing boutique and visual consultant, stylist and personal shopper in retail. A La Mode Wardrobe Consulting services Twin Cities and greater Minnesota.

Carly Gatzlaff
À La Mode Wardrobe Consulting
(651) 560-6398
www.alamodewc.com

For Carly and her fashion team, nothing is more fun and satisfying than making clients feel beautiful from the inside out and outside in. Fashion fluidity that suits a client's personal preference is the way to go, Carly believes. Styling tips and tricks that compliment body type, creating stunning outfits from odds and ends in the closet, selecting colors to suit moods and seasons, and shopping for clothes that flatter are a few of A La Mode's custom services. "Effortless chic and stylish comfort go hand-in-hand with personal shopping," say A La Mode's personal styling consultants. Here are the styles coming up for this summer.       

Lace, Floral, Light Fabrics And Off-The-Shoulder Look Cool In Hot Weather

Last year was the full fringe and flare look of the '70s. This year will be the summer for fringe and lace trim, sheer fabrics and peekaboo cutouts. Summer tops, blouses and dresses will feature off-the-shoulder styles in light cotton, gingham, linen and fabric blends. Many will have bright and muted floral patterns. Lace and floral are expected to��carry over to fall and winter style collections. Lacy ribbons and ties complement and complete business and casual wear.

Mini Might Be In Vogue, But A Maxi Leverages Summer Looks 

The mini or midi skirt may be in vogue for summer. But a maxi skirt or a long dress with artsy accessories does wonders for any figure. Women are leveraging the maxi skirt with a light top or shirt tucked into the waistband. "This gives the waist definition and is one of the best fashion moves for any season," says the wardrobe consulting team. For a coordinated and well-heeled look, dress up the maxi with colorful costume or designer jewelry. Then slip on a pair of heeled sandals or wedged shoes.

The Slub Tee Is A Must-Have For Summer Comfort

Most men and women prefer simplicity in casual wear. Adults of all ages enjoy wearing a basic tee and cuffed denim jeans for comfort and versatility. Slub tee shirts with a scooped or "V" neckline are popular because they look good on anyone. Tucking the tee into a pair of cuffed denims creates a well-proportioned look. Ballet flats, canvas sneakers, sandals and loafers go well with a tee and denims. A small belt or a few small accessories can offset or accentuate a basically casual ensemble.   

Related: Best Personal Stylists And Shoppers In Minnesota

Boots And Sneakers Are In The Running

Last year, the Chukka boot took top spot in fashion footwear. This year, the Chelsea boot is speculated to be the footwear favorite for men and women. However, the canvas sneaker will never go out of style. Worn for sports and hiking, the sneaker is a fashion staple shoe manufacturers are always reinventing. 

Outerwear Is In For Cool Summer Nights

Don't put away the jacket because summer is approaching. Summer evenings in Minnesota can become unexpectedly cool. Although the denim jacket is an all-season outerwear favorite, consumers are also wearing anorak and field jackets. "These jackets layer fluidly and go well with any outfit," notes Carly.

Related: Ask A Minnesota Expert: Fashion-Forward Thinking For Spring 2016


Linda Cameron has written home design, home improvement and lifestyle articles for The Boston Globe and City Shopper Magazine. She has related interests in the building industry, travel, real estate and financing. She is a contributor to Examiner, House Spot, Techsling and Behance, covering topics on career, people, businesses, education and technology.

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