Are you planning to attend a few summer shindigs and backyard BBQs with your loved ones? A fabulous white dress will show off glowing skin perfectly.  Drop a couple hints to the husband or get yourself a pretty new dress as a gift. I came across three dresses that are just perfect for poolside cocktails and garden parties.

(Image: Nordstrom)

A white Eyelet Dress ($368) is a classic summer silhouette.  This strapless number by Shoshanna would look fantastic with a few minimal gold or silver accessories. The empire waist is flattering and the ruffled bodice is playful.

(Image: Nordstrom)

This Kensie Belted Silk Chiffon Party Dress ($168) is ever so girly and sweet. The ruffles at the hem, black trim accents and tie and the peter pan collar are such adorable details.  This dress is girly but it’s not over the top either.  Wear it to a garden party with black heeled sandals and a cute clutch.

(Image: Nordstrom)

This pretty Tiered Burnout Silk Dress ($178) by Maggy London is another perfect summer party dress.  This is an easy way to wear the ruffle trend without the added bulk. The burnout detail all over gives the dress a bit of interest so it’s not so plain and stark white.

Since it was supposed to rain here in (perpetually sunny) Southern California, I thought it would be a great time to see if there were any great looking coats and other such outerwear available for Spring.  A stylish trench coat would make a great gift as it is a classic fashion item that can be worn every fall, winter and/or spring, day or night. These 4 trench coats definitely fit the bill!

(Image: Bloomingdales)

Juicy Couture Skirted Trench Coat; $348
A classic a-line silhouette, double-breasted trench coat is just the right style to take her from work to play. Details include a rounded collar, flattering empire waist seaming, 3/4 sleeves, tab buckled cuffs and of course, epaulets.

(Image: Bloomingdales)

Elie Tahari Packable Trench Coat; $250
This trench coat is water-resistant, lightweight and will inject a great pop of orange to cheer up those grey days. It features ornate buttons, side pocket, buckled tabbed cuffs, back vent and comes with a travel bag so you can pack it away when you don’t need it. Pretty cool idea!

(Image: Bloomingdales)

Marc New York Asymmetrical Trench Coat; $195
Love the modern take on the classic trench coat. The asymmetrical hidden zip and snap front of this coat is totally chic and perfect for the girl dances to the beat of her own drum.

(Image: Bloomingdales)

Juicy Couture Women’s Ruffled Cuff Trench Coat; $358
Another cute coat, this time in bright yellow. Do you know someone bold enough to wear it? The bright shade is complemented by double breasted style and 3/4 sleeves. Very girly and fun!

(Images: Bloomingdales)

I recently got to try out a “hip-T” - it’s basically the lower half of a t-shirt, with an elasticized waistband.

It was created by Christine & Kelley, two women who got tired of being self conscious while wearing their favorite low-rise jeans - after all, no one likes to flash their underwear!

The hip-t is worn over your pants, but underneath your shirt - it just looks like another t-shirt or lace-trimmed camisole underneath:

I tried my hip-t (disclosure, I got a free one to try out) during a shopping trip, driving my car and sitting in  cafe having coffee.  It fit true to size and was comfortable to wear - I didn’t even notice an extra layer.  I was impressed with the comfort and stability of the hip-t - I needed to adjust it after climbing out of the car, but it stayed put otherwise.

I’m quite long-waisted, so even normal rise pants tend to end up as low-rise on me - the hip-t is definitely going to be a part of my wardrobe from now on

images: Hip-T