Trends are great, but sometimes figuring out how to wear them can be a little tough. You dare not don a bralette for the office, or you can’t think what’s in your closet to team with oxford shoes. A retro high-waist bikini answers the urge to cover up a little at the beach, but you don’t want to look kitschy. What colors go with the season’s hottest shade, mustard yellow? Here’s a little help. Don’t let hesitation hold you back from trending this summer.

Bodysuit

Don’t let the notion of wearing a bodysuit intimidate you. Think of it as the shirt that won’t ever ride up and look sloppy but will always stay tucked in and looking neat. Now, don’t you feel better about putting together an outfit based on the body suit? Try a denim skirt and platform sneakers. Add hoop earrings and a summery bag.

Mustard Yellow

Mustard yellow actually can be used as a neutral. Consider this trending color a cousin to khaki. Once you start looking at mustard as a neutral, you’ll start seeing a range of possibilities. Start with mustard pants, top with a white tee-shirt, and finish off the look with black sandals and a smart mini-bag.

Bralette

Do you ever wonder what on earth you can wear under summer sheer tops? The bralette is the answer. Few of us other than a handful of models are daring enough to wear a bralette alone under an open blazer. Layer them underneath a transparent top that shows just a little too much, and you’ve got a killer combo for the hottest days.

High-Waisted Bikini Bottoms

Take a page out of the Marilyn Monroe playbook and sound an echo of 1950’s rock and roll this summer with the high-waisted bikini. The smidge of coverage is flattering to all body types, and (shhhh! Dare we say it?) just a touch more modest. Retro without being too kitschy, this summer’s version calls on triangle tops, skirted flaps and strappy cut-outs to lend an aura of chic that great-grandma might not recognize.

Oxford Shoes

Oxfords work well with casual silhouettes such as a wide, relaxed jeans, slinky camisole and practical tote. Contrast their edgy sturdiness with a feminine floral dress to raise the oomph. Or use them to polish off a menswear-inspired outfit. Wear them with everything.

Basket as Purse

When the so-chic leather handbags of fall and winter suddenly seem a touch stodgy as the weather warms, swap them out for the airy, casual cool of baskets.  Woven basket of all shapes and sizes from larger pouches to adorable mini-bags are hitting the city streets as well as the beach. Versatility is a key word here; baskets are the final touch for pulling together your summery outfits. Try new brands such as Le Birkin Basket or Wicker Wings. Or pick one up at Target.