A summer trend that I’m noticing popping up everywhere is the not-so-nautical stripe, in black, grey, and white shades. These summer stripes are often unevenly spaced, irregularly sized, and sometimes distributed over a garment in varying directions (horizontal, vertical, diagonal). I like these stripes on loose, faded pieces that fall perfectly and nonchalantly, such as the Grey/Black Stripe Ripped Knot Tee by Obesity and Speed and the Border Tie-Dye Short Sleeve V-Neck by C&C California, shown below (L-R).

My Summer Stripe Trend guide contains tons of unique pieces (tops, dresses, purses, shoes, etc.) that take nautical to the dark side, which means these stripes will carry you from day to night and from summer to fall.

Also pictured (above, L-R): Striped Crop Top by Charlotte Russe, Lela Rose for Payless Brinley Ribbon Pump, and Varigated Striped Tight by Urban Outfitters.

Nautical is always in for summer, but plain stripes on plain tees get old fast. The key to rocking this look through summer 2009 and beyond is to seek out stripes on tees with unexpected fabrics and fun stylistic flourishes. My favorite picks from a whole flock of hot tops in Striped Tops With a Twist are below (L-R):

Eco-Ganik Stripe Pocket Tank, Splendid White Rugby Stripe T-Shirt, BGD Scoopneck Tee

For some of us, swimsuit season has already begun. For those who haven’t found the time yet to pick out a new suit to strut around in, I’ve done the work for you! I’ve been keeping an eye out for hot swimwear for the past couple of months and have complied a number of different buyer’s guides that I hope will help you choose your perfect suit for this summer!

Free People Swimsuits are natural, colorful, feminine, and boho-chic.
Retro Swimsuits are making a comeback. Highlight your figure in a one or two-piece vintage suit.
Basic Black Bikinis will never fail you! I promise!
One-piece Cutout Swimwear is sexy and sophisticated. Pile on sunscreen to avoid awkward tanlines!
Sexy Swimsuits come in all shapes and cuts, so you won’t want to overlook this shopper’s guide.

Shown (from left): Sailor Jane Nautical Swimsuit, Solar Orbit Bikini, Monokini by Sauvage, Cheetah by Sauvage, and Melissa Odabash Wood-Link Halter Bikini.

Those who know me are aware of the fact that I’m not one to sport the clean-cut, polo shirt and khaki American Girl look. But I do admit to owning a pair of anchor earrings and a shorty striped nautical sweater. And I do want to holler at a polo shirt in the near future.

I think the fashion industry has succeeded in making Nautical Nancy less “Nancy” and more “Nikki.” It’s funkier (see Hey Sailor! Stretch Charm Bracelet), more pinup than prissy (see Ahoy Skirted Bikini), and way less reserved for those who want to add just a touch of sexy sailor style to their wardrobe (see Wideleg Sailor Trousers). Nautical’s hot (if you don’t go overboard with it! hehe). Add some cherry red lips for hotness ahoy!