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Leopard print is always prevalent in fashion, a classic mainstay pattern that never seems to go out of style. Over the past few seasons, however, leopard print has exploded into a full on fad, finding it’s way in every category from footwear to women’s wear, menswear, accessories, outerwear, and even upholstery.

Here are seven ways to incorporate the leopard print trend into outfits that could be worn in these last few weeks of summer and into the fall.

1. The lightweight Cardigan

Light cardigans are great for those transitional times between seasons. Pair them with shorts for warmer days and skinnies for cooler days. A lightweight, soft, brushed surfaced rayon/poly/Lycra blend like the Tan Leopard Print Jersey Knit is a great pick for a late summer cardi.

2. The Pencil Skirt

A pencil skirt in a solid and durable fabric like the Golden Beige Cheetah Stretch Twill, is a great go-to. It can be paired with a tank and sandals in the last few weeks of summer and easily transition to a cooler weather garment when paired with a long sleeved top and boots. This pencil skirt in combination with another big current trend, the denim jacket, makes for a super modern and versatile look.

3. The Harem Pants

Pair the trendy harem pant in a lightweight, flowing fabric like Pale Tan Cheetah Jersey Knit with your favorite basic summer crop top for a super stylish look that could go from day to night. With the addition of a chunky knit sweater, the ensemble could easily be worn into the cooler fall months.

4. The Romper

Rompers are extremely comfortable one-pieces that are perfect stylish casual wear for summer, especially in cool, lightweight 100% cotton fabrics like White Cheetah Voile. Throw a lightweight jacket over the top, and you’ve got yourself a super easy and comfortable fall time outfit.

5. The Sheer Top

A lightweight sheer chiffon like Charcoal/Black Cheetah Chiffon makes a great, highly versatile piece that can be worn in a number of different ways; as a bathing suit cover up, over a bandeau and shorts in the summer, or paired with a tank top and jeans or leggings for the fall.

6. The Maxi Dress

Maxi dresses are extremely popular for the summer, spring and fall so it’s no wonder that they are being seen in a number of different leopard print fabrics like Brown Cheetah Challis, Grey Cheetah Challis, and White Cheetah Challis.

7. The Drawstring Shorts

Paired with a pair of stockings, boots and a jacket, shorts can easily go from summer to fall. Leopard shorts look especially great as the focal point of an otherwise all-black ensemble.

Seersucker fabric, once reserved for the suiting of southern gentlemen, has become a tried-and-true summer fashion fabric favorite due to its light weight, durability and breathability. This summer, seersucker is getting a modern makeover, being incorporated into a variety of different garments and accessories from swimwear, to bow ties, to children’s wear.

Here is a breakdown of some contemporary designs that incorporate traditional seersucker in some not-so-traditional ways.

Swimwear

Classic blue stripe seersucker and pink check seersucker has been making an appearance in swimwear this summer. Cute and flirty bandeau tops with large bows or ruffles are particularly popular.

Accessories

Seersucker accessories for both men and women are a big trend this summer, acting as focal points to casual and preppy outfits. Ties in both the classic long tie and bow tie variety, as well as belts and scarves are being constructed out of bright seersuckers like yellow stripe seersucker fabric, lavender stripe seersucker fabric, and lime stripe seersucker fabric.

Children’s Wear

The durability, ruggedness, comfort, and stain-masking pattern of seersucker has made it a popular pick in children’s wear as of late, making an appearance in bibs, onesies, overalls, shorts, tops, skirts and rompers. Darker shades like red stripe seersucker fabric, royal blue seersucker fabric, navy check seersucker fabric, and red check seersucker fabric are particularly popular in children’s wear.

Loungewear and pajamas

Seersucker loungewear and pajamas are very popular this summer. Super light weight seersuckers like White/brown seersucker fabric and black plaid seersucker fabric make perfect summer lounge wear and pajama fabrics, keeping the wearer cool even on the hottest of summer nights.

Shorts

Classic striped seersucker fabric shorts with decorative embellishments like a side embroidery overlay, a bow belt, or a scalloped hem have been a big trend in women’s wear this summer.

Dresses

Solid colored seersucker, particularly in neutrals and pastels like white seersucker fabric, golden tan seersucker fabric, pale lavender seersucker fabric, and sky blue seersucker fabric, has been seen in very feminine, dainty dress designs this summer, often with princess seams, full skirts and a large bow tie design detail either in the front or back.

Pencil Skirts

This summer, seersucker has also been seen in the pencil skirt style, which looks great with a matching blazer for a feminine suit style, but also looks great when paired with less formal garments for a more relaxed look. This skirt combines three different colored seersuckers; lime stripe seersucker fabric, royal blue seersucker fabric, and red stripe seersucker fabric into one design.

Summer is great time to practice your sewing skills, fabrics are lightweight and manageable and there are plenty of simple patterns from summer dresses to shorts that even a novice could pull off. Here are some simple dress, shorts and skirt patterns that are perfect for summer and easy to execute along with easy-to-sew, yet super trendy fabrics to construct them from.

Skirts

This semi-fitted skirt has a contour waist and yoke, pleats and a back zipper and is a very easy sewing pattern. The beauty about this pattern is that not only is the shape flattering on nearly any body type, but it can be adjusted to be any length. For a full, professional look use a stiffer, sold woven fabric like sandy tan rayon gabardine or light brown twill, for a bouncy, flirty effect use a lightweight fabric like challis or a Tencel. A super lightweight, flowing feminine skirt style like this extremely easy-to-sew pattern is a great summer piece; it’s breathable, cool and easy to pair. It can be made in a maxi length, above the knee and in shaped hem variations both front, back and side high-low. This style is particularly flattering in patterned crepe fabrics like white/pink crepe de chine and beige/black chevron crepe de chine and various linens.

Shorts

Everyone needs a pair of comfortable elastic-waist cloth shorts to throw on for those super hot days and luckily, these are one of the most basic sewing patterns for a garment. Use a terry cloth for a pair you can wear to the beach, linen for a versatile dress up or down style or a silk for a super comfortable style with a dressy appearance. These loose, above-the-knee, fly-front, semi-fitted, straight leg city shorts are another easy sewing project and are a breezy, comfortable style for summer wear. A perfect style to be made from a lightweight denim like smoky black denim or khaki tan stretch twill for a casual look or fabrics like, sterling twill stripe twill or navy blue fine line twill for a dressier, more professional appearance.

Dresses

The wrap dress is a super simple pattern with very few components and a variety of styles can be made from one pattern ranging in collar type, sleeve and skirt length. For summer, opt for a short sleeve or sleeveless style in a lightweight woven fabric like pale lavender shirting or sterling pewter grey denim or a lightweight jersey. Stick to a woven fabric if you are a beginner, as jersey is much more difficult to manipulate. The simple tank top sleeve jersey sheath dress is a summer wardrobe staple and a super easy sewing project, so why not save some benjamins and make your own this summer! With one pattern you can get 6 different styles including scoop neck, V-neck, maxi length, short, slit and even the trending high-low seam. This summer, multi-colored, lightweight jersey fabrics like tan/brown jersey knit are ever popular for this dress style.

As we enter into summer’s hottest month, we find ourselves spending more and more time in swimsuits, cooling off beach, lake or poolside. Luckily, gone are the days when women had essentially two options for swimwear, skimpy triangle-top bikinis or modest, full coverage one pieces. Modern swimwear designers have ventured past these binary options into a much more unique, fun, adventurous and innovative sphere of bathing suits for women, providing a myriad of shapes and styles to choose from. This summer, there are six clear front-running trends when it comes to bathing suit styles, and Fashion Fabrics Club has the perfect swimwear material in trending colors and patterns that are perfect for making these looks. Here is a breakdown of the six sexiest swimwear styles of 2014:

1. The Bandeau

A prevalent style in more than just the swimwear arena, the bandeau has been a trend for the last few seasons, making it’s appearance both under shirts and alone as a top (mostly for the younger demographics). The bandeau is a great, comfortable style for women with a smaller bust who don’t need to worry about having a strap. The bandeau style is particularly popular in neon and other bright colors like Hot Pink Swimwear and also in more neutral shades like Ecru Swimwear.

2. Fringe

A continuing trend from last summer, fringe is still a popular pick for bathing suit tops from halters, bandeaus, triangle tops, one-pieces and everything in-between. They come in any number of solid colors, but this design detail looks especially striking when combined with a striped, multi-colored pattern like Brown/Black Stripe Swimwear and Aqua Blue/Coral Stripe Swimwear.

3. Ruffle

Ruffles have been making their appearance in the swimwear category as a flattering design element in everything from one-pieces to string bikinis. It creates a fluidity that is less conspicuous than the fringe look, offering an innocent and girly component to the look, especially when in light, pastel colors like Rosy Pink Swimwear.

4. Crop Top

Especially popular among the more sports-oriented, like surfers and beach volleyball players, the crop top bathing suit is wonderful for those days when you want to be more active than just laying out, soaking in the sun. The crop top is full coverage, very stable and supportive; you never have to worry about accidental exposure. With the crop top trend in casual shirts, these can even double as a top when paired with shorts, pants or a skirt, especially when in an easily paired color like Powder Blue Swimwear, Light Periwinkle Blue Swimwear, or Wedgewood Blue Swimwear.

5. Vintage-Inspired/Retro High Waist

The high waists of the 1950s are making their mark on women’s swimwear this season. The high waist gives a flattering, slimming effect, perfect for women with curves or a little extra padding around the hips and waist without having to opt for a full out one-piece. This Topshop suit is a great example of the retro look in a fun emerald Green Swimwear.

6. Monokini

Not yet a full-fledged trend (but it will be soon, you heard it here first!), the monokini is a cross between a bikini and a one piece. It has some kind of fun, often intricate, cut-out around the middle section making for a unique, eye-catching look. This Beach Riot monokini is in a Pale Green Swimwear fabric with side cutouts, but they come in a number of different designs and colors and there are sure to be many more on next year’s shelves!

Getting caught in a passing rainstorm is one of summer’s more magical moments, along with catching fireflies, taking midnight swims and napping in the warm sun. Everyone needs a lightweight summer raincoat that not only keeps them dry, but also cool and stylish. This summer, there are a number of shapes, styles, and colors to choose from when it comes to raingear, from cute feminine trench styles to athletic zip-ups. No matter what look you are going for, there are plenty of options for staying stylish with your summer raingear, and Fashion Fabrics Club has the durable, comfortable, and fashionable rainwear materials perfect for constructing any number of rain jacket styles.

For a versatile option, use a slinky, satiny, lightweight polyester in a neutral color like beige, taupe, or navy (like the Sapphire Satin Rainwear). In a mid-thigh length and a belt around the natural waistline, this style can be paired with anything from casual jeans to a more formal summer dress. This fabric is super lightweight and comfortable, keeping the wearer cool even in the hot summer heat. It should be noted, however, that this fabric tends to wrinkle very easily. If folded for packing, make sure to hang it immediately upon arrival – the wrinkles will smooth out on their own after only a few hours of hanging.

For a professional, classic, and timeless rain jacket, opt for a variation of brown, like Light Brown Rainwear (a shiny satin finish, 100% polyester), Chocolate Rain Slicker (100% polyester), or Smoky Brown Rain Slicker (100% polyester). This color looks especially ravishing in the classic double-breasted, belted and lined trench style (think Burberry), but also looks great in more athletic designs like a hooded zip-up or pull over style.

Don’t be afraid to use your raincoat as a statement piece. Donning a rain jacket in a fun color like Orange Red Rainwear (100% nylon) is a great way to brighten up a rainy day. You can use this piece as the focal point of the outfit, pairing it with more neutral shades so the jacket really pops, or pair it with a colorful outfit for an even more striking appearance.

White doesn’t often come to mind when thinking about raingear, but in a solid, durable 100% polyester fabric like White Slicker, you don’t have to worry about it showing dirt or wear. White looks especially great in feminine styles like knee-length, full-skirted trenches (major style points for pulling off heels in the rainy weather!), but also looks great made into shorter, sportier, hooded styles as well.

Comfortable, well-fitting shorts are a quintessential part of the style maven’s summer wardrobe. Shorts can be dressed up for a party with heels and a blazer or thrown on with a T-shirt and flip-flops for a stroll on the boardwalk. Made in a variety of different lengths, from thigh to knee, shorts have the ability to compliment nearly any body type while simultaneously providing comfort and mobility.

This summer, the trends for shorts are in no short supply, ranging from sophisticated lace to festival-worthy embroidered cotton. Here is a list of the top ten trends for shorts for summer 2014.

1. Lace

A clear trend for summer shorts this year is lace, particularly in white, cream and Ivory Lace and in various Floral Lace patterns. The lace can overlay the entire garment, or can be used as an accent on pockets and seams. An especially popular style is a tiered lace overlay, giving the shorts a dressy, skirt-like appearance.

2. Scalloped Hem

A scalloped seam along the short’s bottom hem is a very popular look this summer. Though the scalloped hem is an embellishment that can be added to any pair of shorts, the solid black or white in slinky, dress weight fabrics like Black Sueded Shantung (100% rayon) are particularly trendy – a modern take on a classic look.

3. Colorful Aztec Print

Lightweight rayons and polyesters are great fabrics for making comfortable, flouncing shorts. This summer Aztec prints in bright, colorful patterns like White Aztec Stripe Challis, Red Multi Aztec Stripe Challis, and Black/Purple Stripe Georgette are trending.

4. Classic Blue Denim

Whether they be high-waisted, cut off, cuffed, acid wash, or ripped… you can’t go wrong with a pair of great fitting denim shorts. For a more trend-resistant option, go for the darker washes like Mottled Dark Blue Denim, Dark Navy Blue Denim, or Dark Blue Denim.

5. Embroidery Embellishments

Reminiscent of the hippie era, embroidered cotton in tribal patterns like Multi Stripe Embroidered Cotton and Grey/Purple Embroidered Stripe Cotton is popping up as embellishments on shorts, particularly as accent pockets.

6. Linen

A perfect summer fabric, linen makes its appearance in the summer short arena in neutral colors this year like Olive Tan Linen (55% linen, 45% rayon) and Army green linen (100% linen), usually in loose styles with a drawstring and big, functional pockets.

7. White Denim

The white denim skinny jean craze of summer’s predecessor seasons has morphed into a fad for white denim shorts. The key here is in the fabric, white shorts need to be soft, but also super durable – the perfect solution is to use a White Bull Denim.

8. Bow Tie-Belted

Lightweight cotton shorts with big pockets, cuffed bottoms and a cloth belt bow tied in the front are a hot seller this year, particularly in soft neutrals like Heather Grey Denim.

9. Geometric

Geometric patterns in bright colors like Pink Geometric Charmeuse (97% polyester, 3% lycra) and Green Geometric Cotton (100% cotton) are popular in shorts this season, particularly in high-waisted, short-short styles.

10. Floral Beach Shorts

Beach shorts get a super feminine make over this summer with the addition of floral patterns like Black Floral Challis, Black/White Floral Challis, Dark Ivory/Blue Floral Challis and tassel accents.

Floral Trend Report: Resort 2015 Collections

Floral motifs were a common theme and a clear trend in the collections shown in the 2015 Resort runway shows last month. Each of the many designers who used floral patterns in their collections did so in their own unique and original way, varying in color, size, fabric, style and mood. Here is a breakdown of some of the many ways designers used floral patterns in their 2015 Resort Collections:

Thom Browne showed small, repetitive black-and-white floral motifs like White/Black Floral Lawn in sophisticated styles like cardigan sets, high-waisted A-line skirts, suits, button-up dress shirts and sheath dresses.

Valentino displayed aratherutilitarian collection (an anomaly for typical resort collections), showcasing pieces like canvas bomber jackets, midi skirts and sensible espadrille sandals. The use of large, colorful floral patterns like Black/Pink Floral Chiffon, Black/Purple Floral Chiffon and Gold Floral Georgette added a whimsical element to the more feminine styles in the designer’s everyday themed collection.

Giambattista Valli took a nostalgic route with his resort collection this year. With a nod to the flower power children of the era, Valli used small floral prints to ornament his 60s and 70s-style looks in a palette of yellow, lavender, pink and white. From bell-bottom pants with a small floral pattern like Brown/Yellow Floral Lawn to cocktail dresses in lace floral like Blue Floral Lace, the collection emanated a fun, playful attitude.

From short shorts to full-length, elegant ball gowns, Andrew GN incorporated colorful, pretty floral patterns on the various designs of his very feminine collection. Larger-scale patterns like Navy Blue Floral Lawn appeared on sophisticated red carpet-style gowns while brightly colored, medium-sized prints like Black/Pink Floral Georgette adorned the sportier designs like matching shorts and jacket sets.

Floral prints showed their romantic side in luxe beachwear designer, Nicky Zimmerman’s 2015 Resort Collection. In breezy, structured, openwork lattice lace and crocheted dresses, floral designs like Light Brown Floral Lawn, Beige Floral Lawn and Brown/Coral Floral Lawn were used to add an element of color, texture and romance to the already sexy designs.

Fashion Fabrics Club is running a special promotion in honor of the 4^th of July, offering free shipping and a sale on fabrics. So, what better time to stock up on some of this summer’s hottest prints and patterns in the patriotic color scheme of red, white and blue?

You don’t have to wear American flag-inspired designs, adorned with gaudy stars and stripes to show your patriotism – as they say, often times less is more. A simple, understated fabric with the red, white and blue color scheme is a subtle and understated way to signify your American pride fashionably, without stepping into the realm of tacky. Here are some great options for fabrics that subtly display nationalism and can be easily incorporated into a number of different fashionable designs and styles for this summer’s get-togethers.

Floral

This Tan/Red Floral Charmeuse is a lightweight, 100% polyester fabric with a pale tan, red, navy blue and white floral swirl print. Ideal for outdoor summer BBQs, this fabric would look great in flowing, feminine styles like sleeveless blouses, flirty dresses and circle skirts.

Plaid

Plaid is easy to pair and a go-to pattern this summer, and gauze is a super breathable, lightweight fabric that feels almost weightless when worn – a perfect combination for those hot and sticky summer days. The White/Blue Plaid Gauze and Red/Blue Plaid Crinkled Gauze are both 100% cotton, lightweight, red, white and blue plaid fabrics that are ideal for summer blouses and dresses.

Abstract Prints

For a fun abstract print, the sporadic red and blue check of the Red/Navy Blue Sateen Shirting adds a youthful element to the typical red, white and blue scheme. Perfect for loose, summer blouses, this 100% cotton fabric can be used to construct a number of different fun, fashionable and patriotic designs.

Stripes

Stripes have been an ever-prominent trending print for this summer, particularly in long, tight or flowing maxi dresses. For a version suitable for 4^th of July festivities, use a fabric with a subtle nod to nationalism like the lightweight, 100% cotton Red Stripe Sateen, which has a white and navy blue uneven stripe print. The stripe will add a flattering element to the design and the red, white and blue pattern is so subtle that it could be worn anytime.

Slub T-shirts

Slubbed fabrics are comprised of yarns with an uneven structure, causing a textured pattern of randomized stripes or streaks, resembling quick strokes of a painters fine brush and often running in the horizontal direction. These fabrics are often very soft, making them popular in the t-shirt and leisurewear categories. This lightweight polyester White Jersey Knit has teal blue, bright red and gold horizontal streaks, a very soft feel and a slight stretch, making it a perfect option for a super subtle display of patriotism in casualwear pieces like crew or V-neck t-shirts for men and women.

Seersucker

A nice seersucker blazer or pair of shorts in a red, white and blue pattern like the 100% cotton Red Plaid Seersucker fabric is perfect for a more dressed up outing, but still keeps the wearer cool and comfortable in a super breathable fabric.

From outerwear, to accessories, to footwear, military-inspired styles and prints have a major influence on modern day fashions. This summer, the ever-popular camouflage fabric design maintains its spot in the limelight as a trending print, particularly in neutral and earthy tones. The classic camouflage print and the more modern pixelated digital camouflage print are giving feminine designs a hardened edge in this summer’s women’s wear collections, in fabrics that range from durable twills to lightweight, slinky charmeuse.

Skinny continues to reign as the king of jean styles for women, and this summer, colored and printed skinny jeans are all the rage. Durable, yet comfortable and breathable twill cotton blends with a slight stretch are a great option for summer jeans. For easy pairing, opt for a neutral color scheme like Tan Camouflage Twill (97% cotton, 3% lycra), which has a slightly brushed, soft surface.

Summer is all about enjoying and basking in the beauty of the outdoors, so a rugged pair of shorts is essential to any adventurous girl’s wardrobe. A super durable, 100% cotton twill like the Green Camouflage Twill for a pair of shorts like these Dani Love cut-offs, guarantee the shorts will keep their shape and resist tearing after multiple wears, washes, and spontaneous summer adventures.

Taslan, known as a “parachute type fabric,” is durable, water repellant, lightweight and breathable, making it a perfect material for outer garments worn in warmer weather. Given its military origins, it should come at no surprise that the fabric is popular in the camouflage print variety. This summer, the newer digital camouflage print like Taslan All Purpose Camo #7 (85% nylon, 15% cotton) and Taslan All Purpose Camo #8 (85% nylon, 15% cotton) is popular in women’s jackets like this bomber from The Ragged Priest.

Camouflage also takes on a softer side this summer, embellishing flowing skirts, slim-fitting summer dresses and slinky, sexy blouses. Short, flirty skirts are popular in lightweight cotton blends like Camo Print Bolt (65% polyester, 35% cotton), this mixture of a feminine style and an edgy print creates a super chic and modern look.

The classic jersey knit summer dress gets a modern makeover this summer with the addition of neutral camouflage prints like the lightweight, super soft Taupe/Black Camo Jersey Knit (100% cotton). Unlike solid colored jersey knit dresses that can sometimes hug in the wrong places, the camouflage print adds a flattering element for a woman of any size.

With a hint of a sheen and a flirty, flowing drape, a camouflage print satin charmeuse fabric like True Timber Conceal Satin Bolt (100% polyester) has a modern edge that gives a hint of attitude to an otherwise soft and girly blouse style.

Traveling in Comfort, Style and Ease

Vacation season is upon us, and whether we jet set to another country or jump in the car for a weekend adventure nearby, the conundrum of packing remains the same. Travel wear has to easily fit into a bag and still be able to look great when thrown on, even after spending hours compacted in a tight space, being schlepped from point A to point B. Not an easy feat.

Some fabrics are much better than others when it comes to travelling and luckily, this summer’s fashions come in a variety of these comfortable, lightweight, wrinkle-resistant materials.

Jersey dresses are super comfortable and a great option when packing. Even long maxi length dresses can be folded up into space-saving sizes, and the jersey knit construction gives the fabric a nearly wrinkle-free ability. What little wrinkles do manage to form in a jersey knit vanish naturally when worn or hung, especially when in a more humid environment. This season, animal print jersey knit dresses in both lightweight cottons like Black/White Zebra Jersey Knit (100% cotton) and rayon blends like Brown Cheetah Rayon Matte Jersey (98% rayon, 2% lycra) in slinky, form-fitting styles are in high popularity.

Jersey wrap dresses are also very popular this summer, especially in chevron stripe prints in stretchy polyester blends like ITY Magenta/Black Chevron Jersey Knit (97% polyester, 3% lycra) and ITY Blue Multi Chevron Jersey Knit (97% polyester, 3% lycra). This material is perfect for traveling, being mostly composed of polyester makes the fabric completely wrinkle-resistant and the slight stretch allows for a super comfortable and flattering fit.

Casual t-shirts are timeless summer staples that make great travel companions.

Lightweight jersey knits in light, neutral colors like Pewter Grey Jersey Knit (97% rayon, 3% lycra) are great for summer tees. The white undertones and horizontal slubs give the shirt a more casual feel. This summer, pocket tees like this Rag & Bone tee are especially trendy.

Lightweight, stretchy cotton denim shorts in dark colors like Midnight Navy Stretch Denim (96% cotton, 4% lycra) make super soft, lightweight and easy-to-pack bottoms that are easily paired, as they can be either dressed up or down.

For an even lighter weighted fabric for super breathable, comfortable travelling shorts, opt for a solid-colored rayon like Charcoal Grey Rayon Challis, Champagne Brown Rayon Challis, Copper Brown Rayon Challis, Dark Brown Rayon Challis, or Brushed Grey Rayon Challis.

Lightweight flannel like Sterling Grey/Fuschia Plaid Flannel (100% cotton) is (surprisingly) extremely breathable and practically wrinkle-free, a great option for light, comfortable summer long-sleeved button-up shirts or even pajama bottoms.

Lightweight denim shirts are an essential wardrobe piece this summer. Soft fabrics like Navy Blue Stretch Denim (98% cotton, 2% lycra) with white undertones and a vertical streak look great in a button-up, collared style and can be paired with nearly anything.

The “little black dress” has been a staple in women’s wardrobes since the famous French fashionista Coco Chanel popularized the look back in the 1920s. Mainstay pieces like little black dresses remain impervious to fads and trend cycles due to their ability to be easily and simply updated from season to season, whether it be by adding accessories, overlays, or other design elements.

This summer, sheer mesh continues to be a popular trend in women’s wear, particularly as a modern design accent in short dresses and skirts. Here are some easy ways to include the summer mesh trend into the classic little black dress look.

Using an overlay of a black polka dotted nylon sheer material like Black Dot Mesh brings a youthful element to the mature little black dress. The dubious mixture of sexy sheer and a cute print makes the polka dotted mesh fabric perfect for adding a unique hint of modest seduction to the ensemble.

Putting a Black Pleated Mesh overlay over a floral patterned fit and flare like this Bloomingdale’s dress not only gives a more mature, formal look to a youthful print and style, but also brings an added textural element with the pleat design. Continue the overlay past the hem of the shell to add even more texture to the look.

Without going overboard, a Black Floral Mesh overlay on a form fitting, slinky dress style adds even more sex appeal to an already maturely sexy ensemble – maintaining an air of mystique.

Adding a sheer, horizontally striped mesh fabric like, Black Stripe Stretch Mesh as an overlay is an easy way to give a simple and classic A-line skirt a modern edge. The overlay gives off a bit of an attitude and adds volume and a flirty flounce without being bulky or heavy.

Lightweight scarves are essential when it comes to summer accessories. Whether worn knotted as a headscarf or flowing around the neck, summer scarves are an easy way to add a little flair to your outfit. Summer scarves provide just the right amount of warmth for those cool summer nights and can be paired with just about any outfit. This summer, lightweight scarves are a major trend, seen paired with casual tanks and shorts and complimenting summer dresses from mini to maxi lengths. The most popular fabrics for summer scarves are lightweight and usually of a loose construction, allowing for maximum airflow and a light, breezy feel. 100% fine cotton is a common pick for a summer scarf material, particularly in loose weaves and in featherweights like in the Salmon Red Shirting. This season, these scarves are being seen in long lengths and with fringed edges. Even though the tendency is to steer clear of polyester in the warmer weather months given its poor breathability, when the yarns are loosely woven, the fabric has enhanced airflow. This type of polyester fabric finds popular use in the summer fabric arena given its lightweight and great drape. Polyester charmeuse has a slight sheen and a silky feel, making it a perfect scarf fabric. This summer, geometric patterns like Forest Green/White Charmeuse and hounds tooth are popular. Lightweight polyester jersey knits make wonderful summer scarf material as well. This season, striped infinity scarves in polyester jersey knits are popular in an array of colors from neutrals to neons like Neon yellow stripes jersey knit. Rayon has a super soft hand and great drape, making it a popular summer scarf fiber. 100% rayon fabric in chevron stripe patterns like Multicolor Chevron Challis and in the circle/infinity scarf style are particularly trendy. Silk is a unique fiber in that it keeps the wearer cool in warm temperatures and warm in cool temperatures, perfect for any time of the year. Lightweight and lustrous silk georgette fabrics make for great summer scarves that have a bit of a bounce and lots of volume. Solid colors like Dusty Lilac Silk Georgette and floral prints like Ivory Floral Silk Georgette are popular. Featherweight, semi-sheer silk georgettes like Dark blue silk georgette (which has a flamestitch print) make lighter weight scarves with great flow and drape but have less volume. Cotton and silk blends in loosely woven patterns are especially popular in long scarves with colorful, symmetrical designs like Brick Red/Gold Check Dupioni, which has an iridescent shimmer.