Dresses

I blogged once a few weeks back about how maxi dresses seem to be one of this summer's most obvious trends -- everywhere you go, you see girls in these floor-length dresses. But by now, after poring over numerous celebrity gossip and fashion websites over the summer, I have seen countless stars wearing this trend too. From Jessica Simpson to Nicole Richie, no matter your size or shape or style, it seems like every starlet in Hollywood is trying to get in on this trend! I'm not even a huge fan myself - I think maxi dresses drown shorter girls and make tall girls look even bigger - it's a lose-lose situation, I say. Not that that's stopping anyone...

Actresses America Ferrerra and Elisha Cuthbert have been spotted wearing the same Thakoon dress. Who wears it better? My money is on Cuthbert -- notice how on America, the puffy sleeves make the whole dress make her look like a little kid in her finest party dress, but on Elisha the puffy sleeves don't have the same effect.

Source: people.com

Not feeling the ever-popular minidress trend? Try a maxi dress this summer, seen on countless models and celebrities. For a really summery vibe, go for one of the many printed options on the market. From Marc Jacobs to Target and everywhere in between, no matter where you shop or what your budget you're bound to see this trend everywhere. Fans include stars such as Nicole Richie, Mischa Barton, Rachel Bilson, and the Olsen twins, among others.

What's the one must-have, can't-live-without-it item every girl needs in her wardrobe this summer? A white dress. I mean, lots of dresses are great, since summer dresses are always chic; but nothing says calm, cool, collected, and summer than a simple white dress. Nothing too fancy, definitely nothing too skimpy or revealing, and of course short enough so as not to be confused with a wedding dress; something that reminds you of the carefree, happy, sunshine-y vibe of summer. Does not work with overly spray-tanned skin, too many accessories, sitting in grass, drinking wine, or too heavy makeup. Think about it...simplicity. That's what the summer white dress says. Here's a few options for every woman:

Summer is here - well, almost - and as the temperature rises, it's time to bring those warm-weather clothes out of hiding!

Last summer, dresses were a huge hit, with almost every woman from 14 to 40 sporting a sun dress from time to time.

Summer 2007 promises to be no different - dresses are just as popular, with a few new styles thrown in there. Scanning the spring/summer 07 lines, there are dresses of every color and material and style - and I must say, I am a fan!

Slipping on a dress in summer is the easiest way to feel young, pretty, and carefree. Check out these selections - there's something for everyone, no matter the size of your wallet or your figure.

This bold and chic minidress from Alice + Olivia has a mod feel to it, and is perfect for a night out.

And some gorgeous dresses from the ever-sophisticated designer Diane Von Furstenberg (photos from Coutorture Media)