Fashion contributor Maggie MacKinnon gives us the lowdown on how to bring some quirkiness to our summer wardrobes.
It seems as if 2012′s breakthrough trend has been something that's been hiding in plain sight for many years: The Quirky Girl.
Largely due to Zooey Deschanel's hit show New Girl, characters like Glee's Rachel Berry and SNL's hilarious new sketch, "Bein' Quirky", 2012 has pulled the fashionably eccentric (and adorable) into the spotlight.And with the summer months closely approaching, what better topic to focus on that Summer 2012′s quirky inspired trends?
Here are 7 summer trends to help you achieve the ultimate Quirky Girl look!
1. Collared shirts
As adorable as they are functional, collared shirts have been popping up on the runways all season, as well as on the shoulders of Hollywood's most unique fashion icons. I, personally, am loving this trend because it really pulls together an otherwise casual outfits (example: collared shirt and denim cut offs. It looks awesome), as well as adding that quirky flair.
2. Floral Patterned Swim Suits (High waisted for that extra quirky kick)
Stylish and timeless, high waisted swimwear is a great choice for summer 2012. Throw in some floral prints and you've pretty much got Zooey Deschanel's dream bathing suit.
3. Floppy Hats
Perfect for sunbathing or a day at the beach, the floppy hat is a must have summer accessory. Worn by quirky girls such as Mary Kate Olsen and Cassie from Skins, this hat adds a degree of other-worldliness to your outfit, as well as shading your face from the suns harsh rays. I personally like pairing mine with my cat-eye sunglasses.
4. Youth Inspired Sunglasses
I absolutely adore these sunglasses for 2 reasons. Firstly, I think they are arguably the most adorable things I have ever scene and they encompass everything fun about summer; being silly, summer love, having fun, etc. And secondly, I had a pair just like them when I was about 5.
5. Color Blocking
Now this trend has been around for a while, so it's no surprise that it has made my Summer 2012 quirky list. While not everyone may be brave enough to try out the bold look of color blocking, it can be a useful asset if you're trying to emulate a certain style or simply just throw an unconventional outfit into your wardrobe. The bright colors are great for sunny summer days and call me crazy, but just feel like wearing all those colors just might help brighten your day. Well I certainly don't think it could hurt.
6. 50′s Inspired Sundresses
Arguably the Quirky Girl's staple piece, 50′s inspired dresses (and vintage in general) have been spotted on red carpets and runways throughout the world. There are so many different ways to dress up (or dress down) this icon style of dress, especially for the summer season. My personal preference would have to be: Backyard barbecues, deck parties and picnics. It really doesn't get anymore Quirky Girl than that. Extra points if you throw your hair up in a high ponytail!
7. Kitten heels and ballet flats
And finally, if you want to fully round out an eccentricly adorable outfit, what's better than a good old fashioned pair of ballet flats or kitten heels? I was going to throw Oxford flats into here too, but they certainly aren't limited to the summer season. Though they would still look pretty darn cute with collared shirt or vintage sundress!
So those are my thoughts some unique summer fashions, what do you guys think? Do you like or hate the new found Quirky trend sweeping the fashion world?
Let me know!
