Style council

Photos:

Summer is finally making its way to Detroit; time to throw open the windows, sip Sangria on the porch and, of course, empty that closet of the drab, heavy clothes of another (oh-so brutal) Michigan winter. The bright skies and warm temperatures are the perfect accessory for this summer’s hottest looks for both men and women. Metromix talked to some of Detroit’s fashion experts to get the lowdown on what you should be stocking your wardrobe with this summer.

Turn up the color
Toss out those blacks and grays and opt instead for something that pops. Aqua and orange Polos for guys; hot pink dresses and yellow handbags for girls. Color is everywhere, from top (hats, headbands) to bottom (skinny jeans, shoes). The brighter, the better.

Bring on the plaid
Plaid has made its way off the golf course and into the mainstream. Pick up some plaid shorts for a Saturday stroll through Royal Oak, or pair a plaid swing jacket with some white skinny jeans for dinner and drinks. Guys can rock it, too; a plaid button down layered over a white T-shirt and dark jeans is an easy, chic look for any occasion. 

Boys gotta rock the sneakers
If you are, or know someone who is, a sandal and sock offender, it is time for an intervention. While sandals are the obvious summer choice, any time the weather dips low enough to warrant socks a change in footwear is necessary. And the perfect alternative is a retro sneaker. These shoes are stylish, comfortable and make a much more attractive statement than ratty socks in an old sandal.

Layer, layer, layer
Most people walk into a store and pick up a shirt and a pair of jeans and it’s the end of the story, but according to Lennon at Birmingham’s, Caruso Caruso, that is just the beginning.

“Throw on a scarf, a pair of sunglasses or a lightweight cardigan.” Yes, even you, guys.

Adding a few extra elements makes an outfit more interesting. Alternative Apparel, a line specializing in lightweight basics sold at Caruso Caruso, is perfect for the summer layering look. And in Michigan where the weather is changing minute by minute, it never hurts to throw on a few extra pieces.

Denim variety
Good news, ladies. Denim of all shapes (wide, skinny, long, short) and colors (dark, light, bright) are in store for summer. Super wide leg jeans have been cropping up everywhere, but if they aren’t your thang, don’t worry.

“Whatever jean style fits you best will work this summer,” says Arianna of Rear Ends in West Bloomfield.

So find what works for you and work it with plaid, bright colors or a bunch of light layers.