9 Essentials, 10 Looks for Summer 2004

Summer is the most colorful season of the year. The days become longer, and mini-breaks on one’s calendars are suddenly marked in red ink (READ: On Leave – No Calls, No Meetings, No Deadlines, Nothing). Plane and hotel reservations to hot holiday destinations are made left and right. And in as much as one would like to bring every available article of clothing with her ("Just in case"), that duffel bag can only accommodate so much.

So, what’s in the bag for Summer 2004? The word on the runway headlines scream "COLOR!" Bright yellows, acid greens, luminous blues and sweet pinks are perfect hues for those long days basking under the sun or breezy nights strolling by the beach. Black is definitely taking a break from the runway’s center stage as pastels make it to this season’s fashion prescription pad. Now is the time to push those dark pieces to the back of your closet (or into the dark corners of your attic if you please) and make room for bright hues. And as the temperature begins to rise, minis in all forms are the fitting pieces to a perfect tan. Think Lilliputian, think skin – very mini skirts, shorts, baby tees, bandeaus and wraps. Take on a more playful look with intricately detailed prints. Tropical-inspired patterns are guaranteed showstoppers this summer. Wear these prints as a top, wrap, neckpiece or head wrap to add attitude to an outfit. And since the Summer Olympic Games in Athens is one of the most awaited events of the year, sporty pieces in light fabrics remain key trends. If you’re not exactly what most would call the athletic type, you can at least look the part in a surf-chic inspired tank or track jacket. Here are nine essential pieces that are sure to make you look absolutely stunning from sun-up to sundown. Put them together in a variety of ways to achieve the hottest looks of Summer 2004.

Think Tanks

Go for that surf-chic look with the white tank. Choose a fabric that is light and very easy to move around in. Remember, you’d want to go for something that is not only fabulous but also functional. The Narciso Rodriguez 2004 Spring-Summer collection utilized the timeless white tank with color-blocked pieces, resulting to that lady jock effect. Of course, this does not necessarily mean you’ll have to play the part. The white tank should do for now.

Pretty & Preppy Pullover

Preppy is Kenneth Cole’s mantra for Summer 2004. V-neck pullover light knits were layered over white shorts and crisp collared shirts. Colors were neutral and muted – shades of gray, taupe, khaki, white – with an occasional splash of canary yellow or cobalt blue.

Babe In A Bikini

The statement – pretty in pink (or any pastel color for that matter). Emporio Armani takes a break from the usual structured, minimalist approach with a flirty bikini top and ultra-sexy hipster bottom in dynamic designs. Choose a neo retro print or a more feminine floral pattern as you bathe under the sun.

Back On Track

Sporty track jackets are Prada’s favorite piece, matched with a bikini top and shorts. Track jackets create a vintage effect which is exactly what the Prada collection is all about for the season – nostalgia. SWINGIN’ SKIRT

The white pleated skirt, inspired by the country club scene, is making waves in this season’s fashion forecast. Jill Sander’s little pleated skirts are structured in cut. However, it still creates a dainty effect when worn with a bikini top or a sexy laid back pullover.

The Bag Bug

Inspired by the Adriatic Coast, Bottega Veneta’s collection is a mix of hand painted, printed and woven pieces. Raw fabrics come in lush shades of sand as seen in his suede purse. It is designed to create the easy feel of a straw bag perfect for the hot holidays.

Over The Top Flip Flops

Dolce and Gabanna goes experimental with footwear. Wild patterns and bold colors make it to the soles and heels. A little psychedelic in approach, Dolce and Gabanna’s stuff for the season played with bold patterns and a wide selection of fun shades. Always cheerful and playful in design, Dolce and Gabanna is one for those who enjoy staying under the sun

Sweet Shorts

DKNY takes a more subdued and practical approach with khaki shorts in lengths that suit all body types – super short, mid-thigh and right below the knee. Matched with a bright accent piece, khaki shorts are the easy, versatile and sexy choice for the season.

Sassy Sarong

This season, the pattern for loosely draped fabrics is executed in intensely hued silks and flowing chiffons. Balenciaga plays up the color palette with emerald greens, lush yellows, bold oranges and touches of gold. Inspired by the tropics, these patterns are reminiscent of the old-fashioned hippie days without the clichés of vintage design.