What's hot this hot season?

MANILA, Philippines - Looking for the hottest trends this hot, hot season? Ask celebrated fashion show director and visionary Robby Carmona. Year after year, Carmona or “Direk Robby” as he is more fondly called, brings the biggest style trends down the runway, executed with elements inspired by his various immersions in the world’s premier fashion capitals. Here, he lends his creative talents by sharing the season’s musts, and revealing style secrets that’s sure to make your hot look even hotter.

From colorful palettes to playful prints, it’s all about a refreshing and energized feminine look.

It’s all about brights!” says Carmona. Mix and match yel-low, orange, pink, and purple pieces for that energetic tongue-in-cheek look.

Carmona adds, “Florals are very chic this season.” Unleash your inner romantic and femme with wild floral prints in a mélange of muted and vibrant hues.”

Carmona continues, “Keep your clothes light and breezy.” Stock up on cotton and matte gloss dresses for day-to-night festivities. For the men, he enthuses, “It’s denim season.” From ripped to downright shredded styles, jeans are your all-around favorite so style them up this summer. Roll up the hem to ankle-length unevenly and add some patch work for that ’70s grunge. Scarves are also a great accessory for that extra oomph.

Carmona says, “Western-inspired plaid prints go a long way. It works well for both sexes. ” For the girls, boyfriend polos paired with denims give an instant look-at-me effect. Meanwhile, guys give a relaxed and stylish vibe with a checkered button-down polo.”

Guys will enjoy the fun of summer clad in comfortable day-to-night casual wear. As the hot weather allows for less constricting clothes, guys can be more expressive with their fashion. Carmona says, “Get creative!” Mix prints such as stripes and graphic tees or create a bold contrast with colors. “Dapper up your outfit with a bright-hued fedora or trilby hat. It’s the perfect accent to finish off the look,” he continues.

“Cropped shorts work,” Carmona stresses. Sport this around the metro, at the beach, or even at summer’s sizzlin’ club hotspots. Put on a tailored blazer for more formal occasions and you’re all set.

And finally, Carmona advises, “Accessorize!” Abstract and paisley scarves, colorful bangles, and hats are must-have items for an overall youthful, innovative and fun summery vibe. 

Asked about the season’s theme, Carmona rounds up, “I wanted to create a look that is comfortable and easy to put together. The look of summer is playful. Add a splash of color and prints in your outfit and definitely, your mood will be much brighter. You’ll be ready to conquer the outdoors anytime.”

Mix and match pieces from Apple and Eve, Daniel Hechter, Paperdolls, Madison, Pd & Co, Scoop Project, and Wharton and you’ll surely create that perfect summer ensemble!