So I’ve been doing a lot of shopping lately.  In exactly two weeks I will be taking a one week vacation to Florida. Every time I take a “vaca” somewhere, I am always on the prowl for new outfits and accessories to bring on the trip (especially as it is getting closer and closer to departure day). Hollywood pretty much made movies like “Clueless” and “Confessions of a Shopaholic” because of girls like me. Anyways, I’ve been going to different stores and malls from all parts of LA Country- Hollywood, Pasadena, Glendale, Melrose, even the fashion districts in Downtown L.A. ($5 shades, cute $15 sandals, sexy $25 heels, trendy clothes and bargain prices = my idea of heaven). While on the hunt for looking for potential new outfits for my trip, I saw several notable trends that have either come back or emerged as new “must-have’s” for the summer. Here they are:

The Long Dress aka Maxi-Dress

I’ve seen this at almost every store- from good ole Target to hip Forever 21 to more upscale boutiques like Veronica M. It’s funny because this trend has carried on from last summer of 2008. Long dresses are perfect for warm weather, not to mention they are comfortable and flattering for any body type!

Gladiator Sandals

Another item that was hot last summer and is still in style this summer! What I love about gladiator sandals is that they match with almost everything- a pair of skinny jeans, a cute summer dress, or even shorts or a skirt. LOVE the versatility!

High-Waisted/Tulip Skirt

Anything from corduroy to floral print would be hot for this summer. The high-waisted skirt is like last year’s pencil skirt.

Jumpsuit

Even celebrities like Blake Lively have been spotted wearing this hot new item.

Blazer

Ok so leather jackets definitely made its statement last fall/winter, but blazers are coming back as well!

Mini-Dress

A piece that never goes out of style for any summer!

Statement Headband

Ladies, you know you see these in almost every fashion store! They make a boring outfit funkier. Urban Outfitters & Forever 21 has tons of cute headbands (some decorating with flowers, feathers. etc)