Summer '09: Colors are in

Summer seems to have come a little early this year, with the gorgeous Storrs weather sweltering into the 70s and 80s this past week. As the weather gets hot, so do the fashion trends for summer '09. Here are some tips to keep up with the hottest fashion trends while keeping cool.

Texture

The overall theme in summer '09 fashion, hands-down, is texture. Fabrics, jewelry, prints and accessories, like shoes and bags, all have some sort of textural element to them that makes them more interesting to wear and, of course, to be seen in.

Color Palette

The popular colors this summer hit every end of the spectrum, from metallic gold and silver to bright colors like pink, fuchsia, coral, blue, emerald green and purple. Simple color combinations like black and white, as well as nude creams and pale roses, are also fashion statements right now. Combinations can also be applied to break up bright colors in simple ways, like pairing a black belt with white shoes.

Asymmetrical

The one-shoulder top, dress and even swimsuit are beautiful and easy ways to make a fashion statement this summer. A one-shoulder asymmetric garment can also be adorned with braids, bows, ruffles, jewels and fringe. The one-shoulder trend goes hand-in-hand with the next trend on this list.

Draping

The elegant Grecian theme, with loose flowing fabric draped usually at the waist or side waist, is especially popular in dresses, blouses and skirts. This style helps to flatter your natural curves in a modest way. Plus, it's a good excuse to wear those gladiator sandals again before that trend goes out of style, too.

Statement jewelry

Big hoop earrings, big bangles, and chunky adorned necklaces that all scream "fashion statement" are also all the rage. And the good thing is that they can be easily and cheaply bought at any thrift store. This trend will keep your wallet as weighed down as your ears in those chandelier earrings! But when it comes to overstated jewelry, less is certainly more. Only wear two pieces of statement jewelry at a time, such as earrings and bangles. These over-the-top accessories would also work well with the next fashion trend on the list.

Prints

Prints of all types are in style this summer; the most popular being tribal ethnic, watercolor brushstrokes, larger floral and larger polka dots. Butterfly prints are also regaining popularity this summer.

Sheer Clothing

The sheer clothing that's in style this summer isn't supposed to shock and awe, but create a peek-a-boo effect when layered over thin-strapped tops. Not only does this simple cover-up say a girl is modest, but intriguing and self-assured as well.

Narrower Pants

New fashion trends are also being applied to pants. While colored tights were popular for the spring, narrower ankle length pants are all the rage for summer. If you can't afford to dole out for this fashion trend, try just rolling up a pair of jeans to ankle length. You can add a bit of fun by pairing narrow pants with a fuller top.

No more fake and bake: It might not be a clothing fashion trend, but what's fashionable for your birthday suit can change as often as the other fashion of different seasons. While everyone likes a little color, self-tanners and tanning booths are a big no-no this summer. With the economy the way it is today, not only will you be making a statement about being comfortable in your own, gently sun kissed skin, you'll be saving money, too.