Summer 2009

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    Hot In The Hive: SurfMonk's Perfect Beach Blanket!

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    Ida Hsiang on Aug 3, 2009 6:20 AM PDT
    Summer has been speeding by, but it's not quite time to pack up the BBQ grills and sundresses just yet! You've found the perfect swimsuit, learned how to do minimal make-up to avoid melting in the sun, found products to use for "beachy" hair, and don't have to worry about getting sun-burned because, by now, you are a bronzed goddess. So I'm going to throw one more tip on summer fun at the beach or poolside your way! Lather up the SPF, adjust that bikini, order yourself a refreshing drink and relax and lay back on ... the sand?! The hot, plastic lounge-chair that's been sitting in the sun all day? No thanks. But no worries, because we may have just found the perfect beach blanket for you! SurfMonk is a company that specializes in all things surf and swim. They happen to have an awesome beach blanket, and here's why. First, it's huge. It's long enough to cover the entire lounge chair so none of your body has to get burned on the hot vinyl, and it can fit two people comfortably laying down! Second, it feels amazing! SurfMonk uses a special blend of bamboo (the new "it" fabric) and cotton to make their terry cloth, leaving the blanket super-soft and plush to the touch-- plus, they include built in straps to help tie your blanket to a chair or post in case of wind. Then, as if that wasn't reason enough to by this ultra-comfy, eco-friendly beach blanket, the thing even has pockets! Now you can store your keys, cell-phone or wallet right inside your beach blanket and not have to worry about it being stolen or buried under the sand.


    Price: $99.00
    Who Found It: idabone was first to add the SurfMonk: Beach Blanket to the Hive.
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    Cruise Through Summer In A Chic Caftan!

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    Ida Hsiang on Jul 31, 2009 2:21 PM PDT
    I think it's safe to say that seventies glam is back in full-force this summer! With jumpsuits gracing the pages of pretty much every magazine and big hair and bold minis making a comeback, one could easily feel like they just stepped out of a modernized version of that decade. The next big throwback trend that designers are putting out? Caftans! These are not to be confused with those oversized floral print muumuus that hide and distort the body and should really just be left as a bed sheet or burned! Caftans are luxurious, flowing, and oh-so-comfortable. They are reminiscent of Greek draping and remind on-lookers of rich nonchalance and effortless elegance. They're popping up in bright colors and prints and, although usually on the sheer side, designers and retailers have been coming out with caftans that can be worn at the beach or pool party, or as a unique and beautiful dress for all those summer events! The right caftan can be a very versatile piece that can be worn over and over in numerous ways. Try one with cork wedges, a belt, and some layered jewelry for a tasteful look, or throw it over your bikini and pop on a pair of sandals for the perfect carefree chic summer outfit! Check out the slideshow for more great caftan finds and add one to your closet today!
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    Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week SWIM Runway: Red Carter

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    Ida Hsiang on Jul 23, 2009 2:19 PM PDT
    A swimsuit is a swimsuit is a swimsuit, right? Not if it's a Red Carter design! They challenge your idea of a conventional one-piece or bikini and have you lusting after the interesting and daring details of their suits. Red Carter isn't tentative or apologetic about their extreme and avant-garde outlook. There are, of course, colorful and lively patterns that stimulate the eye, but it is the space-age metallic leggings or edgy hardware that garner the most attention. It's the optical illusion patterns and the oversized, brightly colored, Lolita-like details that make you sit up a little straighter and stare a little longer. The strapless tops and wild animal prints earned more than a few double-takes... and possibly neck injuries! Beach coverings were elegant and luxurious. Men in speedos and barely-there briefs have never been my thing, but if all men looked like the male models did in Red Carter's bold and edgy "trunks," then I may just have to rethink my stance! For more crazy, but completely wearable and desirable swim looks, check out our slideshow! Photo credit: Getty Images
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    Jessica Alba Is Trendy in MK2K Plaid

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    Ida Hsiang on Jul 17, 2009 5:22 AM PDT
    Jessica Alba was spotted leaving the ever-trendy Nobu, fittingly in a very "in" plaid blouse by MK2K. She paired her top with a black cardigan, black pants and simple jewelry, making this low-key outfit chic and comfortable. Jessica would look good in anything but this shirt works to highlight her super-slim figure. It is also an outfit that would look good on a variety of people, whether or not they have the body Jessica does. With a smocked front, this inexpensive blouse ($143!) is great for concealing a larger mid-section (not that Jessica has one by the looks of her bikini pics). Paired with skinner jeans, shorts or a skirt, this shirt can be dressed up or down depending on how you want to wear it. MK2K is a brand beloved by many stars and regular shoppers alike. Their line consists of adorable tops, fun and flirty dresses and versatile blouses. Plaid has been a trend we have been seeing for a while and it looks to have no signs of going out anytime soon. Getting Jessica's exact look is very easy. Simply pair this top with a pair of skinny black jeans or pants. Accessorize with thin gold hoops, a gold necklace, red nails and a Chanel-like bag! See more great fashion by clicking over to our friends at Whatswear!
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    Casual But Chic Camp Shirts Are A Summer Staple

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    Ida Hsiang on Jul 16, 2009 4:19 PM PDT
    This summer, camp shirts are popping up all over the place, from the traditional structured styles to sheer, more billowy ones. They have a collar and most are button-down, so tuck them into a great pair of wide-leg linen pants and throw on a pair of pumps to be office ready! Change into a flirty skirt and wedge sandals, or some skinny jeans and peep-toe stilettos and you'll look chic and fresh for any after-hours plans you may have. Very comfortable, completely versatile and sweetly sexy in that borrowed-from-the-boys kind of way, camp shirts are the perfect summer staple. They can even double as swim cover-ups! Check out the slideshow for some of my favorites from designers like Modern Amusement, Rag & Bone, American Eagle, and more!
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    Ole! A Touch Of Spain In Your Summer Style!

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    Ida Hsiang on Jul 16, 2009 8:23 AM PDT
    Flowy white dresses and light linen layers are still feminine and flirty summer staples, but this season, designers are really stepping it up! The theme for this summer is bold and bright! Pop colors, ruffles and the hourglass shape are taking over the neutral shades and simple silhouettes of summers past. All these stimulating colors and fun details are reminiscent of traditional Spanish clothing twisted with modern edge, giving this style trend an air of classic sophistication while making a sexy and chic statement all at once! Cropped and embellished boleros are perfect summer outerwear, covering just enough for cooler summer nights and really standing out as the key piece to an ensemble. Or really vamp up the sexy, feminine side and sashay your way into sunshine with a tiered and ruffled dress like a modern day Flamenco dancer! Girly details just not your thing? No worries! Leggings with high-waists and other Spanish-inspired details are definitely in, as are decorated button-downs and embroidery and embellishments on everything! Check out the slide-show for more eye-catching, colorful items inspired by the beauty and culture of Spain!
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