We’ve now reached the time of year that gets me so ecstatic to be a shopaholic — summer is just around the corner! This means that new, bright wardrobe options are practically endless! I get way too excited talking about it, as I’m sure some of you fellow fashionistas can relate; I am thrilled to get into specifics when it comes to the upcoming trends in

the fashion biz.

My first topic is paint, and lots of it. I’m sure that threw you off a little, but let me clue you in: whether you do it yourself or buy your clothes with a few artfully-placed abstract strokes, you will certainly be making a splash. In doing this, you are also just adding some variety and color to your outfit, which is exactly what people need, in the summer, especially.

Now I know what you are probably thinking when I talk about paint-splattered clothes, that this is some fad for those homeless-chic, hipster-esque girls who want to be different and try to not try, which I certainly don’t disagree with in some cases. Slapping on a white T and some paint-stained boyfriend jeans can look both effortless and cool; but my point is that you aren’t limited to this. There are dresses, skirts, and even handbags that are painted in a way that qualifies as both edgy and classy and are sold by various designers. Paint is one of my personal favorites when it comes to the trends this year and I’m excited to see what people do with it.

When I think of summer style I immediately think flowy, bright and cheery, which is exactly what all of my favorite chic summer outfits include. A girl can do wonders going out on the town in the right sleeveless jumpsuit, romper, or even palazzo pants that have been popping up in stores everywhere. I don’t mean to toot my own horn, but I’ve been rocking palazzo pants for quite sometime, so it’s nice to see that everyone is finally catching up.

These pants look good on all body types so it is no surprise how popular they have become, as well as the jumpsuits and rompers that come in a similar style. All of these items are in endless funky and floral prints — or you can buy simple, solid colors and accessorize — either way, they can easily be dressed up or down. I hate to say it, but once I started to buy palazzo pants, to me at least, I couldn’t get enough. I hostess in the summer, and for all you girls who have to dress for success with your summer jobs, these are cute, functional, affordable and comfortable. What more can you ask for?

Finally, would it even be a summer fashion column if I didn’t write about beachwear? Yes, I have discussed it before, but there are a few more style tips I forgot to mention. The first of which is the hot new halter-top bikini trend, with intricate cut outs to snakeskin patterns, this style has been popping up in magazines everywhere! I have to say, I was a little surprised about how popular it has become, because the next thing I thought of after, “Oh, that’s so cute” was “thst thing could give a girl some funky tan lines.” Either people don’t care or maybe these sorts of tan lines will become the new norm; regardless, halter-top suits are still hotter than ever.