Mercury may have been in retrograde for the past month, but that other mercury has been moving full-steam ahead. As thermometers climb towards the triple digits, and summer heats up to its sultry potential, there are plenty of stylish upsides to summer. It’s the season of the patio-side sangria, after all, with a side of ceviche, sandals, and shades, all highlights of any sun-drenched social fête. Chances are, the invites have been steadily stacking up, whether for weddings, garden parties, or everyone’s favorite red, white, and blue bash: The Fourth of July.  

  Revelry aside, such occasions can leave even the most sartorially savvy among us staring blankly at the closet, endeavoring to piece together just the right balance of bold, breezy, and appropriate attire. Wonder no more, as some of Dallas’ top trendsetters are sharing their stylish tips for making a chic splash this summer. Stilettos need not apply.       Toni Munoz-Hunt Founder, Model Behaviors Contributor, DFW Style Daily               “I just can’t get enough of patio dresses, not to be confused with maxi dresses! A patio dress is something extra-special, with embellishments and long, flowing style. They’re great for sprawling out on the lawn if it’s a garden party, and they make the best cover-up for some pool action. Check out Diane von Furstenberg for the best selection right now.”       Patrick B. Ware CEO, WAREhaus-Dallas                 “Color color color! The hot color for summer is yellow! I love this color because it’s a rare shade to see on men. Wear it with practically anything - grey, navy, white, denim, khaki - for an extra pop for your wardrobe.”         Eric Renteria Designer & Owner, Beaus+Ribbons                 “I am calling this the summer of the pin-up girl! Invest in a vintage one-piece swimsuit for a new poolside style twist. Floral prints are hot this season, too, and high-waist shorts and two-toned tops are necessities. For men, I am seeing madras shirts, khaki shorts, and classic Jack Purcell shoes - all very JFK! Also important is eyewear. Classic Ray-Ban Wayfarers and cat-eye shades for ladies are still going strong. As with any style, always remember to accessorize with a big smile!”       Kristin Smith CEO & Personal Stylist, The Clad Life                 “It's no secret that the cropped top is a huge trend right now, and I love that they have also been carried over into swimwear. The cropped bikini is definitely having a moment, with a number of variations, including the halter, long-sleeve, and off-the-shoulder. It’s a versatile choice, transitioning into a top when paired with a cotton skirt or maxi skirt as a cover-up. “Wear this look with thong sandals; I’m appreciating the new spin on them with fun patterns, embellishments, and higher ankle-strap styles. They're more polished than thong flip-flops, and less trendy than the gladiator. The perfect compromise!”       Holly Dear and Kaycee Clark Co-owners & Co-founders, Dear Clark Salon                 “Keep your hair hip and stylish with fun beach-y waves and braids. A more ‘lived-in’ texture is really hot right now, and no matter what length of hair you have, you can create nice movement with a large curling iron. As for braids, whether it's a classic French braid, fishtail, or four-strand, they’re on-trend for your party. And messy is o.k. when it comes to braids - it gives them a more editorial look.”         Shirin Askari Designer & Owner, Shirin Askari Designs                 “For an outdoor party, I've always gone for a dress over shorts. It feels cooler in the hot summer days, and it can double as a pretty bathing suit cover-up. Maxi dresses are usually my go-to. They can be ultra-comfy, and dressed up or down, but they always remain chic. Sheer flowing fabrics are a big trend now, too, which is great because they help keep you cool. “Also, I've always loved navy for summer. It’s a wonderful neutral if you don't want to wear bold color, and it looks good on nearly everyone. Lastly, one thing to definitely remember is that you must wear wedges over heels - if you’re skipping the flats, that is. Heels and grassy outdoor areas don't mix!”       Bri Crum President, Plan B PR Creator & Host, Inside Entertainment TV               “I think the only way to dress in this Texas heat is by wearing anything loose and flowing. I live in my long maxi dresses, but I also love a fun pair of wide-leg printed pants or a short breezy dress. They are all great over a bathing suit. “For summer hair, my new favorite accessory is the Krown, made with much love by California designer Kaylen Morrison. It adds that perfect ‘I look like I know how to style my hair’ look! Throw your hair up in messy bun or ponytail, and place a Krown on your head. It’s all about the casual-chic vibe. Most importantly, just be yourself and you will always be in fashion. Happy summer from this California-Texas hybrid!”         Edo F.F. Popken Designer & Owner, Edo Popken of Switzerland                 “Greetings from Switzerland! The ideal look for men to wear to summer events is a pair of constructed shorts with a fitted silhouette. For tops, go for a short-sleeve fitted polo in solid or color-block design. If your tan allows, wear bright colors. With a sportier, dress-shirt style, choose a multicolor pattern like paisley or plaid; roll up the sleeves twice and leave only two buttons unbuttoned at the neck. For an even more cosmopolitan look, wear the shirt tucked in with a cool belt. And no boxy cut Bahamas-style shirts, please. “For shoes, I suggest some nice leather loafers - no socks - or leather sneakers. Complement your look with the right pair of shades. Try green or yellow tinted glass; they makes everything you look at look even better. Life is short - dress up for it!”       John Piermarini Owner, Piermarini Boutique and Piermarini Beauty                 “You cannot go wrong with crop tops, sheer paneling, and lightweight linen layering pieces. They not only add dimension, but also take you from the daytime pool scene to the after-dark party. Osklen, out of Brazil, is a cool-chic, go-to label. For guys, it’s all about the perfect tee, preferably in light blue. “As for skincare, everyone can benefit from additional hydration and moisturizing in hot weather. Brightening day protection with SPF and Vitamin C is key. I also love a natural makeup look for summer, with just a mineral sheer tint and a rose-gold shimmer lip. You always want the best version of yourself to shine through!”   All product images via individual designers and retailers.