1. Thou Shalt Have Fun with Color

Summer is the perfect time to shake off the winter blues and embrace a colorful palette. Bright colors such as tangerine, turquoise, and fuchsia are favourites for this summer. As far as fashion rules go, this one is about having fun and not being afraid to experiment with color.

2. Thou Shalt Give Prints a Chance

If you haven’t already incorporated an interesting print into your wardrobe, now’s your chance. From bright floral to bold geometric prints, adding a printed garment into your wardrobe is guaranteed to give your summer look a fresh twist.

3. Thou Shalt Keep Wearing Pastels

Sick of pastels yet? Well, I’m sorry to say that they’re still as popular as ever. Sorbet shades will once again dominate summer fashion this year. If pastel pinks don’t get you going then why not opt for cool mint shades or faded oranges?

4. Remember to Wear Neon in Moderation

Neon, neon, neon. It goes in and out of fashion every now and then, and right now it’s very much ‘in’. Like all things, however, moderation is key. Add neon to your outfit in the form of accessories such as a statement necklace, clutch bag, or bracelet cuffs. Also avoid mixing too many neon colors together.

5. Honour the Olympic Spirit

Sporty fashion rules this summer. The summer of 2012 will no doubt be dominated by the Olympics. Whether you follow sport or not, incorporate some athletic style into your look by wearing a pair of high top sneakers, a baseball jacket, or a sporty cap.

6. Thou Shalt Switch Stripes for Polka Dots

Stripes are a firm favourite for summer dressing, or year-round dressing for that matter, but this year is all about the polka dot. Larger polka dot patterns are preferred, and also keep an eye out for interesting color combinations.

7. Thou Shalt Embrace a Clean Slate

All-white outfits just scream summer dressing. It’s also one of the biggest trends this season. As far as fashion rules go, I’d be more inclined to say: avoid messy foods and be careful of spilling anything on your white clothes.

8. Thou Shalt Befriend Slouchy Pants

Ditch the skirts and choose yourself a pair of slouchy pants in a lightweight fabric to get around in this summer. Unlike tailored styles, slouchy pants can be more forgiving for the figure. Opt for a bold print if that’s your style, or choose neutrals for something more timeless.

9. Thou Shalt Go Retro

Retro, sixties aesthetics are trending right now when it comes to fashion rules. You’re your inspiration from the fashion rules of the fifties and sixties. Even the most modern of outfits can be given a retro twist. Simply add subtle accessories such as a pair of cat eye sunglasses or a framed handbag to your look.

10. Thou Shalt Remember the Basics

Trends come and go, but one of the most important fashion rules is to make sure that you have a classic capsule wardrobe to supplement each season’s trends. A crisp white blouse, fitted jeans, and ballet flats can all anchor a trend-based outfit.

These ‘fashion commandments’ are just some summer fashion rules to guide your new season wardrobe. As with most trends and fashion dos and don’ts, it’s important to experiment with what works for you. What fashion rules will you be living by this summer?

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