In much the same way that we know florals are in every spring, we also know that stripes will be in come summertime. Perhaps that’s partly due to the never-dying trend of nautical that makes stripes stick around season after season, but this summer we’re opting for fresher takes on stripes courtesy of Prada’s Spring Summer 2011 collection that packs a punch with pops of colour.

Is it just us or does this dress remind you of that one in Prada’s SS11 collection only at the much more affordable price tag of £35? We love the mix of pink and orange and think this would look fabulous with a tan (you know, the one you’ll get on your holiday!) What an easy way to work the trend, we’ll be buying ours from our nearest Dorothy Perkins!

From maxis to minis now with this cute little skirt from Zara. If you’re proud of your pins, then show them off in this number at £22.99. Then not-so-perfectly-straight lines mean it’s a more of an abstract take on stripes and is a new and fresh way of wearing the trend.

Finally, our last pick of summer stripes comes from ASOS at £35. We can’t resist the super on-trend mix of pink and orange stripes so if you may not be so sure of the maxi but love the look, here’s the top option. A slightly baggy, oversized look, it’s one that we’re certain will be flattering for a relaxed chic look.

Fashion is getting a bit frisky this season with two trends in particular – nude and underwear as outerwear. Whilst most people may be a little shy to work the latter, everyone can wear nude because it’s not actually like we’re revealing anything, is it?

This beautiful Silk Blouse jacket is from Dorothy Perkins’ DP Collection and is a fantastic nude piece for summer. Being lightweight it should keep you cool enough in the heat whilst looking uber stylish, too. As it’s a blouse jacket, it will give you a hint of the trend without overdoing it, and is something that you can keep in your wardrobe for more summers to come. A snip at £45!

Try two trends in one with these Peg Leg jeans from Topshop (£45). Whilst we’re featuring nudes in this blog post, rolled up trousers is another trend for this summer and these peg leg jeans are quite a smart take on them. Team with either a fierce pair of heels or a great pair of gladiator sandals to show off your ankles!

If nude clothes are just a bit too much for you, how about a pair of nude shoes? These Christian Louboutin Simple 70 leather pumps are a the top end of the spectrum coming in at £375, but they are a classic! Nude heels not only make your legs look longer but they also go with pretty much any outfit! If that’s not an investment piece, then I don’t know what is!

Accessories are the easiest way to update your wardrobe. As long you have your essentials, basics and classics behind you, you only have to use some key accessories to showcase the latest trends or looks. Belts are a great way of cinching in your waist and drawing attention to one or create one, so here are three to do just that!

The Hettie belt from LK Bennett is a classic belt with a geometric look to it. Black and gold is a classic colour combo and will work in any outfit, adding a touch of elegance. Hettie would be a great option for work or formal functions. Buy from LK Bennett for £95.

£95 may seem rather steep to some for a belt, but there are many cheaper options. This belt from Dorothy Perkins is also black and gold, which I think in most cases, makes just about anything look that bit more expensive! At £8, this is truly bargainous but at that price rest assured that it doesn’t skimp on the chicness! No, in fact this little number is definitely channelling Chanel albeit at a much more affordable price point. This is a statement belt without being too flashy – it’s skinny so whilst there are studs it is not too busy. The tassle makes the belt have a hint of 80s to it, and I think this would be great with a sold-colour jersey maxi dress for summer.

If you were impressed with a belt for £8, we’ve saved the best for last! This lilac belt is from ASOS and a mere snip at…. £6! Lilac is set to be a huge hit for summer along with other sorbet and pastel shades and a £6 belt is an easy way to work this trend into your wardrobe. The gold coloured metal against the pretty lilac makes it all feel very luxurious and would look fantastic against a nude blazer for this season.