Summer 2007 Fashion Trends in Phoenix, AZ

Fashion in Phoenix, AZ, is breezy, light, and casual. In the dry heat, fashion designers use their imaginations to take advantage of the climate and attitude in the Valley of the Sun.
Shoppers in Phoenix can be found at the upscale Biltmore Fashion Park, Desert Sky Mall, or Paradise Valley Mall. No matter where the shopping can be found, students in fashion degree programs are watching the trends for summer '07.

Swimsuits and Fashion Merchandising

In a city where a swimming pool is the best refuge for a hot day, swimsuits are an essential piece of fashion marketing plans. What are the hottest picks for Phoenix swimwear? Take a look:

• One-piece bandeaus: Look for these cute suits that flatter hourglass shapes. Keyhole cut-outs in the top kick this suit up a notch.
• String them along: Top fashion designers are incorporating skimpy strings into their styles this season.
• Prints ahoy: Fashion merchandising experts are looking for polka dots, Hawaiian flowers, and other adorable patterns to fly off store shelves all summer.

Fashion Design and Summer Style
Here are a few more fashion merchandising "sure things" for Phoenix this summer:

• Nautical accessories: The landlocked city dreams of the sea and shows its love with ocean-themed accessories.
• Short shorts: Dressed up with heels or casual with flats, this is a must-have.
• Updated aviator sunglasses: With slimmer lines and flashy accents, UV protection has never been so hot.
• Wedge sandals: Look for this hot style in lightweight cork with tropical patterns.

One of the most important lessons taught at fashion school is designing for the client's need. In Phoenix, that need has everything to do with the climate. From choice of material to the way the style is cut, Phoenix fashion has to work in the heat.

Amelia Gray is a teacher and freelance writer in San Marcos, TX. Amelia earned a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature from Arizona State University.