Expert tips for staying in style this summer

(ARA) - Maybe it's the bright sun and warm air. Or perhaps Mother Nature inspires us with the season's bright colors. Whatever the reason, something about summer makes us want to look our best. But sweat-inducing temperatures, active lifestyles and the inevitable stains that come from summer feasting can make it hard to stay looking good.

"Summer is a great time to freshen up your style," says Clinton Kelly, co-host of TV's "What Not to Wear" and best-selling author of "Freakin' Fabulous: How to Dress, Speak, Behave, Eat, Drink, Entertain, Decorate and Generally Be Better Than Everyone Else."

Summer brings its share of important style moments, like your favorite cousin's formal wedding or that once-in-a-lifetime summer getaway you'll finally be taking. But those opportunities also come with challenges. When temperatures soar, staying cool and feeling comfortable may replace staying in style as your top wardrobe priority.

"Don't let the lazy feel of summer, the hot temperatures or the active lifestyle convince you to set aside your sense of style," Kelly says. "The worst thing you can do is to opt out of fashion altogether. You can look great and still participate in all the fun things you associate with the season."

Kelly offers some simple advice for staying stylish this summer:

* Don't fear color. Mother Nature dons her brightest hues during warm weather and so should you. "This season, bright colors are in, especially yellow! Be on the lookout for pieces such as citrus-colored tops and accessories that will complement your existing wardrobe," Kelly advises. "Vibrant brights will add a sense of exuberance, especially when they are set against your neutrals."

* Dress appropriately. Floaty, empire-waist, spaghetti-strapped, floor-length gowns may be all the rage in your social circle, but if the style doesn't flatter your figure don't wear it. Likewise, if everyone you know is wearing short shorts this summer, but you don't feel your best in them, find a style of shorts that works for you. "Choose styles based on your body type and how you feel wearing them," Kelly says. "Not every trend will work for every person."

* Stains are the enemy of good style. Whether it's grass stains from that picnic in the park or a huge dollop of barbecue sauce on your favorite tank top, stains are real style-killers. Treat stains immediately and give your laundry detergent a boost with a stain-fighter like OxiClean Max Force Power Paks. Add one convenient pack to each load to help power out summer stains and keep whites white and colors bright. Visit www.OxiClean.com for more stain-fighting advice.

* Shop smart - even in summer. You may be tempted to go on a shopping spree, especially if you're preparing for a great summer vacation. But don't forget basic shopping smarts. Look for functional classics and choose pieces that fit and flatter your body, instead of following the trends. "I'm all about quality over quantity so get a few great pieces and take good care of them," says Kelly. Try on items before you buy. Look for clothes that fit the largest part of your body, and then have them tailored down for a perfect fit.

"Style is timeless and it should carry you from season to season, no matter what the temperature is - or what stains you might face," Kelly says.

Courtesy of ARAcontent