Diane Merrick Clothing Salon
7407 Beverly Boulevard 
Los Angeles, CA 90036-2724 
(323) 930-0400
Price Range: Moderate
shopdianemerrick.com

Diane Merrick is considered the "godmother" of boutique owners, and rightfully so after spending close to 40 years selling clothes to fashion conscious Los Angeles. With a new season upon us, I thought who better to ask what we should have in our closets this Spring and Summer. What I got is a list that has some seasonal trends, but a lot of classic items that are staples in every woman's wardrobe. Perhaps this is why the Diane Merrick store and clothing line continue to be in demand decade after decade. 

1) Ultra soft tees: No matter what the season, every woman should have soft flattering t-shirts in many shapes and sizes as long as they are flattering and comfortable. For spring and summer, try finding them in fluorescent colors such as hot pink or neon yellow and pairing them with a cute pair of denim or white shorts.  

2) Bubble Skirts: Flirty, cutesy and just plain fun. Everyone should have at least one to wear this season. Pair it with a loose, draping tank top, a few long necklaces and platform pumps or ballet flats to complete the look.  

3) Blazer: Long or short a blazer adds a polished and sophisticated look to any ensemble. Pair with jeans, a cute tee and some gorgeous shoes and you have a look that is chic day or night. 

4) Lightweight Trousers: Expect to see them in various forms all over the place this season. Not only are they comfy, but now there are many with style.  In every material from satin to lightweight polyester to pocket-less with zippers down the back, this will be the pant to have this season.  

5) Patterned Scarves:  Every girl should have at least one. Always in season, but for summer it is best to have one that is lightweight and can be worn day or night. Buy one or many, and pair them with everything from jean shorts and a tank to an evening dress. Just make sure the pattern doesn't clash.  

6) Skinny Jeans: Still in fashion, try finding a great pair in white or light denim to wear with gladiator sandals or sky-high heels and a flowy floral print top.  

7) Sequins: Expect to see the sequin trend continue. It may be a small smattering of bling on a tank or a "look at me" sequin blazer. Either way, make sure to add a little sparkle to your wardrobe this season.  

8) Leggings: They continue to be hot, and many of us are happy to hear it. Nothing is more comfortable than a cute pair of leggings with a gorgeous, loose top. Seen on every runway, spring/summer calls for statement leggings such as slouched white or satin black. You may even want to try a bright, bold pattern. Perhaps try layering with your chic summer blazer. 

Following these tips and trends are sure to make any woman look fresh and fabulous, while keeping cool when the weather gets hot.  

All items are available at Diane Merrick Clothing Salon.