It’s far too easy to get overwhelmed by the myriad of floral, animal or tribal prints that seem to have taken over both fashion runways and clothing stores. The injection of color is without a doubt a completely understandable fashion trend for the summer season, however, with all the different hues mixed at once, creating versatile outfits can be a bit of a challenge.

For those who would rather pass the high drama that wild prints can easily provide and choose to experiment with a simpler style, the 3.1 Phillip Lim brand can certainly be marvelous source of inspiration. Sticking to much of the same principles the spring 2011 lookbook was based on, the brand continues to endorse minimalistic designs in a rather conservative color palette.

Sleeveless tops are a must have this season if we are to judge by the looks endorsed by the high-end brand. Short dresses are another essential item the designer has focused on in order to highlight femininity and sexiness without making an outfit stand out too much. Although the looks endorsed might seem basic and easy to pull off, sporting this look is a lot more difficult than it might appear. While these types of outfits can be pulled off by anyone with well toned arms and lean, long legs, boyish figures tend to be complimented the most.

Pairing neutrals together is by far one of the easiest techniques you can use if you are rather shy as far as color combining is concerned. Aside from being a fail-proof strategy, this simple technique will also enable you to mix and match various pieces together, increasing the versatility of your outfits. Peach, light grey, pristine white or khaki are just a few colors you can play with.

Accessories have a crucial role when it comes to adding complexity to an otherwise simple outfit. In this area, the brand continues to maintain a similarly conservative attitude as it only chooses to create contrast through color. The accessories are quite basic consisting mainly of classic handbag styles, comfortable and practical wedges and sunglasses, an indispensable accessory during the summer which not only completes an outfit, but also protects our beauty by preventing premature wrinkles around the eye area.

The classic pieces endorsed by the brand are fabulous investments as you will be able to use them long after the season passes, since they never go out of style. Although the all white trend is well highlighted through the lookbook, the elegance that intense colors can provide is far from being underestimated. Monochrome outfits in dark blue or black shades add complexity to the lookbook thanks to the rather striking contrast that is invariably created.

Photo courtesy of Phillip Lim