Voluminous, blousy swing or trapeze tops are everywhere this season. Styles in heavier draping fabrics without overt empire seams are particularly forgiving for those of us with a little extra around the mid-section (say goodbye to that muffin top). Ensuring that these tops fit snugly across the shoulders is essential as a strong shoulder line is always flattering. Swing tops are best paired with slimmer bottoms like skinnies, straight legs, boot cuts, pencil skirts and walk shorts (because volume on volume doesn’t work). They’re a youthful, flirty and airy element to add to  your Summer wardrobe for hot, hot days.

Casual (on the left) and smarter (on the right) swing tops from Banana Republic and Nordstrom.

This season, I’ve enjoyed the ultra-affordable creations of New York graffiti artist turned fashion designer Marc Ecko. His range of men’s clothing is geared toward the city slick, young (or young at heart) urban man. I’ve been particularly impressed with the detailing of Marc Ecko’s shirt collection. Cuff and hem embroideries, centre front twill tape features, interesting patterns, funky collar linings and diagonally-striped piping make for an avant-guard and smart casual button-down shirt option. Fits are regular (not too slim) and prices are between $39 and $69. They’re not quite Hugo Boss quality, but then you’re not paying $175 for a shirt. Marc Ecko shirts have made those by  Banana Republic, Calvin Klein and Kenneth Cole look boring. I can’t wait to see what he’s got in store for our lads this Autumn.

Marc Ecko shirts are better in the flesh because the pictures don’t do the detailing justice, so be sure to have a look at his range the next time you’re in Macy’s.

Red, white and blue colour combinations are often viewed as American, yet I perceive this combination to be French (perhaps because I lived in France before coming to the United States). In fact, red, white and blue hues are also representative of the British, Dutch and Australian flags.

Sometimes the colour I associate with a country is the national colour. I’m Dutch by nationality, and although the flag is red, white and blue, orange is the Dutch national colour. The Netherlands is a monarchy that is governed by members of the House of Oranje-Nassau (where Oranje is Dutch for orange). Of course, the fact that Dutch national sports teams wear orange is probably what keeps the association alive.

Sometimes the country-colour association is a combination of these factors, or something else completely. I associate Kelly green with Ireland, antique pink with England, earth tones with Africa and red with China.

In honour of Independence Day, I‘ll be wearing a red, white and blue ensemble, feeling sporty and American instead of classic and French. Enjoy the holiday!

I was so impressed with the comfort level, price and look of these 8-hour wedge heels that I went back and bought a second pair. They are a dream! The elasticized top is extremely soft, forgiving to both wide and narrow feet, and bunion-friendly. Their two inch, imitation cork wedge heel gives you a current fashion look, and height if you need it. I’ve put them through their paces (many 8-hour shopping days with clients) without a blister in sight. Unless you need arch support, these shoes are worth a try.

They’re perfect with jeans, shorts and casual skirts/dresses. Kick the look up a notch by painting your toenails a fun colour. What’s not to love for $49.95.

Lia Bijou wedge heels are available in an assortment of colours. I’ve only seen them at Nordstrom.