Style & Shopping

Cold Shoulder

Stay ahead of the fashion curve with this must-have trend for summer.

The off-the-shoulder neckline has been a popular women’s style for decades—think Brigitte Bardot and Bianca Jagger. And with spring/summer catwalks chock-full of off-the-shoulder looks and current fashion icons like Alexa Chung and Olivia Palermo donning this style, we think it’s a seasonal must-have for your closet.

“I am a big fan of the off-the-shoulder trend. It is effortlessly sexy, showing just the appropriate amount of skin,” says Christie Griffiths, owner of Brightside Boutique. “An off-the-shoulder dress is probably the easiest route to go, giving you instant style without putting in too much effort.”

Off-the-shoulder tops can be paired with almost anything from high-waisted pants to miniskirts. “Since this look is so wearable [with many different ways to outfit it], it works on many different body types,” says Cydney Vigliotti, owner of Punch Boutique in Federal Hill. “I personally love the trend paired with jean shorts or skinny jeans and pumps.”

It also leaves lots of room for accessorizing. Use the open neckline to add a statement necklace or a larger pair of earrings. Agrees Vigliotti, “Complete the look with an awesome cross-body bag for the perfect summer look.”