In style: DRESSES

It's my favorite time of the year - when the sun is shining and getting dressed becomes a no-brainer.

Casual dress + Flip flops or wedges = cute and comfy for almost any occasion

I walked into Target a few days ago to get diapers and a gift card. And sadly I walked out $300 later with six summer dresses (all under $18.00), four tank tops, three bathing suits and a pullover hoodie. Shhh don't tell Dave. Before I hung the dresses in my closet, I tried them on again and began to second guess my purchases. Buyers remorse or just not the right fit? Right color? Right style? Sadly it looks like I'll be returning a few.

If you're wondering how to make summer dress shopping easier and return free, read on for the latest in dress trends for 2011...

Color: While white is a perfect color to wear in summer, you can't be afraid of color. Vibrant colors like yellows, blues, reds, corals, pinks, mint green and lavender are showing up all over department stores. Ethnic prints as well as fresh florals and cool stripes are big this season too.

Style: Free-spirited dresses in comfortable fabrics are what's expected for everyday summerwear. The summer dress famously known as the “Sundress” (an informal or casual dress in a lightweight fabric, most commonly cotton, and usually loose fitting) are something you don't want to miss. They are easy to fit and stylish making you look casual yet trendy. With added floral embroidery, floral prints, or lace on these dresses make them fun and flirty.

Another perfect summer dress would be the long Maxi dress. Although the Maxi has been around for a few seasons, it's hotter than ever. What I love is it's super versatile - one you can wear to a summer wedding or at a pool side BBQ. These dresses are usually simple in design and free-flowing which make them flattering and comfortable.

Fit: If you're CURVY, ROUND or PLUS SIZE: Opt for a V-neck. Fashion truth: V’s help elongate your body. Make sure your dress goes in at your waist—it’s the smallest part of your body. Not working? Add a belt! Showing off the curve of your legs is always hot. Dresses with v-necks will help in elongating the neck and makes it look a little bit slimmer. Never attempt to wear dresses that will cling to your body. This would lead and draw people’s attention to your large middle instead to your legs. Do not wear small strapped dresses. The thicker the straps, the better.

If you're PEAR SHAPED (ie: BIGGER ON THE BOTTOM): Bare your shoulders. It gives the illusion of width on top to balance your lower half. Cinch your waist. Wearing a dress, which, has a wrap top, or a belt will be perfect. Choose those maxi skirts that are made up of flowing fabrics in order to shift the attention from your bottom but to your waist alone.

If you're BIGGER ON TOP (ie: BUSTY): Pick a wide neckline. It’s a great way to show a bit of skin—yes, even at work—without OD’ing on the cleavage. Find a same-color belt or tie. It shows your shape but doesn’t make you look short-waisted, as a contrasting color might. Work a shortish hemline. Longer-looking legs bring focus away from your chest.

Happy Shopping!