Flip-flops are comfy but pretty plain and way too casual for most workplace environments. Ballet flats are functional, but sometimes you want your feet to breathe in the summer heat. Embellished sandals give you the best of both worlds: comfort and tons of style, all while being able to show off that fresh pedicure. Whether you like crystals, beads or studs, there's something for every sartorial palate. Check out our picks for this summer's best embellished sandals.

*Summer isn't summer without bright hues or florals. This pair of sandals has both.

Kenneth Cole Reaction ($59, piperlime.com)

Stripes, polka dots and tribal, oh my. Prints are a big trend right now but can also be a bit tricky. They're a great deviation from the safe, monochromatic look, but, if not done properly, your outfit can easily go from hot to not. Whether you want to try a splashy abstract print or mix patterns, the key is to keep it nice and simple. Below are tips for a few prints you may want to try but might not be sure how to wear.

Stripes Stripes add a great nautical feel to your spring or summer wardrobe but depending on how they're worn, can you ultra unflattering. Most people think horizontal stripes are to generally be avoided, but Kelly Rowland pulls off the look in style. The thin stripes keep her body from looking wide. Also, vertical stripes on a jacket can actually give the illusion of an elongated figure.

Liya Kebede could rest on her beautiful laurels, but she chooses to make a difference. She's graced countless Vogue covers, was the first model of color to sign a deal with Estee Lauder and has been ranked by Forbes as one of the highest paid models. But what Kebede really focuses on is her charitable work.

When she learned weave makers in her native Ethiopia were being put out of work due to lack of demand, the statuesque beauty mixed her love of fashion and philanthropy to create a clothing line. Lemlem, which means to flourish or bloom in Amharic, employs local artists to create modern pieces with a traditional feel. "I launched Lemlem to preserve this art form and support sustainable business in Ethiopia," Kebede told Black Voices.

The three-year-old line originally just included children's clothing but the Spring/Summer collection now features womenswear, including tunics, dresses and handbags. The expansion of Lemlem doesn't just mean more options for fashionistas, but success for Kebede's home country.

"As the brand grows, we employ more and more people in Ethiopia which is at the core of what Lemlem is about," she said. "We hope that our weavers will be able to build better lives for themselves and their children."

The rising mercury means stowing away those coats and heavy fabrics. Bright hues and bold patterns scream you're ready to play in the sun. Of course, you already have a stack of tanks and well-worn jeans, but here's a wardrobe checklist to keep you looking cool as the temps heat up.

Who wears short shorts? Well, apparently Beyoncé does.



Queen B has been spotted in the streets sporting what's sure to be one of the hottest trends for spring and summer. She typically pairs her cutoffs with sky-high heels, but the look might be a bit too provocative for the everyday gal. You've been lunging away in the gym all winter and now your legs are ready to be revealed, but exactly how do you pull off this look? The key to this trend is to keep the rest of your outfit simple and clean. Below are five ways to wear short shorts while keeping it cute and classy.