Last week, I caught up with a blogger turned friend for lunch to find out more about the summer trends for clothing. Courtney is a Pittsburgh-native who moved to Raleigh, N.C. two years ago during a quarter-life crisis. Her cat, Cleo, holds the key to her heart – despite the fact that Cleo would rather sleep than cuddle. Courtney says that she can’t live without Chapstick or “Sex and the City.” She is also a firm believer that everything happens for a reason in life.

When did you start blogging?

I started blogging in January 2014, so it has been about 2.5 years. I moved here from Pittsburgh and transitioned from working in fashion merchandising to marketing. It was a great way to stay connected to the world of fashion, which I love. Not to mention blogging helps to fuel my creativity.

How do you stay up to date on the latest trends?

I am an avid magazine reader, and I probably have six to eight subscriptions. Harpers Bazzar is my favorite. I get butterflies in my stomach when it arrives in the mail. I love investigating high fashion and seeing how it trickles down into clothing that everyday people can wear. I find myself constantly looking at online e-retailers and boutiques.

What are the hottest fashion summer trends for 2016?

I absolutely love embroidered pieces for summer. I was exploring online to see how they are incorporating it into dresses and jackets and learned the whole Mediterranean feel is trendy this summer. By Mediterranean I mean white and light colors– clean and crisp flowy pieces are always in style. This summer shop for clothes as if you’re headed to the French Rivera. Sometimes denim pieces are even a classic look for summer even though it is a heavier fabric.

Pineapples have been a big deal this spring, what other fruits should we think about for the summer?

I think the pineapple is just fun and feminine, and people are gravitating towards it. Our generation is excited about imagery. I think the pineapple has been the biggest deal, but I have a watermelon clutch. I think it is reminiscent of summer and aesthetically pleasing to wear. The cactus is new this year.

I saw on your blog that the ‘90s are making a comeback, what pieces should every woman have in her closet for this trend?

I think the flannel tied around your waist look is amazing – this is a look that I remember from my childhood. I love when people can wear things differently and use them as accessories. Even if you aren’t going to wear it for a functional purpose, it is a cool trend to layer in a styled way. Also making a comeback: fanny packs and jean skirts.

How do you feel about the mixed-print trend? What are the best prints to mix together?

Stripes are always pretty easy to start with when mixing prints. Stripes and florals or stripes and polka dots are a good mix for me. I love stripes! I could wear them every single day.

How would you advise women to feel comfortable mixing prints?

First I would say make sure that you absolutely love what you are wearing. People can tell when women are uncomfortable with what they are wearing, so make sure that it is something you feel confident wearing. The most important thing to consider when you are mixing prints is to keep the colors consistent so that they complement each other.

What store never fails you?

Honestly, nothing makes me happier than the Macy’s shoe department.

What are three words to describe your style?

Creative, feminine and edgy.

Want to learn more about the pineapple trend this summer? Read our post about pineapples here.