A Cool Shade of Blue: Lapis

Now that things are really starting to heat up, even folks who aren’t really into fashion are all starting to look for ways to stay cool when the temperature rises. This season is still all about bright colors and prints, but a bit of variety is always nice, so it’s cool when one color or print takes a turn in the fashion spotlight. It may or may not be a scientific fact, but certain colors tend to make you feel or at least look cool, and a pretty shade of blue is one of those colors.

For warm weather 2012, consider adding a bit of blue cool to your wardrobe with lapis. Lapis is a nice change from all of the electric and neon shades of blue we are seeing right now, and it’s a step up from the pastel shades of blue, too. Lapis refers to the shade of a semiprecious stone that is believed to have certain properties for the mind and body. Even if you’re not a believer in that sort of stuff and simply think it’s pretty, it can’t hurt. Lapis is also a nice choice for bridal parties instead of the usual shades of traditional blue. Since lapis comes from a natural gemstone, its actual color can vary a bit.

 You can read more about the gem here.

Try lapis as an alternative to basic navy and denim. Now, you don’t want to leave them completely out of your summer wardrobe, so also try pairing them with this color. Several popular jean labels have added this shade to their washes, so you don’t have to give up your jeans in the name of a hot new trend.

Swimwear is another way to work this summer trend with a one-piece or sexy bikini. The most economical and easiest way to add a bit of blue to your summer is with lapis jewelry. Because of the belief that this stone has healing properties, this stone will always be present for jewelry and won’t go out of style, so you will find lapis incorporated into many of this season’s hot new jewelry trends. Feel free to splurge on something special, unique, or sentimental, but also check out trendy oversized cocktail rings, chunky bracelets and bangles, and statement necklaces and chokers.