Summer fashion is about staying cool and comfortable — without sacrificing style. Great summer basics will take you everywhere this summer, from picnics and barbecues to art festivals, outdoor markets and concerts. Blend the practical with the fashionable for sizzling summertime style.

For her

To the maxi • As the temperature rises, skirt lengths fall. "This summer's must-have is the maxi dress," said Alexis Bowels, sales associate at JMR at The Gateway. "You can do anything with a maxi — it is so versatile, and works for every age and every size." This floor-skimming dress or skirt can be styled sporty and casual or sophisticated and romantic. Maxi skirts make sitting on the grass at concerts or picnics more carefree.

Sundress and rompers • Feminine and girly, the sundress remains a summertime staple, and this season's crop emphasize flowy and breezy styles. "Summer is easy-going, so anything goes," such as bright colors and more edgy styles, said Amanda Peterson from Lolabella, the company's sister boutique, also at The Gateway. "It's fun to kind of go crazy and try something you wouldn't normally wear." All-in-one pieces, such as rompers or jumpsuits, can be a playful alternative to a sundress or swimsuit cover-up — plus these styles are great for bike riding or other active events.

Trend details • Uncomplicated clothes that are easy to wear in solid shades take center stage, whether in bold colors, neutrals, or a crisp white. Dress down an outfit with flat sandals or flip-flops, or dress it up with high-heel wedges (you'll want to avoid spiked heels that will sink into the grass). Individualize your style with unique jewelry pieces that offer a pop of color and a finishing touch, such as turquoise and beaded stone necklaces, peacock feather earrings or a stack of wooden bangles. Sunglasses and a floppy 1970s style hat will keep the sun off and the style on.

For him

Fitted shorts and pants • Fitted shorts and straight-leg jeans or trousers — but not too tight — are stylish seasonal choices, according to Alix Lewis, a sales associate at Gateway's Bastille. "A good fitting non-cargo short, something that is right above the knee, is easy to dress up or down," Lewis said. Lewis advises men to loosen up with fuller cuts and lighter fabrics that aren't too baggy. Pant legs can be cuffed or rolled up to show a little ankle.

Chambray shirts • Inspired by the classic workwear utility shirt, a button-down cotton chambray has a soft worn-in look and feel, which will help keep you cool. For more color or detail, choose a plaid or gingham print, but still keep the look casual with rolled up sleeves. Paired over a tee, the button-down can double as a lightweight jacket for chilly evening events.

Casual shoes • Swap the sneakers for loafers, espadrilles or boat shoes in unique textures and colors. Canvas, burlap and leather slip-ons and lace-ups are a stylish option over the stand by gym shoes. Jeff Barnard, owner of JMR and Lolabella, encourages shoppers to check out TOMS shoes, available for men, women and children, because the brand offers fashion with a cause. With every shoe purchase, the company donates a new pair of shoes to a child in need.

Behind the shoot

Model Michelle Stoll •wears a Season J.S. romper, $71; Kelsi Dagger rhinestone sandal, $69; Peacock feather earrings, $79; beaded bracelet, $44; all from Lolabella.

Models Summer Thatcher (white dress) and Luke Mann • Thatcher wears a Patterson J. Kincaid dress, $188; Kelsi Dagger pewter sandal, $89; and turquoise bead necklace/earring set, $36, all from Lolabella. Mann wears a G-Star tee, $70; G-Star chambray shirt, $180; and G-Star fitted short, $190; all from Bastille; plus TOMS classic canvas shoes, $44; from JMR.

Model Arianna Rowley • wears an Olivia coral dress, $126; Magid straw hat, $35; Jeffrey Campbell sparkle sandal, $78; and gold bracelet, $67; and earrings $26, all from Lolabella.

Model Luke Mann • Mann wears Zurick tee, $28; G-Star plaid button-down, $150; G-Star fitted cargo, $170; all from Bastille; with TOMS classic woven shoe, $55, from JMR.

Model Arianna Rowley • Rowley wears a Ya Los Angeles striped maxi dress, $61; Volcum military jacket, $59; leather belt, $17; wooden bracelets, $9 and $12; and Mia Ltd. Edition wedge heel, $112; all from JMR.

features@sltrib.com —

Here's where to get the looks from our shoot

Lolabella • The Gateway, 801-328-2760

JMR • The Gateway and Fashion Place Mall, 801-456-0257

Bastille • The Gateway, 801-456-0330, www.ilovebastille.com