Like ice lollies and BBQ sausages, some things are just better suited to the peak of summer. It's the same for fashion trends that come with a specific June to September shelf life.

If you're going to pull off tropical prints or deckchair stripes, you really need the weather to play (beach)ball. That, or book a sun holiday pronto, so you can showcase your transient new closet in a suitable setting.

This is the time of year to take a few more risks with your clothes - but be quick. A word of warning: winter coats will be hitting the high street in a matter of months...

DESERT STORM

Step this way, minimalists. The utilitarian trend has adopted a Sonoran Desert twist. If you love the military trend, this is the summer refresh, with clean silhouettes in whites, khakis and sandy tones. Keep detailing to a minimum, other than practical pockets and waist belts. When it comes to silhouette, don't be afraid to mix structured jackets with relaxed skirts or culottes.

KEY PIECE: Stone suede shorts. Because when else can you wear real suede without the fear of raindrop splodges? Go for high-waisted styles for the most flattering fit.

DECKCHAIR STRIPES

Put your Breton top on vacation because this summer is all about bold, deckchair-inspired stripes. Try this trend if you favour more structured pieces in slightly stiffer fabrics - stripes look better contained. Got an exhibitionist streak? Brave bright, multi-coloured wide stripes, but if you're trying the trend for the first time, stick to two colours like cobalt and white.

KEY PIECE: Striped jacket. Meet your new summer cover-up. Throw over your shoulders for a nonchalant look or wear fastened up to the collar to smarten up.

CLUB TROPICANA

No summer is complete without palm prints and hibiscus flowers. Upgrade from your dainty country garden florals to this vacation-ready look. Even fruit is in on the act, with statement lemon or pineapple prints aplenty for a quirkier play on the trend. One key piece is all you need, whether it's a dress, jacket, shorts or top. If you want to pare it down, pair your print with denim or black linen.

KEY PIECE: Palm print dress. Think modern day Hawaiian shirt. Stick to classic greens and go for a fresh white backdrop or muted grey for a softer take.

PRAIRIE GIRL

This season's folk look is more luxe artisan than boho hippy. Think delicate embroidered pieces, statement fringing and intricate prints. Everything should be relaxed but not over-floaty - ideal for heatwave dressing. Go with one statement accessory so you don't look like you've raided a trinket stall - either a tassled bag, embellished sandals, or layers of fine jewellery.

KEY PIECE: Maxi skirt. No bohemian look is complete without a long skirt to sweep the puddle-free pavements. Try a print against a black or navy base for a leaner silhouette.

GET THE LOOK

TV presenter Emma Willis gets it 'white' on at the Glamour Awards, in a textured co-ord set from Mother Of Pearl. Twirl on summer dancefloors in New Look's White Waffle Textured Balloon Midi Skater Skirt , £19.99 (www.newlook.com).

BUY IT NOW

Pack a beach cover-up with some designer credentials. Thomson has teamed up with Jade Jagger, who's designed an exclusive collection of print kaftans. Available in five colourways, £95 each, available at www.thomson.co.uk

FASHION FLASH

:: ROOM STYLE SERVICE

If excess baggage is a problem, it might pay to check in at a hotel with a Fashion Mini Bar. Forget the spirit bottles and jelly bean jars, the new closet concept is a capsule wardrobe stocked with outfits and accessories, unique to the location and weather of your vacation city. Simply wear and pay at checkout, like a regular mini-bar. Fashion brand Pimkie is launching the first in-room fashion bar at the boutique Banks Hotel in Belgium's fashion capital Antwerp. Visit www.minifashionbar.com/en

:: STYLE STEAL

If you haven't heard the name Roberto Faraone Mennella, you've probably seen the couture jewellery on the red carpets. Now you can sparkle at a fraction of the cost with a new diffusion line at QVC, Roberto by RFM. Prices start from just £21, available now (www.qvcuk.com).