Summer really is just around the corner now, in fact we have even had a little taste of it already. Time to stock up on a few summer wardrobe esssentials, unearth your shorts, maxi dresses and little summer tops. Each year there are a few key trends that you can easily use to update your wardrobe and keep your outfits looking fresh and trendy. These pieces can usually be combined with items from previous seasons to give you a fashion forward look. Here is our pick of the key summer wardobe essentials for summer 2011.

Flares and Flared Jeans


It is official when it comes to trousers, flares are the new skinnies. Flares are a really easy style to wear for summer and look perfect with the seasons platform sandals. The can be worn with just about any top but to get that 70s style, opt for a loose fitting chiffon top.

Floral Shift Dress


Floral and botanical prints are every wear this summer. The easiest and most wearable choice of floral dresses is definitely the floral shift dress. Wear it for work, wear it for parties, wear it for lunch with the girls. You can also take your pick from bold and bright florals to romantic ditsy florals.

Block Colour Sheath Dresses



Another big trend for the summer is colour blocking. Choose from a huge range of brightly coloured sheath dresses for the simplest way to work this trend. You can add a few coloured accessories in clashing or complimentary colours to complete the look.

70s Style Blouse


The seventies style will be huge this summer but is also set to last right into the autumn and winter making any seventies pieces that you choose to buy a really good investment. Look for loose floaty chiffon, pussy bow blouses and fringed or lace bohemian styles.

Coloured Jeans



Red jeans have been putting in  a lot of appearances on the streetstyle blogs lately but if red isn't your colour there are plenty of other choices of coloured jeans  available even including floral printed.Team your red jeans with black white of neutrals for one of the hottest casual looks of the summer. Cropped styles of coloured jeans are ideal for the warmer weather.

Wide Legged Jumpsuit
If you have a glamorous even to attend this summer then a wide legged jumpsuit is a great alternative to a dress. It is yet another 70s style that I love for the summer. Be sure to wear your jumpsuit with some fabulous wedge shoes.