You’re all probably aware of the runway’s hottest trends for summer: maxi dresses, crochet and massive tribal patterns. You’ve seen the movement toward retro, lady-like styles and natural hues.

Maybe you’ve taken these trends and manifested them into the mid-Missouri college lifestyle. You strut down Ninth Street like it’s a runway. Good for you.

If you’re like much of Columbia’s female population, however, you may have disregarded these fads. Maybe you’re a little scared. A little offended. Or maybe you think your budget won’t allow you to indulge in a summer staple or two.

Perhaps you’ve lost your faith in what a small mid-Missouri town can offer. Maybe you feel like there’s simply no point in trying. It’s too hard. And it’s too hot out.

But this column has come bearing good news. You _can_ incorporate these trends into your daily outfit. You _can_ afford to look chic. And you _can_ obtain every single item you need right here in Columbia.

MOVE wants to make it easy for you. Here are five basic summer essentials to create the perfect summer look:

**Start simple.**
You know and love the wardrobe necessity known as the oversized tee. This, preferably in white or beige, should be the starting point when creating the perfect summer look with the listed essentials. Pick one up at Target, the mall or any boutique downtown at an affordable price.

**Comfy and cool: wood bottom sandals.**
Replacing the awkward and un-wearable clogs of yesteryear, these babies come in any height, color and strap style. It’s impossible not to stay on trend with so much variety (in looks and price). They’re comfy and casual, yet they can turn your basic outfit into a statement in an instant. You can find them at any shoe retailer in Columbia, and for shoes like the Dolce Vita sandals pictured, swing by Swank Boutique in The District.

**Make a statement with a touch of tribal.**
The incredible pieces from House of Harlow 1960 can also be found at Swank. Nicole Richie knows what she’s doing: her tribal collection is spot-on with gorgeous turquoises, corals and camels. These pieces are the perfect way to work the primitive trend in a subtle and wearable manner. Items from this collection range from $45 for the Turquoise Leather Triangle ring to around $100 for the Tribal Drop earrings.

**Come full circle with round shades.**
Lady-like elegance is back with conservative sundresses and hats this summer. Channel your inner sixties-housewife with some bold circle sunglasses. This style is quickly replacing Ray-Ban Wayfarers and aviators for the summer, and they really add a splash of unexpected creativity to the most basic of outfits.

You can find several variations of this style for around $12 at Maude Vintage on Broadway Avenue. Perhaps the best-kept secret for sunglass shopping, however, is the University Bookstore. Hidden between the Vera Bradley display and cash registers is a treasure trove of sunglasses —- really cool sunglasses.

**Add a pop of color with pink lips.**
Not as classic but just as retro as red, bright pink lipstick is the perfect day-to-night transition this summer. Stand out from the crowd in this versatile and bold trend; pink lips look fantastic on any skin tone. Pick some up at Walgreens for under $5 or student charge a more expensive lipstick at the University Bookstore’s Clinique.

Mix and match these pieces to include subtle statements throughout the summer or, if you’re feeling bold, combine them all at once. When in doubt, pair your oversized shirt with a handful of layered necklaces. Turn it into a nighttime look with some platform heels and that pink lipstick. You can layer the shirt with a skirt or some crochet shorts — tucked in or out. Or, if it’s long enough, wear it alone as a dress.