{Editor's Note: One of my fave things to do in Vancouver is attend the Vancouver Art Gallery's seasonal FUSE events, and this summer's edition is going to be BIG: think dance, DJs and world-class art... Matisse, people! Comment on any Trip Styler post -- and like us on Facebook if you're not already a fan -- FOR A CHANCE TO WIN two FUSE tickets for Friday, July 6th (8pm - 1am), a $50 value. Contest open Friday June 29th to Wednesday July 4th at noon. Winner must be from Canada or the US, be over 19 and respond to the email with winner details by Thursday July 5th at noon.}
Summer: Hey you! I'm here now! Me: Finally, you little tease. Summer: I come at the same time every year... Me: I know, I just wish you were here all the time. I was ready for beach days, iced coffee and shorts forever ago. Summer: Well then move to California, why don't you? Me: Touché, Summer, touché.
It's officially summer. Unless, of course, you live in the Southern Hemisphere, but I digress. What was it the Fresh Prince said about Summertime? "The weather is hot and girls are dressing less". True that, Will Smith.
When I think of summer style, I think of Heidi Merrick. Raised in Carpinteria and based in Los Angeles, this true Californian creates beautiful clothes that are summer personified. Her spring 2012 collection is an homage to the glamour of 80s pro surfing, a culture that embodied her upbringing since her father made surfboards and her mother owned a surf shop. Her clothes have a breezy west coast ease to them, but always with a special touch -- a little somethin' somethin' that sets them apart. Bonus: they're made in LA within walking distance from her studio.
Here's a mini Q&A with Heidi, who believes that when dressing for the beach, you should dress to honor the beach. {I love that. Thanks Heidi!} And what better way to honor the coast than by rolling up in a pair of black lace shorts?
What does summer style mean to you? Summer is when everyone tries to look like Californians and Californians are their most cool and natural! I love to wear something beautiful, like exquisite, to the beach. Because the coastlines are the most beautiful settings the world has and they deserve it. Besides you only wear the clothes for a hot second of greetings and kisses, then you're off in the water.
What's your summer uniform? Right now {at work} it's the La Paz shirt, any pant and sandals.
What's your next summer travel destination? I think my next stop is Scorpion Bay. A girlfriend of mine has the coordinates tattooed to her gorgeous body so I'm guessing it must be amazing!
*Heidi Merrick is available at heidimerrick.com as well as online and in store at {the lovely/must-visit} Oliver & Lilly's in Vancouver. Traveling to Los Angeles? Make an appointment to visit Heidi's studio in downtown LA. I mean COME ON -- how awesome is that?
{Fashion Friday posts are published on the last Friday of every month by fashion blogger Heather.}
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[collage by @heatherlovesit, images from heidimerrick.com]