Style.com is currently showcasing looks inspired by that preppiest of summer playgrounds, Nantucket. While we SO wish we were there (sorry loyal readers, it IS August after all), we can suggest some of the best examples of these looks, emphasizing bright colors, simplicity and class.

This pink Diane Von Furstenberg dress ($425) is perfect for a night on the town. The hot pink is girly and flirty, but true to form, Von Furstenberg’s construction keeps the look sophisticated with her trademark “wrap” and a preppy collar. Dress it up with nice jewelry and heels for a summer wedding, or take it down a notch with flats and sunglasses for a casual lunch with your girlfriends. Either way, it’s a keeper!

Yes, the high waist is STILL in! This pencil skirt from Alice + Olivia ($264) is a first-class ticket to proper preppy style. So simple and elegant! It has a remarkably flattering fit that leaves you looking svelte. We’d pair it with a white or colorful tank (tucked in, natch) or a blouse for an interview or more formal meeting.

Need to grab something from the store, but don’t want to look like a slob? Err on the side of comfort, but guard against looking too sloppy, just in case… This Vince striped cashmere cardigan is the perfect solution ($320). Throw it on over a white tank and black leggings, just grab your purse and go!

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School’s out forever, so here’s a look that works!

Shelly is sporting a fetchingly professional 2-toned Theory dress ($295) and gray patent sandals ($345). Because this is California, she accessorizes her look with Oliver Peoples sunglasses ($285) and a leather cuff ($250) and black necklace ($175) from Pono.

Shop Theory at CUSP.com

Photo: CUSP Century City, Shelly

This fall it’s ALL about the small picture. We’re loving the embellishments and subtle touches of taste that turn a good pair of shoes great.

Take this black crocodile-embossed patent leather side zip Tory Burch bootie (bottom)– and then note the added touch of gold hardware on the heel that takes it from simply refined to remarkable ($395).

Available at CUSP.com

Don’t have time to stop by CUSP to see the latest arrivals? Shop CUSP.com from the comfort of your cubicle for our latest Fall Denim! Find the top styles from William Rast, 7 For All Mankind, Citizens of Humanity, Rock and Republic and more!

It’s not too soon to start incorporating a few autumn hues into your wardrobe. Tanya from our Tysons Corner boutique sports this Madison Marcus ombre dress ($348), a perfect compliment to the deeper tones and ever lengthening shadows of late summer. Paired with a patent clutch from Lauren Merkin ($180) and YSL Mary Janes ($595)

Photo: CUSP Tysons Corner, Stylist: Tanya

Here’s a refresher course on some of the top trends we’re loving right now, in case summer vacation (remember those?) has caused your mind to wander.

First up we have “Shine,” not to mention our seasonally transcendent love of all things Tory Burch with her beetle-print blouse ($350). And while this top likewise qualifies as “Bold Color,” why not overachieve a bit with this Marc by Marc Jacobs orange jacket ($478) and yellow belt by Luxurious ($82)

High-Waisted jeans are still hot (Marc by Marc Jacobs, $193), and though they’re tough to see here, trust us– these Dolce Vita platform pumps ($165) are every bit as cute and stylish as their designer, Ivy Kirzhner (our most recent CUSP designer interview).

Model: Ana, CUSP Tysons Corner

Two days ago we showed off four new See by Chloe handbags that just arrived at CUSP Tysons Corner (and CUSP.com). However, we forgot to mention that the blue leather bag ($695) reverses to show off a vibrant floral print (yes Northern Virginia, florals are still very in), with leather pockets.

Available at CUSP.com and CUSP boutiques.

Photo: CUSP Tysons Corner

We caught up with Shelly, from our Century City boutique, as she was getting into her new car (j/k). When not riding the coin-op Jeep in the parking lot, she knows how to put together a perfect, purple-themed look that would make “The Artist Formerly Known as The Artist Formerly Known As…” jealous.

Sporting a Vince sweater coat in berry ($365), with a black LNA long sleeve cotton tee($66) underneath, she pairs these regal tops with Georgie’s black stirrup riding pants ($188) . To complete the look, Shelly dons Pour La Victoire “Ophelie” mary janes ($275), a Kenneth Jay Lane hippopotamus necklace ($110) and a Marc by Marc Jacobs Dr. Q Groovee satchel in purple ($498).

Of course you can find these looks at your nearest CUSP boutique, or online at CUSP.com

Photo: CUSP Century City