You can't have summer without sunglasses. But just because they're utilitarian doesn't mean you can't have fun.

Although dresses get a lot of attention in summer, for most women, pants carry the day.

BEAUTY EVENT: Due to customer demand for more natural products, Ulta Beauty in the Stonecrest Shopping Center will hold the “Natural Isn't Just A Look” event every Saturday through Aug. 1. The event will spotlight the store's natural and organic brands and hold demonstrations. Store hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday. The store is at 7844 Rea Road. 704-540-9090; www.ulta.com.

Q. In August, my grandson will be married in a 5 p.m. church ceremony, followed by a reception at a country club. I am unsure whether to wear a long or short dress. The two mothers and bridesmaids will be wearing long gowns. Although there may be no rules, I would like to wear what is most appropriate.

It is hot. And that's not just us whining. The temperature is up, so is the humidity, and we're back to that familiar summer-in-the-Carolinas heat.

In fashion, earthy, nature-inspired trends tend to evoke a familiar palette. The vivid greens of plants, the browns and blacks and whites of animal hides, an occasional splash of ocean blue. But now, enter geodes. Simply-sliced agate and sharp-sided crystals project a raw, unaltered pureness, yet shine bright in stunning violets, fuchsias and turquoise.

Being a Deal Diva isn't something that stops at the retail sliding doors. It is critical that when buying anything you examine your costs and the benefits of the service or product.

Some trendy shoppers don't have the patience to hold out for a bargain, snapping up the hottest looks early in the season at full price. Some smart trendy shoppers, however, know that you don't always have to wait to get au courant styles on sale.

This week's giveaway is a collection of products from Fruits & Passion, including Carrot Cream Bo...

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