Judie and Evelinda: It's summer sales time! If you're one of those women who hate to shop the sales, relax. We have some tips to make your shopping experience easier, along with a few hints to save you some dough along the way. We predict the following items will still be in style next year, so here's our list of items to load up on during the summer sales:

• Walking shorts: Our mothers always said that the last thing to go are the calves, so buy shorts that hit right below the knee. Wear them with wedge heels or ballerina flats topped with cropped jackets or tunic tops.

• Swing-style cropped jackets: Some call them swing, some call them trapeze. Whatever you call them, you can't have enough of these loose-fitting, figure-flattering jackets. They dress up jeans, hide big tummies and can be worn to work with skirts and nice slacks.

• Dresses: Wrap styles, empire waists, sheaths - pick your favorite because now's the time to make sure your closet has some dresses hanging in it. Dresses are easy to wear: no mixing-and-matching issues, they can be dressed up or down with shoes and jewelry and they make you feel feminine in a Doris Day kind of a way. Wear long- sleeve T-shirts under the dresses with boots to carry them into fall.

• Capris: You should already have a bunch, but if not, this is the time to add to your summer capri- pant wardrobe.

• Layering pieces: Fashion will still be all about layering next spring. Stock up on tank tops, loose-fitting shirts, white blouses and camisoles; all can be layered to create your individual style.

• Belts: These are still a major fashion statement whether worn at the hip or at the waist. We love the Leather Rock brand of belts. If you find some on sale, snap them up.

• Purses: This is the time to buy that handbag you've had your eye on but whose original price made you gasp. Shell out the bucks for a great summer style, but stay away from highly embellished purses. Trends are moving toward simpler and more structured.

• Summer suits: If you're a working woman and want to upgrade your business-casual wardrobe, snap up some summer suits, both slack and skirt. Buy in black, beige, navy and white.

• Bathing suits: We know - they're the worst thing to shop for. We hate our bodies as much as you hate yours. Forget about it. Buy several on sale and what the heck, go have some fun.

Style Matters' final tip: Once you're in the stores, remember: You're not there to pay full price or shop for fall. Stay focused. Go directly to the sales racks.

Get Style Matters' book "A Fashion- Lover's Guide to the Best Shopping in Denver and Beyond" at major bookstores, selected boutiques and stylematters.us.