THE WORD ON WHAT’S HIP AND WHAT’S HYPE : Top This

“Cutting edge” is how Ipso Facto owner Terri Kennedy describes the whimsical hats available at the Fullerton boutique. The hats ($20 to $30), designed by local artist Shawnee under her label Baghead, are made from unconventional materials, are fully lined and one of a kind. Federal Express packaging in particular holds a great appeal for the budding milliner. “She’s trying to stitch up a two-piece suit,” Kennedy confides. “No kidding.”

Beads You Need

Skirt lengths are longer, and so are necklaces. The longer they are the better. The more piled on, the funkier. Or wrap a single strand around your neck for a combined choker and necklace effect. The pick for this summer of love? Long strands of colored, antique glass beads for a look that’s perfectly modern.

For Working Girls

Uniform work wear might be all the rage, but not everyone likes looking like a handyman. So designer Shawna Blotzer responded with a “girl’s version” under her label Eat At Joe’s: the waitress blouse. “I like the ‘50s style of the silhouette,” says the Huntington Beach designer. The classic cut is fitted at the waist--a sexy alternative to boxy, oversized work shirts. The top ($40) with “Joe’s” patch is available in mechanic blue and crisp white; without the patch it comes in prints and the solid colors.

Baby’s in Black

Toddlers too cool for pink and pastel blue can turn to L.A. Kid’s clothes. Each panel, sleeve and trim appears in red, green, yellow or black and is mixed for a colorful, urban look. “It’s very Cross Colours,” says a saleswoman at Mervyn’s in Garden Grove about the line of Tees, jeans and hooded tops, which retail from $10 to $12. Parents doubtful of how fly this gear is can look to the tag’s message: “How 2 be hip when you hop.” The reverse side carries literal and slang definitions of “hip” and “hop,” for the fashion-impaired.