Adult swim

Summer is looking unusually refined. Shades of coral, pink, and turquoise, normally seen lounging at poolside cocktail parties, have taken a vacation this season. In their place are black, white, and, of course, gray.

"I think the great thing about black and white is that it can be incorporated into any wardrobe regardless of your style," says Kate Lanphear , senior fashion and style editor of Elle. "It can be dramatic, romantic, or sexy and beachy. It doesn't matter if you're minimalist or more into prints, there's a certain elegance to black and white, and that's why I think it's taken off for summer."

Designers first hinted at the black-and-white avalanche at New York Fashion Week last fall. Luella Bartley's summer line was dominated by black - and - white prints, and other designers stayed close by with black and white, or neutral themes. On the runway, it was difficult to envision how this neutral parade would work in summery settings. So we enlisted three fashion-loving Celtics Dancers, Chantal Erasmus, Cherie Blier, and Emily Johnson , to play dress-up at the Colonnade's rooftop pool (much to the delight of a few sunbathers who looked on) to celebrate the start of summer in some of this season's best black-and-white offerings.

For men, the look this summer is softer grays, and even hints of pastel. Continuing the trend of more body-conscious clothing for men, this summer's swim trunks are intended to show off long hours spent at the gym.

Lee Gilliam and Zach Bubolo of Dynasty Models . Make-up by Jeannie Vincent, Fresh . Hair by Lori O'Brien, Salon Mario Russo at Louis Boston. Styled by Christopher Muther. Shot on location at the Colonnade Hotel.