|
|
 |
April 2001 Fashion Secret
Spring/Summer 2001 Fashion Update
I don't know about you, but in the northeast we've been tortured by early spring snowstorms, sleet, and below average temperatures. Is spring really here? By mid-April I think we can safely (or at least in defiance) put away our winter garb and give serious consideration to what to wear as we head into warmer weather.
As you might recall, last spring was a nightmare for shoppers. Only about 20% of what we saw in the stores was actually wearable by anyone over the age of 22. And, most of it was not at all appropriate for work — business casual or otherwise! This year looks much more promising. Dressing up a bit more is the norm rather than the exception and there are styles suited (if you will) to a more mature women (not matronly, just mature). Let's take a look at what some of the fashion trends are for this season:
Stripes
I can't tell you the number of times I've shopped with someone and she's cringed at the thought of wearing horizontal stripes. Sure, horizontal stripes can add width, but believe it or not, that's sometimes good — even for women who wear above a size 8. It's all about proportion. For instance, if you wear a size 16 on bottom and 12 on top, a horizontally striped shirt would help to balance your top with your bottom. This is a good thing, and in this case it's appropriate to wear horizontal stripes--especially if you are also small busted. Of course, when in doubt vertical stripes are great on everyone!
Sling-back Shoes
Last year all you could buy (or so it seemed) were slides (or mules to those of us over 35). This year, although there are still an abundance of slides, sling-backs are the way to go. If you're someone who had a difficult time getting those slides to stay on or who found them uncomfortable, sling-backs are a lovely alternative. You'll find them in everything from dressy shoes, to casual sandals, even sneakers!
Fabric, fabric, fabric
Are you a purist when it comes to the fabrics you wear? If so, this is the time to reconsider. Ten or more years ago, synthetic fabrics translated into squishy polyester that didn't breathe and had a dreadful shine to it. That's no longer true. Some of the most amazing (and comfortable) fabrics are now manmade or blends. This season, where there's a return to some styles of past decades when polyester reigned, the thing that makes them wearable now is the fabric. Many microfibers are amazingly lightweight and often include 3-4% stretch. The blends are fabulous and allow for freedom of movement that wasn't available years ago. I promise, it's a change worth investigating.
Military
We're not talking officer material here, we're in the trenches. Camouflage is big and looks best worn with wider belts and even a dog tag necklace. As with most super trendy looks, however, a little bit goes a long way.
Preppy
Where would we be without a preppy influence in the summer months. You know the look, and you either like it or you don't. Again, unless you're preppy at heart, just add a touch here or there.
Drawstring top
We saw them last year and they are back. They have a sweetness to them that does not belong in the office. Save them for appropriate casual, non-work occasions.
Floral prints
We're not talking romantic tiny flowers. We're talking big, bold and fun! They are not for the faint of heart--and petite women should be careful. Where will you find them? Mostly in dresses, pants and skirts. Because they are so "in your face," wear one print at a time paired with a solid top or bottom.
Shirtdresses
Remember them? June Cleaver step aside. The new and improved shirtdress is here. No more stiff fabrics, this season you'll find them softer, flowing fabrics that move with you rather than having a life of their own. Because they are all in one pattern or solid, they have an elongating effect, and you'll find a variety of sleeve lengths to suit your preference. Most of them come with a belt but that doesn't mean they can't be worn without. You just have to be sure it fits your body and doesn't look frumpy. As an added bonus, the tailored collar is perfect for accessorizing!
Mini-skirts
Yikes they are back! I'm talking the micro-mini and they are best worn on the very young and the very slim (remember, your skirt should always be longer than it is wide). If you have the legs, the body and the confidence to wear them, then go for it. Remember, however, they are not appropriate for the office — ever — and they are best worn when you'll spend most of your time standing--for obvious reason! The good news for the rest of us is that we are not limited to wearing minis--there are other options. Pretty much any length (other than mid-calf) will work.
Draping Fabrics
As I mentioned above, fabric plays a significant role in style these days, and designers are making the most of it. Because many of these fabrics drape so beautifully, you'll find lovely styles that fall gently along your curves. They have the advantage, for those of us who need it, of making a small bust look larger and create the illusion of a curvier figure. But be careful. If you're already curvy, shirring (decorative draping of fabric) will accentuate every curve. Placement is key!
Summer is a short season. In the northeast, it's just getting hot about the time everything goes on sale to make room for fall fashions. To get the best selection, shop between now and late May and keep these things in mind when selecting something trendy to add pizzazz to your wardrobe:
a.. Love it!
b.. Keep it understated — a little goes a long way
c.. When in doubt, don't!
d.. Don't spend a lot on it
e.. Save the trendiest looks for after work
Oh, and I almost forgot... have fun!
Back to Archives List
Sun image courtesy ArtToday.com
|
|
 |
