fashion matrix :: women fashion

CELEBRITY STYLE

2007-09-18T23:55:00.000-07:00

FASHION STYLE

2007-09-18T23:54:00.001-07:00

The majority of women do not have the model body type that allows designer clothing to drape over us effortlessly, but we can come pretty close if we make the right choices. This begins by understanding your body type and letting go of those inner demons telling you to be thinner so you'll look better in clothing. How many times have you or a friend said "I refuse to buy any new clothes until I lose ten pounds", or my favorite, "I'll by this smaller size and it will give me incentive to lose weight". Ladies, please stop!
Train your eye to choose clothing that flatters your individual shape, not an idealized form. Get to know your body and its unique measurements. When you learn to balance your proportions and accentuate your assets, you will achieve effortless style and will have the ability to look as good as any fashion magazine model.
BODY TYPE 1: Triangle
Often referred to as the "pear", you have narrow and sloped shoulders, and larger hips. Most have a slim torso and rib cage and your waist may be smaller in proportion to your hips. You also have a fuller bottom and legs. This is the most common figure type.
FIT SOLUTIONS
The key is to draw the eye away from your widest hip area. Your best styles will accentuate your neck and slim upper body and minimize your lower half.
Tops: Avoid a short boxy line on top. Your best tops will focus on widening your shoulders. Choose ballet and boat necks, puff sleeves, dolman and batwing sleeves. V-necks and blouses with princess seams that accentuate your waist. Stay away from crop tops and anything that stops at your navel or above - it will cut you in half thus accentuating your lower half!
Dresses: Empire waisted and babydoll styles as well as kimono, dolman and flutter sleeved. Wrap dresses that accentuate your waist and draw attention to your neck and shoulders with a v-neck style.
Skirts: Choose a circle or a-line skirt with a lower waist and minimal waistband. Straight skirts work well worn just above the knee in a fabric that drapes well.
Pants: A straight cut with a bootleg or slight flare is your best bet. Choose a lower waist pant that has a flat front - no pleats or pockets placed across your widest part! High waist pants that are at or above your navel can mold around your hips and butt and give the appearance of bulk. Capris should also have a slight flare at the bottom.
Fabric and Color: Darker colors will recede and make you look smaller, so generally darker bottoms and lighter tops work nicely. Bold, large prints can work well for taller Type 1 women, but stick with smaller prints if you are average to petite.
BODY TYPE 2: Hourglass
You have well proportioned shoulders that are in line with your hips and a waist approximately 10" smaller. Curvy describes you the best and you have a small to average, defined waistline and an average to full bottom and many have of you have great legs.
FIT SOLUTIONS
You can wear any type of clothing that stays in proportion to your height and weight. Find clothing with shape and soft, fluid fabrics to highlight your curves.
Tops: Almost anything goes. Best bets are fitted blouses, halters, wrap tops, and blouson. If you have a fuller bust, avoid breast pockets, pleating or ruffles in that area.
Dresses: Tank and sheath dresses, nipped-waist and bias, wrap, strapless and anything that highlights your curves.
Skirts: Pencil and bias cut skirts look great on your body-type. If you are fuller in the stomach and hips, avoid excess material or horizontal pockets in this area.
Pants: A straight cut with a bootleg or slight flare is your best bet, but you can opt for slimmer styles if your hips and thighs are average to small. Choose a lower waist pant that has a flat front.
Fabric and Color: Experiment with color, prints and texture to see what fits your personality and stature. Choose fabrics that drape well and are not stiff. You want to highlight your curves, not hide them or create a boxy midsection.
BODY TYPE 3: V-Shape
You may describe your figure as boyish or athletic, but you are lucky to have the model type body that looks great in almost every style. Your shoulders are broader than your hips. Your waist is average and less defined and you have narrow hips, a smaller and sometimes flat bottom with slimmer legs.
FIT SOLUTIONS
Your narrow hips give you choice and versatility. If your shoulders are very broad, you will want to add volume to your hips for balance and stay away from styles that exaggerate the shoulder area.
Tops: V-necks, U-necks, sleeveless and tanks with wider straps. Avoid tops with a horizontal line or widening effect near the top such as puff sleeves, boat necks, epaulettes, or fussy details.
Dresses: Avoid high waistlines and empire seams or ruffles near the top. Look for details like bold prints, pockets and pleats on the lower half to add fullness and keep it simple on top.
Skirts: Torso skirts with soft pleating, tiers and gathering are your first choice because they add volume and balance your figure. Stay away from any style that gathers at the natural waist or appears to cut you in half, thus exaggerating the upper body.
Pants: Your choice - with narrow hips you can wear them all.
Fabric and Color: Experiment with color, prints and texture to see what fits your personality and stature. Create interest on the bottom half with prints and color and keep the top simple to downplay the shoulder area.

FASHION CAREERS

2007-09-18T23:53:00.001-07:00

A thing of beauty is a joy forever! This thought holds complete significance in the fashion industry. It is an exciting industry that attracts many brilliant, ambitious, creative, talented, committed and hard working people. Success in the fashion industry calls for an ultimate passion and enthusiasm to achieve set targets. The desires to create, see, explore and appreciate beauty must be inherent. It's a creative field and one needs to possess as well as acquire certain skills that are indispensable, such as thinking creatively beyond the obvious and the ability to carve a niche in almost all the possible projects by making it different yet stunning than the previous one.
Careers in the fashion industry revolve around beauty. In order to be successful in this field you should have the unquenchable thirst for beauty in its all-relevant forms. Changing fashion statements determine the change in the trend of clothing, ornamenting and above all, adopting new ways of carrying oneself.
It is the style that brings elegance with a difference in different designs. Style is an individual aspect. No two people can have exactly the same style statement because every person has a unique style of their own. Therefore, the concepts related to fashion are also different. Some people feel that fashion is the passion of the slaves and that is why they try to dress and carry themselves in a manner similar to that of models walking on the ramp. This thought is challenged by a different thought; those who go against the fashion trends are themselves the slaves of the fashion.
No matter what different concepts abound, fashion is a career industry that is never going to fade. There are immense opportunities in this field, as you can opt for any of the following job prospects pertaining to your areas of interest: modeling, catwalk choreography, fashion photography, designing, merchandising, make-up artists, hair styling, and accessory designing.
Modeling: Modeling is a promising career that requires having a certain confidence and a pleasing appearance that needs to confirm to the basic standards of fashion designers. One needs to have an inclination towards glitz and glamour, as it is part and parcel of this industry.
Catwalk Choreography: Catwalk Choreography aims at training models to present their attire in an appealing and professional way. Designers hire talented choreographers because they know that every movement with the background music counts on the ramp. It can make or break an entire fashion show.
Fashion Photography: Fashion Photography is a very demanding career that requires the utmost dedication, sincerity, sensitivity and at the same time objectivity towards the subjects. It is the job of the fashion photographer to present clear expression to almost all the possible facets of style such as fabric, design, designer, model and the like.
Fashion Designing: Fashion designing is one of the most promising careers in fashion industry. It needs to have the ability to think, comprehend and implement the latest and original ideas in order to be successful in this field. Designers can specialize in apparel, textile, accessory designer and many more. Fashion Coordinator: A fashion coordinator is responsible for coordinating fabrics and trimmings, quality and design. He/she needs to keep a constant track of production schedules and needs to be aware of the status of buyers' orders.
There are several career options that need to be explored by aspiring students. You can certainly excel in this field provided you believe in the proverb; "work is worship" and have immense potential to rise and make your mark in the fashion industry.

FASHION DESIGNER

2007-09-18T23:52:00.001-07:00

When you take a look at what is up and coming when it comes to careers among the younger generation fashion designer seems to be a frequent choice. This comes from the freedom that younger generations have gained in being able to set what they want to wear. Because of this, setting trends instead of following them has become a norm.
The life of a fashion designer is also one that is full of excitement. You get the ability to meet famous people and if you are lucky, enough get the opportunity to have those people wear your designs. For those that do not want to be in the spot light there are other options available that will still give the opportunity to be a part of the fashion industry. These options are areas such as marketing, website design, the more practical areas of cutting, and sewing. A Fashion designer can create designs for any type of clothing where but many choose a particular market to focus on. For example, a designer may choose to focus on children or just men's clothing.
There are also fashion designers that work exclusively on things like purses, jewelry and other accessories. They start by drawing out their concept on paper. It may change several times before they are happy with it. Then if it is a clothing designer, they create the design on a larger piece of paper and use it to create a pattern. They don't use the final cloth for this but use what is called a rough cloth in order to work out any difficulties before taking the time and expense of doing it in a final cloth. A Fashion designer must have knowledge of things like weave, fabric, material, color, design, and knowing what customers want.
A designer must also be artistic and creative, because portfolios are based on sketches they need to be able to at least draw out the basics for their designs. Because the fashion industry is ever changing, doing research is a daily requirement for someone in the fashion industry they must be aware of changing trends and some of that they can obtain from marketing research. By taking a look at what people in their target market are buying a fashion designer can see where people are leaning when it comes to trends and respond accordingly.
Being a fashion designer is a worthwhile career but it is not just about the lay of a fabric or the type of fabric chosen. It is about knowing how colors, shapes, textures, and fabric types go together. It is about knowing what the industry is doing and what people are going to want to see. Being a fashion designer is also about being artistic, creative and innovative. It can be quite a challenge and the industry is highly competitive. There can also be more stress than in normal jobs because people are constantly four times a year demand to see something new.

FASHION SHOWS

2007-09-18T23:50:00.000-07:00

FASHION HISTORY

2007-09-18T23:44:00.000-07:00

Throughout the years, women's fashion and design has always been influenced by history, politics, and location. A woman's status and station in society also affected the types of clothing choices deemed acceptable or expected of her. When taking a look at history, the role of the woman unfolds through popular clothing styles, as revealed through hemlines, layers of clothing, shoes, and overall fashion. Below you will find a collection of significant changes in women's fashion trends starting with the 1900s.
During the 1900s, legs and feet of the woman were rarely seen (unless in the sitting position). This meant that stockings, shoes, and other footwear didn't gain much attention. Clothing and shoes of the time highlighted silk bows, small buckles, and dark colors. Pointed toes and a moderate high heel were in fashion. Women's skirts became narrower after the Civil War and displayed more of a cone-shape rather than a bell. Clothing was heavily starched and "shirtwaists" became the latest style, which were fashioned after men's shirts.
In the 1920s, legs became an asset and showed through the kind of clothing worn during this time period. Hemlines rose and women began to take great interest in flesh-colored stockings and shoes. The expensive silk stocking accompanied eveningwear, while ribbed and patterned selections (diamond-cut) became the rage. "Flapper" fashion took over with the Roaring 20s, highlighting floating fabrics, handkerchief hemlines, and girdles.
When the 1930s arrived, women's fashion took a turn back to portraying a more "ladylike" appearance. The clothes were feminine in style - crisp and clean during the day and glamorous by night. More sophisticated shoes emerged, including the strappy open-toed sandal. Additional features of the decade included short-fitted suits and jackets, the "little black dress," and the introduction of nylon.
In the 1940s, World War II took a toll on women's fashion, as leather shoes lessened and certain fabrics were limited. Heavy wooden soles and wedge heels became commonplace. A host of clothing items were rationed - bought using a "coupon" system. Some of the non-rationed items included mending wool, ribbons, lace, suspenders, and clogs. Women began painting their shoes with bright colors or decorating the sides of the soles with small shells or studs to elevate their sense of style.
During the 1950s, glamour took over and it showed in the latest women's fashion designs. Full skirts with petticoats, swoop-line empire dresses, and fancy suits became popular. Many women now wore a stiletto heel and Italian shoes (known for ultra-elegance and refinement). Seamless stockings and beehive hairdos accompanied the clothing of the 50's.
The 1960s brought more freethinking attitudes of the world, including fashion. Skirts became much shorter - leading to the creation of the "mini." Stockings were tossed to the side and pantyhose made an impression on the women of the 60's. Flat boots were worn with very short dresses. Additional fashion introductions of the 60s included psychedelic fabric prints, denim jeans, and the pill box hat. Shoes became chunkier, displaying thicker low heels with rounded or squared toes. Buckle shoes were quite "in" with matching gold or silver heels to match the buckles.
About the Author:
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FASHION ACCESSORIES

2007-09-18T23:40:00.000-07:00

The secret to dressing successfully for the prom lies on the use of accessories. Wearing appropriate prom accessories can modify average outfits into fantastic outfits. However, every person has different tastes and preferences.
There are several accessories which can make you shine during the occasion. Prom night is one of the most important, memorable, and special night for many students in high school. Women can show off their beautiful dresses and men are dressed up as gorgeous gentlemen. It is necessary that parents and teens know a little about fashion to make the event extra glamorous.
The preparation never ends with finding the perfect prom dress. Adding a few prom accessories can make a big difference, not just on the personality of the wearer but also in styling preferences. Wear accessories that can make your looks eye-catching and splendidly beautiful regardless of your style.
Selecting accessories for your prom must be done carefully. You can either make or break a perfect look that you want for the occasion. Among the common accessories used in the prom includes the prom handbag or purse, shawl, gloves, slips, prom jewelries, prom shoes, garment bags, hair accessories, body glitter, nail polish, tattoo, underwear and bras, and others.
Prom Handbag or Purse
Choose a purse which is simply large enough to carry your lipstick, extra pair of panty hose, powder, money, a camera, and a few safety pins. Avoid carrying a big purse or handbag. This accessory should be compatible with your prom shoe and dress. If you look and feel great in blue accessories then choose a blue purse or handbag matched with blue jewelries and other accessories.
Prom shawl
This can be used to hide your shoulders especially if your dress is revealing. This simple clothing piece is loosely worn on the arms, upper body, shoulders, and even on the head. Normally, it has a rectangular shape folded in a triangle form. Women wear it for several reasons such as keeping them warm when the venue gets cold, complement their dress, or for symbolic functions. Never wear a jacket. A prom shawl can provide additional fashion and warmth during the occasion.
Prom Jewelries
These prom accessories can make the prom night really special provided that you have your shoes, dress, and a purse or handbag. Select jewelries that are playful and fun. Your prom night attire is incomplete without these eye popping, cool necklaces, bracelets, toe rings, earrings, and other jewelries. It can make you shine especially if it matches your dress perfectly.
Prom shoes
Search for the perfect footwear or shoe to match your dress. The task is not difficult as long as you know several fashion tricks. The most significant factor when choosing your prom shoes is comfort. Amazing shoes do not make any sense if it will cause you pain. High-heeled shoes are ideal for this event. Your legs may appear longer and slimmer and allows you to maintain a good posture.
Never forget to begin early. Make plans ahead of time. This is the best way of finding the right prom accessories which complement each other well. Ensure that the best points are highlighted to stand out from the rest during the prom night. Give weight to some of your favorite parts when choosing prom accessories. Find styles which make flaunts your best points. However, elegance and simplicity must be maintained.

FASHION INDUSTRY

2007-09-18T23:36:00.000-07:00

STREET FASHION

2007-09-18T23:35:00.000-07:00

Fashion is alive and well on the high street with many classic and exciting haute couture fashion designers such as Stella McCartney, as well as celebrities such as Madonna getting in on the act and launching their own clothing ranges to varying degrees of success! There has never been more choice when it comes to high street fashions and with millions of garments and accessories available, now is as good a time as ever to update your wardrobe.
But what high street fashions will you be attracted to, and where will you find them? This year there seems to be an absolute plethora of styles and looks available although there may be some ‘must-haves’. Over winter the layered look has prevailed and is still very much in vogue going into spring, although it is expected to give way to a simpler and much lighter look as soon as the temperatures soar.
As in recent years expect to show off your legs - either the bare look with short skirts, leggings combined with longer tops, or for the extremely daring the skimpiest of hot pants. You’ll need the shoes to go with all these looks too, and wedges are expected to be essential footwear this summer. Canvas, slingback, round-toe, open toe; they’re all highly accessible in the high street.
But, like all trends this year’s high street fashions offer only the tools, it is up to you to achieve your own unique look. The secret to looking good is to mix and match, buying a wide range of garments and accessories of varying prices, colours and styles from a range of stores. You can then mix it all up and volia! The real you!
Choice, as always, is massive in this year’s selections. Take jeans for example; flared, straight, boot cut, capri, cut-offs and hot pants are all featuring in the high street - and those are just the tight-fitting variety! Undoubtedly the trendiest items on the high street this season will be high-waisted flares, paying yet more homage to the Starsky and Hutch era. But don’t be tempted unless you can carry it off, and few can, as these jeans tend to make curvy girls look huge and thin girls akin to sticks; so be warned - it takes the right shape to make it in these jeans.
Of course, when it comes to high street fashions you need to stick to the rules when it comes to choosing clothes appropriate to your body type. And always trust your inner-self when it comes to deciding whether you look too old to wear a particular item; if you think you are then you probably are!
But, on the other hand DO dress out of your age group if you think it works! If you’ve still got fantastic legs at 55 then show them off in a suitable mini and don’t feel you have to stash them away in conservative trousers! Alternatively, if you are 25 and fancy a change then feel free to pull on the trouser suit! The most important thing when it comes to fashion is to wear what looks best on you!
About the Author:
Elisha Burberry is a freelance writer who loves her job and the occasional glass of red wine.

SUMMER FASHION

2007-09-18T23:34:00.001-07:00

What to wear this summer? It's a recurrent question that gives no rest to stylish people and fashion freaks. Unlike previous year when women’s wardrobe was full of elegant feminine and flattering contours outfits, this year women’s outfits are proceeding towards honest and simple approach to dressing.
If you have not updated your wardrobe yet, its perfect time to start putting away the heavy, drab winter clothes and dress up yourself in light and bright colors. So what are you thinking for? This summer comes with colors like white, grey, navy blue; browns are reassured and warm with violet tones.
Themes for this summer:
Active sports wear, dancer’s workout clothes are the inspiration behind “Get Sporty collection”. Marni’s close-fitting jackets were teamed with cropped and stripped leggings. • The designers like Thakoon, Rodarte, and Alexander McQueen seems to be inspired with beauty of roses and peonies this summer. The romantic vision is blossomed with lots of structured dresses, tops and gowns. • Eighteen century’s influence is coming back in 2007 with a punk feel. The feminine silhouette is getting large with eminent volume and layers with a couture-like aristocratic and royal appeal. • Swingy shape dresses and skirts are comfortable to wear in summer. The inspiration came from Yves Saint Laurent’s collection of 1958. • Golden and silver looks have gained importance in this season. This season group of fashion designers has not forgotten to use golden, pewter, and coppers colors in slinky dresses, coats, bags and shoes. • With some of these dresses in summer collection you need not wear jewelry as they come with embedded jewelry. Like, an outfit with jeweled neckline avoids the need to wear a necklace.
Colors:
Summer has come up with light colors. White is key color of the season. Colors like grey, navy blue have been used to give glamorous look. Bright colors have come back with red-orange and fuchsia. Cool, neutrals will always find a place in your summer wardrobes.
Outfits:
The baggy look dresses had been welcomed this season. I feel big, loose-fitting separates can be worn by both slim and slightly overweight women. You can put on perhaps a hat or chunky bracelet with your dress. I hope you will like it. This summer the length of blouses are little bit longer. It is an inch below navel and covers half of hips. For your second or third date you may wear black and white print border shift dress. The black and white combination doesn’t look contrast but it moved softer and transformed into shady grey and off white. How about trying the combination of white embroidery on black background or vice versa? Isn’t it great for dinner with your client!
In these sunny days black string bikini is funky and easy to wear. These simple sun dresses are perfect for the soaring temperatures without sacrificing style and fashion. To accessorize your outfits, try an over-sized bag with lots of details or bold, bug-eyed sunglasses. These trendy extras are sure to make a fashion statement. So it’s time to brush up your cabinet with some sporty, romantic, and sophisticated dresses. Have fun, be creative, and shine this season with these great outfits.

KIDS FASHION

2007-09-18T23:32:00.001-07:00

Gone are the days when your kid would like to wear anything that you ask him/her to wear. And if you thought colorful and showy dresses are the only things that look best on them, hang on there, for times have changed, and so have kids’ fashion. Today, children are more conscious and choosy than what they used to be a decade before. Keeping that in mind, today’s clothiers have given kids’ fashion a big leap from what it was in the 80s and 90s.
The little boys and girls want their dresses to define themselves now. And they want to look fashionable always, just like their daddies and mommies or aunts and uncles. So every season you will find a new range added to the children’s clothing line with most designer brands. Well, that brings us to the discussion: designer wear is not a monopoly of the old and well-heeled anymore. Even the kids can flaunt a Sonia Rykiel or Magil with the same élan as the tight-laced honcho of a software company.
It’s good news indeed! Your favorite designer brands are now thinking wide and accommodating a lot in their children’s line to give the perfect gear to those teeny-weeny beings. And with that, you shouldn’t be surprised if you are stopped in the crowd to answer questions like “Your girl looks like an angel. Where did you buy her dress from?” Best part is, it’s not just the brand. Kids’ designer wear speaks of quality too. A lot of head-work goes into making these dresses practical than only attractive.
Your children may not be particularly gentle or shy. In fact, chances are that they would run the neighborhood wild with their ‘presence’. Ordinary clothing often wears out before they are even old enough to replace. The designer brands make the kids’ dresses chic, comfortable and hardwearing. From christening gowns to party wear to funky everyday wear like reversible tops and jackets, fun appliqués and fine embroidery – the brands have all kinds of gear to pamper the little ones and make them stand out in the crowd. For instance, Sonia Rykiel Enfant, the kids’ line of Sonia Rykiel, has an exclusive range of children’s fashion wear that are superbly styled and perfectly stitched to allow comfort and distinction to the child.
In today’s busy world, if you don’t have the time to run to the stores and hunt out the best for your dear son or daughter, things are made simple here too! You can just pick a dress online sitting at your desk at work. Several online stores offer your favorite designer brands like Pampolina today. Now, isn’t that reason enough to get a little choosier? Online shops and boutiques showcasing kids’ fashion gear is your answer. So say no to the ‘ordinariness’ of yesterday and welcome the ‘change’!

HOTTEST FASHION

2007-09-18T23:30:00.001-07:00

Spring: A time for showers, flowers, bunnies and cleaning. Oh yeah, and fashion too. Hopefully by now you’ve done that “out with old” part of the spring routine and are keeping your eyes open for pieces to bring some “in with the new.” Whether you’re looking for something to help combat melancholy when the showers kick in or are gearing up for the sunny months ahead, we’ve got you covered with these fashion finds.
Mediterranean vacation
So your two-bedroom “starter condo” in the suburbs doesn’t exactly resemble a cliff-side home on Santorini. Shame. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t dress like you’re on a Grecian getaway. A wide-leg white or navy pant instantly channels the nautical look. Add an exotic print scarf to the ensemble and you’re ready for the yacht.
Sweet sneakers
These stylish skimmers are the perfect solution to your weekend shoe crisis. You want to look somewhat cute when you run your errands (who knows who may be standing behind you in the Petco line?), but you don’t want to wear anything that might remind you of work. They’re also a fabulous companion for jeans or shorts and you can even pull a Mischa à la Keds ads and wear them with a casual dress.
Happy umbrellas
Nothing says “Happy Spring” like your black umbrella, right? Wrong. So maybe it is dark outside, but you don’t have to reflect the meteorological forecast in your spring fashion choices. Ordinary ‘brellas just got a little more extraordinary this season with polka dots, stripes and bold prints. Just make sure you don’t try to be too matchy-matchy with identical wellies.
Yellow…everything
Adding a yellow dress, flat or even a yellow bag to your wardrobe is a must for spring. This pale number is a muted version, but your yellow doesn’t have to be mellow. Both bold Crayola yellow and softened hues will surely brighten up your look.
Fresh floral
Springtime is synonymous with florals. Easter lilies, May flowers, cherry blossoms—all inspiration for this flirty, organic trend. This year, however, florals are blossoming and becoming, well, more than just your typical garden party print. Opt for a blouse with rose embellishments or take a cue from this Diane Von Furstenberg number and choose a dress with funky, more unexpected spring colors.
Eyelet
Nothing rings in spring like a crisp white dress with eyelet details. It’s perfect for a dinner on the terrace, Sunday brunch or even for a more casual cover-up at the beach. It also can be colorful, so don’t shy away from a tropical hue. But do wear a slip if your dress is completely eyelet, unless it’s a cover-up of course.

Cropped jackets
In the next couple months hems will start getting a little shorter and bikinis will make a debut, but don’t ditch jackets just yet; April is linked with showers for a reason. These cropped versions are ideal for April-through-June climate control with slight coverage—but nothing that’ll make you toasty. Their shapes can be boxy or demure and buttons or embellishments (like the rosette on this Marc by Marc Jacobs crop) really liven it up.
Geometric goddess
Get into the techno age by trying a geometric print dress with ethereal elements of spring. The graphic shapes in this Twinkle by Wenlan piece make it edgy and the granulation adds a digital detail. But don’t break into the robot just yet. The softer colors and flowy shape keep it from being too Matrix. Sorry Keanu. This one’s not for you.
Even if it’s not sunny outside you can at least add some of these bright pieces to your wardrobe—because nothing gets you out of that post-winter funk like springtime shopping. So go on, spring for some of these “in with the new” fashion trends.

WEDDING GOWNS

2007-09-18T23:26:00.001-07:00

SPRING CLOTHES

2007-09-18T23:25:00.001-07:00

Are you looking for something fresh to wear this spring?
While there’s an array of new spring looks, there’s also a sense of the ordinary in many department store spring collections that just doesn’t appeal to everybody.
Maybe your closet is filled already with flower print dresses, khaki pants and tank tops in every color. What you need is a breath of fresh air. Here’s three totally updated looks for you to try out.
1) 80s Wrinkled Cool
1980s fashion style is back in a big way. Not everything 80s is punk or zippered to the hilt. You can have a totally laid back look by finding relaxed wrinkled pieces that are easy to care for, as well as, easy going.
The Cotton Wrinkled Blouse – traditional cotton blouses aren’t supposed to be wrinkled, but this look allows you to wear a comfortable blouse with built-in wrinkles. Just throw it on and go.The Relaxed Wrinkled Skirt – you can go with the long bohemian skirt here, but there are also short skirt styles with more of a tailored look that will work great.
The Relaxed 80s Motorcycle Style Jacket – look for a jacket with an elastic or cinched waist and multiple zippers on the front. Material will be light cotton or polyester blend. Comes in vibrant colors.
Wrinkled Trench Coat – the same classic style in a very relaxed cotton or twill fabric. You’ll look great while remaining casually comfortable.
Two Toned Silk Wrinkled Scarf – wrap this breezy accent scarf around your neck or waist and add a little pizzazz to your casual chic outfit. Two colors are better than one.
Chunky Platform Shoes with Ruffles – keep the carefree casual look going from head to toe with the perfect pair of casual chic shoes. Look for wooden platform shoes topped by ruffled canvas or leather uppers.
Slouchy Handbag – finish this look off with a big old slouchy leather or canvas bag.
2) 20s Jazz Age Casual
Recreate the clean, crisp look of the 1920s country club set.
Sleeveless Pintuck Pleated Dress – this is a nice basic that you can wear to the office or a casual get together. If you can’t find a pintuck pleated style, then any comfortable, sleeveless, free flowing style dress, in a solid color, will do the trick. Length should be just below the knee. Colors: white, black, navy or tan.
White Pleated Skirt – kind of old, yet so fresh and modern too. This skirt should drape below the knee.
Beaded Sleeveless Top – Beaded ornamentation on women’s clothing was all the rage in the 1920s so this will look great with a pleated skirt.
White Cable Knit Belted Cardigan – this cardigan style is the perfect piece to top off your 20s look. Great looking in solid white or with a dark colored trim.
High Heel Oxford Pump – the oxford never goes out of style. A higher heel adds modern flair to an old favorite.
Marcasite Jewelry – Look for marcasite jewelry pieces to accent this great 1920s look.
3) New Color Combination: Pale Yellow and Gray
Fresh and unexpected color combinations can brighten up old neutral pieces – in this case the neutral is gray.
Look for the pale yellow and gray combination in: dresses, tops, shoes and purses. Buy some yellow pieces and do your own experimenting – it’s fun.

JEANS

2007-09-18T23:22:00.001-07:00

Once upon a time, designer jeans were worn as status symbols. Joe, Avi and Ralph Nakash, popularly known as the Nakash brothers, kicked off the “fashionable” designer jeans trend as long ago as 1978. Their designer jeans brand, Jordache, sky-rocketed in popularity within a short period of time.
Designer jeans are often quite expensive. However, they represent a good value because they offer an excellent fit, comfort and quality fabric. Besides, wearing branded designer jeans makes a statement about your personality and taste.
You will find that designer jeans come in many shapes and sizes. You will also find designer jeans in all possible colors and styles. You will need to be very careful when choosing a specific brand of designer jeans. Your choice should not only look good, but also be comfortable. You shouldn’t sacrifice comfort for fashion, although this is quite common among teens.
Brand Choice
Your body is unique; a pair of designer jeans that look good on your friend or favorite celebrity may not look good on you at all. You will have to search for the pair of designer jeans that complements your body shape and highlights your finest features. Fortunately, there are many brands of excellent designer jeans in the market that serve to make your search easier. Designer jeans brands like True Religion Jeans, Seven Jeans, Red Monkey, Rock and Republic, are good starter-jeans. As with everything else, you will also need to pay some attention to the budget you have made for your pair of designer jeans. It is lovely to buy and wear designer jeans; however, it is better if you can buy a pair without burning a hole in your pocket.

For Looks
The color and style of your designer jeans affects the impact of your overall wardrobe. Give it due importance when you make your personal designer jeans choice. Some people love tinted jeans such as khaki or rose-colored offerings, while others will prefer the pure denim color. Cloth pattern can be even more important than color. You have a wide selection of designer jeans patterns to choose from:
Crosshatch: This is denim with cross-stitch pattern woven into the fabric.
Frayed: As the name indicates, this style of designer jeans is frayed in different places, for example, around the pockets, at the leg bottom and at the waistline.
Distressed: these pairs of designer jeans are made to look worn out and beat up by opening the hems and allowing them to hang loose. • Whiskered: this name is derived by the impression the designer jeans give when worn – creases that resemble a cat’s whiskers surround the fly area.
For Feel
Again, depending upon your body shape and your choice of style, you can choose between designer jeans that hug the body or those that will hang loose. Stretch denim is a style of jeans that have come into its own, as they have proven more comfortable than many other styles. As the name suggests, stretch jeans are made of denim material that has been woven with spandex so that they stretch and conform to your body when you move. Unlike regular jeans, they don’t tighten as you stoop or sit. Regardless of the type of designer jeans that you decide on, remember to pick the style that fits your personality, not what you think would make you appear more trendy or popular.

BLACK DRESSESS

2007-09-18T23:19:00.000-07:00

Spring is here, Ladies, and the dress is back. Sexy, sassy little numbers pranced down Paris runways and right onto the racks of your local clothing stores. Their colors are bright, their patterns are geometric and they are short, short, short to show lots of long, lean leg. If you're young and have the legs for them - go for it! If not, there is still one dress that every woman, no matter her size, no matter her age, can wear to perfection - the Little Black Dress. I know, I know, I can hear you all groaning out there, but bear with me and I will reveal some of the secrets of the LBD that might just make you re-think this classic essential of the well-dressed woman's wardrobe.
No discussion of the Little Black Dress can begin without at least a quick genuflection in the direction of the tiny Frenchwoman who invented it, Gabrielle Chanel (1883-1971). Known to the world as Coco, those who worked for her during her lifetime and who work for the house of Chanel to this day refer to her in hushed tones as "Madame," in case she is listening. She started by designing hats, but soon launched her own clothing line inspired by the clothes worn by her wealthy lovers, her first financial backers. She adored the simple, clean lines and expert tailoring of men's garments, and had begun to adapt them to suit her slight frame. As a result, she virtually invented the concept of casual chic, for which every woman owes her a debt of gratitude. And the Little Black Dress would be the final metamorphosis of the black school dress uniform and white collar that she had worn as a student in a Catholic orphanage.
"So, what makes the LBD so special?" you ask, and I am so glad you did. The LBD is so special because, quite simply, it goes everywhere and does everything.
On Friday morning, It goes off to the office in a tweed jacket, cranberry scarf and black d'Orsay pumps; on Saturday afternoon it goes to check out the latest Dada retrospective at the Musée Beaubourg in a denim jacket and red kitten heels; on Saturday evening it meets that very special someone for a romantic dinner at Le Train Bleu in a creamy lace bolero and python pumps; and on Sunday afternoon it takes the train from Paris to the country for lunch with tante Germaine in a cashmere cardigan with antique buttons and grey suede T-straps.
"O.K. You've convinced me. So, how do I choose the perfect LBD for me?" you ask, and I am so glad you did. Beyond the fact that the classic LBD is sleeveless, unembellished and beautifully tailored, the secrets to choosing your perfect LBD can be broken down into the following three categories.
(1) The Sheath v. the Shift
The sheath dress is designed to show off the curves of a well-proportioned (bust to hip ratio) small-waisted woman by lightly skimming over those curves. It's your body proportion that counts here, Ladies, not your size. It should never be too tight. As my Mother always says, a dress should be tight enough to show you are a woman but loose enough to show you are a lady. If you are larger on top (bust) or on the bottom (hip and/or thigh area), choose a sheath with an A-line skirt which floats out over the hip and thigh area, thereby balancing a larger top or camouflaging a larger bottom. In general, the A-line is the most flattering and forgiving skirt shape a woman can wear, and it looks good on everyone.
The shift dress hangs perfectly straight from the shoulders and works well for women who do not have a well-defined waist or who want to conceal a tummy. The shift dress can also have a slight A-line flair to the skirt.
(2) Neckline and Shoulders
A small, rounded neckline is the classic LBD neckline.
If you have narrow shoulders, a Bateau, or boat, neck is more flattering and the shoulder seam should fall at or slightly beyond your natural shoulder line, thereby creating the illusion of wider shoulders. A small, capped sleeve can also widen shoulders.
If you have wider shoulders and well-toned arms (Lucky You!) show them off with a shoulder seam that stops at the edge of your collar bone, inside your natural shoulder line, or go for a halter neck.

If your face and/or body are round, a square neckline adds a touch of angled geometry to your silhouette and is very elegant. By the same token, a rounded neckline softens an angular face and/or body.
If you are large busted, a V-neck will help to break up the bust line by showing more skin and opening up the décolletage area. The amount of cleavage you show is up to you!
(3) Hem Line
Madame lived to see the miniskirt of the 60's era and never missed an opportunity to voice her displeasure at the display of what she considered the least attractive part of a woman's body - her knees. Mercifully, she did not live to see the return of the miniskirt this season. While I do not share Madame's particular phobia, I do think that the perfect hem length for the LBD is mid-knee or one inch below the knee.
As to the perfect way to accessorize the LBD, I prefer the classic, clean lines of a crystal flute filled with Veuve Clicquot champagne.
(4) Color
And now you know everything you need to know about choosing the perfect Little Black Dress. Well, not quite. There is still one last secret to be revealed.
Since it is as much a concept as it is a dress, the Little Black Dress need not, in fact, be black at all. "Quelle horreur! What is she saying??" you are thinking. When is a Little Black Dress not a Little Black Dress? When it fits like a Little Black Dress but is in a neutral color that might just be more flattering to your skin tone. While black is definitely slimming, it is not a color which looks good on everyone and can be harsh, particularly as we age. So, why not choose a deep-hued neutral tone that might better complement your coloring - chocolate brown, warm navy or slate grey!! I own four LBDs - two are black, one is navy blue and the other is a deep hunter green, which does wonders for my red hair and ivory skin.
And now you do know everything you need to know about choosing the perfect Little Black Dress, although let's just keep that last secret between us in case Madame is listening. No doubt she is having enough trouble this season coping with the return of ladies' knees.

CONTACT

2007-09-18T02:42:00.004-07:00

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FASHION MIDNIGHT

2007-09-18T02:42:00.003-07:00

FASHION HOME

2007-09-18T02:42:00.001-07:00

FASHION OFFERS

2007-09-18T02:40:00.000-07:00

FOURM

2007-09-18T02:39:00.002-07:00

FASHION TRENDS

2007-09-18T02:39:00.001-07:00

Back to school is a stressful time for any teenager. Especially when it comes to choosing the right outfits to wear. It seems there's always a new look every fall for the back-to-school experience. Listening to some teenagers and you'd get the impression that choosing the right clothes to wear is a full time job. For those of us, not in school anymore, it isn't as difficult when we can just steal their ideas.
This article works much like the fashion magazines attempts to help their reader's "steal a look". Here are some of the most popular fashion trends going on within the teenage population this time of the year. Now you can use their look for your own wardrobe.
Layered shirts - Take notice of how your kids dress this fall. Often, they'll have a favorit summer shirt they just don't want to stop wear. The solution to that is layering it with a long-sleeve T-shirt underneath.
For Adults: No one said the look won't work for you. Layer a long-sleeve piece like a Henley or turtleneck with a t shirt. Try and have match it up in contrasting colors like dark blue with a black or monochromatic like gray on gray. This look works well for the office when you pair it with a sleek knit top under a swing jacket that has either short or bracelet-length sleeves.
Color - They're kids. They are supposed to wear bright colors. It's ok for your kids to dress in bright colors from head-to-toe. Just a touch of bright color adds like to almost any piece of clothing from jeans to shoes.
For Adults: No one said that you can't wear colors because you're an adult. After all, you used to a kid, right? Try adding a pink knit scarf to a white sweater. The combination of red shoes with black pants is becoming more popular and trendier. Mix in some purple along with gray or electric blue with black.
Headwear - Ever since they were little girls, kids love trying on things like hats and headbands. There is always something about wearing mommy's hats that made them feel all grownup.
For Adults: Now that you are grownup, there is no reason to feel grownup but you can still try to feel like that little girl again. Stay away from newsboy caps or super-tight knit caps. They are more for a teenager. Instead, try wearing something more mature in hats with a structured style such as wide-brimmed wool felt hat or maybe a men's style fedora. With the cooler months approaching, a softly fitted knit cap can work well too.
Flats - The latest craze is the skinny jeans worn with a pair of flats. You may not like the look for yourself but teenagers do. A good pair of flats also looks great and works with other types of outfits other than skinny jeans.
For Adults: While you may not think you can pull off the skinny jeans look, it doesn't mean you can't enjoy a pair of flats. Try some ballet flats with a shiny finish or a cute cut-out shape. Try wearing a pair with a wide-leg pants, knit dresses, or knee-length skirts. If you plan on wearing shorter dresses and skirts get the long-legged look of heels by wearing monochromatic tights to go along with your flats.
Short Dresses - Let the kids wear those baby doll dresses and micro-minis. It's not that you don't have the body for them. It's just that you will look silly wearing something so young.
For Adults: Wear a straight, waist-less dress that skims your body. A dress like this gives you a more of a flattering and modern appearance. It doesn't need to be too short to make it work either. Just as long as it is above the knee. Have it made of fabrics of drape knits, velvet, and jersey.

WOMEN'S FASHION

2007-09-18T02:38:00.000-07:00

Spring is in the air. Can summer be far behind? But, what to wear, what to wear? Do not be alarmed. There are oodles of fantastic trends this spring and summer, a veritable tidal wave, when it comes to fashion. No matter what your taste, you are sure to find the perfect trend this year.
Spring is busting out all over with everything from Chanel's demure short little black designer dresses to Oscar de la Renta's sophisticated trailing silver gowns. These two designers thrust forward two different approaches to this season's hot outfits. Chanel has the retro sixties and seventies look; Oscar de La Renta is ethereal, romantic, heralding an age of silver. In fact, silver is an absolute must for this season.
Retro-look
The Retro or vintage look is seen in the style, cut and pattern of clothing. The A-line mini-dress, the geometric prints and contrasting colors, particularly black and white, hail back to another time. The shift dresses and shirt dresses, the empire waist lines and crop jackets are all part of this retro look.
The lengths of this look vary in accordance with the style. Knee length is common, seeming to dominate an otherwise sixty or seventy style. This makes it easier for women of a certain age. It is also adaptable to work and play.
Classic and romantic: the sophisticated look
The classic cut and flow of gowns, the sophisticated silver gowns of La Renta and the classic elegance of Marc Jacob's tailored sophistication, are aspects of the softer glow of spring and summer fashions. You find this reflected in many ways. Sleeves have shaken off their tight style in favor of the puff. They billow out from the shoulder and flutter down the arm. Sleeves are light, fluffy and flirty with lace insets. Ruffled blouses join in this hymn to fragility and femininity. Oscar de La Ranta pairs a ruffled white blouse with piping with a tiered grey skirt- very feminine look. The blouse can be alternated with something less sophisticated to wear everyday.
Florals, prints, polka dots and stripes
The one-piece print dress is this year's statement on Spring. Arrangements of black and white vie with polka dots, stripes and floral prints. You can look to prints to establishing the way into summer, as well. Floral prints, large and small, are particularly popular. Oscar de la Renta showed off a beautiful poppy print. There are also prints in roses, daisies and tulips. You can wear a garden of earthly delights suitable for casual eveningwear as well as for daily activities.
Missoni featured a strapless polka dot dress, Chloe preferred mixed fabrics. Anna Sui opted for cotton and silk voile creations, Gucci a green muslin patch print and Ralph Lauren a cotton paisley. As you can see, this spring and summer, designers offer a variety of material to choose from with an emphasis on summer cotton and soft chiffon.
The one-piece dress
Behind all these styles is a one-piece dress. Whether in black or black or white; paisley, geometric or solid, floral print or soft grey, the one-piece dress is back. It can be triangular, A-line, or trapeze in shape. It is cotton or chiffon or muslin. It is called a shift dress or shirt-dress. The focus is still on a dress.
Sportswear
The sporty look is back. It is gaining ground. For fall, the look is more prominent but for now it is making its presence felt in "little" ways. Short-shorts and one-piece safari-like short outfits are hot. While dresses are mainly knee length, shorts are high on the thigh. Denim is retreating, but sporty-type material is going mainstream. Simple t-shirts and polo shirts from designer Leon Levin are being tailored to suit the body well.
So, there you have it. What's hot and what's sophisticated. The designers have spoken, offering a wide selection for us to choose from. It is now up to you to decide what works best for you.