Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Fashion Review of the Last Decade




The decade has just ended and we are once again starting out on a clean slate. Nothing much or drastic has changed since the new decade has just begun and we are still in the first few weeks of the brand new year. However, it is fitting to go through the last decade's trends in fashion to see if these will recur or will we have a totally fresh approach in the world of fashion.

The last decade's fashion saw the emergence of recycling the trends prior to it most notably from the 90's. During the first few years, 90's fashion was evident. However, at this time, it was more refined. Prevalent in this year as well was stepping away from the unisex style of dressing. The more "woman approach" was now being embraced as skirts and dresses become more in-style.

The youth played an important role in fashion during these times specifically in the early 2000's. Emo and hip-hop style were the in-thing mainly because of the rise of emo bands and new hip-hop artists. These artists have influenced the way people dress and live. Hoodies and sweatpants were among the most popular garments used last decade. You see Eminem wear these types of clothing and other hip-hop moguls as well. Baggy pants and lose denims were also common and are not only worn by men but by women as well. This type of style however was again based on the 90's fashion.

Emo style, on the other hand, is associated with wristbands and spiky hair. Sometimes, this is accompanied with dark eye shadows and black fit shirts. Blink 182, and Green Day were among those who influenced the youth for this fashion.

By the late 2000's, the more urban style fashion was introduced. Women and men were encouraged to be more feminine and manly in terms of choosing the style of clothes. Sophisticated garments such us black pants and black dress shoes became popular. There was quite a shift of fashion style in hip-hop when Kanye West introduced the lesser youthful hip-hop style. Loose shirt and pants were now replaced for a more manly look. Power suits were also worn at this time. Usually, these kinds of clothing are used only during formal occasions. Yet, these became popular and are widely used even during casual events.

If saggy clothes were fashionable in the 90's, during this decade, tight jeans became widespread. Designer jeans were more popular at this time. Of course, what is fashion without the accessories? During the last decade, fashion was also associated with designer glasses, both for men and women. The "geek look" was something people have wanted to portray. For guys, in particular, baseball caps were extremely popular for teenagers. However, these kinds of caps cannot be bent so they stay as they are.

For sure there were still a lot of fashion trends that were rampant during these years. These are just a few examples and are the ones that became such a widespread phenomena that almost everyone was into it. As we get into another decade, we ask what kind of fashion we are looking at. Will we be going back to the trends last decade or even three of four decades back? Or will we be embracing a new craze? One thing is for sure, whatever is in fashion now, and we are sure to follow it.

How You Can Select a Fashion Style For a Hot New Look In 7 Days




Fashion is a manner of communicating your inner self through clothes. Apparel frequently symbolizes a specific style or era and each year fashion designers attempt to contribute and produce new trends that can depict the time of the present year and hopefully create a milestone in history forever.

There are numerous fashion styles through, which we remember a time period. Those fashions constantly live on since they were highly successful and frequently in a classic way which perpetually was and will be everlasting.

There are numerous of us who desire to put on what is in fashion at any expense; not only in the current year but every single season: spring, summer, fall and winter. Nevertheless, there is one matter we do not hesitate to look at, which the most significant affair in fashion is: does the fashion style accommodate us.

How Do You Recognize If a Fashion Style Becomes You?

It is really uncomplicated; clothes are normally fashioned with varied types of silhouettes in mind and despite the fact that we are no fashion models from the runway, we must contemplate the following prior to selecting a fashion style: height, weight and skin tone. All things in fashion is chosen to match and put forward a individual's quality characteristics forward and in order for you to put yours, you essentially need to be conscious of your body and skin tone.

Your height and weight will decide whether you should pick out fashion styles that apply short or long skirts or dresses as each one can accentuate a aspect of your body. Your skin tone will define what color clothes you should select and that as well is instantly connected to fashion styles as some designers make particular colors only.

It is significant you be your own judge and friend in order that you will be capable of picking out the most effective fashion styles that will bring out your best characteristics and hence, give you your money's worth. What benefit is there to wear something that is the newest fashion yet does not accommodate your style and identity?

Should You Break with Fashion Rules?

Fashion styles should exclusively be picked for your tastes since you appear good in them and not because they are in style at the moment. Also always be mindful that if you cannot have on the in style fashion design since you find it absurd, you can always wear something classic as it is perpetually in style and it accommodates everybody without exception. If you do not recognize what colors to wear for a crucial fashion meeting, always stick with black and white as they are classic and constantly in style.

How Women Can Dress in Urban Style Fashion




When women dress in urban clothing, it can be a reflection of their will to put up a fight for higher standards of living and success. Urban fashion is usually defined as relaxed, functional, and comfortable. If you're a woman on-the-go, this is a good choice of fashion for you. Just because it's described as comfortable doesn't mean that it's not going to make you look good, because that's not true. You can look great in urban wear and your accessories will make the most of your urban look. If want to fit in the big city, then you need to urbanize your wear.

In order to really embrace the fashion of urban wear, you need to understand clearly what makes a certain look urban.

*Your look needs to be functional
*Your look needs to be a little on the ethnic side.
*Your look needs to be bold and tell a little something about who you really are.
*Your look needs to be edgy.

There are two different types of urban clothing for women to wear. There is weekend wear and business clothing. Weekend wear can be anything from evening gowns to skinny jeans with furry boots and a nice comfy sweater. Business wear can be clothing like maxi-dresses, power suits and vintage ensembles.

When wearing urban wear, you shouldn't be afraid to mix and match elements that typically would not go together. Keep in mind that bold is beautiful, the bolder you make a combination, the better it'll be.

The basics of urban wear are:
*Jewelry that catches the crowd
*Skinny Jeans
*Wool coats
*Ankle or knee length boots
*Thin skirts
*Corduroy Blazers
*Bold belts
*Flats
*Black cardigans

With urban wear you can easily transform your mundane business suit into something to wear to a club in just a few easy steps. Add a headband and some makeup that will make you sparkle. Then trade in your pumps for some boots and you have yourself a great outfit to wear to the club. You don't have to be half naked in order to look good for a night out on the town. You want to show that you are smart, sensible and bold. You don't need to be dressed in skimpy lace and short shorts to get attention.

Like I mentioned earlier, accessories are very important to urban fashion. The best jewelry to wear are made with precious stones, many different metals and crystals and pearls. Wearing urban jewelry isn't wearing all of your grandmothers old jewery. When you wear urban jewelry you should be trying to send a message saying that you are a bold woman. Large jewel encrusted necklaces and pendants to gold hoop earrings are the bold urban fashion statements to make everyone look your way.

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Unique Snowboarding Style & Fashion




If you have gone skiing or snowboarding, or just seen snowboarders on the television, then you will know that snowboarders carry a distinct style in their appearance. Even though snowboarders have to wear heavy and sometimes unflattering apparel they always manage to look fashionable and this is because of their distinct uniqueness.

Let's take a look at clothing you may expect to find a snowboarder wearing:

The first thought that snowboarders worry about before they start following any fashion trends is putting on a base layer that is effective in the retention of heat. All snowboarders will wear a base layer. The base layer will almost always consist of thermal wear, which covers every part of your body apart from you head. So you will need a thermal shirt, underwear and even socks. Thermal wear helps you stay warm when on the slopes, so it doesn't really matter what brand or style it is.

Snowboarders will then have a second layer, usually consisting of a fleece or a jacket, thermal pants and boots. Some riders opt for flashy colors so you stand out on the slopes. Others go with a more natural look. If you want to see what's hot right now, just check out what the top riders are wearing: guys like Shaun White and Travis Rice. I guarantee they won't be wearing one of those funny joker hats!

Now snowboarders have the basics on they can get a bit more stylish with the top layer of clothing. So, on come the beanie hats, with some stylish goggles, a puffer jacket, gloves and last but not least your snowboard with its often funky designs.

With a seemingly endless amount of new designers around and the ever increasing popularity of snowboarding, fashion and sports are colliding, leaving the half pipe looking more like a catwalk every week!

Military-Style Fashion for Fall


Military-feminine. If you can get your hands on it, please do! Plan to wear your boots and look Eastern bloc mysterious undercover agent unbelievable. Blue-grey and steely colors form smart top-coats with faux fur trim. Narrow army coats sport distinct buttons and epaulettes. Soften your hard-as-nails look with a hint of lace cami that peeks out from underneath the lapel of your trench, or a surprisingly gorgeous fabric pencil line, to the knee or just above, slits at the side or back.

Runways this year have if fact seen styles patterned after every uniform era imaginable . . . from beautiful gold borders gracing garments with military influence to coats and jackets reminiscent of Napoleon's style. Buttons are key, large and small, as they embellish the rich look and cut of these fashions.

Now, just a few more tips to look military chic!

1. Wear your military style jacket or coat overtop your favorite jeans and with a lightweight or sexy top underneath. You can keep your clothes simpler due to heavy embroiders, embellishments, epaulettes, ornaments and the like (especially so if you're lucky enough to find a really fabulous overcoat or jacket.)

2. Remember, the look you're going for is not soldier camo (which to some onlookers may be in poor taste - given the times.) You are aiming for a classic officer class look, cooler and Russian romantic. Fur trims are keys, shiny brass anything, dressings up on the shoulders, and don't forget signature long shiny leather boot-wear.

3. Keep the overall feel of the outfit hard (with a bit of mystery of course!) How? Lots of black, very fitted, waist-accentuating and buttoned-up chic. If the jacket is long, opt for a belt if possible.

4. Black, more black, and if not black, somber and foreboding color is key.

5. As mentioned above, boot-wear is essential, so keep an eye out for the best this season. Try a pair of lower, more rounded-toe boots. Keep an eye on your hemline and your boot height when cinching that outfit together. You want to opt for the most flattering choices for your calves, no matter what's most stylish!

6. Since your military style jacket is not inherently feminine.....try it along with your favorite skinny pants (if you are into "skinnies") or try a flowing skirt. This is the way to go if you want a softer look.

7. Yes, you can wear your flats with a military-style jacket.

8. Is your military style jacket or coat missing the bling? Not to worry! Get creative and populate those empty spots and lapels with your own accessories. If your fashion find doesn't have pins, big buttons and the like, try out vintage items, medals, fashion jewelry, and other second-hand items. Get creative, the items don't have to be military-ish. You can also check out your local sewing or craft-goods store to dress up your find with your own custom design.

9. Accessorize to impress. Choose a belt or bag with dictinctive glamour. In tasteful amount, brass studs, buckles, belts. Keep it spy-rific.

Riot Grrrl Style, Fashion and Self-Expression




Riot Grrrl fashion shaped and influenced young women's fashion from the 1990s to the present day. Although there was no "uniform" in this movement, certain tendencies and trends moved from the subculture into the mainstream. This appropriation failed to bleach the politics from the clothing, and its influence continues, unabated, today.

To understand this movement, you have to understand something of its predecessors. The punk movement had some female and feminist voices, including the Mo-Dettes, Blondie, Lydia Lunch and the Runaways. However, the movement was always male-centric, with most women being either groupies (like the much reviled Nancy Spungen) or impresarios (like Anya Phillips).

Female musicians in punk tended to be lead singers, like Debbie Harry and Poly Styrene. This led to the perception that girls couldn't play music, and should act mostly as sex symbols. By the 1990s, young women were fed up with this, and wanted to create music of their own.

The movement arose from the Olympia, Washington, college music scene, as well as other areas of the Pacific Northwest. Antecedents to the movement appeared in San Francisco, Vancouver and other cities. Kat Bjelland, of Babes in Toyland, inspired much of the movement's aesthetic, although she never directly participated.

The term was coined by Jen Smith, an early member of the band Bratmobile, when she wrote "This summer's going to be a girl riot" to lead singer Allison Wolfe. Later, members of Bratmobile collaborated with Kathleen Hanna and Tobi Vail to create a zine called Riot Grrrl. The name stuck.

The Philosophy of Riot Grrrl

The Riot Grrrl Manifesto emphasized female solidarity, as well as networking with other women and girls to create a female-centric scene. Early zines like "Girl Germs" and "Bikini Kill" dealt with traditionally feminist issues, such as domestic violence, rape and male domination.
Girl Germs zine, 1990s.

Unsurprisingly, for a movement started by people in their early twenties, the philosophy of riot grrrl was enthusiastic and a bit jejune. In early zines, writers like Kathleen Hanna and Allison Wolfe spoke out against racism, sexism and other -isms, with great outrage, if not coherence. Many articles dealt with personal experiences of sexism, as well as explaining what feminism meant to the author.

Part of the movement was against the "anti-sell-out," purer-and-cooler-than-thou atmosphere of punk, and a somewhat similar atmosphere in traditional academic feminism. Although members of the movement claim there was no set of rules, I can find no evidence of politically conservative or libertarian bands in this movement. Rather than rebelling against academic feminism, most members of the movement seemed to accept its dogma, even if individuals differed on details or in private.

This philosophy was later co-opted by the Spice Girls, and watered down into "Girl Power!", a phrase which occasionally showed up (in some form or another) in Riot Grrrl zines.

Revolution Grrrl Style Now!

Many feminists, then as now, want to be judged by their personality, not their appearance. This doesn't mean they walked around naked, or neglected expressing themselves. In point of fact, many third wave feminists rebelled against this aspect of second wave feminism, where looking sexy was seen as a crime. Instead, third wave feminists recognized that sartorial self-expression, like all other forms of self-expression, could be a powerful political weapon.

What did Revolution Grrrl Style Now! look like? Well, it looked like many things. Unlike punks or hippies, riot grrrls co-opted many elements from other subcultures to create their own unique look. As I said earlier, there was no real uniform. Elements of punk, no wave, post-punk heavy metal, grunge, kinderwhore and butch lesbian fashion went into these outfits.

Makeup, if worn, often drew attention to the lips, through bright red or pink lipstick. Heavy makeup was out of fashion throughout the early 90s; most alternative rockers, even goth rockers, went for a more natural, low-maintenance aesthetic.

Kathleen Hanna, lead singer of Bikini Kill, sometimes wore "slutty" clothes, such as Catholic schoolgirl skirts, while writing words on her body like "SLUT" and "INCEST." According to Hanna, this was to drain the words of their negative connotations, as well as to preempt the thoughts of young men looking at the photos.

Grunge music emerged from the same or overlapping scenes in the Pacific Northwest. Some women wore the then-fashionable flannel shirts, and the standard uniform of nineties alternative musicians: large black band t-shirt, black pants and long hair.

Although the originators of kinderwhore fashion were not part of the movement (especially Courtney Love, who hated it), it influenced some members. Early videos of Bikini Kill show the bassist wearing a vintage babydoll dress, complete with a Peter Pan collar. The main difference, as far as I can tell, was that riot grrrl was political, while kinderwhore was more of an artistic and aesthetic movement.

Some young women wore deliberately immature outfits as a way of reclaiming their childhood from sexual abuse or dysfunctional family dynamics.

This article originally appeared in Enjoy Your Style's subcultural section.

Sitcom Style - Fashion Lessons From TV Days Gone By


A lot can be learned about style by watching sitcoms. Have you ever sat down to watch some of your old favorites from years past that are now in syndication? One thing that is immediately apparent is just how dated the shows look and feel.

The reason for this is that these sitcoms capture perfectly the fads and fashions of a particular time in history -- perhaps better than any other medium. Magazines don't often have an accurate reflection of what people are wearing on the streets, on the campus, in the workplace. They are usually a mix of catwalk, advertisement and red carpet designs and have a highly fantastical element to them. Movies do reflect popular culture, but as it can take several years to produce a film, they have a slightly less of-the-moment look and feel. A sitcom, however, reaches its audience within several months of filming. The shows are designed to have an extremely wide appeal, and end up capturing the looks that are the most current. For better or for worse.

While the programs that are currently airing can offer you an insight into what is fashionable in the here-and-now, some significant style lessons are learned by watching an older sitcom, say from twenty years ago. Do the styles that you thought looked fashionable then still look good to you now? Or can you immediately spot the fads that are less than flattering? How about the shows that are only ten years old?

If you are observant, you will notice a key secret about the fashion industry. Fads come and go and look very dated very quickly. Trends last longer than fads, and have a wider impact on the fashion landscape than do fads. But overall silhouettes in fashion take the longest time to change -- sometimes ten years or longer. A perfect example of this is the low-rise bootcut jean. It's gone through several different incarnations since its comeback on the fashion scene ten-plus years ago, but its overall silhouette has remained the same.

So, what are the key take-home points in this lesson?

1) Try to avoid fads. The prevailing wisdom is that by the time the fad has reached the street, it's style life is over. And consider the family photo album: today you may look fashionable, but next year you will look dated.

2) Choose your trends wisely. Just because it's the predominant trend does not mean that it actually looks good, or will have any staying power. Stick mainly with styles and silhouettes that you know are flattering, and incorporate any new trends judiciously. Your image will actually remain current for much longer this way.

3) Periodically update your own image. You don't have to do a complete overhaul every time the fashion winds change, but keep an eye on what looks dated. You don't want to get stuck in the last decade -- or two!

Chic and Attractive London Spring Street Style Fashion




There is no doubt that the high and mighty fashion at London Fashion Week's spring fashion 2013 has spilled over into the streets of the city. Indeed, London street style has all the girls walking the streets, sidewalks, and side streets with the dresses that everyone finds to be stylish and fashionable. Ladies seem to be keeping up with the street style trend as they wear simple yet beautiful attires. With the LFW over, it definitely serves as a springboard to entice classic dressers to come up and wear their versions of London street styles.

Here are some of the London Street styles during the London Fashion Week Spring/Summer of 2013 that will look great in spring of next year:

Bold Prints, Studs, Metals

Streets during the fashion week were littered with women - fashion editors and bloggers, designers, and gawkers - who were brave enough to wade through London streets wearing maxi bold prints. There are straps, series of chain belts, and huge zippers that dominated many women's mix-matched dress ensemble. There were also a lot of precious stones and minerals that were in play such as gold and gold plated accessories, and studs in Balenciaga bags, among many others. Others on the street were happy to display their color block dressed with transparent thick-plastic shoulder bags securely tucked in their arms.

Polka Dots

With the London Fashion week filled with shows that flaunted patterned and printed designs, one of the most sought after will definitely be polka dots this coming season. Polka dots will be a dominating pattern to be found on street style dresses next year. The dots will be presented in various sizes and colors, in any attempt to prevent the lady wearer from becoming fashion wallpaper. In fact, with multi-sized, multi-colored, polka-dotted blouse or skirt, any woman is sure to be head turner.

Peplum

Peplum is one design that can be seen just about everywhere and the wearer will look great on it. Women will definitely have a great time walking down the streets and inner streets of London donning stylish pencil skirts with peplum. This apparel goes well even with just a simple blouse and a pair of high heels.

Put simply, when it comes to street style London fashion 2013, nobody will present it better than the average London girl on the streets. She is the chicest and meanest when it comes to street style. And with all of the spring street fashion that's available, this gives everyone the chance to wear and strut them around along the streets and sidewalks come spring time.

These are the best roundup of spring street style fashion that women can refer to especially if they are having a "fashion sense block" at any day. With spring time just a few months away, all should look forward to the layering and vintage or classic dress styles that street style lovers will surely love the use and wear.

The author is an experienced fashion blogger with many years in the fashion industry. She is a regular guest writer for many top blogs and websites as well as local and national print publications. Additionally, she specializes in reviewing some of today's hottest trends in fashion accessories and clothing. Follow Clarissa Seaton on Google+.

How to Achieve Street-Style Fashion




Couture fashion and runways are still the epitome of glamour and style in today's industry. However, diversified markets, multi-cultural expressions and identities have opened up a new urban style that we now call street fashion. With many women and men unable to purchase expensive and branded clothing, reinventing and recreating a whole new style from affordable pieces and vintage finds have led to a trend made global through social networking and fashion blogs.

Everyone now has a chance to express his or her own style through blogs like Tumblr and style websites like Lookbook. Photography and photo editing skills have also made styles more interesting to capture and share to others. If you want to express yourself in street-style fashion, here are some pointers you can keep in mind.

Try Out Time-Tested Style Formulas

Classic looks never go out in style. With street fashion simply reflecting youth subcultures, you can easily pull off classic looks and throw in a bit of attitude to make it more convincing. One example of time-tested styles is the hippie flower power look with common pieces like denim, loose shirts, long hair and head bands. You can glam up this look with vintage pieces like sunglasses and great long hair. Another example is the punk fashion defined by Mohican hairstyle, ripped clothing, leather jackets, chains, and patches. What's great about punk fashion is you can redefine it to match your own personality. No need to go all out with all essential punk clothing. You can simply have ripped black jeans, a leather jacket, and shirt with a slogan. You can even wear black pumps to achieve a punk meets corporate look, which seems to be a popular choice in street style these days. Other looks you can explore are greaser, preppy, gothic, skater, and hip hop style. Always try to redefine and personalize the look to represent your own identity and attitude.

Vintage Lasts Forever

If you rummage through your mom or dad's old wardrobe, you can actually spot some great vintage pieces. While certain vintage pieces can be seasonal, you can achieve a great look with a touch of the classic. Even the 90s denim jacket now enjoys a well-received comeback in mainstream and urban fashion. Colorful blazers, shoulder pads, and printed bottoms are returning trends these days. Vintage clothing stores can get you cheap and great finds. However, even boutiques and popular clothing stores incorporate vintage designs into their new collection. But nothing shows it best like authentic vintage.

Be Up to Date

Time-tested styles and vintage pieces can help you start off with a great street-style look. However, if you want to keep up with the latest in urban fashion, follow the right websites and blogs where you can find insight into the latest fashion trends these days. Join fashion networks and learn from others. Build your own personal style by exploring new looks and trying out the latest. If you love fashion that much, learning and exploring will come out naturally.

Americana Style Fashion Trend




It's that time of year again; when the beer is flowing, the sky is filled with fireworks, and no meal is complete without a slice of apple pie a la mode. With the 4th of July around the corner, the Americana style trend is hot to trot. At once timeless and nostalgic, it evokes opportunity, optimism and strength. Whether you were born and bred in the land of the free or simply want to chase your own (American) dreams, this look is sure to make you want to take a road trip in a beat-up Cadillac and get lost in the Wild West.

If you want to be a full on American ambassador, there is no better place to start than with the iconic stars and stripes. Fly the flag proudly in a printed sweater with some distressed denim cutoffs, or pair some hot pants emblazoned with the Star Spangled banner and an over-sized white or blue tank for casual yet coordinated cool. Round off with well-worn baseball shoes or an impressive pair of platforms depending on whether you're headed to the sports stadium or the bar. Oh heck, the platforms will look amazing anywhere. There are bonus points available for those who really commit to this look by wearing cowboy boots.

If you want to reference American culture in slightly less literal ways, look to Prada's Spring/Summer 2012 collection for 1950s glamorous inspiration. The muscle-car print, mimicked elsewhere at ASOS and Primark, is cute and knowingly kitschy, while the leather pieces add a touch of sophistication to the fun. Make like a beauty school dropout with swing skirts in pretty pastels and prints, topped with bandeaus and gingham tie blouses. Add a headscarf and some cat eye sunglasses for a vintage sex appeal that never gets old.

The Pink Ladies inspiration doesn't need to stop there. Hunt for a leather bomber jacket and customise with your favourite badges and pins, and go for waist belts to accentuate your curves in those flattering and go-with-everything pencil skirts. Shop for a classic Birkin-esque oversized handbag to perfect a look that's more Stepford Wives than Desperate Housewives. Include lady-like printed blouses on your wish list so that you can easily pair separates for a capsule wardrobe to die for. Perfect for a cross-country journey on the highway!

This isn't a look that you need to wear from head to toe. In fact, only those feeling particularly patriotic may want to. You can easily hint at your enthusiasm for all things Yankee by considering classic symbols such as Eagles, Uncle Sam, the Golden Gate Bridge and the Statue of Liberty (among many, many more). Clothing and jewellery incorporating these motifs are easy to find and throw a subtler salute to the States, incase you're worried about looking like a walking flagpole. For an all-American vibe that's even easier, just think preppiness and simplicity. Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren have been showing the world how it's done for decades, and who are we to argue with these American greats?

Shabby Chic Style Fashion




The shabby fashion basically refers to something that is somewhat worn but is still attractive and interesting. The shabby chic style is quite messy but still charming. It is definitely imperfect yet it is still beautiful. If you are the kind of person who refuses to follow the norms of standard beauty and prefers to be unique, then this style is perfect for you. The shabby chic style is the style that is old-fashioned yet fashionable.

To be able to dress in shabby chic style, you have to think antique. Choose antique-looking dresses and blouses. You can buy these at second-hand stores or you can just ransack the closet of you mother or grandmother. Wear something in brown, bronze, black, and gold. Neutral colors such as gray, charcoal, beige, old rose, navy, burgundy, camel, mustard, chocolate, ivory, lavender, and yellow are also favorable. These colors represent the shabby chic style. Avoid bright colors as much as possible. You may also grab some faded jeans since faded hues are a part of shabby style's allure. You may want to choose skinny jeans, though. These jeans are casual and very stylish. They are not sloppy either. If you prefer skirts, nonetheless, choose pieces that are flowing.

Another aspect of the shabby chic style is layering. Layered clothes make this style unique and distinguished. However, even if the shabby chic style does not conform to the trend, it still follows the basics of aesthetics. So, you have to be more concerned on looking good than being trendy. Layer your shirts, camisoles, hoodies, and sweaters; but you must always consider the color, the texture, and the weight of the fabrics you are using. You can even layer your accessories and jewelries.

Speaking of accessories and jewelries, antique earrings best enhance the shabby chic style. Choose pieces that are big and brown or bronze and dangling. Pair them with your old camisole or skirt. You may also ask for your mother's old bracelets and rings. In addition, look for unusual jewelries in flea markets, thrift stores, and even online stores. Seed bead bracelets, chandelier earrings, lockets, ribbon chokers, and plain bands are the finest. Express yourself through your bracelets, rings, earrings, and necklaces.

6 Steps to Dress in Vintage Style Fashion




1. Go out there and shop! Nowadays, in order to dress in vintage styles, you no longer need to dive into your grandma's closet, or go to the nearest thrift store. These days thrift stores are well aware of the popular demands for vintage. We certainly can pound our high street to search for our popular vintage style fashion.

2. Find yourself a vintage style dress. One thing that is characteristic of the way ladies used to dress is, they always wore a dress. Rain or shine, ladies in the past were always well groomed, with a nicely cut dress. So what kind of dress should we opt for to adopt the past? I would recommend you to choose an era that particularly appeals to you. The 30s are for ladies who embrace their curves, 40s for someone quite petite and gamine, 50s for the cheerful and bright, 60s is the era for someone who's daring and the 70s for someone who is a bit of a wild child.

3. Well, let's see what kind of choices we can play with. Imagine yourself wearing a floaty maxi dress with a flower ring in your hair, this would make you a perfect bohemian wild child. A 60s little mini dress in a coral colour, would be really cool for the girlie lady in you who just wants to show off her legs! If you love a bit of drama and colour, a 50s fitted-bodice dress with a big skirt would be ideal for you. For someone who would love to enhance their petite figure, a fitted pencil dress in an eye catching green would fit the bill. How about trying a golden bias-cut number for the sexy 30s vixen in you?

4. To modernise your look, team your dress with some leggings or some colourful tights. This would be the key to give the look a clean update. Casual leggings show you have a practical side which helps to organise your life. Some fun coloured tights would be a cool option to brighten your outfits.

5. What choice of shoes could take your outfit to another level? I would say that some platform boots for the mod-style mini dress would be just perfect. Some creeper shoes would be perfectly sweet with a 30s style long dress, or a 50s swing dress. They're comfy, and the added platform would give you the extra wow! factor or the height that you need.

6. The perfect make up would be an eyeliner flick and a crimson red lipstick. This is the amazing combination for anybody who wants a glamorous style.

Country Style Fashion




Each year, trends and styles change; but if you will analyze it, fashion just circulate. Country style fashion has become popular lately. It was, in fact, inspired by Western clothing such as cowboy boots and hats. This style is said to have developed during the start of the gold rush. At present, country style clothing is available for men and women. They are affordable and versatile. Some of the most sought after pieces are embroidered long sleeves and shirts that have front pockets. Striped and checkered tops are also trendy. In addition, belts, rhinestones, leather bags, and vests are must-haves to complete the country style look.

Of course, you will also need a good pair of wellington boots. Green is usually the preferred color but you can also sport a dark blue if you feel like throwing caution to the wind. As much as possible, avoid polka dots and floral prints. These are typically sold in big box stores. They are impractical, vulgar, and make you look like an outsider. However, you must not put on the wellington boots without shaking them first. Turn them upside down to get rid of any dirt, creepy crawler, or insect that might be inside them. You will never know if a little creature is hiding inside your dark footwear unless you shake it off.

A headscarf is also an essential part of a country style wardrobe. It is elegant and chic. It will keep your hair neat on a windy day and add glamour to your outfit. You may also tie it around your neck for versatility. Sensible, durable brogues are also must-haves; but for a formal event, a pair of high-heeled court shoes is recommended. Moreover, keep in mind to never wear a pair of shorts even if the temperature outside is high. If you want to stick with country style, wear a comfortable summer dress made of cotton instead. This will retain your sophistication and class. Of course, you must also choose country style prints and patterns for your dress.

Nice waxed jackets are essential, as well. Get something with cuffs and corduroy collars to achieve that country style effect. Remember that a good quality suit goes forever, so it is also ideal if you will invest in classic pieces such as wool suits. Do not wear fur, though, unless it is vintage and has been in your closet for years. Stick to pieces that will help you achieve and maintain a country style. Nonetheless, make sure that you have several good quality pairs of gloves for gardening, walking your dog, and driving. Furthermore, you must invest in a shooting stick. These pieces are lifesavers at flower shows, country fairs, and other equestrian events.

Southwestern Style Fashion




The southwestern style tends to be the style that has always been there whenever people need comfort. It is all about warm colors and simple designs. No wonder so many people like this style. Designers of southwestern fashion purposely created clothing that will help consumers feel good about themselves. Nevertheless, the southwestern style is also about being chic and colorful. Classic dress silhouettes, zigzag patterns, and printed feathers are just some of the elements incorporated with this style. Glamorous clutches and ankle-strap sandals are fantastic additions, as well.

If you want to wear southwestern style garments, choose pieces in red, white, and black. However, you may also choose tan and turquoise for a more colorful twist. The southwestern style is about warm colors, intricate native designs, and tightly woven fabrics. This style is actually a complex mix of various cultures from New Mexico and Arizona. The vibrant colors incorporated in this style were inspired by the colors and natural beauty of the desert landscape. The rich yellows and reds represent the desert vegetation and the clay soil. The earth tones such as grays and browns, on the other hand, represent the dry and arid desert.

Along with clothes come extras and accessories. Gray and brown purses are ideal to be worn with southwestern style clothing. A purse like these is truly a must-have for a woman who is a cowgirl at heart. Handbags make great accessories, as well. These items certainly make a statement. In addition, these pieces are not just aesthetically appealing; they are also functional. So, you may wear a purse or a handbag everyday to carry your belongings and show off your southwestern style at the same time.

Aside form purses and handbags, you may also want to invest in belts. Fine-looking brave belts are just what you need to complete your southwestern style fashion. Of course, you have to choose belts that are in earth colors. You may choose from light brown to black. Plain belts are alright, but you may also want them to have cool buckles and intricate designs. Buckle designs that go from rock star to cowboy are the best. These designs are, in fact, among the most sought-after designs.

Furthermore, you may want to get southwestern style cuffs. Originally, cuffs were not part of this style. They used to be present in punk fashion alone. However, the emo and punk styles have influenced the mainstream style and turned cuffs into must-haves. Today, cuffs have actually been making quite an impression particularly on the concert and club scenes of every major city in the United States. Thick leather cuffs with metal studs are the most popular. You can also define your personality by wearing a cuff around your wrist.