Should
you spend a lot of money on trendy clothes?
If you
look at fashion magazines or listen to "fashion experts"
making the rounds on the morning talk shows this time of
year, the answer is invariably, "yes!" Not surprising, since
they're trying to sell clothes.
But
if you're a long-time reader of this ezine, you know
the answer is "no." Trends come and go, and if you drop
a lot of money on a trendy piece, you won't be able to
wear it enough to justify the expense before it passes
out of style.
So what
can you do to look current WITHOUT spending a lot on
trends? By investing in classic, simple separates that
you can wear again and again, and then topping them with
an inexpensive trendy piece or accessory. Spend the most
on the basic, timeless pieces you wear the most, spend
the least on the "in" today, "out" tomorrow trends that
will be long over by next season.
With
that in mind, here are some of the "best bets"
of the season --looks that are current, figure-friendly,
and won't be "out" in the blink of an eye:
1. Full Skirts 
Catherines
The full
skirt retains its popularity from spring because it works
well on many body shapes and offers both camouflage and
comfort. If you grab a few in year 'round fabrics and pair
them with boots, you can look chic AND stay warm once the
temperatures start to drop. But remember: if you have a
thick waist or tend to carry extra weight on your tummy
or hips, steer clear of styles that gather at the waist
or that have bulky details around the waist or hips.
Spiegel
2. Black and White
Norm Thompson
The
"new" black is... black. Black continues to be a perennial
favorite because it slenderizes and adds a bit of
sophistication. When teamed with white, it creates drama. So
if you look good in black, grab a few black and white pieces
and turn heads wherever you go.Newport News
3.
Brown and Camel
Norm Thompson
Have
coloring that's better suited to brown and ivory than black
and white? You're in luck! This season you'll find plenty of
earthy tones to choose from that reflect the colors of the
season. Whether you need do stock up on some basics or want to
add a bit of flair, you're sure to find something you
like.Bluefly
4. Animal prints
Coldwater Creek
Animal
prints continue to be popular this year, probably because they
add a bit of whimsy. Grab a printed skirt, vest, belt, or
whatever, and pair it with your basic pieces for a fun,
contemporary look. Just remember to scale the print to your
body size so you're not over or under whelmed by
it.Spiegel
5. Lady-like
ChicSpiegel
If you
like ladylike details, you'll find plenty to choose from this
year. From tops and skirts to belts and shoes, you'll find
lots of beautiful pieces. Just be aware that flounces, lace,
and bows can add bulk, so put them in places that can
withstand the extra padding.
Newport News
6. Western
Inspired
Lew Magram
Even
though the west was won a long time ago, western-inspired
looks seem to resurface every few years - and this is one of
those seasons. So pull out your denim, dust off your cowboy
boots, and go have some fun with this look, which looks like
it will last well into next spring. Handsome cowboy is
optional.Spiegel
7. Bohemian
Newport News
The
bohemian look continues to endure, with a fresh new offering
of the artistic and unconventional. These pretty pieces pair
perfectly with your classics, creating an interesting focal
point that's both current and dramatic. Spiegel
8. Velvet
Newport News
Once reserved
for the holiday season, velvet has broken out of its winter
restrains to become a popular fabric for fall. You'll find
it in all sorts of unexpected places this season, from
jackets to scarves to denim embellishment. Have fun with
it but remember: velvet shows wear quickly and can be difficult
to clean, so choose your pieces wisely.
La Redoute
9.
Russian Inspired
Spiegel
Every
now and again, when designers think cold weather, their
imagination takes them to Russia for inspiration. This is one
of those years. If you like Cossack-inspired pieces, you'll
find plenty to choose from this year.La Redoute
10. Natural Luxury
Coldwater Creek
Do you
like natural fibers, whatever the weather? So do lots of other
people, and designers have taken note. You'll find lots of
silk, wool, and cashmere this season, as well as plenty of
skins and fur. If you object to real animal products, opt for
faux instead.Lew Magram
So
where do you start? By taking stock of what you have, filling
in the holes, and choosing your trends with care. Not everything
looks good on everybody, so pick and chose the pieces that
make the most sense for your personal style and situation.
It's the best way to make the most of your clothing budget.
