Tis the season to go shopping. Chances are, you have at least one fashionista in your life who leaves you at a loss when it comes to holiday gift-buying. Some local style-makers have some tips for you to help you bypass the masses at the malls. After interviewing several trend setters, the consensus is decidedly consistent.
Here's the skinny:
If Lou Reed hasn't given you ample permission to take a walk on the wild side, this season's array of animal print options surely will. First and foremost, in order to be cool, you must have something furry on your back. (So sorry PETA). Textile texture is in and fur is the front runner in fashion. Worried about being perceived as a blue-haired in mink and pearls? Kara Mia of Pour Moi Atelier offers prudent advice, "A tip on wearing fur if you are over the age of 30, keep it simple and on the smallest part of your body with accessories such as fur headbands, shoes or belts."
Fashion Stylist Shannon Schroeder points out that fur is also prevalent on "hats, muffs and neck warmers." Yum.
And where there is fur, there is animal print. It runs wild and rampant this winter. Just don't go crazy or you'll end up looking like Fran Drescher.
Valentin Esparza advises that texture doesn't stop with fur, "I'm seeing texture overload this season. But I'm not just talking fur. Fur is always in. Fur vests are especially in this winter. I even want one for myself. But beyond that, I'm talking about textured skirts with a little volume."
Another great way to incorporate some texture into your wardrobe is with cozy cable knits sweaters. Not only are they warm, they might just be license to forgo that carb free diet for a few months. They are thick and wooly and will hide a multitude of sins as everyone looks large in them and thus, nobody is really passing any judgment. This same sentiment applies to the drapey and camouflaging qualities of the Navajo poncho which has apparently gone mainstream this year.
The texture and volume trends don't just apply to clothing. They are head to toe trends. Tami Seaton of Toni Johnson Salon suggests that you incorporate these looks into your hairstyle with "fishtail braids, top knots and voluminous curls."
Not to insinuate that all of this fur, fishtailing and volume is indicative of complete anarchy. There's still a bit of structure incorporated into this year's silhouettes via menswear looks with a feminine spin.
Menswear does not mean manly, mind you. It doesn't mean borrowing your boyfriend's blazer and calling it good. It also doesn't mean 80's power suits with exaggerated shoulders a la Tess McGuire in Working Girl. With the current menswear aesthetic, expect to see subdued fabrics and thoughtful tailoring. It is indeed still very womanly. Shannon Schroeder offers a tip on how to wear the menswear trend but still keep it sexy, "Wide leg denim trousers with a heeled loafer allows you to wear the more masculine pieces but still keeps them very feminine."
In addition to menswear inspired looks, you can also expect to see a bit of structure imparted by this season's military inspired outer wear and boots.
So how to wear military without looking outright militant? Noelle Kilgore of Shoe Gypsy offers some tips on how to balance the ensemble, "Hints of sparkle mixed with some masculine aspects keep the look interesting. For example, a dainty feminine dress with fun tights and military boots makes for a cool winter outfit and is trending right now."
If current trends seem to be a little across the board, the unifying element between them is definitely color. If you happen to be wearing a color you'd see on a peacock, you're golden. Camel, emerald green, vibrant blueberry blue, teal, plum, deep orange and rich reds all lend an air of opulence to any outfit and are particularly flattering to the paler skin tones of the colder, darker months.
The beauty is in the mix, the art is in the juxtaposition and nothing that is absolutely perfect is very interesting. Fashion should be fun. Have fun with it. And when gift giving, remember it truly is the thought that counts. Just don't forget to include that gift receipt.
Send all comments and feedback regarding Fashion to natchley@urbantulsa.com.
Visit nicci6.com or facebook.com/SeekingNicci6 for more topics from Nicci Atchley.
-- Visit nicci6.com or facebook.com/SeekingNicci6 for more topics from Nicci Atchley.
Share this article:
Mail Article
Print Article
Add to favorites
