fashion files
Every season brings new possibilities! Sure, there are always tie-ins from past seasons to allow practicality. But bringing in the new adds a fresh twist to your wardrobe, not to mention lifting your spirits. Not sure of your body type, coloring or style personality? Enlist the help of a personal stylist today and you could be on your way to a more confident you. Not to mention the amount of money saved from purchasing the wrong color, fit and style specific to you.
What To Expect This Season
This SS08, belts will be everywhere - I mean everywhere. On dresses, skirts, shirts, sweaters, jackets. Everywhere. Dresses and skirts will mainly be knee length or just a tad over. The look for skirts will be flirty and playful - for dresses, streamlined and elegant. I think some of the muted palette from FW07 will carry over, however, splashes of fantastic color will lend itself well to the basic black and white. I see sunny yellow, vibrant red, and a bright, pretty pink playing key roles. The balance of color is what will really make a statement. I believe our basic black and white will be basic in what only SS08 can bring. I see fresh patterns, such as plaids, being complimented with brilliant color.Denim in unusual forms will make a comeback. It will take on a young and hip look in tops and trousers. Paint will also make its comeback. However, I am doubtful it will make as strong a statement as denim. Look for art inspired motifs in resort wear and shoes as well as accessories such as purses, sunglasses and necklaces.
I am thrilled to report the marriage of tangerine and turquoise - in just about any combination imaginable … layered dresses, tops, skirts, bathing suits, shorts and accessories. I am already dreaming of tangerine suede pumps - gotta have ‘em! Not sure how serious to take this collaging bit, but you may see unique contrasting textures and prints cut to live together as one (think Ulrike “Uli” Herzner from Project Runway Season 3).
[my] Top 10
- Yet again, a patent leather bag. But this time, in a cheery color such as hot pink or teal.
- Soften up your eyes with mascara in navy, amber or deep purple. And look for beautiful new shades of eye shadow and liners.
- Metallic ballet flats. Or bright patent leather. But don’t break the bank if you are a heel wearer like me.
- Beautiful, bright colored dresses! And those dresses keeping within the forecast for SS08.
- Good skin - it’s always in!! If you must use foundation, ditch your liquid and switch to powder.
- Belts. Thin and pretty or double wrapped.
- Cuffed jeans.
- Mixing a gingham top with this skirt.
- A fun trench coat.
- A sexy pair of heels - in a bright color. (I am drooling over Versace’s blue patent leather high-heeled sandals, however, not only can’t I afford them, I can’t find them anywhere!!)
Popular related content
Wardrobe Essentials, Your Working Wardrobe, You Did Not Wear That!, What Body Type Are You?, Size Charts Converted, Spring Is Here - But The Weather Isn’t Cooperating, A Cleansed Wardrobe, Boots v. Irony, New Trend? Let’s Hope Not, What Inspires You?, Jacket Obsession, Knee High Socks, Online Shoe Shopping, Finer Details Needed Here, Shoe Prices Keep Going Up, Shoe Shoe Foo Foo, That One Fashion Item, Wear Your Support, West Coast Style Watch.
Fashion file of the month:
My hot pink Hermes pocket square scarf. Gorgeous roses in tangerine, lavender, pale pink and fuchsia. Perfect for Spring. I wear it around my wrist, mostly. But also around my neck. I learned some nifty ways of tying it around my neck where it almost looks like a button in the middle. Very chic!
Identifying your personal style and delivering the appropriate guidance for a lifetime of confidence. 
Hi,
My name is Tesa, and your lovely sister in law Cindy is a great friend of mine (I live in Minneapolis too) and referred me to your website - very cool!
I have a question for you…I received a nice Coach leather purse as a gift, over the shoulder bucket style, very cute. My question is about this feature: it is white leather. I do not own any white leather purses (or any white purses at all…) because I’ve always felt like I must be retired and live in Boca to carry one and that it can only be carried in the summer months. Perhaps my understanding is incorrect? I’m debating whether to keep it or return for a darker color (I’m the one that almost always wears black…). Cindy suggested I ask you, if you don’t mind, for your expert opinion on this matter.
Thank you so much and thanks for all the great advice and info on your website!
Take good care!
Tesa
Hi Tesa,
You have come to the right place. I am obsessed with white and off-white bags/purses right now. You cannot return it, under any circumstances. Now, I am not sure which style you have, but rest assured…it’s hot! I almost “collected” three white bags this season. Being in the South, I can get away with wearing it a lot longer than you can. It transcends seasons here. For you, I would say carry it until mid October and get it back out in May. The thing is, we women gravitate toward the same, safe standards every time (seriously!). Go against the grain, my friend. Embrace a white purse! It looks great with all black, by the way :>)
Thank you so much for your great info and fun energy! I really appreciate it, what a great resource. Can’t wait to read more of your info and learn a few more things! Thanks!!
You are most welcome! Please check back in to let us know how you are liking your white purse.
Hey Catherine!
I love your witty postings, I truly laugh out loud when I read some of them. Here is a sticky question for you. Skirt length? Length vs. buyer’s age?
I bought a gorgeous Diane VF dress for fall in a dark purple/black pattern - but the dress length is about 4 inches above the knee. Other than with high boots and opaque tights how does one approaching 40 wear something like that without looking ridiculous.
Hi Kay,
Thank you! Oooooh, I want to see a pic of your DVF dress. Sounds beautiful. What material is it? Below is a basic guide to skirt length. With regard to age, you’ve got at least 15 more years to worry about wearing a dress or skirt 4 inches above your knee. Go for it. You, of all people, can totally pull it off and own the look! I think you fall into the curvy category (on the petite side, of course).
Straight up and down (or boyish frame): Wear skirts with structure (A-Line, knife pleat, poofy or flowy skirts made of substantial fabric). If you’re tall, you can also wear tiered or floor length skirts of any material.
Curvy (hourglass frame): Stay away from floor length, shapeless or drawstring skirts. Also steer clear of anything cut at the calf. A slightly flared A-line skirt, cut at the knee or just above works great to even out your frame. Leave enough leg showing.
Pear-shaped frame: Wear darker colors on the bottom to minimize your rear end. Balance it with a light colored top. A smooth, tailored skirt works great, as well. Stay away from large prints and big pleats.
Full curves (larger frame): Wear darker colors, such as black, blue and deep purple for a slimming effect. Try a flared A-line skirt, cut at or just below the knee, or a long tailored skirt of a heavy material. Avoid shapeless, baggy skirts and drawstring waists, as well as pleats and big prints.
What style pants are best for someone with long legs but not the narrowest hips. I think since I had Tyler, I am more self conscience about that area and am looking to buy new pants for work. Any ideas?
You might not want to hear this, but wide leg pants are really in…and they look best on really long legs. Pair it with a simple, slimming top. And a bold belt will help to balance out your long legs.
As far as your hip concern (which you shouldn’t have any Miss Tall Skinny Girl), choose tops with non-clingy fabrics to skim the hips and pair with your typical style pant. You could also choose pants with vertical striped patterns. I’ll be in OH soon - let’s go shopping!
Sounds good! I found some cute pants at the Limited–they were wide legged, but cropped. Very cute, not sure what shoes to wear with them. Katie actually got the same pair and has a cute pair of flat, ballet type shoes she is going to wear with them. What do you think?
Ballet shoes are so in! I couldn’t resist getting a pair (red/white polka dots) back in June. You can totally pull that off, as can Katie. However, ballet shoes are meant to be shown off (with skirts, shorts, capris). And wide-leg pants work best with closed or open-toed spectators or the new stileto-heeled loafers or lace ups.
Catherine,
Just wanted to comment because I saw Matt & Nat listed as one of your favorites. I was lucky enough to receive a Matt&Nat bag for Christmas this year. Can’t rave enough about it! Super roomy, but not too. Great variety of pockets inside so everything fits, also came with a clip-in keychain. Love, love, love it. Goes with everything.
Keep up the good work.
Hi Teresa,
I love Matt & Nat. So affordable and so practical. And yummy, soft leather. They always carry stylish trends. Yeah for you for getting a new M&N bag! I am jealous!!
Thanks,
Catherine
Catherine,
I have the gray Cole Haan boots - how cool is that, having the same boots that you have and recommended on your website! Aren’t they the best. I wear the hell out of them. I love them with skirts and dresses or jeans. They are fab! Thanks for your style inspiration.
Kara
Hi Catherine,
Still loving your site and the direction you’re taking it. Sounds like you are getting great results with Theraderm. Are there samples available?
BTW - I also went with the white trench for Spring and I’m loving it! I saw it on Oprah and found it for a steal at J.C. Penny (can you believe that?). You’re looking smashing in yours!
Love,
Melissa
Hi Melissa - so miss you. Glad to hear you got a white trench. Trenches will continue big time well into next year and beyond. Way to go getting that steal! Regarding Theraderm, I don’t currently have any samples but you can try the kit for $15 (plus shipping). It lasts 2 weeks. Or, next time I am in town, I will bring personal samples from my mega full sizes!
Hello! I found your blog from someone who started to follow me on twitter. I love fashion and style and I loved reading your style blog!