Lifestyles

By Sharon Mosley

If you’re tired of the same old black swimsuit you’ve been wearing for years, it’s time to color your water world with rainbow stripes and follow the yellow brick road to fun in the sun. Swimwear trends this year are anything but boring. Whether you choose a retro one-piece or a slinky bikini, there’s a swimsuit for everyone. Here are the trends making a splash for the season ahead:

— Make the rainbow connection. One of the hottest trends in swimwear is saturated color — in rainbow stripes that are meant to be seen. These multicolored suits are showing up in every shape and size. Look for juicy stripes in every color of the rainbow in primary hues, graphic watercolors and geometric graphics.

— Cut it out. Another cool trend in the swimwear department: designs that feature graphic skin-baring patterns. One-pieces such as keyhole tankinis are the perfect way to show off these unique cut-out suits — which may be more apropos for lounging by the pool than doing laps at the gym.

— Statement shoulders. The off-the-shoulder tops on both one-pieces and two-pieces have taken on more feminine details for this spring and summer. The one-shoulder look makes a big statement, especially in ruffled styles with wide straps. These suits are perfect companions for beach-to-dinner dressing. Team one with a long sheer skirt, shorts or a breezy pair of palazzo pants.

— Belting it out. In many stylish swimwear collections this year, the focus is on the waist. Wide belts and wide bands can add a decorative touch to solid maillots or bottoms. Be sure to try these suits on before you buy, as some of us may not want to bring more attention to our midriff area.

— Get a leg up. Just like jeans, swimwear goes high-rise this season. High-cut legs, high waists and even high necks are often showing up in retro-inspired suits. Remember boy shorts? Hot pants? They’re back and turning up at the beach and on the concert stage.

— Tie one on. Swimwear and coverups are dressed up this summer with lots of details such as laces, ties and ruching on the sides. Check out the crocheted suits, too. The ultimate example of “tying one on” is the famous string bikini. Wear at your own risk.

— Surf’s up! Swimwear with sleeves is becoming more prevalent, especially as sun protection becomes more important than ever. Ditto for tee rash guards, mini swim skirts, board shorts, tunic dresses and, yes, sun hats — all in fabrics infused with SPF for sun protection in and out of the water.

— Mix and match. Don’t forget: One of the best ways to have more fun with your swim wardrobe this season is to mix and match tops and bottoms, beach wardrobes and swim wardrobes. Don’t be afraid to mix florals with animal prints, stripes with geometrics, velvets with metallics, pastels with brights. With more and more sizes available in swim collections, there are more and more ways to splash into the season ahead and find your perfect swimsuit at the end of the rainbow.

COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

Family Features

This Easter, satisfy guests of all ages with festive cupcakes modeled after the Easter bunny.
For more Easter recipes, visit Culinary.net.

Bunny Butt Cupcakes
Recipe courtesy of Amanda Rettke of “I am baker”
Prep time: 45 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Servings: 24
1 2-layer size white cake mix
1 tablespoon, plus 2 teaspoons, McCormick Pure Lemon Extract, divided
1 tablespoon McCormick Pure Vanilla Extract
3/4 cup white chocolate chips
2 sticks butter, softened
16 ounces confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons milk
10 drops McCormick Green Food Color
1-2 drops McCormick Red Food Color
12 large marshmallows, halved crosswise
3 tablespoons white nonpareil sprinkles

Prepare cake mix as directed on package, adding 1 tablespoon lemon extract and vanilla. Spoon 3 tablespoons batter into 24 paper-lined muffin cups. Bake as directed on package for cupcakes. Cool cupcakes on wire rack.

To make bunny feet: In medium, microwave-safe bowl, microwave white chocolate chips on high 30 seconds. Stir until completely melted and smooth. Spoon into pastry bag or re-sealable plastic bag. Snip small corner from bag. Pipe 24 pairs of bunny feet onto parchment or wax paper-lined cookie sheet. Use toothpick to smooth out bumps or rough edges, and gently tap cookie sheet on counter to help settle. Allow to harden 2 minutes in freezer or 15 minutes in refrigerator.

To make frosting: In large bowl, beat butter and remaining lemon extract until light and fluffy. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar, beating well after each addition and scraping sides and bottom of bowl frequently. Add milk; beat until light and fluffy. Remove half the frosting and place in medium bowl. Add green food color; mix until evenly blended. Spoon into pastry bag fitted with grass decorating tip. Set aside. Remove half the remaining frosting into small bowl. Add red food color; mix until light pink. Spoon into another pastry bag.

Using pink frosting, pipe three toes and padding on each bunny foot. Once frosting has set (about 1 hour) gently press down on pink frosting to create smoother look.
To assemble cupcakes: Pipe green frosting onto each cupcake in series of short motions to create individual grass spots. Cover top of each cupcake completely.

To make bunny butts: Place cut sides of marshmallow halves onto each frosted cupcake, leaving room for bunny feet. Shape remaining white frosting into dime-sized balls then roll with white sprinkles to cover. Pipe small drop of remaining pink or white frosting onto top of each marshmallow. Press bunny tail on top.

Place both bunny feet against base of marshmallow with toes facing down.

By Sharon Mosley

Get ready to take a fashion adventure into the urban jungle and celebrate the wild child in all of us. Safari chic has been inspiring fashion designers for years. Ralph Lauren created a whole lifestyle out of the aesthetic in his advertising campaigns of the ’80s. Meryl Streep glamorized the iconic style in the epic award-winning film “Out of Africa,” and then there was “Jurassic Park.”

This spring, the safari classics have once again been updated with sophisticated elements of utilitarian menswear, military staples and a fresh neutral color palette for a modern wardrobe. Here are five ways you can add some exciting touches to your closet without ever leaving home:

— The Safari Jacket. If you only buy one thing this spring, this is the piece you’ll want. The new safari jackets are belted, sleeker in silhouette and have giant patch pockets. This season, they even come in buttery leathers. More casual versions evoke a comfortable anorak style. And of course, these jackets, whether in polished cotton or lightweight leather, make great transitional outerwear: team one with a floaty floral dress for weekend wear or dress it up with matching trousers for the office.

— The Safari Fashion Colors. Another way to add instant cred to your safari-inspired wardrobe is with a neutral color palette. And these aren’t just any black or navy neutrals. Instead, stick to olive greens, sandy browns and, of course, the most classic khaki. This year, rusty paprika reds and golden turmeric give traditional neutrals a zesty flavor. Layer all these earthy hues together to give your outfits even more personality.

— The Safari Pants. From cropped cargos and jodhpurs to button-front wide-legs to creamy denim jeans to midi-length culottes, pants go on safari this spring in a wide variety of styles. And don’t forget shorts! Jumpsuits are another option; mix them with cargo jackets or wear them on their own. If you want a change from your tried-and-true blue jeans, try a new pair of khaki pants or olive shorts.

— The Safari Shirtdress. If you’re looking for an oldie-but-goodie, the shirtdress is a familiar style that can easily be accessorized and layered with jackets, vests, tees and sweaters for year-round wear. Long flowing skirts in cool linen are also warm-weather favorites and versatile backdrops for your favorite safari toppers.

— The Safari Accessories. This may be the easiest way to give your wardrobe a walk on the wild side. Animal prints are all over the place now — in shirts, scarves, handbags, jewelry and shoes. Chunky gold bracelets and earrings are perfect foils for earthy colors. Oversized belt bags and leather and linen tote bags are other ways to carry off a little of the safari vibe.

Now you can start planning that trip to Africa! You have your packing list.

COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

PHOTO CAPTION: Add to your spring wardrobe a sleek safari jacket in creamy white for a classic piece that will last years. This one’s from Acne Studios. www.acnestudios.com.

Ideas for an easy Easter menu

Family Features
Whether you’re new to hosting or simply looking for ideas to make Easter entertaining easier than ever, there are plenty of ways to save time and stress in the kitchen.

Go with what you know. Trying out new recipes is fun, but it can also add stress when they don’t turn out like you expected. Stick to tried and true dishes you can prepare and serve with confidence and save the experimenting for another time.

Take shortcuts. At the center of many Easter feasts is a ham that has been expertly cured and cooked to perfection. Even so, starting with a full-cooked ham is a shortcut that no one is likely to notice, especially if you heat it properly. For exceptional quality and a variety of flavor profile options to choose from, turn to America’s Original Butcher, Omaha Steaks. The meats are fully cooked then frozen before being delivered to your door for maximum convenience.

Work ahead. Plan your menu to incorporate items you can make ahead of time so you’re under less pressure the day of your dinner. Even handling the prep work like slicing veggies the night before can buy back precious minutes, that way when guests begin arriving, you can step out of the kitchen and enjoy the day right along with them.
Find more ideas to make hosting this year’s Easter meal easy at OmahaSteaks.com/buy/meals/easter.

By Sharon Mosley

It’s a special night of the year! High school proms are on the spring calendar, and finding that special dress gets more critical every day. Start your shopping now, and say “yes” to these prom fashion trends that you’ll find twirling around the dance floor.

— Be the belle of the ballgown. Yes, the ultimate prom dress this year may just be a larger-than-life ballgown fit for a royal. The fit-and-flare silhouette is a flattering shape for most, and there are plenty of styles and colors to choose from. Pockets, anyone?

— Far away in another galaxy. Lighting up the night with glitter and glitz is another way to stand out at prom. From sequined silver mermaid gowns to shimmering beaded gold ballgowns, it’s all about ways to sparkle. Ombre rose gold has even more of a ‘wow’ factor. And don’t forget to accessorize these metallic gowns with glittering makeup on your eyes and lips.

— Two pieces may be better than one. The two-piece prom silhouette will give you lots more options, such as a crop top teamed with a flowing floral-print skirt or a strapless bodice teamed with a slinky pair of metallic knit palazzo pants. Two-piece silhouettes offer a more nontraditional way to dress for the prom.

— Go high or go low? There are lots of “illusions” in dress styles that can make you stand apart. Long, sheer tulle skirts worn over shorter skirts were a hit last year, but this year, there are even more ways to go high and low. Think shorts under maxi skirts with a high slit. Now that’s an illusion even the parents will like.

— Topping it off. The cold-shoulder look has evolved into a one-shoulder asymmetric silhouette that is just as glamorous. Taking the plunge with deep V-necks and sweetheart necklines is still a strong trend, too. These looks scream for an up-do or one-sided braid so all the focus is on the shoulders. Add a statement necklace or even a jeweled crown for a show-stopping Instagram post.

— Navy is the new black. The bold neon brights are dancing their way into prom in tangy corals, sunny yellows and red-hot reds. But the blues are back, too, in lighter sky blues and darker inky blues. Bright white is always chic. And if black’s always been your go-to, consider wearing a sophisticated navy this year. This is one prom dress that you may even be able to wear again!

COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

PHOTO CAPTION: Make a statement in a two-piece crop top and high-low floral maxi skirt by Speechless at Macy’s. www.macys.com.

By Sharon Mosley

If you’re dreaming of tropical shores and lucky enough to take a break from the cold weather this spring, just remember to take your fashion sense with you. But before the clothes come off and the beach party begins, here are a few tips to keep your cool and avoid having a spring break style meltdown.

–Do keep it natural. Who really wants to wear a ton of makeup in hot weather? The smoky eye may be all the rage, but smudged “raccoon” eyes at the pool are not setting any style trends. Invest in some waterproof cosmetics if you feel like you need to, but otherwise, keep it natural and enjoy the freedom of a bare face.

–Don’t skip the sunscreen. It’s a necessity — and should even be worn year-round if possible. There are now lots of beauty products with built-in sunscreen, so check your labels and make sure you’re covered. Makeup that is mineral-based tends to work well because it is not as greasy as some other oil-based cosmetics.

–Do cover up. Even if you have the body of a Sports Illustrated swimsuit model, you’ll need some sort of cover-up if you are outside in the hot sun for any length of time. Ditch the beach towel wrapped around your waist and go for something a little more chic — a long striped zip-front cardigan, a flirty romper or a geometric print maxi dress. These cover-ups are also great for easing into early evening cocktails or dinners by the shore.

–Don’t get sloppy. Yes, vacation is a time to loosen up the rules a little bit, but there are still some limits to dress decorum. Beaches are filled with fashion “don’ts.” But remember there are lots of cameras out there, and they can record your every faux pas. So if you don’t want to go viral, avoid the worst offenders: swimwear that doesn’t fit. If it leaves anything hanging out, you don’t want to wear it in public. Period.

–Do layer it on. One of the best style tips when the weather warms up: You can always add more layers if you need to. There are lots of ways to keep cool this summer, even if you start with the bare basics like a swimsuit or a pair of shorts and a tank top. Lightweight jackets and cardigans can be your best layering friends. Long flowing skirts and breezy caftans are another way to add high style.

–Don’t forget accessories. Surviving a heat wave often does mean less is more when it comes to accessories. But just because it’s a little humid outside doesn’t mean you have to forgo all the fashion extras. Grab a scarf to tame frizzy hair. Stash your valuables in an oversized canvas tote. Rock a pair of leopard print espadrilles. Top it all off with a debonair straw fedora and retro-style sunglasses.

–Do indulge. Take time off from your normal “office” attire and breathe a little. Lighten up in sheer mesh tunics, ruffled sundresses, floaty palazzo pants and painted T-shirts. Swipe on some turquoise nail polish. Discover unique gift shops in tropical ports and find that one-of-a-kind beaded necklace or set of handcrafted bangles. Break out of the heat wave, stay cool and explore your inner fashionista.

PHOTO CAPTION:Hit the beach in stylish cover-ups. Lands End terry tunic dress from www.landsend.com

COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

Family Features

Spring is the perfect time of year to break away from everyday life for a journey to a new destination. Across the country, the climate tends to be moderate, so you can take in a wide range of activities for a fun-filled getaway.

One challenge of planning a trip is finding things to do that appeal to everyone’s interests and packing it all into a limited amount of time. One solution is East Texas, where you can find a wide range of museums, outdoor adventures and historical sites that offer adventure and unique experiences for nearly everyone. Get started planning your trip for this spring with these activity ideas.

Learn something new. Museums are a great place to learn more about your favorite topics, see memorabilia and share your passion with your traveling companions. Look for a destination with museums dedicated to a wide range of interests, like the broadcast industry or the path toward freedom in America, for example.

Get immersed in nature. One of the best ways to appreciate the local flora and fauna is inserting yourself right into the middle of it. For example, at Caddo Lake State Park in Karnack, Texas, you can paddle waterways dotted with bald cypress trees draped in Span¬ish moss that tower over the lake’s maze of bayous, sloughs and ponds. While visiting the park you can also stay in a historic cabin, try your luck fishing, hike, picnic, camp and even experience an adventure within an adventure when you look for a geocache.

Get up close with animals. Zoos across the country may have one thing in common (the animals, of course), but each offers its own special touches that make learning about and interacting with animals a fresh experience. From petting areas to drive-through safaris that put you right in the middle of the animal kingdom, there are plenty of ways to satisfy the animal lover among your group.

Travel through history. If there’s a history buff in your travel party, a destination like the Texas State Railroad takes visitors back in time by allowing them to ride a refurbished train car through a round-trip, four-hour, 25-mile rail journey through the Piney Woods of East Texas. Vintage steam and diesel locomotives take passengers on a trip featuring historic narration, comfortable seating and food and adult beverage services.

Make plans to make your spring travel adventure a memorable one at TravelTexas.com.

By Sharon Mosley

Stash the heavy leather tote and lighten up your load with a brand-new bag. This spring, you don’t have to worry about cramming all your worldly possessions into a tiny purse. Bigger is better this season in airy bags that look like they’re bound for the beach. Here are the latest trends to look for now:

— The breezy straw bag. From round rattan bags to bamboo totes to raffia crossbody bags, the straw handbags are making their way from picnics and parks to city streets. Designers are making hay with innovative designs of all sizes, dressed up with leather handles and metal hardware.

— The oversized shopper. Those big shopping bags we all know and love have morphed into oversized carry-alls now spotted on the fashion runways. In shiny metallics or colorful canvas, you can pack it all in — whether you’re schlepping across town or out to the pool. These giant bags also make great travel companions.

— The clear plastic purse. See-through handbags used to be just for security checkpoints, but it was only a matter of time before the functional became fashionable. Now the transparent plastics are going upscale — even turning up in Chanel’s iconic chain-strap bags.

— The belt bag. This trendsetting accessory has also long outgrown its utilitarian “fanny pack” days and is now a chic hands-free accent that shows up for spring in fresh pastel sherbet colors. The newest way to wear a “belt” bag is actually like a necklace. Necklace bag, anyone?

— The double-sided handbag. If you’re a neat freak, this may be the bag for you. Two-sided satchels are a working woman’s dream. In tan, the new power color, these purses make getting organized easy. Look for handbags with exterior pockets for even more storage possibilities.

— The new evening bag. If you’re a party girl and want to carry a more festive approach to the traditional clutch, then shift shapes with spherical ball purses, squishy “dumpling” pouches or geometric boxes with top handles. In tapestry brocades, floral prints or dangling fringe and feathers, have fun with a new party purse and get a little carried away.

— The mini bag. If you’d rather not carry a handbag at all, then a mini purse may be all you need for a cellphone and a few essentials. There are lots of options now, from small crossbody envelope bags to small structured briefcases. “Pocketbook” takes on a whole new meaning.

— The mixed-media bag. There’s nothing boring about handbags this year. Even the tiniest of bags can have loads of personality and artistic flair. From macrame netting to abstract designs in neons and pastels, one pop of a powerful purse can spring you into a whole new season.
COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

PHOTO CAPTION: Bigger is better this spring when it comes to handbags. Shown: Brunello Cucinelli tote at www.neimanmarcus.com.

By Sharon Mosley

Get a step ahead of a new season and indulge in a new pair of shoes. You may still be wearing snow boots, but it’s never too early to give your feet a breather and get ready for the warmer days to come.

Here’s a preview of spring’s best footwear trends:

— Details, details, details. Think of shoes as jewelry. This year, shoes are decorated with everything from feathers to seashells to fringe to buckles to bows. It’s the little things that add up to great style and give your outfits an updated twist.

— It’s all about the heels. Take a stand this spring with shoes that are not your typical stilettos. Instead, try a more sculptural heel that has an artistic flair. Whether the heel is a sturdy block or a sphere, a shoe with a unique design will give your whole wardrobe instant personality.

— Be transparent. Plastic shoes are back in colorful tinted styles complete with Lucite heels … the perfect footwear for warmer weather. Jellies and flip-flops are also making a huge comeback. Buy them in multiples.

— Get colorful. Time to get out of that black shoe rut and put some color on your feet. Choose colors from lavender to mint green, from coral to cobalt blue. There’s nothing boring about these shoes!

— Go wild. Looking for a new “wear with everything” shoe? You can’t go wrong this year with animal print. Whether it’s done in leopard, zebra or snakeskin, animal prints are here to stay right into fall.

— Add socks. Another one of spring’s favorite footwear trends is the Teva-inspired sandal worn with socks. If your feet aren’t quite ready for prime time yet, then this is the look for you.

— Boots, anyone? The cowboy boot is still a classic hit — this time around, in colorful interpretations as well as white, the favorite from last year. Shooties (half shoe, half boot) transition into spring in sheer mesh and braided leather. Watch for combat boots with interesting heels to make an entrance, too.

— Think thin. If you’re looking for shoes to wear to a special event this spring and summer, it’s time to think skinny strappy sandals. The “floss” trend is a break from the chunky soles of seasons past — and, in sling-back sandals, a welcome change for a new season.

— Sneak one in. Athletic footwear continues to evolve from the “dad” sneaker that has been making fashion news for a few years. Now, it’s available in sleek space-age styles that easily move from day to night. The best news of all? Comfort is easy to find — and it looks good, too.

COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

PHOTO CAPTION: Transition into spring with a pair of suede shooties from Sole Society. www.solesociety.com.

By Sharon Mosley

You may have danced the night away on New Year’s Eve, but now it’s time to celebrate Valentine’s Day with a whole new attitude. It’s time to put a little romance into your wardrobe.

The good news is that with a few tips, you can look great and have a wonderful time whether you have a date with a friend you’ve just met or someone you’ve been married to for 30 years. Remember that romance never goes out of style.

“The best part of a date is getting ready for it,” says Winona Dimeo-Ediger, one of my favorite style experts and the author of “Closet Confidential: Style Secrets Learned the Hard Way” (Sasquatch Books, 18.95). Dimeo-Ediger urges you to “Bask in the untainted anticipation while you primp and pamper yourself and really have fun with the process of getting ready.”

Here are Dimeo-Ediger’s top tips on dressing for first dates, last dates and every date in between:

— Do be comfortable. That’s tip No. 1, according to this author and blogger. “You have to feel good in the clothes you’re wearing” in order to be a “good date,” she says. “Believe it or not you don’t look your best while pulling down the hem of your dress every five minutes or trying to subtly nurse a monster blister between cocktails.” And who hasn’t been there, done that thanks to short, short dresses and high, high heels?

— Do be yourself. First-timers beware. “This is especially important for first dates,” admits Dimeo-Ediger. “If you normally wear ripped jeans and plain T-shirts, don’t squeeze yourself into a bouncy pink dress for a date. A nice pair of jeans and a pretty blouse will look just as gorgeous and most importantly, you’ll look and feel like you.” She adds: “When you’re meeting with a potential lover, wear nicer versions of your normal clothes, and take a shower.”

— Don’t be afraid of color. Take a cue from celebrities who are wearing more and more color on the red carpet: Bold hues are becoming standout choices for dress-up occasions. “If black is truly your trademark, then rock the all-black outfit, but don’t let it become your safe choice,” suggests Dimeo-Ediger. “Black may be slimming, but blue and red and green and purple are beautiful and memorable.” (Who was everyone talking about in the gorgeous blue Valentino dress at the Golden Globes? Lady Gaga, of course!) “Make a decision to stand out and see how it affects your mood and your date.”

— Don’t wait to buy a formal dress until you need a formal dress. How many of us find ourselves running from store to store on the day of the big date frantically searching for the perfect outfit? Dimeo-Ediger suggests making a habit of shopping the formalwear sale racks whenever you are buying “mundane” things like jeans. “You’re sure to find an affordable gem that will have you itching for a formal invite to somewhere, anywhere!”

— Do have a go-to special occasion outfit. “Your go-to outfit doesn’t need to be new or particularly flashy,” Dimeo-Ediger says. It could be that cliche-but-fabulous little black dress or a sleek pantsuit, but it must be easy and versatile. “Don’t forget the power of accessories here,” she adds. “Throw on a simple, stylish base (like that LBD) for anything from a garden wedding to a presidential inauguration and add opera gloves or flip-flops accordingly.”

And yes, you may have to wait on those flip-flops for a few months, too!
COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

By Sharon Mosley

Chances are you’re not yet quite ready to shop for spring clothes. You’re probably still snuggled up in your heavy sweaters and sweatpants, slugging through cold rain and blowing snowstorms. But hey, it is sale time and worth browsing your iPad for some great deals, right? And if you’re really serious about scoring some fashion bargains, you’ll head out to your favorite store even if there’s a blizzard.

But before you Google “sale at Macy’s,” here are some ideas to keep you on budget:

— Shop in your own closet. I know you’ve got cabin fever and you want to hit the streets, but it really pays to assess what you already have at home. Many of us have a strange habit of buying the same thing over and over and over. How many pairs of black leggings do you have?

— Make a list of what you really need. Sounds simple, doesn’t it? But how many times have you wished you had a blouse to go with that long emerald green skirt you bought last year just because it was the color of the year? You may even want to take that skirt with you while you shop to find its perfect mate.

— Replace the basics. No, it’s not as fun as finding that faux fur coat at 75 percent off, but if your old trustworthy trench is getting a little rugged around the edges, this is the perfect time of year to consider replacing it with a newer model. You know classics will always be good investments, especially if you can find them on sale.

— Be prepared. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes when you go shopping. Make sure you wear clothes that you can easily slip on and off. Leave the tight boots at home and wear flats. Suit up like a shopping warrior who means business but wants to have some fun, too.

— Check out apps. There may be plenty of good deals out there, but there are even more online. You can often get extra discounts just by perusing the websites of the stores you intend to visit. When you get coupons in the mail, stick them in your purse immediately so you will have them with you when you go shopping.

— Don’t get overwhelmed. If the racks are brimming over with a tangled mess of clothes, just take your time. Get into the spirit of skimming the hangers for those hidden treasures. I often do this by color. I know I don’t need another pair of black pants, so I just skip over to the next aisle.

— Try the merchandise on for size. This is a step that many of us just want to skip when we are in sale mode with a hundred other shoppers. But it can pay off. How many times have I just “known” without a doubt in my mind that that sweater would definitely fit me only to get it home and realize it swallows me up? Remember, sizes can vary drastically from label to label. So unless you know that you “always” wear a size 8 in a particular designer jean, err on the safe side and try on everything you want to buy, no matter how good a deal it seems.

— Get out of your style rut. Sale time is a great time to re-evaluate your own wardrobe. If you’ve been stuck in a rut, take advantage of buying something a little “outrageous” when it’s marked down. Try something that may not really be “you.” You never know how good it may make you feel … especially when you got it half-price!

— Explore the new season. You may have promised yourself would only shop the sales, but once you’re in the stores, look around! Check out the new spring merchandise that’s bound to be lurking just inside the entrance door. You never know what kind of deal you’ll find … before it goes on sale!

COPYRIGHT 2019 CREATORS.COM

By SHARON MOSLEY

Take time for a deep breath. Then take a stroll down the spice aisle, inhaling the exotic aromas — from pungent turmeric to zesty pepper to fresh sage — that have inspired the colors of a spirited fashion season. Here’s a list of the newest spicy hues to add to your clothes rack in the new year.

–Not-so-mellow yellow. A current culinary favorite, turmeric, is a favorite color with the fashion crowd. The yellows this spring range in shade from amber to mustard to curry to gold. Wear variations of this color palette from head to toe for an ultrasophisticated look.

–Red-hot cinnamon. The gingery reds and oranges are enlivening our style taste buds with feisty red hues infused with orange. Expect to see a wide range of these desert colors in everything from chile reds to saffron oranges to bright corals. Take a break from the “millennial pinks” of the last few seasons and up your fashion game with the bolder spice tones.

–Going green for 2019. The herbal greens are blooming profusely this spring — in both womenswear and menswear collections. Natural colors for the utilitarian and military trends marching down the runways, soft olive tones are taking the place of the black neutrals for spring. Consider updating a professional wardrobe with a mossy green suit or sage green trench coat.

–Coffee or tea? The earthy browns may be unlikely colors for warmer months, but this year, fashion designers are grounding their collections with darker neutral shades, contrasted with lighter neutrals such as mocha tan, creamy white and vanilla. This spring, stir some of these delicious fashion flavors into your morning style routine.

–Lavender and other news. So, what’s happened to the bold violets of last year? Lady Gaga proved that they are not going anywhere for the moment when she turned up at the Golden Globes in her periwinkle Valentino couture gown with matching hair. Other pastels such as sky blue and candy pink are brighter and bolder and parading down the catwalks in sheer flowing dresses.

–Lime slime. Reminiscent of the ’80s, neon colors are another way to put some zing into your wardrobe this spring. For men and women, the neon colors that glow this spring are lime green, lemon yellow and hot pink. Sprinkle a few of these happy hues into your closet and brighten up the year ahead. Bring back color!

PHOTO CAPTION: Spicy colors flavor the spring/summer 2019 season. Photo from Alexander McQueen’s spring runway show. www.alexandermcqueen.com.

By Sharon Mosley

When you come out of hibernation, there will be plenty of shopping to do for spring. A change of seasons calls for a fresh start to update tried-and-true basics that are sometimes more “tired” than new. Here’s a shopping list of fresh fashion items to try for warmer days ahead:

— Short shorts. Think back to the ’80s and the shorts that showed up on the tennis courts and the city streets. Then came the long and longer board shorts. So, of course, in fashion’s repetitive cycle, the shorter shorts are back. You determine how short … a trend many guys may want to skip this spring!

— Utility vests. Who doesn’t like pockets and more pockets? These military-inspired vests and other jackets may become a favorite new basic in your wardrobe. With all the tech devices we carry around daily, this is one fashion trend that makes sense.

— Double-breasted sport coats. With tailoring making a comeback, the double-breasted jacket can give suits and trousers a debonair twist. In slightly oversized silhouettes, the double-breasted jacket is something to think about adding to your closet of classic staples. And you can decide whether to bare your chest under a suit jacket … another new trend many may want to pass on.

— Leather anything. This is one trend you can start wearing now! Leather biker jackets, leather vests, leather trousers … wear them separately or all together from head to toe. Embossed leather in snakeskin prints is also trending. This is the way to take your wardrobe into the rock star category — or at least give traditional clothing more of a stage presence.

— The patterned shirt. If you’ve been a stripes and checks kind of guy for the past few years, it may be time to give that up for a shirt with an artistic vibe. Think graphic patterns in colorful prints that will make your stonewashed jeans, leather pants or even suits come alive.

— The trench coat. This is your new overcoat for spring. In slightly slouchy shapes, the trench coat, especially in earthy tan or sage green colors, will be a go-to for years to come. The trench is easy to dress up or down with casual denim or more tailored pieces.

— Retro add-ons. What’s old is new again: tie-dye prints, Day-Glo neons and lots of updates on the ’90s grunge trend. Neoprene shines in patent pants, and chunky dad sneakers and white socks are still going strong.

— More accessory add-ons. Don’t forget all the new extras! Accessories are the easiest way to update your favorite basics. From bucket hats to cycling sunglasses to “necklace” bags, cowboy boots and hiking sandals, these fashion signs all lead the way to sunny days ahead. Start your browsing now.

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