Lifestyles

by: Sharon Mosley

With spring right around the corner, now is the time to take stock of your closet and think about adding some new clothes and accessories that will give your wardrobe a new edgy look. There are lots of bargains in the stores and new items are arriving every day. Don’t be too practical. Have some fun. Let that inner glam rocker roll with the tough stuff. Take your style list and start checking it off:

— First, add some distressed denim. Holes or not, it’s up to you, but the latest way to do jeans is down and dirty. A pair of denim leggings teamed up with a studded bomber jacket and high heels is a rockin’ way to hit the spring fashion stage.

— Grab some studs. The heavy metal is out in full force this season. Whether it’s a casual studded tank top or a handbag trimmed with grommets or a gladiator sandal sprinkled with silver metal beads, hardware is the trendy way to go this spring.

— Zip it up. Another way to rock your wardrobe with an edgy flair: zippers. Look for dresses, tops and accessories with exposed zippers. These are meant to be seen. The bigger the better!

— Add some leather. Even when the weather turns warmer, leather is still a great way to put an extra dose of tough love in your closet. Instead of dark and dreary, brighten up a leather bomber jacket in a soft neutral color (pearlized white or cream tones really rock) and pair it with a girly ruffled blouse.

— Chain, chain, chain. Yes, chains are all the rage … from long strands of metal chain necklaces to chain straps on handbags and shoes … put some chains of love in your fashion life. I’ve collected lots of silver, pewter and black necklaces to pile on this spring. I’ll add white in the summer.

— Go utilitarian. Military chic is another way to give your wardrobe a trendy touch this spring. Think cargo-style shorts and capris. In distressed denim, they really go over the edge.

— Mix it up! Take your feminine pieces — sheer tops, pencil skirts and sundresses — and give them a twist. Top them off with “tougher” items: boyfriend-style jackets, patterned “Grandpa” cardigan sweaters and denim vests.

— Supersize it. Nothing says “over the top” more than a few accessories that are on steroids — statement necklaces with large stones, bracelets with leather bands or handbags with huge buckles. Think big. It only takes one item to make this fashion scene rock.

— Never forget the shoes. Another accessory that can make or break a look. This spring, strappy metallic heels, studded wedges, ankle cuff flats and open-toe booties all rock when finished off with edgy hardware.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2010 CREATORS.COM

by: Maggie Reed

It can be art or furniture. Actually, it is both. The Art-Deck-Oh! furniture line offers an innovative, interlocking design that allows four deck chairs and one table to be stacked together. It creates an unique space-saving unit that is as pleasant to look at as the separated pieces are to sit on and entertain by.

The geometry of the Art-Deck-Oh! and the modern design features add a wow factor to your deck, backyard, patio or balcony. The finely-woven wicker has a laboratory-tested, environmentally friendly, all-weather resin designed to resist fading and damage due to ultraviolet exposure.

And don’t worry if you live in the Northeast or the Southwest: They can withstand temperature changes from below freezing to the hottest summer days for comfortable seating year-round.

The welded, all-aluminum frames will not rust — it is powder-coated for additional protection as well as for beauty.

The innovative design of Art-Deck-Oh! incorporates the need for space- saving products that are both stylish and functional. They also blend into any environment, either as an accent piece or the main focus.

Designed to blend with any decor, the cushions are dual sided, sturdy yet comfy. Each Art-Deck-Oh! furniture assemble comes with a tailored rain cover to protect and extend the beauty and longevity of the pieces.

By Deeco Consumer Products, the furniture is offered in Geo-Vase, Geo-Globe and Deck-Cetera. Each piece of the wicker furniture is backed with a two- year, all-inclusive manufacturer’s warranty. Each set comes with four chairs, four cushions and one coffee table.

Prices range from $900 to $1,500. For more information, call 888-993-3326 or visit www.deecocp.com.

SANIDOOR

It’s a disturbing fact that only 43 percent of men and 54 percent of women wash their hands after using the restroom. Eliminating the germs spread by bathroom doors is Sanidoor, a touch-free door opening system.

Doors equipped with the Sanidoor system open with a simple wave of the hand, much like hands-free faucets and towel dispensers you may have in your home.

Currently popular in many restaurants and businesses in Florida, they are now being launched throughout North America with a new second-generation system that will also feature models developed specifically for swinging doors and single-use locking public restrooms.

Sanidoor can be retrofitted to any swinging door in public, commercial and business settings, including restaurants, hotels, stores, hospitals, health care facilities, city buildings and more.

Approved to meet all U.S. and Canadian standards for automatic door openers, Sanidoor easily installs on existing doors as well as new construction. It is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and includes safety measures for impediment and entrapment protection.

Internationally patented and trademarked, the Sanidoor system retails for $850 plus $200 to $300 for installation by a professional electrician.

For more information, call 800-930-7264 or visit www.sanidoor.com.

Art-Deck-Oh! allows four deck chairs and one table to be stacked together to create a unique, space-saving unit. Photo courtesy of Deeco Consumer Products.
Wave germs away with the Sanidoor. Photo courtesy of Sanidoor.

Maggie Reed may be reached at trocar2000@hotmail.com. To find out more about Maggie Reed and other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2010 CREATORS.COM

By: Sharon Mosley

Does this make me look fat? Who hasn’t uttered those words on one or two occasions? (Especially, if you’re standing in front of those dressing-room mirrors on steroids!) No matter what your size — or your age — we all want to look our best.

And yes, there are some real secrets to slimming down on the fashion front. This season, Sher Canada, Chico’s style expert, offers her tips on new ways to shape up and look fabulous. Here are some of her best bets when it comes to slimming down for spring:

— Start with column dressing. This is one of my personal favorite tips that I’ve used in my own wardrobe for years. Simply put, it’s wearing the same color on top and bottom — then topping it off with a great cardigan or jacket and wonderful accessories. My basic “column” pieces are usually black, but in the spring, it’s time to lighten up, according to Canada. Column dressing “creates a longer, leaner look, even in white,” she says. Metallic silver and gray is my alternative to black in the spring.

— Style it, girls! OK, you’ve got to work it a little bit. Come on, you can do it! Canada says to push up those sleeves, wear heels with your slim-leg jeans and pile on the jewelry. It’s the little things that mean the most when it comes to creating a stylish spring look, even when you’re wearing the most classic clothes. Try teaming oversized accessories with your professional suits for a more up-to-date style.

— Throw in a trend. You can do this, too! Update your wardrobe with at least one new trendy item that suits your own fashion personality. Canada suggests the “modern-in-the-moment, must-have pant” on the spring horizon: “an incredibly comfortable cargo that’s chic with satin.” And the jean du jour? A slim-leg, zippered ankle jean.

— Balance is critical. Hopefully, you’ve already figured out what “proportions” look good on you. Cropped jackets over flared pants? Long, soft tops over skinny pants? Then tweak your favorite pieces and take it to the next level: “The key is the high-low rule,” says Canada. “Build your look around a single star piece, and balance it with basics.”

— Get energized with color. No, you don’t have to wear black to feel slim and trim in your clothes. Break out of that style rut and mix it up a little bit … even if you wear a pop of a purple sequin tank and cardigan over your black pants. Citron is another way to give your wardrobe an unexpected twist: “Citron always looks fresh with white and silver,” says Canada. Another colorful tip? “Match colored denim with a patterned novelty jacket to look perfect but not planned,” adds Canada.

— Accessories shape up. Yes, you can wear a belt and get the lean look, too. “Think you’ve lost your waistline?” asks Canada. “Think again.” She suggests experimenting with “slouch” belts hooked on top of your stomach — “not too high, not too low. The slight dip will slim your waistline,” she says. Stretch or chain belts are great when worn underneath a shirt or jacket to show off the buckle and hide the elastic.

— Scarf it up! We all seem to have problems on the way to wearing a scarf. But I personally have dozens in my wardrobe. Talk about a way to add a lot of personality and variety to those basic “column” pieces! Canada advises wearing scarves in a natural way: “You want a scarf to look as if it just fell into place — even if it didn’t.” She also finds that uneven ends form a slimming vertical line. “Even ends cut you in half.” So, if you only buy one accessory this spring, make it a scarf. It’s instant glamour!

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2010 CREATORS.COM

By: Sharon Mosley

Romance isn’t limited to just chocolates and champagne. How about a little lace to go with it? This is the perfect time of year to flirt a little bit with your wardrobe. Send a message of love to your inner style diva. A ruffle here, a strappy sandal there, and the woman in workout sweats is instantly transformed into a ravishing romantic.

Here are a few essentials to give your wardrobe a dose of stylish romance, even if your favorite go-to outfit is jeans and a T-shirt:

— Anything with ruffles. They’re a trendy must-have this spring, and you’ll find ruffles cascading down shirts, skirts and soft cardigan sweaters. Anything that gives a flash of flutter can only make you feel a little more feminine.

— A swirly skirt. Think fluid fabrics like chiffon, rayon or silk in a flippy style that hits above the knee. A-lines are always figure-flattering, but short pencil skirts can also add that “sexy secretary” feel to your wardrobe.

— A wrap dress. Slinky is the name of the game for this classic popularized by Diane Von Furstenberg years ago. In solid black or red jersey, it’s always a winner; in geometric or floral prints, it’s not so serious.

— A silk or satin camisole. Lingerie-inspired, these “under” garments are the romantic way to give your “professional” jackets and sweaters a touch of romance. And you can give this item as much “play” as you want, showing off great accessories, such as an attention-getting statement necklace.

— Sequined tanks. A little bit of sparkle goes a long way. See above.

— Anything lace. Lace is another fabric that has always had romantic connotations. Whether you wear it in a top layered over a camisole or on a pair of slip-on mules, it hints of sophisticated glamour with an air of mystery that any drama queen would love.

— Animal prints. Grrrrrr … these still roar when it comes to choosing a foxy look. Often you only need a touch of the feline print — a patent animal-print pump, faux fur cuffs on a sweater or a chic cheetah clutch — to pull off a stylish look with more fashion flair.

— A sheer blouse. The perfect layering piece for a romantic wardrobe, the transparent chiffons, organzas or georgettes give you lots of options. Add some ruffles, and you have double trouble.

— Silk flowers. The big and bold necklace may be a hit on the fashion trend scene this year, but there are a few other “late bloomers” that are growing in popularity out there, too. One large silk flower, in a pretty lilac or rose color pinned onto a lapel or even a strand of pearls, can really turn you into a modern Victorian.

— Heels. Whether it’s a pair of sky-high gladiator sandals or a modest pair of kitten heel slides, dress your shoe wardrobe up with something other than flip-flops and sneakers. High-heel boots can also be a romantic addition to your wardrobe, especially in soft suede. Skip the clunky clogs that are hitting the stores this spring.

— Sexy stockings. Ooh, la, la. Teamed with long tunic tops or short skirts, sheer hosiery or patterned tights can add that extra dose of romance to any outfit. Try them in bright colors for even more pizzazz.

— Stones that sparkle. Hey, they may hang from your ears or decorate your fingers. But if you can find only one major piece of bling, turn on the lights and fight fire with fire!

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2010 CREATORS.COM

By: Sharon Mosley

It’s not just Hollywood celebrities who have red carpet moments. Hopefully, we all will have a few of those “golden” glamorous times in our own lives, whether it’s a wedding, a bat mitzvah or a gala charity event. But if anyone can give us some tips on making the most of those “red carpet moments” when they do come our way, it’s Melissa Rivers, who through the years has witnessed the performance of hundreds of celebrities on their big day (or night)!

In her new book, “Red Carpet Ready: Secrets for Making the Most of Any Moment You’re in the Spotlight” (Harmony, $22.99), Rivers gives us some surprisingly personal insights into the life lessons she has learned from her experiences growing up in Los Angeles and sharing the red carpet and TV cameras with her infamous mother, comedienne Joan Rivers.

“What I’ve learned in watching thousands of celebrities have their red carpet moments,” Rivers says, “is that nobody turns in a star performance in the spotlight by accident.” And she admits that while it’s critical to “be comfortable in your own skin,” and “show grace under pressure” and “be nice on the way up,” she has also found that “every woman cares about looking great when she’s having a red carpet moment. Appearance matters.”

In a season of awards shows, here are a few of Melissa Rivers’ fashion pointers that we can keep in mind:

— Don’t let the dress wear you. “When you know an outfit isn’t right for you,” she says, “it’s impossible to carry yourself with the confidence that makes you truly gorgeous. You look self-conscious and everybody knows it.”

— Weep once; buy quality. “My uncle always said, ‘Buy quality and weep once.’ That means the price might be a shock to your credit card, but you won’t suffer the extra pain of having to replace what you bought in a year because you went cheap. There’s nothing wrong with saving money, and it’s not a bad idea to bargain-hunt for something you’re going to wear only a few times, but you’ll never go wrong spending on quality for the go-to items in your wardrobe.”

— Take care of your shoes. “Nothing ruins your put-together look like shoes that are battered, scuffed or just old-looking,” says Rivers. “It’s so easy to clean and polish any decent pair of shoes that I’m amazed more women don’t take the time.”

— Test-drive your haircut. “Leave nothing to chance,” cautions Rivers. “If you’re going to try a daring new cut, test it out a few weeks beforehand. That way, if what looked so good in the salon turns out in daylight to look like a dead cat sitting on your head, you can have some time to make changes.”

— Make important changes before panic time. Forget losing 10 pounds two weeks before the big event, says Rivers. “Instead, prepare for the spotlight months in advance with a healthy lifestyle: good diet, exercise routine, skin care and so on. That way, you can approach your red carpet moment knowing that you look healthy and radiant, and you’ll have the confidence that comes with knowing that you look healthy and radiant, and you’ll have the confidence that comes with knowing you’re as prepared as you can be.”

— Flaunt what you’ve got. While Rivers admits that there are some celebrities who look good in anything they wear, most of us “have to dance with the body that brung us.” But that doesn’t mean you can’t look your best when you find yourself in the fashion spotlight. “Everybody has something about them that’s exceptional,” she says. “Figure out what that is for you and work it.”

— “Be a well, not a fountain.” One of my favorite chapter in Rivers’ surprisingly thoughtful book deals with showing grace under pressure: “Until you’ve walked down a few red carpets in someone else’s designer pumps, don’t assume you know what they’re dealing with … Don’t spill your guts to everyone you meet about how much life sucks at the moment. Everyone is carrying their own baggage, and they don’t appreciate the weight of yours. Have some good people in your life whom you can lean on, and be stoic and brave to the rest of the world.” Now that’s a great piece of red carpet advice for all of us.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2010 CREATORS.COM

By: Sharon Mosley

If you’ve never worn jeans, then this is the year to make a new resolution: Find a pair of these “do-it-all” fashion staples and give them your own signature style. Forget your age. Forget your size. There’s a jean for everyone and practically every occasion. OK … maybe we won’t see them at the Golden Globe Awards, but these days you never know.

Here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind when wearing denim this year:

— Do buy jeans that fit. The stiff denim jeans are a thing of the past. With new stretch fabric innovations, there’s a pair of jeans to fit even the curviest of figures. You may have to try on several different sizes in different labels, but don’t give up. There is the perfect pair out there. Ask for help from a knowledgeable salesperson. Then when you do find a brand you like, stock up!

— Don’t get stuck wearing the infamous “Mom” jeans. You can win the battle of the bulge without sacrificing style and without spilling out of the top of your jeans into the dreaded “muffin top,” which has plagued many women for years. Look for jeans with waistlines that hit right below the bellybutton for the most flattering silhouette.

— Do consider cut. The skinny jean is still a big fashion trend, but a boot cut is usually more flattering for most body types. And if you do have larger thighs, a trouser style may be your best bet.

— Don’t stick to just one style. Try to incorporate a variety of silhouettes into your wardrobe. You may have one favorite, but jeans can be your best friend when it comes to building a basic wardrobe. This spring, cropped denim is a big trend for the warmer months ahead.

— Do think about shoes. The right shoes or boots can make or break a pair of jeans. Generally speaking, your jeans should cover the heels of your shoes and hit right on top of the front of your shoe. If you need to get them hemmed (and many of us do), have them altered to match the original hem stitching. You will probably find that you will wear different lengths with different shoes — I have a special pair for flats and another pair for heels.

— Do dress your jeans up. Jeans are one of the most versatile basics you can have in your wardrobe. When buying them, think about your lifestyle and buy accordingly: a dressier pair for the office; a more casual pair for the weekends. Darker washes are preferable for dressier occasions and for work.

— Don’t go baggy. There’s nothing worse than a slouchy pair of jeans that hang off your body. You may have broken them in years ago, and they’re the softest things in your closet. But it’s time to get rid of them. Stick to wearing jeans that are sleeker and chicer! You don’t have to go tight, but you do need to remember to buy jeans that fit and may even be a little small for you, since most jeans have a tendency to stretch as you wear them.

— Do get creative. Jeans are the perfect “base” for adding some oomph to your fashion outlook. Experiment with different “trends” and revamp your whole wardrobe. Tuck your skinny jeans into knee-high boots, or jazz up your cropped denims with a pair of strappy sandals. The more creative you get, the more you’ll see how you couldn’t imagine life without your favorite pair of jeans.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.
COPYRIGHT 2010 CREATORS.COM

You’ve spent weeks cleaning out your closet and getting ready for a new year free of fashion clutter. So, now what? What do you do with all those bags of clothes? Do you donate them to the local Goodwill? Give them to friends and family? Or take them to a consignment shop? Or sell them on eBay?

Here are a few tips to help you recycle your wardrobe extras:

— When it’s cold outside, it’s a great time to spend a few hours taking inventory of your closet. Ask yourself what you haven’t worn in the past year — or the year before that — then be ruthless and get it out of your life once and for all. Maybe those sleeves have never really fit you; those buttons have been missing for months; you really do hate that chartreuse green color. Make room for something new. And remember: One woman’s trash is another woman’s treasure. Put it in the giveaway pile.

— After you’ve purged, you have some decisions to make. I usually load my “extras” up in the car and take them to a local charity where I know my clothes will actually be worn by a person in need and not resold. Dress for Success is a favorite charity as well as the American Red Cross.

— If your clothes are in excellent condition, then you may want to consider “reselling” them at a consignment store in your area. Be sure to check out the store’s policies. These policies can vary widely. Many shops only handle high-end merchandise or clothes with designer labels. Ask what percentage of the sale price the store keeps. And remember, if your item does not sell right away, it may be marked down again and again.

Also ask what the store does with unsold clothing. And always make a list of what you have left at the consignment store. Trust me, it’s easy to forget that slinky little cocktail dress that languished at the back of your closet for years, even when it’s at the resale store. Out of sight, out of mind!

— If you’ve decided to finally part with great-aunt Lucille’s fur stole or your grandmother’s rhinestone brooch, then you may want to consider taking it to a consignment store that specializes in selling vintage clothes and accessories. Again, ask friends for a reputable store managed by people who know their “stuff” and can assist you in determining the value of a treasured item.

Also ask about their “terms” — some vintage stores may offer you cash up front, while others operate much in the same way as a consignment store that resells designer clothing.

— Have a swap party. I’ve only been to one of these, but it was interesting. Most of us had more fun sipping cocktails and socializing then actually going home with tons of new clothes. But there are several websites that will get you started on hosting one of these parties — www.wikihow.com or www.ehow.com — and even online fashion swap sites: www.swapstyle.com.

— And then there’s eBay. This international, online auction phenomenon is a treasure trove of fashion finds — new and old. One of my New Year’s resolutions (oops, I forgot to mention this last week!) is to sell one of my black Persian lamb coats on eBay. However, at this point, I’m much more likely to find an authorized “eBay” drop-off store and let them do all the work for me. Now that’s how I like to clean out my closet!

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2010 CREATORS.COM

By: Sharon Mosley

Most of us make resolutions and then break them. But instead of promising that you’re going to lose 20 pounds or walk 10 miles every day, give yourself a style makeover. It’s much easier, and you’ll still feel good about looking even better … then maybe you’ll go for the gym workout.

Here are my top 10 fashion resolutions for the coming year:

— Forget dressing age appropriate. At one of my family’s holiday dinners, a 74-year-old friend burst into the room wearing black leather leggings and boots. She looked fantastic. I vowed then and there to rethink the “age appropriate” thing and try some new things. I invested in a pair of “liquid” satin leggings, stuffed them into my scrunchy suede boots, and wore them to the next holiday party. They were a hit. Of course, I had on a long, knee-length coat over them. No need to get too carried away here.

— Shop for the unique. This is another way to put some new life into a weary wardrobe. When you shop, seek out truly distinctive clothes and accessories. That jacket with the embroidered peacock on the back, the clutch studded with colorful rhinestones or the knee-high tapestry boots. Give yourself some style personality with statement pieces, whether you find them on a department-store sale rack or on a shelf in the back of a vintage store.

— Add more color. Yes, I do say this every year when my daughter comments that I always look the same in our family Christmas photographs … dressed in head-to-toe black. But I did put the black back this season and tried the teal-green velvet thing. It did feel more festive, but I sort of blended into the Christmas tree. Oh, well. Next year, maybe I’ll wear an orange sweater!

— Spike up my hair. Years go by, and I find myself with the same “do” that really needs a little updating. The helmet head has got to go. Time to switch to a new hair plan. I think a few highlights and a few spiky pieces here and there might be in order. Hey, hair does grow back.

— Nail it. This year I plan to have more regular manicures and pedicures. I feel much more “put together” after a professional works their magic on my hands and feet. I’d do them myself, but it never looks quite the same if you know what I mean. While I can’t go with the “green” polish trend, I do think I’ll branch out a little more … maybe that popular new taupey Chanel color — “Particuliere” … hmmm.

— Forget the long skirts. They’re hanging in my closet, dozens of them from years and years ago. Now that I have abandoned them in favor of opaque tights and shorter skirts, it’s time to let go of the frumpy ones (I’ll always keep my long, black velvet fishtail one for formal occasions) and get a leg up on a new look.

— Focus on my skin. This is probably the best time of year to find the perfect skin-care program. Winter is tough on anybody’s face, and I am now in search of a major moisturizer — preferably one with wrinkle reducers and plenty of antioxidants in it. Then there are those neck exercises I’ve been meaning to do.

— Go for the big stuff. With all the eye-catching bling bling out there these days, it’s easy to add a few big baubles to your accessory wardrobe. I’ve always been a sucker for those “little” extras that stack up to a big bang for your buck. I’ve always worn one or two rings all my life. Time for a new flash on the old fingers. This is going to be the decade that I’m going to start collecting huge cocktail rings.

— Buy new lingerie and underwear. I love the old flannel nightgown, but it’s time for a change — and by Valentine’s Day, maybe I will have discovered another option in a bright, sexy red. I think I will finally get myself “measured” by an expert for a new bra this year … the girls just keep heading south, and I don’t think I want to travel that direction with them too much longer.

— Discover some new designers. As a fashion writer, I’m always on the lookout for the next “big” thing. Publicists are great about touting their clients, but it’s even more fun to scout out a new line on my own. My daughter keeps me posted on her favorites; however, I enjoy the thrill of the hunt even more when I stumble across a new name and a new look. Trying new things is always one of the best resolutions you can make — no matter the name on the label.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.
COPYRIGHT 2010 CREATORS.COM

Winter Getaways by: Sharon Mosley

Whether you’re headed for a few days of lounging on a tropical beach or skiing down the mountain slopes, looking good when you arrive at your destination is a fine art, says Andy Paige, style expert and author of “Style on a Shoestring” (McGraw Hill, $16.95, 2009).

“Packing your bag is just like building your wardrobe,” says Paige, who is also the star of TLC’s “Ten Years Younger.” She suggests starting with your wardrobe basics, and then adding tops and accessories that will do double duty when combined with your key pieces.

Here are some of Paige’s style tips on packing for a three-day getaway for fun in the sun:

— Choose a color story, such as white/khaki, black/red, turquoise/brown or gray/yellow, for all of your garments, so everything will coordinate and you can pack fewer shoes and accessories.

— Fabrics should be wash-and-wear, wrinkle-free options that can be hand- washed with a little baby shampoo if need be.

— Every garment packed should serve a dual purpose or be able to be dressed up and dressed down. For example, a flirty skirt should function as a casual skirt with a tank and flip-flops for souvenir shopping as well as a dressier dinner option with heels and a sexy top. A colorful wrap should serve as a sarong for your bathing suit, a nighttime wrap for sun-kissed shoulders and a blankie on the plane. Bermuda shorts should be worn with walking shoes and tanks for sightseeing, then later with strappy heels and a flirty top for a night out.

— Allow yourself three pairs of shoes max. You should travel in a modern feminine walking shoe; pack a strappy heel for night and a sophisticated non-rubber flip- flop for relaxing daytime activities.

— Pack hair accessories, such as a modern headband and/or scarf, to maintain an easy, stylish look that will limit primp time and optimize playtime.

— Choose a refined tankini swimsuit, so you can wear the top with coordinating cropped pants or a skirt.

— Choose strategic accessories like a statement watch, hoop earrings, sunglasses and a coordinating tote bag that will dictate the mood of your outfit.

For a winter getaway, Paige has the following style tips:

— A fitted leather jacket is the foundation of this wardrobe. Choose a feminine style that is sexy, tough, fashionable and functional.

— Choose a solid-color heavy wrap that looks great on top of your jacket. This will add another layer of warmth, and you can also use it on the plane.

— Committing to a color story is a great timesaver. Winter scarves are a good place to start when choosing your getaway wardrobe colors, because they are the perfect fashion topper for all of your weekend looks.

— Choose lightweight layering tops, as opposed to a sack of bulky sweaters. Body-hugging, long-sleeved tees with scoop necklines and thin body-loving turtlenecks offer more warmth and femininity when layered rather than one big sweater.

— Sophisticated jeans play a big part in a wintertime getaway. Choose a dark boot-cut jean that can be dressed up with high-heeled boots and tucked into casual boots for day.

— A button-up cardigan, hoodie or versatile sweater jacket that zips is essential. These pieces are much better for layering than a pullover sweater.

— A slinky, matte jersey dress that falls above the knee is the perfect choice for a wrinkle-free evening out when added to opaque tights, sexy knee-high boots and long, layered necklaces. The shorter length then makes the dress a fun, fashionable statement when worn over a paper-thin turtleneck with heavy leggings and casual boots for day.

— Don’t forget the lace! A lace cami with warm leggings gives you something nice and cozy to sleep in, allowing you to layer under your nighttime looks.

— Choose a great beret or cute knit hat to add more style. Then round out your accessories with statement earrings, a color-complementing watch, a larger evening clutch and long, layering necklaces.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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