By: Sharon Mosley

“It costs us not to look our best,” says Amy Goodman, a fashion expert who has written the newly released book, “Wear This, Toss That!” (Atria Books, 2011, $27). “That’s the premise of my fashion philosophy,” she says. “Every day, believe it or not, clothes can be a saving grace. The bottom line is that we all need to look good. All the time.”

Goodman admits that when we don’t look our best, it costs us in job opportunities, positive first impressions, respect, confidence and self-worth, dates and dollars and lots of dollars.

“Packing your closet with clothes you don’t wear is equivalent to stocking your refrigerator with foods you don’t eat,” she says. “Generally, we turn to clothes as things to throw on and just get us through another day.”

Goodman — who is a frequent contributor to the “Today” show, as well as “The View,” “Good Morning America,” “The Early Show,” CNN and “Movie & a Makeover” — is currently editor at large for Southern Living and fashion trend director for Timex. She thinks many American women have gone “on fashion furloughs” because of body image problems, as well as time and budget restrictions.

“Looking good can jolt you with self-generated power,” she says. “It can shift your paradigm when things aren’t looking up, so you feel stronger.”

Goodman’s strategy is simple and easy. Most of us know that we have a closet full of clothes that never see the light of day. Goodman tells us exactly what to keep and what to “toss.” This is definitely a “must-have” guidebook — complete with resources for where to find relief — for those of us who have gone on fashion “furloughs.”

Here are a few of Goodman’s suggestions for finding the perfect spring top:

— Wear: The quintessential shirt (tailored, feminine and fitted shirts) made with stretch fabric for easy movement. Toss poorly fitting tops with buttons that pull on the torso, causing wrinkles. Her suggestion: Shop Topshop (http://us.topshop.com).

— Wear: A V-neck wrap shirt with a tailored hem, a belted waist, and a neckline that shows some skin. Toss a non-adjustable, sewn-in “wrap” shirt that is made of stiff, unyielding fabric in a blah color with knotting that adds bulk to your bust. Goodman suggests checking out the lace Boob Tube by Miss Oops if your neckline is too revealing (www.missoops.com).

— Wear a sophisticated tank in a vibrant color with ruffles that sweetly frame the neckline. Toss high density ruffles that jam together like bumper-to-bumper traffic, an additional tie that chokes the neck, and thick cuffs that add to a heavy, busty look. Goodman likes the girlie looks at Romeo and Juliet Couture (www.romeoandjulietcouture.com).

— Wear a top with billowing sleeves, known as a blouson. This blouse is comfortable yet defined, and it has details like metallic buttons and slight gathers around the neckline. Toss the oversized knit pullovers that have batwing sleeves. “This pirate-style top offers little justices to any maiden,” says Goodman. She suggests checking out Newport News for front-tie silk blouses (www.newport-news.com).

— Wear a tastefully revealing one-shoulder top with a streamlined neck, which lies flat in a metallic print for fashion fun. Toss an off-the-shoulder blouse with a neckline that makes you look too wide on top and too narrow on the bottom. Goodman’s best bets are at Ann Taylor (www.anntaylor.com) and LC Lauren Conrad and Elle, exclusively at Kohl’s (www.kohls.com).

— Wear the ultimate day-to-night top: a fitted tank that has necklaces sewn into the garment or around the neckline. Doff a cardigan, and you’re ready for happy hour. Toss a densely sequined top that refracts light like a disco ball and makes people stop in their tracks — because they’re blinded by the bright color. Goodman suggests the latest looks at www.mellies.com or www.shopstyle.com.

— Wear a slimming sweater of medium weight that hits just past the hip, with a V-neck to show some skin and a mid-length sleeve. Check out Uniglo (www.uniglo.com). Toss the overly chunky, overly detailed, heavy knit sweater that makes you look stuffed like after Thanksgiving dinner, with an unattractive zip funnel neck.

— Wear a long cardigan that hits past hips in a deep shade or versatile neutral. Choose one with flat pockets in a medium fabric that hangs gracefully over curves. Toss undefined long-sleeve wraps in drab colors that look more like an airplane blanket than an article of clothing. Check out sweaters at Boutique to You (www.boutiquetoyou.com).

— Wear an unexpected twinset. Pair a contrast trim cardigan with a thin, simple underlying layer that lies flat on the body. Toss matchy-matchy twinsets in cheap prints and synthetic materials that both age and pale your complexion. “Think beyond the perfect pair and separate the twins,” says Goodman. “The knitted tank or sweater can stand alone in warmer temperatures and can be paired with long necklaces, while the cardigan can be layered on top of other separates.”

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 2011 CREATORS.COM

By: Rose Bennett Gilbert

Q: Our entry hall is dark like a tunnel and not at all welcoming. We are thinking of replacing the old wood front door with one that has glass, but ours is a neighborhood just beginning the process of gentrification, if you get my drift. Glass may not be the smartest idea. Any other thoughts?

A: There are other ways to let there be light at the end of your “tunnel.” As security is a consideration — I do get your drift — you might consider adding a window over the door rather than in it. The cost of such a small renovation may not be much more than the price of a new security door anyway.

Make the new window a graceful arch, and you can dress it as elegantly as the one in the pictured hallway. It’s part of a new collection of man-made wood-look shutters (NewStyle hybrids from Hunter Douglas). In this case, “hybrid” translates to mean a man-made material that can stand up to the dramatic temperature challenges that any window is subjected to: warm on the inside and cold on the exterior. Learn more at www.hunterdouglas.com.

If structural remodeling is beyond your current budget, there are sill attractive ways to brighten your entry hall. Upgrade the ceiling fixture with a multi-branched hanging light.

Install sconces on the side walls. Hang a large mirror — no, make that two mirrors, one on each side, to really multiply the illusion of light and space.

Lay a light-colored runner on the floor. Install wallpaper with a bright print, even a Mylar (reflective) background. And by all means, use high-gloss paint on the hall ceiling, the better to ricochet available light all around the entryway.

Q: Is it a bad idea to use black paint our master bath’s walls? I’ve fallen in love with an all-black bath that we saw on a house tour. My husband is horrified at the thought. What do you think?

A: I think you’re flirting with design danger. Not because black walls are necessarily scary in themselves — white fixtures will pop dramatically against such a background — but because you’re trespassing on a natural law of color: it bounces.

For example, paint your dining room red, and everyone looks healthy and robust. That’s because the warm color ricochets off the walls and onto everyone in the room.

The same thing happens in a bath — only more so, because the lighting is always much brighter and stronger. Savvy to the caprices of color, professional interior designers never suggest green for their clients’ bathroom walls. Who wants to look bilious first thing every morning?

Better to paint your bedroom walls black — you’ll sleep better in the dark, according to Clodagh, the organic designer known for her Zen-like spas. For your bath, choose a color, any other color, that becomes you. I promise you’ll feel better in the morning.

Rose Bennett Gilbert is the co-author of “Manhattan Style” and six other books on interior design. To find out more about Rose Bennett Gilbert and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Website at creators.com.

COPYRIGHT 2011 CREATORS.COM.

By: Sharon Mosley

As the snow piles up and the spring thaw seems frozen in place for a few more months, it’s time to break out of winter’s chill and open up your closet to a colorful warm-up. Wake up to hot pink. Chill out to cool coral. Fire up with ravishing red. These are the colors of a new season.

“The colors designers have chosen for the spring season present an interesting marriage of unexpected warm and cool tones,” says Leatrice Eiseman, executive director of the Pantone Color Institute.

“By cleverly combining complementary colors — those that are opposites on the color wheel — they have created a striking intensity in the palette. These unique color combinations make it possible for consumers to pair existing pieces in colors traditionally associated with fall with new favorites to punch up springtime wardrobes.”

Eiseman notes that designers have taken their color cues for spring from exotic destinations like Africa, India, Peru and Turkey to satisfy a consumer’s need to escape everyday challenges with intriguing color combinations that transport them to foreign lands.

“The exotic locales of Marrakech and Morocco that inspired the bohemian influences of Yves Saint Laurent in the ’70s,” says Ken Downing, fashion director of Neiman Marcus. “Hot corals and deep pinks punctuated with brilliant blues ignite the carefree spirit of the coming season.”

And what is THE color of the new year? Pantone has named it “Honeysuckle.”

“Flirtatious Honeysuckle is a feel-good hue that brings a festive sense of playfulness to this season’s palette,” says Eiseman. “This vibrant pinkish-red for both apparel and cosmetics makes consumers feel alive, and it’s a post-winter pick-me-up.”

“In times of stress, we need something to lift our spirits,” she adds. “Honeysuckle is a captivating, stimulating color that gets the adrenaline going — perfect to ward off the winter blues.” The ‘new’ color goes beyond the traditional pastel pink.

“Honeysuckle derives its positive qualities from a powerful bond to its mother color red, the most physical, viscerally alive hue in the spectrum.”

The trendy color derives its name from the reddish pink blossoms of the honeysuckle flower. “Honeysuckle may also bring a wave of nostalgia for its associated delicious scent reminiscent of the carefree days of spring and summer,” adds Eiseman.

And you can expect to see this hot pink showing up not only in eye-catching apparel for men and women. How about a new pink tie for your “honey” or a new pashmina scarf for yourself? Consider making the intense color part of your wedding plans. You can find “Honeysuckle” wedding attendant apparel and accessories at Dessy, a manufacturer of bridesmaid, social occasion and flower girl dresses.

You’ll even see the striking color in home accessories — patterned pillows, bedspreads, small appliances and tabletop accessories. And if you’re looking for an inexpensive way to perk up your living spaces, why not use the energetic color to brighten up a wall in your kitchen or hallway? This spring, it’s time to smell the honeysuckle and think pink!

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 2011 CREATORS.COM

Sharon Mosley

Chances are that you bought a new pair of skinny jeans or a faux fur vest or something at least a “little” trendy to add to your wardrobe this past year. And if you’re not into edgy style, then you were in luck, too. The classics were back in a big way: camel coats, menswear suits and glamorous full skirts.

Here are the top 10 trends of the year. If you’re lucky, you may find them on sale at a store near you.

— One: Skinny pants. The slim silhouette anchored the bottom half of the fashion story in 2010 with “jeggings” — jeans that look like leggings, another big hit of the year. Knit leggings also made the top list.

— Two: Boots. From ankle “shooties” to thigh highs, boots were the new “shoe” to buy this past fall. Tucked into leggings, they were a wardrobe must-have for young and old.

— Three: Camel. This classic color replaced black as the “go-with-everything” neutral in your wardrobe. From camel coats to camel handbags, this was the color to start it all off. Gray was another neutral that got into gear this year.

— Four: Red. On its own or as an accent to camel or gray, this fiery hue packed a passionate punch. The little red dress was a big hit for the holiday season.

Five: Military might. Whether it was combat boots, storm trooper coats or fatigue jackets, the military touches marched into our closets with style. Even the guys got in on this trend.

— Six: Animal prints. Another classic that gave flair to everything from spotted tote bags to trench coats. Spark it with red. One touch of animal print goes a long way.

— Seven: Fur. Real or faux, the fur was flying this past year. It was the perfect way to fluff up your wardrobe. The fur vest was a favorite; it’s the perfect topper for sweaters this winter.

— Eight: Chunky knits. A great way to wrap up for the cold weather ahead, sweaters made a bold statement in longer tunics and vests — great complements to skinny leggings and boots. The classic Fair Isle was updated in new colors, and the “sweatshirt” top was reinvented for even more comfort.

— Nine: Ladylike luxe. Reminiscent of Dior’s “New Look” in the late 1940s and early 1950s, the full skirt made a comeback, as did bow blouses, fitted jackets and shapely dresses a la “Mad Men.” Toss on pearls, grab your gloves and clutch, and you’ve got the picture.

— Ten: And the rest of the story. There were lots of other trends to hit the fashion radar screen in 2010, including pixie haircuts, socks with all kinds of shoes, floppy hats, “nerd” glasses via Tina Fey and Johnny Depp, winter shorts worn with tights, and black leggings teamed with light-colored shoes.

Love them or leave them. There’s always next year! But there’s still plenty of time to add a top 10 look to your shopping list and hit the after-holiday sales.

(set image) smo122810adAP.jpg (end image) (set caption) The top 2010 trends included military-inspired fashion and accessories, such as this gray trench coat and camouflage scarf from Banana Republic. (end caption)

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

Think Cher and Christina Aguilera are the only ones who can star in a “Burlesque” movie? Think again. You can create your own showgirl style this New Year’s Eve with just a few glamorous touches. Be discreet? No way!

Take it from Liz Goldwyn, the author of “Pretty Things: The Last Generation of American Burlesque Queens” (It Books, $19.99).

“For the burlesque queen, the single most important contributing factor to her success was an elaborate wardrobe,” says Goldwyn, who spent eight years researching this lavish history of an era when the hourglass figure was in vogue and striptease was a true art form. “Headlining stars were meticulously made up and costumed in order to transform into sex goddesses onstage.

“Designers interpreted the optical illusion of nudity through creative use of beadwork, sequins and netting, often tricking the audience into believing they were seeing more flesh than was actually being exposed.”

Goldwyn cites the story of Sally Rand, a burlesque queen known for her “fan” dance. She appeared to be completely bare except for her giant ostrich feather fans, but she was actually wearing a flesh-colored bodysuit. “Burlesque queens made their stage entrances in full evening regalia,” says Goldwyn, “sometimes replete with headpiece, gloves and cape.”

Well, you don’t have to wear a nude-colored bodysuit to get attention this holiday season. But you can take a few cues from the burlesque queens — past and present — to make a memorable entrance at any holiday party. Here are a few ways to “spice up” your festive attire:

— Fly with feathers. Try a touch of feathers, whether it’s trim on a scarf or a headpiece or even the hem of a skirt. Feathers can fluff up any outfit and give it an exotic twist. Sally Rand may have had her “fan,” but you can get the same effect by just throwing a feather boa around your neck for the evening.

— Add more fluff. Fur is all the rage this fall and winter, so you can’t go wrong when you wrap up in a Tibetan lamb coat or faux fur leopard cape. Real or faux, fur goes a long way in dressing up any outfit. One of the best buys I ever made was a long, black, curly lamb scarf by Adrienne Landau at Saks Fifth Avenue. I toss it on over anything and everything, and it instantly jazzes up what I’m wearing.

— Step out in twinkle toes. The word is “shine” when it comes to shoes. Yes, the higher the heel, the more sexy the shoe … but you don’t have to trip all over yourself to sparkle in your footwear this holiday season. Think metallic or sequins in ballet flats.

— Paint your nails. Now is the perfect time to check out some of the new “glittery” nail colors. OPI has a new “Burlesque” collection filled with colorful, gleaming choices flecked with sparkling choices.

— Get a leg up. We all know that legs are a showgirl’s best assets (well, maybe just one of them), but they can be easily dressed up this holiday season with some of the newest tights sprinkled with jewels and appliqued designs. Fishnets are definitely more of the burlesque queen’s choice, however. Check out www.hue.com for more inspiration.

— Jewels, darling! OK, diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but I say, the bigger the costume jewelry, the better. My mother’s 1950s rhinestone brooch has always been a big hit, and it’s a holiday staple in my wardrobe. So is a huge sterling-silver floral pin I found at T.J. Maxx. I also collect lots of necklaces. Pile them on to get more bling for the buck.

And yes, whether you are a burlesque queen or not, you also deserve to have some showstoppers in your wardrobe any time of the year. Now is the time to step up and step out, girlie girls!

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

The stakes are higher than usual for charismatic R&B vocal star Usher, who launched his eight-week, 25-city “OMG” tour in Seattle on Nov. 10.

His two new albums, “Vs.” and “Raymond v. Raymond,” both released this year, are arguably the least inspired efforts of his career, artistically speaking. Both are weighed down by generic ballads and dial-by-number dance jams that make him sound distracted, if not disinterested.

While both albums have done well on the charts and yielded hit singles — including “OMG’s” heavily Auto-Tuned title track — Usher’s star power has been eclipsed by his 16-year-old protege, Justin Bieber, whose career Usher played a major role in launching.

“I’m very proud. I’m very, very proud of the success that we’ve had,” Usher, speaking during a recent national teleconference, said of his work with Bieber.

“The type of foundation we’ve developed, that all artists strive for — we want some type of substance there, you know, to continue to grow. I’m invested in it. The integrity of what I recognized in him as an artist. He has not ever compromised, and he is an artist that continues to grow and that he as an artist is properly relating to his audience.

“I’m very proud though, man. You know, I think that with a new wave of entertainers that are up and coming, and I just wanted to make a contribution that I felt like would to definitely help to grow Bieb’s business.”

Of course, Usher (himself a former teen-pop star of sorts) has had a lot on his mind besides Bieber these past few years.

Born Usher Raymond IV, the Texas native got married in 2007 to Tameka Foster. Their son, Usher Raymond V, was born later that year and a second son, Naviyd, was born in 2008. Usher and his wife divorced in 2009.

His marriage and divorce received intense scrutiny from the media and from myriad fans online. Ditto his decision to fire his mother as his personal manager. Many fans that weighed in, almost nonstop, seemed angry he had dared to marry an “older woman,” let alone one with several kids from a previous marriage.

“Well, there really is no privacy,” Usher said. “I always tell my fans believe half of what you see and none of what you hear, until you hear it from me.”

“Raymond v. Raymond” was billed as an intensely personal “tell-all” work about the dissolution of Usher’s marriage. But apart from a few token songs of mild reflection, he sounds happier to celebrate his once-again single status and lover-man mystique than to engage in the naked introspection that inspired such classic breakup albums as Marvin Gaye’s “Here, My Dear,” Bob Dylan’s “Blood On The Tracks” and Beck’s “Sea Change.”

Then again, maybe introspection is passe. On his song “Lil Freak,” which features current R&B and hip-hop sensation Nicki Minaj, Usher remedies his post-marriage blues with a tryst, with two women who are into each other at least as much as they are into him. The “Vs.” album is even more threadbare.

The big question, then: Can Usher, who earlier in his career seemed like a strong candidate to partly fill the void left by Michael Jackson, still bring it on stage? Usher, not surprisingly, is confident he can still bring it on stage, with more dancing and high-tech razzle-dazzle than ever.

“This is a more technical show than my normal show, in terms of the staging,” Usher said during his recent teleconference.

“While choreography has always been, you know, the main way — the best way for me to articulate myself on stage — there is a lot of screen content, and also a few remarkable moments that I’ve built into the show … A lot of time and technical practice has gone into it. So expect a show that’s above and beyond what you normally would get from Usher.

“You know, live performance has always been my thing. It’s my purpose to master and capture the moment every time I have you connected. For me, you know, I wanted to make sure that it was state of the art …

“I wanted to make sure that, in comparison to the other shows that are going on around the world, you get the type of experience that leaves you saying ‘OMG’.”

And who, exactly is Usher’s target audience? The best answer might well be another question: Who isn’t?

“These concerts are welcoming to all families, all men and women, everybody. I want to say this about my music and about my musical experience, period … Now as I look back over my full catalog of music, I feel like I’m at that point where everybody in the family can come to my show. Everybody in the family can come to this show and enjoy something.”

As for his concert repertoire, Usher is aiming to appeal to as many tastes as possible.

“You know, I think some songs are a lot more intimate and R&B, some songs are very much pop and New Age,” he said. “Some songs are very specific for the club. Some songs are every specific for the experience. So everybody gets something.

“The younger audience, they get a chance to hear some of my classic music, you know. For the older audience, they get a chance to hear and feel something they might not necessarily would go for. My point is to artistically take people on a journey they might not otherwise be able to experience, meaning the dance (component) and everything that I’ve created that has been planned for this tour.

“You know, a lot of it is pulled from all over the world, different styles of dance. The musical experience, it pulls from all over the world. The visual experience I pulled from a lot of things that I’ve seen in my inspiration of videos and also my inspirations for directors. So, I pulled all that stuff together to give people this ultimate, ‘OMG’ experience.”

To find out more about George Varga 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

Does the thought of your Mom’s homemade pumpkin pie make your thighs giggle? Or Aunt Sally’s rum banana pudding make those belly rolls do an extra flip flop? If so, then join the season when we all think we have a little (or a lot) of something to hide. And forget the Santa suits. We have to wear real clothes to offices and parties and family dinners.

So, how do you minimize the damage of those few extra pounds that are bound to appear at this time of year? Here are a few tips that I’ve personally found to slim down a holiday wardrobe and maximize celebrating a few guilty pleasures at the same time:

— Rule No. 1: Monochromatic dressing. OK, this is a no-brainer: Wear one color from head to toe. Whether it’s classic black or a rich ruby red is always going to make you look slimmer. It’s an instant way to dress elegantly in your favorite jersey dress or a menswear-tailored pantsuit. This season, I’d go for wearing one strong color or blend one color in different shades — lighter and darker. I find this works particularly well with various values of charcoal and silver. And remember to keep the lighter shades on top.

— Rule No. 2: Yes, dark colors do make you look slimmer and can be sophisticated and glamorous. But at holiday time, I don’t know about you, but I want to have a little bit more fun. For more drama, I like to perk up my basic blacks with some interesting “sparklers” — bold jeweled necklaces, big cocktail rings, dangling chandelier earrings (my mom’s rhinestone “earrings” from the ’50s are some of my favorites), and some sequined tanks and fringed sheer scarves.

— Rule No. 3: Stick to vertical lines. We’re not just talking about horizontal stripes here — we all know those can make us look as big as a boat dock — but think about proportions. Long and lean is key. Look at yourself in the mirror when you get dressed. This has stopped me cold a few times. What about that breezy, printed chiffon poncho top over wide-legged pants? Hmmm … not so good.

See how your eyes skim your overall silhouette. If it stops mid-thigh — that is the widest part of your body — then you need to rethink things. That’s exactly where everyone else’s eyes will stop when you waltz in the door with your poinsettia martini. I love the long knit or fur vests that skim right over the top of the hips … a great jacket or tunic top can do the same thing.

— Rule No. 4: Opposites attract. This has always been a good rule of thumb for me — just think balance. We’re talking fuller tunics and tops over skinny pants or slimmer jackets and tops over fuller skirts and pants. Keep cuts simple and fabrics rich.

— Rule No. 5: I’m a big fan of what I call the “one unique art piece,” and this often happens to be a shawl or scarf or jacket for me. I don’t really call them “cover-ups,” but I do tend to collect interesting, one-of-a-kind fashion items that I wear for years and years. I scour antique shops, vintage stores and have even been known to cozy up in a mohair throw from one of my favorite “home decor” stores.

There is definitely a trick to layering: Keep fabrics lightweight and keep the first layer tight (I love camisoles). The other outer layers should skim the body, not hug it. So think outside the box when it comes to “layering” it on for the holidays. You’ll be surprised at how creative you can get, and you won’t look like anyone else at the party!

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

With holiday parties fast approaching, panic can set in when we think about what to wear. The dress code for the social scene is no longer “one dress fits all,” but that perfect party ensemble is easy to put together if you follow a few guidelines, according to the editors at Harper’s Bazaar magazine. They have put together a new book, “Harper’s Bazaar Fashion: Your Guide to Personal Style,” by Lisa Armstrong (Hearst Books, November 2010, $24.95).

“However rarely you’re required to dress up, it pays to be prepared,” says Armstrong. “A specific event provides an excellent bona fide excuse to buy something new, but there’s nothing like an imminent deadline to muddle the brain and miraculously empty the stores of anything remotely suitable.”

Instead, Armstrong suggests shopping early and sticking to a “tightly edited festive repertoire” that prevents impulse purchases. “Trends tend to come and go,” she says, “but for parties, they tend to sit tight.” Here are some of Armstrong’s tips on navigating the special-occasion dress wardrobe:

— Classics are classics for a reason. A choice among the little black dress, little navy-blue dress or little gray dress is your passport to most formal events. For day, just take the color down a few shades.

— Even if you choose a little black dress, don’t select a silhouette that is humdrum. Instead, look for a dress with subtle details, such as lace trim, panels, embroidery or pleating.

— Wearing intense color in a flattering shade can last for years, even though it might not go under the radar as easily as a neutral frock that easily bears frequent wearings.

— Shine casts a flattering glow on the face, but it also draws the eye to lumps and bumps. It’s better to use pearls, diamonds, diamante or a jeweled neck plate to light up your skin.

— While brocades and patterns have instant appeal, they can become all too familiar after a few outings.

— When the hostess stipulates floor-length dresses, it takes a brave soul to rebel, according to Armstrong. She suggests checking out labels in the market just below designer level or investigating some of the new dress-rental services. Going the vintage route is another tempting solution.

— Otherwise, find a short dress that is “so deliciously dramatic” that no one focuses on its length. Or hunt down a simply styled long dress in a laid-back fabric like cotton jersey or washed silk. “Having a long dress that you love in your closet will stop you from rushing out and splurging on an awful one through blind panic.”

— Showing off gleaming skin is important. “To a degree, the rule seems to be the skimpier the dress, the more festive,” says Armstrong, but even though necklines have continued to plunge since the 16th century, that’s no excuse for vulgarity. “Bare arms, legs and backs within reason, always look classier than cleavage as deep as the Grand Canyon.”

— Strapless gowns can be a supremely elegant statement, but not if they don’t fit and look as if they’re going to slip off. Visit a tailor beforehand to avoid that regrettable fate.

— A beautiful gown or dress doesn’t need much help, but you make a winning finish with a dazzling pair of shoes and one beautiful piece of jewelry.

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

As vampires keep on sucking the blood out of our movies and the economy, the dark side of our culture continues to influence the return of the romantic fashion of “the Goth” — that proverbial punkish rocker who may also throw in a little Victorian glamour every once in a while.

Young people all over the world are choosing to drape themselves in the black, voluminous style, according to trend expert, Nina Stotler, who tracks the dark developments for the fashion forecasting website, “Stylesight” (www.stylesight.com).

“Amid today’s fickle, fast-fashion trends and cyclical decade revivals, one constant is an undercurrent of darkness and the gravitation of a certain set of people toward the macabre,” says Stotler, who admits that not since the ’80s have we seen such a resurgence of “Goth” clothes worn by “a subculture” of young people fond of those good ‘ole dark days.

“Now in the uncertain times of 2010,” says Stotler, “the culture that spawned the previous movements of black, via a group of artists, musicians and fashion designers, with their minimal take on darkness, is serving a modern update to the macabre.”

She cites popularity of the directional, draped style of designer Rick Owens. “His look is almost a uniform among young Scandinavians,” she says.

Other designers who are currently in the dark include Ann Demeulemeester and Givenchy’s Ricardo Tischi. Even mainstream designers like Ralph Lauren did a tribute to the dark side on the fall runways with his collection of Gothic evening dresses. The style is draped and textural, often contrasting leather with sheer fabrics, mixing stark graphics or tough design details like zippers.

But even if you don’t dwell on the dark side of fashion too often, and you’re not into interviewing vampires or having a chemical romance, you can still put some edgy style into your wardrobe. Channel your inner gypsy and conjure up Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac.

According to Stotler, here are a few bewitching ways that the latest generation of Goths are adding some attitude and a little more glamour to the new street style:

— Layer black head-to-toe. Long skirts, hoods, leather leggings and dark makeup are worn with a casual attitude, says Stotler.

— Think draping. “Today’s darker fashions have a slim silhouette, using sleek trousers and skirts to balance long, draped knits or asymmetrical outerwear,” Stotler notes. “Pieced construction, contrast paneling and spiderweb shredding are all part of the draping effect.”

— Go for graphics. This gives the dark look a lighter touch, says Stotler. “Designs are clean and basic focusing on symbols and shapes, or florid and mirrored with hidden sinister skulls or skeletons.”

— Accessorize. Bold accessories are key to the dark mood in clothing. Stotler says to look for updated antique jewelry, substantial leather pieces in wallets, belts, caps and gloves, as well as thick rubber, fringe, fur detailing and tooled, crafted textures.

— Focus on footwear. Think chunky covered wedges or stacked heels. Textures like crocodile or long fur are also staples of the new Goth footwear. Straps, zippers and chunky buckles are more popular, but lace-up, peep-toe boots or heels offer more of a feminine touch.

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 like a great pair of shoes or a fabulous handbag. The perfect coat or jacket can instantly transform your wardrobe … even if you don’t have it all together underneath. It’s what’s on the outside that counts when it comes to choosing your outerwear. First impressions do make a difference.

But style is not the only criteria for finding that perfect coat. How a coat fits you, however, may be the best way to determine what coat to buy, according to Paula Reed, British fashion expert and author of “Style Clinic” (Harper Collins, $27.95). Before you start your coat caper searching for the perfect camel coat (this year’s must-have topper), take a few tips from Reed on finding the coat that fits your body:

— The most versatile coat for almost all figures is a narrow, figure-skimming, three-quarter length coat that hits right on or below the knee. “It is both modern and flattering,” she says. “Curvier figures look good in its figure-skimming sleekness. If you are big-bosomed, go for an open collar that is cut on the wide side. It will never look dated.”

— A soft, belted style is the next most versatile shape for most figures, according to the style expert. “It works as easily with jeans and trousers as dresses. Just make sure the fabric is supple enough to drape, not clump.”

— And if you’re tall, stick to a longer coat. “Anyone under 5 feet 7 inches should avoid floor-skimming styles or anything below mid-calf,” she says.

— Belts are a great figure enhancer unless you have substantial hips, says Reed. “A belted coat will give almost anyone an hourglass figure,” she adds. “But those who are short-waisted or wide in the middle look better in slim, tailored coats without a belt.”

— If you are curvy, accentuating the narrowest part of your body — your waist — will give you instant glamour, admits Reed. “Belted coats, whether they hit below the knee or mid-thigh, look good,” she says. “But a three-quarter length coat that skims the body will look even better. Short, boxy styles will make your curves look bulky. So will voluminous A-lines that drop from the shoulders.” Instead, Reed suggests choosing tailored, curve-friendly options.

— Be wary of thick, bulky fabrics. Steer clear of the puffy parkas if your body is not on the slim side. “If you don’t want to add extra poundage,” she says, “opt for unpadded versions.”

— If you’re petite, belted shapes that sit on or just above the knee will look great, says Reed. “Short coats will increase leg length.”

— Proportion is the most important facet of finding the perfect coat that flatters your body, adds Reed. “You must take time to assess how the bulk of a coat affects your figure,” she says. “It can do good things such as smoothing over problem areas or bad things such as adding width where you don’t need it. So try to be as objective as possible.”

SIDEBAR

Top 10 Coat Trends

“There’s no easier way to update your basic look than to slip on a coat with a little attitude,” says Reed.

Here are the top 10 ways to put some attitude in your outerwear wardrobe this fall and winter:

— The camel coat is one of fall’s top trends. Designers from New York to Paris paraded the classic color down their runways. The camel coat has long been a classic, and in the neutral color, it will work with everything in your wardrobe.

— The double-breasted coat is making a comeback. In the menswear silhouette, this staple is sleek and chic and promises to last you for years to come. Gray is a close-second favorite to camel.

— The military jackets and coats are commanding attention, too. Look for details that make these toppers stand out: embroideries, patch pockets, bold buttons and interesting stitching.

— The princess coat. Also known as a “skater” coat, these feminine-style coats dress up everything from jeans to dresses. Bows, satin seams and velvet trims add even more appeal.

— The anorak is one of your best bets for a casual coat with utility chic. Add more style with fur collars and cuffs. For colder climates, the quilted puffer coats are stylish options, too.

— The cape is another versatile fall favorite. In long or short versions, the cape is a great alternative to a traditional jacket or coat. It is also a perfect choice when a lightweight topper is more appropriate for the weather.

— Furry coats and jackets, even vests are more popular than ever this fall and winter. Whether you favor the real thing or prefer to fake it, there are plenty of ways to get cozy with fur this season. The newest look? Shaggy!

— Classic shearling is another option for the fur trend. Look for the suede-like textured coats in edgy shapes with leather trim on the sleeves and collars.

— The printed coat. If you’re looking for something a little different, there are plenty of printed coats and jackets to put some fun into your outerwear wardrobe this fall. Choose from leopard accents, glen plaids, velvet brocades and urban camouflage.

— The trench. You can’t miss this classic. It’s an essential wardrobe item, and it can work for day or night, tossed over jeans or a cocktail dress. A black satin trench is a favorite coat in my closet. It dresses up my denim days and is a great look over sequin dresses for special occasions.

For any coat caper this fall, search out the most versatile toppers you can find. You’ll wear them for seasons to come.

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

Want to know some of the inside scoop from fashion insiders who may know that the “Devil Wears Prada,” but oh … so much more? How about what it’s like to live with fashion editors and designers with egos as enormous as the next BIG thing?

Well, now the inimitable Tim Gunn has filled an entire book with dishy stories of drama queens and divas from Vogue’s Andre Leon Talley being hand-fed grapes to Anna Wintour being carried down the stairs to Isaac Mizrahi’s outburst about an elevator attendant wearing brown. But the “Project Runway” mentor has much more to talk about in his latest book, “Gunn’s Golden Rules” (Simon and Schuster, $23.99, 2010).

“The advice I give most often is to ‘make it work,'” he says. “It’s a philosophy I’ve followed my whole life, and I credit it with all the wonderful and surprising success I’ve had as a TV personality, teacher and writer. What ‘make it work’ means is that you should use whatever tools you have at your disposal to create something that you’re proud of and that gets the job done.”

While Gunn is never one to mince words — whether he is working with prima donna designers on “Project Runway” or his former students at Parsons School of Design who “couldn’t function without their parents’ help” — the fashion guru has written a book on “what constitutes a life well lived” by focusing on 12 “rules” of good manners.

“These rules are what I’ve always tried to impart to my students,” he says, “and have tried to follow in my own career and social life … Good manners lead to better relationships, more career success and less personal stress.”

Here are Gunn’s top five “golden rules” for “making it work”:

— One: “Make It Work,” of course. It’s the mantra Gunn has made famous, even when he was very young and faced a very problematic childhood in Washington, D.C.

“I had to face up to whatever it was that I didn’t want to deal with — my homework, an angry parent, a fight with a friend — rather than just trying to put it off until it went away. Until you address them, I have since learned, such problems never truly vanish.”

— Two: “The World Owes You … Nothing.” A few juicy stories about the fashion elite at Vogue: “When I see what a bubble they’re all living in, how detached from reality they are, how much money and time is wasted in the course of their work, I worry about the example it sets for people coming up in the fashion world, a world that — let’s face it — is now a lot more crowded and a lot less moneyed that it has been in years past.”

— Three: “Take the High Road.” One piece of advice Gunn recently gave a group of high school students is: “Listen and listen intently when you’re being spoken to about something. Take the high road. When presented with frustration or anger or discontentment with a situation or a person, don’t reduce yourself to that level. Don’t get into a conflict in that moment. You’ll feel better about yourself for it.”

— Four: “Don’t Abuse Your Power — or Surrender It.” Even in the fashion industry, there are certain rules, says Gunn. “As anyone who sticks around in an industry for a while knows, the people who have the best careers and the best lives (and often who do the best work) are not the demanding, screaming, flinging divas. They’re the people who take their ego out of it and put all that energy into their creative life.”

— Five: “Get inspired if it kills you.” It will only make you a better person, according to Gunn. “I don’t enjoy people who think they have it all figured out, because I certainly don’t. I like the idea of always learning. Always. If you’re not learning, what makes you want to get up in the morning? Why wake up if you have it all figured out? People who coast are not having any fun. It’s almost dangerous. People around you are still working and pushing themselves. If you don’t keep up, it doesn’t matter how advanced you were when the race started — you’re not going to win it.”

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

Ever since Lana Turner wore the tight blue pullover in the 1937 movie “They Won’t Forget,” sweater girls have created a fashion sensation. Every season, designers reinvent this sexy basic that actually got its beginnings in the late 1800s in lowly horse stables when trainers used “sweater” blankets to make horses perspire — just a little fashion trivia for you! And who can forget the “twinset” cardigans introduced by none other than that famous French designer in the 1930s, Coco Chanel.

But today, sweaters have ridden into the modern wardrobe — reinvented in classic styles that can easily become your year-round “go-to” fashion favorites. Buy the best quality sweaters that you can find, and they will last you forever.

The key silhouette in sweaters this year, according to Michele Casper, fashion expert at Lands’ End, is the cardigan in a variety of necklines, lengths and weights. Some of the most popular styles include the V-neck cable “Professor” cardigan in a mid-hip length (with all-over cables) and the shawl drape cardigan in a longer length. The classic cashmere crew cardigan is always a favorite, says Casper.

“Newness this season is all about longer lengths and texture,” says Casper. “For an every year staple, the fine gauge crew cardigan remains popular as a key basic to have in your closet.”

Color plays a major role in sweater dressing this fall. “Neutrals are important this season with a pop of color,” says Casper. “Think brown and mink heather with pink, orange, green or cobalt blue.”

Here are a few tips for wearing the coolest sweater styles this fall:

— Choose a sweater that is figure flattering. Don’t even think about wearing those old, baggy oversized knits. The chunky knit sweater is a big trend this fall, but don’t try to hide in bulky silhouettes.

— Instead, pick lightweight sweaters that you can easily layer with other knits or woven pieces in your wardrobe. Lightweight cotton and cashmere blends are weights you can wear all year.

— The look is short over long. Proportions are key when layering sweaters: Pair a shorter cardigan over a longer, untucked blouse or tank top and slim trousers. Or team a longer tunic top with a shorter cardigan sweater and jeans.

— Go long and lean. The longer lengths provide versatile layering options. Whether it’s a long hand-knit vest, a ruffle-front sweater coat or a drape-front knit cardigan, longer is better. And who doesn’t like those hip-skimming options?

— Dress it up. The long cowl-neck tunics that can be worn as dresses over tights or longer, ankle-grazing sweater dresses are sweeping the runways. Just make sure you are tall enough to carry this look off, so you don’t look like you’re sweating it out by wearing a blanket yourself.

— Add a belt to give your longer sweater more definition at the waist. This is a great way to wear your longer sweaters to work. Make sure you combine the longer sweaters with slimmer pants to get the long over lean look.

— Experiment with patterns. Argyles remain a classic. Or festive Fair Isle sweaters will be big for the upcoming holiday season.

— Get glamorous. Yes, sweaters are our cozy fashion favorites, but think Lana Turner and put a little retro style into your wardrobe with form fitting, bracelet-sleeve styles paired with a full skirt … and pearls, of course.

— When wearing embellished sweaters, stick to subtle details. Don’t overdo the bling. Less is more when it comes to decorated sweaters — unless you want to go all out for Christmas Eve and Rudolph’s red nose is lighting up the way.

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

This fall, you can lighten up girls! Get over the black hump and jump on board the camel craze. After being grounded in a desert of preppy boredom, the buttery tan color has returned to become the most sophisticated neutral to hit the fall runways. And the good news? Camel goes with everything! From denim to black to gray, a touch of camel will instantly take you out of the dry fashion zone and into a refreshing new oasis.

Here’s how to make the camel connection:

— Find the perfect camel coat. You know you’re tired of that black coat you’ve worn for the past five years. You’re thinking of replacing it with yet another black “go-with-everything” coat, but why not invest in a camel-colored topper? The camel coat has long been associated with elegant glamour — a la Lauren Bacall, Lauren Hutton and the other Lauren, Ralph. So, you know you can’t go wrong.

Here are lots of versions of the camel coat this fall: long maxi wraps at Aquascutum, shiny leather coats at Prada, leather-trimmed lapels at Hermes and capes at Ferragamo. If a wool coat is too heavy, a camel-colored trench is another classic that never seems to go out of style; it fits perfectly into the military trend commanding attention this season.

— Find a great camel blazer. You can find cropped versions or longer versions. This may be one of the most versatile pieces you can put on your fall fashion shopping list. Layer it over a black pencil skirt and bow blouse for the office or over a black turtleneck and jeans for the weekend. Or be adventurous and toss it over a cocktail dress for a special evening out.

— Find an edgy camel suit. Sometimes it pays to buy two pieces that “match.” (Not to worry: “matching” is not a bad word anymore!) Then you have an actual “suit” to wear to work, and you can easily “take apart” the pieces and mix and match them with other things in your wardrobe. Whether it’s a pantsuit or a skirt suit, the camel suit, especially with the belted jacket, is a fresh new way to put a modern spin on your professional work clothes.

— Find a great pair of camel pants. Choose from two different styles: the flowing wide-leg trousers (think Katharine Hepburn) or the cropped, straight-leg styles (think Audrey Hepburn). These classic silhouettes are versatile enough to team with short jackets or longer coats.

— Shorts anyone? If you really want to stretch the fashion boundaries, then there are plenty of ways to “shorten” the road to standing out in camel. There are suede shorts galore from pricey ones at Ferragamo to less expensive ones at Kenneth Cole. Take your pick and pair with tights and knee-high boots.

— Find a fabulous camel sweater. Another one of the season’s trends — the chunky knit sweater — gets even more appeal when it’s done in the latest neutral. Stella McCartney made big news in Paris when she paraded her sexy, oversized, honey-colored button-front cardigans down the fall runways on models wearing nothing underneath them. Worn like tunic dresses, New York designer Michael Kors draped huge cowl-neck camel sweaters on models for his fall runway show.

— Find a gorgeous camel dress. Little black dress, move over. Shift dresses in solid camel are the way to go. Wear them with bare legs and camel-colored heels or boots. Top them off with animal-print coats or matching camel capes.

— Complete the camel connection with accessories. From nude pull-on ankle boots to chic slip-on caramel alligator loafers to luggage-colored clutches and hobo satchels, designers are making the camel connection with the finishing touches, too. Complete with gold jewelry accents: large cuffs, pendant necklaces and drop earrings.

— Add more color. Since camel acts as a stylish neutral backdrop, you can wear it head-to-toe this fall or add a punch of another neutral: gray is a favorite, denim always works, but red and animal prints are other ways to give this perennial classic even more 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