If you don’t have much in the hip department, however, skinny jeans can be a really flattering look for you.

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What other choices do I have?

So you’ve decided that skinny jeans are not for you, but you still want to look up-to-date.  You have a few options.

• Wear straight-leg jeans in a dark wash.  Skip the boot cut style for now.
• Wear straight-leg menswear inspired pants.
• Wear a cute skirt or dress that suits your body shape with a pair of opaque leggings.

But I’ve just got to have the skinny jeans!

• Get them in a dark color.
• Try them on before you buy them, and make sure you can deal with how they look.  Use the three-way mirror.
• Since the focus is going to be on your butt, wear a bright shirt that covers one-half to two-thirds of your backside for a more dramatic presentation.
• Wear shoes that are also dark in color.

1. Fabulous Forties

   The Second World War look is back with all it’s glamour and sophistication. The easiest way to achieve this is by adding shoulder pads to your blouses , sweaters and blazers. You can also try sophisticated pumps too as well as a cinched in waist (use a thin leather or chain belt for this.)

2. Lady of The Lake

   The 40’s screen icons , like Veronica Lake, are also being copied. How to achieve this? Try a red lipstick with barely there eye make up and blush. Remember to pick a red that suits you. Fair haired and light skinned women look good with a red with a bluish undertone while olive skinned women look better with a red with a yellow undertone. Also if the red is too intense, dab it on with a finger and finish with a slick of clear gloss.

   To add to this look, try a deep side part Forties hair style. Use a curling iron or hot rollers to get that wavy Lauren Bacall look. Go to budget sites like e.l.f., Everyday Minerals and Signature Minerals to save on retro make up. Buy the always low cost styling V05 shampoos, conditioners and styling products to achieve the glorious waves and curls

3. Eighties Revisited

   You knew an Eighties revival was inevitable. Embrace the “greed is good” era by being greedy with saving money. You can have the retro hair with just a tube of gel and some creativity.

   As far as the bright colors, look to Target, K-Mart and Wal-Mart for neon bright accessories or even a color bright tee You can also put together an all black outfit and accentuate with a bright scarf ,jewelry or belts just like women did during the Duran Duran era.

4. Ruffle Ker-tuffle

   The latest craze is ruffling. Ruffles are big right now whether on dresses, or blouses. Even shoes and bags have them too. You can buy some pretty ruffled blouses at Target for under twenty bucks. Chadwick’s also has some neat ruffled sweaters for under thirty bucks. These go great with jeans or skirts.

   Another way of jumping on this trend is by getting lace trim and sewing it onto your tees and plain oxford shirts. You can create something demure or fancy and fun for just a few bucks and a sewing machine.

5. Purple Reigns

   The royal color reigns supreme this season. Purple is everywhere from lipstick to tights, from shoes to bags. Thanks to its’ intensity just one purple item will suffice. You can think about violet and grape colored eye shadows that start at $2.50 from Everyday Minerals or a deep plum lipstick for five bucks from e.l.f. Cosmetics.

   Another purple pick up is a pair of tights. Wear with a leather skirt for a nod to the Eighties trend. A luxe look is a deep plum cashmere tee. This can carry you from date night to office meetings.

6. Golden Eye

   Another look that’s hot is a shimmery eye. Again you can go to any of the mineral cosmetic companies ( can’t stress this enough but Everyday Minerals is a big financial help here at $2.50 for a small pot of shadow) to get a lid that’s bathed in gold. Just a shimmer will update any look.

   For evening think about lining your eyes with a bronze eyeliner to continue the gilded look. A party look is using the $5.00 e.l.f. eye shadows that come in cool neutral shimmers along with the same priced mineral eye liners.

7. Mad For Plaid

   Tartan back in a big way again. If you feel that the trend is too overwhelming invest in just a scarf or hat to wear with a denim or leather jacket. A cute trend is a tartan tunic which looks neat with leggings. This can be worn with a long sleeved tee underneath or just as it is. You can also buy material and make easy tartan vests or even handbags.

8. Be a Man

   Or just look like one. Menswear is big right now. If you’re going to buy a suit buy one that‘s on sale or from an outlet store. Pair it with a plain oxford shirt and even a tie stolen from your favorite male.

   Another masculine look turned feminine is the boyfriend blazer. Use it for everything from work to a night out with the girls. Top off the look with a fedora and skinny black jeans for a punk meets teddy boy look.

9. Animal Passions

   Animal prints are making a comeback. You can easily buy animal prints to make a simple shell or tee shirt. Another way of getting the look cheap is with accessories. Liven up last year’s somber black suit with a zebra or leopard skin belt or scarf. Also think about a faux fur hat or vest to add versatility to your drab winter wardrobe.

You can still be chic and trendy even though you’re penny pinching. It just takes smart shopping and some flair to weave your way through this season’s trends. Be sharp looking by being sharp with your spending.

The designer of this bag must have had muggers in mind.  This could be a little farfetched from what I am use to.

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 This designer is certainly gone to the dogs. While these are very cute you would have to be a very big lover of dogs to carry this around and for a Mom with a couple of kids I really can’t see the practicality of this one either. Maybe it would be more suitable for the preteen years.

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 Leaping Lizards! Oh no, that’s a Frog. Well this one would certainly raise some eyebrows so if its attention you’re after I’m sure this one would do it. You would really have to love reptiles to carry a purse like this.

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It’s like taking your computer everywhere you go. This is definitely for the computer lover. If you don’t have a lap top then this could help with the withdrawals from your computer while you shop or at least you will have the key board if your fingers get itchy.

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These are for the musically inclined. You really have to have a love for Elvis to carry this around which I’m sure there are many out there that do. I can’t quite see myself indulging in something like this no matter how big a fan I am. At least with this bag there is certainly enough room for all you need to take with you.

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This Armadillo would certainly be an armful! Now this is a gem of a bag, it has no room but could prove to be an eye popper. I personally wouldn’t want to carry this one around but then you never know there are some people that would love the uniqueness of this bag.

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They can call me chicken and their right I would refuse to carry this. Does this one scream class to you? I think not but you never know what one man’s (or should I say women’s) meat is another man’s poison. Nope, this is not for me but it could come in handy for collecting eggs I suppose.

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So there you have it, if you already own one of these bags then Good Luck, if you don’t then you have to decide if you really want one. As for me, I think I will stick with my little black, conservative bag that I bought at Wall Mart for $19.95.

Wear with flair…

Geek Glasses

With geek chic fashion rampant on the runway, thick-rimmed glasses are seeing a rise in popularity.  To pull off this look, pick a color that suits your complexion, and make sure that the frames flatter your face.

Messenger Bags

Trade your purse or briefcase for an over-the-shoulder messenger bag to reach Accessory Nirvana.  If you’re a student, add patches that reflect your personality to your cloth bag.  Need something more professional?  Kate Spade markets a line of leather messengers that match any business suit.

Argyle

This classic geek pattern has returned to malls across America for spring of 2009.  Pick it up in pink and green for a preppy take on a geeky staple, or grab a sweater vest with a blue and gray pattern for a more neutral look.

The Skinny Tie

Of course, Hollywood heartthrobs like Zac Efron look great in skinny ties, but did you know that you can copy this look?  Look for ties in all colors at stores like Banana Republic, and pair yours with a fitted Oxford.  Worried about looking masculine?  Relax your look with a pleated skirt.

Gadgets

Your Mac, your iPhone, and your watch double as accessories and can complement your look.  Personalize your iPhone with a cover or faceplate, or surf the web for great deals on jewelry for your iPod.

Don’t go there…

High-Waisted Jeans

Face it:  Most women carry extra weight around their waist, hips, and stomach.  High-waisted jeans call attention to these areas and are, on most of us, quite unflattering.  For a similar look, check stores like The Limited for wide-legged trousers that sit lower on the hips.

Fanny Packs

These throwbacks to the eighties are a definite no-go.  If you own one, toss it – now.  The same goes for cell phone belt clips.  Instead, invest in some kind of purse or bag.  The Fashion Police will thank you.

Bermuda Shorts

Who wears Bermuda shorts?  Eighty-year-old men in the Everglades of Florida.  Do their legs look good?  No.  Trade your Bermudas for shorts with a hemline that hits your mid-thigh, or, if you are uncomfortable with your legs, wear capris.

Oversized T-Shirts

Oversized tees can add twenty pounds to the slimmest of women.  Even if your body isn’t Hollywood perfect, know that you are beautiful, and don’t hide under extra fabric.  Make sure that your clothes fit properly.

…and the geek fashion trend to most thoroughly avoid is…

The Wedgie

Alright, that one’s a gimme.  But now you know what not to wear.  You are the few, the proud, the true geek chic, and you will never be faced with 404:  Style Not Found.

A cornucopia of color

If you do one thing to jump start your fall and winter wardrobe, invest in a brightly colored coat. Black and neutrals are still popular but brights have taken on a life of their own. Especially popular are rich shades of red and purple with luscious berry variations such as rich raspberry, bright blueberry, and various shades of pink and maroon. A brightly colored coat can add new life to neutral and monochromatic clothing. It’s a piece that’ll make you feel good every time you put it on.

The leather biker jacket

Maybe it’s not politically correct to wear leather but no one seems to have convinced the fashion designers. Leather coats in a variety of incarnations make eye catching style statements this falls and winter and the leather biker jacket stands out from the crowd. There’s no doubt the biker look is hot. There’s something about putting on a biker style coat that makes you feel almost invincible. To make an interesting fashion statement, pair a biker jacket with floral, feminine prints for an exercise in contrast. Add some leather boots and you’ll be ready for a casual evening out. Pair the same biker jacket and boots, jeans, and a turtleneck sweater for an all day weekend look. This piece will serve you well.

Details, details, details

Look for dramatic detailing around the sleeves and collars of coats for fall 2008 and winter 2009. One of the most frequently used fabrics for detailing is fur with large, oversized fur cuffs and collars turning simple coats into dramatic fashion statements. For those who don’t wear fur for ethical reasons, the change in season should bring lots of coats with faux embellishments, allowing you to wear “fur” without guilt.

Military might

This trend started several seasons ago but it’s still going strong. There’s something about wearing a military inspired coat that adds an air of cool authority. Because of its clean and polished look, it can be worn anywhere from the office to an evening dinner out on the town. Look for well cut coats in dark rich fabrics with brass buttons, braiding, and other interesting detailing. One key trend is the blending of richly detailed masculine pieces with softer feminine fashions. A military coat is the perfect masculine cover up to pair with softer more feminine styles. Look for military coats in winter white with brass buttons which is another hot trend for 2009. Feeling adventurous? Buy a vintage, military coat and have it tailored to fit.

You’ll have lots of options when choosing a coat for fall 2008 and winter 2009. Remember when investing in coat trends choose a well made piece that screams quality. It’ll be worth the investment.

Dark denim

There was a time when faded jeans were the rage but the tide has turned and dark denim has been rediscovered. The advantages of dark denim are considerable. While light, faded jeans are soft and fun to wear, dark jeans are less casual and can be worn for dressier occasions. Who doesn’t appreciate the slimming effect dark denim has on the legs and thighs? A pair of dark jeans in your closet means you don’t have to dress up to go out. Just slip on dark jeans and a stylish belt, add a sweater and some cool boots or heels and you have a figure flattering, “go anywhere” look. This is one trend you can’t live without.

Weathered jeans

Although dark denim is a force in fashion this fall, the distressed look will also be hot, particularly on college campuses. This is one time you can really appreciate holes in your clothing. In fact, you can find online videos showing how to tastefully destroy jeans to give them that “lived in” look. Holes are hot and rips are even better. Add a few stains and blotches and you have the recipe for fall fashion success.

Wide leg jeans

The slim, skinny jean has been the prevailing style for the past season. Although the slim jean will still have its place in 2009 fall and winter wardrobes, wide leg denim will make its appearance for those who are ready for a change. If you happen to be short or carry most of your weight below the waist, a wide leg style can visually add pounds. To offset this, wear wide leg jeans with higher heels to add height and avoid styles that have cuffs which can make legs look shorter. If this look isn’t for you, never fear, you can still wear skinny jeans this fall and look fashionable.

However you choose to wear them jeans and denim are a classic that will never go out of style. Have fun wearing the new denim trends this fall!

Wear it as a jacket.

Maybe a tweed blazer is too conservative for you but what about a tweed bomber jacket? Play it up with a pair of pencil slim pants and a pair of this year’s hottest accessory, riding boots to create a fall look that’s sure to bring compliments. Wear your tweed bomber jacket open to reveal a soft sweater or silk blouse or button it up for an ultra chic, slightly biker girl look. Look for tweed jackets that have distinctive details such as piping or unusual buttons to keep the look hip and contemporary. You’ll never think of tweed clothes the same again.

What about a tweed skirt?

If you think librarian when you picture a tweed skirt, it’s time to reconsider. To avoid a matronly look, choose a tweed skirt with a modern, sexy cut. Try a short, flirty tweed such as an above the knee ballerina skirt paired with black tights and matching, low heeled pumps or a shorter tweed pencil thin skirt with heels and tights. Stay away from formless, unconstructed tweed skirts since they can make you look older. Think fresh and fun!

Pair tweed clothes with something ultra-feminine

Don’t overdo tweed by wearing it on two parts of your body simultaneously. Instead pair a tweed skirt or pair of pants with something softly feminine such as a luscious silk blouse or a beautiful cashmere sweater. The slightly masculine tones of the tweed will contrast beautifully with the feminine tones of the top. Forget the two piece tweed suit that’s been so overplayed and think in terms of creative contrasts.

Add just a touch of tweed with accessories

Tweed clothes aren’t the only way to wear this trend. Slip on a pair of high heeled sling back shoes in tweed to transform your pencil thin skirts and pants into fashion statements. Carry a tweed clutch purse or tote bag or invest in a tweed fedora for fall. Tweed accessories can add a bit of stylish detailing to a monochromatic outfit and take it from elegant to fabulous.

Tweed clothes are sure to be a hit as the weather turns cooler. Find out how versatile and stylish tweed can be on you!

If you’re short and a few pounds on the heavy side, you may think this pants trend is not for you. The good news is you can wear wide leg pants and look fabulous in them. Why? The current women’s wide leg pants are higher in the waist which adds height and gives an overall slimming effect. A pair of wide leg pants with a high waist in a dark color is flattering on almost anyone. If you lack height, choose a more discrete flair in the leg rather than big, billowy legs that only look good on supermodel types. Carrying a little too much weight in the hips? The flair at the bottom of wide leg pants can help to balance out your shape. They’re also a good way to hide less than perfect legs and calves.

Another key to looking chic in women’s wide leg pants is to wear them with a body hugging top. With a dramatic flair in the leg, you want to keep the top sleek and simple. Wide legs provide enough drama and interest. Don’t make the look too busy by wearing a billowy top, particularly if you’re on the short side.

Wide leg pants look best with a heel as they tend to visually cut leg height. Choose a slightly chunky shoe or boot with a two to three inch heel rather than flats if you want to step out in style in your wide leg pants. Shoes with pointed toes are flattering with wide leg pants, plus the long toe tends to add the appearance of height. Another word of caution if you’re under 5′4” in height. Choose a pair of wide leg pants without cuffs. Cuffs will visually subtract height and make your appear shorter than you actually are.

One way to determine what style of wide leg pants will look best on you is to visit your local department store or clothing boutiques and try on wide leg pants with various degrees of flair. After trying on several styles, you should get a rough idea of the leg width that’s most flattering on you.

Women’s wide leg pants are already being seen on such celebrities as Katherine Heigl, Kate Moss, and Victoria Beckham as well as in the pages of the current fashion magazines. Use these ideas for inspiration for new and innovative ways to wear your wide leg pants. Have fun with this new trend!

Unfortunately, gladiator style sandals aren’t universally flattering which may have accounted for their rather slow rise in popularity. These sandals form almost a cage-like structure around the foot. They then wrap around the ankle and, in some, styles, extend up the leg. The fact that these sandals extend some far up the leg can make legs look shorter, particularly if you don’t have the mile long gams of a star studded supermodel. Plus, not everyone wants to look like a Roman gladiator when they step out the door.

Fortunately, the designers have gotten smart and modified women’s gladiator sandals in such ways to make them more flattering and diverse. With so many choices available, most women can wear some form of gladiator style sandal even though they still tend to be somewhat polarizing. You either love them or you hate “em.

When selecting women’s gladiator sandals, you’ll want to consider your own anatomy. If you have shorter legs that aren’t needle thin, you’ll want to stay away from heavier, chunkier, more elaborate styles of gladiator sandals. Stick with the simpler gladiator styles with thin straps and a bit of a heel. If you decide you just have to have the chunkier gladiator style sandals, wear them with jeans. They’ll be more flattering worn this way if you don’t have the legs to carry them off with skirts and shorts.

One of the classier ways to wear gladiator sandals is to pair a light, thin strapped pair with a small heel with one of the new Grecian gowns. These flowing gowns, drape nicely over the body and can be a pretty summertime party look. A nice combination is a white or cream colored Grecian gown with a light, airy pair of gold metallic gladiator sandals. Make sure to do a pedicure before stepping into this combination. Add some simple gold jewelry and you’ll have an outfit that looks and feels wonderful on a warm summer night.

If you have the legs for them, women’s gladiator sandals can also be worn with summer shorts of all types and, if you dare, a mini-skirt.

Love or hate ‘em, these are the shoes of the season. Are they for you?

The fall trends of 2008 are easy and comfortable.

Wear one or wear them all and you will be ready to stun them in the Fall