This week, we’re crazy for peacoats! Some tips for finding your perfect match: keep fit, style, color, and fabric in mind. Ask yourself what you want from your coat, and how it will fit into your wardrobe. Longer coats act as a dramatic fashion statement while keeping out the winter draft, but cropped peacoats work beautifully in the warmer autumn temperatures. Do you want a dark or neutral coat that will mesh with any outfit, or a bright statement piece (think vibrant red!) to pop against winter’s drab palette? Wool coats are your heaviest, warmest option, while cotton, cashmere, or polyester offer lighter options. There are also endless stylish embellishments to contour to any fashionista’s body type - belted waists accentuate hour glass figures, while straight, fitted options compliment narrower frames. Once you’ve found your cold-weather staple, make sure you take proper care to keep it in tip top shape for as long as possible. Plan to dry clean your coat twice a year - once at the beginning of the season and once at the end. Store your peacoat in a safe place, too. Cedar hangers keep moths away, while garment bags protect from lint. Did you know that you can cut costs and keep the love strong by cleaning your coat at home (always consult the care tag inside your coat)? By combining a home dry cleaning system with spot cleaning stains as soon after they appear as possible (blot gently with a clean rag, mild detergent and cold water!), and semi-regular visits with a lint roller and dryer sheet (they help lint-proof your coat!), your perfect peacoat will stay with you for years to come.
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In need of a fashion makeover? This doesn't always mean buying new clothes. Why not try reworking some of your tried and true favorites as a fun DIY project, or bring old items to your local tailor for a spruced up transformation? Hem an old tee or tank into an easy-breezy crop top for the steamy summer months, revamp old, baggy T-shirts into snazzy blouses, cut old pants into shorts, make long blazers into cropped jackets for a summertime soiree, or convert floor-length skirts or dresses into adorable minis. The possibilities are endless, so let's get creative, fashionistas! We've all seen them — those big, floppy sun hats and snazzy straw fedoras that hit the stores this time of year. Do you love them from afar, but never quite have the guts to try them out? Now's your chance to make a statement, fashionistas! Summer is the perfect time to mix up your style and try something new. Adding a hat instantly changes the look and feel of skirts, dresses and blouses you've worn a hundred times before. Plus, they protect you from the sun, pair perfectly with sunglasses for movie-star glam, and look extra nice bobbing around the farmers' market or lounging through a lazy beach afternoon. From felt to straw, adorned with ribbon, bows, flowers and more — hats are here to save the day, dolling up any cute summertime ensemble!
What does your summer shoe collection look like? Sandal possibilities extend far beyond flip flops (though these are certainly a beach bum's best friend!). Try wedges for a fancy dinner out, neutral T-strap flats for a casual day of shopping, or brightly colored gladiators for an extra snazzy edge. The shape of your shoe should compliment your outfit. So be conscious of your feet — they have the power to pull your look together, or pull it apart. Once again, the cutest shoes are not always the best ones for you feet. Stay away from hard, flat soles, opting instead for flexible bottoms and arch support to walk through summer in comfy-chic style! Happy Friday, fashionistas! Does bathing suit season have you running for the hills? As we gear up for the months of poolside barbecues and trips to the beach, it's important to find the suit that bestsuits your body type. Bathing suit shapes, styles and patterns can help accentuate — or cover up — certain natural features. If you are threatened by muffin top middle; here are a few things to consider: *Invest in a two piece that features a tankini top and bottom. *Ruching helps to hide a winter belly. *High-waisted lycra bottoms can help pull it all in and smooth it out. *Of course, don’t forget that playful prints can help distract the eye from it all. Love yourself and the body you’re in! |
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AuthorFashion Know-How is written by Alyson Lincoln McHugh, owner of No. 9 Boutique in downtown Montpelier, VT. Hear Fashion Know-How every Saturday at 7:50 a.m. on WDEV. |