Lifestyle Choices

Gloves

Don’t neglect the power gloves can have as a fashion accent! Most of your gloves will be worn in cold weather, so you’ll need to find a pair (or two or three, to change off) that are warm as well as pretty. You can choose from a variety of knitted styles. Find a color that picks up a tone in your coat, e.g., cocoa brown with an olive/ toast/ beige tweed; or a startling contrast, like electric blue with a black coat that will get your blood going on a nippy day. Good knit choices: wool, cashmere, angora, blends, or synthetics. Keep in mind that longer gloves will prevent the wind from whistling in at your wrists; save shorter styles for milder days. (more…)

Never underestimate the statement-making impact of the right shoes; the right pair can really carry your look! Never before have there been so many shapes, styles, materials, and colors from which to choose. Study the list below; how many of these do you own?

• Ballerina flats. Round-toed, flat pumps that are graceful and flattering for all but the very shortest of girls. Have several pair in a variety of colors to meet almost any fashion need, from prom dress to toreador pants.
• D’Orsay pump. A strapless, slip-on shoe with a wedge-shaped heel that widens at top, then tapers to a point.
• Espadrille. A flat shoe with a canvas upper and a flexible, rope or hemp sole. A great summer choice. Try a pair that lace up your ankles teamed with a long, flowing skirt.

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Shop with your head, not just your heart, and you’ll be sure to get the most from your foot-wise purchase. Touch the shoes you’re going to buy; rub your hand over suede shoes; the color should be consistent but look different each way. If it doesn’t, the nap is too short and it will wear poorly … If the shoes are unlined, take careful note: does the color come off on your fingers? If the answer is yes, you can bet that it will come off on your feet too … Velvet shoes should be thick and soft looking, feel plushy to the touch … With silk or other fabrics, check the edge where cloth meets sole; (more…)