This fall and
winter, have fun flirting with
the menswear trend. Try a few traditional pieces but still be all woman. Following is a guide to help you update your look.
The new colors of grey, red, gold, purple and a spot of leopard are fall's perfect accents. Add some knits to your wardrobe in one of these hot fashion colors.
*Dress - Pinstripes (or any menswear fabric) add sophistication and class.
*Blouse - Rein in a billowy blouse with a vest. A vest can add finish without the use of a jacket. Satiny shirts with a hot hue keep your look from being too dressy and ruffles add ladylike glamour.
*Pants - Flat front and straight legs minimize full hips. Full leg pants are ultra-feminine. Pairing them with a lightweight top keeps the look from veering too far into menswear territory. Ditch the dress and try some tuxedo pants; the clean, lean lines lengthen and slim. Corduroy is an answer to blue jeans--with plenty of colorful options. For the leanest line, look for pants that sit an inch or two below the navel, fit slightly snug around the hips and derriere, then hang loose.
*Jacket - Pay attention to the cut; a short fitted single-button blazer is classy and professional. Three buttons say pulled-together, not a power suit. A boxy jacket like a man's overcoat is perfect, but add a ribbon or bow for a girly look.
*Sweater - Cashmere, angora, tweed and cable knit all add texture to an ensemble. Chunky sweaters are in, but trendy turtlenecks are more adaptable to layering. Everyday can be sweater weather this season, particularly when you creatively layer your knits that mark your own personal style.
*Leather gloves add a touch of sophisticated masculinity, but cashmere is soft and cozy.
*Shoes - Chunky, rounded toe styles mimic the sturdiness of a man's dress shoe, but offer feminity and comfort. The closed toe is loaferish. Boots add sex appeal. Glam a look up with all-out sexy, black patent heels or flats. Platforms are strong enough for a pair of voluminous pants. Also, remember sleek animal-skin pumps give a femme-fatale air to any trousers.
*Bag - Strong shape; neutral hue: timeless. A clutch style is not too overdone. Leather: Heavy hardware adds richness and a jolt of color energizes a look. Cable knit: Sort of like a guy's sweater, but very soft. Velvet: the fabric is luxe but low-key.
*Jewelry - Add quirky necklaces and bracelets to keep the menswear look from seeming to businesslike. Add a vintage pin in an unexpected way to sweeten up a serious look. Keep earrings minimalist, not overdone. A gentlemanly watch (wrist or pocket) is a menswear buy that will always stay in style.
*Hats - A Fedora or Newsboy hat spice up an ensemble with a sexy, masculine look.
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