DESIRE, ACQUIRE & INSPIRE - FROM ARCHIVES: 11 08 06
CURRENT

We all have those certain perennially fashionable items that no matter what become the latest fashions exist as the staples of our wardrobe. They are usually chic, simple and have that extra design touch that makes them amazing without being contrived or complicated. In other words, they are the clothes that become the glue of a well-honed, fashionable wardrobe.

In my overstuffed closet there is a collection of “ perfect pieces” that I have carefully selected over the years. I like to rummage through professional women's clothing and mix match pieces with oversized belts and add the personal touch of just the right amount of bling. My sisters and I like to call it “Pumping up the Funk”.

A stylish woman desires to be unique. She takes some risk in her style and she does not settle for cookie cutter fashion by buying suits or matching skirt and jacket combo's. That is so yesterday. She works on making her wardrobe one of a kind. She carefully acquires timeless pieces over the years.

CLASSIC STYLE DOES NOT HAVE TO BE BORING

If classic is your thing, keep it fresh. Make sure you pick pieces that you like rather than following social trends. “Today it is appropriate to wear jeans with vintage pieces and a nice evening bag” says Gucci designer Frida Giannini in Glamour's Big Book of Dos and Don'ts (Melcher Media/Gotham Books). Classic doesn't have to imply dull, it's all in the pieces you go for and how well you can coordinate them. Accessorizing with the perfect jacket, sweater and necklace combo can make classic dashing.

PROFESSIONAL & FASHIONABLE – IT WORKS

The term professional carries a conservative weight to it. By all means, be professional when the occasion calls for it and look stylishly casual for the weekend. Never, and I do say never, be afraid to experiment with fashion. I would say it is better to take the risk and err on the side of gaudy than to be fashionably dull!

As a business person, you want to appear office appropriate for the type of business that you are in. No matter what your profession, you have to avoid wearing tight clothing with lots of over the top gimmicks. Avoid exposing ANY flesh. Keep your look pulled together and you will be perceived the same way. If your clothing style is all over the place, you'll be perceived as scattered and messy.

RULES ARE FOR FOOLS

Keep in mind this fall that it's not about “matching” colors, but about complimenting textures and fabric weights. You should be able to develop the knack to follow certain guideline to create your own individual and polished look, it's all about choice.

Anyone can be a fashion inspiration. Having great personal style is more about understanding yourself and being comfortable with how you come across. Any style can be modified to look great on you; it only takes a pragmatic look in the mirror and the sense to know how far you can take it.

Article by: Belinda Ramirez