Don't let the warm temperatures fool you: the season's next fashion finds are arriving online and in stores daily now. It's not too early to think about taking a break from the heat and cleaning out your closet to make way for some cool new looks that you can wear now and later. Check out these trends:
—'80s Club Chic. Yes, we are back to the '80s, moving right along from those '70s-inspired rock 'n' roll looks that were so in style last year. Think Madonna and her groupies, flashing back to fishnets, fingerless gloves and anything ripped, torn and held together with safety pins. The spiky-haired punks are back, but all grown up this time around, with oversized menswear blazers, asymmetrical hemmed skirts, animal-print coats and, of course, tulle skirts. Lingerie comes out from undercover. Refresh your memory and watch Madonna in "Desperately Seeking Susan." But you don't have to be all that desperate to try out this trend. A hint of lace and leather will do. A little goes a long way.
—In the Abstract. It's all about painterly prints this fall. And these prints are meant to be seen — from far away! Huge, oversized geometrics (the bigger, the better) in bright colors are splashed on clothing canvases from dresses to tops to bottoms. The hit of the season? Head-to-toe checkerboard prints. And the more these graphic prints and colors clash, the better, too. If you're not quite as bold as those '80s club kids were, then stick with one piece of wearable art at a time!
—Modern Vintage. The bohemians from last year are marching back in time with a slightly more dandified approach. We're talking velvet in lush jewel-tone colors that have a fairy-tale effect, creating a romantic fashion twist that borders on the Baroque and glistens in gold metallic prints. Go with the flow in '60s-ish floral dresses, long skirts and high-necked blouses. Add some tassels and fringe. Pull on your gloves and pin on the brooches. Get ready to strut your stuff in those velvet Victorian lace-up booties, girls!
—Sporty Leisure. The popular trend that combines athletic wear with casual wear will continue to have a big influence on our wardrobes, because, let's face it, we all love comfortable clothes. The baggy sweats of yesteryear have morphed into lean leggings, long tunics, zip-front jackets and jumpsuits. We are knit-wits about these kinds of sporty outfits that can be worn to the gym and beyond. Look for pajama-inspired clothes to become even more popular this fall. After all, it will be time to get cozy and hibernate soon!
—Coat Craze. If there's one thing to put at the top of your fall/winter shopping list, it's a coat. And not just any ol' coat. Look for a statement piece. After all, you wear your coat over everything else, day in and day out. Why not make it special? Whether it's a knockout color, an over-the-top shape or a fabulous faux fur, this is the year to find that one-of-a-kind outerwear that stands out in a crowd.
—Block Party. Accessories are always key signals that a new fashion season has arrived. This fall, the newest shoes are stepping out with square heels that give footwear a mod '60s touch. And if you really want to get a foot up on the latest trends, buy a pair of block heels or ankle boots in white. The stark contrast of white shoes in the winter will put you at the head of the fashion pack this year. Step out and be bold!
To find out more about Sharon Mosley, and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.
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