October 5, 2010

Trends That Stand the Test of Time

Trends That Stand the Test of Time -

Defining Fashion

1. Classic jean and a white shirt

DEFINITION: A jean without distressing or color; one that is of a dark wash, straight leg and traditional tan or gold stitching. Beware that some brands call their jeans “classic,” which refers to the original style they offer. A true classically trend jean is one with a straight to boot cut leg. (To test, fold the ankle of the jean to the knee. The ankle opening should be wider than the knee.)

DEFINITION: A tailored button-front shirt in a crisp white. This shirt will show no trendy details such as a contrast stitch, embellishment or logo.

2. Denim jacket

DEFINITION: A casual short (generally hip length) jacket made of blue denim. This jacket might show signs of wear. It should be fitted through the bodice.

3. Trench coat

DEFINITION: Military inspired, the trench coat is characterized by having deep front pockets and a cloth belt. The classic trench coat is typically tan or black in color.

4. Cashmere Sweater

DEFINITION: A garment made from the fine wool, cashmere. The classically tailored sweater may be button front (cardigan style), v-neck or crew-neck. The color would be one that is a neutral, generally white, ivory, black or navy.

5. Accessories

DEFINITION: Fashion accessories are decorative items that add to an outfit such as jewelry, handbags, belts, scarves, watches, sunglasses and pins. Specifically, a strand of pearls, high end shoes brands like Christian Louboutin or Jimmy Choo, Gucci or Hermes scarves, Louis Vuitton or Chanel handbags.

WHY KEEP THESE THINGS IN YOUR CLOSET?

Simply put, they never go out of style! Regardless of the time or the trends in fashion, these pieces can be molded into the latest-greatest things from New York and Paris. Consider how many great looks you could get from the trendy menswear inspired tailored pants if you paired it with a great jean jacket. Or, what about pulling that floral dress out of summer into fall with that same jean jacket. Maybe throw that crisp white shirt over a trendy ruffles billowy skirts – very Cari Bradshaw! And what would be more chic than a beautiful cashmere sweater paired with, well – ANYTHING!

WHERE TO BUY?

I have found the best timeless trends at Thrift Shops and Consignment Stores. Seriously! These are the things I scout for when I go on a consignment / thrift treasure hunt.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

When shopping thrift, be sure to pay attention to quality and details. Look at the seaming: does the stitching look strong, or does it appear to be losing its strength. Also check for signs of alterations. Many things you find will have had some alterations, especially if it is a good brand or designer piece. Also watch for signs of wear; look at the collar, cuffs and hems. Is the fabric tattered or in good condition? Also check for stains and odors.

MY FAVORITE TREASURE HUNTS

Some of my favorite places to hunt for timeless treasures include:

• Goodwill
I can’t even begin to tell you all the great things I’ve uncovered at Goodwill over the years! www.goodwill-ni.org

• Serendipity Consignment in Granger, IN
My favorite winter handbag and shoes came from this shop. 7106 Grape Road, Granger

• Carmel Consignment, Carmel, IN
When I go to Indianapolis, I always try to schedule enough time to stop in. Gucci scarves, Louis Vuitton handbags…need I say more? It is located right on the curve on 31 as you enter Indianapolis / Carmel. 13686 North Meridian Stree, Carmel

• McShane’s Exchange, Chicago, IL
This little consignment gem is in the Lincoln Park area. Honestly, my blood pressure goes up every time I walk in that store! You just never know what you are going to find. Burberry trench with the tags still on, classic Calvin Klein jeans, and the list goes on…815 West Armitage Ave., Chicago

• Junior League of South Bend’s Thrift Shop
Being a south side South Bend native, this sale was always part of my annual shopping plan. Recently, this one-time-a-year sale moved to Toscana Park, and might I say that the sale is bigger and better than ever! It happens on Saturday, September 18 from 9 AM to 3 PM. Fur coats, high-end designer digs, perfect party dresses, great kids’ clothes and stuff for your home--anything you may be in the market for, you will probably find at Thrift Shop! www.jlsouthbend.org

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