by Sophia Ryzhikov

Created on: February 18, 2009

In today's world of fashion, anything goes. Still, clothes and accessories go in and out of fashion. The idea is to dress casually, but to look dressed at the same time. Some things never go out of style, for example, the classic look of paired black pants or a skirt is great with a white blouse, long black necklace and a black handbag. Right now, bulky accessories are especially in style. Beaded and hoop earrings, rings with over-sized colorful semiprecious stones, such as amethysts and garnets, and headbands are popular now. In addition, stylish bags include a classic leather bag, totes, and cocktail-party clutches.

When it is cold weather outside, some women prefer to wear fur coats, while others tend to wear cropped jackets or baggy blazers. Demure colors of yesterday have paved the way to more colorful prints, such as dark flowers on a light material, blue, aquamarine, and burgundy, as well as yellow and pink colors. Some garments pair two hot colors, such as orange and brown, or purple and pink prints. The dresses, pants and skirts are designed to dress your shape, and to mix various patterns and textures to give a fashion designer look.

If you are dressing for work or school, a variety of suits are in fashion now. Both skirt and pant suits will serve the purpose. Grey suits with wide-legged pants, as well as black suits with a black and white polka-dot blouse are hot. You can also wear a suit jacket with a pencil skirt of the same color, or wear a dark jacket, a camel or a neutral skirt, and a while button-front shirt.

Shoes are important for any outfit, usually matching some piece of clothing in color. It is perfectly fine, though, to wear a black outfit with red shoes, or a color-coordinated suit, and black shoes. Some of the popular shoe styles include, but not limited to, black pumps with 2-3 inch heels, tall black boots, evening shoes in black or blue satin, and chunky sandals.

An evening gown for a special occasion should be tasteful and exquisite. Strapless dress, accessorized with a pearl belt or a jeweled necklace, creates a more casual look, while gowns with wide long skirts and paired with diamond jewelry, makes one feel like a queen.

Try to have at least several pieces in your closet that stand out, and have several pieces you can wear everyday. It is important to put some thought into your outfit. If you particularly like one material or pattern, you might have several items like that, but try not to wear the same style of clothes everyday. Variety is the key to looking great all the time.

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