by Gloria Edmonson Nelson

Created on: November 03, 2009

Fashion varied during 2009; in fact; you could wear almost anything. But it was the introduction of the 50's trend again. For example; for women it was the wide belts, flared skirts for dancing, the long fitted skirts as well as the mini which continued to be a hot item.

Shoes were as "high" or tall as you could get them. Five to six inches looked great if you could walk in them, and some females did. Colors were loud: yellows, greens, melons, but black, white, and red were popular as well. Polka dots in everything was a must. Polka dots in purses, blouses, dresses, jackets, as well as designer eye wear.

Regarding hair-dos; "everything goes" was the answer. If you wanted to be blond; you bleached; if you wanted black hair; you dyed it as dark as you could. Red hair was a rave as well. Pony tails were worn by children, teens, as well as the mature woman. If you did not have long hair; you purchased it and pinned it on. It looked great. Braids were also purchased and were worn in many styles. Wigs, of course, continued to be popular from past years. Short or spiked hair looked awesome with any outfit; casual or dressy.

Fitted dresses that showed one's figure, made from all types of material, were very appealing during 2009 and continue to be worn by all females.

Large purses or carry-alls were seen on many women's arms; however, at socials or cocktail parties, etc., they were extra small, carried in the hand or with a shoulder strap.

Earrings were large, in fact, ear bobs with clip-ons returned. Yet, women continued to wear the pierced diamonds. Bracelets and bangles were worn three or four together as well as watches with bands that matched the outfit.

Two-piece suits with fitted (to the waist jackets) with skirts below the knee, or longer, took women to work, to dinner, to a concert, as well as to church.

For males; the three-button to five-button, double-breasted or single with wide lapels was the suit of 2009. Those males who could wear the pleated pants with the long jacket were truly "GQ."

Some males wore collarless shirts in all colors; not just white. Some shoes, even the loafers; had some heels. The well-dressed male wore a nice designer watch with a wide band, and some wore diamond or gold bracelets. Those males who were overly-confident even carried a small bag that looked like a purse.

Hair-dos for males in 2009 went from bald, to curly, to spiked, to short crew cuts. The hair was topped off with all types of designer eye glasses and sun glasses.

The confidence to do-your-own thing during 2009 was really the way most people dressed. There was no one way to dress, and there were many trends that many people were not afraid to try.

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