4 of 19

Write now Article Tools

When spring hits El Valle the delta will bloom and so will the fashions. While natural fabrics may be the new rage all across the country in 2008, in RGV, they will be anything but dull. So prepare to embrace the luxury of bold silk scarves. Slip on soft and light dresses in boldly patterned organic cotton lawn. Add a blazing silk cami to your creamy tailored linen suits and plenty of turquoise jewelry, locally made, of course. Pair your little black dresses with colorful chokers of recycled glass beads. Get edgy and urban by ditching your dull, prissy, overpriced leather handbag for a hip, young utility bag made from hemp, canvas or even recycled billboard.

Don't be shy about embracing these natural trends. Since natural fibers are hollow, they provide for good insulation; they will keep you cooler during the warm months and warmer during the cool months. They are also better at wicking moisture than artificial fibers. So at the end of a hot day, you will smell better for having worn your comfy cotton peasant blouse rather than your polyester tube top. In this plastic-fabric world, natural fibers are associated with lasting beauty and good workmanship. The same way that you'd never part with your winter wardrobe of wool, angora and cashmere, your summer wardrobe of cotton, silk, linen and hemp will become tasteful and enduring staples year after year, creating looks that are never dated and never out of place.

Hopefully, the one thing that won't be blooming in El Valle this summer is your face. Avoid painful sunburns and nasty peeling with a good hat. Oh yes, I said HAT. While we'd all like to avoid stereotypes pertaining to the fashion choices of cowboys' girlfriends, a good hat will be your friend this season. Recent research has linked the use of certain chemical sunscreens with increased cancer risk. So stock up on mineral make-up, and look for sunscreen containing zinc or titanium dioxide. But when in doubt, slap on a hat that covers your face and neck. This goes for women, children and men.

Due to the scares concerning imported goods last Christmas, regional artesian and craft goods will be huge across the country this summer. Scour the local festivals like Borderfest and Riofest for one-of-a-kind finds that also help support your local economy. Shop locally owned businesses for wares backed by the know-how and integrity of your neighbors. Look to online auctions and crafting sites as a way to fill in gaps without resorting to items stamped with "Made

• 1
• 2
• next page >>

Add your voice

Know something about Rio Grande Valley: 2008 Spring and summer fashion trends?
We want to hear your view. Write now!