You’re in My Sun

By Sara Gentry

With 80-degree days popping up and summer vacation plans in the works, it’s time to start thinking about swimwear. Instead of dreading the fluorescent-lit fitting room, dwell instead on how great it feels to be lying poolside or out on the sand. The triangle top, as always, reigns supreme in the world of bikinis, but thanks to the resurgence of ’80s teen culture, neon shades and bow-shaped bandeaus are making their appearances on racks. It was only a matter of time after Wayfarers got hot again, right? Also appearing from the ’80s (and keeping the nautical trend going) are the more sophisticated, beachy resort looks — think Magnum P.I. or Miami Vice. If you’re not into the ’80s, fret not. There are plenty of other styles available this season.

True Romance

By Sara Gentry

[caption id="attachment_5084" align="alignleft" width="460" caption="American Eagle"][/caption] Floaty, girly florals will be everywhere for spring. Romance and ruffles will rule. But it’s not spring, and with a foot of snow on the ground, how can we start making that transition? Mix your romantic pieces with black. Look for ivory and vintage pinks to pair with black skirts, pants and dresses. Throw on a few strands of pearls, or make a cameo appearance with a brooch. Think of a fussy old lady or a 1920s night on the town. Classic, antique looks are unique, especially when paired with something more modern, like skinny jeans, opaque tights or combat boots.

Attention seekers

By Sara Gentry

[caption id="attachment_4606" align="alignleft" width="225" caption="Click for large view"][/caption] Instead of looking for the perfect dress for the holiday party (or parties!) on your calendar, take the pressure off the fitting room and look for the perfect shoe first. There’s an unprecedented number of chic holiday shoes available now. From Target to Saks, the selections are vibrantly colored, glitzy, sky-high and even thigh-high — and sometimes all at once. Don’t waste your time on a plain, old pair of black pumps when you can find something fantastic just as easily and, often times, more affordably.

Go Glam

By Sara Gentry

[caption id="attachment_4483" align="alignleft" width="225" caption="Click the image to view these glam looks."][/caption] People have been saying it for years: “The ’80s are back.” We’ve been wearing leggings and tunics for ages, but some of the more outrageous looks haven’t quite reached the mainstream again. This season, fur coats, body con dresses, sequins and over-the-knee boots are back. Ultra-glam ‘80s looks abound, and I love it. If you’re not ready to commit fully to this anachronistic trend, grab a boyfriend blazer (the shrunken corduroy and velvet blazers of 2002 don’t count) and a pair of leather booties. You won’t necessarily look like you’re backstage at a Van Halen concert, but you’ll be taking advantage of the fun pieces available right now.

Layer by layer

By Sara Gentry

[caption id="attachment_4445" align="alignright" width="218" caption="Courtesy of H&M"][/caption] As the winds get chillier, the opportunity arises to wear more and more clothes and accessories. In the heat of the summer, sweaters, hats, chunky scarves and gloves aren’t even on the radar. But now, a graphic tee, shorts and sandals can be turned into a graphic tee, a V-neck, a vest, a jacket, leggings, a skirt, legwarmers, boots, an extra-long knit scarf, a beanie and gloves. All in one outfit! I love to stock up on V-neck sweaters, cardigans and vests. They’re super versatile and look great over a graphic tee and a beat-up pair of jeans. Graphic tees are still important, because too many solid colors can get boring, even if you have on eight layers. Colored tights (patterns can get distorted and be unflattering, so go for solids most of the time) are a great accessory, along with all the cute hats that are available this time of year. Scrimp where you can, and splurge on something classic and high-quality, like a good pair of Frye boots.

Not-so-Summery Dresses

By Sara Gentry

Summertime doesn’t doom those who don’t like frills to wear light, floral, ruffled, pastel, boho slip dresses. Black is still an option. The little black dress never goes out of style, right? So show some leg in something that doesn’t look like you just left the beach. Instead of flowy and loose, go for a structured bustier cut. Then slip into some heavy-duty platforms and enjoy summer in winter colors. If you get chilly, throw on a must-have marching-band style jacket or a fur stole.

Pearls of wisdom

By Submission For The Southside Times

The silk or nylon cord that holds your strand of pearls can wear out. The Cultured Pearl Information Center recommends a fine pearl necklace tat is worn a few times each week should be restrung every six months. Pearls worn just a couple of times each month should be restrung once a year.

- Household Magic

Matching socks

By Submission For The Southside Times

When choosing socks, the basic rule is to consider the suit instead of the shoe – in other words, if you’re wearing a navy suit with black shoes, reach for navy socks. And when wearing a light suit, make sure the socks are darker than the suit but a shade or so lighter than the shoes.

- GQ

Spice up your LBDs

By Sara Gentry

[caption id="attachment_2865" align="alignleft" width="154" caption="Picture of Mary-Kate Olsen, courtesy of H&M (photo by Patrick McMullan; bib necklace, Banana Republic; scarf, Old Navy; bracelet and ring, Erickson Beamon for Target; shoe, Nordstrom."][/caption]One of the most classic wardrobe staples is the little black dress. And if you’re a frequent customer of the LBD, one of the most important wardrobe lessons is how to spice it up. Thankfully, there has probably never been more accessories available to pile on. How much and what kind are important questions, and they should have different answers depending on what look you’re hoping to achieve. A wide, studded or riveted belt (a la Mary-Kate) adds the same kind of edgy drama a pair of gladiator heels would provide. And, believe it or not, it’s still chic and formal. Other options include scarves, bib necklaces, colorful or metallic footwear or loud jewelry. Punches of color and metallics turn a simple outfit into a noteworthy look.