Five Secrets to Keeping in Style for 2012 and Beyond

Today, fashion is all about confidently mixing it up with textures, colors, and styles.  It used to be that you could go through a fashion magazine and instantly get a sense of what to wear to be stylish.  Now it is anyone’s guess, and it is confusing for even the most die-hard fashionista!   Listed below are five secrets to help you look updated and on trend with fashion, no matter what your budget. 

 1. Show Your Shape

Shape is an important element in fashion today.   But shape doesn’t always mean skin tight.  In fact, clothes look best when they skim, not adhere to the body.  If you are nervous about emphasizing your figure, wear a layering piece over a gently shaped top or tank. 

2. Keep it Simple

Matchy-matchy is out, and the effortless, easy look is in.  Dress with a sense of simplicity.  The more un-complicated you appear, the more confidence you express in your wardrobe.  Be wary that you don’t get too plain, however.  Simplicity in dressing is meant to serve as a platform for extraordinary accessorizing!

3. Layer

Layering is another strong element in fashion and shows no signs of slowing down.   That third piece not only makes you more interesting, but also helps camouflage and creates a focal point where you want the eye to go.  The key to successful layering is to keep the first layer shaped or belted. 

4. Accessorize

Try bolder jewelry but keep it in scale to your size and personality.  Belts and skinny scarves are big sellers this season, and when worn with layering pieces, they give you focus, shape and an instant style update.   

5. Make a Personal Statement

This is the best secret of all….your look needs to express your own personality and lifestyle!  Wear interesting jewelry and accessories that suit you.  Experiment with mixing pieces together.  Get away from strict matching of your jewelry and accessories as it can actually make you look older!

 This decade, it will be about going away from a fashion formula, and creating your own look with a sense of newness and freshness – a sense of surprise.  Once you know a few key secrets, you take the guesswork out of fashion and can look fabulous anytime!

Walmart’s Fall From Fashion

It finally happened.  Walmart’s strategy to make a grand entrance into the highly competitive world of fashion in hopes of turning even higher profits has has fallen flat.  Now after a few short years, they are closing their New York offices, and returning their focus on clothing basics, like socks, underwear and tee shirts.  Am I the only one who saw that one coming?  I still scratch my head and wonder what the heck these highly paid executives were thinking when they poured millions of dollars into this venture.  Walmart is so deeply branded in low prices and basics, it is impossible for them to succeed in a category like fashion, where the focus is on glamour, image, esteem, beauty and power.