Staff Writer
Odds are that nine out of 10 girls have been hearing the same fashion adages since they were little.
No white after Labor Day, no stripes and plaids and don’t even think about carrying a purse that doesn’t match your shoes!
Well, it is time to tell your mom that her fashion rules have been outdated and are irrelevant in the fashion world of 2011.
The rules I am about to share with you are rules that women have been following for a very long time. I am here to tell you how to break all of these rules for the sake of style.
This year, white is going to be the new trend for winter. Pair it with black, and you’ll create the perfect, trendy winter look.
Another trick to wearing white outside of the summer season is actually in the fabric you choose. The key to wearing white the “right” way is to pick a fabric that isn’t too summery like cotton, linen and eyelet. Those are summery white styles. Aim for the wool, cashmere and flannel fabric, and you can rock white any time.
The next to break is the classic black-and-brown-don’t-match rule. When worn correctly, the combination actually looks quite sophisticated. Try wearing a pair of rich brown trousers with a black turtleneck.
Or, for evening events, instead of wearing a black dress try a brown one. And dress it up with beaded black jewelry.
One combination of these two colors to avoid is wearing a brown shoe with black pants. That is still a big no, no!
Next, the trick to carrying a bag that doesn’t match your shoes is to pick a bag that complements the shoes and the outfit. I think every girl that doesn’t aspire to be a 50’s housewife has broken this rule once or twice.
Now, I saved the best and perhaps most controversial for last: mixing prints and patterns. This is actually a high-fashion must! Pick a print with a dominant color and pair it with another print containing that same dominant color. It is as simple as that.
And there you have it, ancient fashion rules broken!
Taylor Hassa may be reached at thassa@springfieldcollege.edu