Polished Sophistication For The Best Dressed (NAPSA)—It’s thelittle details that make this fashion season the best in years. Dramatic sleeves, fitted waists and high necklines are key trends. Fashion expert Laura McDowell explains why today’s looks are both polished and sophisticated. “There are subtle touches of traditional menswear that have taken on a feminine feel. Consider ties at the neck on blouses, herringbone and plaid patterns and wide-leg pants. The styles are modern yet wearable.” Fortunately, building a stylish wardrobe need not be expensive. Here are a few hints on how to do it: In terms of color, look for jewel tones and lots of shine. Metallics add a modern edge to everything from clothes to shoes and accessories. Consider all shadesof blue and gray. Suits combine a cropped jacket with a pencil skirt. A key focus is necklines: cowlneck sweaters, bow blouses, turtlenecks and Peter Pan collars. Wide-leg pants offer a flattering silhouette when worn with a contoured sweater or belted jacket. Wide-leg denim “trouser” jeans look great with sweaters, blouses andjackets. Handbags are extreme— either oversized or small. Some of the best feature suede, embossed and patent leather, metal hardware, animal prints and metallic leather. Eye-popping colors such as kelly green, orange and deep purple create a strong fashion statement. The clutch is definitely in. Dresses are a key wardrobe staple. Indulge in a soft knit, geometric print or baby doll version. Belts are everywhere—over dresses, jackets, sweaters and Knit sweater dresses are a “must have” this season, along with baby doll dresses (especially in a geometric print) and “mod” looks with a short hemline. coats. Go for wide waist-cinchers or sleek, narrow bands. * Opaque tights effectively update youroutfits. Pumps look new with peep toes, two-tone spectator designs and chunky heels. Look for metal ornamentation, plaids and stripes, tweed, herringbone and patent leather. Boots run the gamut from knee-high to the ankle shootie (shoes and boots in one). Gloves provide the right touch of ladylike glamour; try a pair in crimson red or cobalt blue to jazz up any wardrobe. Hats are back, especially military or “cabbie” caps with small accents such as buttons andfitted knit styles. Add colorful jewelry in earth tones, such as amber and turquoise. Look for cocktail rings with stones, charmlike necklaces, hoop earrings and pearls with gold or silver. You can find these styles and more at T.J. Maxx. For the near- est store, call (800) 2TJ-MAXX or visit www.tjmaxx.com.
