Remember This? The Return Of Retro (NAPSA)—Ex-flower children may get a hint of deja vu this sea- son, as fashionistas hail the return of ’60s-inspired styles. They’re calling it the “mod factor,” and it borrows from past trends, icons and culture. “From apparelto accessories, to footwear, to eyeliner, this mod look is hotter than hot,” according to “DSN Retailing Today,” a trade publication for retail executives. Soft sweaters and cocoon-shaped knits are timeless classics. For instance, you'll see the mod motif on short sweaters inspired by the Andy Warhol leggy icon Edie Sedgwick. Look for the sweaters—made by Designers Originals—to be paired with leggings that let wearers strut their stuff in retro style. Those with a wild side may opt for the designer’s cheetah-print sleeveless shells, or if you’re looking to feel cozy but commanding, you can give one of their belted cardigans with brass buttons a shot. These sweaters are all made with a new material that combines silk, cotton and nylon to deliver equal parts softness and shape. The designer house has already made a nameforitself as being “all about feel-good fashion,” but it plans to broaden its reputation with its mod-inspired styles. Of course, classic styles will always have their place, and Designers Originals has a collection that may be tough to beat. Designs include pearl-button cardigans, soft sweater blazers, cocoon-shaped knits and menswear must-haves in hound’s-tooth and argyle. And since adornments play a big role in bringing an outfit together, new collections feature top-stitch embroidery on pullovers, faux fur on acrylic chenille sweaters and pearl trim on flyaway cardigans. Add those upgrades to the jet bugle beads, nail heads and lace inserts featured throughout the collection and you can probably see why the line has been described as giving “a fresh face to retro femininity.” Sequined sweaters paired with leggings are retro-chic.
