New season brings new fashions

Published: Friday, July 18, 2008 at 3:30 a.m.
Last Modified: Thursday, July 17, 2008 at 11:35 p.m.

Fall is just around the corner, bringing with it new trends in fashion for men and women. Staff Writer Michelle Rupe Eubanks spoke to Jane Wilson, chairwoman of the department of Human Environmental Sciences at the University of North Alabama, about how to get your wardrobe ready for the change in seasons.

Q: What is the No. 1 thing men and women can do to get their wardrobes ready for fall?

A: Assess their needs - dress codes, activities, lifestyles, consider their budget and take a long look at what is on hand. Hopefully, those wise investments of classic styles in basic pants or skirts and jackets will provide the foundation for the trendy styles or colors of the season. By adding a current color in a blouse, shirt or accessory (a tie for men), the classics look fresh and new season after season.

Q: What are some of the fashion trends to be on the lookout for as we approach the cooler months?

A: As I read about the fashion lines for fall, some trends seem to be:

rich colors such as purple, which is great for UNA, and rich jewel tones in blues and greens.

the natural waistline will be emphasized; belts will be important.

the matching suit in color and fabric.

the easy dress style, such as the wrap dress in drapable fabrics.

the flashy handbag in patent leather and bright colors.

ankle boots.

It will be interesting to see if our hometown stores saw these trends in market and bring them to us this fall.

Q: How important is it to begin with a relatively clean slate, for instance, your closet, and why?

A: Any wardrobe strategy will begin with assessing what is on hand. Taking an inventory and weeding out what will not work is important. Hopefully, wise purchases of classic, quality styles in basic colors have been made and kept in good wearing condition. Season after season, these classics can be the foundation or the essentials for building and extending the wardrobe. Wise purchases in basic colors - black, gray and brown - and natural fibers - cotton, wool, silk and linen - will last for many seasons and can be worn most of the year. Basics are easy to buy. We should invest in the best quality we can afford because they are important pieces we can rely on season after season.

Q: Tell me a little bit about some accessories to invest in for the fall.

A: The accessory business has become a huge industry. The fashion cycle for accessories has aligned itself with the clothing cycle. Accessories come in and out of fashion very quickly, just like clothing; remember the poncho? It is a good way to add color or a little flash without changing the whole wardrobe. It sounds like belts, bright colored bags and shoes will be important for fall of '08.