Savage Style

Erin Hagström's outfit blog Calivintage is an exception to the definition of onomatopoeia. It's pronounced exactly how it sounds, but your actual reaction sound to the page may vary. Maybe you'll awe at her eclectic style, ooh at her eccentric look or hmm at her edgy Anna Wintour-esque bob. For sure, Erin's style is where 'Vintage' meets 'Vogue' - the sound for that? pow!

dress - knitted dove linen dress; shoes - kork ease 'ava' in waterbag; thrifted vintage purse

top - thrifted vintage silk blouse; jumper - boutique by jaeger denim dungaree; bag - thrifted vintage; scarf - vintage vera scarf; shoes - swedish hasbeens peep toe super high

dress - leah goren handmade cat print dress; jacket - bensoni sailor trench coat; shoes - vintage salvatore ferragamo flats; bag - j.w. hulme mini legacy bag

hat - vintage straw hat; dress - boutique by jaeger stripe prom dress; shoes - swedish hasbeens braided sky high; bag - baggu duck bag

So how did Erin get into thrifting? It runs in the family:

"I’m sure if you've been reading for a little while, you’ve noticed how often the subject of my mom comes up on here! There’s no way to say it without being cheesy, but she is a true inspiration to me. She’s the woman who would wake me up early on the weekends to go rummaging for treasures at estate sales, and who took me to the thrift store at least 2 times a week after school, and who would drive us out to hell and back searching all over southern California for cool vintage boutiques and antique shops for whatever interesting things we could find. And to this day, even though she lives all the way out in Arizona, when I get to see her a couple of times a year, she brings boxes and bags of vintage finds to share with me. It would be an understatement to say that she’s the reason I am so in love with vintage and with getting dressed up in general!"

hat - felt hat from the local drug store; top - asos pussybow blouse; skirt - snoozer loser nyc hand-printed linen skirt; shoes - castaner espadrilles

dress - j.crew; hat - j.crew summer straw hat; belt - h&m; shoes - nine west vintage american collection

shirt - j.crew; sweater - vintage cashmere; dress - vintage; shoes - vintage salvatore ferragamo flats; bag - j.w. hulme mini legacy bag; sunglasses - karen walker number six; bike - m8 courtesy of public bikes

blouse - deyrolle pour opening ceremony fox blouse; pants - zara; bag - cambridge satchel from modcloth; sunglasses - karen walker; shoes - céline spring 2011 wedges from barney’s

Erin's style is easy and true to Californian's laid-back cool. To borrow from the lyrical musings of The Runaways "California Paradise":

The kids are ripping up the streets

In their super cars

All night parties and loud guitars

Hot hot neighborhoods

Its the silver sound

Wicked Hollywood goes round and round

California - you're so nice

California - your paradise!

dress - stop staring!; shoes - vintage candies from pretty penny vintage in oakland; hat - vintage straw hat; sunglasses - tom ford nikita

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New Fashion Line by Kanye West?

Kanye West is ever present in the fashion world, whether he's sitting front row at shows around the globe, or making bold statements with his own wardrobe. West tried to capitalize on this notoriety by creating his own line in 2008-2009 called Pastelle.

In Sept. of 2009, after a year of devotion to the project, West was said to have only produced three articles of clothing and a belt. Images from his look-book were then released, but West's rep told the press that the line would not be produced. Some say he was too meticulous with the designs and was never satisfied with the samples. Others speculate the clothing line was just a trick to gain more press.

West told Ellemagazine that same year, “Did you not see the Lindsay (Lohan) and Ungaro collection? That was 911 for celebrities doing fashion. After that I thought ‘Well I can't do a line now’."

In May 2011, West released a limited run collection of scarves inspired by the artwork from his latest album, My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy.

West collaborated with M/M (paris) to produce five silk-printed scarves sold exclusively on M/M’s website, the RSVP Gallery in Chicago and the French Boutique Colette. Only 100 of each scarf print was produced and were last quoted at selling around $410.

West's additional forays into fashion include: working alongside Nike to release his popular high-end "Air Yeezy" sneakers, collaborating with Louis Vuitton in developing a line of casual footwear for the company’s 2009 spring/summer lineup and interning at the Italian luxury brand Fendi while staying in Rome around the time of his album 808s & Heartbreak's release.

According to a recent report by the UK's Telegraph, a sources close to Kanye said he will start working on a new clothing line in Paris shortly. This high-end collection will be for both men and women. It is rumored that he is setting up shop there to receive inspiration and to study from the world-renowned designers that also create there. Not that he hasn't already been seen cramming. During this year's Spring 2011 shows, West was seen on the front rows for Rodarte, Jean Paul Gaultier, Chanel, Alexander Wang, Sonia Rykiel, Givenchy, Lanvin, Vivienne Westwood, and Jean Charles de Castelbajac.

He is rumored to be presenting Céline designer Phoebe Philo with an award at the CFDA Awards today, June 6. This may come as little surprise since he's mentioned her in his music ("...and my chick in that new Phoebe Philo,") and recently got a lot of flack for wearing a Céline blouse to perform at Coachella.

Hopefully, West will continue to make his mark on the fashion world, through his own style and perhaps (yet another) pending clothing line. While there is no fixed date for West's first showing, it is believed that a presentation-style format is slated for September, in time for the 2012 spring/summer season collections.

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Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I am currently pregnant with my first child and while the excitement and preparation of being a mommy is all-consuming, I'm very concerned about maintaining my personal sense of style as my belly is ever-expanding. I've seen women in maternity clothes (i.e. circus tents) and that look just isn't me! I want to embrace the belly! How do I develop my maternity look for work and for play: (1) without breaking the bank and (2) with absolutely NO MUUMUU dresses?

Signed,

Maternity Wear for Blossoming Baby Bump

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Dear M.W.F.B.B.B.,

Just because you're "with child" doesn't mean you have to be without style. Maternity wear has come a long modern way since the days of women being relegated to wearing muumuu's for any reason other than channeling Mrs. Roper from Three's Company.

As your pregnancy progresses you're going to want to invest in a few key pieces of maternity wear - two pairs of maternity jeans, two pairs of maternity work pants, four to six maternity tank tops - and/or a belly band - and solid colored maternity tops as you progress throughout your pregnancy. Escape the higher cost of maternity wear by looking at the sales sections first. Even if its a little larger than you are at that time, you can tell if you'll grow into it. Also, if its something you like you should get it so as you to continue to expand your family from the inside out you'll have new affordable baby-on-board clothing to look forward to wearing. Not only will this help you evade the feelings of "I'm pregnant and nothing fits" but it will work as an overall confidence booster if you're ever feeling at odds with yourself and your bodies changing landscape.

Look for maternity tops - or dresses - that appeal to your sense of style and work with your current wardrobe accessories. Go for jewel-toned tops and dresses that will pop against your skin tone and will add to your growing glow. A statement necklace, pair of earrings or bangles and bracelets will help draw attention away from your midsection and back to you. Even shirts or dresses that show off your cleavage or décolletage will draw the attention back to you and not your pregnancy.

So you see, you can move into maternity and avoid muumuu-ing. The closest you may come to a loose, body skimming dress would be in the form of an empire waist or halter dress which will be your friend once you start to reach your due date. This advice should help you keep your style while highlighting your pregnancy. The expression "you can have your cake and eat it too" comes to mind but in your case, you can have your baby and save the cake till after you've shed the post-baby weight.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: Dwaun@shoppingsavage.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

My husband is in the military and I've tried taking him shopping for updated casual clothing but he won't budge. Any ideas how I can get him to at least open up to the idea of new clothes?

Signed,

Wife of a Drill Sergeant

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Dear W.O.A.D.S.,

A similar question was posed not long ago by a girl looking to revamp her boyfriend's wardrobe and the same advice applies: proceed with caution. Your husband probably wears army issued attire more than not, undoubtedly leading him to believe his civilian-wear is so under worn he doesn't need anything new, even if you believe the contrary.

So you'll have to initiate revamping his wardrobe. Start out by looking at the brands, sizes and even material composition of what he already owns and looks the best in. Take this information with you as you start to look at adding, and eventually subtracting by way of replacing, out-of-date pieces in his wardrobe.

Just be sure to keep him involved in the process. Although he may grimace at the idea of you spending money on new clothing for him, once you've done the choosing and the charging he'll warm up to the new wears. Most men don't have that much of an invested interest in their appearance due to women taking on the task of keeping their closets current. Without your assistance - or that of his mom, past girlfriends and current girl friends - he would probably be in worse sartorial shape than he is now. With that said, be sure not to throw out anything before consulting him first. Men can become very territorial - and sentimental - when it comes down to the incoming and outgoing of their wardrobes.

For the next phase of operation: closet overhaul, you'll want to try to get him to spend more time in the men's department browsing than you currently do. You want him to take an interest in shopping for himself. Ask him to try on everything you've recently purchased for him and solicit his honest feedback. You may notice after a a few rounds of retail therapy in his honor that he becomes more invested in his casual appearance. The ultimate goal is to not only turn around his wardrobe but his overall approach to shopping for himself. There's no such thing as a clothing commendation but if there was, you would be up for it after you are done with him. Consider your service for the greater clothing good complete: at ease shopper.

On a special note: To your husband, and to all the men and women who serve our great country, thank you.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I lived the past 32-years of my life in warm climates and now, for work, I moved to a place with a real winter. I saw snow for maybe the fifth time in my life and knew I wasn't ready for this climate change clothing wise. Any tips on getting a guy ready for winter without having me overdo it? I can withstand most of the cold, just maybe a few suggestions on where to get a good jacket.

Signed,

Cold Weather Warrior

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Dear C.W.W.,

If there was ever a moment to get on a soap box to vent about men not being properly dressed for winter weather its now. For whatever reason fellas, most of you seem content with having one universal wardrobe that is somehow always slanted towards being dressed for warm weather even in the dead of winter. Countless guys seem to brave the cold with their shoulders raised, head lowered and hands shoved into their pockets. It's deplorable.

So in addition to the tips provided in this previous post, you may benefit from a few others. Look for fine gauge sweaters and trousers made of wool (think merino and cashmere for sweaters; select wool trousers with a silk lining to avoid irritation); a wool overcoat for work and semi-formal occasions; corduroy pants (look for a thinner wale unless you want your pants to age you by 20 years) and rubber overshoes when weather conditions threaten your footwear.

And don't forget to add a few winter accessories to your newly acquired winter wardrobe. Despite the grievous misconception, guys do in fact wear scarves, gloves, hats and extra layers when the weather calls for it. Or at least the smart ones do. Trying to be cool in winter just makes you look...cold.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I have a friend who's constantly borrowing my clothing. If she returns them at all they come back in dire need of care. How can I politely tell her to launder my things before she returns them or really, how do I get her to stop borrowing from me altogether?

Signed,

Best Fashion Friend

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Dear B.F.F.,

You sound like a nice person. So nice in fact that your friend is either knowingly walking all over you, or blissfully unaware of the damage she's doing to your friendship - and not to mention your wardrobe.

The next time she asks to borrow something (assuming she does in fact ask) you need to seize that moment to remind her of how one-sided this business of borrowing has been. Make sure you relay to her how inconvenient - and costly! - her obsession with your closet is, and that a few boundaries need to be set.

First, she is not allowed to wear anything before you've had the opportunity to do so. Next, make her aware of anything that is completely off limits including jewelry - sentimental or otherwise, shoes, intimates and personal products (e.g. perfumes, lotions, makeup, etc.). If she does borrow something, she has to return it in the same, or better, condition than when she acquired it. This also means holding her accountable for replacing anything that she ruins. Lastly, she must borrow and return things in a timely manner. You can negotiate on how large a window of time she has but it would be wise to keep track of the things she borrows just to make sure everything you loan out is indeed returned.

As said before, you sound like a nice person. A nice person who doesn't deserve to have a friend walk all over you, quite possibly in your shoes no less. If you confront her and set forth ground rules she'll either agree or disagree, but let her answer surprise you. You don't want to go into a situation like this with preconceived notions. If your friendship is as strong as you would like to believe, she shouldn't have a problem respecting your wardrobe wishes and you'll get your clothing back without losing your friend. But on the off chance she decides that the new rules are for the birds, then let her fly. Life's too short for fair-weathered fashion friends.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I was compelled to write to you after I read one of your posts. You told a reader that if she has a limited budget that she should focus on well-tailored clothing and nice dresses instead of trendy pieces. However, I'm in the same boat as she is, except I like being a little flashier than your typical shift dress, a string of pearls and heels.

Is there a way to stand out and be trendy while you're on a budget?

Signed,

Trendy Thriftster

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Dear T.T.,

To be trendy and on a budget, you must first learn the importance of editing; not every seasonal trend is your friend. Before stepping foot into any store, take the time to pick apart current fads by using fashion magazines. Create a list of the season's looks and must-have items that you believe will work for you. You'll want to start your fashion perusing up to three months prior to the actual season you want to dress for as most fashion magazines, like fashion collections, are always a season ahead to entice and titillate those who 'have' and those who 'have to save'.

Once you have an idea of what you're looking for, most clothing and accessories - trendy or otherwise - can be found as a "look for less" at your local designer discount stores, secondhand shops, online or through DIY crafting.

The idea here is to apply what you've absorbed from your ready-to-wear reading research and start looking for items on the designer discount end of things to duplicate what appeals most to your trendy sensibilities, while staying within your budget. You still want to use the tips provided in this post and interweave wardrobe staples with trendy clothing and accessories to round out the look. A white oxford and black pants, for example, could be made more contemporary through personal styling and of-the-moment accessories.

Just remember that what you wear should be a reflection of your personal style and not just what designer's dictate. Finding the right balance is key. As Tommy Hilfiger was once quoted as saying: "Trying too hard to follow every trend? You want to look fashionable and put-together, not like you hit every sale rack this season."

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I am a 32-year old guy who has to wear a suit to work everyday. When I walk into my office building every morning all the guys - including myself - look like clones of one another. I want to stand out a bit more, but not by being over the top. Can you help?

Signed,

Corporate Carbon Copy

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Dear C.C.C.,

A suit may seem limiting at first but the cut, color and style are yours for the perfecting if you take the time to have it properly tailored. Most suits purchased off the rack are cut using standard patterns, which means it fits your frame but wasn't fitted for your frame. Take each suit you own to an expert tailor to have them take a look at the quality of the construction and what alterations they would suggest for the best fit. Short of buying bespoke suits, this is a great way to customize suiting you already own as well as have a professional second opinion when trying to decide on the next style suit to invest in.

Once you're properly suited for work, the next area of interest should be your shirt and tie combinations. A solid shirt and tie can read safe, so experiment with blending unexpected colors and patterns. Men's fashion magazines are a great resource for this. They are also great at highlighting additional men's professional accessories that you may want to incorporate into your look. For example, a pocket square would add polish to your suit jacket, just as cuff links would to your shirt. Even a bow tie and/or suspenders would break up the monotony of wearing a standard tie and belt.

Another suggestion would be to look at tweaking your appearance. You'd be surprised at how much of a difference a minor makeover can accomplish. Something as subtle as a new hairstyle or even a few extra sessions in the gym can make a noticeable difference.

Lastly, remember to uphold the basic fashion fundamentals: make sure that your belt and shoes coordinate, own more than black trouser socks and keep all of your clothing clean and crisp. Detailing is what separates the boys from the men; or in your case, the drones from the dandies.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I was born and raised on the East Coast but recently moved to L.A. for work. I've visited before for fun and to see friends but I'm just noticing how differently they dress out here. What's the best way to translate my East Coast flare to my new West Coast surroundings?

Signed,

New York So Cal Gal

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Dear N.Y.S.C.G.,

Each coast definitely has its own sense of culture, climate and clothing. The East Coast has a reputation for having a much tougher edge when it comes to fashion. Most associate structured looks, standout accessories, chic outerwear, all-black outfits and an overall nod to dressing with style and attitude as the East Coast aesthetic. The West Coast, on the other hand, is thought of as having a much more relaxed sense of style. Think sun-kissed locks, ethereal dresses, minimal jewelry, eternal tans and the overall impression that life is one big beach party.

However, fashion today is as fluid as the water that touches each coast. Traveling between the two for work or pleasure has never been easier - save for a few airline restrictions - and combining both coast's styles can be as simple as pairing your East Coast rock with the West Coast's roll-with-the-tide mentality.

Namely, for an East-to-West Coast blended look, you'll want to do a little research. "People watching" is a shared past-time for both coasts, and now you can put this "skill" to good use. You'll be able to view first-hand what trends are currently being worn around town and which you would consider duplicating via a shopping spree or just by re-imagining how to wear what's already in your closet. You will also find that the local alternative weekly papers are a great barometer for a sense of the local culture as well as which stores may carry whatever caught your "watching" eyes.

Keep in mind that the idea behind West Coast style is to appear pulled-together without much effort. Take this ideology, and that of Coco Chanel, and once you're done dressing, remove one accessory. It will give your outfit an air of ease parallel to that of your new surrounding's laid-back flair. Also, be sure to take advantage of the many vintage stores and consignment shops in the area. They typically serve as great places to start looking when experimenting with your style.

Depending on how long you stay planted out West, the style-pairing will become second nature. Even though the coastal characteristics are still somewhat true, once you feel comfortable incorporating your new working-knowledge of how the west wears it, you'll realize that the fashions aren't as different so much as the attitudes behind them. You can be an East Coast girl with an adopted West Coast aesthetic and vice verse. Just remember to stick with what feels natural to wear and go with the flow. There is a reason the West Coast is three-hours behind EST and the sun sets there: it's geographically impossible to contend with the laissez-fair grandeur, so don't. Besides, you're going to need all the strength you can muster if you're ever going to survive rush-hour traffic on the 110.

Everyone wishes they could be California girls but it takes more than blond hair, a tan and a pension for warm weather and salt water. Get the detailed steps here.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I just relocated for a job and inadvertently joined the gym that most of my new co-workers use. I generally work out in old college t-shirts and basketball shorts but now I'm not so sure this look is going to cut it anymore. I know there is a large selection of athletic clothing out there, but all I want is comfort with a twinge of coordination just in case I have to run an errand before or after my workout or more importantly, inevitably run into a co-worker.

Do you have any athletic-gear recommendations?

Signed,

Workout Worrier

------------

Dear W.W.,

There was a time when I would have said that your free t-shirts and old shorts were sufficient as far as workout clothing goes, but that was before I became a convert to moisture wicking fabric.

The major benefit of this synthetic material over cotton is its ability to pull moisture away from the body and keep you feeling cooler and drier during your workout. Most cotton clothing clings at the mention of sweat, creating a moist exoskeleton that can weigh down on the body. It also doesn't help that even a petri dish would cringe at just how much bacteria can grow on cotton clothing worn regularly for exercise.

Do yourself a favor and venture into a sporting goods store and checkout their dri-weave selection. Keep in mind that most of this clothing runs small or true to size, so you definitely want to try on the items to make sure that you have a full range of motion. Look at investing in at least five shirts, five shorts and a full-zip jacket and pants for a post-workout cover-up and/or for cool weather outdoor activities.

And don't neglect south of your ankles. Moisture-wicking socks can be just as important as the clothing. (Did you know that a typical workout produces enough sweat in your feet alone to fill an 8-ounce glass?) And even in a gym setting, your shoes are taking as much a beating as your body, so be mindful to replace your workout sneakers every 3-4 months.

With just a fraction of the time, energy and money you spend on your work appearance, your workout appearance will be in tip-top shape in no time. And once you are properly outfitted, break in your new clothing the best way you know how: by getting physical.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

While my assistant is on maternity leave, a temp was assigned to me. I've noticed that her style of dress is a bit unprofessional. She wears low cut tops, short skirts and high heels. She's giving all of the guys something to talk about...and the women too. As her direct supervisor - and might I add a happily married man with three great kids - should I say something to her about her clothing, have her reassigned or just wait until my assistant returns and enjoy the view...from a safe distance?

Signed,

Provocative Temp Worker Dilemma

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P.T.W. D.,

I would avoid saying something to her directly. You don't want her to misconstrue your good intentions as a personal assault, or worse: an advance. (Being called into 'HR' for a refresher course on "sexual harassment in the work place", for example, is not the way you want to spend a Monday afternoon.)

The best approach would be to have a female colleague that you trust, and one that has also taken note of your temp's potential wardrobe malfeasance, speak to her one-on-one. Encourage her to invite your temp out for lunch (mainly to get away from prying eyes and ears) and let her in on the office chatter.

If the next day there isn't an immediate improvement in her wardrobe then it may be time to step in. Call her into your office and use your judgement as to whether this should be an open-door discussion. Lead with a brief performance review but address her choice of office attire by asking her how her lunch-date went with your co-worker. That should be enough of a reminder for her to get the hint.

If all else fails, have 'HR' step in to put her back through "office dress code" training. None of these suggestions will make you popular with your male colleagues, but tell them to look at it as one less distraction at work...and if they're married like yourself, an anniversary gift.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

I am a 34-year old mother of two about to re-enter the work force after taking off the last five years to take care of children and the household. I've stayed somewhat current with fashion but with two screaming toddlers my husband and I can barely get away for a date night, let alone have time to leisurely browse at the mall. Where can I find fashionable clothing versatile enough to wear to work, but also durable enough to withstand getting the kids ready in the morning?

Signed,

Working Mom

------------

Dear W.M.,

First, hire a babysitter one Saturday before you start work to give yourself one day of uninterrupted bliss...I mean, shopping. As you said yourself, you can't possibly browse and be on the amber alert for your kids at the same time.

Start off by purchasing at least three suits (one black, one navy and one dark gray; go for the pant and skirt option if they have it) and two of every button-down that you like. As a mother of two - or just as a rule of thumb for anyone - having a back-up shirt either at home or at work is going to be something you'll learn is less elective and more essential. Look for shirts that are 'wrinkle free' or have a percentage of elastane (e.g. spandex, lycra, etc.). Not only will these shirts be a better body fit, they also hold up well through repeated washes and are easier to iron. Other key pieces to incorporate: sheath dresses, wrap dresses and cardigans.

The idea here is to live in layers. Your days are going to be hectic and will require you to juggle being mom and mrs. at the office. Layers are great for those times you may have to cover a last-minute stain or remove the stained-layer in question. The same goes for footwear - leather is one of the materials you want to go after since its one of the easiest to work with as far as stain and scuff removal.

The ideal clothing for your situation is out there, you just have to be practical. You'd have to swathe yourself in bubble wrap to avoid the stains, scuffs and haphazard unexpectedness that comes with raising children. Just remember to always keep your spare garment handy, keep a layer close in case you need to camouflage and plan for the unexpected. In other words, all of the things you've learned to do as a mother.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com

Dear Shopping Savage...

Dear Shopping Savage,

Whenever I go out with friends I always dress in black. I just think it makes for a great silhouette, makes it really easy to get ready and I worry less about someone spilling something on my outfit or stepping on my shoes. My friend's say I should incorporate some color and I'm starting to wonder if they're right. What do you think?

Sincerely,

Black on Black

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Dear B.O.B.,

Your head is in the right place. You most certainly want to wear things out on the town that can take a licking, especially if you patron crowded bars, dance clubs or just have one too many cocktails. And there's nothing wrong with wearing black for evening affairs every now and again, but your friends are right: if you don't mix it up you run the risk of being mistaken for a trendy ninja.

First, we have to get you to look at buying color. The next time you go shopping, find exactly what you want in black...and then try it on in a different shade. If they don't have your size in the color that best suits you, choose another color that could work just as well on you. Under no circumstances are you to buy said item in black. This "clothing corporal punishment" is retraining your eye not to immediately go to the black option. You could even come to appreciate the detailing of the item that much more, now that its more visible and pronounced. (Word of advice: You may want a friend to tag along so you actually try on - and purchase - said items in a shade not favored by the grim reaper.)

Next, you want to ensure that your new color rich items have the same "party-proof" faculties as your "black out" wardrobe. Look for footwear made of leather and canvas to have a multitude of cleaning options should something happen and require a little TLC. As for clothing, the best route to take would be either 100% cotton materials or a machine washable blend. You may want to abstain from anything that requires dry cleaning or would be hard to treat for stains like silk, suede or wool.

Accessories are another route to take in your bid against the black. There's not enough space on the internet to outline all of the color options and combinations that you could create just by donning accessories.

The next time you go out you should be all set to embrace a little color. You can still wear your black pieces, just be sure to leave room for a little color variation. Dressing in all black every time you go out sounds so depressing. If nothing else learn to not always appear so serious when you're going out to have a good time. Spin the color wheel and take a few risks; throw caution to the wind. In other words, lighten up.

Need sartorial advice? Email me: ShoppingSavage@gmail.com