What To Wear

Spring has arrived! Daylight savings time has begun, which is always a tell-tale sign, and we have been teased with some beautiful days thus far.  On the fashion front: Brighter colors and new styles are arriving in stores, leaving behind the gloomy grays and browns of winter.  I don't include black in that thought as it is my personal, year-round favorite.  I also know that many of you are with me on that.

But allow me to introduce you to the Plaid Shirt. Plaid started appearing in stores last fall and continues in full force this spring.  I must admit I wasn't a fan of this style at the start.  I thought of Paul Bunyan, lumberjacks, and Al Borland (of "Home Improvement" fame...I was a sitcom queen).  Lately, however, I've started to see the plaid take shape in feminine, colorful combinations of shape and style.  And, I was hooked.  I also realized it was another trend that is wearable by all body types and sizes, and suitable for all personalities.  It's all what you make it.

Still, there are a few tricks of the trade. Take note:

*Fit is always important.  To keep an updated, feminine look the shirt should be fitted and follow your curves.  Look for shirts with ruched or tucked sides, or a cinch in the back to accentuate your waist.  Adding a skinny belt is a homemade option for adding shape.  Choose a top with ruffles for an added feminine touch (love that!!)

*Watch for different fabrics.  The flannels of fall tend to lead the shirt in the masculine direction.  Keep it lightweight or sheer with a camisole to lighten the look.  Many are shown with a button and tag on the sleeve giving you the option of rolling up the sleeve or wearing it long...your choice.

*Color is always another point to consider.  Use your same instinct as you would in choosing a sweater or another top.  If you are feeling a bit bold and trendy, you might like black with a splash of neon (I must stress only a splash).  Refreshing colors include shades of purple and blue.  The blouse will be a bit more conservative in neutrals like brown, tan and gray. 

Ideas on how to get the look...

*Try a plaid tunic with leggings and a pair of flats.  Add a belt to find your waist.

*When adding your accessories, keep it simple.  The plaid shirt is a statement in itself.  Try a few long, chain necklaces and a pair of hoop earrings.

*Dark wash skinny jeans are perfect bottoms to compliment your look.  Not into skinnies yet?  Not a big deal...choose a slim boot cut jean.

*A plaid shirt-dress with tights is a great, easy look.  I would go with the conservative colors in this scenario as it is a lot of plaid at one time.

*If you're a bit skittish about this trend, try a plaid tank under a cardigan or boyfriend blazer.  The style will show through without dominating your look.

Plaid can be fun and is worth a try.  You only need to invest in a piece or two, so it is an economical way to update your closet.  Start small and graduate to a larger piece if you are so inclined.  Don't over-do it. 

Have fun!

By Kathleen Sullivan

Kathleen Sullivan, a self proclaimed lifelong lover of clothes, lives in Marshfield and works as the manager and buyer for The Clothes Line in Scituate.  With several years experience in retail, Kathleen applies a sharp fashion sense to help women of all sizes, shapes, and attitudes discover their own personal style.