Less is More: Staying Sexy While Staying Southern

We Southern girls have been raised to be polite: “yes ma’am”, “no ma’am”, “please”, “thank you”, hosting brunches, making sweet tea, attending Cotillion, and being debutantes are often part of the upbringing of a proper Southern belle. These traditions are nothing to scoff at – they have helped shape the image of the American South since it came to be. However, with today’s pop culture idea of sex appeal being directly related to the amount of skin being shown, it can be difficult for a proper Southern girl to balance her sexiness with her upbringing.

Here are just a few looks that can bring out the beauty in any girl without making Mama cover her eyes in shame!

1. Sweet sundresses: these are perhaps the most obvious choice, but not enough can be said about them. A sundress is the simplest way to stay cool in those humid Southern summers while maintaining femininity and staying modest. Aim for a skirt that hits just above, right at, or just below the knee for the most attractive look, though some styles now reach all the way to the floor (these are not for the clumsy!). A pair of cute flip-flops or low heels can be the deciding factor on how dressy this look is, making the same dress suitable for a casual picnic with friends or a formal outdoor gathering. For the neckline, a halter top is often the most supportive and practical while still having that flirty, sweetheart look to it that is sure to turn heads without attracting unwanted attention.



2. I read a poll a recently that stated that most men believe the sexiest outfit a woman can wear is, of all things, jeans and a sweater. Apparently, I’ve been sexy for years. Who knew? Wearing a flattering sweater with a pair of well-fitted jeans shows off your curves while leaving plenty to the imagination.



3. Are you more of a t-shirt kind of girl? That’s okay, so am I. The problem with t-shirts is that they are often a little too boxy for the shapely female form. Aim for purchasing more fitted shirts with a longer length to them (which elongates and slims the torso) and avoid ones with writing across the chest unless you really don’t mind people reading it. Intently. Dress up a t-shirt with a cute cardigan and you’re ready to go!



4. Break the bad rap that super-high heels have gotten by classing them up. Try wearing your rockin’ pumps with a pair of slacks or jeans and a nice blouse, letting the shoes be the focus of your outfit. For those who would rather attention not be on their upper half, this is a great option and a fun way to wear those shoes without looking a little, well, ahem…



You see? There are plenty of ways to be modest without being boring!

Article by Caroline Sumner

Editors note - Sundresses are quite sexy too!

Dress Up The Tired T-shirt

A little razzle-dazzle never fails to lift one's spirits. Especially in the dead of winter, when days are short, appetites peak and the urge to hibernate sets in.

Blinged-out T-shirts are but one way for a recessionista - or recessionisto - to add sparkle without breaking the bank - or sparking envy - with new bijoux. Here are just a few of the innovative designs now circulating in New Orleans.

With President-elect Barack Obama’s historic inauguration just days away, you’ll help feed the frenzy in these fabulous and inspired Ts from The Afro-American Book Stop. Underneath an iconic rhinestone-encrusted portrait of Obama, the 44th president of the United States, are the varying messages: “President,” “Hope” and “Victory.” The holographic Ts come in black, brown, baby pink, hot pink and navy blue. Small, medium, large and extra-large sizes are available.




The fitted, women’s T-shirts are 95 percent cotton and 5 percent spandex. Unisex Ts are 100 percent cotton. They sell at $20 each.




“People come in the store and fall in love with them,” said proprietress Michelle Lewis, who’d sold one-third of the two-week-old inventory by the end of December. “They like them because they’re different. I ordered these because I hadn’t seen them anywhere else.”

At Accessory Lady, on the other side of town, Patrick DeLatte designs many of his own statement-making bejeweled Ts. He’s been in the T-shirt business for 30 years.

“I expanded on it,” he says of his competitors’ oftentimes cheap and tourist-y shirts. “I wanted to create something that would be an eye-catcher.” All of DeLatte’s T-shirts are minted onto 100 percent high-grade cotton. This is one of two T-shirt shops he owns.

From his studio, DeLatte makes the shirts using a 400-degree heat machine. He presses just a few shirts at a time. Each shirt takes about one minute to create, using self-designed and stock transfers in rhinestone and sometimes studs.

The ever-popular studded fleur de lis and the nouveau kitty love are two current DeLatte designs featured in Accessory Lady of New Orleans. The shirts are priced $21.95 to $27.95 (long sleeves). Inventory is primarily black, but baby pink is also available.




“These [diamond-like sparklers] are not ever gonna come out. No matter how much you wash the shirt or how many years you’ve had it,” he says proudly. “These are quality shirts.”

Visit Accessory Lady of New Orleans at #1 Poydras St. inside the Riverwalk Mall, Level C; (504) 525-8797.

Shop The Afro-American Book Stop at 7056 Read Blvd. in New Orleans East; (504) 243-2436.

Article by Dion M. Harris

Shopping in San Antonio

There’s no question that San Antonio lays claim to the best shopping in South Texas; The reason? Variety! Some will argue that this city is second only to the fashion capitals of New York City and Los Angeles. Entertainment, great food, and fabulous stores are everywhere—if you know where to find them. Take a few tips from the regulars to the San Antonio scene and don’t miss these hot spots.

Rivercenter Mall




Just around the corner from the Alamo, Rivercenter Mall is a giant mecca for fashionistas on the hunt for great upscale shopping. Over 125 shops and restaurants are sure to keep any afternoon occupied. Staple stores include Dillard’s, Foley’s, Gap, Victoria’s Secret, and Foot Locker. Or for something more original, the collection of boutiques and smaller shops offer original glamour. Once the shopping bug is scratched, other attractions include the Rivercenter comedy club, Cyber Zone video arcade, Imax theater (be sure to check out the Alamo film before you see the real site), and daily musical performances at the Rivercenter lagoon, the spectacular inlet that led some to call this the “most beautiful mall in the world.”

Locals arrive by river barge for the ultimate experience! Architectural geniuses took advantage of the Riverwalk by creating the “lagoon,” a contained segment of water that plays host to music events, tour boats, and barges to taxi shoppers to and from stops. If however you arrive by car, the first few hours in the mall parking garage are complimentary. Take note that teenagers arrive in throngs on Friday and Saturday nights.

Location:
849 E Commerce St
San Antonio, TX 78205-3910
Phone: (210) 225-0000

Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 12pm-6pm

Artisans' Alley

Looking for home décor that breaks the mold? Artisans’ Aley boasts over 15 specialty stores for inside or out. Shop country chic at Plain Jane’s, admire hand painted gourds at Wilds and Wovens, pick up a tea set and Victorian goods at The English Ivy, or stop by Back Alley Antiques for a vintage piece of the past. The highlight of dining at the Alley is Apple Annie’s Tea Room and Bakery where home-style cooking is always on the menu.

Here’s an interesting tip. The buildings at the Alley have been transformed to shops from what was once a turn-of-the-century dairy farm owned by Baron George Von Tomasini. It may be especially appropriate then that Artisans’ Alley has been nominated for Best Homegrown Goods.

But it’s not just about the shopping. Other opportunities include cooking classes offered at Katie’s Kitchen, needlepoint coaching from And Sew On, and quilting for beginners at Plain Jane’s.

Location:
555 W Bitters Rd
San Antonio, TX 78216
Phone: (210) 342-9538
Cross Street: Blanco and Hwy 281 N
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm, Sun 12pm-6pm

Frayed

San Antonians with a passion for fashion flock to Frayed. After working in Los Angeles as a fashion consultant to celebrities, designer Kimberly Ducate opened the fashion forward boutique in the heart of San Antonio. Kimberly caters to trendsetters with an eye for the latest styles while keeping her prices within reach of all customers. Her labels include Miss Sixty, LTB Denim, Parasuco, and many others most may not have even heard of.

Location:
434 N Loop 1604 W #1103
San Antonio, TX 78232
Phone: (210) 499-0799
Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-7pm

Nelda's Vintage Clothing

Vintage clothing is one of the hottest trends on the street right now, making Nelda’s a great find for pre-owned designer threads. Choose from a selection of labels for dresses, pants, suites, and shirts reminiscent of the 1940’s. Then accessorize with jewelry and sunglasses to match. Everything here can be had for thrift store prices. Nelda’s is possibly the oldest and largest when it comes to vintage clothing stores in South Texas.

Location:
1621 N. Main #3
San Antonio, TX 78212
Phone: (210) 271-7111
Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-6pm

Article by Lauren V.

Its All About the Shoes

Good shoes are a women's best friend. They have the power to take ordinary clothes into a fabulous, fashionable outfit. Trying on shoes is also the best way to pamper yourself. Below are my favorite shoes for the Fall/Winter 2008 season.



I love the basic black pump feel of these Gucci shoes and I especially adore the stiletto-like heel. These would be perfect for going from the office out on the town, and every woman should have a trusted pair of black pumps, as they're incredibly versatile and they'll never go out of style.



I've always had a soft spot for the equestrian feel of Burberry rain boots. They're practical but incredibly chic at the same times. I bought the tall boots for myself last year but I'm loving the new shorter boots for slushy winter days. Perfect tucked into skinny jeans too!



These Chloe leather pumps are to die for! I love the cork-style heel and the subtle sheen shell color of the shoe. Though these feel very spring-time, I think they would look chic all year round if worn with season-appropriate clothes and accessories.



Chinese Laundry is a super cute, trendy shoe line that includes every type of shoe and boot you could ever want. These plaid cut-out shoes are gorgeous and affordable too, at only $59.99. I love the sexy take on workplace shoes.

There are my favorite picks for Fall and Winter! I'm dreaming of sandals and platforms; spring can't come soon enough!

Article by Bria Berger

Where Have All the Suits Gone?

Initially Italian suits became well known and worn in Western Europe . Then the gigolos and the dons gave then a disreputable name. Finally in the 1930’s the Italian suit gained back the respect of the fashion world. In this day and age Italian suits are expressed to be the most fashion attire to be worn by a gentleman.

Why then don’t we see men down south wearing them? Guys you don’t have to be a lawyer, a doctor or a police detective to wear one. There is nothing more elegant than a man making a fashion statement with a Valentino, Zanetti or Dolce & Gabbana Italian suit, just to name a few.

You guys spend so much money on brand name sneakers, tools or car parts. Why not set aside a little money a month for a suit that you can pass as business attire or high fashion?

You’ll never know when a first impression will really count! Just take some fashion tips from the men you see on the streets of New York City , Paris , Los Angeles or even Law and Order. There is nothing to lose, only to gain from an Italian suit.



Article by Crisel Smith.

Shoes with Soul

With the holidays creeping up ever closer, it can be easy to forget what the season is really about. Amid all the trips to the mall (or, as I refer to it, the Epicenter of Abject Despair), the wrapping paper piles, and the constant gift lists from friends and family, it is all too easy to overlook the most important part of the holidays. No, not making sure you don’t overdraw your bank account. Giving!



Fortunately, that’s where one of my favorite products steps in. Allow me to introduce TOMS Shoes, a company with a real heart. Not only do they produce incredibly comfortable, stylish shoes, but they are helping to really change the world for the better. For each pair of TOMS sold, a pair will be donated to a child in need. TOMS goes on shoe drops to places in need, such as Argentina and South Africa. Over 60,000 pairs of shoes have been donated to children since 2006, and they are currently working towards a goal of donating 30,000 on their next drop.



They come in a wide variety of colors and fabrics, are suitable for men, women, and children, and are reasonably-priced considering you are really purchasing two pairs. So how about, for those ultra-trendy folks with good hearts on your list, you treat them to a great set of shoes and a little world-changing this year? And go ahead, treat yourself too – you know you deserve it.

To purchase a pair of TOMS, please visit www.tomsshoes.com

Article by Caroline Sumner.

Perfect Party Wear

Dressing for holiday parties can be tricky. While searching for the perfect party outfit, it's common to run into some roadblocks: invitations are vague with attire suggestions, dressing for the weather can be difficult, and company parties lend a whole host of dress code problems.

Keep your holiday parties stress-free and fabulous with dresses. Dresses are automatically easer because you can throw it on and go, and if there are coworkers at the party you can bring a jacket or sweater stay on the conservative side but still very fashionable.

The little black dress is perfect for parties because it can be dressed up or down depending on the shoes, jewelry and outerwear. This LBD from Express would look stunning with black tights and bold, sparkling jewelry for a festive night out. It could also convert into an office-party dress with this smart white jacket, also from Express.



This stunning lace dress from BCBG is a great investment. Modest but sexy, it's flattering on all body types and can be worn from fall to the end of winter. It could even be worn to work in a formal environment with a cute black jacket. This maroon dress, also from BCBG, is so versatile, it could be worn to a company party to a friend's cocktail party and back again!




For more daring souls, there is this one-shouldered sequin dress from FCUK that would be sure to make heads turn with it's sexy neckline and incredible detailing. This white and red Cavalli dress is also a stunning departure from the basic black dress.




Add some beautiful jewelry and footwear to this selection of dresses and you'll have a party outfit ready for any night of the week!

Article by Bria Berger.

Remianing Fasionable in a Recession

It’s official southern belles. We are in a recession and frivolous trips to the mall aren’t a good idea right now, unless you have absolute job security. And that would be who? Well there are the independently wealthy types with funds so globally dispersed that even the best investigative accountant couldn’t track. And we can’t forget the sunshine folks, people with a serious case of economic denial. In other words, everyone in the real world is at risk. We must save money and keep wearing last year’s winter sweaters. But ladies don’t fret! Last year’s clothes don’t have to be boring. You can freshen up any outfit with colorful, fun, and yes, even loud and possibly obnoxious fashion jewelry. All of these pieces were purchased for less than $20.00, mostly from street vendors at various outdoor arts festivals throughout Atlanta. And many of these vendors set up booths in most of the mall aisles throughout the metro areal. Everything is durable and grabs attention whatever the occasion, whether you’re heading to the fox, or the comedy club for a night of laughter and beers. And if something is lost while spinning around the dance floor out at the club, there’s no need for a panic attack because we’re not dealing with diamonds, sapphires, and pearls here people! We’re all suffering from Wall Street’s woes, but you can still enjoy a little “bling” without depleting your savings. So take the change you’d spend on lattes and mochas, and sparkle up your winter wardrobe.

Article Written by Debra Cole

Jeans in the South

Jeans are overpowering in the South. You can’t step out of your house without
seeing a person wearing a pair of jeans. I have to ask,” Why would you wear the same pair of jeans that you’ve worn all day to a HOT nightclub?”

I’ve lived in New York City and I’ve visited Paris, the fashion capitals of the world. Ladies I can tell you honestly that not once did I see someone wear a pair of non-designer jeans at a nightclub. Trust me every fashionista knows that you can do so much with a pair of fitted designer jeans, in turn this is not a strike against all jeans, just the ones you’ve worn all day and now expect to wear out for a night of drinks and meeting new people. If it’s not a designer pair what are you saying about yourself?

Ladies and gentlemen we need to make a fashion statement down south. Let’s show the rest of the world that we too are passionate of what we wear! There is absolutely nothing wrong with taking a fashion risk that truly shows who you are and what you have to offer.

Think Feng Shui! Jeans can only take you so far in life. Note that jeans represent a casual outfit. You shouldn’t want seem casual at a nightclub. A nightclub is the chance to meet new friends and you should always want to make a fabulous first impression. Learn to rely on colors to achieve certain results; the color blue from your blue jeans only says one thing about you.

Did you know that Purple is the hot fashion color this season? Purple is a regal color that is associated with spirituality and regality. Sure you could combine a killer purple shirt with jeans but what’s the fun in that, when another girl could be wearing the same outfit at the same nightclub where you are trying to make your presence know.



Don’t let jeans define your individuality, let your style show your spirit and stand out from the crowd of followers.

By Crisel Smith

Scarves: Fashion Over Function

Sure, it gets cold here in the South, but let’s be honest here: it doesn’t get that cold. This is great for us, because it means we don’t have to bundle up like the kid from A Christmas Story. We get to keep our layers to a minimum and don’t have to sacrifice fashion for warmth.



Perhaps the best example of this is the way we wear our scarves. Though it gets chilly here, it is not necessarily so cold that we actually need the scarf – but we want them because they’re cool. I live in Virginia, which we jokingly refer to as “the most Northern of the Southern states”, and scarves are a craze here, even when the weather is warm. In fact, some boutiques sell lines of “summer scarves”.



The fabrics we tend to make our scarves out of in Virginia are often lighter and looser, rather than the more practical thick woolen version often seen in colder climates. Whether worn draped loosely around the neck like a cowl-necked sweater, tied tight as a noose, or just hung around the shoulders, here in Ol’ Virginny, we tend to use our scarves for fashion purposes, not for their function!

By Caroline Sumner

How to Integrate 1920's Fashions into Your Wardrobe

If you didn't fall asleep in American history class, you'll know that the 1920's represented an era of great wealth in this country---and great wealth (usually) translates into great fashion. That's why if you haven't added a hint of Prohibition or newly won women's suffrage to your wardrobe yet, it's time to run out for something that all your friends will envy. After all, they want to be the "bee's knees" or the "cat's pajamas," too. Here's how to integrate 1920's fashions into your more modern collection; choose these key pieces for starters:

*Cloche hat: This is the 1920's epitome of urban style. You'll likely have to go to a thrift or vintage store for this baby, unless cloche hats happen to be in style during the season you decide to revamp your wardrobe with Roaring 20's goodies. Look for something that flatters your face shape and matches your hair. Many ladies had bobs in the 1920's so you might consider getting a new cut to go along with your hat! You're probably due for a make-over anyway---aren't we all?

*Velvet lounge pants: Search for these pants while doing your fall shopping, as that's when velvet is most popular and therefore a cinch to find. Once you do stumble across a pair of velvet pants, ask yourself the following questions: 1) Are they roomy?, 2) Is the waistband comfortable?, 3) Do they look luxurious?, and 4) Are they a lovely, classic color---like black, chocolate, navy, or wine? If you can answer yes to all four questions, then you have a winner. If not, keep shopping!

*Oxford shoes: Originally designed for men, these enclosed, lace shoes are now available for women, often with a heel or other feminine details. Whether yours are peep-toes or suede or adorned with a ribbon, one thing is clear: they MUST be adorable!

*Clutch: Imagine having so few cares in the world that you need only a small, beautiful bag to hold a couple of prize belongings instead of a big, bulky one that lugs around your life. A clutch should easily fit in the palms of your hands when you put them side to side next to each other; in this case, littler is better. A plain black silk clutch is your most versatile option as it will match just about anything and everything but don't feel the need to be conservative. Go all out! Hunt around for something encrusted in rhinestones or even crystals; perhaps something with pretty embroidery. It has to be so gorgeous that it makes you feel gorgeous just holding it.

*Pearl earrings: Don't groan! Pearls don't have to look stodgy! They can be sophisticated and even daring. You're not looking for plain pearl studs or plain pearl drop earrings. You're on a quest for something special so hunt for a unique pair. Maybe your pearl earrings will have rhinestones. Maybe they'll be black or rose tinted. Most importantly, though, remember how quickly giant pearls can come across as tacky. Use your best judgment in determining what size looks good on you. Also, it's generally a good idea not to combine both pearls and red lipstick in this day and age, since both can be slightly aging.

*Leather purse: This piece should be relatively easy to find. It should be on the small side and in a square or rectangular shape with very few embellishments (perhaps some gold buttons or a chain strap.) The more beaten up the leather, the better. When you see it, the first words that should pop into your head are "elegantly tired," not "old and gross."

*Cardigan sweater: Not just any cardigan, mind you. This sweater has to be feminine and simply feel special. Choose something slightly loose and flowing (remember that 1920's fashions were generally less fitted than those of the 1930's and 40's) in a soft fabric---maybe cashmere, velveteen, or fine cotton. Oh, and make sure that the cardigan has buttons, not a zipper. It can even have a few interesting details, like ruffles or lace trim. This piece will match just about anything, from frou-frou dresses to low-key shirts and pants

Extra Tip: If you figure out that 1920's fashion is your thing, there are several stores you HAVE to visit. Thrift shops and vintage boutiques are always splendid but they're not guaranteed to have what you want. Other places that specialize in a lady-like retro look are Anthropologie and Heritage 21. Macy's, Target, and H&M often carry a few nostalgic looking lines, too. Other pieces you might consider searching for are silk blouses, key charm jewelry, jeweled watches, pencil skirts, and tweed trousers.

By Christine Stoddard

Cowboy Boots: Fashion In or Fashion Don't?

Cowboy boots can be a fashionista's best friend or worst enemy, depending on the style and shape of the boot. As the owner of about a dozen pairs of boots, I've found a formula that works for me when searching for Western boots.



2. Keep it feminine.

Pick boots with subtle feminine details, like good quality leather and detailed stitching. Your ideal cowboy boot should look similar to a traditional boot but it should be obvious that it's made for night life instead of stable life. A scrunched boot or ties can make a boot feel delicate and fashion-forward.



3. Mind the toe.

Traditional cowboy boots have pointed toes made for stable life. Today's cowboy boots come in a wide variety of toes, from pointed to rounded and back again. Try an unexpected square toe to add some intrigue to your look.



4. Wear them wisely.

Cowboy boots look great in a variety of looks. Try skinny jeans and a long sweater by day and a belted long-sleeve dress by night. Ribbed tights also add some depth and help you make an outfit as individual as you are.




Article written by Bria Berger

Fist full of Dollars - or Wearing Cowboy Boots well.

I'm sure you've noticed all the ladies wearing all types of cowboy boots. Some are worn well, some not so. More about that from Bria later.

What about guys? Is there life for the cowboy boot outside of the rural activities of clearing brush. Of course there are. Mostly in the winter and fall, I'll wear cowboy boots a good portion of the time. I've even worn them with suits, which is a fashion faux pas according to the sartorialist. The JR look probably should be left in the 80's.

Here are two sets of my boots. Both are ropers which is a dressier boot, I wear them to the office as well as with jeans in casual settings.





There are two advantages to wearing boots that have nothing with the way they look. First, you never have to worry about matching socks again. I'm sure if your like me, that can be a struggle from time to time. Seriously, how many shades of navy are there?

Secondly, I've found that it really lengthens your stride and slows it down. It forces you to go heel-toe which adds confidence to you body language while walking. Or at least that's what all the pua's say.

Article written by John Murray

Shopping for Winter Fashions: A Blessing or a Curse?

Winter is a better season for fashion than most think. Shopping for winter boots, coats and accessories can turn into a challenging but fun endeavor to find the perfect blend of style and practicality. And with sweater dresses by day and chic cocktail dresses at night, I'm asking myself why summer reigns supreme afterall!

Gucci has beautiful coats this season and I especially like the drop-waist coat here. The stripes accentuate its simple shape but also make it just unusual enough to become your signature jacket.



Urban Outfitters is a great place to find inexpensive, fun accessories like these convertible mittens and printed tassel scarf. Their long leather tassel gloves would be great under a shorter-sleeved trench for warmer climates as well.





Winter boots are a perpetual conundrum for me: what's available (Uggs) aren't cute, and what's cute is super expensive (Burberry rainboots or sheepskin boots). Price aside, I do love these Charles Nolan boots for the frilly take on the classic black boot. They'd get you through the slightly slushy days of winter without sacrificing any style and they'd look perfect under a pencil skirt.



My favorite place for dresses this season is BCBG. I've been eyeing the black cocktail dress because it's such a simple idea but I'm positive it would be flattering on every shape: exaggerated sleeves make your shoulders look wider, your waist will look slimmer, and the cut is modest so you could even wear it to a company party. I love the cowl neck on the cream sweater dress too and it would be perfect for everyday office wear, especially with a thick belt across the waist




Now that wasn't so bad, was it? With a little bit of sleuthing for the best in winter fashion, you'll be wishing it was winter all year round!

Post written by Bria Berger

Style

For most of my adult life, I've been a fashion mute. In the past year, I've become aware of my complete lack of fashion. I've stopped dressing like a Jerry Seinfield wannabe. Yes, the 90's are over.

So what did I do. First, I suscribed to GQ - an innovative, although somwhat gay publication. Then I purchased some nice suits. It was a very affirming process.

The purpose of this is to document my personal journey. Also, as I see fashionable persons in public, I'd like to add there photo's here. I invite your comments. Hopefully, this will be an interactive practice.