HotmailEvening out? How to look spiffy in a jiffy
Don’t have time to go home and change before a Big Night? Judy Gordon tells how to make the transition into evening in style
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Judy Gordon The 'Today' show Style Editor • Profile • E-mail |
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Day-long fashions May 3: "Today" fashion contributor Judy Gordon talks with the "Today" show's Ann Curry and shows off fashions that can take you from work to a night out on the town. Today show |
These days, who has time to go home and get ready for a big evening out?
If you're like most of us, you're putting on makeup, dressy shoes and (heaven forbid!) pantyhose in the car or in a cab on your way to the evening’s event.
There is an art to day-into-evening dressing, though, that can save you time and make the transition just a bit easier. All it takes is a key piece or two and voila! You're on your way in style (and without embarrassing yourself).
It's all here in the latest edition of our weekly Trend Report.
Two in one
There is nothing better for day-into-nighters than something that does double duty. A prime example are bold necklaces — that is, if you choose one with a large, decorative clasp. During the day, the clasp, of course, is hidden at the back of the neck. But for evening, turn the necklace around and instant presto! You've got a dressy look, perfect for dinner or cocktail party.
Trend Tip:
Coral and turquoise are the beads of the season, however, there are plenty of options in costume jewelry. A classic choice would be strands of pearls or gold. We love Kenneth J. Lane's faux gems — classy and affordable!
Boho mom 
Love running around in your tee and khakis during the day? But what happens when you have all of two minutes to change from day to evening? Go Boho! An easy way to do it is with one of the latest looks — a long silk skirt with mirrors. (Yes, little mirrors.) Make it even easier by choosing a skirt with a sewn-in metallic belt, then play up the metallics with silver or gold toe ring sandals. Throw in some ethnic-inspired earrings and you’re set!
Trend Tip:
Want to look ultra-trendy? Wear two tees in different, but coordinated colors and choose lightweight fabrics such as those from James Perse or C&C. For the best buy in toe-ring sandals, go straight to Banana Republic ($48) or Bokhee.com ($69.99).
Sophisticated lady
White pants are a staple for sophisticated women (besides being a fashion must-have this season). How to dress them up for evening? With a tunic, of course. And for all the ladies out there who are 50-plus — you know who you are! — here’s a way to wear the trend without looking “silly”: A sophisticated, elegant tunic that is fitted and hip length in cotton, silk or linen. Forget flimsy fabrics, to-the-knee styles and over-embellishment.
Trend Tip:
White is not right for everyone. If you’re self-conscious about your weight, wear a neutral-colored pant in a dark color. And black is not the only option — brown is especially big this season.
In the bag
A great handbag, one that really makes a statement, is one of the most simple solutions to go from day to evening. Why? Because an interesting handbag is an accessory that gets noticed first. So when you’re making a mad dash out the door — or if you’re going to splurge on one great accessory — choose a bag that combines textures, features a bold pattern or is in a metallic or bright color. Or choose a combination of two or more of these trends!
Trend Tip:
Big isn’t necessarily better. Statement-making bags include a solid-colored clutch with a beautiful clasp, a bag with a gold shoulder strap or details such as colored stones or rhinestones.
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Intermix Mystique sandals — as worn by the Olsens. |
Want a really simple way to go from day to night? Do what celebrities do! When they don’t have time to sit down with a stylist, the stars know that embellished accessories make the transition a cinch. From beaded thong sandals to studded clutch bags, brightly colored accessories are the perfect evening accents. Be velvet-rope ready and right up to date in the season’s hottest colors — green, purple, orange, yellow, turquoise or white. (By the way, the Mystique sandals pictured here are a favorite of the Olsen twins.)
Trend Tip:
Embellished sandals are not just for twentysomethings. For a more sophisticated look, pair them with a neutral-colored pant or a monochromatic outfit. Hipsters can wear them with their favorite “uniform” — tight jeans and a tank.
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Judy Gordon is a New York-based style consultant and the “Today” show’s style editor. She has been covering the fashion and beauty beat for the past decade. To learn more about Gordon, you can visit her Web site, TheTrendReport.com, which highlights style trends in America and across the world.
firstVIEW is the primary supplier of photos to Fashion Friday. Go to www.firstVIEW.com for the latest pictures from top fashion shows around the world, including New York, Los Angeles, London, Paris, Milan, Brazil, New Zealand, South Korea and more.
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