Down With In and Out

Down With In and Out

And I’m not just talking about Heidi Klum’s annoying closing phrase before someone gets the boot on Project Runway.

Do not, I repeat, do not listen to what magazines say about certain clothing items being in and others out. It’s ridiculous. I opened one of my favorite fashion magazines last night and scoffed at what they said to “toss.” As if we are supposed to walk over to our closets and remove the beloved items without a care in the world. Ha! So, I feel obligated to go against the norm – to tell you what I think should stay in your closet for another ten years.

1. Fruit prints – If you don’t own anything with fruit on them, go quickly and buy something with a fruit pattern. And I am not talking about yucky fluorescents reminiscent of what your grandmother would wear. Be practical, but see those unique prints as character for your wardrobe. They shouldn’t leave your closet for a decade.
2. White jeans – I know, ew, gross. They were in the eighties and now they’re back and they won’t go away – right? Wrong. White jeans are very chic, have made a strong comeback, and if you find a pair that fits well (not skintight), then I think you’ve got a keeper on your hands!
3. Cowboy boots– Why in the world would someone want to get rid of cowboy boots? They are a classic staple. They go with everything from jeans to skirts, and can look very sexy with sundresses as well. Besides, we are living in Tennessee. We are known for being country, why not flaunt it?
4. Graphic T’s– OK, yes, some do get a little disgusting and stupid, but some look worn and vintage. I have tons I wear with jeans out to a club with heels, and others I wear in the comfort of my home. Do whatever suits your style, but these should never be shooed out.
5. Prairie skirts– I thought these would be a ten-second trend, like many fashion critics, but I think you can turn them into something entirely personal to you. Anything so versatile should not be discarded. They don’t simply have to be worn with boots or T’s. Pump up the classiness – take some risks! Pair it with metallic pumps and a metallic halter, not matching, but funky. Oh, and add a cuff.
6. Stylish sneakers– If you add these to your wardrobe, not only will you have a break from heels, but you can add so much new personality to your wardrobe. I love shocking people with pumas and a classy black suit. Totally chic. Try it!
7. Cargo pants – Cargo pants will be back faster than you can say grenade. For men, not so much, for women, I think there’s something there. They are a masculine item that needs to contrast a feminine piece. Try it – I dare you!
8. Chandelier earrings – I hate to say this, but chandelier earrings look better on people with longer hair. Now wait. The reason is that people who have short hair have turned the focal point to their beautiful faces. Why in the world complicate things with such large earrings?
9. Big bags, little bags, what have you– It is hysterical to me how fashion critics flip flop. One season it is smaller bags. Then it’s so big you’d look like an idiot carrying it. Then it’s a meager smallish wallet. I say, take it all; keep it all, you will need THEM all.
10. Fishnets– I hate to admit it, but you can make these look classy. Wear a black shift dress with a pair of fishnets, and you will be amazed at how much positive feedback you get. You will be the one who dared to put them on, the one who defied the image. You will strut, you will smile, and YOU WILL LOOK FABULOUS!