In Fashion by Sharon Mosley

It's that time of year when our thoughts turn to the things and people that we appreciate. And that also goes for the clothes we wear. No, in the big scheme of things, the latest fashion trends don't really mean all that much -- but life is too short to not love ourselves enough to be the very best we can be and to look our best, too.

Here are some current fashion inspirations that I am thankful for this holiday season:
   
-- Guest designers at mass retailers. This is one trend that I think we all get to enjoy. Whether or not you're someone who lays down the big bucks for a pair of Jimmy Choo shoes or a Carlos Falchi handbag, there are few of us that can resist getting a designer look at H&M or Target prices. No, these may not be "investment" pieces that we will wear for years, but who doesn't like getting a pair of Choo's skyscraper heels for around $100?
  
 -- The return of vintage. I'll admit that I'm a sucker when it comes to rummaging around in bins of antique jewelry. I've found too many wonderful treasures to give up this weekend pastime of searching for one-of-a-kind items to add some unique flair to my wardrobe. Over the years, I've amassed a great collection of jet-black jewelry, Bakelite bracelets, '50s clutches and some fun fur wraps. I'm glad to see more vintage stores popping up everywhere.
   
-- Fashion Internet websites. While I have to have my "shopping the stores" fix on a regular basis (there's really no substitution for the thrill of caressing a cashmere sweater before you buy it), I still get great pleasure in lighting up the computer screen at 2 in the morning -- when I can't sleep -- to see the latest fashion updates at Vogue's style.com. This week's tip: Ditch the little black dress and go for a colorful cocktail dress.
   
I also like to scan zappos.com for a pair of animal print mules (Yes, I'm still looking!), or order the newest fashion book from amazon.com. (Rachel Zoe's "Style A to Zoe" is a great read.)
  
 -- Denim for day and night. Jeans ruled when I was growing up in the '70s, so, even though I sure don't look the same in them today, I still like the fact that denim is even more popular today … and you can dress jeans up or down depending on the occasion. Black trousers used to be my "go-to" basic bottoms, but now I feel like I have a lot more choices with denim in a variety of colors, finishes and silhouettes.
   
-- Stretch fabrics. No more stiff stuff for me! Comfort is key when it comes to what I wear, and yes, even my jeans have a little touch of stretch. I also love to wear my "no-wrinkle" jersey separates when traveling. And I could not live without my dozen or so stretch T-shirts and camisoles that layer under everything.
   
-- More fashion appreciation: Oprah for alerting all of us that we might be wearing the wrong bra and need to get fitted for the right size! Pashmina scarves in all colors at the airport kiosks! Spray tans! Cashmere socks! Opaque tights! Sample sales! Outlet malls! Organic cosmetics! Hybrid sneakers! Oversized handbags! Luggage with wheels!  L'Oreal's Elnett hairspray! Flip-flops lined in fleece! Actually anything in fleece, especially pajamas!
   
Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

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