The dictionary defines the word “casual” as: Nonchalant. Not
serious, or thorough, superficial and informal. Not serious,
nonchalant? Casual wear is anything but “casual” these days. When
applied to fashion this word has a lot of versatility and control
nowadays. Of course, you don’t want to get carried away with it. I
mean your appearance counts for everything. No one wants to be
thought of as superficial. Who does not want to be taken seriously?
This is especially true on the job. Subtlety is the key. You don’t
want to “over whelm” your look when you pull your outfits
together with something casual. Even a trip to the grocery store can
reflect the wrong image. When people walk up to you and want to give
you spare change, you have over done it.
Where to start?
Casual tops, shirts, tees are an excellent place. Who could forget
the look Sharon Stone pulled together at the Academy Awards in 1996.
She paired a black Gap t-shirt with a black Valentino skirt. She
pulled it off again in 2009 wearing a crisp white Gap shirt with a
couture skirt. Sleek, comfortable, subtle.
Women’s casual tops have
come a long way. Heavy woven fabrics for tops paired with sportswear
are slowly being replaced with fabrics that are soft and drape
beautifully, and are very figure conscious. Easy to care for, easy to
pack, and look great for just about any occasion. The colors are
bright, bold with wonderful patterns, and of course there is the old
stand-by, T-tops (without the slogans), the basic white shirt,
camisoles, and tanks with pretty lace edgings that can be worn under
career suits or paired with jeans.
The point is you want to
look appropriate for the occasion but still feel comfortable, and
look stylish. What was once forbidden is now acceptable due to the
ingenuity of designers, retailers and the voice of the public.
Fashion retailers worldwide have something to offer everyone. No
matter what your shape, size, taste. Stores that were once “size
specific” are “size friendly”.
