By Mathilda Hatfield Hulett
It may seem odd to think of fashion as moving forward when shop windows, retail websites and magazines continue tofeature “retro” styles and “vintage” designs. Luckily, for those who wore bell-bottoms, leisure suits and bohemian dresses the first time around, today’s trends are staying a step ahead of you.
Sharing a fresh perspective on today’s fashion are Larry Rogers of EM and Marty Lefler of Lefler’s, both in Downtown Conway.
By Mathilda Hatfield Hulett
It may seem odd to think of fashion as moving forward when shop windows, retail websites and magazines continue tofeature “retro” styles and “vintage” designs. Luckily, for those who wore bell-bottoms, leisure suits and bohemian dresses the first time around, today’s trends are staying a step ahead of you.
Sharing a fresh perspective on today’s fashion are Larry Rogers of EM and Marty Lefler of Lefler’s, both in Downtown Conway.
Larry has both hands on the pulse of fashion as well as the style preferences of his customers in the 501 area code. When it comes to denim jeans, designers seek his input and customers request his assistance for the perfect fit, color and style.
Marty co-owns, manages and buys women’s fashions for five Lefler’s fashion boutiques. His customers run the gamut in age, lifestyle and fashion needs.
These two forward-thinking business owners know a thing or two about fashion.
Rather than start your wardrobe from scratch at the change of each season, Marty suggests springing for a new piece or an accessory in a vivid color. “Colors of yellow and orange are really popular but some people might find them hard to wear near the face so we feature those with moderate-priced handbags and jewelry,” he said.
“Shoppers then can choose blues, greens, pinks and reds for tops and jackets. Either way, everyone is responding to the beautiful bright colors this spring.”
Men’s fashions are sporting bright colors, too. Larry recommends going for lime green, orange, coral and lemon yellow. To carry you through early summer, look for these colors in linen shirts or jackets.
Since leisure suits are not making a comeback, yet; Larry recommends that men update their current wardrobe with wider-legged jeans or khakis. “Men in every age group, from 18 to 65, look good in pants with a 20-inch flare at the bottom of the leg.” Of course, he proposes the look is best in denim jeans. “You will see some type of denim in every occasion these days. Jeans are the new work khaki,” he said.
There are certain styles and even clothing brands that are making a comeback this spring. For women, Marty recommends something with a safari look, or a piece with a tribal influence. He cautions, “It doesn’t need to be a head-to-toe look, it is easy to pick up touches in something like a safari-style jacket, an ethnic print, or costume jewelry.”
Also making a comeback this season and influencing both men and women’s fashions is the French clothing label Lacoste.
The crocodile logo, famous on the tennis courts in the 1960s and 70s is back. This time it has added an haute-couture line: Lacoste Silver Label, made in France with better fabrics and high quality construction. Look for the crocodile on Lacoste shoes, too.
Remember, a complete closet overhaul is not necessary to transition your wardrobe from season to season or even year to year. Subtle changes can make a big impact.
Some details Marty suggests to consider when updating your style: feminine touches such as ruffles, eyelets and flounces; also sleeve treatments on jackets and tops such as kimono, puff and bell sleeves.
For men, Larry recommends updating your look with new shoes, such as Hush Puppies or K-Swiss madras slip-ons. Or, look for shirts with an asymmetrical design. (And, just so you know, it’s “un-tucked.”) Larry says, “Shirt tails or no tails, wear the shirt out. Don’t tuck it in with your pants pulled up to the arm-pits; you’re not wearing fishing waders.” See, stepping forward in fashion is all about subtle changes.
