Spring 2025 Pantone Colors

Spring 2025 Pantone Colors: What’s Trending & How to Wear Them! 🌸🎨

Fashion lovers, get ready! Spring 2025 is bringing fresh, vibrant hues that will make your wardrobe pop. 🌟 From bold, energizing shades to soft, sophisticated neutrals, this season’s Pantone colors are all about self-expression and effortless style.

Tonight at 6 p.m. MST, I’ll be kicking off our Spring/Summer 2025 Trend Series during our weekly Wednesday Wardrobing live video on Facebook and Instagram! 🎥✨ I’ll be breaking down the hottest color trends, showing you how to style them, and helping you prep your wardrobe for the season ahead. You won’t want to miss it!

📍 Watch Live:
👉 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FashionCrossroads
👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fashioncrossroadsinc

Can’t join us live? No worries! The replay will be uploaded to our YouTube channel, so you can catch up anytime:
📍 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@FashionCrossroads

Why Learning About Color Matters 🌈

At Fashion Crossroads, one of our core values is educating our customers so they can feel confident and stylish in every season. Understanding seasonal color trends helps you make smart shopping decisions and keeps your wardrobe fresh and fashion-forward.

As we step into Spring 2025, the fashion world is abuzz with vibrant and refreshing hues that promise to rejuvenate your wardrobe. I’m thrilled to announce the kickoff of our Spring Trends Series, where we’ll delve into these captivating colors and how to incorporate them into your style.

Spring 2025 Pantone Colors:

  1. Peach Fuzz: A nurturing pinkish-coral that exudes warmth and compassion.
  2. Crocus: A calming purple shade reminiscent of the early spring flower.
  3. Lime Cream: A creamy, subtle green that adds a fresh zest to any ensemble.
  4. Limpet Shell: A bright, clear blue that evokes the tranquility of seaside horizons.
  5. White Grape: A yellowish-green hue that’s both refreshing and invigorating.
  6. Kashmir: A deep, rich green that brings a touch of nature’s elegance.
  7. Misted Marigold: A warm yellow that radiates optimism and joy.

Seasonless Core Shades:

  1. Eclipse: A deep, dark blue that offers a sophisticated alternative to black.
  2. Rum Raisin: A refined dark brown that adds depth and richness.
  3. Blue Granite: A versatile neutral with subtle blue undertones.

Having just returned from market in Las Vegas, I also saw a lot of the Pantone color of the year too!

At Fashion Crossroads, one of our core values is educating our customers to empower you as your best fashionista. By understanding and embracing these color trends, you can make informed choices that reflect your personal style and the season’s spirit.

Tune in tonight at 6 p.m. on Facebook and Instagram to get an in-depth look at these colors and styling tips. Missed the live session? Catch the replay on our YouTube channel. Embrace the new season with confidence and style. We can’t wait to share these insights with you!

So, grab your favorite beverage, tune in tonight at 6 p.m., and let’s talk all things color! 🎨💖 What shades are you excited to wear this spring? Drop a comment below! ⬇️

#SpringTrends #Pantone2025 #WardrobeRefresh #WednesdayWardrobing #FashionEducation

Key Accessory Trends For Fall 2024

Key Accessory Trends for Fall 2024

Fall is here, and it’s time to revamp your wardrobe with the latest accessories to complement the season’s hottest styles. Accessories are the perfect way to elevate your look, add personality, and stay on-trend without breaking the bank. In our final live video of the Wednesday Wardrobing Series: Fall Trends, I’ll be covering everything you need to know about the key accessory trends for women this fall. This series has already covered color, style, and fabric trends, and you can catch those previous videos in our Fall Trends Playlist on YouTube.

Here are the must-have accessories for Fall 2024 and how you can style them to create looks that stand out:

Key Accessory Trends for Fall 2024:

  • Statement Belts
    Belts are making a huge comeback this fall. Whether it’s wide or skinny, buckled or tied, a statement belt can take an outfit from basic to bold. Think about cinching your waist over a chunky sweater or pairing a wide belt with a flowy dress to create shape and highlight your figure. Statement belts can also be worn over coats or blazers for a polished, tailored look.
  • Oversized Scarves
    Scarves have always been a fall staple, but this season, oversized scarves are where it’s at. Whether you choose chunky knits or soft cashmere, oversized scarves add an extra layer of warmth and style. Wrap them around your neck for a cozy effect or drape them loosely for a casual, relaxed vibe. Pair with a long coat or a leather jacket for the ultimate fall look.
  • Structured Handbags
    This season is all about structured bags, especially those in rich, earthy tones like caramel, chocolate, and olive green. These bags add sophistication to any outfit and provide that perfect balance between fashion and function. For work, opt for a medium-sized tote or satchel, and for weekend errands, a sleek crossbody or a mini bag will do the trick.
  • Chunky Jewelry
    Bold, chunky necklaces, bracelets, and earrings are a major trend for Fall 2024. Gold and silver pieces with intricate designs and oversized gemstones are taking center stage. You can pair these accessories with a turtleneck sweater or a simple blouse to let the jewelry be the star. Chunky jewelry is also a great way to make an otherwise simple outfit feel special.
  • Shearling and Faux Fur Accents
    Shearling and faux fur details are being incorporated into accessories like handbags, hats, and even boots this fall. These accents give off a cozy and luxurious vibe, perfect for adding warmth to your wardrobe. Try a shearling-lined tote or boots with fur trim for an on-trend, winter-ready look.
  • Retro Sunglasses
    The ‘70s are back in full force, and nowhere is that more evident than in the return of retro sunglasses. Think oversized frames, round lenses, and bold colors. These sunglasses add a vintage twist to your fall wardrobe and pair beautifully with flared jeans, oversized sweaters, or wool coats.
  • Knee-High Boots
    Knee-high boots are a quintessential fall footwear trend, and they’re more versatile than ever. Whether you opt for classic leather, suede, or a more modern look with embellishments, knee-high boots can be worn with everything from skirts and dresses to skinny jeans and leggings. For a chic, timeless outfit, pair brown leather knee-high boots with a plaid shacket and skinny jeans.
  • Gloves
    Leather gloves with decorative details, like buttons or stitching, are trending this fall. They’re not just practical for chilly weather—they also add a sophisticated touch to your overall outfit. Choose gloves in bold colors like burgundy, navy, or even mustard yellow to add a pop of color to neutral outfits.
  • Hair Accessories
    From oversized scrunchies to embellished hairpins and headbands, hair accessories are having a moment this season. They’re perfect for adding a fun, youthful element to your outfit while keeping your hair stylishly in place. Pair a bejeweled headband with a turtleneck dress for an elegant look or throw on a cozy scrunchie with your favorite casual outfit.

How to Style These Trends

When styling accessories this fall, the key is balance. If you’re wearing bold or statement accessories, let them be the focal point by keeping the rest of your outfit neutral or minimal. For example, if you’re rocking an oversized scarf and chunky jewelry, consider pairing them with a simple knit sweater and jeans to let your accessories take the spotlight.

On the flip side, if your outfit is more vibrant or complex—like a patterned blouse or textured sweater—choose understated accessories like structured handbags or simple jewelry to avoid overloading the look.

Tune In to Tonight’s Wednesday Wardrobing Live Video

Tonight, I’ll be discussing these accessory trends and showing you how to incorporate them into your wardrobe during my Wednesday Wardrobing Live Video at 6 p.m. MST on our Facebook and Instagram channels. You won’t want to miss seeing these trends in action!

This video is part of our Fall Trends Series, which has already covered color, style, and fabric trends for Fall 2024. If you missed those, don’t worry—you can watch them on our Fall Trends Playlist on YouTube. Be sure to tune in next week as we wrap up the series with even more insights into the season’s fashion must-haves!

Until then, happy accessorizing!

Fall 2024 Fabric Trends

Fall 2024 Fabric Trends: What to Watch For and How to Style Them

As we dive into the cozy and stylish season of fall, fabrics play a huge role in shaping the trends for women’s fashion. This fall, texture and comfort are front and center, with designers opting for materials that not only look great but feel amazing too. Here’s a breakdown of the key fabric trends for Fall 2024 and some tips on how to style them. Be sure to watch my Wednesday Wardrobing Live Video tonight at 6 p.m. MST on our Facebook and Instagram pages for more styling inspiration. This month’s series has been all about the top fashion trends, and you can catch the past two weeks of videos on our YouTube channel here.

Popular Fabrics for Fall 2024

  • Corduroy
    • Why it’s popular: Corduroy is making a strong comeback this fall, offering both durability and warmth. Its ribbed texture adds depth to outfits and pairs perfectly with the season’s earthy tones.
    • How to style: Opt for wide-leg corduroy pants in a caramel or olive hue, paired with a fitted knit top or sweater. For a more casual look, throw on a corduroy blazer over your favorite tee.
  • Chunky Knits
    • Why it’s popular: Nothing says fall quite like chunky knits. This fabric trend is all about coziness and comfort without sacrificing style. Oversized sweaters and textured cardigans are key this season.
    • How to style: Wear an oversized chunky knit sweater with skinny jeans or tuck it into a high-waisted skirt for a balanced silhouette. Add boots and a long coat for the perfect fall ensemble.
  • Velvet
    • Why it’s popular: Velvet’s rich texture and luxurious feel make it a standout fabric for fall. This fabric is perfect for dressing up your look, whether for a holiday party or a date night.
    • How to style: Pair a velvet blazer with jeans for a chic casual look, or go for a velvet dress and statement jewelry for a more polished and glamorous vibe. Wear a top mixed media top that combines both velvet and satin for a trendy look.
  • Satin
    • Why it’s popular: Satin is soft and smooth, lending a feminine touch to fall fashion. It adds a little bit of shine to your wardrobe and works great for both casual and dressy outfits.
    • How to style: A satin blouse in jewel tones like deep maroon or emerald green can be tucked into tailored trousers for an office-ready look. Alternatively, wear a satin midi skirt with a chunky knit sweater for an on-trend juxtaposition of textures.
  • Faux Leather
    • Why it’s popular: Faux leather continues to be a favorite as it brings a sleek, edgy look while being animal-friendly. It’s a great way to add a bit of toughness to softer fall outfits.
    • How to style: A faux leather jacket over a flowy dress creates the perfect contrast for fall. You can also opt for faux leather leggings or skirts, paired with oversized knits or blouses for a chic yet relaxed style.
  • Plaid Flannel
    • Why it’s popular: Plaid is a classic fall fabric that never goes out of style. Flannel adds warmth and is a great way to channel those cozy autumn vibes.
    • How to style: Pair a plaid flannel shirt with jeans for a casual weekend look. Layer it over a turtleneck or under a puffer vest for an effortlessly stylish and layered outfit.
  • Wool Blends
    • Why it’s popular: Wool is known for its warmth, and blends that combine wool with softer fabrics provide comfort without the scratchiness. This fabric is a staple for coats, cardigans, and skirts.
    • How to style: A wool-blend coat in a neutral tone like camel or grey is a must-have for fall. Pair it with anything from jeans to dresses for a timeless look.
  • Knit Jersey
    • Why it’s popular: This soft, stretchy fabric is perfect for transitional pieces. It’s comfortable, lightweight, and easy to layer, making it a go-to fabric for casual wear.
    • How to style: Go for a knit jersey dress with ankle boots and a leather jacket for a chic, off-duty look. Alternatively, a knit jersey top paired with joggers or leggings creates an effortlessly cozy yet stylish outfit.
  • Tweed
    • Why it’s popular: Tweed is having a major moment this fall, with its textured, slightly vintage feel. It’s perfect for both casual and office looks, adding sophistication to any outfit.
    • How to style: Try a tweed blazer with wide-leg pants for a modern take on a classic fabric. Tweed skirts also pair beautifully with fitted tops or knits for a polished look. Tweed slacks make an excellent choice for winter because they are warm and cozy.
  • Fleece
    • Why it’s popular: Fleece is not just for outdoor wear anymore—it’s now being incorporated into stylish casual outfits. It’s ultra-soft and provides warmth for chilly days.
    • How to style: A fleece jacket or pullover paired with leggings and sneakers is perfect for running errands or casual weekend outings. For a more fashion-forward look, pair a cropped fleece top with high-waisted pants or a skirt. Long puffy vests are an alternative to fleece but have the same sporty vibe. Style them with leggings, a tee, and sneekers.

Tune In for More Fall 2024 Trends!

For more tips on how to style these fabrics and incorporate them into your fall wardrobe, don’t miss my Wednesday Wardrobing Live Video tonight at 6 p.m. MST on our Facebook and Instagram pages. I’ll be covering these fabric trends in detail and showing you how to style each one. Plus, I’ll be previewing some of our latest arrivals that perfectly embody these trends.

This month’s Wednesday Wardrobing series has been dedicated to covering the key fashion trends of Fall 2024. You can catch the previous two weeks of videos on our YouTube channel here and make sure you tune in next week as we dive into more fall trends, including colors, accessories, and styling tips!

Fall 2024 Women’s Style Trends

Fall 2024 Women’s Style Trends: A Guide to What’s In This Season

As the leaves begin to turn and the temperatures drop, it’s time to refresh your wardrobe with the latest trends for Fall 2024. This season is all about bold statements, cozy textures, and timeless pieces that can be mixed and matched for versatile looks. Whether you’re looking to update your wardrobe with key pieces or add some fun, trendy items, Fall 2024 has something for every fashionista. Tonight at 6 p.m. MST, I’ll be diving deep into these trends during my live Wednesday Wardrobing Video Series on Facebook and Instagram, so be sure to tune in for an exclusive trend report!

Key Style Trends for Fall 2024

  1. Wide Leg Pants
    Say goodbye to skinny jeans and leggings—wide leg pants are taking over this fall. From cropped to full-length styles, these pants offer comfort and style in one package. Whether you go for structured trousers or laid-back, flowy designs, wide-leg pants are the perfect base for a chic fall look. If you are petite, don’t fear, you can wear the wide leg trend too! Cropped styles work great for shorter women. We have some great dressy wide leg slacks in our Red Hot With Tribal Sportswear Collection.
  2. Retro Sweaters
    Nostalgia is in, and retro sweaters are making a comeback in a big way. Think chunky knits, bold geometric patterns, and color-blocked designs reminiscent of the ’70s and ’80s. These cozy, statement-making pieces are perfect for layering as the weather cools down. They also look great worn with collared blouses for the ultimate 80s throwback. We love this Charlie B Retro Sweater that has just arrived for fall.
  3. Cropped Jackets and Blazers
    Cropped jackets are a must-have for Fall 2024. From cropped denim jackets to sleek, tailored blazers, these pieces add structure and a polished touch to any outfit. Pair them with high-waisted pants or skirts for a balanced silhouette that feels modern and fresh. They also look great with wide leg pants and prevent you from looking too oversized.
  4. Plaid Patterns
    A perennial favorite for fall, plaid is everywhere this season. Whether it’s in oversized blazers, mini skirts, or button-down shirts, plaid patterns give off that effortlessly cool, slightly preppy vibe. This year’s plaid comes in bold colors like red, deep green, and navy. Pair plaid blouses over light weight sweatshirts for a fun, college prep look. You can also wear them oversized and open layered with a fun graphic tee.
  5. Earthy Neutrals
    Fall 2024 is embracing earthy, soothing neutrals like olive green, caramel, taupe, and terracotta. These warm hues are perfect for mixing and matching, and they add a grounding, nature-inspired vibe to your wardrobe. Earth tones offer a sophisticated, understated way to transition into fall. The unique trend for the season is to pair up these neutrals in unexpected ways like wearing terracotta and olive green together. Our new Out Of The Woods Collection is a great example of this trend.
  6. Ponchos and Capes
    Outerwear takes on a new form this fall with ponchos and capes dominating the fashion scene. These layering pieces add drama and flair to any outfit while keeping you warm and cozy. Look for oversized, flowy silhouettes with fringe details for a boho-chic touch. Our Tempo Paris Poncho Sweater is a great example of this trend.
  7. Textured Fabrics
    This season is all about touchable textures—think corduroy, velvet, and faux fur. These fabrics add depth and interest to even the simplest outfits, making them perfect for fall layering. Textured materials are great for both casual and dressy occasions, adding richness to your look. They are also a cozy fabric option in our Wyoming wind. Our new Charlie B Corduroy Pant is a yummy example of this trend
  8. Utility-Inspired Pieces
    Cargo pants, joggers with pocket details, and utility jackets are continuing their reign as a top trend for Fall 2024. These pieces are both functional and fashionable, providing plenty of comfort while still looking stylish. Look for details like zippers, buttons, and pockets to give your outfit an edgy, practical vibe.
  9. Blousy Tops
    Loose, flowy tops are in, offering an elegant and laid-back aesthetic. These tops pair beautifully with both structured pants and skirts, and they come in a range of fabrics from silk to cotton. For Fall 2024, blousy tops with subtle prints and embroidery are key for a soft, romantic look. Our Tribal Sportswear Long Sleeve Button Up Blouse is a great example of this trend.
  10. Layering Essentials
    Fall is all about layering, and Fall 2024 has no shortage of great layering pieces. Lightweight turtlenecks, fitted cardigans, and sleeveless mock-neck sweaters are perfect for building a stylish, layered outfit. Mix textures and patterns for a look that’s both comfortable and fashion-forward.

Join Our Live Trend Report Tonight

Curious to see how these trends look in real life? Tune in tonight at 6 p.m. MST for my Wednesday Wardrobing Live Video Series on Facebook and Instagram. I’ll be showcasing these fall trends, giving styling tips, and offering insights into how you can incorporate them into your wardrobe. Whether you’re shopping for key pieces or just want to stay updated on the latest fashion, this live trend report will provide everything you need to know.

Stay Trendy All Month Long

This is just the beginning of our Fall 2024 trend coverage! Each week this month, I’ll be breaking down different aspects of the season’s top trends, including color, style, fabric, and accessories. Don’t miss a single episode—tune in every Wednesday evening for live insights, exclusive promos, and fashion-forward tips to help you stay on-trend this fall. Be sure to also check out our latest fall arrivals in store and online at http://www.fashioncrossroadsinc.com.

Mark your calendars and get ready to embrace the fall season in style!

Spring Into Style: 2024 Women’s Accessory Trends

As the flowers bloom and the temperatures rise, it’s time to refresh your wardrobe with the hottest accessory trends for spring 2024. From statement handbags to eye-catching jewelry, this season’s styles are all about making a bold statement while staying effortlessly chic. Let’s dive into the key trends dominating the world of women’s accessories this spring.

Handbag Trends: Making a Statement

When it comes to handbags this spring, it’s all about making a statement. Bold colors, oversized shapes, and unique textures are taking center stage, adding a touch of personality to any outfit. Here are some of the must-have handbag trends for 2024:

1. Oversized Totes: Say goodbye to tiny clutches and hello to oversized totes. Roomy enough to carry all your essentials, these statement-making bags are both stylish and practical.

2. Geometric Designs: From hexagonal shapes to circular silhouettes, geometric designs are ruling the handbag scene this spring. Look for bags with clean lines and unexpected angles to add a modern edge to your look.

3. Embellished Details: Elevate your handbag game with embellished details like sequins, beads, and embroidery. Whether it’s floral motifs or geometric patterns, these intricate designs add a touch of glamour to any ensemble.

4. Transparent Styles: Transparency is key this season, with see-through handbags making a major comeback. Opt for bags with clear panels or acrylic materials for a contemporary twist on a classic accessory.

Ready to update your handbag collection with the latest trends? Shop in-store at Fashion Crossroads located in downtown Casper, Wyoming at 228 East 2nd Street, or browse our selection online using the following link: Spring 2024 Handbag Trends.

Shoe Trends: Stepping into Style

Step into spring with confidence by rocking the latest shoe trends of 2024. From statement heels to comfy flats, this season’s footwear options are as diverse as they are stylish. Here are the top shoe trends to keep an eye on:

1. Sculptural Heels: Make a statement from head to toe with sculptural heels that defy convention. Whether it’s architectural shapes or bold colors, these avant-garde heels are sure to turn heads wherever you go.

2. Chunky Sneakers: Embrace comfort without sacrificing style with chunky sneakers. Perfect for pairing with everything from dresses to jeans, these retro-inspired kicks add a cool factor to any outfit.

3. Strappy Sandals: Say hello to warmer weather with strappy sandals that exude effortless elegance. Whether flat or heeled, these versatile shoes are a springtime staple that can take you from day to night with ease.

4. Animal Prints: Add a wild touch to your shoe collection with animal print designs. From leopard spots to snakeskin patterns, these fierce prints add a dose of personality to any ensemble.

Jewelry Trends: Shining Bright

No outfit is complete without the perfect accessories, and this spring, it’s all about making a statement with your jewelry choices. Whether you prefer delicate pieces or bold statement makers, there’s something for everyone in this season’s jewelry trends. Here are the top trends to try:

1. Chunky Chains: Channel your inner rockstar with chunky chain necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. These bold pieces add a touch of edge to any look and are perfect for layering.

2. Mismatched Earrings: Embrace asymmetry with mismatched earrings that add an unexpected twist to your ensemble. Mix and match different shapes, sizes, and styles for a playful yet polished vibe.

3. Pearl Accents: Elevate your jewelry game with timeless pearls updated for the modern woman. Whether it’s oversized pearl earrings or layered pearl necklaces, these classic accents add a touch of sophistication to any outfit.

4. Sustainable Materials: Embrace eco-friendly fashion with jewelry made from sustainable materials like recycled metals and ethically sourced gemstones. Not only do these pieces look good, but they also feel good knowing they’re better for the planet.

Looking for amazing sustainable jewelry options? Explore our exclusive collection from Tagua by Soraya Cedeno. Crafted from organic Tagua seeds, each piece is a unique blend of style and sustainability. Shop this eco-conscious line in-store at Fashion Crossroads, located at 228 East 2nd Street in downtown Casper, Wyoming, or browse our online collection using this link: Tagua Jewelry by Soraya Cedeno.

With these key accessory trends for spring 2024, you’ll be ready to step out in style and make a statement wherever you go. Whether you’re rocking oversized handbags, sculptural heels, or statement jewelry, remember to embrace your unique sense of style and have fun experimenting with new looks. Fashion Crossroads is celebrating 50 years in business in May of this year. As a second generation, women owned business, we specialize in professional women and in offering clothing for the office as well as for weekend adventures. We have cultivated our inventory with the best brands that offer something out of the ordinary. When how you look matters, shop Fashion Crossroads.

Spring 2024 Clothing Trends

My February Wednesday Wardrobing Series is focused on the latest style trends for the upcoming Spring/Summer 20245 season. Last week, I covered the key color trends, and this week I am focusing on the most important style and fabric trends.

  1. Mini Skirts: Skirts are getting shorter this year with the mini skirt trend. Whether you are dressing up with leather or sequins or keeping it casual with denim, make sure for professional settings that your skirt length is below your finger tips when your arms are hanging down.
  2. Floral Prints: 3-D flowers, especially rosettes rocked the runways for this season but so did floral prints in everything from tops and dresses to pants and skirts.
  3. Classic Button Up: Blouse lovers celebrate – blouses are still SO in! For summer, look for classic white, menswear blue, and linen and cotton styles.
  4. Bows and Ribbons: Get feminine with bow details this season! You’ll find bows on blouses, accessories, waists and more. You’ll also see ribbons being used as embellishments.
  5. Bermuda: Long shorts are back! Wear them paired with a suit jacket for a summer suit look and dress them up with heels and a blouse. Wear them casual for running around too!
  6. Luxury jumpsuits: Monochromatic jump suits or tops and bottoms paired together as a set are trendy this season. This look is expensive and minimalistic. Expect full pants and long sleeves.
  7. 90″s Inspired: From baggy mom jeans cinched with belts and paired with ribbed tops to short and long overalls, the 90’s grunge vibe is back.
  8. Modern Femininity: In addition to bows and ribbons, look for eyelet, lace, silks, and semi sheer fabrics.

In addition to these themes, you will also see short shorts, more low rises waists, and capris length pants.

If you’d like to see examples of these trends, tune into my live video tonight at 6 p.m. MST. You can watch on either on Facebook or Instagram. You can also catch last week’s video on YouTube.

Ankle: The New Hip Length

When I mention an ankle length pant to a tall woman, she usually responds with a pained look and a determined shake of the head indicated she’d rather die.  At only 5:2, I can only imagine what it would be like to fear short pants.  I’m on the other end

Ankle length pant from Lisette L. Pantalon.

Ankle length pant from Lisette L. Pantalon.

of the spectrum and at that wonderful height where petite is too short and average is too long.  That’s why I LOVE ankle pants. I can usually get an ankle pant to be just the right full length for me.  But, if I want to wear the hippest new length for the season, its off to the seamstress I go to get my pant hemmed to the perfect ankle pant length.  So you lucky tall ladies, this blog is here to encourage you to put aside your horrific memories of too short pants when you were a kid, and embrace a new trend this season.

So let’s talk about the right length.  The picture on the left shows the optimum length for an ankle pant.  You want that hemline to fall an inch above your ankle bone.  Any higher,and your pant becomes a cropped pant.  Any lower, and the look is all wrong. This style looks great with heels, as pictured or with shoe boots.  See my blog from last week for more information about these.  Notice that this style usually coincides with a slim legged 60’s inspired cigarette pant.  Wider legged ankle pants look better with tall boots, and are trickier to pull off.

Full length hemline

Full length hemline

Conversely, the picture on the right shows the optimal hemline for a full length pant.  Hopefully this will help you visualize the difference between the two hemlines. Notice that the full length pant falls about midway down the back of the shoe or at the bony part of your heel. This is the perfect length for a slim legged pant because the fabric won’t pool or “break” too much on the top of the foot, creating extra and unnecessary bulk.

I find that ankle pants work better on me if I wear some type of a heel, wedge or dressier shoe boot.  I think its important to keep your shoe sleek and not boxy. Too chunky of a shoe creates a “cankle” (when your calf goes right into your ankle) and ruins the style.  Taller ladies can get away with more shoe options like ballerina flats, for example.  They already have the leg length to make the look work perfectly for them.

Fall is the perfect time to wear this style as the temperature is dropping but there isn’t snow on the ground forcing us into boots and socks.  This style can be a great work look, as it is dressy and chic.

Don’t know where to buy an ankle pant?  Check out our Lisette L. ankle pant on our online store at Fashion Crossroads Inc. This is a great jet black, all stretch, pant that will fit slim through the legs just like the styles shown in this blog as well as tuck your tummy.  The fabric is dressy so it can take you from work to evening to travel.

Posting From Market- Women’s Wear in Nevada (WINN) Show

Today we shopped the WINN Show, short for Women’s Wear in Nevada, at the Rio Convention Center.  The WINN show is focused on speciality stores and has many of our best lines.  Today we saw Foxcroft, Tribal, Multiples, Alisha D, Belldini, Weavz, Keren Hart, and Lior.  It was a very full day, beginning at 9 a.m. and ending at 8:15 p.m.  We stopped for an hour lunch but otherwise were working lines the rest of the time.

Foxcroft had beautiful tencel blouses as well as their fabulous wrinkle free cotton blouses.  I wore my Foxcroft blouse yesterday.  It came out of my suit case wrinkle free and was still crisp and beautiful when I hung it back in the closet at the end of the day.  Ladies, if you want a great blouse, there is none better in the market!  The picture on the left shows an upcoming “blouse tunic” or “big shirt” from Foxcroft.  This is the next big tunic style.  It looks great with leggins, skinny or straight jeans.  You will also be seeing Blouse Tunics this summer so be sure to add at least one style to your summer wardrobe.

image

Early fall grouping from Foxcroft with blouses and sweaters.

Foxcroft Blouses

Sales Representative for Fox Croft modelling a blouse tunic that will be in Fashion Crossroads in September.

We also saw Tribal today.  We were so excited about the fall line.  It looks amazing.  Tribal hit a home run in balancing casual jean looks with dressy work looks for a very functional line with a ton of fashion and practical pieces.  The challenge will be deciding what not to buy!  You Tribal lovers will be so happy with what you see from the line both for spring and fall of 2015.  It is also worth pointing out that the company expanded their booth and were booked solid all day, with every seat filled with buyers.  That’s a good sign both for the line and for the market as a whole.

Tribal booth at the WINN Show in Las Vegas

Tribal booth at the WINN Show in Las Vegas

Based upon the number of buyers at both the Off Price Show and the Winn Show, I thnk it is fair to say that buyers are feeling good about the economy which means customers are shopping all across the country.  That’s good news for all of us!

Thinspo and Fitspo

So maybe I am totally out of it, but this is the first I have heard of ‘thinspo” and “fitspo” which to define the most simply are images and quotes that women post to encourage themselves to be thin and fit.  So, curious, I googled the words and came across whole websites devoted to the topic.  Many of the postings were phone pics taken by real women in seductive poses showing off their, admittedly, quite thin and often very fit bodies.  I learned from Glamour magazine that Pinterest, Tumblr, and Instagram have banned “scary pro-anorexia images known as thinspiration” (August, 97).  Not being much of a pinner and still new to Tumblr and Instagram, I was amazed at the seductive photos I saw on these websites.  I’m not sure if the motivation is to get attention, a date or to just show off their bodies, but many of the women were dangerously thin.  It used to be that we worried how women’s magazines gave an unrealistic body image to girls, all the while knowing that these bodies were air brushed to hide flaws.  But the pictures I saw were not airbrushed.  They were real, true hard bodies.

So we’re back to it again, aren’t we?  Where is the line between fit and anorexia?  What is the message these kinds of photos are sending to our kids?  Can the average woman really look like that without starving herself or spending two hours at the gym every day?  Is this the definition of modern beautiful?  I am 40 years old and all for fitness.  I work out three times a week and count my calories.  At 5″3, it takes a lot of effort to stay at 120 lbs or less.  I can’t imagine the kind of effort it would take me to look anywhere near as fit as many of these women looked.  I know its possible, but at what cost?  Here’s the deal – the definition of beautiful is a moving target and has been since the beginning of time.  Whether is was cor-setts designed to make women’s waists look impossibly small or Renaissance painters immortalizing the delightfully plump woman of ease, what we find beautiful is always changing.  And that’s okay.  But when the definition of beautiful inspires women to unhealthy places, something needs to change.