PinkBlitz Magazine December 2013 | Page 18

HI S FA Sexy in Flannel N O By: Rachel Richard Flannel is the new black. Or so say the runway collections for the Fall 2013 season. From Saint Laurent to Stella McCartney, this fashionable comeback has shown us how comfort can also be stylish and, I dare say, sexy. Fashion trends seen on the runway often seem too outlandish and fashion-forward for the average woman to “pull off”. While they can seem intimidating at times, this season’s plaid trend is probably already present in your wardrobe. While flannel comes in different varieties and patterns, plaid is often the motif of choice because it is both effortlessly sexy and feminine. The fact it’s also warm and comfortable is definitely a bonus. I don’t know about you, but I feel a lot sexier when my teeth aren’t chattering. Unlike lace or satin, flannel isn’t considered a very alluring fabric. This explains why you don’t see many flannel-clad mannequins in lingerie store window displays. Its popular use notwithstanding, flannel can still be sexy depending on its user and the manner by which it’s worn. It’s what you make of it that will determine if it’s sexy or not. A fair warning before we get started on the fashion tips: try not to look like your run-of-the mill lumberjack, or Ron Swanson. Unless that’s the look that you’re going for. No judgment. There are many ways to rock flannel by choosing select plaid pieces. As an alternative to the classic flannel shirt, you can substitute it with a plaid blazer worn with a pair of skinny jeans and chunky heel booties. A plaid 18 skirt can seem especially festive this time of the year, but be wary of this trend unless you want to wander into Britney Spears circa 1998 territory. Alternatively, try a shirtdress paired with a thin belt, some leggings and topped off with red lips. For a more rocker chic look, try pairing a flannel plaid shirt with your favorite denim, a pair of boots and to class it up, a leather jacket. To maximize its warmth, couple it with an equally warm knit sweater and some heeled leather boots. Try wearing plaid with neutrals so as to not excessively contrast the different pieces. You can try dressing up flannel by finding new ways to style much-loved pieces in your closet. Incorporate trendy accessories such as a hat and a scarf, or accent pieces like platform heels and red lipstick to make the look more feminine. To be on the safe side, stay away from overalls unless you’re planning to spend some time in a wheat field. If you ?e???????????????????????????????????????????)????????????????????????????????????????)???????????????????%?????e???????????????????????)???????????????????????????????????????????????)?????????????????????????????????????????????)????????????????????????????????????????????)??????????????????????????????????????????????)????????????????????????)I?????????????????????e???????????????e???)????????????????????????????((0