Early handbags ware more functional rather than being a fashion statement. They were typically small circular cut pieces of material that normally had a leather strap. The leather strap was sewn around the circumference of the handbag to maintain its’ strength and security. Ancient pouches were used by men to hold coins and other valuables. Frequently men tied this pouch near a sword on their safekeeping and added protection. These can be seen in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. Pouches were more … » Read More

Fashion is having a masculine moment. Menswear-inspired pieces, sent down several fall runways, are heading into stores with looks that lend a feminine twist to traditionally male vests, trousers, blazers and accessories. “The menswear trend gives an empowering edge to women,” celebrity stylist Joey Tierney tells. “There’s something sexy about a women in a well-tailored suit. The look is strong, yet still feminine, with clean and simple lines.”

Wearing white after Labor Day these days is as acceptable as wearing black to a wedding or skipping pantyhose at the office. It’s an old school fashion rule, that’s not only been broken, but practically rewritten. “Not only can you wear white after Labor Day, you should wear white all year long, especially if you live in a seasonless climate,” Charla Krupp, fashion expert and author of “How to Never Look Fat Again,” tells StyleList. “White can be stunning in … » Read More

This time of year can be tricky. Technically, it’s still summer, and the weather continues to be hot. But our heads — and all the giant September magazine fashion issues weighing down our bags — have us thinking fall. Add in the cooler nights that are starting to follow the warm daytime temps, the back-to-school season, and pre-season football, and we’re caught up in a full-on web of clothing confusion. Marshalls and T.J.Maxx style expert Sonya Cosentini says there are … » Read More

High-tech science and nature are meeting head-on in the beauty world. But instead of clashing, brands have begun to embrace the two seemingly very different ingredient ethos in order to create products that work better and are better for you, a hybrid of technologies and ideologies that the beauty industry is calling the “Nu Natural.” Today’s Nu Natural beauty delivers the kind of results consumers have come to expect from their favorite must-haves, but without the controversial fillers of yesterday … » Read More

As temperatures rise in the summer, a woman’s inhibitions seem to fall when it comes to dressing for the office. Arms and legs go bare. Flip-flops shod feet. Every day is Casual Friday. “Warm weather is no excuse to completely dispense with your professional image,” says Judie Schwartz, of Style Matters, a Denver-based duo that presents professional image seminars and corporate dress workshops. “After all, most offices are climate controlled. Your wardrobe should be controlled, too.”