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NLT Articles and Photos

16 December 2009
Keep Warm in the Desert Nights
by David Tellez dmtellez@gmail.com
Although it never drops to ‘below freezing,’ Tucson does encounter low dropping temperatures that make even the visiting snowbirds say, “brrr!” That’s when you know it’s jacket season.

Jackets and coats have been a part of fashion history since the beginning time, when early civilizations used large animal furs to either keep heat in or keep dust and sand out. The word for cloak comes from the Latin word “cloca” which means cape and even though most coats and cloaks were used for function rather than fashion, today you can have the best of both worlds.

Since Tucson is known for having over nine months of summer, most Tucsonites don’t know how to shop for the perfect jacket or coat. Which is a shame, since during this season, your jacket or coat may be the only piece of clothing people see you in. And if you’re planning on making a great impression on your boss at the annual holiday party or that mysterious shopper at the mall, why not choose a garment that keeps your warm and irrestable?

LEATHER JACKET: Slick, smooth, and undeniably snappy, the leather jacket is known for its association with aviators, bikers and the occasional Village Person. It achieved iconic status in 1953 when a sexy leather bomber-clad Marlon Brando starred in The Wild One and has since then been a symbol for a rough and rebellious youth culture. A leather jacket can dress up or dress down the simplest and most elaborate of outfits. Try a distressed leather jacket with a pair of dark jeans for a classic James Dean look or a fitted motorcycle jacket for everyday wear. And for animal lovers, modern technology has allowed designers to make animal-friendly pleather look almost like the real thing. Either way, you won’t be able to help yourself from looking sexy this season.

MILITARY JACKET: Also known as the Michael Jackson Jacket, the military jacket is definitely this season’s most sought-out, must-have item. With many buttons and embellishments, this jacket is sure to be a fleeting style that won’t be around for too long, but then again, fashion is always fleeting. Style, however, is always forever. Choose a jacket with military style adornments and detailings, like buttoned epaulets, double breasted pockets or embroidered patches to keep your style impossibly fresh. Peacoats are a great example.

PEACOAT: Since the 1700s, the peacoat has been an essential part of European military wear, that has helped keep many a sailor warm. It was introduced to the U.S. military in the early 20th century and has since stood the test of time, always being reinvented and rediscovered by a new subculture of fashion-conscious people. With its classic simplicity of broad shoulders, tapered waist and lapels, the peacoat can make any body type flattering. For a modern look, try a short-waisted peacoat with a high collar.

HOODIES: The history of the hoodie can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when monks wore hooded robes as a reminder of the vow they took to live an uncomplicated, simple life. And just like a monk’s vow, the hoodie is an uncomplicated, simple piece of garment that has a life of it’s own. It was originally designed in the 1930’s by little known clothing company Champion for frozen warehouse workers in New York. In recent years, the hoodie has been the subject of criticism in the UK for being associated with Black hip hop culture and a way for shoplifters to conceal their identities. But even with a social stigma, the hoodie can be a great way to stay both stylish and warm. For a clean, cut look, try incorporating a thin hoodie to your wardrobe. It’s easy to layer and won’t add unnecessary bulk.

VARSITY JACKET: Remember the good ol’ high school days, when social status was everything and the best way to let everyone know you had officially arrived was by sporting the classic varsity jacket? Thankfully, those hellish adolescent years are gone, but the varsity jacket is back for everyone to enjoy. Even those that weren’t athletically blessed during high school. With a modern twist, the varsity jacket gives a very grown-up look with tons of schoolboy charm. Look for dark, muted colors to help bring out your outfit and soon, you’ll be the B.M.O.C.

Whatever jacket or coat you decide to wear this holiday season, remember to wear it with confidence and a smile, and you’ll be rockin’ around that Christmas tree!
Posted by nlt_cfmbb_admin at 7:48 PM | Link | 0 comments
18 March 2009
Top Fashion Trends Tucson Night Owls Need To Know About
Fashion
   

    Fashion makes a huge impact on the impression we give. Whether or not a person is wearing an ensemble that is in style says a lot about that individual. Club goers know how important it is to dress in the latest trends when they hit the hotspots in Tucson. Stay on top of the trends for this Spring and be sure to stand out from the crowd.

Women’s Top Fashion Trends

    Busy is the word to describe many of the patterns seen in the Spring 2009 clothing trends. Geometric shapes, floral prints and embellishments are the focus of tops, pants, dresses and skirts. In fact there is even carry over into accessories like purses. Flash from metallic fabrics and the femininity of ruffles are also favored by many of the top designers. Some of the things you will find in every well dressed woman’s going out wardrobe are chic shorts, full mini-skits, goddess-inspired lines and boyfriend blazers.

    For a hot look when you are out on the town in Tucson, opt for a silk, satin or other very lightweight fabric in a solid summer color, like beige, aqua or chartreuse. Sleeveless tops and dresses that drape the body, clinging lovingly to your curves create the perfect look when dressing up this Spring or even Summer because we all know in Tucson Spring and Summer feel like one season. Soft pants are also in right now but are not the ideal look for out on the town.

    Safari prints are also a hot look for anyone looking to prowl. Trendy textured clothes create visual interest. Clothing and accessories this season are also designed to show off a woman’s hourglass figure, while downplaying any figure flaws for the most provocative silhouette possible. Sheer or partly sheer items also add interest to an ensemble, providing you can pull it off. Remember that such items are only for evening wear. Be sure to add some bling with embellished accessories.

Men’s Top Fashion Trends

    Spring 2009 brings fun colors for the guy looking to be on the cutting edge. In fact bright colors like pink, orange, yellow, and aqua are the in colors for shirts this Spring. Meant to put some cheeriness back into a gloomy economic time, those who are confident enough to wear this trend will be easy to pick out, even in a darkened club. Pair these vibrant shirts with light colored pants in a lightweight fabric. The hottest look of the season for men’s pants is skinny pants. Black and white makes for a trendy color combination. A little shine in the fabric screams style.

     Apart from the exciting colors that are hip this season, relaxed casual looks like knit cardigans are also hot. While they are not the best look for clubbing, they are a great option for a date or an outing with friends. Looking laid back and casual is definitely in this season.

    When updating your wardrobe for Spring 2009, be sure to include signature items from this season’s hottest looks. That way your fashion sense will be sure to shine. The latest looks ensure that you are more than a face in the crowd.
Posted by nlt_cfmbb_admin at 7:00 PM | Link | 0 comments