fashion for fashionista 2006

Updating your look. And contrary to what many may believe, it doesn't have to be an overwhelming undertaking. In fact, just a few small changes -- like buying a trendy new item or two, or pairing your old standbys in new ways -- can make a world of difference. Here, easy ways to update your look for 2006.

Try a New Trend

The new year is the perfect time to try a new look:
A ruffled blouse. The bohemian look of the summer and early fall gives way to a more refined look come the new year, and ruffles are a central element. An easy way to wear the look: On a blouse. Choose a ruffled blouse that's soft, not overpowering, and avoid too-big ruffles (which just add pounds). Use your new blouse to update a simple work suit; peeking out from behind a pinstriped or charcoal blazer and pants, a ruffled shirt adds a fresh touch.
A feminine dress. You've just survived the holiday season, which likely called for sexy party dresses. Come 2006, shift your focus to a more demure look. The trend in dresses is a higher waist, a more tailored (and not-so-revealing) top, and a flippy, flouncy skirt. In the spring, you'll wear the dress on its own. In the meantime, pair it with tights, peep-toe pumps, and a cardigan or shaped jacket.

Update Your Current Pieces

Breathe new life into pieces you already own by wearing them in a new way.
Try tights. Your pumps and peep-toe shoes from fall looked professional and polished with sheer hose and a business suit. But for the weekend, you can update their looks by adding thick, nubby tights in colors that complement (or contrast!) that of your shoes. This lends a slightly bohemian, totally warm and cozy look to your outfit. What's more, wear your tights under a gauzy chiffon skirt for an ultra-modern winter look.
Add a fun hat. Hats are big news again, from wool newsboy caps to felt cloche toppers to big, fuzzy trapper hats. Punch up your demure winter coat with a funky hat -- it'll instantly give your old topper a new look.
Not into buying new clothes for the new year? Skip them, and instead, invest in a new bag! Look for a light-colored leather bag (think winter white, camel, or mustard yellow) in a hobo shape. Light-colored leather looks modern and fresh for winter -- much fresher than that classic (boring!) black leather tote many of us normally use.
Add some color. Spring's hot hues tend toward earth tones, like moss green, earthy brown, and rich rust. Add one piece in a warm shade, such as a scarf, cashmere sweater, or flannel skirt to get a jump on spring; it's easy to pair these colors with the neutral skirts, pants, and jackets already in your closet.

Phase Out the Old

Want to really update your appearance? Stash the following old trends in the back of your closet and replace them with these new looks.
Funky-print Wellie rain boots (try flat leather ones or solid-colored rain boots instead)
Diaphanous hippie blouses and long skirts (the feminine, tailored silhouette is back)
Long strands of pearls or wooden beads (go for glittering black beads in their place)
The relaxed blazer (try a belted, more feminine one for an updated look)

2006 Style Preview

Ladylike Looks, School Style, Neutrals

New York's Olympus Fashion Week has come and gone, and the news from the runways is promising. This past year's favorites like preppy bows and voluminous skirts remain popular, and clean lines and polished shapes make a powerful comeback.
Even if you aren't a full-fledged fashion plate, it's always nice to look forward and stay ahead of the game. That's why we scoured the runways for the most wearable trends. Here, six can't-miss looks and how to wear them on your body.

She's a Lady

Adult women around the world can breathe a collective sigh of relief as the hippy-dippy boho trends of this season give way to a more sophisticated look. Portrait collars, lace detailing, tailored skirts, blouses, and cardigans all return with a flirty flair. Take a cue from designers like Tracy Reese, Nanette Lepore (at right), and Donna Karan, and stick to basic shapes like A-line and pleated skirts with blousy tops. These will play off each other to keep you looking fashionable -- and to go the extra mile, accessorize with something other than your favorite strand of pearls.

Back to School

For women who aren't quite ready to commit to prim and proper full-time, look to designers like Marc Jacobs, who found inspiration in high school movies like Carrie. Sounds a little frightening, but his clothes are anything but. To wear the school-days look without looking like a schoolgirl (or a schoolmarm), remember that less is more. High waists, tiers, crossover dresses -- yes, think back to your old school uniform -- and block heels are definite trends for the season, but don't try to wear them all at once. Just a touch of school style will get your point across. Think playful but adult, and you'll be sure to get it right.

Put It in Neutral

Recover from an uber-bright season with spring's new neutrals. Graphic designs and mix-and-match fashion give way to creams, taupes, and whites. This is great news for you, because these shades look good on every skin tone, and will work with a lot of the pieces already in your closet. Looks like fashion just got a whole lot more convenient.

Empire Waists, New Denim, and Western Inspiration

The Empire Strikes Back

The empire waist, that is. The ever-present theme of sophistication hinges itself on this look this year, where the waist is cinched and defined right below the bustline. The empire waist is useful because it can work for women who want curves as well as those who want to conceal them, if worn properly. A deep V-neck and longer length (below the waist) will help create curves. And if you're looking to conceal a fuller figure, stick to a shape that remains close to the body (read: not too much pouf) even below the waist. Top-heavy women should avoid the empire waist altogether.

Unexpected Denim

It seems a little silly to call a classic staple like denim a trend. But that's exactly what it becomes this year. Fall's embellished jeans have opened the door for denim dresses and trousers. Indie actress and designer Tara Subkoff debuted just these looks at her Imitation of Christ show. Her denim jumpers and pantsuits may be a little over the top, but you can tone it down to adapt to your own wardrobe. To a avoid looking like a bad '80s flashback, stick to modern shapes, like A-line skirts and dresses, and avoid detail overkill on the denim.

Wild Wild West

Wedding dress phenom turned ready-to-wear dynamo Vera Wang showed a western-inspired collection that's sure to make you crave a prairie skirt this spring. In addition to tiered skirts, key pieces that make this trend work are ruffled shirts, brocade shifts, and crinkled fabrics. But put your cowboy boots away because the new western skirts will look best with flats and sandals.