The time is now… the moment is here. I am so very excited about some of the new fashions that are emerging. They remind me so much of the styles in Miami. Classic, sophisticated, with a slight edge and always a sexiness. I am constantly reminded that many people get so comfortable in a style that they stop trying new trends. I, for one have never understood this. I love to allow my own personal style to grow and evolve. I have, on more than one occasion, looked through my closet and had a “what was I thinking” moment. We all have. Even after I have come across that shirt that I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing any more, I still do not throw it out. As my own personal style has evolved I have always had a hard time letting go of some of my “last season favorites”. Case in point… My Armani jeans. I have only worn them one time, and didn’t really like them on me then; yet at this very moment they are hanging in my closet next to my new favorite Oscar de la Renta navy pin stripe dress pants. The fact is that those jeans, the very ones that I have never like on me, look far better on the hanger.

As sad as it makes me to admit, I liked the label more than the jeans. There I said it! I am a label addict. And you know what I do not feel bad for it. I like nice clothes. I like the way the Italian linen feels on my skin and how the cut of my couture Versace blazer hugs my shoulders. When you really think about it, your outfit can make or break your whole day. Your choice in attire can empower you to take charge of your day. Walk with a bit more purpose and hold your head at the perfect “I know who I am” angle. Now I have over the years met people that feel that is shallow to have the idea that “the clothes make the man”. The fact is they are right, that’s why I say… “the LOOK makes the man”! Odds are that no one will ever know who made your suit, but they will know if they made it well and how it fits.

Example…. About 9 years ago I was in Las Vegas visiting a friend. I was there on a shoe string budget seeing as how I worked for a certain theme park in Florida that is run by a friendly rodent and didn’t have a lot of money to spend. I wanted so badly to go to this one nightclub in Caesar’s Palace but didn’t want to pay the high cover charge. One night I was very bored and got dressed in my best jeans that fit me perfect, a solid black button up long sleeve shirt, and a black Blazer that hung from my shoulders as though it was made just for me. After adding the black Kenneth Cole boots (the most expensive thing in my closet at that time) I made my way to the strip. Of course I walked past the club that I wanted to go to thinking that perhaps I could live vicariously through the people waiting in line. As I walked past I got closer to see in through the door, the bouncer that was guarding the rope unlatches the red velvet barricade and says “right this way sir.” I couldn’t believe it! I kind of looked around to be certain he was talking to me. He was! I partied for free that night. All because of the look that I was wearing.

My advice to everyone is to take an hour on a Sunday afternoon and thumb through the newest issue of your favorite fashion mag. If you see something that peaks your interest tear the page out. Next time you go shopping, take it with you! Even if you cant find the exact brands you can always “copy cat” the look with off brands. Remember, you don’t have to have a million to look like one! This will help keep your style in check and evolving, and in the end keep you looking and feeling your best!

Happy Shopping!

CM