Wrapping up another year of Style Files,

by Rachel Pugh
Weekender General Manager
Times Leader Vice President of Marketing

Wrapping up another year of Style Files, it’s interesting to see what patterns may have formed while reviewing some of 2009’s fashionable featured choices. Straight lines, conservative designs and classic looks seemed to have been the trend for the year, along with some creative ways to either design your own jewelry or find ones made of natural items. Reminiscing of all the styles featured, some styles stand out from the rest, therefore making my top 10 Style Files picks of 2009.

Pin up style bathing suits

What can I say? I love Marilyn Monroe, and she had some fabulous bathing suits in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Anything to resemble one of her gorgeous pieces ranks high on my list and will remain one of my favorite Style Files picks of all time.

Utility Jacket

I love a rugged yet tailored look on a man. I know it sounds contradictory, but a man can look very put together while maintaining a very masculine style, and the utility jacket aces that attempt. With lots of pockets and buttons strategically placed, the utility jacket softens a military style while keeping the overall look rugged and manly.

Scuba Jacket

Designed to contour to the body, the scuba jacket is a must-have. Because it can create an entire outfit all by itself, this choice has powerful effects and should be a staple in everyone’s closet. Although a leather scuba might be a little pricey, it will hold its look forever, so it’s definitely worth the splurge.

Antique marcasite

My favorite of all jewelry, marcasite simply says Hollywood to me. Sure, they may not be diamonds, but the way marcasite is placed together to form unique pieces of jewelry has a more interesting look than a plain old diamond, and you don’t have to dip into your nest egg to purchase it. Couple that with being an antique, and you have a perfect feminine piece of unique jewelry that can often become quite the conversation piece.

Wool dresses

Classic beauty never goes out of style. Although a wool dress may be considered drab, the modern-day wool dress can result in a sexy look while staying conservative. Perfect with a pair of tights and/or a high pair of boots, the modern-day wool dress is a great little number to keep on hand for those cold days to work.

Maxi dress

The maxi dress was my favorite choice for summer. Comfortable to wear around my house yet stylish enough to wear out and about during hot summer days, the maxi dress is a girl’s dream come true. It simply feels a bit more feminine to wear a dress, yet sporting a maxi dress doesn’t mean you have to feel “done up.” It makes you look like you put in some effort when really you slipped into something as easily as slipping into a nightgown.

Lacoste sneakers

They’ve been around forever and have kept their classic design, yet Lacoste sneakers look like a brand-new modern pair of kicks. Coming to life through the sport of tennis, Lacoste sneakers are appropriate for young and old. Plus, buying them serves as a nod of the head to a classic designer.

Natural made jewelry

Coconuts aren’t just for eating and drinking. This tropical nut can make the perfect accessory as well. Whether you pick up a pair at a boutique or purchase them during your next trip to the islands, this organic look is a fresh alternative to your other costume jewelry.

Trollbeads

Trollbeads made the list due to their creative way of telling a story. A great activity for a mother and daughter, designing your own Trollbead bracelet can enhance your imagination while creating a fashionable high-end accessory. Local retailer Dundee Gardens has a giant showcase of the beads, and the untold stories through the jewelry making can be endless. They’re simply waiting to be expressed.

Gallina’s capes

This quiet gem of a store in downtown Wilkes-Barre has left its mark on me. After one of my ultra-fashionable friends asked me in shock, “You haven’t been to Gallina’s?!”, I knew I had to visit the unfamiliar shop. There is no doubt in my mind I am revisiting Gallina and asking her to design me a custom cape. They are simply timeless and too beautiful to continue life without one. I would be shamed to be from NEPA and not have this designer who lives right here in our backyard consult me on an original piece. These capes are a Style Files pick indefinitely.

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