Winter 2006-2007 Fashion Trends

There are many different trends emerging for winter of 2006 through 2007. Fashions are becoming less girly and frilly, and more sharp and tailored. There are several different themes you're sure to see, including influences from the 1980s. Colorful Scottish plaid, menswear inspired pieces and large, bulky knits are a few more key factors to a stylish winter. Here are some more tips to keep you looking hot when it's cold outside:

Casual Wear: The best place to play around with the 1980's trends is in your casual wardrobe. Try layering a long, chunky, colorful sweater belted at the waist over a pair of black leggings. Finish the look with ankle boots and tie it all together with bold jewelry. Skinny jeans are back in style also. This simply means that the jeans have a bit of stretch to them and fit tightly. Pair them with a cute plaid blazer and neutral camisole top.

Career Wear: In the office, try pairing some crisp boyish trousers with a masculine cut jacket. To add some feminine flair, try a ruffled blouse or add a few pieces of glittering gold or silver jewelry. Or, go for retro chic with a slim pencil skirt, square-toed pumps and a cute sweater with cute marabou trim. To work popular plaid into your ensemble, try pairing a plaid jacket with solid neutral slacks or go for a cute plaid skirt topped off with a solid blouse in a complementing shade.

Formal Wear: Retro details are showing up in formal wear as well. Go for a sequin-adorned dress with a fishtail hem for instant glamour. Or, go the fairy princess route with a pretty ball gown with a close-fitting bodice and billowing tulle skirt. Classic sheath dresses are always in style, especially when worn in jewel tones like rich ruby, emerald or sapphire. Dress up a simple gown with a faux fur boa or wrap dyed to match.

Outerwear: Fur is back, but this time it's faux and not real. Try a puffy down jacket adorned with a bit of faux fur around the cuffs or hood for a little extra interest. Classic wool trench and walker coats are classics that will never go out of style. If you're conservative, go for a color like black or beige. If you like more color, try bright crimson or royal blue. For your casual days, slip on a cozy parka in a favorite shade such as clean winter white. If you don't care for white, try an eye-catching bright like fuchsia or even lime green for a cute vintage vibe.

Shoes: High heeled ankle boots are back in fashion and available in a wide variety of styles and colors to match any ensemble. Ballerina flats are also popular again. The tall boot trend is still going strong, as are platforms and strappy stilettos. Popular colors for winter footwear include wearable neutrals like black, dark brown and even navy blue.

No matter what the trends are for winter, it's important to choose apparel that makes you feel good when you're wearing it. The perfect outfit can make you sparkle with the confidence and charisma that comes with knowing you look great!