Spice Up Your Sporty Wardrobe

Remember the casual sporty style heralded by Calvin Klein and Donna Karan in the early eighties. It is this season's alternative if you can't face the flowery look this spring. Neutral tones, clean lines and a bit of attitude will get you where you want to go.

In a season in which most designers are focusing on sugar-coated femininity, pared-down, modern sportswear is a good alternative. Take your inspiration from Francisco Costa, who recently took over at Calvin Klein and who has been playing with the neutral tones, light fabrics and clean lines for which Klein became known. Or take a look at Jil Sander, who recently returned after a three-year catwalk absence with a collection of subtly feminine designs that included key pieces such as simple shirts, T-shirts and softly flared skirts.

Christopher Bailey's collection for Burberry Prorsum is perfect for sportswear look a sexy twist. Wear fine cotton vests in peppermint or lilac paired with flared striped skirts, worn low on the hips. This is a perfect look for summer, teamed with flat sandals, or could be worn under a casual bomber jacket or trench coat in the spring.

Layering is crucial to a sporty look. One trick is to pile on vests in contrasting materials and shapes; Margaret Howell has gorgeous vests that are designed to be worn together in satin or cotton and in different colours. Topshop, Miss Selfridge and Gap have excellent versions, too.

9 February 2004

Where To Wear It

When in Rome, do as the Romans do. Dressing appropriately when you're a global jetsetter takes more than a few designer labels in your suitcase. The rule of thumb is that dress standards and trends do not translate between cities.

While in Rio a casual and unfussy way of dressing is the norm - you wear whatever you want when you want to. Travel further West to Hong Kong you would not be wearing a pair of jeans to an informal gathering. That would amount to having a most embarrassing moment of one's life. Worse even; in Asia they don't tell you when you've made a fashion faux pas, you get stared at until you beg your date to take you home.

In L.A., for instance, it is all about comfort. Jersey dresses and Ugg Boots fare better than Manolo Blahniks and Chanel twinsets. It is an athletic culture so looking relaxed is key. When you get off the plane in New York, however, ditch the Birkinstocks for heels because for all that Manhattan is worth, it is still a conservative corporate environment. New Yorkers, as you've probably noticed, are very polished and sleek. Don't deviate too much from black! A simple skirt and poloneck will suffice.

Back in Rome, it's about classic looks. Leather shoes, suits and Italian tailoring are worn with a hint of sex. If you don't feel like dressing up, try Tokyo. The Comme des Garcons suits have been replaced by logo-a-go-go and you can pretty much wear anything as long as there is some designer onboard.

Getting your wardrobe right when traveling is essential. Otherwise you end up buying things that never need come out of your suitcase.

27 January 2004