Fashion is found in the details

Fashion is found in the details
Janna Farley • jjfarley@argusleader.com • May 16, 2008

For years, menswear-inspired clothing for women has been popular. Sleek trousers, tailored vests and even a tie or two makes for an elegant and even sexy look.

But sometimes, a little feminine frill can be fun.

This season, the common denominator among many clothes for women is that feminine frill - those simple details that elevate an ordinary shirt into one that's pretty and playful. It's about light and easy details like contrasting trim, delicate layers, soft ruffles, strategically placed bows and ties and precise but never overdone embellishments.


In short, it's what makes you say, "hey, I need to buy this." It didn't take me long to shop around Sioux Falls to say that either. Here are a few great shirts I found with fun, feminine flourishes.

- Knitwear isn't just for winter. Artful prints - and short sleeves, natch - keep it fresh for summer. This pullover from Old Navy ($28.50) features sweet scalloped sleeves - a delightful alternative to the ordinary straight edge. It's a subtle, yet thoughtful detail.

- The most fashionable women I know have a style that looks effortless. (Whether it is or not is another story. Perhaps they spend hours mixing and matching various outfits in front of their closet mirror.) But my point is that they make style look simple. I get that same no-fuss but still fashionable feel from this shirt from the Gap ($29.50). The lightweight floral shirt is airy and romantic, with a side tie that adds a trendy touch.

- The classic white button-front shirt has been given a pretty - yet still practical - makeover with the addition of a few ruffles around the collar, like on this shirt by INC ($69 at Macy's). It's a slight nod to the Victorian era (or, for you "Seinfeld" fans - the episode with Jerry's puffy shirt). Either way, I love the flirtatious whimsy of this shirt. And, it can pull double duty, too. Dress it up with a pair of trousers for work or wear it with your favorite jeans for the weekend.

¥ The basic tank top is practically a required part of every woman's summer uniform. After all, there's nothing cooler to wear on a 90-degree day. But why settle for the ordinary ribbed boy version? Instead, pick one with a bit of elegant embroidered detail at the bottom, like this one by Testament ($66 at Posh Boutique). Pretty and practical _ the perfect combination.

- The simple T-shirt is a timeless staple in every closet. Update yours by picking out a knit that features delicate lacy details, like on the neckline and sleeves of this shirt by Isaac Mizrahi ($27.99 at Target). It's an unexpected accent that modernizes _ and feminizes _ an otherwise simple silhouette.

Reach Janna Farley at 575-3628.