Accessorize for Hot

  Accessories are a very open and diverse category, and it can change your whole look on a moments notice. Belts and sunglasses are amongst the pieces that can freshen-up your look this summer. Fashionable and useful, these pieces make; your style, your own. In a previous article, we addressed how to not have your pants down to your knees. A belt offers a solution to this obstacle, and changing your belt can change the look of those pants. Cool-looking and stylish, sunglasses offer a cutting-edge look that is protective as well. Most importantly, when you have sunglasses on, your eyes are hidden!

  Let's begin with belts. You don't need a new belt for each outfit; you just need the essential colors and styles. Colors range from blacks and browns to more neutral shades of beige, and styles vary from leather and canvas. Belts can be plain or decorative in appearance. You need the belts that are worn with formal outfits, such as suits, and the belts that are worn with informal outfits, such as jeans or cargos. Its fun to mix and match belts worn with suits, with informal outfits. Three or four belts are entirely sufficient for one's wardrobe.

  First is the simple black and brown leather belt. Ben Sherman makes a great simple belt. The great thing about this basic belt is that it comes in black or brown, so you don't have to shop any further for the essential brown belt. Another good belt maker is Kenneth Cole. These belts are also sold in black or brown. Both of these designers, black belts can be worn as formal, or informal. Typically, brown is not a color that is worn to a formal event, and thus, should be worn with jeans or cargos. Next is the canvas belt. If your style is described as laid back and casual, then a canvas belt would be perfect for you. Lacoste makes a simple stylish canvas belt that can also be worn with jeans or cargos.

  Sunglasses are fun and there are so many to choose from. The number one thing when buying sunglasses is to make sure they have 100% UV protection. Sunglasses range in price, so I will suggest a few brands worth considering when shopping for your cool new pair of shades.

  There are two different basic styles of sunglasses you can choose from, the metal and zyle (plastic) frames. Oliver Peoples designs a great pair of aviator sunglasses. The "Farrell" style is their new updated version for summer 2007, and it's looking hot! Keep in mind you can always change the shade of the lenses if you choose to. For a more basic style, The "Commander" by Oliver Peoples, comes in many colors. Both of these are stylish and strong. There are many other brands in the market that are similar to this style and can be bought at a lesser price. Check out your local eyeglass store to see the options. Armani Exchange is another perfect designer to consider.

  Next is the zyle frame. Zyle is the fancy word for the kind of plastic used in the eyeglass world. Armani Exchange makes some great zyle frames that are priced well. Their "retro navigator" resembles the aviator style glasses by Oliver Peoples. These glasses are a very bold and fashionable statement. You can also go with the simple rectangular sunglasses that can be worn with every outfit. Either style is perfectly fine and should fit your personality. Matsuda makes a wide variety of zyle frames that are more basic.

  Belts and Sunglasses can add style and a flow to an existing great outfit. They can change the look in coordinating your outfit. Additionally, the belt will keep your pants up where they need to be while the sunglasses keep your eyes protected. These are two key accessories that will add to your new summer wardrobe and be able to "spice" up your look! So next time you go out, don't forget your new stylish sunglasses!

About the author:

  Rochel Friedlander has spent her last five years working in men's fashion in New York City. Now living in Los Angeles, she continues to move forward in the fashion industry. During her sales experience, she has guided such retailers as Macys, Urban Outfitters, Atrium, E street denim, and National Jean Company to hit the right trends in the marketplace. Her knowledge of men's fashion comes from her experience and extensive travel of the world. She has spent years living in London, England and toured through France, Australia, Greece, Italy, and many more countries. This has helped her understanding of European trends and how they are transposed into the North American market.