Put away the midriff-bearing sweaters and hide those baggy jeans. The theme this winter season for both men and women seems to be well-fitted and professional.

‘Men’s styles are getting more metro and European,’ said John Vavalo, owner of J. Michael’s Shoes. ‘Some popular items are crewnecks with the argyle pattern, peacoats and jeans with a looser, but not baggy fit.’

The women who lived through the early Britney Spears years are growing up, along with their fashion sense. Styles are becoming less promiscuous and more polished.

‘We’ve moved beyond Britney,’ said Carla Lloyd, leader of Newhouse’s fashion/communications program. ‘Styles are becoming more polished, and people are also putting their own stamp of expression on what they wear to express themselves.’

Vintage-styled clothing is popular and encourages creativity and self-expression from the creator of the outfit. Several popular styles mimic trends from 20 years ago, such as leggings and oversized sweaters.

More Syracuse weather-specific styles revolve around – you guessed it – staying warm, specifically in the foot region. Boots of all kinds: rubber, leather and UGGs, have gravitated away from being a fashion statement and now are more a necessity.

‘Fashion is a challenge where we live since we need so many different pieces of apparel,’ Lloyd said. ‘It’s all about practicality in the end.’

kaoutram@syr.edu

Published on February 14, 2008 at 12:00 pm