FASHION ASTROLOGY

Fashion trends follow the energy of the Chinese astrological year. Notice how animal prints are big for Tiger year 2010. Follow these astrology guidelines to always be in style:

RAT YEAR – Dress for success and dress to impress. Rat is all about image so pile on the bling, even if it is costume. Red is lucky and tailoring is important. Look as good as you can at all times.

OX YEAR – Comfort is key, casual elegance returns, and jeans are a staple as are flat shoes. Focus is on practical recycled fabrics like cotton and hemp. Conservative and casual is fine but don’t be sloppy.

TIGER YEAR – Animal prints are in vogue, especially prints of the big cats. Fur makes a comeback, jewelry is over-sized, and fashion borders on costume especially accessories. Time to be brave, bold and daring. (Note: if you were born in Monkey year, avoid the big cat prints because Tiger is your opposite.)

HARE YEAR – Soft and fluffy are in with light furs, silk, and other fine fabrics. Quiet feminine luxury is desired, and fine craftsmanship is valued, Rare vintage or antique pieces are in vogue too, especially one-of-a-kind jewelry of colored stones.

DRAGON YEAR – Big prints, bright colors, and look-at-me dressing is fun, as are exotic animal skins; anything and everything dragon-like such as crocodile. Shoes and boots are strong. Over-the-top, diamonds, and lots of red can work in a Dragon year. (Note: If you were born in Dog year, Dragon prints or any type of Dragon imagery is not lucky for you.)

SERPENT YEAR – Exotic animal skins continue such as snakeskin, lizard, and stingray. But style is far more subtle and classic. The LBD makes a comeback. Elegance is key. Pearls return. Think classic Serpents like Audrey Hepburn, Greta Garbo, and Angelina Jolie.

HORSE YEAR – Athletic wear is on the rise, everyone runs errands in workout gear, and casual pared-down outdoorsy looks have their day in the sun. New synthetic material is used in most everything, not just for sports.

SHEEP YEAR – Luxury is back, fine jewelry is displayed, bring on the silks, lace, and finery. Feminine looks are big and dresses make a comeback. Accessories are important so delicate unique shoes and lady-like handbags are key.Time to dress up.

MONKEY YEAR – People want to have fun so colorful bright party dressing is in, even during daytime. Fur is highlighted, including all types of faux furs and offbeat styles such as chubbies. Red is lucky too.

PHOENIX (Rooster) – Feathers find their way into fashion. Sexy returns with figure-flattering knitwear. Hats make a comeback.

DOG YEAR – Classic, clean, and chic. Uniform dressing is very practical, saves time, and works. Military looks and safari/colonial are also in, as are trousers and menswear. Accessories are understated and classic.

PIG YEAR – Comfort meets luxury. Wrap yourself in cashmere for both clothing and home furnishings. Easy draped at-home looks are desired such as caftans, tunics, and robes but only in soft fine fabrics.