Today's Fashion - Tube Tops

The term tube top is used to describe a top that has been tightened by means of elastic bands, which are strategically placed at the top and bottom of a garment. This top first appeared in the 1950s with the purpose of preventing a woman's breast from dropping.

In my opinion, the evolution of fashion has transformed this form fitting top from a purpose into a fashion style that I cannot get enough of.  Based on the textiles of the tube, it can be used casually or added with accessories, it can be used as a dressy top.  Paired with leggings this outfit can be used on a night out with friends.

As a Trini, I wear my tube tops to parties, but they are sometimes difficult to find in local stores. Check out three of my favourite tube top pieces below: -

 

 

Do you love tube tops as much as I do?

Today's Fashion - Pleats

A pleat is a type of fold that can be done using the fabric on clothing so that a wide circumference can be narrowed.  However, for modern usage, it is commonly used for stylistic reasons.

While the use of pleats for any type of outfit in a Trinidadian’s wardrobe is not common, I believe that pleats can make a fashion statement without seeming dated if incorporated with just the right accessories.

Below is an accordion pleated top I purchased two weeks ago.  There are three reasons this top is simply fashionable to me.  Firstly, the turtle neck effect of the top allows the pleats to cascade elegantly.  Secondly, the pleats were not overdone.  A printed material was used and placed only to the front and not the back of the top and thirdly, by designing as a halter, this pleated top was transformed into a modern day dressy top quite suitable for a party. 

Accessorise with a chunky gold bracelet and gold earrings or perhaps the accessories can contain a bit of burgundy to pair with the colour of the top.

 

What colour accessories do you prefer to wear this accordion top with?

 

Today's Fashion - Maxi Dresses

It is a cool Saturday night in Trinidad and you are going to dinner to celebrate your best friend's birthday.  There is no shortage of restaurants and your momentum gradually builds with the thought of good company, good drinks, laughter and jokes that await you.  After all, Trinis are known for having a good time.

My fashion choice for dinner is always a maxi dress.  The fabrics for these dresses are usually soft and luxurious, yet they are much less costly than your traditional formal dresses.

I cannot forget to mention, the maxi dress style has always been a trend of transforming daytime fashion to night time fashion.  From lunch and shopping to dinner with friends or your significant other.

The cardigan above is optional.  Flat shoes are a must and classic hoop earrings complete the look. 

How do you feel about this simply fashionable dinner choice?

Today's Fashion - Just A Fashionable Trini

There is no written rule or law that says simplicity has to be boring. Just take a stroll around a savannah and feel the cool breeze gently brush through your hair. Or take a drive to the beach and watch the waves crash against the shore, yet they go no further.

In this vein, fashion can be simple yet create a powerful statement. Simple elements such as accessories, a pop of colour or simply the construction of an outfit to accentuate all the right features, can withstand the scrutiny of fashion emanating from renowned fashion gurus of the world from Europe, Milan and New York.

Embark on this journey with me to discover how to take the simplicity of Trinidad and Tobago and by extension the region and create a fashion capital of the Caribbean that is Simply Fashionable.