Dropped the F-bomb recently? Sure you have… I won’t tell. Closing out another session has had everyone stressed out and running on all cylinders with words like fiscal notes, fiduciary responsibility and filibuster repeatedly on the tips of everyone’s tongue around the Dome. What did you think I was talking about? Speaking of F-words, fashion, specifically spring fashion is in full bloom.

Four Fundamental F’s of Fashion:

Fabric: When it comes to fabric, no one makes it like mom makes it… Mother Earth that is.

Function: Sweat stains and discomfort scream Nay!

Finance: Similar occasions allow amended outfits.

Fun: Color and patterns are synonymous; using both are simple ways to inject fun into your personal collection.

Fabric is supreme

One of the challenges that professionals face during the warmer months is how to keep cool while maintaining a stylish, business-appropriate persona in the face of wilting heat. Mastering the art of layering is key for staying comfortable and fashionable.

Layering fundamental No. 1 is choose breathable fabrics, specifically natural fibers. Cotton and silk do not trap heat and moisture as readily as man-made fabrics like polyester. However, heavy natural fabrics like leather do not lend themselves to canvassing friendly attire. Canvasing and working the crowds at summer festivals will beg you to invest in quality walking shoes. When thinking of heat, think of your feet. Light socks are a must from a health and economic standpoint.

Design and function don’t have to be adversarial

To further increase your versatility, incorporate clothing chameleons into you arsenal. Halter neck jumpsuits equate to the summer sheath dress. Throw a blazer on while meeting with stakeholders. Later, remove the blazer to show off a cool, sophisticated “After 5” look. The jumpsuit and blazer combination is a modern, wearable alternative to the controversial short suit. In recent years, the short suit has reappeared both in men’s wear and woman’s wear. Choosing to wear a short suit is an individual decision. When executed with precision it can result in a classy and transitional day-to-night look. Length is the swing vote when considering short suits. Ladies: school dress codes apply; the hemline should not be higher than your fingertips. Gentleman: a short suit is a bold statement and selecting an inappropriate length can prove disastrous. Avoid embodying “Peter Pan” and keep it long; mid knee is the perfect length as it covers the knees and showcases the calf. Shorter length clothing means your shoes are put on display. Pedicured toes, cleaned and shined shoes play a pivotal role in fashion as mercury rises.

Menswear options are less constrictive in spring and summer compared to fall and winter. A trim-fitting solid polo shirt in white, tan khakis and a navy blue blazer will carry you through until the leaves begin to change. Gents, make your fashion IQ known by making wise accessory choices. Familiar with the saying “the devil is in the details?” Monograms are a chic, simple and inexpensive way to jazz up simple staples. Overlooking the vast world of ties, tie pins, hats, watches, shoes and belts is the number one reason for the high incidences of fashion “cloning” in the workplace.

Details apply to the ladies as well. Get noticed with unexpected touches, draped hi-lo hems, sporty racer backs, unique necklines and strategic splashes of color elevate what you wear from an “outfit” to a cohesive look.

Don’t let events veto your budget

The month of May ushers in a unique host of special occasions everyone in politics should be prepared for: graduations, fundraisers, award ceremonies and weddings. For many of us this means purchasing special-occasion attire. Invest in pieces that you can re-wear for these events. This way, come the holidays you are not scrambling to create a formal ensemble. Having forethought and making calculated special occasion selections will ensure that come “the most wonderful time of the year,” you are pulled together. What is the added bonus? You look polished and pulled together without stress.

If you have the honor to be selected to be part of a wedding party, remember you may face a slightly different challenge as opposed to you’re normal fundraiser or banquet, as you’re not the focus of the event, and won’t want to outshine the newly united couple. You’ll need to present a particular look, cut or color that fits the preferences of the bride and groom, and that also complements existing pieces in your closet. However, a “Bridezella” or “Groomzilla” may not be open to suggestions, and in these cases choose your battles. As a guest, use the wedding palette for inspiration and to step out of your comfort zone. Playing mother or father of the bride offers the same opportunities for mindful purchases during this season. Understand that clothing that is wedding-worthy is also fundraiser, public dinner, and graduation friendly.Flowers are blooming, why aren’t you?

The easiest and fastest way to infuse fun into your wardrobe is to introduce color. This year’s Spring and Summer trends spotlight shades of blues, light earthy neutrals, blushes, lavenders and greys, orange-red, black and white, inspired by designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, Givenchy and Donna Karan. You need not pay designer prices to keep a fresh, current appearance. Small pieces make large statements. Using a hint or peak of color is an elegant and modern flair in the workplace. Gentleman, choose ties, pocket squares and socks in these shade and you are guaranteed a second reading. Ladies, this is the season to honor, embrace and flaunt femininity. A whole pastel suit is not recommended unless attending the Kentucky Derby, however a monochromatic look in grey is timeless and contains elements from your wardrobe fundamentals. The right shirt in blushes and lavenders are beautiful shirt and tie color schemes. If you are fortunate enough to have a bride or groom who is willing to listen to suggestions, select fabric and length that can be worn in colder months with addition of heavy hosiery, jackets, your favorite boots, and outwear.

Outerwear is hibernating while womanly silhouettes, and light fabrics flutter in sunlight. Fit and fabric can never be overestimated, as often this is the difference between a fashion Yea and a fashion Nay. Cuts and lengths that have seasonal appeal include A-line knee-length dresses for women and tailored but relaxed fit trousers and dark denim for men.

The Purple Carpet highlights those with extraordinary fashion performance from both sides of the isle. After taking nominations, the results are in. These two demonstrate how fun is done in both a professional and polished manner.

Our gentleman this month comes from the left side of the isle and happens to hold the gavel in the House of Representatives when the speaker needs a Tab. Rep. Dan Pabon, D-Denver, represents House District 4 in style. Often seen around the Capitol with well-fitted suits, coordinated ties and unmatched designer shoes, his style is trademarked his own.

The lady working her way down the Purple Carpet is a conservative that comes up to the Capitol from Southern Colorado. Rep. Clarice Navarro, R-Pueblo, represents House District 47 with femininity and polish. She is often seen gracing the House chamber in skirted suits, sensible heels and exceptional accessories that add the necessary pop to make her stand out.

These two definitely know how to legislate fashionably. They demonstrate that you can take a traditional look and own it with an unique statement piece. They know how to make a little flare go a long way. You may not always agree with their political views, but their style is undeniable. Keep the nominations coming and next month you may also see them on the Purple Carpet.

Email me at Lynne@LynneLombard-Hunt.com.

Lynne Lombard-Hunt is a political consultant, policy analyst and former Denver City Council Staff. She is the wife of Rep. Jovan Melton, D-Aurora. She writes a regular column about style and fashion in the Colorado political realm for The Colorado Statesman. To submit a name for the Purple Carpet, email Lynne@LynneLombard-hunt.com.