Waving the flag of fashion

This July marked the historic event, the removal of the Confederate flag from the South Carolina State Capital. The dismissal of this long-standing symbol of slavery, oppression, racism and division throughout American history resonated throughout the world. The lowering of the flag came on the heels of another monumental occurrence, the Supreme Court decision to legalize gay marriage across the country. These two events represent a civil rights silver lining within the midst of a cloud of hate crimes and multiple incidences of police misconduct. Fortunately for Coloradans, the state flag has been and continues to be a source of pride unsoiled without the history of symbolizing civil inequality.

“Colorado Proud” is usually a phrase found in grocery stores, but in terms of fashion, Colorado Proud and Local Love have also become popular. Colorado’s fashion scene is covered with the state flag. The vibrant colors and strong geometric pattern found on the flag can be easily replicated in clothing. From hats, hoodies, shirts and men’s ties, wearing the Colorado flag is both a representation of revered connection to the state and a desire to stay on trend. The complimentary color combination is ideal for work and play. Highlight the gold within the color scheme with mustard-hued bottoms or accessories. The same approach can make the beautiful red pop or coordinate with the summer staple white.

For a spot-on evening look, pair Colorado T-shirts with a light-fabric, tailored blazer or jacket, straight leg or skinny pants, a high, thin wedge and top everything off with cool accessory — perhaps a fedora. This ensemble is a polished and fun alternative to the boring T-shirt and jeans combination. Always keep in mind when crafting a look: opposites attract. In the above example, a tailored piece elevates the level of sophistication. This rule is unisex and holds true when creating looks with high-end and low-end designer pieces.

Keeping loose in a tight spot

Be honest … constrictive clothing can be especially problematic in hot weather. Binding outfits and blistering weather don’t equal comfort. Loose-fitting clothing is an oasis in a desert of pencil skirts, but most fear they’ll lose a level of professionalism if they go that route. Don’t fret, I’m here to assure you it’s OK to choose comfort — without sacrificing political capital.

Loose or baggy pants are an office-appropriate alternative to capris pants and slacks. The right pair of baggy pants gives an elegant and effortless complete image when executed properly. Wear a fitted top with relaxed pant for casual Friday and throw on your favorite cropped bolero jacket and, voila, you are instantly presentation-ready. The design house of Balmain is internationally renowned for its variety of crisply styled baggy pants. An advantage this look has over its counterparts is that it’s universally flattering. Any body type can add this ensemble to their “go-to” summer options. But remember, baggy doesn’t mean sloppy — fit remains important. Select a fit that hits just below you natural waistline. The hidden bonus to donning these loose bottoms can be a hidden drawstring or elastic waistband to add flexibility.

Rising above 70 degrees

The decade of the 1970s inspired new, diverse fashion trends influenced by cultural paradigm shifts occurring simultaneously around the world. Although some of the fashion debuted during the decade has risen to iconic status — wardrobe staples like the classic Dianne Von Furstenberg wrap dress — other looks have ebbed and flowed. This summer season was marked with a revival of Saturday Night Fever-like metallic and sequins, funky-chunky high wedge heels, and tie dyed patterns seen on the runway and in street fashion. One of the’70s-spawned styles making a comeback is tie-dye. How does the professional incorporate this trend into office-approved attire? The answer is simple: be creative and use small doses. Tie-dye is everywhere from maxi dresses to ties. Infusing a small bit of the pattern will prevent you from looking like you’re at Woodstock, versus a trendy, well-put-together professional.

Hold on to summer with clutches

Totes and bucket-styled purses can become cumbersome, leave unsightly impressions on your shoulder, and cause you to perspire where the strap contacts skin. A great on-the-go option is to grab a clutch. New clutches come in all shapes and sizes, so exchanging your normal bag for a clutch doesn’t mean losing utility.

Clutches afford the budding crafter and fashionista the ability to repurpose old or broken necklaces. Simply position necklace tips on each end of the clutch, leaving enough slack to wear over your arm or shoulder, then clasp the clutch shut. In an instant, you’ve created an updated, versatile and unique purse.

Culturally inspired prints were a huge trend on runways this season. Beadwork, bright colors and unique shapes have taken clutches to a higher echelon in fashion. Traditionally, a clutch is used as an accessory for after-5pm attire and formal occasions; however, now there is no hard and fast rule prohibiting daytime use of this style of bag. Lovers of neutral tones needn’t shy away nor fret given the trendiness of patterns and colors. Instead, have fun playing with different textures and sizes in your favorite hues, whether neutral or not.

Hot hues and hair

The popular nude monochromatic make-up sported by Kate Hudson and other celebrities exemplifies summertime ease. The freedom afforded by this look is that hot-weather make-up blunders — think smeared or bleeding lipstick, melted, smudged raccoon eyes. Heat and rain does a number on your make-up and can vex your hair too.

During summer months, sunglasses do double-duty, as eye protection and instant hair band when outdoors. Eyewear is a great place to start experimenting with color. Rose isn’t just reserved for wine, while champagne is muted enough for the color-shy. Caution: your mood might be enhanced, if you start seeing the world through rose-colored glasses.

The Purple Carpet

This month, Gov. John Hickenlooper is spotlighted on the Purple Carpet for his signature, laid-back and easy look that represents summer. The governor is known for his classic chambray and button shirts sans ties. His signature look is efficient and understated but never over-done. Beyond beating the heat, the relaxed style he displays carries an additional function by giving him that “rolled-up sleeves and ready to work” look.

The lady coming up after him on the Purple Carpet is Colorado’s only statewide elected woman, Attorney General Cynthia Coffman. She represents both the opposite party and a different approach to style. New to the position, she has defined her trademark fashion early. Her look can be summed up as “Classic Corporate,” but she pulls it off naturally, and often throws in a dash of her signature teal. That’s an impressive feat when facing warm temperatures outside the courthouse.

As always, keep sending in your nominations for the Purple Carpet. You might see your pick define the next edition of the State of Style. Remember to stay cool and stylish.

Lynne Lombard-Hunt is a political consultant, policy analyst and former Denver City Council staffer, and is married to Rep. Jovan Melton, D-Aurora. She writes a regular column about style and fashion in the Colorado political realm. Send Purple Carpet nominations to Lynne@LynneLombard-hunt.com.