Fashion Culture : November 11, 2008

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Importance of Clothing in The Devil Wears Prada

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Nov 11, 2008 by Racheline M.

While clothes are critical to creating the mood for all movies, films about fashion particularly rely on their costumes to tell the story and impress their audience. This is certainly true of the 2006 flick The Devil Wears Prada. Of course, just as the film is largely a caricature of the world of fashion, often the clothes are too.

It's not that the individual pieces don't have their great moments. Rather, The Devil Wears Prada combines too many signature elements, making various outfits look too busy, or in some cases, too cliché as logos and signature patterns take over the screen.

That said, The Devil Wears Prada absolutely gets some things right, including showing us, almost by negative example, just how hard it can be to be fashionable. After all, it's easy to look like you're trying too hard or your clothes are a costume. To be fashionable, you also have to look comfortable, or at least familiar, with your clothes. If you can't walk in three-inch heels, don't wear them.

Some of the cutest looks in The Devil Wears Prada are clearly influenced by menswear. A prep school style blazer paired with fabulous boots and a short, tweed skirt has potential in its mixing of ideas. So does the tweed newsboy cap donned with an otherwise over-accessorized outfit.

But understated and enduring are today's fashion trends (as is often common in difficult economic times), and the outrageousness of the looks in The Devil Wears Prada are more suited to the crazy consumption of the 1980s.

If you want to take your fashion cues from The Devil Wears Prada don't try to recreate entire looks or styles from the film. Rather find one item in a costume you enjoyed and use that to build your own look, keeping your ideas focused and understated, so when you catch someone's eye with your fashion savvy, the image you want them to see is clear.

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Green Movement in Clothing: Organic Maternity Wear

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Nov 11, 2008 by MJM

Many expectant mothers start thinking about what kind of life they want for their baby, as well as the type of world the little one will be living in. As a result, it is no surprise that many pregnant women are interested in organic maternity clothing. The green movement in clothing is expanding to expectant mothers, and a range of organic maternity clothing is now being offered.

Organic Maternity Clothing: Comfort and style
Organic maternity clothing -- especially green clothing made from organic cotton -- can be very comfortable for expectant mothers. In many cases, organic cotton breathes well and provides comfort. This is especially important during the summer. Additionally, organic maternity clothing is free of harmful dyes that can irritate the skin. For those with sensitive skin, having an organic option can really help improve comfort as the pregnancy progresses and clothing options become more limited.

Additionally, it is nice to know that you will be protecting your child. While most people believe that harmful chemicals in dyes used on clothing probably will not affect fetal development, many receive peace of mind from knowing that they are not taking any chances. With organic clothing, you do not have to worry about chemical exposure.

It is true that on an environmental note, buying used clothing is best. But it can be difficult to find used maternity clothing in good condition. Many women keep their maternity clothes, looking forward to the next pregnancy. In cases where you have a hard time finding used clothing, organic maternity clothing can be a good, green alternative. Look for clothing made from natural fibers, and clothing that is free of manmade chemicals and dyes. Round Belly is one of the best sites for organic maternity and children's clothing.

Your new child will live in the world you helped create. The choices we make now affect our children and grandchildren. We can take a stand by making lifestyle changes, and organic clothing is just one part of the equation.

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