Fashion 2004

IF YOU LOVE... PANTS

...and not just low-rises, then you'll love this season's newest options: styles with higher waists, wider legs, a slouchier look all around.

The newest way to wear them: Pair with a fitted top that's even a bit shrunken. That way you still look tailored, not sloppy.

IF YOU LOVE... "UNDONE" CLOTHES

There's plenty to get excited about: denim jackets with raw edges, chiffon dresses with frayed seams, even ladylike jackets that look deconstructed.

The newest way to wear them: Choose raggedy touches on clothes that are still light and pretty (no Goth black this season)—pastel tweeds, sheer chiffon, lace.

IF YOU LOVE... SPECIAL DRESSES

One you probably don't already have in your closet is this season's most popular style—a 1950s shape with a full skirt.

The newest way to wear them: Keep your accessories modern flat (sandals or strappy heels) as opposed to retro (kitschy '50s-style bags or pumps). And avoid big prints—combined with the exaggerated skirt shape, they add 10 pounds.

IF YOU LOVE... TRENCH COATS

They've gotten a femme makeover with sleeker shapes, lighter fabrics, and pretty details, like tweed trim and ribbon edging.

The newest way to wear them: Keep yours to the knee or shorter; anything longer looks dowdy.

IF YOU LOVE... PRINTS

You're not alone—patterns, from florals big and small to more graphic designs and travel motifs, are everywhere now.

The newest way to wear them: Try one in the season's new fuller shape skirts, worn with a chunky Dad-style cardigan.

IF YOU LOVE... COLOR

Then this is your season! The malls will be packed with blouses, dresses, even coats and shoes in everything from vivid rainbow hues to dusty shades.

The newest way to wear them: Mix with neutrals like white or camel, or even fresher, with other colors. Just be sure to keep your mixed pieces in the same tone family—brights with brights, pastels with pastels.

IF YOU LOVE... SPORTS CHIC

Then watch for the continued popularity of athletic detailing: Adidas-style stripes on "work" clothes, fitted (and sexy) hoodies, sweatshirt-style tops edged in sheer fabrics.

The newest way to wear them: Mix a tailored piece with a sportier item (a curvy, side-stripe skirt looks polished with a trim jacket, less so with a slouchy top).

IF YOU LOVE... CLASSIC CLOTHES

Attention, crewneck-and-simple-skirt addicts: This season, all your favorite pieces have been fancied up in luxurious fabrics (satin and lightweight cashmeres and tweeds), with special stitching or trim details.

The newest way to wear them: Mix with one unexpected piece—a neutral outfit with a colorful shoe, or try a classic shape in an audacious color.

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Your Best Fashion Now: Figure-Flattering Fashion