This Season There’s A Simple Shift In Style

The shift, simple and elegant, is a dress many designers and fashion consultants are calling a “must-have” for the spring and summer ‘96 wardrobe. Usually worn at or slightly above the knee, this classic dress is being seen with a jacket at the office or dressed up with a few simple accessories for a stunning evening look.

The princess line design (seams running the length of the dress from shoulder to hem) is flattering to almost any body shape. It enhances the positive aspects of your figure while disguising many flaws. It works especially well when worn with a similar shade of hose and shoes. This gives you a taller, thinner silhouette.

The shift style of dress is available at many different stores and at a variety of prices. We found a Kenneth Nolan design at a local department store for $99.99. Since it is made of rayon it must be dry-cleaned, adding to the long-term cost. Shoes, by Nickels Co-ops, cost $104, and hose, light support control top, cost $9.50. Total for the outfit: $213.49.

For a more economical version we shopped around a bit and were able to reproduce the look at a real savings. We found a dress by Jonathan Martin for $49.99. Rush Hour shoes from Leeds cost $12 and Hanes light support hose cost $3.95. The total for this outfit comes to $65.94, a savings of $147.55 over the first dress.

Due to its versatility, adding one or two of these dresses in different colors to your wardrobe can multiply your options. Try pearls and a matching jacket for a truly classic look. Switch to a cardigan in a complementary color for a softer touch on those cool spring days. For evening, a gold chain belt and drop earrings give it a more dramatic appearance.

Whether you have one or six, the shift is couture styling at its best. The simple, flattering lines that make it so versatile also guarantee we will be seeing this design for several seasons to come. xxxx