There Is A Zoo Out There Of Fabrics And Fashions
If you’re on the prowl for animal prints, you’ve probably already noticed it’s a zoo out there. From skin-skimming jeans to upholstery fabric, the fashion world has gone wild with beastly prints.
With a little initiative and some inexpensive materials, you can make a fashion statement by customizing your clothes with animal print “cuff dickeys” and shoulder epaulets. Removable accents like these make a sale garment an even better bargain. I found the separates on my Dress For Less model on the clearance rack at my local department store. I fixed them up with 1/4 yard of zebra print fabric.
Any fabric will do, but I like Ultrasuede because it doesn’t require hemming or finished edges so it’s easier to use. It is also more expensive ($56.92 a yard). Order Ultrasuede direct from Baer Fabrics, Fashion Mail Order, 515 Market Street, Louisville, KY 40202 or call (800) 769-7776.
Insta-tack Liquid Pressure Sensitive Glue, Stick It Again and Again by Aleens and Magic Glue by Plain allow you to apply decorative appliques to your clothes without having to sew them on. Peel them off at the end of the day. Just follow the manufacturer’s directions, keeping in mind that some of these adhesives are permanent after 24 hours, so don’t leave a patch on if you don’t want it there forever.
For hundreds of good practical ideas for maximizing your wardrobe, I recommend Jan Saunder’s book, “Wardrobe Quick-Fixes.” Fabric stores carry the book or you can order it by phone. Call (800) 995-6551.
Designer version
Black velvet/wool/acrylic blazer with zebra print accents by Equator, $188
Black wool skirt by Equator, $78
Black turtleneck body suit by DKNY Essentials, $165
Total: $431
Dress For Less version
Black wool double-breasted blazer, on sale for, $98.48
Black wool button-front long skirt, on sale for $41.98
Black cashmere/silk blend turtleneck sweater, $39.97
Items above by Jones New York at major department stores, Total: $180.43
MEMO: All of the best looks and fashion bargains featured in this column are available in book form. Send $9.95 to Dress For Less, 177 Sound Beach Ave., Suite 6, Old Greenwich, CT 06870. For info about catalogs mentioned here, send a SASE to the same address.