Fashion sense

One of the most enjoyable aspects of fashion is that each season brings something new. It’s fun and fascinating for our 225 team to bring you the latest trends. Whether through the pages of this magazine, online with our Think Twice Style blog or on the runway at the Avenue Rouge Runway fashion show, we want to help keep you in style.

With summer behind us, and the fall season emerging, it’s time to start thinking about what you’ll be wearing to the many parties and events you plan to attend these next four months. Maybe this is the season that you try something new or completely unexpected. How about stepping out with some bright colors or artfully mixing different patterns? It’s amazing how many compliments follow when you wear something just a little outside of your comfort zone. The truth is, when it comes to fashion, you’re only limited by your imagination.

It took me years to understand that I could take the latest trends of the season and play with them to create a look that is uniquely mine. I’ve learned that there are various ways to add flair to my navy suit. It doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s. Just by changing a solid shirt to a striped shirt or adding a bright tie or some cool cufflinks, I can make that traditional look my own.

Here are two of my personal fashion tips for the month. First, make friends with a good tailor. If you buy custom-made clothes, that’s great. But if you purchase moderately priced clothes off the rack like most people do, nothing raises their quality more than having them altered to fit your shape exactly. Build a relationship with a tailor or dressmaker who knows your body and your taste, and you’ll never look back.

Second, clean out your closet at least once a year. This is advice that I give my wife all the time. Clothes need breathing room! You should be able to see every item in your closet without rummaging. Consider donating anything you have not worn in the past year. You won’t just be taking better care of your wardrobe. You’ll be a blessing to another person who could really use what you don’t need anymore.

My wife Sherry has a keen eye and her own fashion sense. By watching her put outfits together, I’ve learned there are infinite ways to add style to her little black dresses or a pair of designer jeans. Sherry reminds me that fashion should be fun, and she says this always keeps things fresh and makes her feel great!

Many of us must balance the demands of a career with the needs of our families, but few exemplify that task more than local model Nichole Gregory. Now in her 40s, Gregory is working as much as ever, traveling to New York City and other style capitals for work. This married mother of two is not just a glamorous model for the cameras, but a role model for her children: a strong, intelligent and motivated woman who is a success at home and in her chosen field of business. Read Contributing Editor Amy Alexander’s profile of Gregory.

Louisiana fashion fans cheered in January when local designer and LSU alum Anthony Ryan Auld took home the title of Project Runway All Stars champion. Auld thanked fans in return at a raucous viewing party and meet-and-greet session at the Louisiana State Museum. 225 returned to the downtown museum with Auld to photograph an exclusive sneak peek at his upcoming Spring 2014 collection. Editor Jeff Roedel spoke with the acclaimed designer about his future in the industry and in Baton Rouge, as well as his recent battle with testicular cancer. Read about Auld and see his latest designs.

Of Moving Colors is one of the most established and creative performance groups in our community, and the dance company continues to innovate. Led by Garland Goodwin Wilson, Of Moving Colors is celebrating its 27th season with an elaborate series of photo and video shoots highlighting its dancers among iconic and unusual landmarks in Baton Rouge. The company will publish a photo book at the end of the project. Assistant Editor Benjamin Leger spoke to Wilson, and you can read his story here. For updates and a complete schedule of performances, visit ofmovingcolors.org.

Trevor Sims was diagnosed with cancer at 5 years old and five years later, his cancer is now terminal. As his days are numbered, Trevor made a very special wish list that has touched many hearts and inspired an entire community. Most of Trevor’s desires were simple. One was to feed the homeless and those in need, which he recently did with a Healing Place Church outreach. What a beautiful reminder of compassion. Trevor is a special boy, and we want to define a movement in his honor to help give back to those in need. We are challenging all who live in the 225 area to participate in this food drive partnered with the Greater Baton Rouge Food Bank! Wondering how you can get involved Sept. 1-7, you can donate food or funds to help Trevor’s wish come true. If you decide to donate, make sure to note in the “comments” section of your donation that your gift is for Trevor Sims’ cause. That way we can let him know what a great impact he is making on the Baton Rouge community. To make a donation go to brfoodbank.org.