Classic Claudia Pegus for everyday.

You know, as much as I love fashion and finely made clothing, I sometimes don't see how some Haute Couture/Runway designs can be worn in real life. I can appreciate the theatrical presentation of the clothing and the whimsical touches, but oh lawd! Nobody wants to hop on the subway wearing a sweeping floor length cape or an enormous tulle skirt. Most designers have learned to walk that fine line though, mixing the larger than life elements with actual clothing pieces at their shows. But the litmus test is the ability of those designs to be easily translated into everyday (or at least special occasion) wear. Take Trinidadian Claudia Pegus' 2008 line, for example. Rife with style, oozing with glamour and a classic elegance, the collection illustrates Ms. Pegus' 30 years of Design experience (She's worked/trained in Spain, Switzerland, France, Germany, London, New York, Miami, and of course, Trinidad) The fabrics used, the cuts and the draping of materials are all divine, but where the hell are you going to wear that shell-like number pictured here? It's a favourite of mine, but in fantasy or reality, it's only permissible if you're going to an extra, extra, extra high profile event, you're a Celebrity, and you intend on being the belle of the ball! Think about selecting just a part of a snazzy ensemble and pairing it with a basic style essential. The idea is to jazz up your regular look with a selection that stands out, making you look your chicest self, without appearing to be a costumed fool. The selections below can all be worn alone, but for the sake of versatility, here are some sample pairing suggestions utilizing my top picks from Claudia Pegus' 08 line.



1. Use the top with a denim pencil skirt or khaki hot shorts, and strappy heels. In reverse, the skirt can be used with a basic & crisp white shirt that's tucked in, with sleeves rolled up)









2. Great on its own, this swingy mini dress can also be put to us over a pair of slate/black sheer leggings or dark rinse skinny jeans. Jewel adorned ballet flats or thong sandals gives it a modern take; jewel encrusted heels will suit a night out.







3. For an innocent/sexy vibe, pair the top with skinny or slightly flared dark rinse jeans, and a peep toe wedge. It's also fine 'as is' ; pair with an envelope clutch purse & solid platform pumps for a finished look.









So go brave, mix & match, and have a fashionably good ol' time. Check our Caribbean Fashion Parade for more designs from Claudia Pegus 08.

L.M.N. Harris.