Atlantic City Weekly

Another season, another group of fashion ideas to hit the runways and magazines.

Updating one's wardrobe does not require a complete overhaul. Layering with sweaters and vests allows flexibility. Hip-length monochromatic vests and shirts slim the body, but limit puffy quilted fabrics to shorter vests.

Volume is in vogue, particularly for wide hems, shirts and slacks -- but stay with one item. The same goes for prints, beads and embellishments, plaid or embroidery. Keep it simple.

Fashion consultants warn against multiple colors. Gray -- including pewter and charcoal -- is this year's top neutral. Contrast with gem-tone apparel in purple, teal and emerald.

For simpler dresses, matched suits and the menswear look for ladies, accessories accentuate shades and textures. Brightly colored handbags feature shiny patent surfaces and exotic skins. Hats have returned big time with face-flattering fedora and wide-brimmed shapes. Pendants are a big jewelry item -- long and bold over chunky knits, but subtle in open necklines.

Busy, active people want lifestyle apparel. Popular multifunction clothing includes waterproof jackets that are adaptable to all weather conditions.

Designer clothing is no longer a budget buster. Top designers, like Vera Wang, Ralph Lauren and Todd Oldham have gone "down-market," creating fashions for mass merchandisers. The NPD Group, a market analysis firm, reports a rise in the percentage of private-label branded U.S. retail sales, from 25 percent in 1975 to 53 percent today.

Both designers and retailers benefit. Designers gain marketing, distribution and a huge customer base; retailers can create a new image. Consumers win big with affordable prices.

The following are some other fall fashion trends.

A high quality panty that streamlines the figure is worth the price.

Lingerie and department stores often conduct bra-fitting seminars. However, there are no panty clinics. Plus, state laws often prohibit trying them on for health reasons.

So, how does a woman find the best underwear for her shape and lifestyle? Thin and heavy women often confront similar issues because they often limit themselves to certain styles.

Ladies, there are no ifs, ands or "butts" when buying the proper panties. Fit alters the body's shape and affects long-term comfort. Good underwear can be costly, so ascertain the correct size, color and style.

"A high quality panty that streamlines the figure is worth the price," says Gabrielle Harris, daughter of Julie Gunn, owner of Ocean City's Gabrielle & Co. "More function means a costlier panty. Our better panties average in the teens."

For the best fit, bring a personal pair of panties with you. Hold it against the new pair to compare the measurement. Do not be fooled by sizing. Like street clothing, various manufacturers and styles measure differently. A solid fit has a waistband that remains in place. Also, the taught, smooth fabric prevents bagging, chafing, visible panty lines or unflattering skin bulges.

Weight fluctuations and pregnancy affect the fit. Maternity panties are now available in many of the same fashionable styles as regular underwear.