By Walter Greene

The shopping floors in the world's largest department store MACY'S are
always hot and popping with all of the latest seasonal fashions. Men, women and
children's wear are in abundance this summer and the brightest,
liveliest clothes are displayed and sold to a wide cross section of
customers who come from near and far to experience the magic of Macy's.
But recently, it was on the private 13th floor executive lounge, that feature an adjoining
terrace that the real fashionestas hung out on a sizzling hot June evening for cocktails
and Caribbean hors-d' oeuvres. The occasion was the celebration of Carib
News Caribbean's 100 movers and shakers in honor of Caribbean Heritage Month.

Ed Goldberg, Macy's Senior VP of Government and Consumer Affairs played host to the special VIP
reception and former Governor Basil Patterson was the special guest
speaker. With the heat index peaking to ninety degrees, that did not
daunt the fashion faithful to don their best, showing off what to wear
in the heat and yet remain comfortable, glamorous and trendy, all at the
same time. A special effort was made to look good by some attendees,
the colors of choice were fresh yellows, oranges and tropical blues.
Sensible fashionestas opted for pure white in summer appropriate cool
cottons. There were prints and clashes with perks of black and navy
among the mix, but an overall sense of light pastel colors prevailed.

Occasions like these demand comfort and nothing is more uncomfortable
than
to be in a social situation with beads of perspiration rolling down
one's cheeks, or aching feet confined to uncomfortably, tight shoes.
Who made it a rule to wear high heeled shoes to every occasion? Of
course, some affairs do call for elegant well heeled pumps, but hearing
women complain all the time about their shoes being too high, or too
tight..."but its so pretty I had to get it" is somewhat unfortunate.
Summer is the best time to invest in some COMFORTABLE flats, and this
season is no exception with the most beautiful sandals in most shoe
stores. There are even the simple jeweled sandals that add a little
bling to your step, and the easy metallic sliders are not only on trend
now, but comfortable to wear.

Ladies, this is not the time to worry and fret about what to wear at
which occasion. Its not rocket science, all it takes is a little
planning and some wardrobe adjustments. Take some time out for yourself
and invest in some quality pieces. Do some research, mull over the
fashion magazines, visit the designer floors and boutiques and see what
works for your body type before you hit the racks. Smart shopping is
key this season, there are several options, so step out of your comfort
zone and be bold, remember this is a season of color, ease and comfort
in fashion.

CAPTIONS

Macy's Ty Stone-Adams always a trendsetter choose a white mildly
sequined Michael Kors

Iasha Rivers another Macy's fashion plate wore this colorful tropical
Nicole Miller

Pauline Willoughby took time out from her Jamaica Independence Ball
preparations and wore this cool Jean Goud summer ensemble

Business woman Alsion Roache debut a surprise creation from her own son
R.Anthony in all white

Dr. Carlene Chin-Que looked cool and easy in a salmon color cotton
dress by Versace

Dr. Peggy Barnett was appropriately attired in a sunshine yellow Nina
Pilo two piece ensemble