By Walter Greene

Night dressing should be a breeze, especially when the invitation reads
`Black Tie.' In this modern day way of dressing, that term should not
be approached so literally, one can bend and tweak an outfit so that it
would be appropriate for a social elegant event and not fall under the
constrains of a full-out evening gown with all of the trimmings.
Sometimes ladies do not `feel' to go through all that and yet can
simplify the chore and come out looking like a million bucks.

During New York events like fashion week, lots of the coverage in the
media came by way of the fashion from the street. What are the real
people wearing? By that I mean, just plain, regular folks like you and
me and not a Beyonce or Michelle Obama. Street fashion has become a
driving force in the industry, many designers and fashion pundits get
inspiration from what the people on the street are wearing, how they
interpret an outfit and make it their own. Among the head turners out
and about at Fashion Night Out, critics hailed the general crowds for
getting dressed up and doing their own thing.

People watching, especially in big cities like Los Angeles, Chicago,
New York and Miami is a huge deal. It is truly a spectator sport, one
that is very much a parade of fashion whether the fashion scribes like
it or not. Getting dressed should be a fun experience and nothing that
would stress you out once you know where you are going, the correct
dress code and what looks right for your specific body type. On the
subject of body type, is where we should all be very mindful. Everything
is not made for everybody. Just because a model or celebrity can rock
the cut-off shorts over leggings with a midriff top, means that every
Tessa, Donna and Jenny can do the same. You have to know what works for
you. It takes some sensible research and shopping to get it right.

Of course magazines and fashion periodicals do help, but sometimes a
mirror can be your best friend. Any mirror, especially those in the
department stores where you shop. Ask the sales assistant if an outfit
looks good, ask a stranger, your girlfriends and family can be biased,
so the opinion of an outsider, or a professional in the sales
department are most valuable. Don't be mad at constructive criticism.
Remember its your money being spent, once you've found the right cut
and color that works for you - Go for it, take your time while
selecting outfits and don't try to rush through the clothing racks or
sales on line. Be sensible, be smart and be objective in choosing your
garments. Make it a fun experience, and as Tim Gunn says `Make it work!'

As in the case of the recently concluded Jamaica Independence Ball at
the New York Hilton's grand Ballroom. there were many hits and misses.
Today we showcase some of the fashion hits of the evening.

CAPTIONS:

Angela Wan-Yu Lee, Creative Director of Jamrock Magazine wore a
one-shoulder Herve' Leger - photo 1238

MC Radio Personality Pat Mc Kay wore pale blue Carmen Marc Valvo - photo 1239

Sybil Chester and Yvette Clarke came with their fashionable Caribbean
flavor - photo 1233

Publicist Donette Dunbar wore a gown by designer Jill Sander - photo 1242

Una Clarke wore a Francis Hendy lace creation in the colors of the
Jamaican flag - photo 1234

Daphne Mahoney thrilled us with this jeweled `spectator hat' by
milliner Mr Willie - photo 1241

Sharon Gordon chose an appropriate sand color silk ball gown by
designer Jorgi - photo 1240