Ask an Expert: Fashion Forward Thinking For The Season In OC
Spring has sprung, and it's time to put winter coats and boots away and bust out new seasonal clothing. Owner and fashion designer of the clothing line Exclusive 5150, Kelvin Bellamy, shares some tips below regarding what's hot in fashion this spring.
Exclusive 5150 Clothing
Southern California
www.facebook.com/Exclusive5150Clothing
Kelvin Bellamy is a Southern California based fashion designer who created the Exclusive 5150 Clothing line 12 years ago by fusing together both casual and trendy looks with an urban flare. He was inspired by watching his grandmother sew as a child and didn't realize how much he paid attention until he sat down on a sewing machine himself later in life. He quickly remembered how to thread a needle, make pockets and hemlines. From that point, Bellamy explored what else he could design and sew, and in just six weeks, he produced Exclusive 5150's first fashion show in LA with 300 people in attendance, including industry professionals from New York, Atlanta, San Francisco and Texas. His designs have been sold in stores such as Rivera Boutique in the Burbank, CA Mall, Bosse Couture in Westlake Village, CA and Bless Shoes in Whittier, CA, as well as worn by stars in movies and music videos. Bellamy has plans to produce his next fashion show in May, 2015.
In addition to owning, operating and designing clothing for Exclusive 5150, he is partnering with the LA-based fashion lines Shido Creative, a mid to upscale casual street wear line, and West Royal, a posh indy/urban wear brand, to create new looks. The pieces are set to be launched during the 2nd quarter of this year. To contact Bellamy regarding fashion inquiries, please email kelvin@exculsive5150.com.
Bright And Pastel Colors
Add bright and pastel colors to your wardrobe such as vibrant yellows, aqua blues and light pinks and purples. Be sure to find a shade that complements your skin tone. For example, darker skin tones tend to pop with brighter colors and lighter tones are often enhanced by pastels.
Layers And Textures
Combine different layers and textures, such as lace and denim, to create more dimension to your outfit. Let go of trying to match all textures and instead, let your fun side come out this spring and integrate a variety of shades and clothing materials with this fashion trend.
Patterns And Bold Prints
Don't be afraid of abstract patterns with bold colors, such as checkers or flannel prints. Look for a dynamic pair of pants or leggings to bring the outfit together, and add a solid-colored shirt.
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Accent Your Outfit With Shoes, Accessories And Make-Up
For women, a colorful heel with a fun print pattern can turn a basic, black dress into a conversation piece. You can also make a classic, black dress pop with earrings, bracelets or necklaces. However, remember less is more. For example, if you're wearing flashy earrings, you may want to omit a necklace to keep your look clean and put together. Keep make-up light and pick colors to highlight your natural tones and eye color. Wear make-up close to your skin tone if possible, and save bold and bright make-up colors for nights out on the town, photo shoots and red carpets.
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