Metallics, patterns hot for this season's formalwear

Wallflowers won't blend into the wall this season.

Instead, party dresses and formalwear in bright colors, metallics and splashy patterns dominate the trends for men and women.

"Right now in fashion you have a lot of freedom," said Sheilah Glasco, co-owner of Stella, 101 N. 14th St. "You can sport menswear like tuxedos, edgy dresses with patent leather or girly beaded dresses - it's not just about the little black dress anymore."

Although still a classic, the little black dress may either get pushed to the back of the closet this year or accessorized with some key pieces that are hot for winter. Three main trends came up over and over again on the runways for cocktail and formal dresses: shiny and metallic, beaded and detailed or laid-back and tuxedo-style.

"Metallic black, gold, silver and especially heather gray is really popular right now," said Jennifer O'Dell, co-owner of Omaha boutique Be Yourself. "Even mixing two different tones, like silver and gold together, creates a hip look for winter."

Shiny dresses in metallics or rich jewel tones are all customers are buying, O'Dell said.

Some dresses even mix fabrics and textures, Glasco added, like satin with a matte jersey fabric.

The lengths of these dresses are short, short and shorter.

"Mini dresses with different colored tights and pumps or flats is very popular," O'Dell said.

If covered legs are a must, Glasco suggests wearing dark, crisp denim and heels or thick tights with ankle boots or knee boots. This way legs are covered and the attention is drawn upward toward the face.

Metallics are even a trend in formalwear for men.

"We're starting to see people steer away from basic black," said Travis Langemeier, general manager of Best Styles Formalwear, 200 S. 19th St. "Calvin Klein introduced a silver or platinum tux for 2008 and I think it will be the next big thing."

Sticking with attention-grabbing styles, beaded and sequined dresses are another trend for fall.

Glasco said dresses that are beaded around the neck or entirely covered with sequins are very popular and look great for a special evening. The key is to keep everything else simple.

"Choose a clutch that is simple in either patent leather or a bright solid," Glasco said.

Layering is also important to give a dress more options. Adding a T-shirt or turtleneck underneath gives the dress a more casual look and provides warmth, O'Dell said. Throw jackets, or swingy jackets with only one or two buttons, are great for tossing on over a formal dress but can also be worn with jeans.

Finally, tuxedo-style shirts and jackets borrowed from the boys' section are a great option if subdued dressing is more appealing.

"You can wear a ruffled top with a little sequined vest and long black trousers," Glasco said. "It's a hot look that is a bit dressed down."

The final touch to complete the outfit is a couple of long necklaces. Anything with pendants, charms and novelty items, Glasco said.

Men, too, can accessorize their formal outfits.

"There is an emphasis on cuff links in the industry," Langemeier said. "Guys are actually buying cuff links to match their outfits. This gives it a more upscale look."

Whichever trend is most appealing this season, remember that the most important factor is comfort.

"There are many trends, and some look good on you and some don't," O'Dell said. "Anyone can rock an outfit if you know your body and choose something that compliments it."

ashleypritchard@dailynebraskan.com