Ladies' Clothing Always Buttons Right Over Left, Men's Clothing Left Over Right. How Has This Come About?

NOOKS AND CRANNIES

Ladies' clothing always buttons right over left, men's clothing left over right. How has this come about?

UNTIL the courts rule otherwise on the grounds of sexual discrimination, tailors should continue to button men's clothing left over right. Mine says that men often need to unbutton or unzip in a hurry and the vast majority are right-handed.

Max Engel, Northampton.

The 35 Best Women's Vacation Outfit Ideas For Any Getaway In 2023

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We're all about the vacation fashion styles this year, especially as warm temps ensue and we're readying our flattering bikinis, wear-all-day rompers and adorable white dresses.

It's all the season for linen, the hallmark of an effortless and easy-breezy ensemble. Whether you're cruising to the Caribbean or jet-setting to the West Coast, rest assured you'll be ready to go — in style, obviously — with our careful research of summertime dressing.

Consider this the ultimate vacation edit. The New York Post Shopping team hand-picked our favorite selections for women, from shorts to skirts. Plus, you'll want to take note of all the stunning sandals we're glossing over, including espadrilles.

Top options include Amazon and Lulus, but we have other boutique-style options for you to peruse. Even better, we didn't just stop at the clothing. You'll want to add some of our favorite jewelry, bags and sunglasses to your cart before you checkout.

To best prepare yourself for your long-awaited vacay, check out our guides to the best luggage brands and long-flight essentials to make your voyage a bit more enjoyable. Oh, and you won't want to forego a belt bag — the cherry on top.

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Best Vacation Dresses 1. Pink Queen Cut-Out Midi Dress, $38 Amazon

We're beyond obsessed with the Pink Queen Cut-Out Midi Dress — the perfect Amazon dress under $50 that boasts a cut-out style and subtly sexy look. More, it'll look wonderful with one of the best designer clutches we rounded up.

2. Tommy Bahama Joyful Blooms Floral Print Maxi Dress, $188 Bloomingdale's

Meet the summertime dress we have in our closets and are still glossing over: the Tommy Bahama Joyful Blooms Floral Print Maxi Dress. Though a splurge, it'll make a statement, for sure, and will pair well with your best wedge sandals.

3. Petal & Pup Peta Dress, $59 Petal & Pup

Take a page from our playbook (rather, our personal closets), with the Petal & Pup Peta Dress. We recently wore this pattern out and about on the weekend and received plenty of compliments and 'where did you get that?' In short, say less and order.

4. Joyfunear Tropical Print Maxi Dress, $20 SHEIN

Hello, resort wear! We're about to head on a summertime cruise with the Joyfunear Tropical Print Maxi Dress — and we can't believe it's just $20. With its slit and strapless design, it'll photograph nicely as well.

For more options, check out our guide to the best maxi dresses.

5. ASTR The Label Primrose Dress, $178 Revolve

Meet the dress you'll wear to your next outdoor function. ASTR The Label's Primrose Dress is the sweetest wedding guest dress you'll wear (or, a date night dress with some feminine flair). From its tiered, ruffled design to that stunning floral charm, you'll be golden.

Best Vacation Tops 1. Bluetime Off-Shoulder Chiffon Blouse, $27 Amazon

Versatile and available in a rainbow of colors, the Bluetime Off-Shoulder Chiffon Blouse is yours for the taking, especially for less than $30. With your favorite pair of jeans and some nude heels, you have yourself an outfit.

2. J.Crew Amber Linen Top, $56, original price: $80 J.Crew

We're ready for a picnic in the J.Crew Amber Linen Top. Not only does it have a relaxed yet vibrant charm to it but it pairs well with the brand's matching Essential Italian Viscose-Blend Pant ($298). Cue the warm weather, to say the least.

3. Lulus Island Experience Tie-Strap Bustier Crop Top, $45 Lulus

Perfect for your next resort vacation, the Lulus Island Experience Tie-Strap Bustier Crop Top is beyond compare — and less than $50. Shop the matching Island Experience Maxi Skirt ($62) to match and voilà, you have a totally Instagrammable head-to-toe outfit.

4. Maeve Ribbed Tank, $48 Anthropologie

Simple yet necessary in your wardrobe, the Maeve Ribbed Tank is the perfect summertime top that'll match with all of your bottoms. It's available in a few color varieties at Anthropologie, and we recommend grabbing it before it's gone.

5. Miduo Loose Sleeveless Tank, $26 Amazon

We can't stop glossing over the miduo Loose Sleeveless Tank, available in dozens of patterns and colors that are all so stunning, we want to grab them all. For less than $30 apiece, they're the perfect toss-ons to pair with your denim shorts.

Best Vacation Shorts 1. Madewell Denim Pull-On Paperbag Utility Shorts, $65 Madewell

Speaking of denim shorts, grab the Madewell Denim Pull-On Paperbag Utility Shorts for a comfortable and flattering fit this season. We love its traditional charm and quality detailing, so much so that we have it in our carts.

For more options, check out our guide to the best paperbag shorts.

2. Abercrombie Ultra High-Rise Tailored Short, $65 Abercrombie

Abercrombie is the Queen of Tailored Pants, so we're not at all surprised that its Ultra High-Rise Tailored Short has come to serve looks. Available in a few colors, it's that put-together, modest pair of shorts everyone needs.

3. Magic Linen High-Waisted Linen Shorts, $69 Magic Linen

Similar in look to Abercrombie's shorts, the Magic Linen High-Waisted Linen Shorts have more of a relaxed fit than polished, though still look put-together with a feel-good cami. We're ready to take on the hot, sweltering days with this fab find.

4. Lulus Sweeter than Ever Eyelet Lace High-Waisted Shorts, $52 Lulus

The Lulus Sweeter than Ever Eyelet Lace High-Waisted Shorts has a special place on this list, simply because it can instantly be transformed into a matching set with its matching Sweeter than Ever Eyelet Lace Crop Top ($56). Not only is it hanging up in our closets (we had to) but it looks as good as it's made.

5. Petal & Pup Ronaldi Shorts, $59 Petal & Pup

Take a stroll on the boardwalk with the Petal & Pup Ronaldi Shorts. We love this relaxed-fit, pinstriped design, especially for the flattering waistband. With the perfect white tee, you'll look like you just stepped out of a beach style magazine.

Best Vacation Skirts 1. Zesica A-Line Maxi Skirt with Pockets, $37 Amazon

Simply run to this stunning maxi skirt on Amazon — the perfect little tiered number that's clad with pockets (#bonus!) For less than $40, you'll appreciate all of the patterns it comes in, too.

2. Express High-Waisted Printed Mini Sweater Skirt, $49 Express

We nearly fell off of our chairs when we came across the Express High-Waisted Printed Mini Sweater Skirt. Just shy of $50, it's the perfect nod to vacation-style wear we've seen, thanks to its allover neutral palm print overlay.

3. Petal & Pup Deaville Skirt, $79 Petal & Pup

We adore the Petal & Pup Deaville Skirt for its citrus-inspired pattern and stunning, flowy fit. For less than $100, you'll want to spin and twirl your way to every occasion on your calendar with this easy-breezy fit.

4. Lulus Trancoso Two-Piece Maxi Dress, $67 Lulus

Spoiler alert: we've worn the Lulus Trancoso Two-Piece Maxi Dress on a cruise last year and it was the perfect summertime option that's comfortable, looks good and fit for warmer temps. For less than $75, you'll want to grab it in all the colors it comes in.

5. Abercrombie Linen-Blend High-Slit Maxi Skirt, $70 Abercrombie

Pick up this bohemian-style skirt from Abercrombie ahead of summer for a garden-inspired piece you'll want to wear on repeat. The Linen-Blend High-Slit Maxi Skirt looks great with sandals, is simple to dress up or down and will be one of your sweetest purchases yet.

Best Vacation Swimsuits 1. Cupshe One-Piece Swimsuit, $31 Amazon

For a put-together look, grab the Cupshe One-Piece Swimsuit. It's less than $35 on Amazon, comes in a few colors and is flattering on any body type.

For more options, check out our guide to the best one-piece swimsuits.

2. Lulus Sun-Kissed Sweetie Ribbed Tie-Front Underwire Bikini Top, $44 Lulus

For the lover of all things pink, shop the Lulus Sun-Kissed Sweetie Ribbed Tie-Front Underwire Bikini Top — along with its matching bottoms — ahead of your next vacation. We love its simplistic look and gorgeous pastel color, especially.

3. SHEIN Textured Bikini Set, $9 SHEIN

For just $9, grab a flattering ribbed bikini to wear on every pool day imaginable this summer. It comes in a few colors, has a comfortable scoop-neck design and is one of the easiest purchases you'll make.

4. Zimmermann Ginger Balconette Bikini Top, $180 Revolve

Though a splurge, the Zimmermann Ginger Balconette Bikini Top — paired with the matching bottoms — is an elevated upgrade from the rest of the swimwear in your closet. It's giving fine China, but pool edition.

5. Beach Riot Celine One-Piece, $79, original price: $158 Victoria's Secret

This racetrack-inspired bathing suit has our hearts and, right now, it's 50% off at Victoria's Secret. We adore this unique cut-out design and sloped neckline, especially.

Best Vacation Shoes 1. Dream Pairs Open-Toe Espadrille Sandals, $44 Amazon

Pick up these top-rated Amazon wedges for less than $50 to wear to every summertime occasion on your calendar. The Dream Pairs Open-Toe Espadrille Sandals are a top-tier option for their ability to be dressed up or down. Trust us on this one.

2. SKIMS Molded Sandal, $68 SKIMS

Yes, Kim K's brand SKIMS has sandals up for grabs (who knew?) and we love how versatile they are to wear around water. Consider these a poolside staple, for sure.

3. Tory Burch Leather Miller Sandal, $198 Tory Burch

To add some elevation to your look, snag a pair of designer sandals. Tory Burch's Leather Miller Sandal have been acclaimed for years, thanks to its signature logo imprint and smooth-to-the-touch design. Plus, they make a great gift.

4. Dolce Vita Penny Sandal, $80, original price: $125 DSW

Dolce Vita is having a moment, and we're going to let it ride. Shop the brand's Penny Sandal, available exclusively at DSW. We love this wicker-inspired texture that would look dynamite with a linen dress.

5. Everlane The Day Crossover Sandal, $85 Everlane

Low-to-the-ground and exceptionally made, Everlane's The Day Crossover Sandal is a fantastic purchase to make for less than $100. They're the perfect slip-ons, too, and add much to your outfit without much thought.

Best Vacation Accessories 1. Petit moments Multi Stone Earrings, $25 Revolve

Have you met a more gorgeous pair of hanging earrings? The petit moments Multi Stone Earrings are just $25 and match a variety of summertime looks — especially vacation-inspired looks. Whether worn with a beach-y top or a midi dress, rest assured they'll tie the whole look together.

2. Mini Flower & Rhinestone Box Bag, $30 SHEIN

Meet the bag we wear to nearly every formal occasion and the accessory behind every compliment. This Mini Flower & Rhinestone Box Bag is just $30 but looks designer. Say yes and order this one ahead of your next vacation, stat.

3. QUAY Australia All-In Retro Aviator Sunglasses, $75 to $85 QUAY Australia

Need a new pair of sunglasses? One of our favorite destinations for a hot new pair is QUAY Australia, the brand behind hundreds of well-made styles. Its best-selling pair, the All-in-One Retro Aviator Sunglasses, is the perfect add-to-cart summertime staple.

4. BTB Los Angeles Bri Beaded Rattan Top-Handle Bag, $165 Neiman Marcus

Have you met a cuter purse? The BTB Los Angeles Bri Beaded Rattan Top-Handle Bag may be a splurge, but simply screams vacation. Plus, its beaded straps and wicker-like charm are too cute to ignore.

5. Brinker & Eliza All Summer Long Bracelet, $98 Maisonette

Sally sold seashells at the seashore, and the Brinker & Eliza All Summer Long Bracelet is up for grabs. Shop this adorable beach-inspired accessory that will instantly make any outfit more coastal. Plus, we love its gold hardware.

Check out the New York Post Shopping section for more content.

The One Color Every Woman Should Wear To Work

getty

Dopamine dressing - the notion that wearing colorful clothes makes you (and others!) happy - was seen all over this week's New York Fashion Week. Designers like Ulla Johnson, Helmut Lang and Sergio Hudson sent an explosion of color down the runway.

Sergio Hudson Spring 2024 Ready To Wear Runway Show

WWD via Getty Images

This association is not news to me. Thirty years on television taught me one thing when it comes to dressing for maximum impact - color is always the new black. "Color means absolutely everything when it comes to dressing women," says style expert and author George Brescia. "It not only affects the way women feel about themselves, but also the way they are perceived by others."

Color Is A Power Statement

Color is evocative. This past summer it was impossible not to smile as hordes of men and women dressed in all shades of head-to-toe pink as the Barbiecore trend peaked. It evoked feelings of happiness and nostalgia.

The Balmain x Barbie collection is displayed at Neiman Marcus in Beverly Hills, Calif., on ... [+] Wednesday, July 19, 2023.

Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

The color experts at Pantone get it. Each year they come out with their Color of the Year. This year's winner was Viva Magenta, a "va-va-voom red" that Pantone describes as brave, fearless, joyous and optimistic. Who wouldn't want to feel that way as they step out on stage?

Whether women are stepping onto a stage or in front of a Zoom, the goal is not to blend in but to be seen. This is particularly important if you're going to be on a stage or in a meeting with a group of men in dark suits or presenting against a dark backdrop.

Hungryroot's Ben McKean, Kendo Brands' (LVMH) Sapna Parikh, Lily AI's Ahmed Naiem and LFX Venture ... [+] Partner's Janie Yu at the 2023 Retail Influencer CEO Forum, Featuring The Z Suite in New York City

The Retail Influencer Network

And color doesn't always have to be bright. Today's top stylists are putting women in a range of colors from vibrant jewel tones to muted earth tones to soothing neutrals. Dressing intentionally and in color lets others know you are self-assured and willing to take risks.

"​​For many years, women in the workplace were dressing to blend in, and that often meant reflecting the classic conservative suiting of their male counterparts," says Deirdre Quinn. The co-founder and CEO of Lafayette 148 says that today, more and more women are harnessing their femininity as power and using color to stand out. "Color makes a statement, it commands attention. And powerful, accomplished women are sending that exact message by choosing color, from public appearances and events to a return to the office."

Actor Kristen Bell styled by Nicole Chavez wears #L148Spring23 Pink Madder silk-linen suit

Lafayette 148, Instagram Live Your Life In Color Red

According to Pantone and the industry's top stylists, red is the "it" color this year and something every woman should work into their wardrobe. "It's like the world got the memo that we want to show up in color," says Lindsey Bernay. "And this year's color is red." And every woman should try it.

The luxury stylist with Saks says the key to finding a red that looks powerful but not aggressive is to go with berry reds or deep bordeaux. "They are both soft reds that pair back nicely to black," she says. Brescia agrees. "Red is a power color. It signifies confidence."

Even traditionally minimalist brand Theory is getting in on the fun, featuring a collection of red pieces with the tag, "Red Alert: A Daring Commitment to Standing Out Among The Crowd."

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - AUGUST 18: Jessica Alba attends the Fearless Fund Third Annual Fearless Venture ... [+] Capital Summit

WireImage Pink

Pink is strong runner up as it's a versatile color; there is a shade of pink that looks good with every skin tone and hair color. If you like bright pink, consider a power suit from brands like J. McLaughlin or Argent. The juxtaposition of the bold color and powerful silhouette sends the message that you are comfortable with who you are and are ready to take a seat at the table.

Or, if bright pink isn't your thing, Brescia suggests going with more of a powder pink. "Go into a board room in a soft pink Victoria Beckham dress and everyone in the room will pay attention to you!"

J. McLaughlin's Mercia Blazer and Newman Pants in Berry

J. McLaughlin Yellow

I'm also a fan of yellow for women of all complexions. Similar to pink, yellow can be worn in shades from a soft butter yellow to a bright neon and can pair nicely with black, navy or other neutrals. The color conveys brightness, energy and warmth. Wearing yellow will put you in a pleasant mood as well as those around you.

Neutrals

Women forget that neutrals, like cream, white and beige, are colors too. You can blend different neutrals or go head-to-toe sleek in a monochromatic look. "Many people are more scared of neutrals than colors," says Bernay, but they shouldn't be.

Brescia says neutrals - like sand, cream and taupe - are soothing and can actually draw people to you. He says women with blonde hair in particular look best in camels and yellows with gold jewelry – those tones illuminate the skin and eyes and look best in front of the camera.

Ralph Lauren Double-Breasted Wool-Blend Blazer

Ralph Lauren Black

Most women wear black frequently because it's easy and, we've been told, slimming. The problem is, "when you wear black every day, you're saying to the world, 'I want to hide or conceal my body,'" says Bernay.

So, the solution is moderation. When worn from time to time, black has a place in every woman's wardrobe. "Foundational pieces, like the little black dress, can serve as an anchor for almost any look," shares fashion stylist Stacey Mayesh, who says black can make women feel powerful.

So how can women wear black effectively? Mayesh recommends "stripping away adornment, which puts the focus back on the woman, not on her clothing. This can be essential to commanding respect in the workplace." And Brescia suggests the way to make black look "chic and fabulous" is to mix textures like cashmere with organza or leather. "Otherwise," he says, "black can make you look old - it can look funereal and draining."

Where To Begin

For those who have always shied away from color, the transition to a more vibrant wardrobe may take time. Bernay suggests wearing head-to-toe black for a day. Take mental notes about how your outfit makes you feel, especially when compared to other women around you glowing with color.

Also, choose one color that is outside your comfort zone and begin to pair it with safe pieces, like a familiar black pant or a comfortable pair of jeans. This small change will help ease the transition to living a new life in color.

It's easy to generalize about colors and their associated effects on mood and confidence, but it really boils down to personal associations. Wear whatever color makes YOU feel your best. Because when you are happy, you will exude the confidence you need to command the respect you deserve.

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