Sound Styles Soundings

O F F   T H E   C U F F
So What’s Up For 2013?
Sound Styles Soundings
  
Well, I know it is a new year because I had to write 2013 on a recent check, I’m busy calculating a year end inventory figure for our bookkeeper and I’m reviewing 2012 from both a personal and business perspective.  I’m also thinking a lot about what I’d like 2013 to bring.  I figure I might as well put that out there as early in the year as possible as we all know how time can fly.

When I think back on 2012 I’m ever so thankful for being able to weather the economic storm and for the determination I have.  I’m also thankful that I work and live in caring, supportive communities and that I thoroughly enjoy what I do and who I do it with.  Working with all of you, my dear mom and incredible crew is more than I could ask for.  I am so pleased that Sound Styles can give us all so much and I hope for that to continue.

So, what’s up for 2013?    Well, I have several small goals in mind personally and several in mind for our store.  But there is one larger goal that fits for both and  that is to be truly open to and accepting of change.
I actually want to leave room for it.  I want to wonder about what might lie around the corner.  I don’t want to be so busy always orchestrating the next move that I don’t notice all that is going on around me.  What opportunities will arise? What new adventures lie ahead?  I’m reading “Undaunted Courage” about Meriwether Lewis, Thomas Jefferson and the opening of the American West. Wow! Talk about adventure and courage and inspiration. Those guys were real explorers.

However, and closer to home, I’ve already had customers ask about what’s coming for Spring in terms of fashion.  Actually it is already both arriving and selling.  Interestingly enough, the first fashions that arrive for an upcoming season are often quite seasonless, especially for those of us here in the NW.  For spring we’re seeing lots of black and white, lots of prints, texture mixing, feminine details like ruffles, lace and applique, flat front pull-on colored jeans (oh really?), bright colors like  turquoise, red, purple, orange and fuchsia.  Prints are being combined and so are contrasting colors.  Skirt lengths are across the board. The look is bright and bold.

Furthermore, suitcase packing is easier than ever before.  We noticed this as we were helping someone pack for a Mexico trip the other day.  Fabrics are soft and easy care and colors definitely don’t have to match.  It’s hard to mess up.  Just don’t pack too much.

So Happy New Year!  Here’s to leaving room for healthy change, new adventure, a little lace and beautiful colors along the way. A trip to Mexico wouldn’t be bad either!
  
  
Off the Cuff is a periodic casual review of fashion styles, attitudes and trends by Jenny, owner of Sound Styles in Edmonds, WA