Fashions have been tweaked into dynamic styles this year

Everything from clothing to accessories have been given a special touch.
SCRIPPS HOWARD
Colors, fabrics and construction are the basis of modern, comfortable clothing and accessories this season.
Leopard is the key animal print; herringbone shows up in smart work-to-evening pieces; and black-and white-ensembles are dynamic and daring in any combination.
While jeans get cigarette skinny, slacks are wider and roomier, from high-waisted, wide-legged pants in herringbone and other menswear-inspired patterns to jumpers and gauchos that update '70s styles with a hip new attitude.
Accessories go beyond mere accents, adding exclamation points to fashion statements. The hottest are leather-trimmed sweater handbags, big structured leather or leather doctor bags, colorful long gloves, multiple necklaces, a single bold and chunky bangle bracelet.
With a wink and a nod to belle & eacute;poque and Russian aristocrats, brocade, metallic threading and velvet add luxury to capes, suitings, blazers, blouses and even footwear.
Dressy flats, platform pumps and Mary Janes with high heels make inroads into footwear, while boots are ankle-length, knee-length, flat-soled, cuffed.
And evenings and special occasions are the domain of little, but dramatic, black dresses, entrance-making red gowns and glamorous frocks in a plethora of purples.