NEW YORK, Sep 16, 2003/ FW/ --- These days, fashion extends to everything -- from our bottled water and makeup, to our sunglasses and perfume.

Even mobile phones help define our style. That's why mobile phone makers are trying harder than ever to not only make phones high-tech, but also high fashion.

There is more to making designer phones than it sounds. There are special teams that work together to design cool, trendy, hot phones.

They work with color consultants and other designers to think about what's up and coming, what's trendy and what's going to happen in the future.

Even the latest sounds and phone shell designs (flip-top or slide?) are agonized over -- all in the name of style.

Many people feel that their phone is a statement of who they are, their individuality, personality and even a status symbol.

There are an estimated 100 million mobile phone subscribers in the United States -- with the average user purchasing a new mobile phone every 18 months.

So as you plan your wardrobe for the seasons ahead, remember, you're never fully dressed until you also accessorize the right mobile phone.