This rain is unbelievable! My husband and I went out to dinner last night, sat on the patio and froze! We actually moved inside for coffee and dessert, only  minutes before the rain fell. Now that the Fall 09 Trend Report is out, * I have something to add. If you live in one of these abnormally rainy states this fall and you can only afford to invest in one new accessory for, I suggest A MINI UMBRELLA! I know I sound flip, but this isn't just any umbrella. First it's animal print-very cool, a top trend for fall. And it is tiny, about 8" and light, about 6.5 oz. I bought this umbrella for my trip to Europe in the spring of '08 and  absolutely love it. Needless to say, the cost per wear has been reduced to pennies! The best thing about this umbrella, which is available at Saks Fifth Avenue**, is that unless you carry a really small handbag, you can keep it with you at all times. It's so light you won't even notice it. Oh, and it comes with a little cover, so that you can keep it reigned in and compact. Best of all, you won't (Read more...)

I'm always astounded how quickly time flies between my spring and fall trend reports, but here we are again! As with the last few seasons, we're continuing to see many classic garments. However, this fall designers have gotten extra creative with colors, textures and best of all, the way they've combined classics with trendier pieces. Since I specialize in professional dress, I always hesitate to use the word "trend." Adopting trends doesn't necessarily deem you trendy. Rather, think of it as new ways of updating your look to keep things fresh! The following is just a sampling of what awaits you in the stores. 

Colors

Purple-from amethyst to deep plum. Red-mostly a tomato red, great for blondes and brunettes with warm coloring. More colors include russet, (brown with a tinge of red,) burnt orange and of course, black.

Lace

From heavy lace garments to lace trims. If a lace blouse seems like too much for you, consider wearing it under a jacket or sweater with only the collar and cuffs peeking out.

Belts

Although all widths of belts remain popular, the newest widths are approximately 2 inches and very skinny. Look for (Read more...)