Fall 2007 Review

If you've managed to catch the headlines at all in the last few weeks, you know that Valentino is retiring after 45 years and that Ralph Lauren just celebrated his 40th anniversary. So how have these giants managed to endure for so long when so many fashion houses come and go like trendy restaurants?

By regularly "re-inventing" classic styles that look good on many women. Yes, they sometimes include those outrageous costume pieces to garner media attention (like Lauren's homage to "My Fair Lady" at his runway show over the weekend), but by and large, their clothes can be worn by a variety of body shapes and for several seasons.

That's what you should aim for in your own closet: simple lines that flatter your figure and that can be worn for several years. It's the most efficient way to look good yet still stay in budget.

So as the temperatures dip here in the Mid-Atlantic and stores burst with the new season's offerings, let's take a look at what's hot and what's not for Fall 2007.

If you live south of the equator and are just heading into spring, you might want to review my choices for Spring 2007,

As the weather starts to change and all the new season catalogs land with a "thud" on your doorstep, it's time review your closet to ensure it's ready for the coming season.

You'll want to maintain a good inventory of classic staples that you can mix and match, of course, but you may also want to add a few new pieces to freshen up your look. So what should you spring for?

Remember that since NO ONE looks great in EVERY style, regardless of her age, weight, or bank account, you need to think carefully about the items you choose. Opt for pieces that flatter your figure, camouflage your trouble spots, and work well with your lifestyle.

Menswear

Want to be "one of the guys" but still look like a girl? Then tap your inner Katherine Hepburn with some of the menswear looks that are popular this season. Borrow the credibility-enhancing collars, jackets, and vests from the guys without ever letting them forget you're a woman.

LaRedoute.com

MetroStyle.com

Dresses

The dress revolution that started last spring carries into fall with easy, eye-catching dresses. Dress them up with scarves or belts; dress them down with more casual accessories. But do grab a couple this season so you can still look great -- even on those hectic mornings when you have trouble getting out the door.

JessicaLondon.com

Chadwicks.com

Wide Pants

For those of us who had trouble pulling off the leggings look the first time around back in the '80's, here's a figure-flattering alternative: the wide leg pant. It makes heavier thighs look longer and thinner and nicely balances wide hips. Be careful of cuffed styles, though, particularly if you have short legs. Cuffs visually shorten the leg.

JessicaLondon.com

LaRedoute.com

Black and White and Red All Over

Black and white remains popular year after year because it's simple and easy and always looks good. Add a little red to the mix for the cooler months and you have an eye-catching combo. Other easy looks? Try all black with a red bag, all white with a black bag, all red with a black bag, etc.

MetroStyle.com

Roamans.com

Jewel Tones

Like shiny ornaments on a Christmas tree, jewel tones and cool weather go hand-in-hand. Emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red - well, you get the idea. Want a little more luxury? Try adding some emeralds, sapphires, and rubies to your jewelry box for years and years of jewel tone style!

Roamans.com

JessicaLondon.com

Metallics

Cool gray, shimmering gold, burnished bronze - if it's metallic, it's hot this season. You'll find it in apparel, accessories, home furnishings and more, so if you like this look, you'll enjoy this trend. Just be sure to stick with tones that flatter your skin tone for a flattering, luminescent look.

JessicaLondon.com

LaRedoute.com

Great Outerwear

Great coats return this season with interesting shapes, fabrics, and colors. Pick up pieces that work for your lifestyle (casual, dressy, etc.) or fill in those holes in your outerwear wardrobe. You'll find a nice selection of cool weather hats this year as well, and lots of gloves in varying lengths.

Chadwicks.com

MetroStyle.com

Shiny Bags

Shiny bags echo the metallic trend and you'll find glossy and patent styles galore. Bags are available in all sizes, fabrics, and styles to tempt your palette, but remember that neutral colors in classic shapes offer the most versatility.

Chadwicks.com

LaRedoute.com

Wide Belts

Wide belts continue to be popular, and will continue to be so well into spring. They can add definition to waists or hips and finish an ensemble with a flourish. But they're not for everyone. If you have a large waist, stomach, or bustline, stick with smaller, 1" belts or opt for no belt at all.

LaRedoute.com

MetroStyle.com

Boots

Boots have been popular for several years and continue to be so this year. Wear them with dresses, skirts, and gauchos for a polished, cool-weather look. For something a bit more fashion-forward, take those ankle boots you always wear with pants and pair them with a skirt or dress. Tie the look together with textured or colored tights.

MetroStyle.com

Chadwicks.com

So those are my top picks for the season. Add a handful of pieces that compliment your body shape and lifestyle and you can look up-to-the minute whatever your age, shape, size, or budget.