MUST HAVES FOR FALL 2008

Fellow Fashionistas, I am well aware that it is not yet March, and I have just listed the must-haves for Spring 2008 (see below), but I have just viewed a lion's share of the runway shows from Milan, London, Paris and New York [if you are so inclined, newyorkmagazine.com has excellent coverage of the tents in Bryant Park and other fashion meccas], and I feel compelled to begin my shopping list. Not only can we keep an eye out for end-of-season deals that fit the bill, but we can assess our closets and determine what to pull out of cold storage (hi, leg warmers!) and what to buy.

> Winter White, particularly in layers. You can even throw in some nudes here. Sweater dressing is definitely still IN. See interpretations by Blugirl, Tuleh & Verrier, above. Note that beige, light blue and white look SO chic together!

> Anything plaid. And don’t be afraid to mix & match. See photo at left of the D&G show, where tartan tights were paired with a dress of similar checks in different colors. Brazen, unabashed, commendable.

> A textured or furry dress, preferably cinched with a wide belt. There are amazing contributions here by Burberry Prorsum, inter alia

> A floor-length coat or some other interesting topper. See Aquascutum's full-skirted version, left.

> Crazy patterned tights. They are cheaper and thinner than pants, and they allow you the freedom to wear ridiculously short minidresses with wild abandon. I am absolutely in love with stockingirl.com. The site is delicious and the selection is incredible. Pucci-esque and Versace-inspired sheers and opaques, even thigh-highs, in over 50 patterns. Wow!

> An interesting, possible outre, hat. Practically every designer sent at least one gamine gal down the runway with a gorgeous cloche or woolen cap of some sort.

> A gorgeous blouse. Something complex and/or sheer fits the bill. See, for example, Temperley and Balenciaga, below.

> More Florals! Yes, the flower has staying power. Flora dominated the runway for Spring, and it is carrying over into the Fall Collections, particularly in Paris. Check out Christian Dior's plantings...