Dan's Papers - August 15, 2008

Summer is winding down and it is time to check out the new fall fashions. Each season offers varied colors, fabrics and accessories, and this pre-fall 2008 season is boasting hues of gray, plaids and an array of neutral colors, including chocolate brown and shades of dark green.

Re-defining your wardrobe each season is a must. Mixing pieces you already have with a few new trendy options is a great way to explore new styles. Let's face it, some of us can't afford to buy everything new each year, but we do like to make an investment in items that can be considered transitional and classic. A simple "black dress," and several black skirts and pants can go a long way. Sleeveless dresses can be worn with turtlenecks or a cute cardigan. Pencil skirts and wide-leg trousers paired with silky full blouses or belted soft knits are in.

Yes, it's time to break out the sweater collection and this season, sweaters of all kinds are hugely popular. Designers show off their fall lines months prior and trends follow suit. This season's runway displayed blouses with big bows by designers like Bill Blass and Proenza Schouler and lots of oversized knits. Cable knits and off-the-shoulder cashmere sweaters created in big bulky softness are the look.

Rosettes were prominently used for fall. Herve Leger, Vera Wang and Marchesa incorporated rosettes as well as draped fleuers in their collections. Log on to Bergdorfs or Saks Fifth Avenue for full color pictures of handbags by Valentino. This beautiful handbag collection displays a flower theme with choices like the Fleur Satchel (available in black and red -$1,495), Jardin Rose Framed Duffel (available in black and berry-$2,395), Petal Dome Bag (available in red-$2,495) or the Flower Top Satchel (available in wine- $1,495).

This fall you will also see a lot of '80s flashbacks. Stiletto boots adorned with lots of metal buttons, slouchy sweaters paired with skinny fitted jeans are part of this years fall fashion. The layered look matched with a long cardigan, turtleneck and leggings or long belted sweater vests are hot. Check out TSE Cashmere's jacquard cardigan ($750) and wool pants ($495.)

Gray, black and forest-green have played a major role. Jildor's (Southampton), Shoe-in (East Hampton and Westhampton Beach) and Saks Fifth Avenue (Southampton) offer a great collection of fall boots. Hot boot designs by Jimmy Choo, Chanel, Fendi, Tory Burch and Prada are popular and a variety of short/ankle, long (mid-calf and knee length) flat and high-heeled styles are available as part of each collection. Picks include Christian Louboutin's ankle boots ($1,030) or Bourge Zeppa Suede Boots (available in chocolate or black for $1,375.)

Showing off those curves? Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent and Prada is offer collections reminiscent of 40s fashion with peplum skirts and short jackets. Long jackets and full-length skirts are also back by popular demand. Donna Karan is known for longer skirts and sweaters that are soft and comfy for the fall.

Feathers and fur are accented on many designers, including collections by Gucci, Etro, Burberry and Ralph Lauren. Christopher Fischer (located in East Hampton, Southampton and Manhattan) offers a wide assortment of classic elegant cashmere sweaters.

Brooks Brothers (Southampton) also offers an abundance of luxurious cashmere sweaters, tailored tweed jackets and trousers and outerwear pieces. Check out their wrap shawl cardigan (available in charcoal or navy) priced at $378 or elegant Astrakhan jacket (made of Astrakhan lamb fur- available in black) for $2,998.

There are so many options for setting new trends and adding an extra pop to your new fall wardrobe. Wide belts, shawls and scarves are great pieces that can be mixed in with a variety of items.

The most important thing to always remember is to be creative and have fun designing your new fall wardrobe. Happy Shopping!