Dan's Papers - September 12, 2008

It's time unpack our collection of sweaters and cozy outerwear to gear up for that favorite time of year. Fall! Light sweaters and medium weight jackets are the perfect solution. Leather, cashmere, angora and wool blends make their seasonal debut while designers showcase their hottest creations for the fall 2008 season.

Of course we would like to buy everything we see, but for most of us, that notion is unrealistic. Making choices that will add that extra pop to what we already have in our closet is the best advice I can offer. There are simple ways to gradually adjust from summer to fall with a few select pieces. Wraps, pashminas and capes are great options and should be part of every woman's wardrobe. Medium weight items allow for layering and can be paired with shells, turtlenecks or a jersey knit long sleeve tee.

There are many designers who have created their collections around women "on- the-go" and one of the most well-known designers to accomplish this is none other than Donna Karan. DKNY's (Donna Karan New York) fall 2008 collection is chock full of rich colors and fabrics that cannot be missed. Sweaters and cozys are quite popular in her collection and a few standouts include a merino wool long sleeve cozy that can be worn more than a dozen different ways ($295 and also available in silk), wool sweater coat ($345, available in camel), marble tweed jacket ( $475, available in amber multi). This jacket looks great with a mustard color top paired with a solid pair of pants or skirt and tights. DKNY's wool wrap dress ($295, available in jasper) is outstanding when paired with a pair of leather boots. DKNY is an affordable collection that offers women the opportunity to look professional while feeling comfortable. Her clothing can be worn from office to dinner or out on the town.

Another hot trend this season is a leather biker/bomber jacket, and taking the lead is Dolce and Gabbana. D&G's leather bomber jacket ($3,695) is made of tan lamb leather with front zip flap pockets and zippered cuffs and is the ideal outfit when paired with jeans or D&G's riding leather pants ($1,095).

Military-inspired jackets are also making a big splash for fall. Trendy items can be costly; however there are many styles available that are more affordable. Urban Outfitters (urbanoutfitters.com) is one example. For those young ladies heading back to college or starting their senior year of high school, Urban Outfitters offers a selection of jackets including styles such as BDG equestrian blazer ($88), BDG military jacket ($78) and Loves Peace legacy blazer ($104).

Sweaters come in all shapes and sizes this season and cashmere has always been one of my favorites. Locally, Christopher Fischer offers a selection of luxurious classic cashmere sweaters, cardigans, wraps and turtlenecks in addition to many other items. The key to Christopher Fischer's success is quality. Fischer only designs his classic styles with superior cashmere. A classic cashmere turtleneck or cardigan can be paired with a pair of jeans or wool skirt for a complete fall look.

As you can see, there are many options for fall outerwear and what I like to call "cozy wear." Remember to bundle up!