Move over black, saunter away navy, the grays have it!

Come one come all, this new neutral and all of its incarnations were
seen all over the Fall 2007 runways. It is a color often relegated to
more somber, moody fare but has reinvented itself into lighter, more
inviting colors. I for one will be dreaming in the monochromatic
splendor of pewter, graphite, charcoal, dove, asphalt, silver and pearl.

Layer and contrast many hues or choose one for an accent color and/or
accessory. My favorite choice of the moment is Cole Haan’s Village Soft
Triple Zip Satchel in Gunmetal.

It is said that European women, especially the French, are some of the
world’s most chic women. Having just returned from both Milan and
Paris, I can attest to this fact.

The French take pride in all that they do, especially their manner of
dress. Regardless of how early I would leave for showroom appointments
with the Couture buyers, one could not blink an eye without seeing
perfectly turned out specimens. Scarves tied around the neck just so, fashionable clothing which appeared to have lept straight from the pages
of Vogue and the to die for designer shoes. At any given moment you
could spot gazelles parading about in Proenza Schouler riding caps,
Nina Ricci off the shoulder sweater tunics, black leggings and Chloe
boots. I spotted touches of Balenciaga Menswear, Dries Van Noten
jackets, Jill Sander tops and Galliano sky high heels. The looks were
more of a natural flow, never a forced 'look at my style' ethos. The
only drawback? They know just how fabulous they look!

The Fall 2007 season is upon us and we must seize the day, or at the
very least the trends of the season. It is a vast and varied list
spanning many categories, so do take notes.

Inject power into your closet with bold, cinematic colors of navy,
fuschia, emerald isle green and orange – the new black. Experience a
cultural exchange with Dr. Zhivago-esque pieces of fur, bejeweled or
studded embellishments. Slip into body-conscious, lady-like dresses
made of crepe, knit jersey or refined wool. Dare to wear them in either
sleeveless, strapless, cap or full sleeve variations, I certainly will.

Suit up with menswear inspired pieces, such as “Le Smoking” tuxedo
jackets over silk crepe pants, a tailored suit, a crisp button up white
shirt and oxford shoes. Define the waist (insert collective sigh of
relief here that the looser silhouette is deflating) with the latest
belt offerings: corsets, thin, obi-style, wide patent leather, embossed
skins, etc. Warm up in statement coats: modern trenches, fur trim,
funnel or wrap collars, glossy textures. Enliven any outfit with
interesting fabric innovations of heat infused wool, glazed mohair,
sherbert-hued shag and plastic (yes, I said plastic). Get a leg up with
cashmere, silken wool and brushed cotton leggings or tights. Spin an
eclectic mix of English prep school flourishes and military touches,
with logos and crests on jackets, polo shirts, vests and pullovers.
Sizzle-in-the-20’s, lithe sheath silhouettes in silk or satin, and top
it off with cloche chapeau sass. Shine with patent leather’s many
incarnations or display urban moxie with motorcycle inspired designs –
a little Mad Max anyone?

Does any one else wonder about the ongoing appeal of actress/model
Sienna Miller? I ask this because, a few months ago she allegedly
released a statement that she is taking a break from the public because
she is over exposed. She is everywhere!! There are the Tod’s ad
campaign, Pepe Jeans ad campaign, the Twenty8Twelve clothing line with
her sister, break? Not!

The self-exiled actress/model has set the rumor mills into overdrive
yet again with speculation that she and friend (um, right ...) Sean P.
Diddy Combs are an item. Rumors of sightings around New York City
having lunches and/or cozy dinners, of sipping champagne aboard his
yacht, partying and leaving together in Ibizia,has not helped to abate
the vehemently denied stories.

If Ms. Miller is truly seeking some peace and quiet out of the
spotlight, why be associated with one of the biggest media zealots?
Though he is rumored to be engaging, charming and attentive - well to
everyone except baby mama Kim Porter - perhaps Sienna should learn from
Jennifer Lopez. Ms. Lopez, who a few years and many husbands ago, was
swept up into the hyperbole that is Diddy, learned the hard way that
getting too close to his sun can get you publicly burned.

The sudden change in weather has me just a little bit giddy and full of
anticipation for what it means to my fall wardrobe. Finally I can go
shopping and fill my closet with all the wonderful styles and trends
that have been appearing in fashion magazines since late spring. The
first stop on the trend train is the belt – the lady-like,
waist-emphasizing accessory of the moment. This style is one that I and
countless others will be emulating.

Be best dressed with a sleek, tailored, sleeveless or cap sleeve A-line
dress cinched at the waist with a thin exotic skin, embossed belt. Give
instant chic a try by wearing an open light cardigan or transitional
wool coat over a shift dress loosely belted with a thin leather
version. Be relaxed and sexy by pairing an obi-style sash cum belt over
your funnel collar coat. Release your urban warrior in a chunky sweater
over leggings with a wide leather tie-front belt or its ornate, studded
cousin. And, finally, do recreate Dita Von Teese’s signature curves
with a semi-corset belt that fits neatly under the bust, atop a crisp
white shirt neatly tucked into a high-waisted, knee-length skirt.