Remember when 'duck' boots were a Darien, Connecticut style staple? Remember when they were worn with curduroy pants, puffer vests and Fair Aisle sweaters? Well, neither do I, but that is what I am told. Fast forward to today and the steadfast staple of yesteryear is making a very chic come back. Designers from DSquared to Michael Kors, to a few mass retailers, injected the shoe/bootie with a much needed style cache with improved upper materials, playful color combinations (think tartan and tweed), and a fashionista's best friend, a high heel. However, some design detail echos of the past are still visible within the new incarnations, the rubber sole, the lace-up and hook-and-eye closures, along with the constrast stitching. Oooooh la la!

If you have ever been to Paris, there is a good chance that you have heard of or shopped at Comptoir des Cotonniers, the mother-daughter owned fashion brand which appeals to the chic mother-daughter customer alike. Known as an edgier version of its French cousin, Agnes B, the store carries welcomed finds like off-center zip cardigans, silk tunics, jacquard jumpers, straight leg denim pieces and dresses slung low on the hips. For girls, there are sweetly mature pieces, like velvet floral skirts, denim overall jumpers, as well as pleated cotton dresses. The store itself has an overall country-chic feel with its whitewashed floors, white shelving and vases of lilies strewn through out. The line also has slight influences from China, Bulgaria, India, and Portugal, countries where many of the pieces are manufactured. The draw to the line is its relaxed yet polished and versatile apparel, which can take you to and from the office, off to meet friends, or out for a playdate. Well, depending on your age of course.

Volume is back, and it’s reached new heights with the full skirt. Don’t be afraid, there are tame versions out there, like this GF Ferre skirt. It falls just above the knee, has pleats and looks smashing with a placketed blouse, cardigan and booties.