Fall Fashion 2009

In doing our part for Fashion's Night Out on September 10th, I joined some local fashion lovers for the Newark Film Festival's screening of Valentino: The Last Emperor last Thursday night. What fun! The evening started with JoJami Tyler hosting cocktails and hors d'oeuvres at a local restaurant before moving to the nearby cinema for the show.

Feel the need to see OTHER beautiful designer clothes? Fashion week New York is just winding down; you can look, learn, and obsess over the latest American designers in Mercedes-Benz's fashion week rundown.

For those of you south of the equator just moving into spring, take a look at what's showing at New York fashion week for spring 2010 or what I recommended for Spring Fashion 2009 here in The Clothing Chronicles.

While it's always fun to see what's new each fashion season, it's important to put some thought into each new purchase you make to avoid wasting money buying things you won't wear. That's particularly true this year, with the recession still in full swing.

So how can you look good AND save money? By taking stock of your closet and making a thorough assessment. Make your existing wardrobe work for you as much as possible BEFORE adding to your collection.

Black & White

So simple, so classic, so timeless. Start with black and white and call it an ensemble, or add a trendy accessory for an interesting variation.

Black and white Houndstooth jacket
MetroStyle

New York & Co

Chic Neutrals

Wear them together, pair them with colors or patterns, and get your money's worth for these wardrobe workhorses.

MetroStyle

New York & Co

Something Red

Nothing says strong and sassy like red. Try a red dress, a red bag, or red lips - just not all at once - to turn heads and get your Scarlett on.

Chadwicks

ING
Macys

Strong Shoulders

It's the 40's! No, it's the 80's! Whatever you call it, it's time to draw attention to the shoulders again with either an exaggerated sleeve or lapel. . . or by showing a little skin.

MetroStyle

Just Cavalli
Zappos

Cool Jackets

If you have a "thing" for jackets, you're going to LOVE what's available this season. From leather jackets and swing coats to dusters and caplets, you'll be able to top those basics with an eye-popping look.

Roamans

Michael Kors
Macys

Ruffled Tops

The poet/romantic/peasant/bohemian blouse has been popular for years now, and it can add some drama to a simple skirt or pant - or even turn a ho-hum suit into a romantic ensemble.

BCBG Max Azria
Macys

More ruffles
New York & Co

Statement Necklaces

Want an easy way to draw attention to your face and away from trouble spots elsewhere? Try a beautiful, interesting necklace. Pair it with a simple dress or top for further contrast and emphasis.

JeGem

Daco Milano
Forzieri

Wide Belts

Wide belts can be eye-catching and dramatic, but let me be frank: they're not for everyone. If you have a small waist and long torso, try a wide belt. But if you have a thick waist, short torso, or carry weight in your tummy area, stay away - it will make you look heavier than you are.

Chadwicks

New York & Co

Simple Bags

Of-the-moment bags were fun while they lasted, but hard to sustain in today's economy. Try a simple style instead that you can wear with everything until you wear it out.

Dooney & Burke
Macys

9 West
Zappos

Great Boots

A great pair of boots can be as eye-catching as a great necklace or jacket. Just be sure to find a comfortable pair that works with much of your wardrobe so you can get your money's worth out of them.

Chadwicks

Or, in true '80's style, tuck your pants legs into your boots
New York & Co

There you have it - my top picks of the season. Yes, it's a little restrained, but now is not the time to splurge. Pick and choose your purchases carefully so you can look great AND stay in budget.