New York Fashion Week and fall '07 essentials

09/19/07 - OK, so let's get serious. I know you are all probably worried about stocking up on the latest Juicy Couture velour tracksuits and Abercrombie hoodies, but what we should all be focusing on are the spring 2008 collections.Now most of you are probably sitting there, rolling your eyes, letting out a big sigh, and thinking to yourself "What is this girl talking about?" But honestly, you can never start shopping for a season too early!

For those of you who live under a fashion rock, New York Fashion Week began on Sept. 5, and ended just last Wednesday, Sept. 12.

All of the big names were there, including Michael Kors, BCBG, Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs, Nicole Miller, Zac Posen, Oscar de la Renta and Rock & Republic.

So here comes the good stuff: What was walking down those runways?

BCBG (which happened to be one of my favorite collections), featured a number of ensembles with a belted-waist (meaning a belt was wrapped around the waist just above the hip).

The collection was mostly made-up of white, off-white, light grey and light hues of pink, blue and green silk charmuse fabrics- all of which are perfect for those breezy spring evenings.

Hemlines seem to have found a happy medium between being super-long and super-short, now falling around the knee area. Michael Kors' selection really showcases this new trend for the spring, as well as incorporating floral, striped and nautical inspired designs into the mix.

Nicole Miller took a different approach to spring fashion though, and kept her color palate pretty neutral. For all of you earth-tone fashionistas out there, Nicole Miller is now your new best friend.

With pantsuits in beige, black, and white; printed tops with basic Bermuda shorts; skinny-belted dresses with knee length trenches; and Miller's signature printed flowing dresses, you can't really go wrong finding basic staples for your wardrobe within the collection.

Now for all you denim fans, have no fear, I have not forgotten about you. Levis Warhol has really outdone itself this year. That faded, bleach spotted look was seen multiple times throughout the show. Models also sported a variety of zipper embossed capri-length jeans (This was seen on both male and female models. So guys, you better start shopping too!).

Since I know that some of you could just care less about the spring, considering the fact that it is almost October and the weather is getting chillier, I've compiled a list of your top ten necessities for the month of September as a little present for all of you. Get ready to go shopping girls (and guys for that matter)!



Mary Jane Pumps - You can never go wrong with a cute pair of Mary Janes. This season they can be found in a wide array of colors, heel-heights and fabrics!

Metallic Clutches - For all of those crazy nights out at the club or even for a fancy dinner on a Saturday night, metallic clutches in silver, pewter, black and gold will really make you stand out from the crowd.

Bright Colors - Dresses, tops, and even jackets have all been transformed from the typical fall foliage colors into bright, eye catching colors of yellow, orange, pink and purple. If you don't think you can pull something like this off in a jacket or dress, start small by trying a cute button down shirt in a bright color and work your way up the fashion ladder.

Fur, Feathers and Fringe - As seen on the runway, and also in your local department stores, fur, feathers and fringe have made yet another comeback. From tops to dresses to overcoats, this triple threat of style will surely be a hot topic this fall season.

Bows - Clearly, bows are not just for little girls anymore. Many designers have toyed with this particular look this season and are ready for you test them out!

Chunky Necklaces - Jewelry is the perfect way to make a fashion statement without getting too crazy. A chunky necklace is eye-catching. And, like celebrities Drew Barrymore and Sarah Jessica Parker (who have been seen wearing this fashion) you too can look stunning this fall.

Animal Print - Play with animal prints a lot this season. Even though they do not look like replicas of an actual wild animal's fur, they can really be a lot of fun to mess with when looking for a new way to spice up your wardrobe.

Gem Stones - Whether it be a headband, a cuff bracelet, a handbag or even a cute little halter dress, gem stones of all sizes and colors are the "it" fashion statement of the moment.

Patent Leather - Patent leather accents are huge this season. From red patent leather stilettos to accent pockets on tweed trousers, this fashion forward trend will be everywhere you look this fall.

Wide Leg Denim Trousers - Want to look sexy but still look put together? Try wide leg denim trousers. They are perfect for a lunch date, a presentation or even a trip to the mall!



So there you go, your fashion guide for the next month. Think you can handle all of that information? Take it one step at a time and please, DO NOT rock all of those fashion tips at once. Because if you do, you'll have a warrant out for you by the fashion police.