Fashion

You snooze you lose

So this week's already shaping up to make quite a stir. In the news recently was the announcement that the LA Times had launched a new style section. Oh goody! I love newspaper style sections. When I was at university in London we were obsessed with the Guardian fashion pages and the Sunday Times Style magazine. So much so, that I even did one of my largest projects on the idea that these would do as well, if not better, over here in the States. Ha! I knew it. I even wrote to the LA Times fashion critic for help.

The paper's new section is called Image and will be online and in the paper weekly starting in September. It'll have a column by said fashion critic on global intersection of fashion and pop culture (interesting) and other key features like LA Style files, which chronicles hip Angelinos throughout the years and The Waitlist, an in-depth guide of new stores etc.

Watch for the goods.

In other news, Helena Christensen, 1990s super model and Danish beauty, is jumping on the designing fashion bandwagon. Already the co-owner with Leif Sigerson of hip, bric-a-brac NYC boutique, Butik, she and her partner are now moving onto what they know best, fashion at its finest. Touted as less trendy than practical, the clothing will have a distinctly Scandinavian feel. Wearability is at the top, with sensible grey trousers, a flattering coat and pretty tops. Just as Sarah Jessica Parker announces her line, and Kate Moss does TopShop in London, do have Helena. I wonder who'll do it best?

Finally, this week marks the inaugural of New York's Fashion in Film Festival. What a glorious idea. If you're in or around New York you must go and check it out. I only wish I was able to. The festival runs over two weekends and will conclude on March 25. The purpose is to explore the relationship between film and fashion with the help of moviemakers, curators and academics. Besides the talks you'll also have films - great ones like William Klein's Who are You, Peggy Maggoo? And Alfred Hitchcock's Rear Window. Wear your Prada, get your popcorn and go.

Bon Voyage

So I'm preparing for a trip. We leave in a few days for Miami and I thought I'd do some preliminary packing. And as always when I start my packing, I wonder where to begin. I've written articles on this before (honeymoon packing, somewhat the same,) and I've traveled so many times it should be second nature. But I still have those moments where I feel like I'm floundering. What do I bring! Where do I begin?

I know there are checklists galore on packing. I could type it into my search engine and fine hoards of how to's and must do's. I admit I find it silly to plan - I'm talking checklist and pen - but then I also find it silly to sit on the floor for an hour wondering what to do with the mess I've created. Piles of things lay strewn about waiting for a place in my luggage. Will these shoes go with enough to warrant the space? Do I really need jeans if I'm going to Florida?

So yes, I've looked at the help guides. I am now checking things off. The list is in my head but it's all the same. For the first time I'm actually thinking ahead. And absorbing. And in doing this I'm starting a new list - one that's actually succinct, well thought out and highly successful. Follow my tips (and fun fashion choices) and you'll have a level of success that's both informal and worthwhile.

Tip 1: Make a plan. Will this be the type of vacation where you'll throw something on and be happy with it? Or will you need various styles for an assortment of casual and formal events? Making a plan will assure that you have the right things in mind when you're sorting through your closet. When I make my plan it's usually on a piece of scrap paper. I usually take five minutes and jot down anything I can think of that I need. For you I suggest this: a handy journal that keeps track of your travel. Along with records of where you go and what you do, you'll have items of clothing you brought packaged neatly in the book for the next time you visit that place or one like it.

Tip 2: Iron. I suggest you iron whatever you need to before you go. Many websites suggest packing your clothing with tissue. Stuff it in the sleeves and pack everything else in a carry on bag they say. Yeah right. I say iron before and put it on top. Most ironing boards in hotels are crap so it's wise to do it prior. I mean who really has the time to iron on holiday when there is so much else to do?

Tip 3: What to bring. This is the fun part. If you're going for longer than a few days you'll need a larger suitcase. Once you figure that out you'll be pleased to realize you have ample room for necessities and even a little left over for fun stuff. Start with the necessities. Let's say, for kicks, you're going to Miami. Pack lots of bathing suits. Especially these in fun patterns and prints. That's a must. If you plan on going to the pool every day you'll need at least three so that when one is drying you'll have another. And the third? What if you plan on going to the spa or hot tub? Yes, three at least!

Flips flops, sandals and a fun pair of comfortable heels are imperative. I love the Charlize air pump from Cole Haan. They're shoes utilize the Nike Air technology and are super comfortable and chic. I tell all the brides I know to buy them up. You will not be sorry, I promise. Next up, beach dresses. I suggest more than enough for each day. So if you're going for a week pack at least nine. I know, you're gasping. But they roll up easily and again, if they get wet from the beach you'll have plenty of dry ones. No one likes to wear a sandy, oily beach dress. If you need to buy a few go with something inexpensive like these from Target.

Finally, everything else. I'm talking colorful jewelry to dress up your neutrals. A great black dress. A handful of tanks. And most important, items you know you don't need but love, like a soft linen wrap or large beach hat. Keeping it fun will make all the difference. That and a little sunscreen.

Back Track

I wanted to continue to provide updates on recent blogs I’ve written. A few weeks back I went on contemporary collection frenzy, realizing as I wrote that I couldn’t end it there. The market is shifting at such a fast pace, that there’s always something new to report. For instance, Neiman Marcus has announced that it’s opened its third Cusp store in Georgetown. Cusp is the company’s new stand-alone boutique that surrounds the concept of less high-end designer and more approachable, unique fashion. Style savvy women take note! With its contemporary collections as the main source of merchandise, it’s a haven for reasonably priced items that beg for buying. Major brands represented are BCBG, Seven For All Mankind and Diane von Furstenberg – very similar to Barney’s Co-Op in selection and price range.

Specialty shops have been popping up all over the place in recent years. Labels like Ralph Lauren, The Gap, Abercrombie and Fitch and J. Crew have added new outposts to their companies. There is a growing desire to expand on proven successes - namely the parent company - while providing consumers with additional avenues to buy their recognizable brands.

Ralph Lauren’s Rugby is one example. A recently launched line and freestanding store, it was created with an edgier, more price-conscious customer in mind. And according to Ralph Lauren’s media reps, the line is something you’ll want to keep and wear again and again. I.e. not too trendy. It certainly draws upon the preppy culture of Polo, the parent company’s success; with it’s casual and suit dressing, bold colors and vintage touches.

Another established brand, J. Crew, has entered the offshoot market. Madewell 1937 - a line that hopes to rival Old Navy with 20% to 30% lower prices then parent company J. Crew - has a more casual aesthetic and feel. Hoodies, tunics, tanks and jeans are popular along with trendier patterns, fabrics and shapes. There is a definite J. Crew feel only younger and more hip. They currently have stores in Dallas, Austin and Santa Monica with plans to open more soon.

It seems that popular labels are reaching out to a larger audience and mostly with more affordable clothing. Which is great for a price conscious consumer. After all, we’d rather lose the price than the trend factor. And that seems to only be growing.

Water Proof

Today I woke up to pounding rain sputtering on my balcony. It was beautiful. I love the sound of rain, especially in the spring when the air is soft and light. I also adore the idea of dressing for the wet weather. It’s weird, I know, but raincoats, rain boots, umbrellas, rain hats and even galoshes, are a source of wardrobe delight.

I love a bit history attached to my fashion. When I lived in London we visited the Museum of Costume in Bath and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The exhibits were so large and inviting. And always quite intriguing. To wear the layers, volume and fabrics from those days, well, let’s just say we’re lucky we’ve been a part of modern technology. Which leads me to this little ditty. Did you know that the raincoat (er, Macintosh) was invented in 1823? The rubberized cloth came about during a time of exploration. People were jumping on ships to explore the world and required a trusty coat to brave the elements. The idea seems so grand, doesn’t it? Petite, well-to-do women huddled in oversized Macintosh raincoats. So unobtrusively glamorous.

Today’s women, however, require a lot more style and punch. A sleek shape and smart fit do wonders for the modern figure. I mean why should raincoats, boots, galoshes, hats and umbrellas only come oversized and in black? Color is important!

So as I was browsing resources on the web a link to ehow.com jumped out. Ten tips on how to buy a raincoat. Interesting, I thought to myself as I clicked on the site. So far the only rule I’d been following was to make sure the gear be both fashionable and hip, not plastic or shiny. After all, what’s on the outside is always one’s first impression. Still, I read the tips and low and behold, one really stood out. See below.

Step two: Consider the warmth of the raincoat and the climate of the place where you'll wear it most often. Although some parkas are both warm and waterproof, you may only need a light raincoat to go over clothing.

Ah. Yes. The fit. That’s something I noticed yesterday when I pulled on my orange Philosophy by Alberta Ferretti trench. It’s still late winter/early spring so sweaters, cardigans and suit jackets are necessary. My raincoat, though fantastic, is cut for a snug fit. And layers don’t always work. So yes, ehow.com is right. Make sure whatever you buy goes through the layer test so as to ensure a comfortable fit.

Which brings me to my list. At the very top of it is this lipstick red, patent slicker from Burberry. Talk about statement style. This is so hot it’s got to be worn everyday. Imagine it paired with dark, raw denim – like these Acne action jeans - and black puma’s. Divine. And just in time for weekend jaunts to damp cities like London, Seattle and San Francisco.

I’m also envisioning my walks to work in this Gsus hooded red rain jacket. Gosh, I must be into red. A tad more casual than the aforementioned, it’s also a lot cheaper at $205.

For rain accessories you can’t beat the mix of wellies and galoshes on zappos.com. I especially love the Gabriella Rocha striped rain boots in neutral cream/navy and the Sperry wedge boots – a style I’ve always coveted. The range of hats is also endless. Floppy versions are fun and whimsical, as are canvas, but my favorite has to be this reversible rain hat from shopintuition.com. The colors are juicy and the style sweet. Believe me, with this hat and those boots you’ll be the talk of a very wet town.

Style Sport

I was thinking about my cousin today. She’s a top athlete at an Ivy League school and is always running from class to practice in sweats and slippers. Honestly, I don’t know how these kids can stay focused when they’re dressed so comfortably. All I’d want to do is curl up on a couch and take a nap.

In any event, it got me to thinking about sportswear. And I don’t mean sportswear like casual designer-label sportswear. Rather hip, fashionable clothes that sports enthusiasts can wear both on and off the field.

As with any type of sportswear, function is key. The fabrics need to be light and breathable, while the design both casual and comfortable. Each item should showcase the personality of the person in manner that suggests the clothing is fun but also wearable.

It seems that labels and companies are answering this need for practical clothing. In recent news Adidas announced that Stella McCartney would be adding dance clothing to her collection. By Fall 2007 the apparel and footwear will be available in colors and textures that are both edgy and appealing. This makes sense, as the evolving trend in dance is projected to grow even more. With shows like Dancing with the Stars and MTV’s own “Moves” produced by Jennifer Lopez, the exercise and art form is creating quite an impact. Add sportswear to this mix and you’ve got a fashion trend worth watching.

Remember the Italian activewear line Ellesse? A while back the company collaborated with Brit design duo Eley Kishimoto to create a collection of tennis themed clothing so fashionable it even had it’s own runway show on the London catwalk. The clothes incorporated style, pattern and color in a friendly yet functional way. In fact, they were so wearable and smart that women everywhere were buying them, even non-tennis devotees.

Boxing is another sport jumping on the clothing bandwagon. Everlast is trying to make it’s mark by pairing up with Norma Kamali – a designer credited with inventing the sleeping bag coat, a collection of styles created from actual silk parachutes, high heeled sneakers, and multi-use poly jersey clothing that can be worn in up to thirty variations per design. The line is sold online at boutiques like Girlshop and Shopbop and at department stores like Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom’s. Made out of comfortable and relaxed materials like polyester and spandex, the line is available in a variety of styles including dresses, leggings, skirts and jackets. That’s something every athlete or active woman could use.

Finally, it’s no secret that models know fashion. That’s why it’s not surprising that Christy Turlington is designing yoga wear for Puma. Her shoes, sandals, tops, pants, dresses, bags and accessories are available in soft, calm colors and easy shapes that suggest the woman wearing them can go from studio to store without changing a single thing. Now that’s what I call function!

Accessorize this

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, accessories are the most important part of any person’s clothing repertoire. Well besides good fitting jeans. They can add pops of color to neutrals (think turquoise or 1970s bakelite), a touch of demureness to work wear (pearls, pearls, pearls) or a bit of bling for punch (diamonds anyone?). A quintessential pick-me-up, they’re an affordable way (think costume) to maximize the potential of any existing outfit.

With spring just around the corner, I’m currently de-hibernating enough to cruise the shops for a few essential items. I’m buying dresses in my favorite cuts for spring and summer, large textured metallic totes for all my work gear, cute flats in non-traditional prints and patterns, and the all-important, requisite staple, jewelry.

I have to admit for the past few months I’ve been a little low key with regards to wearing and buying jewelry. This might be attributed to having overdone the necklace trend a few seasons back. As I’ve recently realized, I have a bathroom overflowing with pendants, chains, plastic, metal, beaded, hoped and woven necklaces. They’re still fun on occasion but frankly, its time to move on.

Which is where bangles, cuffs and large rings come in. While these styles tend to come and go throughout the various seasons, this spring’s crop of new designs stands out as decidedly modern and fresh. These days we have large, bold statement pieces at their finest instead of the usual hodgepodge of styles and sizes that end up overpowering your outfit anyway.

So here’s what I suggest: Peach, blue and green rings at least the size of a quarter and set in gold. Large, Lucite bangles worn high on the forearm. Enamel cuffs with embellished motifs. And small, thin bangles layered on both wrists in a variety of tones and textures.

Now, if designer labels are more your thing then have no fear. It was announced recently that famed evening label Badgley Mischka would be launching a line of haute, costume jewelry for their A-list socialite and celebrity clientele. The collection will debut this fall and includes pieces for day, evening and bridal. Expect cuff bracelets, bib necklaces and duster earrings in materials like hematite, pyrite and topaz. There are even baroque pearls a la Miriam Haskell, a noted vintage designer and every vintage jewelry collector’s favorite. Statement jewelry is going to be everywhere. Now the real question is, what do you buy first?

Two timing

Collaborations between designers and companies are all the rage right now so it's no surprise indie label Heatherette has teamed up with Puma to introduce a new, limited edition handbag. The PUMA Lydia Bag - inspired by the designers' muse, Lydia Hearst, who launched the original French 77 Racket Bag in 2006 - is currently available at The PUMA Black Stores in New York City and will also be available in Tokyo beginning in May.

This latest pairing is only one of the many successes associated with this type of coupling - a movement that has certainly proven its longevity. In the past, the likes of Karl Lagerfeld, Missoni and Kate Spade have collaborated with both artists and labels to create a "special" item or line. Likewise, companies such as Coach, Puma and even General Motors have called upon designers and artists to team up on new accessories, products and brands.

Back in the late nineties, collaborations were viewed as a movement within the sports industry. Players would team up with companies like Nike and Reebok, create a shoe or line of active wear, which they'd then promote. The attention surrounding these pairings was positive and continued to catch the attention of retails giants who eventually started incorporating the same ideas into their own labels and lines.

Today, there are so many successful pairings it's hard to single out any as being the best-of-the-best. But there are definitely standouts, which to me suggest even greater things to come. Here are a few to check out…

A girl's gotta love her shoes.

Catherine Malandrino and French ballet shoe company Repetto: Kate Moss cites these flats as her favorite to wear with jeans and tees and I couldn't agree more. I adore their sophisticated Parisian style and fantastic metallic colors, which will make any casual outfit POP.

Marc Jacobs and Vans: Skater shoes are incredibly cute when worn with straight-leg jeans and hoodies. If that's not your thing than at least appreciate the ingenuity of having a crossword puzzle - one of Jacob's newest patterns - on your feet.

Y3 + Adidas: When it comes a comfy trainer, who doesn't love a little edge? The ongoing collaboration between Yohji Yamamoto and Adidas, which began in 2002, is sleek, neutral and minimal. A word of warning though: colors do not apply.

Stella McCartney and Adidas: This shoemaker knows how to capitalize on good relationships. Stella's beautiful aesthetic is further accentuated with her snazzy sports performance collection. From clothes and shoes to yoga mats and racket bags, there's something for everyone in bright cheerful colors.

These clothes aren't bad either.

H&M and Madonna: H & M pairs up with designers all the time, but the addition of hipster Madge to it's brood of talent is something worth mentioning. The star's tack suits make comfort cool and the prices aren't bad either.

Kate Moss and Topshop: She may not be a designer in the true sense of the world but she is the face of fashion. UK chain Topshop couldn't agree more. In May, Moss's new collection will debut with Studio 54-inspired bikinis, party dresses, tuxedo jackets and shorts. The collection will begin with 80 pieces and will be sold in Topshop franchises around the world.

Target and Proenza Schouler, Paul & Joe (my favorite), Luella Bartley, Tara Jarmon, Behnaz Sarafpour, and Libertine - who is rumored to be next on list. Target has proven its genius with the release of its designer collections. The prices, colors, patterns, cuts and overall sensibility are entirely personal and that's what's truly great. I think every girl will agree that these clothes are a fantastic way to experience the label without blowing through an entire months' rent. Now if only they'd do menswear.

End result

I mustn’t forget to touch on Paris fashion week and the finale of fall 2007. The Paris shows received a resounding set of applause this year, with buyers and editors ohhing and ahhing over the plethora of wonderful offerings. The buzz on the street surrounds key trends like minimalism-futurism, androgyny, dark romance, chunky knits, leather, and techno fabrics. Styles that are sticking around: waist detail with belts and ties, volume (more!) and 1980s revival.

Hmm. Doesn’t this all sound familiar? I guess at this point fashion is becoming more of a historical reference with fresh accents. Clothing is continually being re-visited in new and unique ways. Which is cool, don’t get me wrong, but I’m starting to wonder if the wave of the future belongs to textile design and fabric technology because of the modern advances associated with them. I guess we’ll see. In any event, I still get excited thinking about fall (my favorite season for fashion and home) and all the delicious styles that await.

Here’s a breakdown of my favorites from France…

Martin Grant: An amazing talent and mastermind when it comes to cut and structure, this man is the king of coats. His fall collection is a celebration of silhouettes, both moving and timeless. I’m obsessed with the grape hue he’s interspersed throughout his neutrals. Rich, vibrant colors aren’t practical but they certainly are fun.

YSL: If you’re after a stunning black dress this season, then this is your collection. Stefano Pilati takes modern notes and new proportions (something we haven’t been seeing a lot of) and delivers them via short tulip hems, top volume, and a distinctive array of embellishments. It’s a forward-looking collection with a mature feeling; one both young and old will cheer for.

Chloe: Always a favorite of mine, this season Chloe introduces a new designer, Paulo Melim Andersson to the mix. The collection shouts and screams just like the funny-angry girl the designer created it for. And I like that. Gone are the vintage-inspired 1960 and 1970s pieces and in their place are vibrant oranges and blacks. A trend for sure, but not your typical Chloe. Sheaths are popular along with pattern, and I suspect customers will embrace the ease once they’ve gotten over the shock of something new.

Cacharel: I’ve always love Cacharel for it’s brilliant patterns and quirky pieces. And the direction this season is steady. Blue makes it’s appearance again in the form of shapeless dresses that are anything but frumpy. The clothes and the colors are moody, but the effect is lifting as belts and dainty patterns keep the look youthful and flirty.

Accessories. If you take a peek at the shows other star, the shoes, you’ll find that the styles have a direct punch. Platforms are tall, curved and stacked to the nine’s. Materials are huge. The feeling is a mix of 1980s wackiness with1990s decadence. There are metal studs, embellishments and chains. Color is bright and bold and delivered in shades of pink, purple, blue and yellow. It’ll take a bit of practice mixing the sizes and colors, but then that’s half the fun of fashion anyway.

Musings

I'm in tizzy over the new collection for Helmut Lang. Barneys Co-Op recently re-launched the line-which is under new design direction-along with Shopbop.com. The collection, which includes tank dresses in semi-see through cotton, skinny pants with detailed seems and deconstructed jackets made out of crinkly fabric, oozes a pristine, modern simplicity which is both wearable and fashion-forward.

The history behind Helmut Lang-who's known in fashion circles to be an enigma of sorts-is long and drawn out. During his heyday-when he helmed his namesake line-reverent insiders applauded him. Customers who desired a muted aesthetic chock full of black, grey and white, were loyal along with top international editors and buyers.

Then in January 2005 things changed. Lang sold his label to Prada, who then dismantled the brand and sold it to a Tokyo-based company who also owns the fashion brand Theory. Lang resigned a few months after this purchase and the line fell into the hands of Michael and Nicole Colovos, founders of the denim line Habitual. The reason for this new direction? It's an attempt at making the line more accessible and the price-point more affordable.

Loyalists might cower at the thought of the typically straight leg jeans being altered to fit a more curvaceous woman but it makes sense, as today's consumer isn't necessarily a size 2. Add in the changes in cut and style and you've got clothing that now fits perfectly into the contemporary category. It's an obvious evolution.

So while this collection draws upon Lang's earlier designs it also incorporates modern, sellable features. Minimalism and the extreme attention to detail is still a major feature, but with a nod to today's consumers, it's now incorporated in a way that speaks to a wider audience.

Book beat

As any visiting guest can attest, my apartment is strewn with so many fashion glossaries, source books, design guides and oversized picture compilations it’s a wonder I ever leave. I mean the reading material is over flowing!

Which is the perfect reason to buy some more.

These days, fashion books are not only a great indulgence (some can run well over $100) but also a surprisingly colorful home accessory. The covers are glossy, the topics are glamorous, and if you take a moment to study the content, you’ll be amazed at how interesting it can actually be.

When I was attending school in England we had Colin McDowell as a visiting speaker. McDowell—a fashion writer and commentator who’s written 16 books on the likes of Manolo, Galliano and Ralph Lauren—was full of opinions and stories on the fashion world, which is his first and possibly only passion. I distinctly remember him saying that they key to publishing successful fashion books was getting a good interview. That and the pictures. While the writing must engage, the pictures must tell the story. Which makes sense as in today’s world image is everything.

So what are some of the best fashion books right now?

Assouline’s assortment of titles attaches a gritty, human element to the world of fashion. I especially love Africa is in Style, which offers a look at how African culture affects the catwalk collections in New York, Paris, Italy and London. The book, which includes archival photos, illustrations and photographs, gives African designers a voice as they continue to contribute to the new ideals shaping the world of fashion.

Currently I’m obsessed with style related books, which deal more with movements in fashion then a single designer. One in particular I like is Rebel Style. I peeked through this at Club Monaco a while back while I was waiting for a friend and couldn’t put it down! I have an affinity for old-time movie stars—which is probably part of the draw—but I’m equally intrigued by this transition from pre-World War II style to post World War II. In addition to this book, I also like Audrey Style, by Pamela Keogh Clarke, is another good re-cap of old Hollywood. It was one of the first fashion books I read from front to back. I remember I grabbed it before a flight and just as I was touching down, I finished it. What a fascinating account of Audrey Hepburn’s life! She was irrevocably attached to fashion and admired by so many. If you’re into era-fashion, you’ll really enjoy either of these.

Another favorite publisher of mine is Phaidon Press. I like how they combine contemporary culture with fashion. Colin McDowell has a few published by them, one in particular, Fashion Today, is a brilliant anthology of all things fashion related. It starts with Dior’s New Look in 1947, which as every fashion observer knows, was the start of something big.

A final favorite is Sample, which I first discovered at Urban Outfitters and later bought on a whim. The cover, which uses accordion pleats in pure white to suggest the neutrality of the subject, offers an artistic component along with the words. The book compiles information on 100 fashion designers, in alphabetical order, in two-page spreads. It’s an encyclopedia of sorts, with photographs, sketches, drawings and computer renderings to illustrate each designer’s past and present work.

Color-coded

It's nearly impossible to ignore the importance of color during these gloomy winter months. A known mood enhancer, the subject of color is so intriguing it even warrants it's own set of psychological studies. Add to this the impact of trends and forecasts and you're left with an interesting and unique subject.

When dissecting spring's top colors it's smart to start with blue. After all it's been said by many color specialists that blue is the most popular color out there. With the 80s trend thriving, not to mention home décor lines like Ralph Lauren and West Elm showcasing the shade for spring, it's not wonder the blue-especially the vibrant, electric tones-is fast proving a season staple.

When looking through the shows I can't help but embrace this shade. In the world of psychology blue is the opposite of red. Where red is fiery and emotionally intense, blue is serene and peaceful. Which is why I can imagine throwing on something like this polka dot beauty by Marc Jacobs after a long week of work. Its simple shape and cheerful pattern is ideal for any Friday night gathering.

On the heels of blue comes yellow. With its sunshine reference and cheerful sensibility, yellow is often referred to as uplifting. We've seen it on the red carpet-most recently by Naomi Watts who wore a buttercup Escada to the Oscars-and also on the runway. And who could forget Biba's s/s 2007 show with it's smattering of lemon yellow. Ciao Bella! Ms. Freud knows how to mix yellow into a palette of rich colors for a fresh and optimistic feel.

Another potential hit for spring is khaki. Often associated with unimaginative co-eds and blasé uniforms, this season it's surprisingly chic. A neutral powerhouse, it's appeared on nearly every spring runway, most notably Reem Acra, BCBG and Lanvin. I suggest viewing the shade as a neutral canvas and then pairing it with bold, bright prints and patterns.

Finally, though not a "color" in exact terms, black is as important in fashion as say, white. Did you know that black denotes authority and power? With nearly every woman owning at least one black suit and dress, this connotation makes a lot of sense. Because in a world where interviews, meetings and cocktail hours run our day-to-day lives, black provides an instantaneous and comfortable option that's both easy and sophisticated.