We may be beating the shorts jumper to death, but it is honestly one of the hottest pieces/trends going strong right now, but it is also so very, very, very, easy to get wrong. Here, these two fashionistas actually rocked their silk shorts jumpers on the red carpet last night. Take style note of the button down style with the cuffed shorts and sleeves (cuffs are never easy) as well as the vibrant jewel tones of the printed scoop neck jumper. Well, done!

Goodness! Everywhere I've turned for the past few days (from the red carpet to the streets), green--especially Kelly green--has been popping up on fashionistas from head to toe. I'm finding it mixed into dresses and by itself as a one all over color on shoes and bags, not sure if you are loving this trend or not but I'm certainly in!

Jumpsuits are having a moment, this we know. But could you have predicted the mash-up of the strapless jumpsuit and hammer pants, as seen on this otherwise fab-looking lady in Ibiza? The knee-length crotch is giving me painful fashion flashbacks. [photos courtesy Style.com.]

Ice cream, free NYC concerts and great dresses are some of my top reasons why I absolutely love the summer! Case in point, this lovely strapless dress features an eye popping peek-a-boo detail on its full skirt and a braid trim on the corset style top. Loves it!

I defer to the Japanese for all things design-related, and that includes summer fashion. And lately, I've seen more than a few hip Portland ladies rocking the kimono and I'm kinda digging it! Perfect for warm weather, but dressy enough for that after-work cocktail party, these kimonos (the one pictured here is by the local designer Alicia Wood) are flattering, classy, and represent the best of a comfy robe, beach cover-up, and, my favorite item of the season, the wrap-dress.

On most days, Kelly Ripa is definitely not my style icon of choice. But I am seriously digging the dress (by ADAM) that she rocked at a New York party this weekend. A strapless, bold-striped dress with peep-toe pumps equals summertime perfection to me. [Image courtesy of InStyle]

These super colorful wedges really caught my eye; the play of the wood detailing against the vibrant floral print and pastel shade of leather is both playful and stylish. Take style note that both fashionistas paired the wedges with white jeans.

This pretty fashionista is right on trend with the sheer fabrication of her cocktail dress, but she keeps it chic, smart and cool with the cotton underlay. Loves it!

It appears that white colored accessories are all the rage this summer, especially white handbags! I'm loving the YSL clutch bag especially!

Summer has finally arrived in the Pacific Northwest and that means one thing: It's Utilikilt time! In the last 10 days, having recently been in Seattle, Eugene, and back to Portland, I've seen no fewer than a dozen of these horrible toolbelts-parading-as-man-skirts on the lithe bodies of otherwise seemingly normal dudes. Why, oh why??? Ladies, let us assert control over one of the few things that we control in this life - fashion - and show these misguided gents that pleated skirts belong to us.

These two young ladies were standing back to back at a groovy art party the other night and didn't even realize that they were both rocking blood red pumps until I asked them to pose together. Take style note that though both pair are peep toe, they differ in the use of materials (leather and satin) as well as the embellish design elements (strappy ankles, frontal bow.)

I should've known that if white watches by G-Shock were given out at last month's Kanye West event, they were about to become the latest accessory trend. Peep the two styles here....I must admit white colored accessories look quite refreshing against the skin.

The triple ruffle detailing on this oversized handbag, definitely caught my eye and I will personally tell you that the leather was buttery soft and the bag quite lightweight.

This black pump, initially caught my eye because of its shape and the way it wrapped around the ankle. Upon closer inspection I realized that the cuff was lined with what appears to be spandex! Nice.

When I saw this photo of actress Kim Whitley (actually at first I thought it was Jackee) showing her Obama pride at yesterday's BET awards, I was heartened to see the entertainment crowd getting vocal about politics; and then I reconsidered. There is such a thing as just plain tacky and the big block letters, ill fit and just plain wrong shade of purple distract from Whitley's good intentions. There's a right way to wear a message, whether a serious one or just for fun, like on this sunny yellow short-sleeved T-shirt. It's wry, stylish, and subtle. And if there's anything that we need more of into today's in-your-face culture, it's a tad more subtly with our style, no?

Ha! You will recall a few months back that Joey, our funky, turban rocking Curbside Catwalk friend told us that the turban would become the next baseball cap, well the proof is upon us. LOL. Vogue's André Leon Talley has been sporting turbans at high-profile functions over the past few weeks; ATL is so sprung on this hat trend that he even receives lessons from chic-Sikh hotelier Vikram Chatwal on how to properly wrap turbans. Don't tell me I don't know how to spot 'em!

[Image courtesy of Fashion Week Daily]

Seriously, because someone thought it would be cool to design newspaper-themed underwear as "showcased" here. But, the funny thing about this flick is that, I was only focusing on the silver pants and it wasn't until I did a triple look today that I realized he was rocking "news undies." I'm going to refrain from making cracks about morning headlines. LOL.

I should have seen it coming......after all it is an election year. Two weeks ago during a quick look through my fave vintage haunt, a very sexy model dude came in looking for vintage buttons, then last week the uber-stylish receptionist at my TV gig rocked several vintage buttons on a white tee and now this stylish, fashionista proudly showcases her buttons. I guess it's buttons all around!

Tracy Reese has a pretty fly, fully lined raffia dress and coat in her pre-fall collection. But raffia's just for bags and beach hats, you say? Nah-uh. We've got some raffia shoes that would be killer with either piece.

I'm looking forward to seeing stars make the migration from the fall '08 catwalks to fashionista closets this fall -- mainly because I was struck by the bazillion ways designers incorporated the constellations into their collections! Did you see Nina Garcia's starred review? Yves Saint Laurent's stellar collection ran the gamut from a moon-white coat fairy-dusted with metallic stars to star-plated museum piece thingies that'll prolly be scaled back for retail. Tracy Reese's Pre-Fall and Holiday collections kept it simple but fun with twinkling brooches.

Related Links: These accessories are stars too.

I'm not even sure if these actually qualify as gladiator sandals as they seem to be a cross between peep toe flats and a gladiator......never the less they are divine!

If you told me you wanted to take a man's grey blazer, cut off the arms, take in the seams, unbutton it down to there, and slap on some strappy black flats, I'd say you were mad. But then Kate Moss does it, and it's amazing. Here's to turning menswear into something decidedly chic, new, and ladylike.

How yummy are these suede purple pumps?! I caught these pumps on two different fashionistas in the same night...you know it has gotta be a trend!

Ruffles have returned with a stylish vengeance! Take style note of the clean lines of the grey dress and the sheer material and white piping on the hot pink top, which looks quite amazing on her summer-kissed skin!

Related Links: Can't wait for Project Runway winner, Christian Siriano's rufflicious new collection coming this July? Sneak a peek.

These ladies were among at least five others who rocked a 50's inspired retro dress. Take style note of the cinched, belted waist, the diamond constrating stiching and the metalic gold sweater material.

While waiting outside to get into an event last night, I took advantage of the long line of fashionistas and captured a few trends. These patterned canvas pumps were found on the feet of at least three ladies. Adorable!

This raspberry flavored, halter one-piece swimsuit by Brette Sandler Swimwear pulls inspiration from a bygone era and thank goodness because it totally adds an updated freshness to this piece!

The Men's Dress Furnishing Association, which has represented American necktie makers for over 60 years, announced that it is closing down. Tough economic times are partly to blame, but another sad truth is that men don’t wear them much anymore; a recent Gallup Poll said that just six percent of American men wear ties to work. But are they really out? Justin Timberlake, for what it's worth, helped personify the skinny tie comeback that was fashionable among guys not long ago, and we've seen the bow tie make a return as well. So there's your hook for your easy Father's Day gift: 'Dad, I got you a beautiful tie; I thought you could kickstart a resurgence.'

Python themed accessories seem to be slithering around everywhere. These black and white gladiators and bronze python bag , really made this trend fun to capture!

This dress was so divine to me, that it actually caught my attention despite being on a candlelit rooftop...yea. Take style note of the plunged neckline, cinched waist and the mixture of velour, sheer and brocade fabrics. I'm digging the color play as well. Love it!

As we all witnessed last week on the Pink Carpet premiere of SATC, the movie (via SJP's gold Givenchy boots) the summer bootie is in full effect. I'm so digging these sandal inspired peep toe, ankle boots.

Black tie, schmack tie. Isaac Mizrahi and Andre Leon Talley are not wearing time-limit shoes for nobody. At the CFDA awards, the designer and Vogue editor showed up in comfy slides and sling back flats, respectively. And good for them. Note to Jimmy Choo (and Giusseppe Zanotti too): you'd make a killing if you made a truly fly and comfortable black-tie flip-flop.

Related Links: Til then... Tory Burch anyone?

Sheers and funky florals are a strong trend this summer and the two combined into a sexy dress makes for a romantic, whimsical, classic look!

This season’s floaty and feminine maxi dresses are proving to be my new favorite trend for summer. I've discovered that it’s a really nice change to head out to dinner without worrying about sitting uncomfortably in skinny jeans after a big meal. As the lovely Eva Longoria demonstrates, a fabulous maxi is so easy to wear, and somehow manages to make an airport arrival seem uber-glamorous. I’m just not sure which accessory I’m craving more- her pillow or that great yellow bag!...hmmmm.

Get Eva’s maxi by LinQ at 40% off or shop our great maxi selection!

Since it's officially, unofficially SATC day, I'm gonna let you all gorge yourselves on shoes. LOL. I'm so diggin' this leopard print trend on summer sandals and pumps. As you can see it works well with both white and black trimming.

I'm still on a high from the amazing spring soirée the lovely designers at Duchess suits recently threw for their loyal friends and customers in Portland. The amazing clothiers of vintage-style, made-to-measure menswear are absolute artists when it comes to resurrecting the near-lost craft of custom-made suits. Seeing the normally scrappy population of Portland hipster-dudes dressed to the nines made me at once wistful for yesteryear, but also grateful that I live in a town where this brand of throwback-glamour not only exists, but is celebrated as art. Gents, you need not fret if you're outside the 503 area code: A white summer suit jacket and blue cotton button-up shirt will do quite nicely for that upcoming wedding.

Related Links: And you have to check out The Tailor for your full summer wedding solution.

Caught these last night at a Tanqueray fashion event. I must admit, I'm already in love with these shoes.

If you believe British Vogue, we are now reaching back, way back to the Civil War and Scarlett O'Hara for our style inspiration. Think full skirts, but with more length and volume than you think you can pull off. I'm predicting the comeback of corsets as well.

The mixing of hip-hop style (the chain, the bling) with a luxury stone and clean silhouette really made me appreciate this medallion necklace from a style perspective.

The legalization of gay marriage means you're getting hitched! Congratulations California, you're about spend more money on formalwear than ever before. So what’s it gonna be, dress or suit? Not only are gay weddings fueling a growing network of pink dressers, drivers, dj’s etc., they’re also raising a slew of style questions. Two men in tuxes is one thing, but should two women in full bridal regalia really share the same limo? Are tails in the afternoon grounds for annulment? Guests, at least, can relax and dress bold, flirty, flashy and fierce as they want.

This plaid shirtwaist dress, was simply divine! Both fun and functional, I can honestly say that I've yet to see anything like it.

Though, I'm way past the stage to be playing with Legos, I'm so diggin' these Lego accessories -- definitely a unique spin on a belt and necklace.

Guy Trebay's NY Times piece about men's suit trends made an interesting point about American manhood. These days, men's suits are either painfully hip (think fitted European cut, young as in too short blazer cuffs, high-water pants and skinny ties) or old school gentleman -- with boys playing dress up in traditional three-pieces, while the old heads are revising the suited look with quirky, boyish deets. One thing that continues to separate the men from the boys, though is the price tag. With a decent blazer & pants combo starting at $500, this would be a great time to check out the Suit sale we're having.

Related Links: Our new men's shop, The Tailor, has got some great values too!

Let's hear it for the boys! For the past few months I've noticed that overall they seem to be a bit more innovative, daring and creative in their personal style. Yay! Take style note of these two "badges," one made out of a set of Lego’s into a heart, the other out of leather with a traditional badge silhouette. I'm diggin' how they rocked them casually with polo shirts.

This ruffled polka dot dress is a winner in my lookbook. Take style note of the plunging neckline and the slimming silhouette and of course the polka dots, which I'm predicting we will be seeing quite a bit this summer.

I truly believe that one can never be too rich or receive too many roses. These fashionistas give proof to that with colorful and oversized rosebud details. I love how the rosebud on the peep-toe shoes accent her toes, while the buds on the black dress puts a romantic twist on a classic cut and color.

We all know that yellow is the "it" color this spring/summer season; but who knew that it was going to even be done in shoes?! I'm absolutely diggin' this patent leather, stiletto yellow pumps and honestly I've seen quite a variety of yellow shoes for this season.

They're getting wiiiidddder. Wideleg pants were all over the Resort '09 collections, but John Galliano split the seams wide open in his collection for Christian Dior featuring widelegs reminiscent of the ones MC Hammer used to wear.

[Dior photo courtesy of WWD, MC Hammer shot courtesy of GettyImages.com]

Some days after looking through my wardrobe I can't decide if I should join a 12-step program for vintage addicts or open an eBay store; either way these retro dresses are quite beautiful to behold.

I adore these shoes! First they are the perfect spring to summer transition shoe as they are not quite a sandal nor quite a pump but a little of both. What caught my eye was the two-toned shaded coloring, the peep-toe, the zippered and lace-up fronts mixed into the prominently featured insert of patent leather as well as the cut-away spaces on the sides of the shoes. Yum!

Don't get it twisted, Fashionistas. This is no ordinary fanny pack. Take style note of the ruffle detailing, dope dealer chain trim and studded belt turned waistband -- all courtesy of the funky Styleaholic, rocking it proudly!

Once reserved for those who prefer comfort over style (at least those who aren't Native American), the Moccasin Shoe seems to be reemerging as the latest hipster footwear. To drive the point home, I just spotted this shoe in my local el cheapo store done in metallics. (Of course, since I'm a closeted trend groupie, I tried them on, but they looked awful!)

As much as I am over all things '80s, I couldn't help but snap these wonder twins. Dressed like they just stepped out of LL Cool's Around the Way Girl video, Coco & Breezy not only belong to a retro crew, but model, dance and design. Love it! Check out our Kanye-inspired shades, retro tees and funky leggings to get this day-glo look.

Related Links: If you're a lil' scared of neon, Nina Garcia's got some ideas how to light things up without blinding anyone.

Though this a bit too skateboard-goth fashion for me, I can totally appreciate the Batman logo on this hi-top sneaker....sheer genius!

I can't say for sure how new this trend is, but literally within a space of 60 seconds, I saw these pair of black boots with this reddish-chocolate brown trim yesterday in Soho; I'm digging both!

Boy, oh boy, it seems the men truly are taking fashion cues from their feminine counterparts (remember the men in skinny jeans trend alert?) I caught these floral printed sneakers on the feet of a few stylish gents (and yes, they appeared to be straight.)

I absolutely adore this look, but the realistic side of me, knows that this is a jumpsuit that very few of us can wear.

It appears that there has been a recent return to the preppy style of yesterday via the classic striped dress shirt.

“It looks good pressed or just run through the wash. You can wear it with a suit or jeans. You can wear it with or without a tie," states Tommy Fazio, the men’s fashion director at Bergdorf Goodman.

Personally I have to agree, I especially love this look with a pair of dark wash True Religion jeans and brightly colored canvas sneakers.

Every time I turn around there's another trend that came straight out of my junior high closet, circa 1980-something. The latest trip down memory lane? Cut-off jean shorts. Go with the full-on fray for the authentic sixth-grader-in-the-summertime look, or embrace the 21st century with Earnest Sewn's cleaned-up cuffs. [photo courtesy People.com]

With the Miley Cyrus controversy swirling in the pop-culture ether, the Disney-generation has a Nina Garcia-sanctioned alternative: sheer, transparent pieces that trick the eye and layer well over other clothing. Nina also sanctions underwear as outwear if you promise to show just a peek.

Between the thinly-veiled Arabophobia simmering in our post-9/11 culture, the upcoming presidential elections, and the war in Iraq, the fashion world is having a schizophrenic moment. Hence, the patriotic fervor, bright-eyed (and Crayola-colored) optimism, "Summer of Love" escapism, and, yes, Middle-Eastern chic that's been popping up on the runways, in the tabloids, and on blogs like ours. From Chris Brown's keffiyeh cravat to the Sikh-esque turbans that've been head-covering celebs like Beyonce & Mary Kate Olsen, looks like fashionistas are ready for peace -- or at least a few harmonizing pieces to try to make sense of it all.

[Beyonce shot courtesy of Tricesworld.com]

I love fashion news like this! The UK Times recently reported how a new crop of fashionistas are rocking the lastest Pashimina scarves, without the company having to do any serious rebranding! It appears that both the hipster-rocker and fashionista crowds are seriously gravitating to the new style of scarf wearing: Middle-Eastern style (folded into a big triangle at the front and tied at the nape of the neck.) What can I tell you? Humanity will always have a need for a sexy scarf.

With all the '80s redux, I should have guessed. But the second coming of the neon surf look, circa 1989 -- found here, at Coachella -- still took me by surprise. Really? We’re doing this now? Before you try to dig up your old Body Glove neoprene bikini, try this neon yellow bubble dress, to ease into the trend. {photo courtesy latimes.com]

So with the color obsession that has painted over spring '08 fashion, what's a Minimalist Girl to do? Why, what she wants, of course. Go ahead and glam up the bland the way Bottega Veneta and Calvin Klein did with stony grays, chilly chalks, and fleshy nudes. So are you gonna be rocking the acid colors, the minimalist cool tones -- or both? Personally, I plan to be a walking rainbow this spring & summer.

This seems to be a bit of a revolving trend, though I can't say I'm loving it, I do like the vivid color play of the design of the sock against the solid black flat shoe.

Though like many of you, I wish this trend would die a quicker death than Britney's career, I fear this one is here to stay. When you've got both your g-boys and your straights rocking murses, you can bet it's gonna stick around. On a style note, the latest look in the murse bag seems to be plaid briefcases.

Now that we're in the second layer of chatter surrounding that polygamist sect out in Texas, everyone's commenting on their style. Truth be told, there's secretly something close to fierce about their look, no? Some of these ladies' elements work: peep that shoulder looking like that Edwardian trend from a few seasons back! Catch that high hair, which, with a little more shine and control, could look fresh from the TREsemme hair salon! Note that methodical use of color! Some are even saying it totally screams Marc Jacobs . It wouldn't suprise me one bit to see irony-obsessed Williamsburg girls incorporating this look, or even a designer in spring. At the very least, expect to see it this Halloween.

You may not compost your kitchen scraps or drive a hybrid, but you can still make an Earth Day fashion statement. The once-hippie-now-hip realm of eco-fashion is as chic and easy as sustainable bamboo blend tops and organic denim jeans. No patchouli or hemp necklaces necessary. [Image courtesy of Sprig.com]

So, the new way to spot a fake Gucci (or "Fucci") belt is if someone's wearing it like a Miss America sash. As I walked down Canal Street on my way to meet a friend for dinner this past Friday, I saw two dudes sporting their Fucci belts across their chests as they brokered deals with tourists for more of the fake stuff. Hakim paused to pose for me before returning to handle his business. If you want the real thing, get your Gucci here -- and send a letter to Diane Von Furstenberg.

I can't say for sure, if this is going to be a huge trend or not for spring, but this all over lace dress caught my eye. Take style note of the pockets, cropped sleeves and the vintage look of the lace pattern itself.

So by now you've seen the pics and trend watch pieces on spring's museum/gallery pieces. Personally, I'm digging every paint-splattered minute of it -- just stay AWAY from the jeans. Check out the surrealist chic Chloe, Dolce & Gabbana and others sent down the catwalk -- then let us know how you feel about the Art Basel-ification of spring fashion.

I'm jonesing so hard on patent leather! These steel grey oxford style shoes are not only right on trend but give a funky, updated twist to a classic.

I'm digging this floral cardigan; the bright spring colors, sequins and swing silhouette really pop this classic piece!

If you're worth your weight in Gucci, then you're already up on the latest look in clutch bags ; if not, you are going to adore The Bow Clutch bag. It's basically a wristlet and a handbag in one, as the bow on the bag is made big enough for you to slide your wrist through. This black patent leather bow clutch by Alexis Hudson is a great way to get started on this trend!

...star-printed dresses by Karl Lagerfeld for Chanel, star motifs by Stefano Pilati for Yves Saint Laurent, and more stars by -- I'll stop scooping the video so you can see for yourself. I'm totally digging the "baby, you're a star" message star prints convey, and I love stripes -- just not sure how I feel about wearing 'em together on any other day but July 4th. How do you feel about spring's "Americana the Beautiful" trend?

We often under appreciate how a great sleeve on a coat, jacket or top can really pop an outfit. Take style note of the sheer material (which is right on trend this season)as well as the gold detailing on the sleeves captured here.

Checking out our new baby bFly's goodies, I noticed that chocolate brown leather sandals are in high supply, which then made me do a bit of summer trend research and it has been confirmed that brown leather sandals, specifically wedges could very well be the "it sandal" of the summer. Personally I can't choose between these studded Michael Kors or these sexy Nanette Lepore's .

Personally, I've been rocking sequined tops for the past few seasons, but I've recently noticed a strong surge of these disco frocks being worn by a variety of fashionistas on heavy rotation; vintage or new sequined tops do it for me!

Absolutely! Stripes are trending super strong right now, especially black and white stripes!

If this look works for you check out this tunic dress by Autumn Cashmere.

Over the weekend, I engaged in a pub crawl to see just what type of fashion occurred when one bothered to party with the Bridge & Tunnel, 9-5 crowd; I was pleasantly surprised to note that they were right on trend--even a bit forward--with these fun metallic looks. My favorite pieces include the gloves and the striped shoes.

I'm digging how these Styleaholics used non-traditional materials to create stylish and eclectic accessories.

Just in time for spring coat season, Nina Garcia is all about the African safari-inspired khaki trenches, blazers & vests Donna Karan, Lanvin & Proenza Schouler sent down the runways, and the batik prints too. The jury's still out for me on animal prints, though. What say you?

These blinged out looks made me re-think my no bling rule--okay--my no faux bling rule; I'm digging the "dope dealer chain" paired with the grandpa cardigan and the diamond dice choker.

These unique necklaces are surely a surfacing trend. Take note of the paper, bubble style and the fun colored paints used to create the lifelike look and feel of these avant-garde pieces.

As Sex & the City Movie fever continues to ramp up, Nina Garcia gives us the go-ahead to let our bra straps show Carrie-style.

Judging from the blinged out faces of these two animals, it would appear that "animal bling" is the latest accessory trend.

Hair accessories in general seem to be making a big comeback, but I've recently noticed a strong trend in hair bows. Style notes include vinyl material and the sparkly faux diamonds.

Yowser! These Louis Vuitton 7" heels are the latest craze in fashionable footwear. According to the UK Times there is already a waiting list, and when they hit the shops later this year, they will be the highest heels in fashiondom, topping current title-holder Christian Louboutin's 6" black pony skin shoes. It appears shoes are getting taller and wilder as more women get comfortable expressing their outlandish side through their shoes!

[Image courtesy of UK Times]

What's cool about beatnik chic is it basically incorporates spring's other big trends. So you're actually saving money with this look -- at least that's what you can tell yourself when you're filling your shopping cart* with goodies. So go 'head and get yourself some funky florals, a really great pair of wideleg jeans, gladiator sandals for day and some hot platforms for night -- and you're good to go.

*You have till March 31st to use the FLYPAPER30 discount. If you're a new customer, you'll get $30 off your order of $150 or more.

From the runway to the streets, the printed cardigan is in full effect; looks can include street scenes, florals and animal prints. Peep this great spring cardigan by Nanette Lepore.

The vintage prints on these babydoll dresses were just too cute to miss! Note the pairing of the dresses with jeans and jackets.

Anyone who knows me personally or even just virtually can attest to the fact that I'm a walking rainbow; but even I have my limits. I'm not so sure about opaque stockings in the two colors captured here. The green screams yuck and the burgundy yells prep school.

You will recall Flypaper alerting you to the sheer & clear spring trend -- well we didn't lie to you... Over the past few weeks I've noticed a delightful array of sheer tops in candy colors.

We all know that the bow is a serious trend for spring, worn mainly by women as a fun touch on tops, belts, coats and even headbands..but the other night I saw both a woman and a dude rocking this layered, ruffle white bow! I'm digging this.

Whether you are awash in fond memories from the 80s, or think of it as an adult onesie, the jumpsuit is here for your consideration in Spring ’08. It has been thoroughly dissected by I Am Fashion, donned by [left to right] Rhianna, Jennifer Hudson, and Pixie Geldoff on and off the runway. In fact, there are so many iterations of this trend you can go from day to night with ease. Just don’t try to go to the bathroom.

I can't say whether I'm actually digging this trend or not, but it defo caught my eye.

If you are loving this look take a peek at these Dolce & Gabbana kicks.

We've been hearing a lot about the waist as a focal point for designers this season, but Nina Garcia says we should add the shoulder to the list thanks to strong showings of spring power suits and jackets. (Between now & March 31st, if you splurge on a suit -- and you've never bought anyhting on Bluefly before -- you can save an extra $30 just by typing FLYPAPER30 at checkout!)

MORE NINA
>Flowers are Power!

>It's Electric!

I pride myself on staying on top of and whenever possible, ahead of any shoe trend; that being said, the flower detailing on these pink leather Nanette Lepore wedges are divine and I believe will be a major trend this summer.

Skimming around the blogsphere, it seems that yellow is the "IT" color for the Spring; if that's true, I'm thinking I'm going to start with this hooded raincoat by Priorities.

This spring it's all about powerful flower patterns, but how to wear 'em without looking like an overgrown garden? Watch Nina Garcia's latest vid to get her expert tips. And don't forget: Only for this month, if you're new to Bluefly and spend more than $150, you get $30 off just by typing FLYPAPER30 at checkout so watch -- then shop!

>Nina's got The Bright Stuff too!

You will recall that our last Curbside capture Joey proclaimed that the turban would be the new baseball cap; well he may be on to something...the dude captured here added a lil' Gen X swagger with the Y-3 jacket.

How fun are these comic strip tights? They totally make me want to dig out my old stacks of Archie comic books! If these tights work for you check out these Pirate Scanty pair.

At last count, I had over 5 pairs of white shoes, including a pair of stilettos, ankle boots and flat, knee length boots and I must admit that I dig my shoes even more when they become "dirty white" as it adds both a gritty and hipster-rocker aesthetic.

How psyched were we when our Project Runway BFF, Nina Garcia agreed to break down how and where to wear spring's biggest trends exclusively for Bluefly? Nina shot TEN vids for us -- this first installment is about spring's fling with electric color -- so check back next week and the weeks after that for Nina's newest style notes. And after you watch, make sure to shop the spring dresses, shoes, accessories and menswear that JUST arrived in our warehouse. Only for this month, if you're new to Bluefly and spend more than $150, you'll get $30 off just by typing FLYPAPER30 at checkout. Yay for spring hook-ups!

PS -- Don't forget to check out our hottest spring accessories!

Women have so many options when it comes to accessories whereas men frankly don't; part of the reason for this is their own fear of being portrayed in the wrong fashion (pun intended.) Captured here were gents who added atypical bracelets to their wrists. Including the rubberband, I'm digging both looks.

The news that Mark "It's-So-Hideous-It's-Great" Jacobs and thoroughly modern Issey Miyake sent polyester down their runways last month is vindicating all the discount shoppers who’ve been picking nubby doubleknits and slippery synthetics from sale bins for years with the quiet understanding that polyester is made of petroleum and petroleum is liquid gold. And as crude oil surpasses $100 a barrel, you’ve gotta admit, the cheap suit is starting to look pretty sweet.

Related Links: Can't swing a whole leisure suit? Go with the jacket.

Upon first glance at this stereo themed clutch, I was impressed; I've shot hundreds of items and had never seen the likes of this bag. However, looking back at it this morning..I'm thinking not so much.

When is a scarf not just a scarf? When it's a keffiyeh. (The one Chris Brown is rocking here isn't traditional, but it's a take on the old-school variety.)Hipsters have re-adopted this very popular scarf yet again lately, but not everyone may know that the Middle Eastern scarves are loaded with political connotations, from "anti-war" leanings to "terrorist" sympathizing to solidarity with Palestine. Urban Outfitters even dropped them for a time after complaints. For some though, the fact that they're in U.O. and Topshop in England just goes to prove they've become so trendy and watered down that they are, indeed, just scarves again.

Related Links: Gucci never causes offense. Jealousy, perhaps, but never offense.

Last we polled you were digging men in skinny jeans.

When I saw these two Styleaholics, I couldn't help but to think to myself, "Now, that's how you rock a Cosby sweater!" If you're digging this look check out this Adam Lippes piece.

Oh yea! I'm so down for this trend! Despite the blogsphere's "leggings are not pants!" movement, the leather lover and legging addict in me simply can't resist. "Sir, I'll take two pairs please!"

We all know that plaid is a HUGE trend right now in womenswear--from accessories to coats--but the gents captured here rocked, quite well, extremely bold plaid trousers. Take note of both the slim cut with a tapered ankle and the flared leg with a wide cuff.

The funky details on these cowboy boots--studded gold metallic plates and hand-painted floral design--put a fashion forward spin on an all time classic boot.

The colors, hot pink and dove grey, the shapes, stiletto and stacked and the contrasting sizes of these heels, made these pumps pop!

Ruffles have certainly been taking center stage this season. Here take note of the mismatch color, fuller silhouette and longer length of the hems.

I've recently noticed the return of black, quilted leather used to create pieces other than handbags. The knee-length boots work great for me; however, the 90's style vest doesn't quite make the cut.

As a self-proclaimed cell phone aficionado, West recently blogged about the new Coco Chanel phone designed by Fred de Garilhe. This stylish digital jewel encompasses 12 micro-lighter fibers that make the phone super light-weight, images multi-dimensional and lights to appear only when the phone is in use!

Despite my fervent, hopeful prayers that this particular 80's trend wouldn't return--it has! Not only have I seen it on several retailers' mannequins, I caught this fashionista last night rocking her very own handmade pair. Yowser! I'm so not feeling this trend!

These fashionistas really popped their outfits with well placed feathers. I'm especially digging the snow-white Flapper style headdress.

These funky belts are proof that a fashionista should never underestimate the style power of a great buckle!

Last summer when I read that capes were returning for the winter, I had no idea that they would be so stylish! Note the fun take on "the red riding hood cape," and the asymmetrical pleats and peek-a-boo color on the grey wool piece.

Captured in both earth and jewel tones as well as in a nylon and knit material, an argyle pattern is the latest look in tights. Fashionistas, if you are digging this trend, check out these looks.

The first time I spotted these studded boots, I went nuts! These bad boys to the left are Christian Louboutin...let's just have a moment of silence.

I'm not big on labels, so I absolutely love when someone takes a luxe logo item and makes it their own by personalizing it in some cool way. Here, the deep purple spray paint and graffiti play on the logo, simultaneously funks up and reinvents this classic Chanel bag.

Okay, we all know that both oversized frames--with or without lenses--are in, as well as plaid button down tops. However I've spotted several fashionistas rocking the two items together.

Once I left my grandmother's home and the weekly motto of "little girls wear bows on their Sunday school dresses--every dress," a bow has yet to find its way into my modern day wardrobe. However these fashionistas get it just right. Note that the bow, an oversized one, can be worn traditionally at the neck or as a funky hair accessory.

I think we can all agree that we are a slogan driven society. Whether it is those uncool, "baby on board," bumper stickers or t-shirts that tell your boss what part of your anatomy to kiss, we never tire of slogans, especially on tees. Captured here is a shoe addict's stylish declaration for her love of shoes. It took a lot of effort not to completely rip this bag off of her arm--as she was moving very quickly--I didn't get the name of the designer. Does anyone know who makes this bag?

Despite freezing temps here in NYC, black mini skirts are in full swing. The trend seems to lean toward textured fabrics--like crushed velvet--or decorative touches like these raised black roses.

I tried; I really did try to avoid noticing this trend. But alas, the camera doesn't lie--unless you've employed the help of an ANTM type of beauty team--the horrid Babydoll Dress is back despite the fact that it does nothing style wise but make women look as though they are on permanent maternity leave without a support bra in sight. The hipster captured here, spruced up her "sack" with unusual accessories and an edgy haircut.

Sans the "blood diamonds," it would appear that Mr. West has made it quite popular among both the hip-hop and hipster elite to rock a "Jesus Piece." Here this daring fashionista sports hers on a pair of swanky, buttery soft, (I felt them) leather, hand gloves.

With the return of the headband trend, I've noticed that a variety of materials are being used to make them: zippers, feathers and, here, a blood-red, wide piece of satin ribbon. Take note of how she's wearing it as both a tie and a headband. You too can rock this look with a little help from Eugenia Kim.

By applying transformational garment concepts pioneered by designers like “refuge wear” artist Lucy Orta to the pedestrian footwear industry, the folks at Camileon Heels have launched a line of collapsible heel shoes that should have style-conscious professionals slamming down their orders like eBay addicts all set to “Buy It Now.” Instead, the frumpy pumps and church lady slings are probably collecting dust on a warehouse shelf somewhere in Pennsylvania. As it stands, unless a forward-thinking design firm like Stella McCartney's or Muccia Prada’s rethinks this not-bad idea, Camileon Heels will likely go the way of the skort.

Related Links: Meanwhile, you can keep stepping out in style.

In case you haven't noticed, I'm big on trendspotting textures and patterns and despite my best efforts I simply can't ignore the wonderful bevy of plaid accessories. Here, this fashonista sets off her beautiful, nubby, grey, mini-dress with a bold, plaid clutch.

It appears that this season, more and more accessories are being made in unusual materials. Here this funky fashionista rocks what I call a "T-shirt necklace," a piece of fabric fashioned into a necklace by simply knotting and twisting the fabric at even intervals. I'm also digging how she layered it with the horseshoe piece.

During my usual rounds of trendspotting, I've noticed that a traditional tie and a traditional scarf has been replaced with the tie-scarf. Now I don't know for certain if this is a new trend, but I absolutely dig it. The trick to finessing this looks seems to be utilizing a rather thin/skinny but textured piece of extremely long fabric and then knotting it in a similar fashion as you would a tie. If you too are digging this look check out this DVF scarf.

In between throwing back yummy martinis and checking out the new Francois Girbaud denim collection the other night at the New Museum on Bowery, my eye was snagged by this rather eclectic and definitely original zippered, metal headband which was actually made by the young lady herself!

I absolutely love how this fashionista takes a vintage wool, army green Garrison hat and lightens it up with a ruffled, ethereal, white frock. I'm convinced that we will see a variety of Garrison army hats this season executed in a multitude of textures, patterns and colors.

Okay I've recently noticed that the skinny jean trend has crossed over to the menfolk--men who are not rockers or gay or models. They are however quite fashionable, I'm especially digging this blueberry colored pair of skinny jeans.

As we all know metallics are still going strong after several seasons, especially variations of gold and silver. During my various nights out shooting Styleaholics, I've noticed that a metallic gold bag, whether it be oversized or a clutch seems to be de rigueur this season.

I'm sorry PETA, but I must give kudos to these fashionistas as they demonstrate the proper way to use a bit of fur to embellish an outfit. I especially love the emerald green cropped jacket.

I love when a legitimate news organization writes about one of my biggest pet peeves. Today's? Inconsistent sizing in women's clothing. Forbes.com is reporting that a very savvy young lady named Melissa Adelman has taken wacked-out retail sizing and used it to create her genius online service, Size Me Up. Here you can input sizing info from those best-fitting garments in your closet to see what size (gulp) you really are at most retailers. If you're anything like me, you shop where you're the smallest (hello Ann Taylor!), so this handy service not only tells you where else you're a 6, but where you're a 12 so you can, you know, like totally avoid those stores.

Related Links: Skip horribly-lit dressing rooms and enjoy the mirror-free experience of buying jeans online.

As I prepare my wardrobe for NYC Fashion Week, my one urgent request to the wonderful bevy of indie designers creating a few custom pieces for me is: "Save me from the 80's!" Though I am a passionate fan of all things spandex, fuchsia and pointy-toed, for me the revival of the 80's is officially done. However, there are some who would argue differently --hence-- the return of the exposed bra.

Buzzing around town last night, I noticed the return of animal printed pieces. What's a bit different this time around though is the use of a variety of color patterns and actual animal prints. Take note of the maroon leopard cardigan and neon green faux python leggings.

Personally, I can always appreciate a classic piece of jewelry such as the double strand of pearls and triple-layered pendants, made new again when worn with on trend fashions.

The G-boys featured here were not afraid of expressing themselves from the neck down. They chose to highlight their man cleavage with dope dealer chains, blazers, belted sweaters and beaded necklaces.

Poking fun at the ribs of size zero celebs, Brit/Oz fashion label, Antipodium launched their size 0 "Size Matters" skippy tote during the recent London Fashion Week. Featuring a skeletal bush kangaroo the sarcastic tote has seemed to wow audiences from London to Leichardt with over 800 of the totes snapped up during the week alone. I wouldn't be surprised if next season's totes were named after POB and the Olsen twins.

Dying to share some of Manhattan's flyest hoods to my Georgia peach friends, I braved frigid temperatures on yesterday and took to the streets of Chinatown, Little Italy, Soho and the Lower East Side. In between multiple cups of Starbucks and convincing them to give ankle boots a try, I captured quite a few fashionistas rocking a leopard bag.

Dude in the swim jammers, knock it off please. Yes, you’re hot, but those weird half-leggings flatter no man, and unless you’re training for the 1200-meter freestyle in Beijing there’s no excuse. Swim cap not goofy enough for you? Put on some goggles. Just get out of those girdle trunks which make you look like you got knocked off your bike and had your jersey stolen. You’re liable to give yourself an infection.

Related Links: I may live to regret it, but I’ll say it anyway: even a speedo is preferable.

For those of you who waited until last weekend to do all your holiday shopping, as I did, your last-minute surge did nothing to boost an already dismal spending season. The Chicago Tribune reports that retailers are desperately counting on the last week of the year when shoppers descend on clearance sales; redeem the $26.3 billion we spent on gift cards this year; and return those ugly sweaters and socks from Aunt So-and-So. Personally, I didn't receive any nice-try-but-are-you-nuts? gifts this year (a testament to my carefully-worded wish list, natch), but if you're among the masses who did, it's probably best to wait until after New Year's when the kiddies are back in school, the amateurs are back in the 'burbs and you're back at work. What are long lunch breaks for, if not for shopping?

Related Links: Stay warm and shop for winter bargains from your desk.

Hailed as "the latest super rad fad in the DIY winter fashion movement" by Threadbangers, it is simply a combination of a scarf and a hoodie. With close to a 100,000 YouTube views in less than 20 days I predict this trend will be popping up like crazy on both the street and the runway very soon. Peep the video below to learn how to create your own.

Fashionistas can appreciate a good bauble, especially a well placed one. Captured here at a Heatherette party are what I like to call "bauble shrugs". Created in both 80's retro and traditional glass with drape tassels, these pieces are quite baublicious!

Buzzing around at night over the past few weeks, I've noticed upon several occasions younger men sporting bowties. Silver sequins, electric stripes and Gen X swagger have replaced both the "stuffy professor" character and traditional bowtie.

I will be the first to admit my serious addiction to accessories, especially bags; like shoes and jewels a fashionista can never have too many. The use of vivid colors and dynamic graphics on these cotton beauties put a funky spin on the classic images of John Wayne and the Mona Lisa.

While making my rounds at the many holiday parties, I noticed a serious uprising of black and white printed scarves, worn by both sexes. The way they were worn was just as varied as the actual patterns themselves which included traditional black and white stripes, a gingham check fabric and a plaid style.

True fashionistas understand the simple beauty of the perfect winter white piece. I'm seriously digging how this gent paired his white trench with the black 'n white bike hat, while this young lady fiercely plays up her ethereal features, with this feathered Flapper style headdress.

Stand back Febreze there is a new scent in town. Label Cimarron Jeans has recently created scratch and sniff colored denim with a matching scent. The yellow jeans have a lemon scent, the orange jeans are scented with mandarin tones, green denim is minty fresh and pink smells of fresh berries. According to Cimarron’s designer, Tiziano Folgia, the scent is only released when the denim is rubbed and the scent should last up to 20 washes. I love this concept! Like many busy fashionistas, I wait until I'm down to my granny panties and non-matching socks before I bother with doing the laundry, so having jeans that "re-scent" themselves, is an ideal solution.

In response to the trend of customers reusing shopping bags for non-chic necessities (carrying laundry to the cleaners or lunch to work) a heated competition is under way in retailing to offer the most durable, fashionable shopping bags that can be reused by consumers long after they make a purchase. Luxe national chains, such as, Saks Fifth Avenue, Lord & Taylor, and Scoop are investing millions of dollars in new flourishes like plastic-coated paper and heavy fabric cord handles, with brands aiming to make each and every one of us bag-a-licious billboards.
[photo courtesy of New York Times]

As someone who takes pride in being a bit left of fashion and therefore a heavy "rule" breaker when it comes to my personal style and my critique of other's wardrobe choices; I still find myself on the fence about the surfacing trend of the makeshift "winter sandal", especially when worn with black opaque tights. On one hand, I think, why not get some extra mileage out of those sandals? On the other hand, I have yet to buy my first pair of peep toe pumps that are all the rage this fall because I honestly feel that toes should only be on display during the summer months.

Several seasons ago Donna Karan's menswear collection was accessorized with a wide variety of brooches; from small classic, silver brooches to mini, swashbuckling swords. However, this trend never seemed to hit the mainstream until recently. While out at the David Barton Gym event the other night, I noticed these lovely gems. The combination of the bling and strategic placement of the brooches on these gents, was both dapper and fabulous!

It appears that gold medals are no longer the badges of honors for athletes-jewelry is.

“Finisher’s jewelry is part of a movement in retail and in events — that you don’t need to look and feel like a tomboy if you’re an athlete,” said Paula Harkin, a race director and specialty store owner.

Though Nike was among the first to dole out jewels instead of medals, the idea is catching on, this year alone winners were given a variety of accessories from dainty Tiffany sterling silver pendants to silver charms on leather cord bracelets.

In between watching the crazy mixing of glamorous Christmas themed drag queens and A-listers such as Marc Jacobs and Sarah Jessica Parker tip-toe their way around dumbbells at the David Barton Gym's annual toy drive last night, I noticed a few fashionistas wearing a kilt-like skirt. Personally, I'm not exactly digging this look as it tends to drag down your booty and give you a non-chic Little House on the Prairie feel.

I'm not exactly sure which designer made these corduroy faux riding pants, but I'm digging the unusual placement of the fine animal print figures individually stitched onto them-fashionistas will notice the use of spiders and dragonflies on these pair.

[photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images]

Last we polled, you guys were loving the elbow-length glove, but what say you about the fingerless Madonna variety that Kylie Minogue performed in at the Nobel Peace Prize concert in Oslo today? I don't keep my manicure fresh enough to rock these on the regular, but I'd slip 'em on for the next '80s party I'm invited to. Speaking of, what do you think about studded gloves?

I couldn't help but notice, the rising trend of elbow-length cocktail gloves in both bold, bright colors and luxe fabrics like satin and leather.

Buzzing around town last night, I took notice of the strong use of red. From ruby red lips to vintage frocks, a red piece is a must have item this holiday season.

Buzzing around Chelsea last night, I ended up at Complex Magazine's annual shopping event, Premium Goods. Always good for yummy looking guys and funky fashionistas, my eye was caught by the variety of retro accessories.

Don't tell Kate Moss, but UGLY is in. Ugly NY is a 30 year old British modeling agency that recently moved its headquarters to NYC. Specializing in real people with unique features as models along with odd types like Sumo wrestlers, dwarfs and tattoo junkies this agency is one of a few growing areas of the traditional modeling industry; and just in case you are wondering if this is a joke, at upwards $7,000 a day for a shoot, I would say these 'ugly folks' are laughing all the way to the bank.[via New York Times]

Who needs an in-flight movie or magazine? Get an aisle seat and study folks walking to the bathroom. Nobody seems to have rear view mirrors at home. Or a fit checker. Baggy, droopy, tight, cutting, too long, too short -- too ugly.

I've been thinking about giving gold stars or smiley faces to the people who get it closest to right. I haven't bought the stars yet but that's okay -- noone to give one to on this flight anyway.

--ELLIN SALTZMAN

Tell me something. Did it suddenly become de rigeur for designers to have an entire body covered in tattoos ?

[Tatted up Project Runway designers, Sweet P and Jeffrey Sebelia]

If we're talking golden oldies, James Galanos, Pierre Cardin, Bill Blass, Geoffrey Beene, and Oscar de la Renta kept their bodies of work on the runway -- as do Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and Donna Karan. Michael Kors doesn't have a tattoo either (unless he has a baby one hidden from the public). So what is it? Is it considered sexy -- or pretty????? I know it's not kosher which is why some of the Jewish designers don't have them.

Until I can ask Ralph, Calvin and Donna, please explain.

--ELLIN SALTZMAN

The New York Times has redesigned the site for their magazine, T and I think it's pretty fly. Stare at the homepage for a second (or 60) and you'll see Natalie Portman's expression morph. I know there are way cooler digital effects out there, but simple deets like that make my day.

While the wearing of the long flowing scarf is certainly not a new menswear trend, the use of silk scarves that lean toward more traditionally feminine styles is. Personally, I think it's a very funky and freeing look, though I have to be honest and say that if a man shows up on a first date rocking one these, I would have some questions.

Buzzing around town the other night, I discovered a hot new accessory trend for men. Fitted, brightly colored sparkling sequined hats! I love the jewel tones and the variety of ways that these boys propped them on their heads and yes that is the lovely Richie Rich, co-designer of Heatherette.

Every woman has gotten a pair of pants hemmed at the tailor and been asked the question, "Are you wearing flats or heels with this?" Um, both? What you wind up with is a situation where some pants can be worn with heels but swim at the ankles with sneakers, and others are highwaters with heels that just perfectly graze the foot with flats. There's never any good solution--until now, perhaps? According to Fashiontribes, a company called Zakkerz makes magnets that purportedly hold a makeshift hem in place. Voila, hemming without the commitment. The downside: one massive cuff.

Actually, the political style icon herself will not be partnering up with H&M but Finnish fabric company Marimekko will be, the brand whose dresses she made famous back in the ‘60’s. For Summer ‘08, H&M designers will be re-vamping popular Marimekko patterns from the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. The collection will feature graphic heavy classic summer shirts and shorts for men and 70's style dresses and tunics for women.

So Fabsugar posed a love ‘em or hate ‘em question about these new Christian Louboutin pumps and here is where the eclectic-has six different colors in my Brooklyn bedroom-Styleaholic wrestles with the moon in Virgo-Southern raised-closeted cheapskate in me.

On one hand, these babies were made for red carpets and global runways, daily haunts for yours truly.

On the other hand, one wrong step and I can just see those bows flying right off.

Well either way I will always love these pair of Loub's.

Don't overdo it is the advice of the season when it comes to embellishing with plaid and leopard accents. While WWD admonishes anyone wearing more than a pair of plaid shoes, the New York Times suggests restraint when it comes to animal prints -- a clutch here, a hat there, and that's it. Tell it to Givenchy and Gaultier.

Related Links: Some plaid here, some leopard there, but for goodness' sake, not together!

I finally found something to go with Rick Owens' brain hat -- it's Jun Takahashi's brain bag, from the fall Undercover collection. All great designers think alike, right?

US Airways' shuttle to Boston and Washington from New York LaGuardia has the best dressed air travelers! They win the award. Not a jogging suit in sight. No leggings on oversized women. No droopy-legged jeans on guys. It is traveling in style. Granted, people take the shuttle for business meetings so the men are in suits and ties and the women wear skirt suits or trousers with sweaters and leather jackets but everyone looks great. Now why can't people go to the theater, ballet, opera or even a good restaurant dressed like that?

--ELLIN SALTZMAN

Anyone looking for an alternative to shoe behemoths Nike and Adidas just got lucky. Denwave, one my favorite boutiques, just got a shipment of Common Projects - the most spare, streamlined and insignia-free kicks ever made. A collaboration between Prathan Poopat (Visionaire magazine's former art director) and Flavio Girolami, the NYC-based company includes no explicit branding on its tennies, save for the article number and shoe size factory-stamped in gold on the heel. Sneaker-heads who live in these cities (and can spare about $260) can also embrace the future of brand-free foot fashion. Ooh, feels good.

Related Links: Your feet like a little branding now and then.

Can't get away with using a real anorexic model? Then go ahead and build your own pretend one, as Target's doing with 3-D hologram models for an upcoming runway show at Grand Central Station November 4th and 5th. It sounds like the low-rent version of Hussein Chalayan's projected spring 2008 show. If this becomes a new trend, no one will ever have to worry about feeding models again.

The perfect fall colors are those least expected. The New York Times has a fantastic slide show by style & society photo guru Bill Cunningham, who snapped shots around the streets of Paris this fall. It's a small mini-tutorial on how to mix melon, yellow, pink and lavender in with the season. And you can do it no matter what age. Pair a bright pink skirt with black leggings or grey coats. The truly brave, as you can see, throw on as many easter-egg colors as possible. They're saving jewel tones for spring.

Two decades have passed since Madonna first revealed her bra straps and everyone else followed suit. Boxers exposed by sagging pants is been one of the longest-lived trends of teenagerdom, probably because it so successfully annoys adults. So why does it take Marc Jacobs lingerie-infused collection for underwear exposure to be seen as some kind of major cultural movement? Beats us. [via the New York Times]

Whether it's turbans, suspender shorts or white Ray-Bans, 2007 has certainly had its share of weird trends (and Fergie has worn almost of them). People has outlined some of the worst for your guilty pleasure celebrity reading.

Though it's not the kind of bike you could leave alone even for a second, the new Chanel bicycle, left, seems primed for well-dressed spring rides in Paris -- perhaps with boy and baguette in tow. Adding to the two-wheeled trend, Cynthia Rowley took a bow on a cruiser at the end of her spring 2008 collection, featuring bike-themed cashmere and gold bicycle pendants. Add to that Puma's gorgeous folding bicycle and this horsecycle tee shirt and you're ready to roll.

Related Links: They don't clip in, but Prada bicycle shoes have the look.

As fashion materials grow ever more obscure, with ostriches, caimans and stingrays finding new life as shoes and handbags, it's nice to see a shout-out to the humble fish. Not only is fish skin -- called "sea leather" by its promoters -- something new, it's also eco-friendly, saved as it is from trash bins and landfills, and looks a lot like snakeskin. But that doesn't necessarily make designers want to work with it. As alice + olivia's Stacey Bendet told the New York Post, "They smell. Gross!" Earth Pledge claims otherwise, saying, it "does not smell fishy ..." adding, "It happens to be very beautiful."

Related Links: alice + olivia has nothing against cotton and wool.

This pair of black wool dresses from the latest Jil Sander campaign reminded us of a great bunch of dresses with fabulous back details in a recent issue of the New York Times Magazine. Zac Posen and Brioni made the best exits.

Shoulder pads may not be the first thing you want to adopt from a bunch of recent trends, and seeing Posh Spice wearing them in Paris for an upcoming issue of Elle may not help matters much. But we have to say she rocks them quite well.

Framing the face, ruffled necklines are always flattering and made several appearances on the global runways for spring 2008, though it's a good look to steal when things get chilly this fall. Just pull a ruffle 'round your neck and you're toasty. A few of our faves from Reem Acra, Malandrino, Christopher Kane and Monique Lhuillier.

Related Links: Run with ruffles.

When it's this hot out in October, it's easy to fantasize about next season's spring fashion. Assuming winter never comes, as fall fashion peddlers are beginning to fear as climate change feels more like reality than theory, which spring trends have grabbed your attention?

Related Links: Pray for snow.

Sleeves that would look at home on a disco queen showed up in a few collections, with huge bell shapes complete with airy cutouts from Antonio Berardi, left, a subtler almost secretarial look from Elie Saab, center, and a barely-there bell from the good people at Hermes, right.

Fabrics with smudged black and white graphics appeared on the global spring '08 runways of Nina Ricci (this collection is amazing, be sure to take a look), Giles and Moschino Cheap & Chic, which turned a simple happy face into a sort of creepy symbol. Is it just inspiration from new fabrics, or a reflection of the never-ending fashion cycle, where trends blend from one to the next without a break? Or maybe they just like the way it looks.

Related Links: Just the thing.

Paris fashion week is wrapping up with an explosion of stars and stripes, most notably on the Chanel runway, with a sort of odd-looking shout-out to the American flag, far left. YSL went heavy on the stars, next, while Giambattista Valli and Jean-Charles de Castelbajac went for the stripes. Plus, don't miss Style.it's feature on stars (of the celebrity sort) wearing stripes, or the JC Report's latest issue, all about rising runway stars of all stripes. [photos courtesy Getty Images, Style.com and Yahoo]

Related Links: Stars and stripes forever.

Some major flower power appeared on the spring 2008 runways, and from the most unlikely places, too. Of all people, usually darkly minimalist designer Dries van Noten went crazy with the floral prints, sometimes printing more than one floral on one piece of fabric. "You can end up wearing four or five prints in just a couple of pieces," he told Style.com. Stella McCartney also threw out some ruffly, layered floral numbers that, quite frankly, would have looked at home on the racks of Ross Dress for Less. And of course kicking it all off were Balenciaga's structured floral pieces, set on a flowered carpet runway.

Related Links: Maybe I just need to get used to it.

Catherine McNeil could have passed for Keira Knightley in "Pirates of the Caribbean" on the Jean Paul Gaultier's spring 2008 runway. Though Catherine looks far cooler than Keira, dressed as she is in this hot triple belt camouflage top. It's an easy enough look to crib, so steal it before springtime hits.

Related Links: Stock up on extra belts or get two for one with this one by Linea Pelle.

A sort of cross between a gladiator sandal, legwarmers and soccer shin guards has emerged on the runways of Paris. Here's a few versions, from Jean Paul Gaultier, Balenciaga and Maison Martin Margiela (how do those things stay on your feet?). Seems like some good protection to wear with a miniskirt, and perfect for the ladies who want to cry when they have to put away their boots for the summer.

Quite literally. Models brought their nicotine addictions out into the open during Jean Paul Gaultier's show, smoking everything from pipes to Marlboros while strutting down the runway as pirates (harrgh) and brides (awww). Dsquared started it all in Milan, as Fashionista noted. All this comes on the heels of a New York Times article decrying models who survive on little more than cigarettes: "It's pretty common knowledge that they smoke more than long-haul truckers."

Related Links: The only designers who have banned smoking backstage? Prada and Bottega Veneta.

In an era of Paris and Britney flashing their business all over town, we shouldn't be surprised to see some more, um, revealing fashions on the runway. Let's just say Maison Martin Margiela has really pushed the limit with the camel toe in his spring 2008 collection. The old boy still has it in him to shock, even the fashion crowd.

Gorgeous, rich illustrations have been popping up on dresses for spring 2008, lending a one-of-kind couture feel to several collections, notably Roberto Cavalli, Paola Frani, Prada and Moschino Cheap&Chic.

Related Links: Not cheap, but definitely chic.

Here's another look that's making its way across the spring 2008 runways -- wearing a belt over a sweater or jacket, styled here in the collections of Marni, Burberry, Etro and Armand Basi. But beware, says Fashionista, who first spotted the trend on the Proenza Schouler runway -- this look is harder to pull off than you might think. Try it at home first with advice from their readers.

In the same vein as Benetton's iconic photos of a dying AIDS patient, Italian brand Nolita is using a photo of a nude anorexic woman to sell clothes. It's a pretty raw tactic, and a ridiculous one to use during Milan fashion week, where plenty of models are still displaying stick-thin thighs and bony ribs, despite all the hand-wringing over size zero models. [via Reuters]

More than one designer in Milan has caught boogie fever, with mirrored accents on skirts (Missoni), tops (Philosophy by Alberta Ferretti) and dresses (Roccobarocco) that remind us of disco balls. [photos courtesy Style.it]

Related Links: See yourself shining.

There was some focus on fringe in the Milan spring 2008 collections. Krizia and Just Cavalli took a full-frontal showgirl-style approach, while Giorgio Armani and Burberry limited themselves to fringe-y decorations. [images courtesy Style.it and Yahoo!]

Related Links: I guess ultimately we have Prada to thank for that one.

Styles come and go so fast, what's a gal to do if she still likes leggings (horrors!) or skinny jeans (so last season)? Go ahead and call 'em something else -- treggings, for super-skinny but light trousers -- and keep on going. [via Style File]

We made fun of Paula Abdul's bra-baring dress from the Emmys, but she's looking more and more trendsetting as days go own. Witness the asymmetrical necklines from Alessandro Dell'Acqua and Luciano Soprani's respective spring collections from Milan over the weekend, Reese Witherspoon's Nina Ricci dress on the October cover of Elle, and last, but not least, Nicole Kidman's total undergarment exposure on the cover of Vanity Fair.

Here's yet another reason to not wear Crocs -- they just might kill you. Reports of the colorful, Swiss-cheese-style plastic clogs getting sucked into escalators are on the rise. One child nearly lost his foot: "His mother managed to yank him free," reported the Associated Press, "but the nail on his big toe was almost completely ripped off, causing heavy bleeding." Going to the hospital won't save you from Crocs, either -- they're planning a special line just for medical professionals. Word to the wise -- if you can't part with your Crocs, take the stairs. [via Radar]

Related Links: Why wear those clogs when cuter ones abound?

Bold graphics that make more than a nod to African textiles made an appearance in several spring 2008 collections, including, left to right, Oscar de la Renta, Donna Karan New York, Diane von Furstenburg and Temperley. Beading and the safari jacket (in a kind of creepy imperialist nod) are also part of the trend.

While a few dresses from Isabel Toledo's inspiration came from paint smudges left on a dress accidentally by her artist husband, other designers were more literal in their paint-smeared garments. Dresses by Helmut Lang, Narcisco Rodriguez and Jason Wu looked like the model had been rolled in paint beforehand. [photos courtesy Style.com and New York magazine]

At least two designers showed shoes for guys with wraparound straps for ankles this week. Lacoste had a black and white version, and Z Zenga showed them in beige. Man-espadrilles seem a bit improbable to catch on, not just for their ballerina connotation, but because the influx of cropped pants and short shorts is calling for all us dudes to spend a lot of money on conspicuously placed socks.

Related Links: This "man-erina" shoe is vaguely reminiscent of when everyone was wearing gladiator sandals.

A few of next season's long, gorgeous, color-blocked gowns. From Michael Kors, Malandrino, Nicole Miller and Threeasfour.

Here's a style to look forward to for next spring -- several designers showcased slouchy metallic dresses in varying shades from golden to gunmetal. Here's some of our favorites from (left to right) Helmut Lang, Vera Wang, Chaiken, Costello Tagliapietra, and ADAM. [photos courtesy Style.com and New York magazine]

Related Links: Get the look now.

Let's hope you didn't send too much of last spring's white wardrobe to the Salvation Army -- whites and neutrals seem to be a big story for next spring as well. Here's some samples from the nearly all-white spring 2008 collections from Peter Som, Threeasfour, Ohne Titel (run by two former Karl Lagerfeld alums), Berardi and Y & Kei. [photos via Style.com]

Related Links: Time's always right for white.

Ford Models, Alejandra and Yara play dress up in some of Fall's hottest looks.

Acid greens and yellows made for standout dresses in the collections of Carlos Miele, Stephen Burrows, Nicole Miller and Jason Wu. Overall, lots of collections are showing another wave of whites and neutrals for spring 2008, so a little color will go a long way. [photos via Style.com]

Related Links: Can't hurt to throw in some brights.

The latest JC Report is basically an homage to all designers Asian. There are the beloved standards -- Doo Ri, Philip Lim, Peter Som -- as well as some up-and-comers, like Thai-born Koi Suwannagate and and Vietnam-born Thuy Diep. As a half-Asian myself, I appreciate the props to my people, but part of me wonders if someone over at JC has been hit with yellow fever. [left to right, Derek Lam, Alexander Wang, Thuy, and Koi]

Related Links: Got the fever? Try Da-Nang.

The asymmetrical shoulder is making a strong showing in the spring 2008 collections. Some of the most interesting ones came from Rachel Roy (be sure to check out her entire collection, it's a good one), Alexandre Herchcovitch, Sue Stemp (although that dress borders on disco/Xanadu with that headband) and Abaete.

Related Links: Get the look.

Fashion changes with the seasons, but as climate change alters the seasons themselves, what will happen to our wardrobes? Perhaps not the biggest problem we face with global warming, the Wall Street Journal nevertheless muses on this question, noting that longer summers, shorter winters and our climate-controlled environment have meant fewer coats and sweaters and more layering.

Related Links: Diesel claims to be global warming ready.

The world's most regal color is ready to take over this fall. Of course you saw it on the runways in dresses like this little Lanvin number, and WWD has noticed the color used sparingly by celebs such as Catherine Zeta-Jones and Katie Holmes -- a purple shoe here and there. Does Purple magazine care? Of course not.

Related Links: Get on it.

Would you ever pay $300 for a pair of socks? You might someday. Our willingness to $300 for a pair of jeans opens doors to increased prices everywhere, says Fast Company magazine, which describes exactly how products go from boring staples ($50 Levi's) to luxury must-haves ($300 True Religion) in just a few years.

Related Links: The name says it all.

All things must come to an end, and for me, no trend should end sooner than the bubble dress. In its place comes fall's hard angles and clothes that fit rather than clothes that make us all look like enormous balloons. New York magazine chronicles the birth, rebirth and death of volume in The End of the Blob.

Related Links: Nothing wrong with a subtle bubble.

Though they are decidedly retro, bamboo earrings have become so popular that they look poised to become a new-school standard. Actress Megan Good has been rocking hers for a while, as have Hilary Duff, Lily Allen and Rihanna, whose stylists says she combs the streets in Brooklyn and Manhattan for hers. That's what's great about ghetto "door-knockers" -- their cheapness and availability. Surely it won't be long before we see them "interpreted" on a runway, so why not jump ahead of the curve and get yours engraved with "Dior" or "D&G"?

Related Links: Lily Allen loves to pair a cute, girly dress with door-knockers and funky sneakers.

Fall minimalism is just around the corner. We can't wait, and neither can T, the New York Times Style Magazine. Check out their sleek spread featuring some of the season's best, from Maison Martin Margiela (pictured) along with kings of simplicity Jil Sander and Calvin Klein.

I've seen this look before -- in the mirror, circa 8th grade. Black bodysuit? Check. Hammer pants? Check. Black booties (not pictured)? Check. The overall shape has been popping up here and there, but no one has channeled my favorite look in 1989 so successfully. Thanks, Fashionista.com, for the memories.

Related Links: Start with the bodysuit and go from there.

Good news for any fashion week crashers out there: Behnaz Sarafpour sent out digital PDFs rather than slash trees to invite people to her show at Exit Art on Sept. 7th. So not only is she saving a tree or ten, with a little luck and some clever graphic design, you could print your own and try to get in yourself. But you didn't hear it from me. [via Style File]

Related Links: If you're gonna get in, you've got to dress right.

Leopard print never really goes away, and the September 2007 cover of Vogue Paris proves that the animals are back again, especially when wearing head-to-toe Givenchy haute couture. [via Fashionologie]

Speaking of rehab chic, the above image, from Italian Vogue's "fun take on rehab," is getting more than a few people in a tizzy for its graphic depiction of life in the looney house. But hey, these days it takes a lot -- including nudity and head-shaving -- to sell a dress. [via Times (UK)]

Tired of the lack of fashion addicts on Facebook or MySpace? Fear not, joining Iqons in making an online world just for fashion fiends, StyleMob offers a place to share bargains, post looks and dork out on style. We love their contests, like Trend Confessions and Clothes You Covet, taken secretly from within retail dressing rooms. [via New York Daily News]

The death of denim has been predicted since the beginning of this year, so we figured it's time to take stock -- is denim over? Well, the dress has definitely taken over as the uniform of the trendy for the summer, with every shape from babydoll to long halter-style gowns seen on the streets. But labels are still churning out new styles of premium denim, from brightly colored jeans to good ol' skinny jeans, and denim is a staple, after all.

Thom Browne and now Aquascutum are making tailored suits for women, but do women really want to wear them? Office attire has strayed far from the power-suit's heyday in the 80s (aside from lawyers, of course), with a more loose, feminine look for work. Could the suit be on the rise? Would you wear one?

Against all odds, hoodies that zip up into face masks with eye holes have made it into U.S. shops without getting banned. This fetching leather skeleton hoodie was selling in a men's store on New York's Lower East Side for a cool $999.99. Why on earth would anyone want one? Intent to commit a fashion crime is the only reason I can think of.

Related Links: Not all hoodies are evil.

Any popular trend comes with an inevitable backlash. Where is that hippie skirt you loved so much during the boho summer of 2005? What happened to those flared jeans that you loved so much just a couple years back? And this seasons' skinny jeans worn with babydoll tops, Wayfarers, ballet flats and Anya Hindmarch tote? One day, you will be embarrassed to call them your own. So as fall's new silhouette emerges and takes over, you might be tempted to carry one of these.

Related Links: What goes around comes around...

Think your boyfriend's stack of old Marvel comics and your of-the-moment wardrobe have nothing in common? Think again. Hot on the tail of a star-studded Comic-Con 2007, Elle magazine reveals the peculiar influence of comics on fashion. Pictured here, left to right, Dolce & Gabbana, DSquared, Bora Aksu, and Maison Martin Margiela -- all fall 2007.

Related Links: Diane Von Furstenberg wants you to be a superhero too

Prada has a way with socks, and every fall we find ourselves swooning for whatever Miuccia has done with the unglamorous garment. Style Bubble has found a way to re-create Prada's colorful layered hosiery with a pair of scissors and a couple of trips to K-mart. Finding a way to do those gorgeous heels on the cheap is entirely up to you.

Related Links: Here's a start.

Even better than those rhyming British tees with oversized type are these "designer" tees by Darkhorse from Toronto. Paper magazine noticed them and we love them, too, especially, "A Fendi Bag and a Bad Attitude." Do you have any more tee ideas for these guys?

Related Links: Just add the bad attitude.

With the zeitgeist currently fixated on Marge Simpson, Amy Winehouse and the (relentless, right?) promotion of the movie "Hairspray," could the beehive be ready for a real return? Some on the beauty beat say yes. One writer says the trick is day-old dirty hair; should this appear in runways, it probably won't be a problem for many models as they're up for days anyway.

Related Links: empire waists go great with tall hair.

The ladylike way to ward off the chill of the air-conditioner -- the mini-blazer -- has made wearing a jacket in summer not seem like such a nutty idea after all, especially over a cute lil' dress. New York magazine details some of the best from the season from Twelfth Street ("Typically, I fell for the only full-priced item on the rack." Girl, we know what you mean.) to Forever 21 ("It seemed kind of tacky, but once on, it looked more tailored and sophisticated." Ditto.) From left to right, Twelfth Street, Forever 21 and BCBG.

Related Links: This blazer's extra cute and it's on sale.

Want to show that you are absolutely swimming in money? Then consider buying this $80,000 24-carat gold swimsuit. Surely it'll last longer than Lycra and as long as you don't hit any nudist beaches, no one can steal it from you.

Related Links: Or maybe not.

Fashion's return to modesty is trickling down to the masses -- and with nice effect. Take this adorable little number, found on Long Island's Jones Beach. It's not-so-itsy-bitsy, not-so-teeny-weeny style is a refreshing breather from the Brazil-cut bikinis of season's past.

Related Links: we're seeing polka dot bikinis.

... but womenswear still reigns. Despite the lack of luxe and luster at the men's shows this season, there were some standouts, from names big and small. Left to right, Dior Homme, Patrik Ervell, Ute Ploier, Lanvin. For more scoop, check the JC Report's Menswear Issue.

Related Links: Man shorts make a statement.

The trend of snapping pedestrian street style and posting it on blogs has caught on -- and fashionistas say it's a good thing. It warms my heart to see street looks in Portland evolving on a daily basis (no fleece in sight!) and sites cropping up that encourage us to share sartorial tips with each other. Lord knows I can learn more about dressing well from pedestrians than celebrities whose stylists should be fired.

Related Links: Be a model of style in a hot summer safari dress.

News that the investment arm of the oil-rich Dubai government has bought uber-hip retailer Barneys from Jones Apparel should come as no surprise. After all, Dubai is known as the luxury-gobbling Vegas of the Middle Eeast. But how weird is it that it's the government doing the investing? Think of how odd it would be if say, the U.S. Federal Treasury bought Collette in France or Harrod's in Britain. [via New York Times]

Fall collections by Benjamin Cho, Armani and Erdem all took flights of fancy by using butterfly motifs. Could butterflies be the next skulls/owls/deer? Thanks to Style.com for noticing.

Baggy jeans are out in Louisiana. No, seriously. Mayor Carol Broussard has signed an ordinance in Delcambre, La., literally banning saggy pants that expose underwear or body parts. Fines range from up to $500 to even six months in jail. If only equally fashion-conscious politicos would get busy in other cities. Maybe we could see an end to men's "go-out shirts", stupid slogan tees and back hair in our lifetimes.

These slim-cut jeans help hip hop boys walk without waddling. (foto from dallasnews.com)

So, the Times is saying that hippies aren’t getting credit where credit is due –- today’s major fashion trends. And while I respectfully disagree (How many times have you read "hippie chic" in the past couple months?), they may have a point. Maybe it's because hippie fashion’s roots are so anti-consumer and anti-fashion –- think Army surplus, handmade, and -– eesh –- tie-dye. Or that the homegrown and natural has trickled up so far that we now we have piggy-bank-breaking boutique eco-fashion. Or maybe all the celeb costuming, see photo, has killed it. It's a conundrum, no? How to resolve the disconnect between a stack of $1,400 bracelets and the desire to look down at your arm and marvel at your own "soulfullness." Power to the people, it ain't.

Related Links: Be a hippie or just shop like one.

We are loving the variations on the traditional french tip seen everywhere from the CFDA awards to an upcoming fall campaign for Dior. The green and pink french tips seen here are from Dior, and they kinda look like what maybe a lime-flavored or watermelon-flavored candy corn might look like. The highlighter-yellow french tip? It's just good. So good.

Do you buy jeans that won't let you bend over? Have you purchased shoes that don't allow you to walk? Have you worn skirts that make sitting or moving absolutely impossible? If so, you might have a problem. Tell us, truly: do you suffer from debilitating fashion syndrome (DFS)? If so, learn more about other women who have been disabled by her denim, hobbled by Hussein Chalayan, and burdened by Balenciaga. [via Times (U.K.)

The growing acceptance of the murse has given way to the disturbing trend of indy-chic tote bags for guys and I’ve just got to ask what’s next? Sunhats? Slides? Dudes, stop it please. Do you know what you’re saying to the world? You are screaming: “I enjoy light beer, street fairs and teaching English as a second language.” Stash your iPod and laminates in your back pockets and leave the totes where they belong: dangling from the handlebars of Marc Jacobs scooters and stuffed beneath the car seats of grannies intent on taking their knitting with them everywhere.

Related Links: Just ditch the skinny jeans and your problem’s solved.

Model Andi Muise was spotted wearing biker shorts layered under a jumper and Fashionista wonders if spandex could be a beginning of a new trend; after all, American Apparel carries them. But we do wonder about the age-old old camel toe problem, captured so brilliantly by the group Fanny Pack: "her spandex biker shorts were creepin up the front / I could see her uterus / her pants were too tight." But that's not the only problem with spandex. One commenter on Fashionista wrote, "If those things come back into style I'm buying stock in Monistat."

Speaking of shoes, the Saks shoe department just got its own zip code -- what's the deal? Do shoes send and receive mail? Other than a publicity stunt to promote Saks's 8th floor shoe department, at least this explains why postal workers have been so busy they can't seem to help anyone waiting in line. Send complaints to Saks, NYC, NY, 10022-SHOE.

Related Links: I'd write a love letter to these.

Danish entrepreneur Steen Knigge, center, opened Hus, New York's first Scandinavian lifestyle boutique, in response to a growing urban market for high-quality goods from the lands of the ice and snow. "It's functional, it's fairly minimalistic and, while people think of it as cold, it has a particular kind of warmth to it," says Knigge, describing the appeal of Nordic design. The new Christopher Street shop, which features well-known Scandinavian brands like Tiger of Sweden, right, and Marimekko (of Finland, left) alongside the work of lesser-known designers, is less a well-heeled cousin to the H&M on Broadway and the IKEA over in Elizabeth, NJ, than a showplace for good regional design. Swedish pop fans take note -- this Wednesday Efva Attling, the Swedish fashion model who went on to 80's pop-star fame as a member of the X Models, will be presenting her line of chunky silver and gold jewelry at Hus.

Related Links: Isn't it good, Norwegian wood?

Between Brett Ratner's shots of a helicopter-bound Heather Marks from the fall Jimmy Choo campaign, this adorable United Airlines uniform circa 1968 - 1970, unearthed by retro airline obsessed Catwalk Queen, and of course Chanel's 2008 resort collection set in an airline hangar complete with a Chanel plane, it seems designers have gone nuts for the skies.

Related Links: This Abaete dress would lend style to any flight attendant professional.

Meet the Gen Art Styles 2007 accessories nominees and see what's up and coming in the world of jewelry. Who wouldn't want to wear chandelier earrings made from cutout gold chandeliers, created by Jib and Genoa Jewelry? Yarborough has got a bunch of witty stuff, including rings and pendants made from woven leather buttons and bangles and cuffs covered with cable-knit wool. We also love the mysterious and vintage looks coming from Black Sheep & Prodigal Sons, who work with nautical themes, ram skulls and distressed materials to create what feels like an undiscovered treasure trove of booty. [via Coutorture]

Related Links: More treasures here.

Handbags this season are all things big and small -- Coutorture notes that handbag trends follow very well the laws of physics: for every action there is an equal and opposite reaction. So, naturally, the giant handbag must be followed by the teeny tiny handbag. But physics does not address the fact that both handbags seem to be everywhere at once, with some designers, such as Chanel and Bottega Veneta, placing their bets on both. All sizes are right this season, whether you need to carry a $20 and a lipstick or your iPod, a book, lunch, a water bottle, your yoga mat, several dogs...

Related Links: Go big, go small, it doesn't matter.

A new book, "Chasing Cool," by the man who made Barneys the "coolest store in the world," dissects what it means to set trends, and in the midst, reveals some fun Barneys history. Gene Pressman's grandfather founded Barneys in 1923 as a men's discount store, and his father worked to transform the store into an upscale mecca. "No American designers wanted to sell to us because they thought we were a discount store," Pressman told the Financial Times, "so we had to go to Europe and find new designers, who maybe thought we were interesting because we were downtown, not realizing that at that time, no one shopped downtown." Thus, Armani, Versace, Issey Miyake were duped into becoming global brands.

In a folio on springtime's green trends, Elle features all-cork shoes as a witty and eco-friendly look to pick up. Why Kork-Ease hasn't gotten into the game is beyond us. Which one would you go for -- the Donald Pliner wedge, left, strappy sandals by Michael Kors, center, of the Nine West pumps at right?

Related Links: Enough to stuff several thousand wine bottles.

The approach of summer in the city means it's time for flip-flops and cheap sneakers. This weekend I shook $20 out of my change jar and headed down to the Payless Fashion Lab in Soho, one of three special-format stores the cut-rate shoe manufacturer is testing in upscale shopping districts of NYC. The Lab had less of a ransacked stockroom feel than a run-of-the-mill Payless, with styles fetchingly displayed on top of shelves holding neatly stacked shoe boxes, but I'm happy to say the fire-sale prices remained in effect. I zeroed in on a pair of Jack Purcell knock-offs (sale price: $16.99). While riffling through stacked boxes searching for my size (which they were out of), I met Janice, a Florida native grumbling about the Fashion Lab's confounding layout. "In a regular Payless the boxes are kind of open," she wistfully said," and you get a sense of all the styles and sizes..." We both left the Lab empty-handed that day searching for an old-school Payless in a dodgier neighborhood.

Related Links: There's cheap and then there's a bargain.

Each season, emphasis is said to fall upon some random body part, usually one of the big three -- legs, chest or hips. But we like it when someone picks a random body part and declares it sexy. That's why we're so pleased the New York Times has declared the collarbone the "it" body part of the season. Let's play fashion psychic -- what body part do you think will be big next season? The back of the knee? How about the elbow?

Related Links: Something to go with that Moschino dress she's wearing.

With all the T&A long displayed on the catwalks (Rock & Republic comes to mind with their "Pimps & Hos" themed runway show), and certain B-listers heading out pantyless, we knew it wouldn't be long before the crotch shot became a normal part of life on the catwalk. At least, that's what they're doing at fashion week down under. [via Fashionising]

Platform shoes were a common sight in the not-so-distant '70s, as were the Cuban-heeled Beatle boots that preceded them. So it's really no surprise that more designers -- Hedi Slimane, YSL and Marjan Pejoski, pictured here -- have joined Rick Owens in giving man-heels a whirl. I think it's a hot look, but will it catch on? Here's what the experts had to say:

Jimmy Webb, skull-and-bones haberdasher, Trash and Vaudeville, NYC: "In Visconti's 'The Damned'...at the end, when the guy's wearing the fishnets and high heels, it looks f***ing amazing... but don't wear heels if you can't walk in them."

Malcolm, our own unflinching style-scribe: "Some fashionista man is probably going to make the case of them being a throwback to the mid-evil era or something, but they’re just too, too queened-out. It looks crazy."

Alan Epstein, a 30-year veteran of menswear, B&G Clothes, Bronx, NY: "A guy wearing that would get beat up in this neighborhood."

Harold Oshrin, men's designer shoes, Barneys New York: "You've got to be young and trendy and thin and going out." He points to a customer who looks like he just sauntered over from The Box, whispering, "He would wear them." Said customer comes over to see what's up, takes a gander at the above pic and says, "I'd buy the whole outfit. Beautiful work."

Related Links: Can we at least agree on the the pants?

Forget the heinous book of the same name, this season's return to modesty comes in the form of high-fashion, retro-sexy swimsuits, a la Scarlett Johansson in Vogue. And any turban warriors out there, rejoice -- headpieces have been sanctioned, if not encouraged. In the words of Los Angeles Times fashion writer Booth Moore, "Now that we've seen nearly everyone in Hollywood naked, there's something to be said for covering up." Amen.

Related Links: DKNY does demure.

Prompted by the recent buzz about whether or not certain types of cars are gay, makes us wonder if there is such a thing as a gay store. It's likely that anything too campy or quick to interpret runway trends is gay for men, which makes H&M like the Roxy on Saturday night. Fred Segal -- with its rhinestones and grooming products -- might be bi-curious, yet Barneys and Marc Jacobs, for all their dry humor, are practical enough to ultimately be straight. For the ladies, a gay brand might have built itself on the idea of power suits and severe, dominating attire like Donna Karan; it would likely be leading the charge to bring back the shoulder pad. Conversely, Eileen Fisher, with its muted, Earth-woman palette screams Sappho.

Related Links: Ted Baker? Straight. Dolce & Gabbana? Don't ask.

Fashionista's new video feature -- what's inside your bag? -- shows us what's inside the giant handbags of ordinary boys and girls in New York. We are impressed by how many people let Faran rummage through their stuff. But she is so sweet about it, even the staunchest civil libertarian would likely melt.

Led by -- who else? -- Prada, the fringed handbag trend is less old west and more about texture. Prada, left, and Gucci, right, got pretty hairy, while Versace's version, center, seems to have had a trim. The requisite celebs have been spotted with the Prada version, but not everybody likes it. Having been given a free 'Indy' handbag by Gucci, British musician Lily Allen proclaimed the metallic fringed thing "f-ing vile." [via International Herald Tribune]

Related Links: This one goes long.

Ever wonder how the pocket protector got its start? Me neither, but any nerd worth his short-sleeved white dress shirt could tell you that it was a promotional product designed to sell slip-on vinyl covers for loose-leaf binders. The good news is that they're not back. Instead, a pocket protector with a far nobler history (think Louis XVI and Cary Grant) seems to be enjoying a mini-revival: the debonair pocket square. Those in the know advise a "casual, not too studied look" -- more pouf-y than flat top. But the suave square's probably not for everyone—particularly the guy who likes to use that pocket to carry spare change. [photos courtesy Men.Style.com, the Sartorialist and Diary at the Centre of the Earth]

Related Links: Then there's the guy who avoids the issue completely.

New York's other fashion week -- bridal, that is -- is wrapping up. It's not everyday fashion, true, but it is the one shot most of us regular folk have at trying on something that approaches the likes of couture. New York magazine has outlined some of this year's major themes -- black and white; bows, blossoms and frills; designer; two-piece; and subtle sex appeal. A couple of my faves, left to right, from Elizbeth Fillmore, (the normally underwhelming) Marchesa, and Oscar de la Renta. A girl can dream, can't she?

Related Links: Always a bridesmaid, never a bride.

Speaking of the 80s, some pretty insane leggings are on display in London right now. Style Bubble showed us some British hipsters wearing brightly colored and garishly patterned ones, pictured, and catsuit-obsessed designer Gareth Pugh showed up at a party in London last night in pink leopard print ones. Seeing how far ahead London has been lately, fashion-wise, we might have to wait before those crazy legs trickle down here, thought I have seen some hot metallic legs around lately.

Related Links: Why not start early?

I always say I'm about to "go Naomi" up in the office when things don't go my way (example: "If the IT department does not fix this computer, I will go Naomi on someone's ass!"). But my new catchphrase might be quickly losing its potency here in Virginia. This state has got an awful rep as a haven for gun nuts, a stigma horribly reinforced by the recent shooting -- the worst in American history. Given the climate and our gun laws, me threatening to "go Naomi" over a parking space may not be safe. And I surely won't be using it in the airports (where customer service people are just asking for a cell phone upside the head) for fear of being called a terrorist. Perhaps I'll just reserve it for places where Naomi would "go Naomi" -- restaurants, clothing boutiques, hotels and, I guess, a cell phone store.

Related Links: Remember that "Sex and the City" episode where a gunman demanded Carrie's cute shoes? Girl, don't fuss, just hand them over.

What do Transumers, Swaparamists and Freegans all have in common? They all have issues with shopping. Transumers don't commit to buying anything, preferring instead to borrow or lease, Swaparamists would rather trade garments than shop for them, and Freegans are up for a bargain of the totally free variety. Even if you love shopping, you have to admit a grain of truth in the prank stickers left on products by Adbusters in honor of Buy Nothing Day, which read: "Why bother? I'll be obsolete in six months." [illustration from DeMontfort U.]

Related Links: We're not saying stop shopping, we're just saying buy smarter.

Of Style.com's Top 10 accessories for Fall '07, one has already trickled down with lightning speed: Nicolas Ghesquiere's dressed-up keffiyeh. I happened to be on the U.C.L.A. campus this week -- not necessarily the bastion of fashion-forward dressing -- and counted at least three young co-eds sporting impressive knock-off looks when class let out, and there was a window full of them at Urban Outfitters. And, with trend coverage all the way down in New Zealand, this one's going global -- and fast.

Related Links: Scarving from head to toe.

Could cosmeceuticals soon invade the world of handbags. It seems so. At a recent party in London Kimberly Stewart told Vogue.com that her love of shiny things had no bounds, claiming, "Even the snakeskin clutch I'm carrying tonight has been treated with Botox to make it extra-glossy." We're pretty sure she was joking, but can you imagine a better way to achieve volume than a little collagen filler or a touch of silicon.

Related Links: Has this handbag had "work done"?

Body Count Mittens creator Lisa Ann Auerbach is one of the growing number of hip knitters using needles to get their point across. A number of knitting circles around the country have adopted the time-honored practice of wartime knitting to generate protest knits like Stitch for Senate, artist Cat Mazza's campaign to knit helmet-liners for pencil-pushing U.S. Senators. Amy Figueriedo, founding member of Hoboken-based Gaia collective explains, "What we're doing is building a network of expertise as well as relationships." Is making gloves, a viable alternative to making war? "I just think it's super-interesting how within a generation something like this was completely lost and now it's coming back again," Figueriedo says.

Related Links: Can a macramé revival be far behind?

The look was spotted on the fall 2007 runways of Thakoon, Gaultier and Nina Ricci, left to right. But that hasn't kept good ol' Urban Outfitters from selling feathered headpieces well ahead of the curve, notes Fashionologie. If you're lucky enough to live in a big city with a wholesale feather store, you can also make a headdress of your own.

Related Links: Feathered and fabulous.

Predicting trends can be a slippery thing. One Fashion Spot forum wonders what could possibly follow the popularity of the skull motif. Some guess the smiley face will be big as new rave goes mass and yellow becomes big for spring, others think anchors will get even bigger with the popularity of navy and white, some think playing card motifs, especially hearts, will be popular. Only time will tell, right??

As designers embrace the nouveau lucite stripper-heel, last year's giant jewels have moved from the top of shoes to the soles of your sandals. Appearing in stores now are Marc Jacobs crystal-heeled shoes, Viktor & Rolf's chandelier-esque sandals and Casadei's smoked lucite pumps. Fashion IQ has plenty of lucite to look at.

Related Links: Walk on air.

The latest issue of Vogue makes a case for shoulder pads, insisting that the old-is-new-again linebacker shoulders can make you look inches taller. Personally, I don't see how bigger shoulders can make you look taller without making your neck disappear (just like Martin Margiela's model, pictured here).

Related Links: I like my shoulders as they are, thank you very much.

I hate to quote Perez Hilton -- I'm going to front like I don't check it every few hours -- but as he's proclaimed, high-waisted wide-legged pants are back and could quite possibly be the next skinny jean. (Perez called them bell-bottoms, but we forgive him.) R&B singer Ciara worked a pair of Stella McCartneys in her "Promise" video, as did Kelis in "Bossy" last year. And of course Scarlett Johansson killed them for Imitation of Christ and Scissor Sisters frontman Jake Shears looks fond of high-waisted pants in general too. They're definitely cute, left, but do have the potential to creep into "Mom Jean" territory, center, or high-water hell, right.

Related Links: For now, you still can't go wrong with a good skinny jean and a killer heel.

We all knew it was coming. We all knew it would happen again. Yes,the ankle-zipper is back, ready to strap those skinny jeans as tightly as possible to your legs (seen here on Gwen Stefani). I remember begging for these as a fourth-grader in the 1980s and once I got my super-tight Guess ankle-zipper jeans, I wore little else. If you're not into it, look on the bright side: this skinnifying of the skinny jean may be just the thing to kill stovepipes once and for all. [via Style Dash]

Related Links: Go for it.

Can't decide which Louis Vuitton bag to wear? Hell, just wear 'em all. The House of Vuitton tossed last year's remainders in a wood chipper and whipped up this charming calico. Weighing in at about 40 pounds and costing no more than a year at Harvard, or a new barn, this bag is the ultimate "it" for the hayseed heiress who can't get enough coverage.

Related Links: Still can't decide? Slip a Fendi clutch inside, just in case.

Animal motifs on sweaters, long relegated to grandma's closet, seem to have made the big time on the runways. Stella McCartney's polar bear sweater, left, looks primed to get snapped up by a weird old aunt rather than a fashionista cruising the meatpacking district. Even Chanel got cutesy by slapping a penguin onto cashmere, right. And Karl's love of animals didn't stop there -- apparently he made some faux croc clutches out of jersey, telling the New York Times, "It's eco-friendly Chanel."

Related Links: Canvas sandals from Chanel.

You've embraced the leggings, the neon, the bubble skirts and other vestiges from the 1980s. But are you ready for the return of shoulder pads? Martin Margiela is prepared to outfit you with all your power suit needs with clothes from his fall 2007 collection, all of which feature linebacker-style shoulders probably last seen on an episode of "Designing Women."

Related Links: I prefer naked shoulders, myself.

Karl Lagerfeld will be the latest in a long line of designers who book back-to-back shows to accommodate demand by fashion addicts, photographers, buyers and reporters when he runs two Fendi shows back to back. Giorgio Armani, Donatella Versace and Gucci designer Frida Giannini have already mastered the art of crowd control. [via Fashion Wear Daily]

Related Links: So nice, you'll see it twice.

We love how Yigal Azrouel put a bunch of his models in giant geeky glasses, and hope that H&M's "Beauty and the Geek" spread and of course Viktor & Rolf all mean that at least looking smart is in. I'll go grab my pocket protector.

Related Links: Get your geek on.

Old Russian ladies had their moment during New York's fashion week when the likes of Vera Wang, Anne Klein, TSE and Marc Jacobs outfitted models in head scarves that were more babushka than glamorous Grace Kelly. More good news for bad hair days.

Related Links: Throw on a scarf and you're done.

Gloomy gray was a popular alternative to black on the runways, deepening into a gunmental gray. The color was featured heavily in the collections of
Calvin Klein, J. Mendel, Malo, Michael Kors and Myself.

Related Links: Gray is the way.

Marc Jacobs, Jill Stuart, even sportswear staples Y-3 and Diesel got into the glove game for fall 2007, in looks that ranged from sweet and ladylike to tough dominatrix.

Related Links: No glove, no love.

Tons of gratuitous fur has turned up on cuffs, boots, hats and even dress trim for the fall 2007 collections. From left to right, a Michael Kors fur minidress(??), Isaac Mizrahi fur-trim dress paired with fur cuff boots, Anna Sui's hairy-palmed gloves, and Heatherette's fur stole warms up a bikini. Not only is fur is bad for a label's image, but it also jacks up the prices of a given garment. The fur industry is surely proud -- so where is PETA?

Related Links: Let's hope designers turn to faux.

Between actress-and-drunk-driver Michelle Roriguez' fake ankle monitor at the Marc Jacobs show and Isaac Mizrahi in a wheelchair at his own show (he fractured his pelvis in a car accident), the stylish cyborg theme for this spring was really brought home.

Related Links: Feel like a robot, or just look like one.

Peek-a-boo cutouts have appeared in several fall 2007 collections, from demure, ladylike lace to dramatic glamazon slits. From left to right, Carolina Herrera, Bruce, Abaete, Kai Milla (not only does she have a great collection, but she is married to Stevie Wonder) and Ellen Tracy.

Related Links: Cute cutouts.

You won't have seen the end of metallic fabrics by next fall. Abaete, Threeasfour, Lela Rose, Tracy Reese all showed variations on shiny and metallic fabrics slated to be popular for spring. [via Style.com]

Related Links: Metallic fabrics will last you through next winter.

Bold oversize prints appeared in the collections of DVF, Alice Roi, Threeasfour, and Matthew Williamson, left to right, making the giant print a possible signature of fall 2007. Not only will you be impossible to miss even when across the room, but someone might even play a game of Q-bert on your chest (far right). [pics courtesy of Style.com]

Related Links: Get big now.

After years of being the guy who doesn't get the girl and gets sand kicked in his face, the skinny male at least rules the runway. Underfed men and beanpoles strutted for Balenciaga, Viktor & Rolf and of course, the one who made skinny dudes haute, Hedi Slimane for Dior. The International Herald Tribune's Suzy Menkes notes that skinny male model don't seem to cause the same alarm that size-0 ladies do.

Related Links: The smaller fellows get the best picks from sales, too.

Fashion is so confounding these days. If you're Sienna Miller and you wear giant granny underwear with tights in public, the media will call you fashion-forward, a la Prada's spring 2007 collection. If you're Katie Holmes on the way to the Armani show and you accidentally show off your control-top briefs, it's just not kosher.

Related Links: Put the underwear down under.

Acid Pop Tart, star fashion writer at Gothic Beauty, a quarterly fashion mag for Goths, tells South Florida's Sun Sentinel the whole black thing is over and designers are now creating outfits in the full spectrum of neon-bright colors. Children of darkness, nouveau ravers, and 1980s rehashers take note: attic insulation pink is the new black.

Related Links: Fads will come and go but true love never dies.

Musing over the eco-mightmare of cheap clothing from places like H&M, where garments practically disintegrate upon a washing or two. It's great for the fashion cycle and your wallet, but lousy for the environment. The best solution? Forgo cheap chic in favor of green chic in classic styles as suggested by the JC Report -- you can always say you're doing it for the environment.

Related Links: Could buying expensive things be eco-friendly?

Which trendy New York women have been dropping their jeans as Big Apple temperatures fall? Those who have arrived. A hard-nosed reporter at the New York Post got inside the coatcheck room of a hot Manhattan eatery who delivered the following scoop: "A lot of women...wear those really pretty kimono-style dresses and wear jeans under them in the cold. When they get inside, they take them off and check their jeans with their coats." Gentlemen, can you believe your luck?

Related Links: Still, try and keep your shirt on, at least through the entrée.

Pointing to music that inspired certain runway looks, the New Zealand Herald outlines how to dress to your favorite tunes -- particularly indie (Hedi Slimane), rave (Gareth Pugh) and grunge (Marc Jacobs). We wonder what kind of music to tie to other recent spring 2007 trends cited by Style.com -- techno (Balenciaga's futurism), classical (floral and romantic YSL), and maybe jock jams (Jean Paul Gaultier's sporty looks)?

It seems like a natural progression from super skinny jeans to leggings -- but for guys? Yet men in tights were what Marni sent down the runway for her fall 2007 menswear collection. Of all trends to trickle from women's to menswear for next fall, we bet this one never hits the malls. [photo from Fashion Wire Daily]

Related Links: Ladies love 'em -- but for dudes? Only the most fashion-forward.

Okay, vegans, time to lose the ratty hemp sweater and smelly vinyl boots. The next generation of organic fashion is upon us and Stella McCartney, always the arbiter of conscientious style, has inspired a new audience for smaller labels such as Moral Fiber and Novacas. These lines offer a tailored, hip look to the crunchy set -- and keep them from looking like Yanni.

Related Links: Cute, yet crunchy, organic denim from Loomstate.

The skinny on being skinny will be further examined during fashion week, when the Council of Fashion Designers of America officially unveils its initiatives for healthy models, two of which include more snacks and more sleep -- sounds like kindergarten.

Prada's leather robot keychains, sexy cell phones abnd Blackberries made robots hot accessories, but thanks to Balenciaga (pictured) and Hussein Chalayan's spring 2007 collections and the cyborg proportions of models like Raquel Zimmerman (also pictured), now everyone wants to be a robot, too.

Related Links: Be a bot or just carry one.

Mannequins are starting to regrow breasts, and not just in Los Angeles and Miami, homes to the altered woman. Because Americans never do anything in a small way, we've gone from fashionably flat to gigantic bazooms. [via Fashion Week Daily]

Of all places to sport a pair of precarious YSL platform spike boots, we would not choose the icy streets of Aspen, Colorodo. But some women must get their style on, no matter the weather, and it's so nice to see some better fashion on the ice. [via Off the Rack]

Related Links: Anything for YSL.

Cool temperatures out East, blizzards in the Rockies and extra-cold out West have us all confused for winter, so let's fast-forward to good ol' spring. The editors over at Glamour schooled CBS News on the five things you'll need for the next season, so take note: high-waisted pants, an oversized bag, platform shoes (preferably patent leather), an above-the-knee slim trench, and a sheath dress. And while we're at it, it's time to study those spring colors and take a peek at Radar's most pretentious looks.

Related Links: Through the seasons with Prada.

As we look back on 2006, a few fashion figures stand out. Number of times supermodel Naomi Campbell was accused of assaulting her assistants: 2. Number of times indicted: 0. Women affected by anorexia nationally: 7 million, models dead from anorexia this year: 2. Number of "Project Runway" contestants eliminated in 2006: 24. Number of rejected contestants with own clothing lines: 14. Pairs of ankle boots purchased: hundreds of thousands, save one last holdout.

Related Links: Hard to resist the crowds.

Clothing of the future has been coming out of the closet lately, with trackable clothing that lets you keep tabs on the wearer's whereabouts and shoes that vacuum while you walk. But all the technology in the world can't detect a scorpion in your jeans.

An end of the yea