I planned on delivering to you a “fall primer” buying guide for sometime, but I’ve realized that this is not going to happen. In a last-ditch effort to find something that sparks my attention for a new wardrobe season, I’ve come to the conclusion that there’s just nothing new. This pains me deeply, as fall is my absolute favorite time to buy clothes.

Digging through all my favorite stores and websites, I clearly see how the fashion industry is trying to survive this recession: they’ve laid-off their designers. There were plenty of interesting pieces I saw coming down the runway earlier this year for fall 2009, but these do not seem to have translated to the fall collections offered up to us in the masses.

What I see are recycled designs from the past few seasons. Sure there maybe a slight color change here or a little ruffle added there, but by far these are the exact same fashions we’ve seen over the last few years. There is nothing original or interesting and certainly nothing you’d want to splurge your hard earned money on.

This year, my advice is this: sit this one out. Don’t pay top price for recycled designs, when they’re probably already in your closet. Stock up on the basic staples that will get you through the next several seasons and use what you’ve already got. Shorten some of those skirts and dresses (above the knee length), add accessories to update with the colors of the season and round it out with some new shoes if they catch your eye.

Shop the outlets and other discount stores, sales and wait it out until next year. It’s not worth depleting your precious account balance for old designs. You’ll find me at the outlets. Let us cross our fingers that we’ll have some better choices next year.

From The Cut:

Finally, Nordstrom is coming to New York!…Maybe the recession will be the best thing to ever happen to Union Square shops.

We know that NY is a bit starved for style, so we’re glad to lend a helping hand. Its the least we can do in such difficult times.

NY, let us know if there’s anything else we can do for you. How about some Windows 7?

I think she chopped it and I like it. Haven’t been a big fan of how she’s been pulling it back lately. Apparently she wasn’t either. So what’s a girl to do in those legendary hot DC summers if you can’t put your hair up? Seems to me there’s only one alternative.

When you’re First Lady I’m sure they can find a way to make it longer again in the Fall.  Below is the pic, judge for yourself (via The Cut).

Pastels are everywhere: pinks, blues, yellows and greens, so here’s hoping the Easter Bunny will bring good cheer in the form of fabulous new shoes.

Here are a few picks to brighten up your Spring and not punch a hole through your Easter basket:

With the new season its time to integrate some new style norms. Add some interesting patterns, bright colors and lighter fabrics to your wardrobe for an updated look for the new season.

Ladies

Replace the standard jeans and trousers with some vibrant and feminine dresses, blouses and skirts.  Get away from the black, gray and brown.

Add colors, fit and patterns that put a punch of personality into a boring typical northwest wardrobe. Here are a few examples from our local retail giant: notice fresh spring colors, floral patterns and lighter fabrics.

Gentleman

Try adding bolder color and pattern to your shirts:

And some lighter color and pattern to your blazers:

Happy Shopping!