Every year you are slammed with pictures of runway clothing that’s supposed to be the “new trend”. The new trend usually includes things that wouldn’t work in a Mad Max movie, let alone in your cubicle. This season I saw a pair of blue stilettos with a leather mohawk growing out of the heel and they were exquisite, but, better on Cameron Diaz than under your bed. I can appreciate art for what it is, and you aren’t investing in these for a run to Target or to work—unless you work for Vanity Fair, or Rachel Zoe. The title “What’s Hot for Fall” is everywhere, and it gets old. Maybe because we don’t have any money, maybe we feel left out by the runway shows. But, maybe you’re starting to catch on that it’s basically the same few “key pieces” every season. First, you must have a plan. Decide what your style is. Easier said than done, agreed. This isn’t as hard as you think; you should know what you like. Also, you have to come to terms with your actual size, and its probably not what you would prefer it to be. I just recently surrendered to the “short” length in pants. I also have an awesome tailor. Also consider your life and what you do with it. Do you live at your office? Are you a last call regular? Be precise, buy for what you do most. Most of all, thin out your closet before you go nuts. Do not leave the house until you sift through the stuff you already have. This was some of the best advice I’ve ever received: don’t buy it unless you could wear it for a week straight. Realistically, I have digested the “Fall Fashion Trends” and prepared them for you, this is a realistic approach. It is a re-do of the runway trends in a more reasonable medium. Some “must haves” for the new season will include the basic that you probably already have or want really bad. First off, soft and straight hair is a major trend. Get a quality straightener, it’s worth every penny. We loved the Corlioliss straightener from Misikko. We could even pull off some soft waves with this straightener. It got super hot in a flash! You can even change the temperature so you don’t have to fry your ends. If you want to go full out curly, a new trend is the “clampless” curling iron by Amika. You get soft curls without the pressure that creates harsh lines. This singlehandedly helped me through a horrid hair cut. Leggings and skinny pants/jeans are hot—again…and still. One caveat: they’re not for everyone. Luckily, tunics are going to stay around for another go. Sweater dresses are a big deal this fall, so are little wool dresses. Pair with leggings and/or rotate tops under the wool dress and keep it fresh. Boots of all types, specifically the riding boots and ankle boots are popular, ideal with the skinnies and leggings. The “fold over” types are hot or go with classic riding boots.  Suede is popular in the fall. I suggest soft leather, preferably lambskin. If you go too shiny you’re going to like you’re in the German SS. Add elegance with a heel, also I am a garden gnome that needs the height. Cringe-inducing silk cargo pants are sneakily permeating store racks. These are a distinct look, very easy to mess up. They are a pinch of Audry Hepburn married to the utilitarian nature of cargo pants. You could end looking like you walked out of a Prince video—beware. A great wool pea coat is timeless, and the camel color is everywhere. Or, get a sweet leather jacket. Nothing gives you the edge of danger that you need like a killer leather jacket, just leave the trenches to cowboys and anime characters. A bright color will give you some flash, pick black and you’re the missing member of The Runaways gone polished career girl. Miss Oops is a secret product that needs to come out of our secret closets. Miss Oops is built to all of the little mishaps that will ruin your day and your look. Severe climate changes, can give the wrong impression. (Turkey’s done!) If you know your blouse is on the thin side, or you aren’t using a bra, Miss Oops saves the day with Show Stoppers. Stick on this little and no more nips. They have an entire line that is dedicated to keeping your naughty bits under control. You can have the new trends without being uncomfortable or worse, broke. Take your time, pay attention to fit. Also remember that confidence is important, it can transform your whole outfit. But, please, I beg, don’t confuse “comfortable” with wearing your pajama pants to the mall.