Trends to invest in

We all want to have cool new stuff as often as possible- that's a given. But in the current economic climate, we need to exercise some degree of restraint in our spending. We need to be selective, practical...and we need to get the most bang for our buck possible. That's why I like to look at the runway fashion with an eye towards what will work both this season and next.

So here's my round up of "transitional trends."

The severe black shoe trend- gotta have it! Mine is a big platform wedgie bootie with the instep cut out and a huge bow at the ankle. I got mine last Fall, but its definitely got that 80's Ungaro vibe that Marc Jacobs showed in Paris for LV Fall '09. Glad to see I'll be getting some mileage out of those! I'm on the hunt for a second pair now, a "tough girl" bootie with some studs on it or something. If you know of anything without a pointy toe or a stilleto heel, please email me!

Heavy hardware- metal studs and zips. Tano often uses both to embellish their bags- they give that certain moto chic/ rocker vibe that always looks hot. Both leather and denim benefit from the edgy, modern look that studs and zips lend.. and it's all good. Femme Fetale is my current favorite in this category... but I can't decide on a color!

Black legs- just look at Bill Cunningham's recent piece in the NYT and you'll see that all the fashionistas in Paris are wearing black leggings right now, both shiny and matte. Got a fabulous shiny pair from Patricia Peppe from my DH for my birthday, and got myself a really expensive looking matte pair at Zara for $29.90. Drooled over a leather pair from Vena Cava on a recent Gilt Group sale, but two pairs is enough, already...

As always, email me with your thoughts, comments and suggestions! I love to hear from you.