Because what goes up (and up and up) will inevitably come down, skirt lengths on many runways were longer. For spring, both Marc Jacobs and Dolce and Gabbana started the southward hemline migration.  Marc Jacob's fall runway lineup featured  several A-line skirts at just-below-the-knee and also in a longer, stricter mid-calf length. The economy-driven message was loud and clear. Less trying too hard. Less bling and more just plain wearable clothing. Those longer and fuller skirts that you've had packed away deserve some daylight. STYLE TIP: a length at or just-below-the-knee flatters most. Unless you are a model, a mid-calf length is tough to wear without looking frumpy. Left to Right: Marc Jacobs, United Bamboo, Marc Jacobs.

Wooly and textured or ribbed merino dress socks worn with lady shoes is a look that continues. Prada's fall show made a sensational sock and shoe statement. I like the look of a feminine pump worn with ribbed men's knee high dress socks (long enough to go over the knee). They are easy to pick up anywhere. STYLE TIP: Pair with a longer hemline to avoid looking like a wayward (and crazy) school girl or Hannah Storm of ESPN for you sports enthusiasts.

Knitwear is everywhere for fall but have a look at these ideas and tell me you don't have  similar sweaters  stacked somewhere. For that cabled jewel neck or button front cardy that you haven't known what to do with: belt it ala Prada. A classic cardigan looks like a cropped knit jacket when closed with a brooch or kilt pin. Or try on some layering with a vest over a shirt and reign in the bulk of an oversized, textured cardigan with a belt.

REMEMBER THE PANTSUIT? No offense to our Secretary of State Hillary Clinton but her wardrobe of pantsuits is what most women currently associate with the style. But think back to the sartorial glory days of the late seventies and the slouchy and elegant lines of Halston's and Calvin's suits, for example. The look is back. Have a pantsuit to resuscitate? Single or double breasted it doesn't matter - belt the waist. Add a current-looking, tough shoe to avoid any intimations of Madame Secretary.

And Finally... SALES RACK ALERT. Keep a look out for ponchos and capes. A few days ago, as I rummaged through a last gasp please get it out of here  sales rack I found a fanatastic Elizabeth and James cape for an absolute song. Actually, cheaper than that. More like a 30-second jingle. Put these looks on your radar.