My Ruffle Paradox

Ruffles... I love them! I'm not sure why, since I've never been a real girlie-girl. In fact, for most my life I was pretty much a tomboy, with a dash of fashion flair. But for some reason, ruffles just make me happy. I think they offset my classic style with a bit of whimsy and quirkiness. And, if done right, they offer an unexpected punch of soft sophistication -- a bit of a paradox, I suppose.

This season's ruffle trends afford me the ability to be girlie in my own irreverent way. Here are a couple of designer inspiration pieces and their bargain counter-parts. Be warned, though, too many ruffles are just plain silly. So keep it simple -- one ruffle piece at a time!

Designer Looks

Poplin Ruffle Tank Dress, Zac Posen, $1150


Rose Vertigo Satchel, Valentino, $2395

Bargain Looks

Ruffle-front Sheath, Chadwicks, $39.99; Alyssa Shirt Dress, Delias, $44.50

Ruffle Front Tote, Arden B, $58; Ruffle Round Toe Flat, gojane.com, $12

Everyone Wants to Wear Them

Pants. Trousers. Slacks. Chinos. Wherever your from, and however you say it, pants are the great equalizer. Over the last century, they've been instrumental in getting women out of their uncomfortable, fru-fru-y yards of fabric into the free-wheeling comfortable design of movable and durable fabric. And, oh boy, have we come along way!

Gone are the days of the ill-fitting, paper-bag cinched, scratchy fabric pants. Now pants have style. Have panache. Have sophistication. Designers have melded functionality with wit; comfort with sass; and, masculinity with femininity.

Here are just a few examples of how the Fall season looks are taking this transformation full-circle with retro-inspired looks with a touch of modernity.

Emeraldine Trousers, $228; Herringbone Trousers, $98, both Anthropologie


High-waist Trouser, Victoria's Secret, $88. Croco Tweed Cuffed Pant, Bebe, $139


High Waist Sailor Trouser, Arden B, $98. High Waisted Trouser in Sand Plaid, Raven (shoptwigs.com), $78