Autumn in Washington

As fall descends upon our capital, this is a perfect time to reevaluate your wardrobe. By the end of this first weekend in October, you will have to pull out the sweaters anyway, so take it one step forward and check what your fall gear is saying. This can be an exciting time of year for clothes, but also difficult as the morning and evenings are cool, requiring some extra layering, while the afternoons remain comfortable. Here are a couple of my favorite ideas for dressing for this precarious in-between time: Pashminas - whether it's a traditional wool, silk, cashmere blend or going slightly warmer for marino wool, pashminas and wraps are a great way to layer, without feeling too bulky and are truly one of the few "one size fits all" pieces every woman should have in her possession. Plus, all the great colors - my faves include: black, chocolate, and fushia - mix them with prints or contrasting colors for a eye-catching pop. Boots, boots, boots - By far, my favorite Fall/Winter trend - covers just the right amount of leg and no stockings necessary! Pair them with gauchos or of course a great skirt, knee boots are a staple. And this season, just as last fall, promises excellent heel heights, inlcuding one of the best comebacks - the riding boot. Try Zara by Metro Center for a good pair. Word is that they're boots are great if you have larger calves. Argyle - My favorite cross-over print from male to female, argyle always makes a statement - and can often be found in cashmere - mmm! Fitted Jackets- They've been missing all summer and now it's time to bring those blazers out. From Bollero to flared collar and everything in between - nothing says "put together" more than a fitted jacket. Colors - Pumpkin, Cranberry, Olive - not just items on your grocery list, but some of the best colors you have to wait all year to wear. Those summer khakis can be worn with a great pumpkin V-neck and pair of chocolate stacked heels.