I shop for a living. I run a website called Store Adore, an online guide to the best boutique shopping around the country and online. I get paid (at least in theory) to browse, analyze and think about stores and what is inside of them. I look at cute stuff online even when it isn't my lunch hour.
But lately, I haven't been shopping like I used to. My mom told me she'd buy me a present if I picked it out online (love her!) and I still haven't done it. Am I losing my retail mojo? No, it's just that it's hard (even for me) to justify new shoes when the economy is crumbling around me (and as my husband points out, my old ones still fit just fine). And that is worrisome. Because if gals like me are afraid to spend, then there is reason to be concerned. (To paraphrase Chuck Schumer's quote in the New York Times, the financial collapse is affecting not just Wall Street, but Main Street too—and all of the closets along it.)
So I haven't stocked up for fall yet—despite the dozens of discounts and deals that Store Adore offers its shoppers. But that doesn't mean that I don't experience what (I guarantee!) millions of other women also experience when they wake up in the morning and contemplate getting dressed. Despite an overwhelming amount of stuff, I have nothing to wear. I can't stand the site of another sun dress. And honestly, last year's stuff just looks so last year. So I've been bypassing all the cute stuff by day and then waking up in the morning only to regret it.
So maybe it's time to shop just a little...Any anyway, shouldn't I fulfill my patriotic duty and help propel the economy forward?
The good news is that it's late enough in the fall season that I've had plenty of time to figure out which trends are worth embracing. (Jumpsuits, despite their prevalence even on the spring runways, are not it.) Further, although the high-minded fashion types might wish otherwise, the truth is that this season's trends are not remarkably different from last season's. A lot of what we got a glimpse of a year ago (plaid, leather, booties) is in full force right now. The key, in my opinion, is to stock up on just a few key pieces that will make you feel fresh, yet can easily be paired with what's already in your closet. I've talked myself into it. Here's are the five things I'm gonna get:
1. Booties
The simplest way to embrace fall 2008 is to buy a pair of booties. I promise you won't look like an elf. You can wear them with leggings (since they haven't gone away after two years, most of us are finally on the bandwagon) or with a skirt—they are much less trampy than high heeled boots with a mini. Until you warm up to the looks, just wear them under pants. Your legs will be cooler and you'll look a lot less bulky.
This pair by Charlotte Ronson has a bit of a boho feel. Get it for $115 at Goldyn with a 25% discount. (It's already been reduced to $154 from $220.)
I also like these from Seychelles at Sassanova ($128).
2. A Long Open Cardigan Sweater
My personal style uniform consists of some variation of jeans, a thin camisole or tank top, and an open sweater—versatile, interesting, and at once both pulled together and a little bit undone. A long sweater like this one by Parker Blue at Heist in L.A. ($495, $371 with your 25% Store Adore discount) is so of-the-moment with a belt around the outside. The length is perfect for over a dress or skirt too. (PS. It makes you look long and lean.)
This sweater by Dex Grey at Blonde LA ($110) achieves the same purpose with a bit more of a downtown feel.
3. A Leather Jacket
I'm putting it in writing: Even if Kate Moss is wearing them , I've sworn off leather pants. But I can still wear a leather jacket. And tough times mean the time is right for tough looks. (Again, see today's New York Times.)
The leather moment will go. But when it comes back again (and it will) this Theory bomber will still look right ($875, $825 with a $50 Store Adore coupon).
This blazer style by Madison Marcus ($798) is a more polished option, and I like how it transitions from outdoors in. 
4. A Bib Necklace
You can't wear the same top every day (though I've been tempted) but you can definitely repeat your jewelry. Oversize necklace are huge (pun intended) for fall and will continue their reign. The most innovative styles are made from large geometric stones knitted together into mosaic-like forms. Wear this with anything basic—jeans and a tucked in white tee or an L.B.D.
This one from All The Rage looks so expensive, but it's only $27. (Plus get an extra 20% off a purchase over $50.) It's in my cart!
Here's another more elegant option one from Ben Amun ($195).
5. A Cross Body Bag
An updated messenger bag is decidedly chic—and super functional too. I like it slung over my shoulder or crossed over my body for an "I just threw this on" look.
This one by Tano at Shebang is 100% work appropriate. With the poppy blueberry shade, it's all the accessorizing I need ($192, $153 with a 20% discount.).
I'm a little bit over oversized bags. Honestly, I can fit everything I need inside of this double flap bag by Olivia Harris ($475).
Hey, times are tough. We've all got to do our part. Plus, I'm only doing my job.