OK.  It’s that time of year again.  Fall.  I am always excited to pick up my JCPenney fall catalog.  Now, I know Penneys isn’t the trendiest place to shop, or the most fashion forward store around.  However, for basic wardrobe staples like these sweater sets, they absolutely canNOT be beat.  I have purchased several of these sets over the years and they are by far the cheapest, most durable sweater sets I’ve ever owned (I’ve had quite a few cashmere sets that have come and gone in the meantime!).  What I love…they are available in 10 colors (I have the red and plum sets already), and they are available in Petite sizes.  Best of all…machine washable.  A great buy for a great wardrobe staple!

Photo courtesy of jcp.com

I found these great shoes for kids by Lands End.  My son hates to tie his shoes, so this style is perfect.  Available in 5 adorable colors for fall, including my son’s favorite….green (or should I say, Vintage Olive).  Sizes 5-8 toddler, 9-13, 1-7 Youth.  Only $24.50.  I found a similar pair at Dillard’s for $49!

Photo Courtesy of Landsend.com/kids

I found this free standing pet gate through Hammacher Schlemmer.  It’s the only sophisticated pet gate I’ve ever seen…..not an eyesore like every other pet gate I’ve used.  And, since it’s free standing, it won’t damage your walls (or your nerves!).  Small gate is $149.95, large size is $199.95.  A bit pricey, but hey, consider it a piece of furniture!

Photo Courtesy of Hammacher.com

Look what I found!  Beautiful leather slingbacks, sizes 5-11, for only $39.99.  These are from Chadwick’s.  I know, I know…..Chadwick’s isn’t exactly the classiest place to buy clothes.  But honestly, I’ve purchased “staple” fashions from them in the past (shirts, t-shirts, etc) and the quality is fine.  And they feature shoes in small sizes (department stores start at size 6–what’s up with that???!), so they’re fine in my book.  These shoes are leather, very pretty, great basic colors.  I’m buying the black ones!

photo courtesy of chadwicks.com

Everybody knows that a crisp shirt (preferably in white) is timeless and sophisticated.  I’ve found one for you with an unbeatable price ($19.99 or $16.99 if you purchase 2 or more!).  At that price you can replace it with a new one every season.  What’s the point in paying more for a designer label that you’re going to feel married to?  This one is by J.G. Hook from Chadwick’s.  I’ve purchased plain white shirts from Chadwick’s in the past and I can assure you that the low price doesn’t mean low quality.  Check it out.

Photo courtesy of chadwicks.com

This dress is so feminine and simple, but really very pretty.  It reminds me of a dress my husband bought me several years ago that I have worn to death.  Nice cut and length that will never go out of style.  I think this is a great buy for silk!  At Talbots, of course.

Photo courtesy of Talbots.com

I love these shoes!  I had a pair like this a few years ago and I wore them out.  Great with jeans or dress pants.  These are by Talbots….one of the few stores that offers shoes in my size (size 5)!  $110.  (My advice:  catch them on sale the day after Christmas.  That’s what I plan to do!)

Photo courtesy of Talbots.com

These days, I like simple.  This suit from Talbots is a classic cut, no-nonsense style that I like.  Dress it up with a silk blouse or cashmere sweater, or dress it down with a white tee shirt.  Very pretty.  Very smart-looking.  And, what I especially love about Talbots….it’s available in petite sizes.  The only downside is, like most things at Talbots, it’s a bit pricey ($188 for the jacket and $118 for the pants).

Photo courtesy of Talbots.com

Here we go!!!!  The search for sweaters for fall has begun!  I love cashmere (who doesn’t?)!  This one is absolutely beautiful!  A bit pricey, but it’s a cardigan so there’s more length and it’s very classic…so I figure it’s worth it.  Available in 6 lovely colors, but I have to say… my favorite is black.  Great wish list item!  It’s on mine!

I love these shorts!  I’m a big fan of J. Jill clothes, and this is why:  The cut is flattering and slimming, and they are also available in petite sizes (would I have chosen this to post if they weren’t?!)  On sale now!  Check it out….

Photo courtesy of JJill.com