The daily digest of Twin Cities culture | Secrets of the City

1. d'Uh. I'm not even there.

2. By now, I've had my fill of black, gray, and wool--even though I am somewhat pleased by the, uh, "bold prints" that will purportedly appear on racks everywhere next fall. My original point being: right now I'm looking forward to spring, not fall.

(2.5 A parenthetic thought: In theory, graphic prints are fine. But have you noticed how revolting they are in the real world--on curvy, non-coat hanger bods?)

3. While we're on the topic of fall '08 top trends, let's talk shoulder pads. Don't get me wrong: linebackers are sexy 'n all (or so I hear). However, I, myself, do not care to emulate the look since, as I recall, shoulder pads make me feel fat.

(3.5. I'm too busy scrutinizing Hillary's wardrobe.)

4. Frankly, there's a strong current of maternity-esque fashions (much of which look eerily similar to that shapeless sheath Angelina Jolie recently wore; see the Halston runway shots for examples). I must admit: for whatever reason (biological clock?), I’m drawn to such free-flowing, waist-less frocks. But I--and other women like me--have taken some heat for dressing this way. Guys don’t much like it, you see. So, I was hoping to avoid the look from hereon out. However, I do wonder if this means my beloved babydoll will resurrect. Thank God for pregnant superstars!

5. Have you heard about the recession? I don't mean to be a downer; however, I do feel recession and fashion are strongly correlated. Personally, my consumer confidence is in nosedive. I'm terrified of finding more fleeting fashions at which to toss my dough. For example, I covet those adorable scrunchy boots (see Jill Stuart's collection), but how long can that last?