Fall is such an exciting time of year. Stores are filling up fast with new merchandise, and designers begin to showcase their newest collections on the runways. As fashion lovers, we all want new things at the beginning of the season because style is fresh and exciting, and luckily for San Franciscans, we are able to wear fall clothing almost year round because of the perpetually cool weather. As American writer Mark Twain said, “the coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco!”

As a stylist, I love discovering fashion ideas before they happen, and I always aim to be a little bit different. Here, a few of my favorite looks for fall:

Fur (or faux fur)
I found the fake fur I am wearing in the photo above almost a year ago. I wear it all the time in San Francisco, even with sandals in the summertime. Though it’s freezing, you still want to feel some essence of summer here. Over-the-top is truly inspirational.

Capes
You can’t have enough outerwear here in San Francisco. The good news about a cape is that all you need in order to pull it off is a pair of skinny jeans. I’m loving knee socks paired with them as well, but it’s not for everyone.

Equestrian
The equestrian trend is back and riding rainboots are the perfect touch for the endless rain in San Francisco. Pull them over your skinny jeans, jodhpurs, or tights – instant rainy-day chic.

You heard it here first: Style is alive and well in Boston’s clubby, white-shoe financial world, and we’ve met a man who proves it. In a city that some would say “plays it safe” when it comes to fashion, it was refreshing to find someone who isn’t afraid to push the envelope. Here, our favorite financial planner dishes on his style dos and don’ts.

Rue La La: You work in a very conservative town in an uber conservative profession - how do you incorporate some risks into your style?
Andrew: I wear pocket squares that match my ties, I incorporate a ton of pink, and I also wear argyle or colored socks that work with my tie’s color scheme.

Rue La La: What are some of your workday style “rules” - we know you financial types have them!
Andrew: Belt must always match shoes (a no-brainer in my book), suit and tie Tuesday through Thursday, I never wear a blazer with slacks and a tie (always a suit), and my shoes must always be shined. And never, ever square-toe shoes, black suits, button-down collars with a tie. And no jewelry.

Rue La La: What about non-business days? Do you have a weekend uniform?
Andrew: Usually golf attire as I play every weekend (shorts and a polo), sweats when relaxing, jeans, blazer, and shirt at night and loafers with no socks.

Rue La La: Tell us about your signature style elements.
Andrew: Pocket squares, the color pink, and “different” socks. Sean John or Dolce&Gabbana Light Blue for fragrance. And I have three pairs of monogrammed cufflinks, all from Brooks Brothers. One is plain silver with old English script initials, another plain silver with block initials, and lastly and most importantly there is a silver and blue handpainted enamel pair with white block initials - I’d definitely grab those first in a fire.

Rue La La: Do you shop vintage?
Andrew: Yes, I have two vintage blazers from the Garment District - solid tan and tweed. I also have two V-neck Lacoste sweaters (one yellow and one red), and one navy cardigan. Actually reminds me, I should go search for more!

Rue La La: Who are your style icons?
Andrew: Rick Fox, Sean “Puffy” Combs, André 3000, Terrence Howard, and Kanye West.

Rue La La: What’s your dream vacation, and what would you pack for it?
Andrew: St Tropez - because I rarely relax and it seems like such a relaxing place. I would do nothing but hang out and relax! All white. White linen pants, shirts, and bathing suit along with a pair of flip-flops and sunglasses.

Rue La La: What’s something style-related you’ve been coveting for a long time?
Andrew: A tan seersucker suit. A summer essential!

Rue La La: Now it’s time to dish. Embarrassing fashion moment?
Andrew: I wore a shirt a couple months back that I’d had handmade when I first got out of college. I hadn’t noticed the back collar was frayed. A stylish woman in my office pointed it out to me one day, and I threw it away on the spot.

Rue La La: What inspires you to dress up every day?
Andrew: My dad always had his clothes custom made and he always would say, “You never know who you’re going to meet.” Every morning, I approach the day that way - because you never know who you’ll run into.

Office-appropriate attire is no longer limited to navy dresses and pinstripe suits, but it’s sometimes a fine line as to what flies in the workplace. Our Members shared vexing career clothing questions, and we’re turning to Deanna Grubbs, Director of Retail Merchandising at Johnston & Murphy, for answers on how to take on the work week in style.

Q. No one likes to iron! Is it possible to avoid ironing work clothes?
- Julie via twitter @Jkchavanne

A. Start by selecting fabrics that naturally have wrinkle-resistant properties - such as jersey, wool, and polyester - quite common in dresses and pants. If you prefer the look and feel of cotton, many brands offer styles that have been specially treated to be wrinkle-resistant. In our men’s apparel line, we have a selection of Easy Care shirts that can literally be taken right out of the dryer and worn wrinkle-free. Poly/cotton blends are more common in women’s shirts, and the blend naturally offers wrinkle resistance. And if you insist on 100% cotton, try hanging your clothes in the bathroom while showering to “steam” out the wrinkles. It’s not as good as a press job, but it’s better than nothing.

Q. Do you have to wear nylons to work?
- Michal via twitter @inkasrain

A. Bare legs are now acceptable in most every work environment. It’s more about the appropriate amount of leg to show versus whether it is covered or not. Keep dresses and skirts no more than a few inches above the knee. Tights and leggings (especially worn with boots) are good, stylish alternatives. If you’re in one of the few hold-out industries like law, accounting, or finance where it’s still in question, and especially if you work at a conservative firm, check into your corporate dress code policy.

Q. Can jeans work at the office? How, and what do you pair them with?
- Meredith via twitter @mgendreau

A. This is also dependent on your specific dress code policy. Outside of a written policy, it has definitely become more acceptable to wear jeans at the office. The key is to keep the look polished. It looks sharp when the denim is a dark, uniform wash and has a tailored or trouser-like fit. Pair it with a blazer (for both men and women) or some type of jacket or cardigan. Layers add interest, as do accessories like fun jewelry or scarves. Heels work great to round out the look and still be professional.

Q. How do you deal with the fact that it’s warm outside, yet icy cold in your average office?
- Lainey via twitter @seriouslyrad

A. Layering is key. Pair cardigans, blazers, or even a denim jacket with short sleeve or sleeveless tops. An oversized scarf or wrap is also a great option, like our pleated scarf from the spring collection. These are great to keep in your office in neutral colors like black and ivory.

Q. Any suggestions for when you wake up and nothing seems to fit?
- Abby via twitter @Supershopgal

A. These are the days when I go for a relaxed dress, preferably empire waist or A-line. Another good option is a long shirt or dress paired with leggings. Fabrics like jersey are good because they are generally more full and flowing. Avoid anything too fitted. And try to wear black - we all know its slimming effect. Another good option: Layer with a longer cardigan or jacket. Great shoes or jewelry also draw attention away from your figure or clothing and toward other parts of your body.

Q. How can you avoid looking like you’re wearing the same thing over and over?
- Katherine via twitter @WhiteySox

A. Accessories and layering are keys to making the same wardrobe items look different. Don’t be afraid to mix patterns, colors, and materials. You often look more stylish and fresh when things don’t really match. Belts are great over cardigans or to change the looked of a belted pant. Styles like our Skinny Snake Print or Tortoise Patent Belt or Wide Woven Belt offer fun texture and color while looking very professional. Try different shoes, maybe a metallic, snake, or tortoise patent for a different look. It’s also nice to try a natural leather or cognac style with black or navy to freshen it up. Jewelry or scarves are inexpensive ways to completely change the look of an outfit.

Q. What shoes are cute but functional?
- Cera via twitter @cerasmith & Bonnie via Facebook

A. Flats are perfect, and they are very trendy right now, which means there are plenty of great options in the market. Big trends are novelty materials like metallics, exotic prints like snake or croc, and animal prints. Studs, jewels, and cutouts also dress up a flat. Another great option is a style with a wedge heel or a chunky mid-heel. Both provide comfort and stability with a little lift, which is functional and flattering. Finally, if you are a die-hard heel-wearer, platforms are the way to go. These are very hot right now, so there are lots of great options from pumps to peep-toes to strappy sandals. They look higher than they actually are, making them more appropriate for all-day wear. Try to find styles with added cushioning in the ball area of the foot and rubber on the fore-part of the outsole. All of our Johnston & Murphy women’s shoes have these features.

Q. How short is too short (for skirts)? How high is too high (for heels)?
- Catherine via Facebook

A. For an office environment, keep skirts no more than a few inches above the knee (this also happens to be the most flattering length for most body types). You have a little more leeway with heel heights. Four inches is probably the maximum that most people can wear and walk in comfortably all day. Most importantly, stick with whatever heel height you feel the most comfortable in.

Q. I can never find good dress pants for work….suggestions?
- Rory via Facebook

A. Lightweight, tropical wools are a great material choice for both men and women. For men, stores like Brooks Brothers, Jos. A. Banks, and Banana Republic all have nice options. Department stores also have a good selection of styles from their private label brands. For women, also look for lightweight wools or polyester/synthetic options from stores like Banana Republic, Ann Taylor (triacetate fabric), J.Crew, and even Express (the Editor pant offers a professional look). If you want to make an investment, Theory pants are some of the best in the market.

Q. It’s been so hot lately that I hate having to wear a jacket to meetings. If you have a client/prospecting meeting, is it appropriate to not wear a jacket to the meeting? For example, if I wore a sleeveless dress or slacks paired with a dressy blouse with capped sleeves and left out the jacket, would that be “business” enough?
- Jennifer via Facebook

A. As long as the rest of your outfit is professional, you shouldn’t have to wear a jacket. A dressy blouse with capped sleeves or a shirt dress or wrap dress are perfect. You can also try a lightweight cardigan over a tank paired with pants or a skirt for a lighter look.

Q. I’m relocating from Portland, OR to Tampa, FL and will be taking on a fairly high-profile management position. My wardrobe has been completely “Portlanized” over the past few years. Think, black, grey, and navy with lots of pants and “sensible” shoes. What are some easy ways to inject some Florida color into my wardrobe while still remaining professional?
- Meghann via Facebook

A. You have two things going for you: You have a great starting point with a base of neutrals, and you’re going to another relatively casual market. Try a new selection of tops to go with your basic pants. Look for fun patterns and colors with feminine detailing like ruffles or dressy fabrics like silk. These will instantly update your look. As we move into fall, use cardigans or light jackets to wear with these same blouses and pants. Bright colors like rich greens, olives, dark berries, burgundies, purples, rusty oranges and yellows are forecasted to be strong in fall. All of these work well with your neutral base. Add a few peep-toe pumps to your wardrobe for a professional option that is appropriate for the Florida climate.

Q. Can you advise people on alternate yet appropriate interviewing attire? As a recruiter I feel awful having people wear full-on suits to interview on 98 degree days (especially men who tend to sweat more).
- Melenee via Facebook

A. The key words to keep in mind are “tailored” and “polished.” Professional doesn’t mean a suit these days. It means a well put-together outfit. For men, it can be a nice-looking shirt and dress slacks or a suit with an updated shirt sans tie. But guys need to pay attention to the details too – polished shoes, matching belt, and socks. Details make a difference. For women, use cardigans or novelty jackets to create a light, more interesting professional look. Dresses or skirts are other good options in the summer heat.

Our Johnston & Murphy Boutique opens Thursday, July 22 at 11AM ET.

Word of a major stylista in buttoned-up D.C. perked our ears right up. We had to see this uber chic (and totally successful) PR pro running around the city for ourselves. With a whole lot of sophistication and a splash of French influence, Leslie Kerns is living proof that fashion and professionalism can mix – no matter what your politics.

Rue La La: First of all, talk to us about your high-influence job.
Leslie: I run the communications division of a public affairs firm headquartered in D.C. We help progressive non-profits, campaigns, and other mission-focused organizations meet their advocacy, organizing, fundraising, and public relations needs. My firm is fairly entrepreneurial – which means “all hands on deck” is not just a phrase but a way of life. Running from client meeting to staff meeting to a new business pitch – sometimes on the other side of D.C., and sometimes by phone as I head to New York or elsewhere - means I have to move quickly and adapt to many different environments.

Rue La La: Politicos are famous for dressing to convey a message. What kind of vibe do you want your work clothes to exude?
Leslie: Creative yet in control.

Rue La La: We have to say, you’re incredibly busy, but still manage to look perfectly polished. Tell us your secret!
Leslie: Develop a style uniform. Know the cuts, pieces, and colors that work best for you and find the embellishments that reflect your personality. I tend to go for structured, fitted skirts with simple but feminine T-shirts or camis and blazers – generally in blue, black, gray, and white - with sexy high heels and big, droopy earrings. That’s my definition of creative yet in control.

Rue La La: We imagine that you have to do a lot of networking. How do you go from the workday, to say, a cocktail event or non-profit gala?
Leslie: Wearing a classic dress - like a DVF wrap dress with heels, which you can swap out for strappy sandals matched with a slightly darker eye depending on the event.

Rue La La: What’s something you’d never wear to work?
Leslie: Leggings. Maybe I’ve tried jean leggings with boots in the winter - but leggings with a dress or T-shirt (no matter how cute it is) leans too much toward “creative” and not enough toward “control.”

Rue La La: Some people say D.C. isn’t fashionable - oh the nerve!
Leslie: Oy vey – we just can’t shake that rep! True, D.C. has traditionally been known as a bit stale when it comes to style and fashion. Conservative too often wins over avant-garde. But, things are changing. D.C. is truly a cosmopolitan city, with its residents coming from all over the country and all over the world, and these different perspectives and points of view are starting to show in the cool and interesting neighborhoods as well as the cool and interesting styles these residents display on the streets and offices across the city. And of course, with Michelle Obama in the White House, D.C. style now has a great ambassador.

Rue La La: What’s challenging about dressing in D.C.?
Leslie: Knowing how far you can push your look, and how it will transcend the various environments your day might take you through. For example, a friend of mine - who runs the fundraising arm of a major association - recently thought it was an in-office day and so she threw on the jeggings, high boots, an edgy long cardigan and an arm-full of chunky bracelets, only to be called to a meeting with the chairman of the Democratic National Committee! She had no other choice but to rock it in front of Governor Tim Kaine.

Rue La La: Who are your style icons?
Leslie: Audrey Tautou, Diane von Furstenberg, and Cameron Diaz.

Rue La La: Cameron really knows how to do casual. What’s your go-to weekend look?
Leslie: Fitted jeans or jean leggings, feminine T-shirt or simple tank, blazer, and suede booties or flats. Oh, and big earrings – but I wear those to work as well.

Rue La La: One more thing on our minds. When you’re young but in a position of authority, should you try to look older?
Leslie: No! Look confident and speak with confidence and people will listen to you. That’s what matters most.

We love your style questions. From what’s appropriate, to what’s “in,” to what you’re just dying to pull off – your queries get us thinking, and searching for the best answers. This time we turned to Misty Huber, stylist and co-founder of StyleSalt.com and DIYbeautiful.com. Here’s her chic, practical say:

Q. I never know if it’s okay to tuck tops into pants anymore. A few years ago my teenage daughter told me absolutely no tucking in.
A. It’s definitely okay! Tucking in your tops is an easy way to define your waist and create an hourglass figure. The trick to pulling it off is to make sure you have a great-fitting pair of pants that lay flat across your stomach and flatter your derriere without bulging, pinching, or pulling. Choose a substantial fabric. Thin fabrics aren’t as forgiving and can show the excess fabric where you’ve tucked in your top.

Q. I am looking for the perfect work/play black leather purse. What brands do you recommend I look at?
A. Look for bags that are structured enough for the office, but with fun, going-out details. This season I love Marc by Marc Jacobs.

Q. I have to wear the famous little black dress for work events, and that’s often! Who has the hottest styles this season?
A. Little black dresses are one investment piece you know will carry you through several seasons, but it’s exciting too when designers get the inspiration to tweak an already gorgeous staple. Among my favorites this season: Milly and Haute Hippie.

Q. Help! I am a 41 year old single mom of two teenage boys (can’t believe I said it out loud). I want to be stylish and sexy without dressing too young for the office and when I go out. What are some basics? I am a slender 4-6.
A. If you’re slender, you want to bring out your curves and emphasize your waist with skirts, tucked-in blouses, and dresses. Dark denim is a fantastic choice because it’s on-trend and flatters every figure (and is very age appropriate). You can still do bold colors as long as they’re not of the fluorescent family, along with sophisticated neutrals and feminine prints.

Q. I need a new black blazer. I like the length of boyfriend jackets because I can wear skinny jeans or leggings while covering my derriere. Is that too fall/winter-ish?
A. Where basic blazers are concerned, there are many options that look like a million bucks and usually cost less than $100. Skinny jeans and leggings are both still options for spring, but you should also consider wearing blazers with cropped pants, skirts, and even shorts as spring starts and temperatures start to rise.

Q. I saw the Galliano preview and am mesmerized by his ability to mix patterns that you’d never think would go together. I would love to do that but are there any rules so I don’t end up looking like a hot mess??
A. The idea is to not come too close to matching color tones – you don’t want it to look as if you were trying to make them work together, but were off base – or colorblind. If you’re shopping online, open two windows and look at the patterns next to each other. Go with your first reaction as to whether they clash, or if they bring out the best in each other. The combinations you are drawn to may surprise you: mod prints mixed with florals, or a batik print paired with stripes.