DKNY Runway - Fashion Week, Fall '09

Karan and company built Fall on wearable looks pulled together from top to toe—or, more specifically, from funny little felt hat to lace-up spectator bootie, with sleek gloves and a rainbow of oversize envelope clutches and cavernous carryalls in between. Modern, grown-up polish was the name of the game. Pencil skirts ended mid-calf; waists were neatly belted; and trim, boxy coats had bracelet sleeves. Clashing patterns—houndstooths, stripes, a blown-up plaid—kept things from looking too mature or too vintage (though I did find myself idly wondering when the next season of Mad Men is going to begin). Ultimately, this was a true autumn collection, with loads of merch from outerwear to scarves to knits to pants, not all of it skewed to a more soigné lady. Moms and daughters shopping together should take a look: They might finally agree on something.