Fall Fashion direct from the streets of Italy

Nothing could cause a fashionista more hyper-ventilating than window shopping and people watching the streets of Verona, Florence and Rome, Italy last week. The chunky Italian knits were luscious in hues of warm, taupey-grey, black and hints of plum. Layers and draping of scarves and sweaters filled the windows. In Verona, it was cool enough for many women to sport a chunky wrap over a suit jacket with trousers.

Everyone was "dressed," going somewhere. Most surprising were the ladies in leather. Not the images of rock star leather on clubbing Millennials, but sophisticated, tasteful, supple, rich mostly black leather jackets, trousers, and A-line skirts often on ladies even older than me.

Then of course there were the boots. Boots, boots, boots. Knee high, many over-the- knee (on women of all ages!) mid-calf, and some ankle. All FLAT heels for the walking class - in each city, Verona, Florence & Rome, the streets are varied cobblestone so flat heels are a must. A lot of brown hues worn with denim or black, some gray, and of course black boots. In an ignorant a-ha moment, of course the Italian shoe manufacturers have beautiful high quality goods in all price ranges. The difference from the US - we have inexpensive leather options that look and feel inexpensive and high end (shipped in from Italy.) Yes, we looked in every store window, and no I didn't buy any -but there was one pair I woulda, coulda, shoulda.

Last but not least, the accessory of the moment: all things leopard whether it is a bag, a scarf, a shoe, a vest, a coat. Not as tacky as you might think. Fun.