There are some trends better off left in the ’70s. We can think of several, but we’re not going to name them here for fear that someone will resurrect them and start mass-producing them again. Honestly, we can learn from history.

But we’ll participate gladly in the renewed zest for the peasant top, those gathered, often billowy blouses that flatter nearly anyone and cover a host of little sins. Worn over khakis or trousers, they take you to work (we like this Alberto Makali tunic at Nordstrom ($165, above), with

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It is a creative writing exercise of the highest order: Naming the rabid riot of intense pink that is all over the spring collections right now. Some designers call it hibiscus. Fuschia is popular. Hot pink, magenta and blush all make appearances. Geranium, even.

Whatever you call it, it’s one of the It colors of the season. And because we’re in a mood to browse  handbags, we’re sampling the shade across the price spectrum — from $23 to $2,300. Enjoy.

The best place to start? In the aisles at Target, of course, where their soft-sided Xhilaration ruffle top tote carries all the exuberant spirit of the season while leaving some green in your wallet. ($23, at top)  Patent leather is tres chic right now, and this Guess shine candy tote gives you the sparkle at a PVC price. With double handles, metal feet and four inside pockets, you’d be happy even without the free shipping (but it’s yours anyway). At Ebags ($88, above)

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The Style Insider occasionally wanders into a charmed window of opportunity, a moment when our desires and the real world actually align in some sort of affordable universe.

This is one of those times. Not quite spring, and (praise be!) no longer winter. The mornings are chilly, the afternoons are warm, and we are yearning for a couple of cute jackets to smooth the transition, to brighten our trousers and update our skirts. And — this is rare, so take note — they’re all on sale.

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We’re celebrating National Wear Red Day today (Feb. 6), surfing around for the prettiest dresses and accessories we can find, all helping mark awareness of women’s heart health. You’ll see women in the workplace in red, women in the stores in red, and women on television in red (we’re hoping for a clean sweep on The View!), so don’t hesitate to pull it out of your closet as well. And we probably don’t have to remind you, Valentine’s Day is just around the corner. Take a peek: 

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After more than five years as the high-fashion-meets-low-cost design guru at Target, the one-man style machine that is Isaac Mizrahi has moved on. His new assignment is to reinvigorate the style of the staid Liz Claiborne line. The fashion world is getting its first glimpse of his casual, more youthful and interesting collection for Claiborne.

You can learn more about it on FabSugar, and Wowowow has a witty piece by style sage Billy Norwich. The pictures of the collection (two above) are all over the fashion blogosphere.  (more…)

The Style Insider is into nesting now. We have taken down the tree and put away the way-too-many boxes of decorations, and we’re ready to do something fresh and new. January is the traditional month for white sales, so we’re presently enchanted with comforters and duvets and about 100 pillows, maybe even some Euro shams tucked in the back. And if you’re feeling frugal, come along anyway — we’ve found some very pretty ensembles that have the looks of their big-city cousins.

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True story: We once knew a mother who made her children get dressed, have their hair brushed and even eat breakfast before they could see what Santa brought on Christmas morning. We like this family otherwise, but this made an impression that we have not been able to shake.

Thus, here is our detailed Christmas morning routine: We get coffee, and we put on slippers. Amen.

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