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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You’re going to blow it again, aren’t you?

It’s 72 hours until Valentine’s Day, and you’re going to blow it. You’re going to frantically call florists (to no avail), try for restaurant reservations (good luck with that) and end up with a cookie that has a frosting heart on it, hoping she’ll buy that old “thought that counts” thing.

(Ladies, if the above clearly applies to your significant other, by all means forward this item to him. Now.) 

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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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Basically, there are two ways to show up at a New Year’s Eve party: One is wearing the safe look (as in black dress, black tights, black pumps).

The second is to be amazing. Needless to say, we prefer you go for the latter. The only way to pull that off is with a pair of strut-your-stuff, fantastic shoes they’ll buzz about long after you stroll out the door.

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Attention, class of 2009. New Year’s Eve is just around the corner, and we want you to look skinnier than that celery stick we traded for peppermint biscotti today. Unless you’ve got kids to tend to or you’re just flat out anti-social, you’ve got a big night ahead. It’s your duty to look absolutely smokin’.

Welcome, then, to The Style Insider’s ”New Year’s Eve 101″ series. In these 5 short sessions you will become informed and excited about your 2009 party debut. Our first class is about looking sleek. (Sleek looks are sophisticated and flattering, and jersey knits are in the spotlight this year.)

1. Maggy London draped matte jersey dress, $158 

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