The onslaught of UGGs in the fashion world is showing no signs of letting up this winter season - with Christmas just days away, many UGG styles are sold out or on backorder. Some retailers have even imposed a 4 or 5 pair household limit for the sheepskin footwear due to the incredibly high demand.

As the proud owners of a pair of UGG Uptown boots, we understand the UGG appeal (fortunately, we received ours as a gift): They are incredibly warm, comfortable and comforting in cold climates. Slip them on, and you feel ready to take on any weather in style. What can we say, we don't think UGGS are ugly - they're cute, like so many odd-looking yet adorable creatures endemic to Australia - the platypus or wombat, for example.

However, if you took away the UGG's warmth and cozy lining, well, we don't think they could fall back on looks alone. Which is why we have to say "lump it" (as the Aussies say) to the imitations. If you want to try the look before investing in the real thing, by all means go for it. But if you're looking for a high-quality warm boot - and you like the look of UGGs - go for the real thing, as you won't be disappointed.


LEFT: Xhilaration Electra Suede Boots at Target, $19.99
RIGHT: UGG Australia Classic Short Boot at Nordstrom, $119.95

Black and gold join forces to create one of winter's top trends, especially for holiday attire. Give it a try with your accessories, or make a bold statement with a black and gold dress.


Left: Betsey Johnson employs the glamorous and sophisticated color combination of black and gold on the Fall 2007 runway.
Right: For just $39, you can achieve a similar look with this striking French Corset Bubble Dress from Forever 21.


>> Black & Gold - Top Holiday Accessory Trend <<

Feather Earrings, $5.80 | Elephant Necklace, $7.80 | Pumps, $18.80 | Tote, $30.80 | Mod Ring, $4.80

Fashionistas who adore bright, summery hues won't have to give them up this winter season. Designer boutiques and fast fashion retailers have filled their outerwear racks with chic coats in just about every color of the rainbow, from juicy reds, oranges, and yellows, to rich blues, purples and pinks. You don't need a pot of gold to get in on this trend - find your own amazing technicolor dreamcoat at budget-lovely shops like Target, H&M and Forever 21.

[1] Annabel coat, $44.80
[2] Murray 3Q swingcoat, $34.80
[3] Jacqueline peacoat, also in pink, $49.80
[4] Canary Coat, $49.80
[5] Brooklyn lady coat, also in mustard, $44.80
[6] Sateen jacket, $24.80
[7] LS Paris coat, $49.80
[8] Faux fur wool coat, $54.80
[9] Katie coat, $44.80

We checked out the Abaeté for Payless Holiday 07 Collection and it's actually not ugly. Not gorgeous, but not ugly. The description on Payless.com reads, "Laura Poretzky’s limited edition Abaeté for Payless Vintage Holiday 07 Collection honors the glitz and glam of ’50s American film."

We think that any of these items could pass for "pricey" under the dim lights of a posh bar or swanky nightclub. And if you get caught in a nor'easter on your way home, you won't cry buckets over your ruined shoes. (Click the pics for details...)


Abaeté for Payless Kaye Pleated Boot, $48.00


Abaeté for Payless Camelia Watch, $22.00


Abaeté for Payless Rose Ruffle Pump, $35.00


Abaeté for Payless Chantal Cuff Watch, $22.00


Abaeté for Payless Bing Clutch, $25.00

The vest is making a strong showing this fall as it fits nicely within the menswear-inspired fashion trend. But make no mistake: Rich fabrics like velvet, taffeta, sequins and satin give this look an up-to-date and decidedly feminine attitude. Here are a few budget-friendly vests that caught our eye...

[1] Satin Tuxedo Vest, $17.80 [2] Taffeta Vest, $19.80


[3] Hinkley Pinstripe Vest, $22 [4] Velvet Vest, $17.80


[5] Victorian Velvet Vest, $19.80 [6] Tartan Velvet Vest, $17.80


Vests inspired by the runway...


Left: Ann Demeulemeester Fall 2007 Ready-to-Wear runway; Right: Twelve by Twelve sequin vest, $26


Left: Wool Blend Vest, $19; Right: Rag & Bone Fall 2007 runway

Styling options with vests seem limitless...dress them up or down, for day or night, work or play. What do you think, will you be rocking a vest this winter?

See even more great vests - or waistcoats as they're called in the UK - at Topshop.com.