Fall fashion, here we come: Preview pics of the Comme des Garçons Collection for H&M are out, and it doesn't take a genius to see they're distinctly representative of Rei Kawakubo’s avant-garde style. Whether or not you can see yourself actually wearing these pieces, they're certainly conversation starters. If you can get your hands on just one item, I'd grab the harem aka drop-crotch pants (so very adventurous). Many of the jackets seem well-crafted and quite easy to wear. The color palette also keeps this collection accessible. So what do you think?

My relaxing, computer-free cruise to Bermuda was a blast, and now I'm catching up on all the fashion news I missed. Here's what's been going on, in case you missed it, too:

• Agyness Deyn topped Grazia Magazine's best dressed list for the second year running, followed by Gwyneth Paltrow, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Carla Bruni-Sarkozy. [via UK PopSugar]
  
  


• 
  Thakoon will design the next diffusion line for Target (yay!), which will launch in December and be available in Target stores and online through January. [via New York Magazine]
  
  


• Sit down for this one: Rumor has it Alexander McQueen is on tap to do a Target Go International collection! [via British Vogue]

I was recently invited to review ShopBarbara brand clothing, the newly launched, self-named line from ShopBarbara, a contemporary women's fashion and lingerie store with four retail locations in Miami plus their online shop. Ever-eager to explore the latest cheap-n-chic fashion frontiers, I clicked on over to their site... and was instantly pleased with what I saw.

Right off the bat, I noticed a huge selection of maxi-dresses (I counted over 35 styles), all at reasonable prices (under $100). To gauge the quality in real life, I opted for a long, black tank dress ($48, above right). It looked feminine, elegant and effortless--something I figured I could wear for years, and could dress up or down.

Left: Looks from Plenty by Tracy Reese for Keds; Designer Tracy Reese

Fashion designer Tracy Reese is collaborating with Keds to create a new line of fun footwear, Plenty by Tracy Reese for Keds, which will include peep-toe wedge sneakers, skimmers and ballet flats inspired by elements from her Spring 2009 collection. Prices will range from $65 to $80, and the line will be available in March 2009 at keds.com, Tracy Reese boutiques and select department and specialty stores nationwide.

"Keds has a unique feminine aesthetic coupled with fun, whimsical designs," said Reese. "I am thrilled to collaborate with such an iconic brand and excited about fusing the Plenty by Tracy Reese eclectic and wordly designs with casual footwear."

Ms. Reese definitely rocks, but I'm not really a fan of Keds. I'd rather see her do a line for Target. And why is everything "iconic" these days? That word is so played out.

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Cleaning diamonds doesn't exactly sound like a budget fashion topic, but taking care of the things that matter most is certainly important for the budget-conscious fashionista. In other words, we may not have a lot of them, but when we do get our hands on a diamond, we want to make sure she shines and looks her best at all times. Which is why I rely on domestic goddess Martha Stewart when cleaning my diamond stud earrings--her trusted method provides a simple, cost-effective way to keep that ice gleaming. Here's how Martha says you should clean your diamond jewelry:

"A cold-water soak is an effective method to clean diamonds. Use six parts cold water to one part household ammonia, soak for 30 minutes, and drain on paper."

How do you care for your diamond jewelry?