Fall’s fabulous 7

Those who have been hitting the end-of-summer sales have no doubt seen the trickle of fall looks arriving on store racks, and you can see the "Magnificent Seven" trends beginning tomorrow, as Neiman Marcus presents the Trend Event during store hours through Aug. 23.

Some may view the latest objects of desire in terms of seven deadly sins to be conquered. Certainly, no one needs lace, satin or a high-vamp shoe to feel complete, but how many are actually able to resist temptation?

It will be easy enough to see who succumbs by keeping your eye on the street. The scarlet letter in this case is not scarlet at all, but cast with blue in eye-catching fuchsia, grape, violet and other juicy hues fit for a berry compote. Just watch.

Here's what to look for:

Color: Saturated shades of bright magenta to deep purple offer a fresh pop of color amid fall's more somber grays and blacks.

Sleek shapes: Slim sheaths and pencil skirts make a break from recent voluminous, trapeze forms.

Romantic blouse: Ruffles, bows, pleats and flounces offer a feminine counterpoint to menswear-inspired fabric and masculine tailoring that have also emerged for fall.

Lace: Seen in shoes and handbags, lace adds a feminine and romantic finishing touch to the season's modern, linear silhouette.

Satin: A touch of shine doesn't have to be limited to your jewelry box. Satin adds movie-star glamour to festive evenings out.

High-vamp shoes: The vamp is the upper part of a shoe that helps hold the shoe to the foot. Look for a complex vamp in lace-up or peep-toe bootie forms that climb close to the ankle.

Statement jewelry: Bright, bold pieces bring polish and glamour to the season, with Art Deco lines.

As for men, be on the look-out for shades of gray, the return of the peak-lapel jacket, pea coats, cardigans and vests.