So if you're not into being a military maven, then this updated take on vintage dressing with a feminine flair may be more of your cup of tea. You don't have to be a January Jones to go a little "mad." Stir in a few of these "sugar and spice" trends into your fall closet and see just how much fun you can have too.

— Proper purses. Yes, that's a "purse," girls. The structured look is in. Top-handle handbags hark back to days of Grace Kelly — famous for her iconic Hermes satchels. The boxy clutch is another favorite ladylike accessory this fall. Think glamorous lizard-skin in a shimmering metallic.

— Pointy-toe shoes. Whether they're flats, kitten heels or sky-high stilettos, the sharp-toed shoe is the sexy footwear of choice for ladies who like to lunch as well as those who wield all the power in a boardroom. Add a pair of ankle socks for an edgy twist. This season's red patent, leather pointy-toe pump with the black bow by Prada is my hands-down favorite. Watch for the '50s-style penny loafer to make a return, too.

— The full skirt. Remember circle skirts? Or were those poodle skirts? The skirts this fall are fuller and longer — mostly calf-length — no minis for these proper ladies. Pair with a fitted sweater, and you've got the look. For more inspiration, check out the looks in Marc Jacobs' fall collection at Louis Vuitton (www.louisvuitton.com).

— The knit top. Fit and form go hand-in-hand here. Show off your curves in clingy cashmere sweaters or cardigans, which are the perfect complement to the fuller skirts. Top them off with a little fur collar for even more retro inspiration.

— The bow blouse. It's the quintessential feminine staple in fall's roundup of soft favorites. In silky prints or sheer chiffons, the bow is still the symbol of a sophisticated lady who isn't afraid to show off her feminine side. The bow blouse looks elegant with man-tailored suits or teamed with pencil skirts. For a more casual approach, try pairing the tie-neck blouse with a pair of wide-leg jeans.

— The belted jacket. For work this fall, the peplum jacket is great to wear over slim skirts. Skinny belts cinch in the waist of this vintage look that is a flattering alternative to shapeless menswear jackets.

— The lace dress. The frilly fabric dominated the fall runways in feminine frocks as well as separates and accessories. Mix up all the sweetness with a touch of tough fashion love by tossing a leather jacket over a lace dress or a skirt.

— Statement jewelry. How about a sparkling rhinestone brooch? An ornate pendant necklace or a wrist full of clinking charms? Or strands and strands of shiny pearls?

— Gloves, darling. Gloves is another accessory that's de rigueur for the lady of the house — the longer the better. Elbow-length is the epitome of style, especially when worn with the classic sheath dress or three-quarter sleeve coat. Wear your hair in a sleek up-do and add a pair of cat-eye glasses (in tortoise-print). Then channel the fashion spirit of Brigitte Bardot, ladies! Ooh la la!

Photo: Sienna Miller captures the ladylike mood of fall fashion at a British Fashion Council Awards ceremony with her box clutch in gold lizard skin —from the newly relaunched accessories division of French couture house, Jacques Fath.

Sharon Mosley is a former fashion editor of the Arkansas Gazette in Little Rock and executive director of the Fashion Editors and Reporters Association. To find out more about Sharon Mosley and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.