InStyle

Short and Sweet

Cream of the Crop

NOTE FROM ALISON

Hello, and welcome back to What's In Style. This dispatch is set to land in your inbox the first day of fashion week in New York, which will give us a glimpse of the best that Big Apple designers have been cooking up for spring. What I love about the bi-yearly event, perhaps even more than seeing the new looks, is that the mass gathering of so many industry people serves as a general barometer of the current state of style. That said, you'll find a solid pulse check on what's worth your time clothing- and culture-wise in our fresh September issue as well (out today!). Our latest lineup covers everything from fall's must-have bolero jackets (they're baaaa-ck) to why the quality of mass-produced clothing has dwindled these last few decades.

There's also a deep dive into the world of Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra jewelry (written by yours truly), covering everything from the collection's history to how its iconic four-leaf clover motif has evolved. Meanwhile, we check in with designer Tory Burch on how she's been using her globally beloved brand to uplift other women trying to build something bigger than themselves. And if you're just seeking some shopping ideas, check out our latest Instant Style section, which zeros in on the charm trend dominating our feeds (and closets) right now. While I know you, sadly, won't be reading these features to, from, or on summer vacation, I hope they'll put you in the mood for packed calendars and crisp weather—they sure did for me.

— Alison Syrett Cleary, interim fashion features director