I know there are several of you reading who waffle on the whole real or faux leather debate. For those of you partial to pleather, you're in luck for Fall 2010 (as a pleather skirt certainly is more budget-friendly than the real deal). But let's be honest, does pleather look as good or last as long as the real deal? Doubtful. Regardless your stance on the real/faux debate, the leather skirt is a strong statement piece for Fall. If you're going to purchase one new skirt for your FW 2010 wardrobe, you should buy a leather pencil skirt. A simple and sophisticated style, a leather pencil skirt is an item of clothing you'll keep in your closet forever. The silhouette is slimming, the material's supple, and the look is classic.

While there are several covetable confections from some of our favourite designers (Michael Kors, anyone?) those of us on a budget want something wallet-friendly. Enter this Halogen® lambskin leather pencil skirt. I'm loving the cut of the leather, the wide waistband (figure-friendly, hello!), and the laser-cut seams. This Halogen® leather skirt is fully lined and has a back zip with a hook-and-eye closure. It measures 21.5-inches long, so on women of an average height the hem should hit at your knee or just above. Pair with a crisp white blouse, or a black cashmere turtleneck sweater and classic pumps. Love!

_{Halogen lambskin leather pencil skirt, about $244 CDN, Nordstrom}

Dearest Readers:

It's no surprise to you that I've had a long-standing love affair with New York-based retail dream, J.Crew. I forget exactly when it first happened, but somewhere between my first schoolboy blazer and J.Crew Collection cashmere dress, I fell in love. Originally launched in 1983, the J.Crew label boasts practical and preppy designs that are staples in sophisticated wardrobes everywhere.

Of all the women's new arrivals for this week, I simply can't resist this metallic sequined bell skirt. Spanish metal sequins are artfully sewn on the skirt for a sweet, shimmer effect. The sequins are coloured in shades of bronze and copper, and they've actually been oxidized for an antiqued look. Sounds fabulous, right? All it takes is one look and you'll be sold, too.

And the sequins, while certainly the most stunning aspect of this J.Crew mini skirt, aren't my favourite part. My favourite feature of this J.Crew sequin skirt has to be the elastic waist. LOVE! Not only is an elastic waist completely comfortable and figure-friendly, it also makes this skirt super versatile. You can style this J.Crew mini skirt high-waisted or you can sling it down on your hips and wear it low. You can add even more depth by adding additional cinch to the waist with a belt.

This J.Crew skirt can make your everyday look more elegant, and you can use it to add some shimmer to your evening look. This skirt is a must-have for your closet's Fall 2010 collection, and it's right on par with the earthy, brown and gold-tones that were highlighted on the Fall RTW runways.

I'm loving it, are you? Find me on Twitter @hoperobertson and let me know more of your must-haves for Fall 2010!

_{Metallic sequined bell skirt, $275, J.Crew}

I am absolutely loving Ralph Lauren's Addington leather skirt. Some women have a misconception that leather can't - or shouldn't - be worn during the day and at the office, but I beg to differ. This leather skirt is completely classy.

Like every piece by Ralph Lauren, with this leather skirt you're investing in a timeless skirt that will definitely become a go-to item in your closet.

Check the straight cut, the flattering back-shaping darks, the flat welt pockets, and defined waistline. HOT.

I'd style it monochromatic with a body-hugging black turtleneck, or go classic chic with a crisp white shirt.

And I'd always ALWAYS wear it with heels.

_{Ralph Lauren Addington Leather Skirt, $598, Ralph Lauren Blue Label}

Check, check, check it out!

So I was just perusing ShopBop’s offerings for their FABulous extra 25 percent off sale, and found a few items that qualify, a few items that don’t, –

And ALL things that are worth a closer look.

I’m especially loving the few jackets marked down by one of my favourite designers, Diane von Furstenberg.

Check out these and my other picks at ThisNext.com.