As I write this for our second issue of Chicago Fashion, it is an almost-balmy 55-degree day in the middle of January-a rare gift. My thoughts turn to spring and expectations of lingering walks along the lakefront, of espresso at an outdoor café fragrant with lavender blooms. I look forward to exchanging layers of cashmere for floral-print silk blouses, flamenco-style cropped pants, wooden wedge sandals, and bare legs.

The spring fashion shows were among the strongest in recent years, making me long for a quick arrival of the season. The models on the runways hit their stride in everything from matador-inspired jackets and pants to delicate lace dresses and light-as-air evening gowns.

As I traveled from New York to Paris for the spring and summer shows, my wish list grew.

There are fresh choices for everyone. If you are tired of low-ride pants and skirts, relief is in sight with the return of the tapered waist. See our story What a Cinch! Although black was the dominant color for fall 2005 and it reappears this spring, white and other light hues are the season’s leaders. Check out our selections in Shades of Pale. (And be sure to have your dry cleaner on speed dial.) We are also highlighting the new must-haves-from cowgirl-inspired separates to chic shorts for evening-in The Latest, The Greatest.

As I watched the Weather Channel and realized that today’s temperate spell was nothing but a tease, I daydreamed about future pleasures-having lunch al fresco dressed in a white eyelet blouse and a pouffy skirt belted at the waist, feeling footloose in wedge sandals, loving the scents of espresso and lavender.

	Stacey Jones Fashion Director