That said, is it possible to recreate all of the hottest fall trends without leaving the city limits, (gas is, after all, four bucks a gallon), and without breaking the bank? Well, yes! If only finding a reliable baby sitter, a convenient parking space, or the perfect man was this easy or this much fun.

First things first — The Trends.

Everyone knows purple is the color of royalty and subsequently synonymous with pop legend Prince, but Alice Walker in her Pulitzer Prizewinning novel put it best, “I think it pisses God off if you walk by the color purple…and don’t notice it.”

You don’t have to be a believer to recognize the value in being noticed. That’s the whole point isn’t it? Who wants to spend time, money and energy finding the perfect outfit only to walk into a room and have no-one say a word? Come on. We stylish women want to be noticed. We want to be complimented. So, whether it’s a violet purse, a magenta blouse, or an eggplant trench coat, remember that purple reigns supreme this fall.

For far too long shoes and purses have stolen the spotlight, leaving belts to play a bit part as the forgotten step-child of accessories. But, partially thanks to Sarah Jessica Parker in Sex and the City and the black studded number she wore in just about every scene, no more! This fall belts are taking center stage and luckily they are far more affordable than their more famous siblings. The good news doesn’t end there though, as this season belts are an equal opportunity accessory. Wide, skinny, elastic, sequined, metallic – there’s no end to the choices or the way to wear them. Cinched tight under the breast bone, fitted on the waist or slung low on the hips, the right belt can pull any look together. They can also hide a multitude of sins. Attended one too many barbecues this summer and have the stomach pooch to prove it? A properly placed belt will quickly become your new best friend. Oh, and don’t shy away from color. Break up that little black dress with a skinny yellow croc belt or a wide emerald green one, giving a new twist to an old fave.

It’s no wonder this sexy-yet-girly look is a holdover from spring. So, with any luck, you already have some in your closet. If not, treat yourself to a little drama and a whole lot of romance as only ruffles can deliver. On the collar of a frilly blouse, at the hem of daring dress, or anywhere in between, ruffles say, “I feel pretty, oh so pretty,” like nothing else.

Perfect for those notoriously cool California nights and easier on the wallet than the East Coast alternative of a statement coat. Not that a sweater coat can’t make a statement. Coupled with a tailored wool dress you’ll exude quiet sophistication. Thrown over the southern Cali uniform of tight t-shirt and jeans and Eureka! You’re ready for whatever the day or night has to offer.

No surprise here, boots are back. They may go out of season, but they never go out of style. Knee high, ankle length, fur lined, PETA approved, it’s all fair game. Two trends to look for is a rounder toe and a flatter heel. Thank goodness for that – with gas prices the way they are, we may just have to, gasp, actually walk in them.

Now that you know the top five trends to look for, the question becomes…where to find them? Second Street offers a plethora of options.

First up is Eden, by far the most pocket-friendly and lively shop on the Belmont Shore strip. There is plenty of purple sprinkled throughout the store, a particular favorite being a Re:Sound, A-line pocket skirt ($108) that could be worn bare-legged with ballet slippers or with tights and high heeled boots. Also be on the lookout for this item that covers two hot fall trends in one top – a Collective Concepts purple spaghetti strap blouse with petal-shaped ruffles draped across the chest ($63). Be sure not to leave the store without at least trying on the bargain of the day, a Marineblu black long sleeved peek-a-boo sheer ruffled blouse with a gathered waist ($40). Rock it casually with jeans or be red carpet ready and couple it with a tuxedo pencil skirt.

Travel a few blocks down to Blue Windows, where former shop girl, now owner, Heather Duncan is all too happy to show you their varied collection of belts, with prices ranging from $58 for a Brave silver studded skinny to $155 for a wide half chocolate leather/half mocha colored mesh cincher. There’s also a very wicked Free People emerald green hooded sweater coat. The belt and aptly placed side pockets make this a figure flattering winner. Since jeans are a year round must-have, check out Blue Windows refreshing, modern, something-for-everyone collection of Kasil jeans.

Next door, you’ll find the belle of the ball, otherwise known as La Bella. A ten-year city favorite for those in the know and a soon-to-be repeat haunt for those just hearing about the oh-so-chic boutique for the first time. From the moment you enter this cheery and not too cluttered shop, you know you’ve stumbled on to something special. Though by far the priciest shop on the strip, the quality of their merchandise is worth every hard-earned penny. If you could only afford to buy one thing this season, make it the ivory cable knit, double-breasted, sweater coat by Dolan ($460), a hometown girl who used to work at the store before striking out to become what is sure to be a designer to watch. She has a very inspired fall line of draping blouses, wool pleated skirts, and silk dresses.

The back of the store is a treasure trove of a shoe salon. Standouts are a pair of Anouk camel suede western-style boots ($225) and a dressier pair of Dolce Vita midnight black suede, oval toe, flat heeled boots ($225).

Now that you are properly armed with all the what and the where, there’s only one thing left to do… go shopping, of course.