KNITS FOR FALL

In the 3,000 years since the first snippet of knit was created, it’s been used for everything from nomad’s socks and Coptic caps to swimsuits and pantyhose. Now the freedom fabric is a high-fashion favorite for fall. Knits are comfortable, move with the body, travel well and gently show off the figure. And in the hands of the world’s top designers, they’re shaped to the new proportions of the season: full skirts with narrow tops, narrow skirts with full tops, tubes knitted straight and clingy. Designs are simple and uncluttered, with gently broadened shoulders, defined waistlines and skirts that frequently reach mid-calf or longer. Sweater sets, the most important separates for fall, work for day or evening. And business suits can be anything from flat wool double-knit to cushy cashmere. The ideal topping for all these is a huge jersey or cashmere shawl, the perfect L.A. alternative to a jacket. COORDINATED BY SHAWN HARPER STYLED BY RAYMOND LEE FOR CLOUTIER