FASHION / FALL IN THE CITY : ‘What’s Hot? What’s Not?’

KIMBERLY WILLIAMS, 25, administrative assistant, West L.A. “I love the menswear looks. I just bought a pin-stripe pantsuit.”

SUZANNE HAIRABEDIAN, 27, telephone sales and bookkeeping, Granada Hills “I would consider buying something with an animal print, but only in accessories.”

LINDA WONG, 47, account manager, West L.A. “I’m buying a lot more than last year because I didn’t buy anything last year. The styles, the short skirts, didn’t fit me. I’d try a longer skirt, but not the skinny ones. I like a fuller skirt.”

DEBRA WILLIAMS, 32, administrative assistant, Altadena “This year is better than most for shopping. I’ve been able to find a large selection of clothes at good prices. That’s probably due to the recession. I’d buy a long skirt because it gives you a longer, sleeker look. I wouldn’t buy platform shoes because they’re not flattering.”

MARIA BOTELLO, 26, legal secretary, Covina “I’m happy long skirts are coming in. I would spend no more than $60 for a long skirt because you also have to buy all the right things to wear with it--a top and a belt. The change in fashion means you have to buy more new pieces.”

ROCHELLE KELLEY, 28, executive secretary, North Hollywood “This is the most excited I’ve been about fall clothes in a long time, maybe because I can afford a bit more this year. It’s going to be a really good season. I think long skirts look good. They’re professional and they’re sexy. I’d like to get a slim one in navy blue with a pin stripe.”

BARBARA DIXON, 36, executive secretary, San Gabriel “Miniskirts are too short for the office. I really like the long skirts and I think they look good with a short jacket, a white blouse and a pretty scarf. Mobility isn’t a problem as long as the skirt has a little slit.”

LINDA KIM, 22, bookkeeper, Cerritos “I’m spending a lot more because I am just joining the work force. I love menswear looks. I’d consider buying a long skirt, as long as it’s conservative.”