"It is rare that we see anything truly fresh in the fashion world. Styles change slowly, with a subtle change here and there that is a progression rather than a revolution. Designers often look to the past for ideas that they can modernize to fit the current need, and in so doing, give us a desire for simpler times.

"While it can not be said that caplet sleeves and collars are entirely new, the way they are presented this season gives them an air of novelty.

"The most frequent place these are seen are on coats and jackets. The designs falling into two types. The first is that of a collar-cape combination, that serves as a decorative drape over the shoulders and is seamed to the front to create a collar. Often these are also rolled away to form lapels, but just as often they are left open or buttoned to create the impression of an entirely separate garment.

"The second is of the type that forms both collar and short sleeve. These are cut in a manner to attach at the neckline with enough fullness so that a separate sleeve is not used. Clearly these are most often meant to be worn for warm days or for afternoon events where the weather is not a concern.

"In the shaping these are charmingly varied. Some being simply rounded like a circle - others cut more severely with sharp angles which provide an interesting contrast to the eye. Single or many rows of top stitching are added at the edges to provide a tailored trim - as the garments this year are very much without frills.

"In blouses we see the same trend - though the shapes are much more varied. An asymmetrical look is prevalent. Where in one finds that the collar may be shorter or differently shaped on one side from the other. At first sight these may seem unappealing -- but the more often they are seen being worn -- the more often they will become quite popular."