Express, Liza Minnelli, John Lennon top list of fall fashion trends

Back in the early ’80s, Express was the ultimate in cool, trendy and affordable clothing for young women and the young at heart. Neon green V-neck sweater? Got it at Express. Rubber and rhinestone bangles? Express. Bananarama-esque denim overalls? Express, of course.

What’s doing at Express lately? Judging from its fall line for men and women, we’re talking tailored-but-trendy suits and separates for men and women alike. And there are lots of cool jeans, and some playful, casual stuff for day and night, too.

The national retailer, a division of Limited Brands, sells men’s and women’s clothing. Here’s what not to miss:

For men, we like the lightweight wool jacket ($178) paired with the classic flat-front wool Producer pant ($78). Or you can just toss on a pair of jeans and layer the jacket over a High Powered striped button-front shirt ($49.50) and a Salt Wash Hoodie sweatshirt ($49.50) and look oh-so hip and carefree.

For women, we can’t seem to get enough of the Editor Pant ($78), a combination of wool with a little stretch that has a flat front and is cut long and lean with a slight flare to the leg. Wear it with a cute cashmere Mini T ($58) or a sharp-looking Yarn-Dye Stripe shirt ($49.50).

For an Express store near you, go to www.expressfashion.com.

The Liza look

Before Liza Minnelli was known for her hip replacement surgery and her unusual taste in spouses, the glamour gal was known for her eyelashes. Liza’s lashes were long, inky black and perfectly feathered.

M.A.C. has introduced a cosmetics line inspired by the gal who has everything. The Liza look for day is soft and peachy for the eyes with dramatic, loud Liza Red lipstick ($14) and nail polish ($8). As for the lashes, get them by gluing on a pair of Liza Lash AM faux eyelashes ($9) and applying liberal coats of Pro Lash mascara in coal black ($9.50).

For night, come to a cabaret with Fabulous Fuchsia lipstick ($14), Kicky Blue and Showstopper eye shadow ($32) and a pair of full, diva-long Liza Lash: PM faux lashes ($8.50).

Hey, nobody said being glamorous was easy.

All you need is jewelry

In his lifetime, John Lennon was known for his songwriting ability, artistic talent and political views. Now he can be known for his jewelry line, too.

The John Lennon Jewelry Collection features sterling silver and solid gold pieces featuring Lennon’s art and messages. Look for such items as unisex rings inscribed with the words “Real Love” and “Imagine.” “Give Peace A Chance” sterling silver cuff bracelets and sterling silver key rings featuring Lennon’s self portrait. Maybe it’s true. Maybe all you need is jewelry, jewelry is all you need.

The John Lennon Jewelry Collection costs $50 to $400. For a store near you, go to www.johnlennonjewelry.com.