FASHION The end of a season signals beginning of hunting best buys

As summer's end approaches, apparel prices begin to fall.
SCRIPPS HOWARD
Signs abound that the days of summer are numbered.
Night comes just a little bit sooner. Families dash away to squeeze in last-minute vacations. Kids' thoughts turn from lounging to learning, as schools reopen their doors.
At department stores and boutiques across the county, fall merchandise has started to arrive. However, racks and displays are still full of summer clothing, accessories and shoes. There is only one way to remedy the problem: Have a big sale.
End-of-season clearance events are in full swing. We're talking major markdowns. The stuff is practically free.
Bargains like this are hard to pass up, but buyers beware. Not all that is cheap is a good deal. To find out what reduced-price spring and summer pieces are big-time finds, some fashion experts were consulted. Here are some picks:
UDiscount denim. Denim is the quintessential fabric that flows into every season.
A pair of jeans is hard to beat. Stores have slashed the prices on many of their designer jeans. Grab a pair of low-priced low-risers and wear them this fall. To make sure they make the transition smoothly, stay away from jeans that scream, "summer!" Avoid light-washes and seasonal appliques. Instead, go for ones with darker finishes and a simple design.
Another prime piece is a denim skirt, preferably a mini. Short skirts, which returned to the spotlight in the spring, seem to be in for the long haul, or at least for fall. They will look great with next season's must-have tall boots.
Perhaps the ultimate discounted denim treasure would be a jacket. It can be teamed with variety of pieces, and it will keep a fashionista warm on cool fall nights.
UBottom-line tops. A blouse or sweater can make an outfit.
Perhaps the most versatile one on sale racks today is the tank-style shell.
Look for tanks in a variety of fabrics, from silk to cotton.
Another top to consider is the knit sweater. This piece, a remnant from earlier spring and resort collections, is heavy enough to be worn in the fall with substantial pant or skirt.
UDrastically reduced dresses. Designers cooked up droves of dresses for spring. Because of this, stores have some tasty leftovers.
These can work on a few levels. First, buy a sundress for spring and summer 2004. The garment will come in handy for next year's warm-weather parties and weddings.
Also, a spring dress can be worn in the fall. The key is to lean toward richer colors (no pastels) that work in the months ahead. A denim jacket to top it and a pair of boots can finish it.
Thinking about something for a formal affair? Now is the time to buy that dream evening dress, sometimes marked down to less than $100.
USplashy savings. Although pool season is still in full swing, swimwear prices are already sinking.
Many designer women's suits, which are often $100-plus, have been discounted 40 to 50 percent.
Men find the best buys in this area. It is not unusual to find a pair of $40 trunks for about $10. This is great time to stock up or just to replace a pair of worn water warriors.
UMade in the shades. Spring and summer are the big seasons for sunglasses. However, eyes need protection year-round.
As we get closer to fall, the prices for sunglasses decrease. Right now, 25-to-30 percent discounts are most prevalent. It won't be long before half-price sales are in full force. So this is an opportune time to run for shades.
UFinal-reduction finishing touches. Some of the best end-of-season deals are found in shoe, handbag and jewelry departments. There are plenty of 50, 60 and even 70 percent discounts.
Among the shoe-ins to wear next spring and summer are casual flip-flops and sandals for men and women. For fall use, ladies should go for classic silhouettes, such as pumps, sling-backs and mules in neutral tones.
Premium purses include the popular straw bag that was made for warm weather. This year, varieties with various scenes and elaborate embellishments were the rage. Also, leather handbags are always good choices. Grab one in tan, brown or black. It can be carried forever.
Bargain-basement baubles are plentiful this time of year. Among the bounty is trendy turquoise, blue stone, amber, tumbled-bead and semiprecious stone jewelry. Happy bargain hunting.