I believe every designer you have listed (and not) meets the needs of women.  The problem or solution is who best meets your needs, and even then, that will change season to season and as you age.

For me, fashion isn’t about the trendy, but rather building a wardrobe over time that reflects who you are.  A few really good pieces in a season, cheaper on the whimsical, and sometimes you have to cave and splurge and buy something solely on it’s being a work of art or the level of craft.

Well made items last, but you also, have a responsibility to care for them. Four(?)  summers ago, I purchased a straw Michael Kors  handbag with exaggerated weave and woven leather handles with metal trim.  For a summer straw bag, it was pricey, but I received compliments on it all that summer, and each season since.  It’s had it’s knock-offs, but you still can’t hide the design and craftsmanship of the original.  I’ll be carrying it again this summer.

I’m surprised to see no mention of Zelda.  The retro suiting goes beautifully from black tie to jeans-plus, and the line accommodates curves. 

 I love Eileen Fisher at least as much as I love Zelda; her clothes are beautifully made in lovely fabrics, and they can be taken in to allow for a a more custom look.  

I love Eileen Fisher. Why? The clothing fits well, feels soft, pliant and comfortable, and really lasts season to season, year to year. I also do a lot of online shopping at J.Jill, and love their designs for the same reasons. And I was a little surprised that Ralph Lauren wasn’t on the list. His clothing is always in good taste, well-constructed and charming.

Now, if I had unlimited funds, yes, I’d be wearing Balenciaga, Lanvin and La Croix (and I am SO happy La Croix’s house was saved from bankruptcy - the man is an artist!)

But on my budget, I will stick to a few pieces from Fisher, J. Jill and Ralph Lauren and fill in with careful shopping at TJ Maxx and Marshalls. I try to stick to simple, clean designs and then spark them up with accessories to make them curre nt and "trendy" - although frankly, trendiness has gotten way out of hand in recent years. Since when do I need to take style tips from the likes of Paris Hilton or the krazy Kardashian kids? After all, I grew up wanting to dress like Lauren Bacall and Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn and Katherine Hepburn. And I still do!