Washington, D.C. - September 25, 2006

Point Taken

Emphasis

Great Aunt Carol not leaving you so much as a bowl from her estate was her final way of letting you know you should have come around more often. And the poor sap blind date who kept licking your ear was really just trying to let you know that he was interested.

Oh, what we wouldn’t do for a little more subtlety now and again.

Like Emphasis, the new line from fashion vets Jak & Rae. The clothes manage to be stylish — without hitting you over the head about it.

The collection is feminine, but not in a saccharine (or insulting) way. A pink jacket that’s gathered at the waist is offset by military epaulets. A sexy black cowl-neck tunic is long enough to make it work-appropriate. A cozy stone sweater is fall’s answer to the worn-in college sweatshirt.

But the very best part may be the reasonable prices, which could inspire you to load up on everything in the collection.

Really. No need to be subtle with your own objects of desire.

Available at Lettie Gooch, 1911 9th Street NW, between T and U Streets (202-332-4242 or lettiegooch.com).