They’re here, they’re here!! Yes, I’m that excited about the fall 2009 cardigans from Charlotte Tarantola that have started showing up in my Personal Shop. Why twice the celebration and twice the exclamation marks? Because I already have my eye on two new Charlotte Tarantola sweaters, and there’s no way I can choose between them.

Oh, the antique-inspired details, the flattering ribbing and stretch, the beautiful buttons that never seem incidental…I can’t think of anyone who’s done quite what Charlotte has for the classic cardi. And if you’re thinking these devastatingly darling designs are just layering pieces, think again. Many have full-length button plackets and not-too-plunging necklines that make them perfectly wearable as tops as well, which is the number-one reason I’ve been investing in quality cardigans for years. They’re the ultimate wardrobe multitaskers.

The short-sleeved cable-knit style to the left could be layered over a tank, tee or pretty blouse, but it could work as a top with a pencil skirt and textured stockings, skinny jeans and flats or flared jeans and flip-flops. Though it’s not classified as a neutral, maroon is actually a very versatile color too. (I currently have a long-sleeved maroon cardigan that I wear with black, white, beige, brown, gray and even blue, green or gold.) Plus, check out those handy patch pockets—super for holding your apartment key while you take an early autumn walk. While this charming piece works nicely on an M like me, it’s also fabulous for A and H figures because of all the interesting detail that highlights the upper body.

As for the lace-trimmed number on the right, well, aside from being completely gorgeous and easy to coordinate with anything from a cocktail dress to bermudas, the contrasting placket and jet buttons create a slimming center line that’s very flattering on an M, S or H. The sleeves are ever-so-slightly puffed, adding to the look’s femininity without bulking up the shoulders, and the fabric is 3% spandex, giving it a nice curve-tracing stretch that’s also forgiving. A lightweight cardi like this can be folded up and placed in your purse when it gets too hot, so it’s a good choice for days that start out cool and turn into scorchers or if your office feels like the arctic when it’s 90 degrees outside.