The shoulder pads are supposed to be there...

Well, by the time you read this, school will be back in session, football games will be Friday night highlights and the weather will be turning (a little) cooler.

As autumn approaches, we’ve put together a little primer on some of the trends you’ll be seeing on store racks as you peruse the fall fashion offerings. A lot of designers have gone back to the ’80s for inspiration, so don’t be alarmed if you find a suit jacket with shoulder pads...they’re supposed to be in there.

Our cover woman for this issue is Inez Ribustello, and she is as charming as she is smart. Inez grew up in Tarboro, moved away to live and work in the fast-paced metropolis of New York City, became a noted wine expert, fell in love, and on a fateful day in September of 2001, realized there really was, “no place like home.”

So, we got Inez back.

Today, Inez and her husband, Stephen, run On the Square in Tarboro. It’s a favorite hangout of locals (and food lovers from all over) and features gourmet cuisine for a small-town price and a wine list that’s unmatched.

I love Spaine Stephens’ story about Inez, because it is a good illustration of what really is important in life: love and family. Inez is truly a wealthy woman, rich with the love of a tight-knit family.

Be sure to check out Charm online at rockymounttelegram.com/charm. There are a few stories and features that we couldn’t fit in this issue, and you can check them out online.

Also, check out the Charm Chicks blog on our Charm page. Because you can never have too much Charm in your life!

Jenny White