Trends begin with trendsetters, and SXSW 2008 was no exception! There were certainly outfits that spoke volumes; appropriate for a convention celebrating expression through film, music and interactive technologies, but there were definitely some recurring pieces that stood out more than others. Get the cutting-edge creative look with SXSW style and Austin flair!

Boots you can walk in:
Flat, kitten heel, or low-heeled boots with cunning little details carried some of the most fashionable ladies of SXSW throughout their day, and even the guys liked to shake it up with boots and dark denim. These amazing suede boots with frog-closure detail are available via Duo.com for about $283 (£140), and they even come in a wide calf! Also try this flat boot with leather ties by Rizzo at Nordstrom ($179.95). Men should have a look at "Derrick" by Hugo Boss, a pull-on boot with dress-shoe styling at Nordstrom for $350.

Lightweight jackets/blazers:
Keep the wind away but enjoy the warm sun in light jackets in bright colors for spring: try a tipped blazer from Chadwick's on sale for $29.99, or this 3/4 sleeved number from Lane Bryant in a brilliant blue ($49.50).

Badass laptop bags:
Everyone at SXSW has to stay connected to events, media, and whats going on back at the office, so naturally there were some pretty hip laptop bags. I sing the praises of Casauri bags- cute as a button and solid construction in various styles to suit your preference. I myself have one in slate blue and couldn't have made it through the week without it!

Goodbye SXSW fashionistas, and remember- we'll always have Austin!