Clothing Patterns

Hi all!  I was just wondering if anyone had any suggestions for simple clothing patterns in cute styles?  I have been sewing for a while now, but I've never learned to use a pattern.  I use tutorials all the time, but I want to be able to really learn the ropes of apparel making.  So I need something easy to read, simple, and good for someone without a serger as well.

Any suggestions are welcome.  Thanks in advance!

I don't know if they qualify as "patterns" but I love the "Sew What!" books (Sew What! Fleece and Sew What! Skirts).  They don't come with patterns but rather guide you in making your own based on your body measurements - it's super easy and you get a good fit every time! 
http://www.amazon.com/Sew-What-Skirts-Fabulous-Fabrics/dp/1580176259/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1238249925&sr=8-1
http://www.amazon.com/Sew-What-Fleece-Carol-Jessop/dp/1580176267/ref=pd_bbs_sr_3?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1238249925&sr=8-3

Other than that I have only ever used the patterns found at my local fabric store (Simplicity, Butterick, McCalls).  Simplicity's "New Look" line often has a lot of cute patterns.  You can check them out online at http://www.simplicity.com/.  I can often pick these up for $1 at my fabric store so it's an economical choice too.  This site is also helpful when you are trying to pick a good pattern: http://sewing.patternreview.com/.  I do know from reading Sew Mama Sew and the posts in this forum that there are lots of other pattern companies out there.  I will look forward to reading what others reccomend!  Have fun!

Thanks for the suggestions!  I had heard good things about both of those books, and I might purchase the skirt book in the near future. 

Unfortunately, I can't just go and browse the cheap patterns.  I live in Germany, and the patterns are much more pricey here.  BUT I can find pattern numbers and have my mother pick them up.  She went and perused the other day for me, and picked up a few she thought I'd like.  We'll see if she did well.

And I will certainly check out the pattern review site, that's super helpful.  Thanks again!

For an intro to garment sewing, I'd recommend S.E.W. Sew Everything Workshop by Diana Rupp
http://www.amazon.com/Sew-Everything-Workshop-Diana-Rupp/dp/0761139737/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1238972631&sr=8-1

She has some really good advice about sewing with patterns plus there are several full-sized patterns that come with the book and other projects that you can easily draft yourself.