chichi in my veins

holy shit.

2011-03-07T18:01:00.001-05:00

one full year since my last post?
time to get back on the gang-bang train.

kidding. totally kidding. i'm just gonna start this thing back up again.

much love,
s.

the runaways.

2010-03-04T17:54:00.008-05:00

The Urban Outfitters blog recently posted their interview with Floria Sigismondi – the writer and director behind the upcoming film The Runaways. I felt it was only necessary to share this with you not only because the original tale of the 70s all girl rock band is phenomenal, but this film’s spring debut with likely feature some of the coolest handmade fashions that film has to offer because, hell, that’s how the scene made its mark.

I’ve also included the interview UO did with Carol Beadle (below Floria’s interview) who did the costuming for the film, because if the interview with Floria isn’t necessary, this bloody well is.

Interview with Floria Sigismondi:

Artist Floria Sigismondi had directed a slew of notable music videos for Marilyn Manson, Christina Aguilera and the White Stripes when she was approached to write and direct The Runaways—her first screenplay and feature film. Suffice to say, she nailed it: the movie is a stunning, shocking coming of age tale full of sex, drugs and rock 'n' roll. We talked to Floria as she finished final edits on the film.

Since The Runaways was your first screenplay, what was the first thing you did to prepare to write it?

I did tons of research—I did interviews with all the people in the band, and found out if there were crazy fans from the time, and people who collected memorabilia. I also read hundreds of articles and interviews, which was great to read how the girls would speak in their own voices when they were 16. I immersed myself in the whole scene and what was going on in the mainstream, too, because I thought that was important. From today's perspective, we've seen it all, so that was a question—how do you show that these girls were doing things that no one else was doing?

How did you end up showing that an all-girl rock band really was groundbreaking?

I gave that point of view to Kim [Fowley, the band's producer]. He would say "There's nothing like this on the radio." And also, he talks about what the guys were doing at that time. It was all glam-rock, like they were putting lipstick on each other's, um, you know...[laughs].
Kim Fowley is often given a lot of credit for creating The Runaways. Was the band really his project?

Kim and Joan had the idea for an all-girls rock band at the same time. So when they met, the two of them went out and searched for all the girls together. I don't think it was a product of just Kim, but being the manager and the producer, he organized the auditions with all these girls.

The film really focuses on the friendship between Joan and Cherie. How did you decide to make this the center of the story?

There was already a Runaways documentary already, and I wanted this to be about the band and how they felt, and what it was like to be so young and caught up in this crazy time and a loss of innocence. And Joan and Cherie were best friends, so I gravitated to that. For me, what was important was to get the true essence of each character, to get what they were like rather than get 'Well, this happened and then that happened and then this happened again.' That doesn't work when you're doing a film about something. When do you choose to end someone's story? So with the true essence, it was "Ok, there was a truth in that, if not necessarily the physical action of it."

Was there anything visually that you wanted to bring with you from your past work?

The word that I used to describe it to every department head is "raw." Because a film about the '70s could be a little bit of a caricature, because the '70s were a time of elaborate fashion and home décor. And that's why I love it, but everything was exaggerated, big collars and prints on everything. There would be printed couches, printed carpets, printed wallpaper, another wall would be textured with wood and then the person sitting on the couch would be wearing two different prints! It could become like this cartoon, so I wanted to balance that.

What I love about the '70s is that it was a time when people were a lot more daring in their personal style, and also, you created it. Things were happening—disco was coming out and there was Farrah Fawcett and Charlie's Angels, and then punk was just coming out, but you couldn't go to a store and buy punk, you would have to make it. You had to put your own studs on your jeans, and make your own T-shirts. And in the film, the David Bowie belt-buckle, Cherie made that. The Runaways T-shirts the girls wore, I think an aunt made them. I just love that, people were really daring about their personal style and people had it. If you wore jeans, you really wore them in yourself. You really were committed.

Though this is a story about teenagers, you really didn't sugarcoat anything—it's pretty mature stuff. Were you ever worried about it being too risqué?

Well, they were in a very mature situation, but they were very young, and so it's a coming of age story about how they lose their innocence. I really wanted to get into the mind-frame of being a young girl, as you're starting to grow and people are looking at you a little bit different, but at the same time, being thrown into that rock world. These girls embraced that and wanted that, so that's what they did.

Interview with Carol Beadle:

The Runaways movie is eye candy for anyone who loves platform shoes, rock music and leather jackets. And isn't that all of us? Here, costume designer Carol Beadle talks research, inspiration and David Bowie.

You and director Floria Sigismondi have worked together a lot, right?

We've worked together from the very beginning, and we kind of all got our big break when we did the Marilyn Manson "Beautiful People" video. It was a real collaboration of about four or five people—the art director, hair and makeup, myself and Floria as director. We created a very interesting vibe for that, and just carried it on.

Did you plan on being a costume designer?

I didn't really pay attention to the fact that there were stylists. Now, every little girl wants to be a stylist, and in 1994, I didn't even know that was a job. I wanted to design clothes. I loved it, and went to fashion design school, and just assumed that was what I would do. But within six months of graduating, I was doing costumes.

What was your first step in starting to conceptualize the costumes for The Runaways?

Research, massive, massive research, which I love. I always do lots of research for every single job, because it's super interesting. I've done a lot of period projects, and I also kind of grew up with this. My older brother and sister were in a band. My parents were also really into music, and so from an early age, I was just bombarded with pop culture. My brother was a real glam guy—he wore the platforms and the tight, androgynous clothes, long hair. My older sister was a massive Bowie fan and that trickled down to me. You know, you always think you're the biggest Bowie fan ever—everyone thinks they're the biggest Bowie fan on the planet—but I really was the biggest Bowie fan ever! So a lot of this, I lived it, quite frankly—from the New York Dolls to Roxy Music and Bowie and all the punk stuff.

I went to Amoeba Music [in Los Angeles] and got great music magazines from the '70s, like Circus and Melody Maker, because I wanted to get the real rock 'n' roll vibe. These girls, the Runaways, weren't looking to the Brady Bunch for inspiration, they were looking at their guitar heroes. Cherie was a massive David Bowie fan, so I tried to think of that, and what her inspiration would be at that time. Joan wanted to be the guy, there wasn't anything fluffy about her—and her inspiration was really just Suzi Quatro! She's just tough.

How much of the clothing in the film was vintage, and how much did you make?

There was a lot of vintage, but also augmented vintage that I would add to or subtract from. I designed all of the costumes that they wore onstage in Japan, like the red and silver outfits, the corset, anything that was really specific and referential. The thing with that is—you kind of want to make it better! You want to pump it up. I also designed Cherie's outfit when she does her David Bowie act at the high school talent show, and the leather jacket and pants that Joan wears throughout the film.

What was one of the most fun things about working on this project?

Just being able to do a period piece and have it be close to my heart with fashion and music, and mixing the two. The most challenging aspect was showing the passage of time, that it's a year later and these girls have been to Europe so they're not going to just dress from the Valley. They've seen a few things, but still trying to keep it real.

What do you think are some of the big fashion trends that this movie will start?

Platform shoes are going to be big, though they're already coming back, but I think it's just that spirit of rock 'n' roll dressing. We're already seeing some major designers going with that—look at Balmain. I think kids are just getting a whiff of the '80s, and I think that this film, instead of just showing Madonna and Cyndi Lauper, this film shows earlier, '70s rock chicks and even a bit of punk. The '80s sometimes get a little watered down and perky, but for the girls who are a bit edgier, it will be good for them to look at Dakota and Kristen and think "I could rock that." And then want to pick up a bass!

And, just because I like to share, here is the link to the trailer for your viewing pleasure:

http://blog.urbanoutfitters.com/features/runaways

Much love,
s.

Images, interview, and trailer link c/o Urban outfitters

today, i went to school.

2010-02-09T14:50:00.004-05:00

Lately I have been on the hunt for really well styled outfits that can translate from my campus wear to things that I would stroll around town in, or go out in on a friday night. None of this can translate into Absinthe gear, given the hellish amount of sweat that builds up on my brow from excessive dancing, or the sticky humidity of the basement where we spend most wednesday and saturday nights until 3am.

However, I fully believe that some of these looks would do the trick on any other sort occasion, for example, today, I go from classes, to work, to a casual management dinner with my other co-part-time managers from the students union.

To start things off, I have to mention this menswear look. Not only because it's phenomenal on this beautiful man, but because it would totally look great on me as well. God I love androgynous style.

Out of all of these, I especially love the khaki short get up, as well as charcoal gray menswear blazer with the black and white oxford lace ups. And, of course, the above photograph, which I would like to think is the perfect female version of the top photograph of the gorgeous man in red denim.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o LOOKBOOK

look in the book.

2010-02-03T17:16:00.007-05:00

A casual browse on the LOOKBOOK website is a part of my everyday web browsing. To be serious, though, I actually check the site about four or five times a day when I feel I need to take a break from any sort of mundane task I’m doing. Or to just take a break from work. Or, when I wake up in the morning.

It could happen at any point in the day, really.

However, today, I decided to share some of my favourite looks with you. I browsed through, probably, over one hundred looks – generally the newest and the ones with the most HYPE. These are some of my favourite shots – a job well done to every individual appearing in these photos. You have a great sense of style, and, one day, I hope to have enough cash flow that I too can afford to create a new outfit for every damn day of the year.

I’s a kid of the 90s, so, naturally, I gravitate toward anything acid wash, the same way I gravitate toward lumberjack-plaid. I also love that even though these cut-offs are so ridiculously short, they’re paired with a loose T and a great menswear blazer.

If I was thin enough to pull off great menswear like these following looks, I would. Most certainly, actually, because I love dropped-crotch trousers, a touch of floral, Burberry-chic, and olive green – one of the only colours I actually have in my wardrobe.

The lack of colour in my wardrobe being noted, if I DID do colour, this is how I would do it:

I do not like this dress. At all. In fact, I think it is downright horrible. However, I love this girl’s hair. What would you think if I went all short and uberblonde? Yes? No? Maybe so?

If I could date both of these men, at the same time, I totally would. Just sayin’.

These next four looks are just the epitome of the type of style I love. Not so fashion forward that you’ll walk through the streets of Hamilton and people along the sides of Jackson Square will be thinking, “what the hell”, but enough that I could walk through campus knowing that there is an end in sight to the terrible inclusion of TNA, lululemon, UGGS, and Abercrombie in the wardrobe of nearly every girl.

That’s all. I encourage you to check LOOKBOOK.nu as often as possible. Get inspired, or, inspire someone else.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o LOOKBOOK

two thousand and nine brought sexy way back

2009-12-31T14:35:00.001-05:00

Earlier in December, Refinery29 compiled some of the sexiest editorial shots of the year. I, of course, only felt it necessary to share with you.

If you have some sort of objection to boobs and/or nipples, and hate anything that is very visibly sexual - I would suggest you don't look at this post.

They really are great shots, though. So, I would support you 110% if you checked out these editorial pages.

There are a lot of photos, so be patient. All of them, however, are worth looking at.

(I have not included every photo from every shoot – just the ones I feel deemed the most sexy status – most contain nudity, some, however, do not; you can, however, find entire shoots at Refinery29 or Fashion Gone Rogue).

"Anja & Sasha" by Camilla Akrans featuring Anja Rubik for Man About Town magazine

"Morning Colors" by Marcus Ohlsson featuring Caroline Winberg for S magazine

"Wicked in Berlin" by Mario Testino featuring Carmen Cass for Stern magazine

The French Vogue 2009 Calendar by Terry Richardson featuring Hanne Gaby Odiele, Arlenis Sosa, Lakshmi Menon, Jourdan Dunn, and many more for French Vogue

Sophie Vlaming by Bruno Dayan and Jimmy Backius featuring Sophie Vlaming

"Best Friends" featuring R'el Dade & Melodie Dagault for Numero

"Girl of the Golden Field" by Inez & Vinoodh featuring Daria Werbowy for Vogue Nippon

"Best of the Season" by Terry Richardson featuring Freja Beha Erichsen, Eniko Mihalik, Magdalena Frackowiak, and Abbey Lee Kershaw for Purple Fashion

"Suvi & Hanne" by Paola Kudacki featuring Suvi Koponen and Hanne Gaby Odiele for Purple Fashion

"Gammas and Deltas" by Vanina Sorrenti featuring Myf Shepherd for 10 Magazine

"Série Noire" by Mario Sorrenti featuring Guinevere van Seenus and Eniko Mihalik for Vogue Paris

Enjoy two thousand and ten - help bring sexy back just as strong as two thousand and nine did.

Much love,

Images c/o Refinery29 and Fashion Gone Rogue

jet set

2009-12-30T03:29:00.002-05:00

I am going to start by saying that I did not like the chapter all that much. I really did love Rachel Zoe’s style book. Really – I did. However, this chapter became a little too much for me, especially because I sensed that about two-thirds to three-quarters of it was spent by Rachel complaining (even though the tone seemed to be crossed with a bit of bragging as well), about how much travelling needs to be done and the type of lifestyle she leads.

I just kept thinking to myself, “woman, you chose this. A million people would kill to have your job, and you just complain about how much you have to pack and how terrible it is when your trip get extended form three days to ten because a few people wants some styling done and then, whoops, you got invited to Cannes.” Poor, poor you.

Seriously, I love Rachel Zoe, but I just wanted to be like, you have got one fucking good life, shut the fuck up.

Anyway. If you didn’t know, Rachel’s fourth chapter of her book is about the jet setter – how to become the perfect packer for any situation. I don’t really believe that you can perfectly pack every time you go away. There always seems to be something forgotten, too much packed, something gets lost, stolen, or broken, or you get so sick on vacation you can’t wear any of your stuff anyway – in which case you throw up your hands, deal with it, and enjoy sleeping eighteen hours a day in beautiful 800 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets.

But, if you were to go away in hopes of everything turning out absolutely perfectly, these are the things you should keep in mind.

First off, what you pack is obviously determined by where you’re going. I always say go warm. I love warm weather – and given that it’s nearly January in Hamilton, I am in dire need of a very warm vacation. The only way I would go somewhere cold would be if it involved a ski lodge where I didn’t actually have to ski, but could get massages, sit in a hot tub while wearing a fur trapper hat, and sit inside by a crackling fire drinking some sort of hit beverage spiked with alcohol in the evening. It’s a nice idea, right?

Anyway – no matter where you are going, your luggage needs to be durable. Luggage is always something that should be well invested in – you are going to have it for yours to come. It would be nice if you could get a set, but if you end up having to mix and match pieces, really, what are you going to do right? And investing doesn’t mean you have to go designer either – you can find some pretty affordable luggage in a variety of colours and patterns that fit each individual’s personality perfectly. And I would suggest staying away form going with all black. While it seems like a good idea – classic, sophisticated, good for both business and pleasure travelling – think about waiting for your luggage arriving through that spinning thing once you get off the plane. Now think about how many people have black luggage. It’s going to that much more difficult to find yours. I have a luggage set of really deep chocolate brown. I have four pieces – the large bag, the medium bag, the small bag (the one you can bring on a plane), and a really great oversized tote. I never usually bring the tote with my on vacation – it’s more like an overnight bag I bring to my parents house, or if I’m spending a couple nights at a friends place.

A key thing Rachel says to keep in mind (which, I completely agree with) is to bring on board with you anything you may be scared about putting in your bag. That includes very expensive jewellery, medications – hell, Rachel even brought a gown on board with her before for a client. If it’s important to you – best bringing it on board.

When packing your bag with all the clothing you think you’re going to need when you go on vacation, I’d like to think that you should think about clothing you would wear on your day off, then apply it to your destination. Day off clothing is casual and comfortable – so if you’re heading out to St. Tropez, why not pack a beautiful floor length day dress in a print, all-over print?

If you’re going away for spring break – you should be bring things that are casual and fun; if you’re heading away with a significant other, pick things that veer from a girls night out, to a little more classy but still sexy. For example, if I was to choose a bathing suit for a vacation with girlfriend, I would likely pick on that is maybe a little bit smaller, in a two-tone print, or a bright colour. Or, pairing a single toned top with a different coloured bottom. Much more fun. If I was going away with my significant other, I would be choosing something with a little bit more physical appeal – likely black, but because I think black is sexy, with maybe added details, like a ring in between the cups of a bikini top, and on the sides of a bathing suit bottom. I’d choose a top with a little more push up, and probably also bring a really sleek one piece with cut outs and an open back. Enough skin to show off, but still covered up enough for surprise.

But hey – that’s just me. I pack according to destination, and audience.

I am a pretty damn good packer, so I didn’t really need any of Rachel’s tips. But, if you suck at it, or are one of those people who stuff everything inside, and sit on top of your luggage to zip it shut, you may need these suggestions form Rachel:

- Start with shoes on the bottom. I put mine in sacks, either those that come with the shoes or other drawstring cloth bags, so they don’t get scratched. Protect their shape by stuffing them with socks, tank tops, or something else you are taking with you
- The next layer is any jeans, folded in half
Then layer anything else, laying it flat with as few folds as possible: trousers, sweaters, dresses. On top, place the more fragile items – anything chiffon, beaded, sequined – turned inside out so they won’t catch. I also wrap these pieces in plastic or tissue paper
- Lastly, no matter how tempting, don’t overstuff your bags. Clothes and even shoes end up badly creased. The extra weight can cost you extra dollars at check-in, not to mention incur brutal treatment form baggage handlers, and the case is more likely to explode on the conveyer belt. It just looks bad

If you’re unsure of exactly what you should be packing in your bag, consider who your travel companions are and Rachel’s suggestions:

Single girlfriends: sexy dresses, high heels, and lots of jewellery for a riot of a time
Family: more comfortable outfits, and not as many options, because you can repeat looks with your family
Significant others: their favourite things and yours, including those little nothings that could make your trip sexier
Business associates: business attire that doesn’t easily wrinkle, including a dressy option in case dinner follows the big meeting

Aside from choosing what you’ll be packing for your vacation, there is always that which you’re actually going to wear and take with you on the plane. When travelling, it’s always best to go comfortable over uberglam. Try to keep makeup to a minimal. If you can go with just tinted moisturizer, waterproof mascara, and lip balm, do it. You’ll look better when you come off the plane and aren’t worried about reapplying anything.

Keep your hair pretty natural as well – you never know what humidity or wind could do to it once you step off the plane at your destination.

Stick to comfortable, easy to move in clothing and footwear. I suggest jersey pants or leggings, a cotton T or tank top, and a wrap sweater. While a jacket may be a good idea, you can always pack it in your luggage, and grab it to put on once you pick up your bags and before you head outside.

If you’re heading somewhere cold, try out your UGGS for comfort on the plane and warmth once you get off. Otherwise, opt for a slip on slipper, like Birkinstocks, or a pair of flaps if you’re going somewhere sunny. Neither may be the most glamorous options – but both are the most practical.

Always make sure you have your sunglasses on hand and an oversized pashmina or cashmere scarf – it makes a great wrap or blanket on the plane as well.

Rachel suggests the following things for your bag once on the plane. And, if you lucky enough to be a woman like me, you never seem to be challenged when you board the plane with a mini suitcase as well as your purse. So pack away your necessities and your valuable things in your suitcase and store that immediately overhead. For your purse, try to choose and oversized tote – it will also come in handy if you’re going to the beach, take a road trip on a moped in town, or need to pack a bag to keep on hand in your locker at a ski chalet. Once you have your chosen tote, pack it with the following:

- An oversized pocketbook for passport and tickets, as well as receipts, business cards, and so on
- A hard calendar, instead of a techie device. With schedule changing so much, writing it down as it happens can be helpful. Some things are better left to pen and paper
- A digital camera
- Moisturizer and eye cream
- A toothbrush and toothpaste
- Mints/gum
- Magazines and other reading material
- A favourite scent in travel size to apply right after the flight
- Antibacterial wipes and tissues
- A small mirror and any cosmetic you may need (just in case you are the time that reapplies before landing)

(Travelling in fashion: Lindsay Lohan, fresh off the plane, Hilary Duff carrying a more appropriate number of bags, how celebrities really look after travelling - note the necessity of sunglasses, and a set of Louis Vuitton luggage).

Really, it’s all up to where you’re going and what you’re expecting to happen when you’re deciding what to pack. Keep your travel companion in mind, but keep yourself in mind first. If you pack things that you love – you’ll have a much easier time packing, perhaps even enjoy it, and you’ll have an even better time when you reach your destination.

The following are just miniature lists of things I would bring in my luggage if I was travelling away for a vacation, complete with a little Polyvore set of the perfect outfit I’d wear while away.

Warm Destination
- Flaps for the poolside
- Strappy sandals for evenings to dinner
- 2 pairs of strappy heels for dancing and shows
- 5 evening dress (one for every night)
- 5 bathing suits
- 3 day dresses (who needs clothes when you’re in swimsuits all day!?)
- A giant floppy hat to keep my fair skin from burning
- 3 bottles of sunscreen. I do not tan. I only burn. 3 bottles of a 50 SPF are necessary for me
- A whole load of earrings, but likely no bangles – they have the best exotic looking stuff on islands in the local markets – so worth the money

jet set: st. maarten by sarahbeukema

Cold Destination (so much more difficult – even though I would have to pack absolutely no winter sports gear)
- UGGS
- A whole load of cashmere socks, and a couple pairs of knit legwarmers
- A pair of leggings for each day I’m away
- Long sleeve cotton T’s
- Chunky knit sweaters
- Oversized warp sweaters
- A fur trapper hat to wear in the hot tub
- Two luxe outfits composed of leggings, oversized cowl neck sweaters with drippy sleeves and a fur vest
- A couple swimsuits for the sake of the hot tub

jet set: ski chalet, northern France by sarahbeukema

If I was to go away somewhere warm – everything would be about casual sexiness to me, while going away somewhere cold would be a casual luxe, expensive look. That may be backward to some people – but, I do prefer cold weather clothing to warm, remember.

Enjoy the New Year.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Google Images

the morning after

2009-12-29T07:29:00.001-05:00

What else could possibly follow a night out on the town?

Problem is, for some it’s just “the morning after.” For others it is a – “holy fuck, I have to get to work” type of morning after.

I’m fairly lucky that I am still in school with fairly little responsibility aside from going to classes and maintain a part time job, but even then, I like to be able to be fairly presentable when I face a group of people. Except for those nights that you wake up somewhere aside from your own bed - those mornings are always a wee bit more difficult to figure out.

Another lucky for me, my earliest classes start at eleven thirty in the morning, so I get a whole lot of beauty sleep. Even so, I never feel like dragging myself out of bed, only to look in the mirror and have to apply about four layers of eye cream before I get on with the rest of my routine.

What has become a problem for me, though, is that any night can result in a morning after because I’m still a student. If I was working full time I am sure I would have a little more responsibility to keep my bedtime to… well, anytime earlier than the bars actually turning their lights back on, and I would definitely keep the drinking to a minimum. And, then, I could save my all out nights for Fridays and Saturdays.

Right now? Every night could be a Friday or Saturday night. There is always somewhere to go, some bar offering no cover, or a friend who doesn’t have class the next day, or starts as late as four thirty pm. And I have this big problem with saying no. So I usually always go.

So the morning after? I can totally relate. I just feel real bad for those of you who actually have to go to a job the next day. Bloody hell, that would fuck me over.

But, needless to say, Rachel Zoe’s third chapter of her style book is a guide to the dreaded morning after. Her morning after tricks are split between the “go to work” type of morning after, and the “day off” type of morning after – which, I would apply to most people still in school. What I wear to school, I wear on days off, and weekends, and just about anywhere during daytime hours.

So, Rachel says, given that this is life to attend to after the party is finished, try to think chic instead of glitz when it comes to daytime glam. And, when it comes to your day off, Rachel says, “go effortlessly haute instead of lazily scruffy.”

I am sure it would be everyone’s perfect dream to work in a work where you can wear your day off clothes to the work place, but, unfortunately, this type of work wear is saved for those who have worked their ass off for years and really deserve to dress that casually. And, even then, it usually only applies in the areas of fashion, art, music, entertainment, and film.

So, we face the majority of people, who actually work in the corporate world. Or, dress in corporate attire. Rachel’s recommendations are pretty simple to follow, and, I would think would be pretty much basic rules of the office that most women should know before they even enter the workforce. First off, too much skin is a no go. Simple right? It’s a simple rule that if you have a covered up lower half, you can show more up top, and vice versa. If, by chance, you are worried about showing too much skin, layering is always a great idea. Whether it’s to overlap the waistline of trousers or cover up more cleave than necessary – or, hey, even just because it’s looks damn good – layering is always a chic idea, and a quick fix.

Second, Rachel suggests sticking to the basics for the office when it comes to attire. That means, go for trousers, pencil skirts, tailored jackets, button down shirts, detailed blouses, vests, and sweaters. Many of these pieces you can layer, and, the best is that, even if you just had one of eah of those above mentioned items, you could likely whip up eight or nine full outfits.

When it comes to suiting, Rachel suggests that suits, skirt or pant style, should be kept in neutral tones – that’s black, white, grey, brown , navy, taupe, or camel. You can add on colour afterward, with different tops, interesting belts, broaches and killer shoes (just remember to keep the sparkle out of the office – and anything higher than 3” for work – unless you work at a fashion magazine, or are on a film set – is a deal breaker).

A great “but” that sticks to suiting is that suiting does not have to be worn as a matching “set.” I am a big believer in things “going” more so than matching. You can wear black on the bottom, grey on top, vice versa, or navy and black, brown and white, whatever you want, really, because neutrals go with any colour, and go with each other even better than they go with colour.

There is one thing that you should take a definite note about in work attire, though. That’s your bag. A bag easily commands power and attention, but, it can just as easily distract from your outfit, or dictate that you do not take yourself, or your job, seriously. That means that you should avoid anything too fluffy or loud. No one wants to see some hot pink bejewelled anything in the office. And while Marc Jacobs came out with a phenomenal line of bags for this season, I suggest keeping them out of the office, unless you have enough power to carry it around without losing your position, or you work, again, in fashion.

The bag that you do bring to work, should be able to fit everything that you need for work, in it. That includes your laptop and PDA, and files you need for the day, as well as your phone, Blackberry, iPhone – whatever you have. It should also be able to carry everything that you would carry in a bag you would take out for the evening. This is the reason why the Birkin Bag is so well loved. The bag has so many different compartments, and you can get it in a big enough size to fit your laptop, as well as a load of other things. The inside zippers and compartments can also easily hide all of your daily bag necessities, like, lip balm, gum, hand lotion, Kleenex.. and all that stuff that becomes annoying when you have a big bag to dig through.

Another reminder Rachel wants to ensure everyone knows, is that sometimes jeans are OK for work. Obviously, if you work in a law office, I suspect denim is not okay, so it obviously depends where you work. But, if you work in a more creative field, like an advertising agency, or somewhere in publishing, or design, denim could be perfectly acceptable. Just remember to dress up whichever half of your body you’re dressing down. Slick dark denim on the bottom calls for a chic blouse and tailored jacket on top, while high waist wide-legged trousers demand a much more fitted v-neck T to wear on top.

On a personal note – I just want to add that proportions are so, so key. No one wants to be the office slut.

Says Rachel about dressing for the office, “as a rule: avoid anything too extreme: too much hair, too much glitz, and too much skin.”

“Casual clothes typically encourage casual manners.”

But, if you are like me, a student, you fall more into Rachel’s “day off” morning after category. I like this category – mostly because it works so well. It’s so much easier to pull off the effortlessly-semi dishevelled-chic look than it is the pulled together office look.

Always remember that it should be able comfort. And comfort does not, and never should, mean sloppy. Any sort of tracksuit should either saty in your own home, away from the sight of anyone, or in the gym. I do not care if they are your brand new lulus and how great your ass looks in them. They do not belong in the public eye. And, because they’re meant for an allowance in flexibility and all the stuff, unless you are doing lunges through the downtown core, I highly suggest not wearing them out.

With that out of the way, focus on fabrics that will allow for comfort, without giving up your oh-so-comfortable lulus. Best fabrics are jersey, cashmere, and cotton. All fabrics allow you to breathe (great for letting all that alcohol spill out of your pores), and are great for moving around (even better for sore legs that have danced all night and wobble when you walk down too many stairs).

Keys pieces should include leggings, knit sweaters, wrap dresses, oversized wraps and boyfriend denim. Include simple tanks and T’s, and you have a perfect casual look. Pair everything with boots or flats (instead of sneakers – those too stay in the gym), and tie your hair into an undone ponytail, or wrap with a headscarf, and you’re good to go. Necessary, of course, are your favourite sunnies. You’ll need sunglasses to get through at least the first two hours of the day you’re awake. Blood shot eyes never clear faster than that.

A key to making sure you don’t fall into the sloppy routine for the morning after, Rachel says, is to treat every day as an opportunity – you never know who you’ll meet, who you’ll run into, or where you will end up three or four hours from then. You should be prepared to look your best whenever you can.

Rachel has, of course, pulled together a list for what should be your “day off” essentials. I would take this list into very high consideration. I did. And now I don’t go without.

Day Off Essentials
- A great fitting pair of jeans (preferably in a dark wash)
- A roomy jersey or cashmere constructed top
- A wrap or shift dress in cotton, jersey, or another knit (that can thrown on as quickly and comfortably as a T-shirt)
- A tote, hobo, or some other roomy bag
- Nude or bare lip gloss
- Rosy cheek tint
- An all season wrap or cardigan (that fits in your tote in case you get “the chills”)
- A head scarf (in case hair needs to be pulled back or completely hidden)
- Sunglasses
- Glam-on-the-go footwear (flats, boots, or wedges)

(From top: Jennifer Aniston in a corporate casual look, Cameron Diaz in two looks - corporate, and how she looked the night before, Rachel's assistants - Taylor and Brad - in what could be a "day off" look but likely just what they wear to work, Cameron Diaz on a day off, and Lindsay Lohan rocking the ubercasual morning after gear, comeplete with sunnies)

Keep having fun. I know I am.

Much love,

Images c/o Google Images

zac posen knows best

2009-12-28T19:10:00.008-05:00

"Men in Black Tie"
By Zac Posen in Rachel Zoe's Style: A to Zoe

Why should a guy concern himself with how he dresses? For his own amusement, of course. I enjoy dressing up. Personally, I draw inspiration by linking the avant-garde with the chic conservative. There’s so much frivolity in men’s dress historically. So in these times of high casualness, it’s good for all men to dress up. It’s vital for straight men to catch the eye of a lady.

I don’t believe in the chic banal. Risk taking in dress is very important. That means mixing high luxury classics like Turnball & Asser with the more forward Dior Homme. Mixing black and navy. Or go with a Chinoiserie smoking jackets, like those found in vintage stores. Or an opera cape!

I take every opportunity to don a tuxedo. I have so many, some forty-five and counting. Let’s start with the lapels of a tuxedo. Satin lapels are only for fall through winter. Grosgrain or Faille is best for fall. For spring to summer, go with self-finished self lapels. Wide lapels are romantic, but on most guys they can look goofy. And the notch of the lapel should always be high, a visual device that can balance a lot of men’s poor posture. A single-button, shawl-collar jacket is always soft and elegant. Men about 5-foot-9 can get away with double-breasted jackets; men below that height are better sticking to a nondouble-breasted shorter jacket. If there’s more than a single button on the jackets, wear only one of them – the center one – buttoned. Never completely button up a tuxedo or any suit.

I’m a big believer in cummerbunds. It lends a bit more security while providing a beautiful elegance, an international sophistication, to a look. It should always be faille, not satin. Pleats up, never down. Only don a vest if you’re slim – it’s not a girdle; otherwise go with a cummerbund.

I like a real bow tie. If you can’t tie it, have it tied in advance and sew it in place so that it never comes undone. A great way to go is to wear a white faille bow tie with a shawl collar (though it you do it with a double-breasted look, you’ll end up looking like a waiter). A pink bow tie is a great option, too. When the dress code calls for black tie, it’s also possible to go with a necktie worn with a loose knot, like a half cravat, tucked into the shirt.

Dress shirts look best with a French cuff. After all, cuff links are a great talking point for women. On a budget? Enamel cuff links are beautiful. If you don’t have cufflinks and are in a bind, simply take the extra sleeve buttons form the jackets and sew them back to back. I love a pleated shirt, or one with a standing collar with the points. But never do too wide a collar. The skinnier the collar is, the longer your neck looks.

It’s very polite to have a handkerchief. Fold it into a four-point napkin. Here’s an opportunity as with the cuff links, to be more frivolous with pattern or colour, matching the bow tie and hankie. Satin is okay if it’s a black shirt with a black tux. But nothing beats a nice white linen napkin with a white shirt. This is also a great place for a hidden gesture like a monogram.

Insofar as the pants, I’m not a fan of partial-front pleats. They come off looking too penguin. A full pleat down the leg or a clan flat line is a great way to go. A cuff is also fantastic. The side stripe should be a clean satin or faille. A break in a pant leg is most important. A skinny leg is fine for jeans, but for evening, a wider leg, even a bootleg, is more attractive on a man. See your tailor.

The chicest thing in the world is a man is dress slippers—black patent or velvet—with a tuxedo. Something very Gaucho Club, very louche. Just don’t forget to score the bottoms or you’ll inevitably slip on some marble floor. Don’t overlook the hosiery either. Slip on a thin silk sock in papal pink, dusty cypress green, or black or white. Lastly, there are the extras that are in no way superfluous. Keep with what you will really need. Leather gloves are nice. A watch is important. The pins are fantastic, as are matching sets of shirt studs and cuff links. They’re all a great way to inject an accent of colour. I love turquoise on white, or matte Aztec gold.

Jewelry has to be very masculine and not too highly decorative, although I have worn a long strand of pearls to great effect: underneath the jacket and just peeking out a bit. Very Coco. A very small corsage, especially a carnation in two-tone or purple, is very chic. A single tuberose with a long stem or, in winter, a sprig of a yew tree or pine is also nice. Put them through the buttonhole instead of pinning them flat.

Don’t forget a thin pen, slipped into an inside pocket. A man should always carry a pen. I love to in case I want to sketch something. But it’s also imperative for jotting down an important phone number. Leave the PDA at home! Making it a part of your black-tie ensemble is terribly uncouth.

Seen above at red carpet events: Robert Pattinson, Johnny Depp, Ed Westwick, Chase Crawford, and Ashton Kutcher (with wife Demi Moore and Moore's daughter, Rumor Willis).

I cannot object, in any sense, to what Posen has to say in his article. I absolutely love mens fashion, and if you're going to go all out for an event, these are some seriously good guidelines to be following. But if you're ever attending an event that is maybe not quite as done up - one that you may look a little too out of place at in a red carpet look - keep in mind the same guidelines women have - you can tone down a look by doing a dark denim on the bottom, but dress up your top half. Or, on the opposite side, go for a fitted trouser and a much more casual fitted v-neck T. Outfit both looks with plenty of extras - hats and scarves are my personal favourites. And, of course, great footwear - preferably loafers, please.

Much love,

Images c/o Google Images

aside from the next four days, i'ma (try to) make every day a red carpet day.

2009-12-27T12:40:00.017-05:00

I have become a pathetic mess. That, I already know. Between stressing about my life and all the personal bullshit that has been going on for the past three months, and not actually doing anything about it - aside form drinking a disturbing amount of coffee, and smoking copious amounts of cigarettes - I have not touched this blog.

I feel quite silly, actually. How hard should it be to try to find a couple hours a day? Apparently, pretty difficult, especially since my body seems to require a full seven to eight hours of sleep in the winter, compared to my regular four to five in the spring and summer (hell, Spetember as well) months.

But, I figured the best way to try to get back into this is to start back with something I never exactly finished and, hopefully, it will give me enough modivation to continue.

I am only referecing my miniture journey through Rachel's Zoe style book - A to Zoe - which I last commented on sometime toward the end of April - right here. And that was only chapter one. The fact that I haven't even read the book past chapter four sort of distubs me, and I cannot seem to think of why it was tucked under several old magazines and a couple lit. books I have to read for school on my bedside table.

Anyway, I have decided to pick up right where I left off, which brings me straight to - ohmygod - chapter two. See? This is terrible.

It's a damn good thing I am holed up in the middle of nowhere for another four days. I am hoping that I will be able to get some stuff sorted out, more of this done, and drink all seven bottles of wine I accumulated over Christmas - all while listening to some great french music, possibly including some brass instruments, wearing leggings, socks I just finished crocheting, and oversized bulky knit sweaters. I really do not care how ugly that may seem to you. I do not plan on seeing anyone for these next four days except for my two adorable dogs, who never seem to give a damn about anything anyway.

So - shall we?

"there's no better time for metallics, pailettes, beads, and crystals" -Rachel Zoe

Rachel Zoe is infamous for making everything over the top. Even her daytime wear is beyond some of the things I wear out at night – and that may just be because I prefer denim and leather to nearly anything else, and she comes from LA where a golden tan is required, and, thus the glam look is expected.

Rachel's Go-to-Glam Elements
1. Classic Black Dress
2. Nude or black patent pumps
3. Great gold cuff or bracelet
4. Perfect red lipstick
5. Fishnets and black tights
6. An all-season wrap or shrug

But Rachel does excessive right. I remember watching some of her episodes from the Rachel Zoe Project – an everyday outfit for Rachel is easily a boho chic dress. This, on me, for exaple, would be dressed with flat sandals – likely strappy, though – and really played down jewellery – maybe some wood bangles and a single long strand necklace perhaps? I’d have undone hair and my nice new big sunnies.

I, would think this is acceptable, because I would wear something like this to the beach. Or if someone had a yacht, I would, perhaps, wear it on a yacht. But really, I am not much of a dress person, let alone a summer dress person, so this is probably the best I would pull out. And that would be taking a boho chic dress to another level for me.

Rachel, however, makes it work. This everyday boho chic dress could be a red carpet maker for Rachel. I am nearly positive Rachel would opt for a strappy wedge, rather than a flat sandal, and her ubergolden tanned body would be decked out with gold bangles, flat gold hoop earrings, a few large rings, and, depending on the neckline of the dress, possible a pretty great neck piece as well. All pulled together with her signature sunglasses and she is good to go.

Immediately putting in glam items – like anything gold – makes an outfit one step up. Putting on a wedge – even an espadrille – can take an outfit a notch higher than a flat sandal.

And, so, it seems only natural that Rachel would include in her style book a chapter on dressing up. She actually called it, “Life’s a Red Carpet” – and it makes one hundred per cent sense in Rachel’s case. Just by reading this chapter, I automatically felt that I should do the same thing with my life. I mean, living in Canada calls for a mini revamp to some of the suggestion Rachel makes (we don’t all have sunny LA weather 12 months a year) – but it makes sense to me to want to dress “up” every day.

To me, it makes sense to dress as good as you feel. And, sometimes, dressing better than how you feel, makes you feel that much better. So, really… there is no excuse.

The key to always having a wonderful red carpet moment, Rachel says, is to channel your red carpet moments carefully. Does that mean you save your best moments for New Years parties? Birthdays or anniversaries? All of the above? Make each red carpet the best you can.

Rachel stresses how important it is to always be prepared for a red carpet moment. This means keeping a careful track on what is in your wardrobe – that includes dresses, shoes, clutches and handbags, and just about every piece of jewellery you own. What’s important on top of that, is to keep a mental note of what you have in your wardrobe that is appropriate for certain seasons and different events – what you wear to your parents big anniversary bash may be quite different then what you choose to wear at a friend’s 25th birthday bash at a club, complete with limo and bottle service.

Rachel says it’s best to make a list of everything you need for an event. After you make a list, you can go through and check off what you already have, that way you have enough time to go through the things that may be necessary for you to either borrow from a friends or pick up yourself. Having more time to do these things may also give you the opportunity to save some cash along the way instead of freaking out 24 hours before an event and mindlessly splurging on an entirely new outfit.

Another tip Rachel has for red carpet dressing is to go vintage. Well, Rachel advises to go vintage whenever you can, but it makes even greater sense when you’re doing a red carpet look. If you can get a dress for a quarter of the price, why wouldn’t you? And if you’re looking for really great statement jewellery to vamp up a black dress, vintage is perfect – it’s generally a little bit more over the top and a little bit bigger than what you may be finding in stores now. Plus, you’re cutting more than half the cost of buying something brand new.

Going Vintage:
1. Ask yourself when you look at a vintage piece, does this look modern? That is the great irony: if something looks vintage, it might look costumey. But even an Edwardian piece can have a modern feel and work without looking like it’s Halloween
2. Condition is paramount. Look for armpit stains, moth holes, bead loss, and shattered hems. Certain blemishes can’t be salvaged. There’s only so much surgery you can do on a garment
3. Beware of substandard fabrics. Disposable clothing from forty years ago is likely still disposable clothing today. Stick with quality fabrics
4. Unless you’re a hardcore collector, select vintage that you can wear, not archive. Buy clothes that have a little mystery, a little history
5. Just because it’s got a label doesn’t mean it’s good. A vintage piece has to have good design. It has to be wearable. For Lindsay Lohan’s appearance at the opening of the Cartier flagship store on Rodeo Drive, Rachel chose a white Marilyn Monroelike halter dress by a relatively unknown American designer. The photographs ran like crazy
6. Always go with your taste or that of someone you trust. People come to Decades because they trust out taste. They trust that we known good design and what’s wearable
7. Forget the trends, even in vintage. Your body really dictates what you can wear. Certain bodies look great in a 1950s dress, others in a 1970s sheath
8. Vintage accessories can transform an outfit. You can wear the same little black dress over and over by changing your clutch
9. With vintage jewelry, it’s not about demure and safe. It’s about statement. So, too, it doesn’t have to be a huge investment or real
10. Make it modern through the mix. Rachel does this very well, say, taking a 1950s dress and pairing it with some sexier, brightly coloured Jimmy Choo heels and plenty of bling

I love vintage – second hand, thrift, consignment, whatever the hell you call it – shopping. I think you should try to make a vintage trip every few weeks. Even if you are not looking for something in particular, you may find something that you absolutely love that could be good for another occasion down the road.

Another quick tip from Rachel – remember that the basics always pull a look together! It’s great if you have the perfect dress, sexy ass heels and glam jewels all over your bod, but if everything else is mindlessly pulled together – you are going to look like crap. Or, like you were on your way to a red carpet moment, all dolled up, but then got hit by a bus and this is what you looked like afterward.

Check out Rachel’s “Stylist’s Toolbox”; this is a quick kit that every woman should have put together and ready by her side in case you’re in need of a quick adjustment while getting ready:

Inside the Stylist’s Toolbox:
- Toupee tape. This or a similar double-sided tape will keep in place a plunging neckline or errant strap. Hollywood Fashion Tape is a godsend.
- Eyelash glue. Use in cases when toupee tape is too wide, such as for spaghetti straps
- Safety pins. In assorted sizes, but definitely have the tiny ones on hand
- Broach. Jeweled or metal, keep one handy in the case of an instant nip and tuck
- A pair of small scissors
- A needle and thread. At a bare minimum, keep thread in black, white, gray, and champagne on hand. Or consider the dominant colours in your wardrobe and stock up on those colours
Stain-removal sponges. There are several on the market now, including Miss Oops Rescue Sponges, which are especially amazing for erasing makeup and deodorant skidmarks from clothes
- Tampons. Seriously. Stress can impact our bodies in all sorts of unexpected ways, and breakout periods have happened to too many of my clients. Shudder to think if you’re not ready while wearing a white dress
- Shoe insoles. Particularly helpful are nonslip triangle for high heels
- Clear bandages. Blisters are not pretty. You don’t want to be uncomfortable – or bleeding

While red carpet moments are great, there are always the cocktail events, dinner parties, museum openings and film festivals. There are shows to attend, dates to go on, and everything other little event that could dictate a minature red carpet look. The key in making the most of these moments is to really play with your outfit. Proportion is key. If you’re going to go with a slick trouser or a really sleek dark denim on the bottom, make sure you dress your upper body accordingly. That means, given that your bottom half is completely covered up, you’re okay to show a lot of keck, or back, or arm. Try to make it only one though. No one likes a sleeze fest showing up at their event. No one else likes to look at someone like that, and the host never likes to be associated with someone like that.

Play with your proportions, try different hem lengths, necklines and fabrics. Make sure the structure is good for your body – I am not Kate Moss, and, while I love her easy style, I will never pull off 90% of the things she does. So, there is no point in trying and then ending up having a horrible evening because I cannot fit into cigarette skinny pants the way she can.

The entire point of a red carpet moment is to be able to enjoy your night – that means having everything ready well before it’s time to get dressed. The more prepared you are, the easier it will be to slip everything on, and the more fun you’ll have in the end!

Some of Rachel's clients all decked out at the red carpet Anne Hathaway at the premiere of Rachel Getting Married, at the 2009 Oscars, and Jennifer Garner at the 2008 Academy Awards (respectively).

And just a few of Rachel’s shopping tips for when you do go shopping for those great pieces:

“the aim is to love everything you own”
“buy something because you love it, you need it, and you will use it”

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Google Images

who's gonna run this town tonight.

2009-09-11T12:15:00.005-04:00

I managed to muster a few images off of msn.com. The site has been catching quite a few celebs lately in hit and miss outfits. Aside from their clothing, however, I have a few additional remarks to make, because, hey, sometimes it isn't the fault of celebrities they dress so terribly. Sometimes, it's just a really awful stylist.

Another reason why I should keep up the way I do.

Ashlee Simpson - this girl is really making me want my strawberry blonde-on-the-verge-of-being-red locks back. Not only do I love this look, how hard is it to find true redheads these days? Ashlee isn't one of them, but I sure am, and this, I find, is a true call-back.

Taylor Momsen - I hate that I hate Momsen because of tiny she is. Then I remember that I am about four years older than she is, have grown into a young woman's body, and do not participate in any sort of exercise to gain even the slight possibility to train my body to be like hers. Aside from that - I am so displeased with Taylor's hair. With a porcelain skin tone, and such a slender body, her bleached blonde long hair really isn't doing anything for her these days.

Audrina Patridge - I love this girl. I really do. Just not as a blonde.

That's all.

Much love,

Images c/o MSN.com

here it goes again.

2009-09-11T12:11:00.004-04:00

The chaotic spree of fashion weeks around the globe have begun. first up, as per usual, the uberfine New York. while I try to keep up with this frenzy, as well as keep up on my school work and three, yes, count them, three, part time jobs, expect an update at the end of the week for some of Manhattan's hottest designs and what to look for for Spring 2010.

Not to mention a few snapshots of some of America's finest fashion folk.

Much love,
s.

when the leaves begin to change.

2009-08-19T12:27:00.001-04:00

I can feel the air changing. The night’s are coming faster; the days are getting shorter.

This can only mean one thing.

And we all know what the is.

Much love (and will update soon – believe me, I have too much bottled inside… it would be unfair not to share all of this),
s.

you make the good girls go bad

2009-08-15T22:06:00.001-04:00

new, improved: signage. by sarahbeukema

much love,
s.

if i had a million fucking dollars.

2009-07-24T11:35:00.000-04:00

if i had a million fucking dollars. by sarahbeukema

Much love,
s.

blog lovin'. hell'a fun.

2009-07-08T18:34:00.001-04:00

Follow my blog with bloglovin

Much love,

i wish

2009-07-02T22:32:00.001-04:00

you all felt the same way i am right now.

vodka water. doubles.

maybe it's more than a swagger

2009-05-31T15:31:00.019-04:00

As life has it, I end up taking too long to flip through a magazine and before I know it, the next issue is out and I completely forget to post about anything I see as a trend to watch for, a designer on the run, or this or that, or whatever I think you should probably just know. You get what I mean.

Lucky for me, borrowing my friend’s copy of Esquire’s Big Black Book, through which the top menswear trends are said to be displayed, is in my possession until I see him again. Another plus, is that the next edition doesn’t come out until the next runway season. Wonderful.

So, really, I suppose I should be spending my time with this huge list I have begun to make (I decided compiling a list may be a little bit more tidy than my obsession with post-it notes on my desk and walls surrounding it), about things I really want to cover. I have started to eliminate some things because they are time sensitive (like my comments on the both beautiful and disastrous choices for the Costume Institute Gala last week—which has now been covered by every other possible source. Who wants to read things eight times?). Other things I haven’t covered yet because I know they’re not time sensitive, maybe until the next runway season, at least.

Anyway, I decided to pull out the Esquire post because I know that, given my luck, I am going to run into Adam sooner than later, and am going to have to give it back. Plus, my love for menswear is far too deep to keep this on hold any longer.

So then, shall we?

First off, there is a section I really have some beef with. It’s called “How to Speak Italian on the Weekend”.

Seriously?

Okay, so many Italians dress well, but, so do the damn Parisians, Londoners, the kids from Tokyo, Amsterdam, and even my Canadian love, Montreal. Naming an article that way is just ridiculous. I actually know a few Italians who dress wretchedly. Mind you they do not currently live in Italy, but they sure as hell were born there. And that counts for something.

Another thing: Who is to say these “rules” or “guidelines” that the editors have set are specific to Italian style? I have called so many of these style options to my brother for the longest time. It’s his own fault he does not listen, but, in all honestly, these are not tricks of the Italian trade – they are mostly just common sense when you’re talking fashion and personal opinion when you’re speaking style.

I know some pretty stylish people. Does it mean they are the most “in fashion” people? No, but they still look pretty damn good, all the time; they walk around with confidence and a look that shouts that they don’t give a fuck what you think because they would never dress for you one single goddamned day of their life. They only dress for their selves.

If I seem like I’m pissed off about this article – it’s because I am. Great styling, I mean, many of the complete looks look very well put together – there are even a few I would recommend to other people – but the idea that there are rules adhered to these things… Well, you’ll just see.

Now to the nitty gritty (do people still say that? I'm not too sure).

Anyway, this editorial on how to imitate weekend Italian Style boasts a twelve page spread, with undoubtedly phenomenal photos. But that's what you get when you hire Max Vadukul, top fashion photographer, as well as taking into consideration such distinct styling. But seeing as I hold some pretty strong opinions about this section, I am going to very carefully tear it apart, page by page, with each style instruction taken into account. I have a firm belief that you should not try to emulate the fashions of a specific region. After all, these fashion statement will be making their way straight to North American in two to three years time, if they haven't been taken into account already. The importance of style has been lost in this industry I love so much. You can, after all, have an extreme sense of style, without being the least bit in fashion. And that is why I love personal style that much more.

As a side note, I was asked by an individual if I found the fashion-journalism industry to be booming in novelty in any sort of way because there are so many individuals – girls especially – that have taken to the likes of fashion. I disagreed with him in such a shrewd manner at his latter comment that I'm sure that's why he hasn't come to join me on my outdoor coffee breaks these past couple of weeks. There are too many people these days who explain this love for fashion. When, realistically, they just love to shop. Ask anyone about designers specific to decades as some basic form of knowledge and let them tell you just how much they do not know. So, in response to his initial question, no, I do not believe there is any sort of boom in the novelty of fashion journalism. There will always be a few specific individuals (I cannot even say that I'll ever be one of them, I'll just have to begin working a hell of a lot harder if I ever hope to be) that pursue the drive they have, put in far too many hours of work, and piss off just enough people to make it in the industry while still being looked up to because they are just so damn good at what they do. And those, are the people who really love fashion.

Just had to get that off my chest. Now, back to “Italian Fashion”.

Beginning with the first page, we see American artist, Brad Fisher looking pretty fine. I have got to admit, this outfit is styled pretty damn well. But I did say that initially; some of these outfits look really great. It's more about reading the explanations behind the styling that I had some internal debate about. Titled “The Shock of Color”, the editors go into how bright colors are a trademark of Italian style. I do not doubt this; in fact, I pretty well agree with it one hundred percent. I even agree when they say that bright colors can be mixed and matched as long as you tie them together with a basic neutral. But I thought these were key styling tips in any order of fashion. What really gets me on this page is the explanation that confidence is key when pulling off something like this. Well bloody hell. Of course it's key! It's key in any outfit you're trying to pull off that could be considered a little more formal than normal, or breaks the barriers of typical fashion for a specific atmosphere. It's like when I wear heels on campus. You get stared at because other university students aren't used to seeing campus kids in anything but casual basics. But all you do is keep it together. I mean, you wouldn't have put on whatever you were wearing for an audience to see if you couldn't bear to walk around in it for a good ten to twelve hours, would you?

Moving on.

Page two describes the act of balancing jeans and a blazer. As far as I know, nearly every guy who goes to a club that borders the uptown and midtown scene knows how to pull this off. As long as you're balancing your color tones, you're good to go. And by that, I mean, you likely wouldn't pair bleach wash jeans with a white blazer or white denim with a canary blue jacket. In most cases, guys know how to balance this look by keeping denim dark and being able to play with whatever color and fabric they want on top. Like the first page, with the note about confidence, this page goes on to say that almost anything goes as long as it is fitted properly and you've got a great jacket. Puh-lease. I could have told you that when I was seven.

Onto the “Pop of Red Driving Shoe”. I have to admit, this looks great. But so would a pop of kelly green driving shoe. Or sunflower yellow. Or ultraviolet purple. The entire getup Japanese-American model/poet Seijo Imazaki is showing off would look great with any color driving shoe because all of the other pieces are general neutrals. Esquire editors note that it's the pop of red that completes this whole look. I beg to differ. Go ahead, try the green.

I could tell you the importance of watches any day. And I don't mean as an actual way of telling time. I own three watched: one is a bit glam, the other a retro throwback, and the third an over-sized gold men’s watch. But I don't ever look at them. They're strictly about bringing a look together with a little look-at-me arm candy. I totally get the idea of having a “driving watch,” “weekend watch,” “office watch,” and so on. It's like any assortment of watches – each has its purpose. But it certainly isn't dictating Italian style.

The fifth page I can almost entirely agree with, however. Most Italian runway shows you can look at and notice the extreme use of layering. Italian designers do it very, very well. And the use of knitwear in layering is usually one hundred per cent key. Check this: a white button down oxford with faint grey wide-set pinstripes, a charcoal grey dress vest, buttoned, a navy thin knit cashmere cardigan, topped with a deep emerald green velvet sport-cut blazer. See? Canadians can do it too.

And then we go back to basics. I feel like explaining to a guy that the necessity of having a great fitting pair of trousers, a great cut jacket and the perfect fitting shirt is the exact same as telling a woman that the basic staples to a wardrobe consists of a pair of straight leg neutral trousers, great fitting denim, a slim cut white oxford button down, a classic pair of pumps, a perfectly tailored neutral trench, and a great LBD. They're only the basics. And, hopefully, once you get to a certain age, you'll own them anyways. Common sense guys, com'mon.

Oh and now the seventh page is my absolute favorite. “The Signature Quirk.” I understand the interest in things looking a little off. It's almost the same as when you notice that something is so wrong, it becomes right. But when I look at the styling on this page, I don't really understand the “quirk.” Sure, you've got yellow pants, a purple tie and a navy jacket, but that's just playing with the color wheel. Start with one piece, say, the jacket, choose the tie color by going to the colour next to the blue on the color wheel, which in this case is purple (but could be green), and then to get the trousers, you go with the complementary color opposite the tie color on the color wheel, and you get the yellow pants. Had you chosen a green tie, opting for red pants would have been just fine as well. And no, you wouldn't look Christmas-y with the red and green combination because it's not as if you're going to choose Christmas-red and Christmas-green. All you've got to do is play with the tones, like choosing a deep merlot red with a forest green, and then you've got another great look. See? Simple.

Want another example? Okay, so grab a red jacket, maybe in a mid-burgundy tone, then opt for an orange tie, and given that you're playing with tones, go for a Terracotta orange, and then deep navy trousers. I am too good at this.

Okay, I sort of laughed when I saw the next page and that it was devoted to the “Blue on Blue on Blue” challenge. It's really not all that difficult. As long as you're choosing different shades of blue, in different fabrics and/or patterns and tie in a pop of another color, you're good to go. This, of course, also applies to mixing denim... which is something I would suggest to just simply stay away from, even though it is a huge trend right now for female twenty-somethings. To me, it's just a bad idea altogether.

Um, the “carelessly placed sweater”. I get it. I understand the whole “effortlessly cool” thing and everything. But it absolutely does not apply in this way: there is no way you would get away with wearing a two piece suit, thinking it's just totally okay to throw your cardigan over you shoulders and around your neck. You'd look like a mess.

Ah yes, the talk surrounding buttons. Buttons have more or less become an accessory rather than something we actually keep in mind because of its purpose. Things just see to look a little more chic or a little more upscale when you've got white, gold, or something similar to the beauty of a tiger's eye jewel. I believe that it sort of stems from the use of cuff links. I love cuff links but there is a time and place for everything, and when you can't opt for something on your cuffs, why not something on your sleeve?

And then we have the flash of an ankle. I have been seeing this coming for well over a year now, slowly making its way onto North American runways, but it has always been a trademark of European fashion. I have a lot of Dutch cousins, and they are all about showing off a little ankle. It always seems to look best, though, when you're wearing thin driving loafers without socks, or when you don't match your socks with your pants and/or shoes. Say you're wearing a pair of neutral camel trousers with chocolate brown leather loafers. Now, throw in some argyle print socks in shades of green and a wee bit of brown, just to tie it together. Absolutely fabulous. Of course, this is a very season based trend, and I can't see it lasting in North America all that long. Especially when summers are too warm and winters are far too cold, and spring and autumn has such frustrating weather trends, it could be hard to get a firm grip on this one.

And then, to finish everything off, the Italians have got the “patch pocket.” In all honesty, I hate this. Sure, it's always nice to have a more detail than not enough, but isn't that what a great pocket square or a really out-there tie is for? Or really, really impeccable shoes? I just cannot appreciate the exterior stitching on this pocket patch, and I do not really want to, either.

So, that's the twelve page spread of Italian Weekend Wear. Italians have the reputation of having great style, but every single person can have great style. It's all about bringing together the things you love, making sure they fit very, very well, carrying everything with confidence and just more or less making sure you don't look like a homeless shlub. The editors at Esquire have put together some good pointers, but it's not all one hundred per cent relevant to Italian fashion – I find everything mentioned to be pretty universal when you're talking fashion.

I mean, you go ahead and do whatever you want. I'll be handing out compliments left, right and center like I usually do when I like something, and I'll continue handing out critiques silently in my head as well.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Esquire Magazine: Spring 2009 The Big Black Book

l'art de vivre

2009-05-23T10:17:00.007-04:00

I feel as if I always expect just a little bit more out of someone like Carmen Kass. Seeing as she's walked for nearly every major designer, signed with dozens of ad campaigns and even walked for Victoria's Secret (I consider this extremely odd - I usually classify models as fashion models - the one's who walk high fashion - and mens models - the ones with the curves and great bodies - which would include Victoria's Secret models), I was slightly let down with her photo shoot in the May issue if Vogue Nippon.

I find that Carmen lucked out with the shoot finishing in black and white, VOGUE having really incredible creative directors, and the art department really adding some deep contrast to these photos.

Of course the clothes look great and the setting is incredible - but I was too bored after the fifth photo, so the last few sort of slid past me.

Carmen has got to pump it back up.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o VOGUE Nippon

woo!

2009-05-16T18:54:00.002-04:00

So my recent Sunny Fong post? That article from DOSE? Well, I was sure I recognized the name - turns out I was right.

Kat Angus was a student at the same university that I am currently attending and she worked at the campus paper in her fourth year, which was my first year - the year I volunteer before becoming the assistant editor for the same section she worked for!

Small world. Go Hamilton!

Much love,
s.

canada in the forefront

2009-05-16T18:21:00.007-04:00

I have to make this noticed, not only because Daria Werbowy is one of my favourite models, as well as being Canadian, but I am not entirely sure this happens all that often.

Daria graced the covers of both VOGUE Paris and VOGUE UK for both of the aforementioned May issues. This is one busy girl.

Just in personal opinion, VOGUE Paris did a far better job of featuring Daria on the cover. Her dark smoky makeup, decked out in swimwear and demin, over shone the UK's cover that was far too sweet and reminded me too much of a woman's magazine as opposed to a strictly fashion based magazine. At first I thought it was a little more tailored to the ELLE look, but even then, the covers of ELLE are ore structured and consistent. VOGUE UK took the idea of soft romanticism for summer too far. This says Marie Claire to me, which I don' exactly appreciate.

Opinions aside, Daria shines either way... my main critique is specifically based on styling and VOGUE UK deserves a little slap on the wrist.

The following are the editorial shots of Daria for the best way to wear denim this summer. It's incredibly stunning and I love how everything can be captured so strongly when both Daria and her male model costar are so fast in action.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Fashion Indie

the classic

2009-05-16T18:12:00.004-04:00

You can never escape something as beautiful as the Chanel No. 5 perfume. The new video advertisement, by Jean-Pierre Jeunet features Audrey Tautou and Travis Davenport in nothing short of wonderful.

Enjoy.

Much love,
s.

Video c/o YouTube

what are you talking about, it's always been sunny

2009-05-16T12:53:00.010-04:00

Today I was thinking a little bit more about Project Runway Canada's Season 2 winner, Sunny Fong. I really do believe that Sunny's journey through the fashion industry has been an interesting one. Even though I was rooting for Jason - in part because I liked his design sense, and also because he is originally from Hamilton, which is where I live and go to school - I could never deny Sunny's incredible sense of what works in fashion. He had the ability to work out nearly every challenge (except for the first - his Fashion Is A Battle Field piece suffered), and put more than enough effort and expertise into his crft. t was clear that he wanted this ore than every other person there, standing alone on the fact that he decided to stay out of the drama, the bitching and complaining.

This man, has a lot to offer. Personally, I cannot wait until I have enough money to afford one of the jackets he showed in his final collection, donning full fur sleeves (and by his quote - they're faux too... perfect, for me).

What I never knew about Sunny, until delving a little deeper into his personal part (you can find anything on the internet), was that even though he originally learned how to sew in high school (by his mother - who had immaculate skills that were shown off in Sunny's final collection at Toronto Fashion Week), he chose to pursue film after high school. After four years, his artistic qualities still in check, he bailed out on following the rest of his fellow graduates into the film world, and delved into the high paced world of fashion.

And while it isn't easy to make it in this world, Sunny launched VAWK in 2004 and showed his collections at Toronto Fashion Week. But we all know it takes money to make the world go 'round, and, essentially, there wasn't enough capitol behind Sunny's brand to keep his brand going. Sunny even noted several times throughout the season that this was his last try to make it in fashion - his last collection, inspired by Alexander the Great was, as Sunny noted, "his last battle."

As we all know, Sunny clearly defeated the competition. All of the judges loved the collection - I was practically scream at home - I am sure I wanted nine out of the twelve looks. Everything was impeccable.

The following are a few excerpts I felt the necessity to include. You really don't get to know Sunny to the full extent until you read these. We all watched him on the show, but when you hear him speak... or rather when his words are written down... in a longer extent, there's this sort of vibe you get that even though Sunny had some sort of itch that he would win PRC Season 2, the entire thing is so surreal. Without this winning, his continuation in the fashion world would have been limited to select custom designs, and now, well, now he's going to go global.

First is Sunny's final blog posting to the Projust Runway Canada site through Global television, and the second is an interview that Sunny did with DOSE shortly following his win. And after all of that, there are a few photos courtesy of ChickAdvisor and Miss Sly that are some of (in my opinion) Sunny's best pieces from his winning collection for Autumn/Winter 09. And for even more Sunny, feel free to click the link at the end of the page that'll guide you to Sunny's final battle in fashion.

Sunny Fong's Blog: Episode 12 Project Runway Canada: Season 2

"Yesterday we found out about another challenge/thing to do. We had to prepare a presentation about my fashion line to the folks at Winners. This is to give us a taste of the mentorship program that they are providing. Like what we have to do isn’t enough……. Super stupid….what did I get myself into. I didn’t get started on it till after we came back from the work room. It was past twelve AM and all of us finally started on our presentations. Another arts and crafts / business thing to do. I didn’t want to do anything lame so we all spent the entire night and morning finishing our presentation boards. I only got 1.5 hours sleep, Jason 2 hours and Jessica none.

We did our presentation and I really tried to not fall asleep and present myself as serious, they gave us all some great feedback and I also got some great feedback that I’m considering….we’ll see…

As the day went on, jeff my helpful helper really went above and beyond in helping me finish my collection….sweet heart…. Oh jeff. Cheryl came by the work room and we did our fitting and she seemed like she liked my dress. I really hope she’s not just being nice…?! Later in the day, with jeff’s help I managed to finish quite early… can’t wait till tomorrow.

So it’s runway day and I’m super excited!!!! And I really can’t wait to get the show started. We went to Nathan Phillips Square to see the runway, and I totally miss seeing my stuff on the runway and being there made me a little bit sad…but happy at the same time!!!! Well we walked on to the runway and there was Evan Biddell, winner of last years PRC and he told us that he was going to be our guest judge… really cool since he knows what it’s like to do what we do and gone through. It was definitely a stressfull day. We had to get the models hair and make-up done and then dressed and then the show. But no…. not so easy.. the models took forever to get done… Jason and Jessica had their models dressed and ready and I only had 3 models done and it was literally 20 minutes before the show. I was ready to get stressed but I suppressed it. It was show time and my girls looked hot!!!! They couldn’t look sexier!!! and my s**t looked awesome in them!!! Super duper cool! I just couldn’t wait to see them on the runway. Nope I didn’t see them on the runway… really what I saw was tori walk on to the runway with the first garment and the last garment. When tori got off the runway, I had to quickly get her into her finale piece and really I missed the show, but I knew it was going well, cause I could hear the audience applause for every piece and that was wicked!!! I think that was a rare thing. In the end the model came back and said they loved it and felt good about it. NICE!

That wasn’t it, then we had to get judged and I felt really good. But I didn’t hold my breath…. Though I felt great anything can happen. I was nervous on runway!!! My heart was beating a mile a minute and I didn’t know what to think.. I played the scenario in my head but I had my line for losing which was “oh that sucks!....congrats…!” but I really didn’t prepare for a winning reaction…. The judges really reacted positively to the collection, I told them that it was based on Alexander the Great and I really want to do something that was totally me!!! And they really saw that. They love it and Iman said she already saw some pieces she wanted which was all of it… Nice! A part of me felt bad winning…. Because Jessica’s a wonderful person… my home-y!!! and a great talent… that girl is going somewhere!! She’s young and thirty for fashion and she’ll drink that big jug of fashion really soon…actually right now with a straw. Love that bi-o-tch!. Jason…..has a golden heart and the drive to sell his creations… he can sell anything with all his passion behind it.

The piece de résistance, was my mother and Kenny coming onto the show and the runway. They’ve been my support and every way. Mom and her traditional way of supporting me by keeping me modest and making me achieve more….plus her amazing beading she does for me. And Kenny.. my baby… there since the beginning and now… helping me get my collection on the runway… my rock. Really the best thing was to actually have Kenny and my mom interact… makes me really happy…tear. That’s another story… But I love them both!!! Sniff sniff. Now, what do I do…? get something to eat and some sleep….. and maybe tomorrow VAWK will wake up….. to a new name...

*sun"

Interview: Sunny Fong Wins Project Runway Canada
By Kat Angus - April 16, 2009

Tuesday night, Toronto designer Sunny Fong officially became the second winner of Project Runway Canada. To any regular viewer, Fong's victory hardly came as a surprise; over the season, he won the most challenges and was consistently praised for his creative, well-made designs. Still, his final collection, an ambitious interpretation of Alexander the Great, shocked even the judges with its innovation, using fur, intricate beading and even a leather-sculpted mask. The 32-year-old described how he felt during his Fashion Week show, which part of Project Runway Canada he hated the most and what he plans to do next.

Congratulations on your victory!
Thank you!

What was going through your mind as your collection was going down the runway?
"Get Tori dressed!" When my model came backstage, I was like, "Oh, I have to get her dressed!" But other than that, it was really cool. I was trying to get her dressed in her garment, and the only way I knew my collection was doing well was that I could hear the applause. I was like, "Yes! It's not going down the crapper!" It was super cool.

It was fairly obvious to anyone who watched the show that you were going to win. Was it as obvious to you?
Um, I had a hunch. I mean, I had a feeling about it. I loved my collection and I spent so much time on it and it was my favourite collection yet, for me. I had a hunch but I really didn't think about it too much because having been through all the challenges, there's always a surprise. I was more thinking, "Please, no more surprises. Please, no!"

Your collection was inspired by Alexander the Great. What made you focus on him?
It was sort of a random thing. I went to the video store and I bought Alexander because it was on sale, and I was watching it and I was joking around, saying, "Maybe I'll do Alexander the Great for my collection!" And then I realized it sort of worked, because the first challenge was "fashion is a battlefield." So I figured it was a good way to end it off. It would be my final battle, because I'd lost the first one.

In the finale, you said that if you didn't win, you would quit fashion forever. But for someone who has so much talent and clearly loves fashion, could you really have left it behind?
I would have probably dabbled in it, but at the time, I was really battling with deciding whether or not to continue with Vawk [Fong's fashion line] or not. I'd put it on hold for, like, three years and I knew it was going to be another year that I would put it on hold, so I was trying to figure out if I was going to continue at all. Project Runway came around and I was like, "This show will help me decide if I want to continue the line or not." So it was my deciding factor. I guess I have to do it now!

What would you have done if you had lost?
I don't know. At the time, that was how I was feeling, like, "Ugh!" When I put my line on hold, I was depressed for a while, too. I think if I didn't win, I would probably still give it another go, just because after every episode, seeing the show and getting the kind of feedback I've been getting, you have to continue. It was sort of a good sign, but I was also like, "I need money." [Laughs]

Not including your Fashion Week collection, which was your favourite challenge from Project Runway Canada?
As much as I hated it, I also loved the camping challenge, where we had to do the avant-garde outfit from the camping supplies. I hated the challenge because of the circumstances, but I loved it because I really had to pull everything that I had into this garment and try to win it. It was kind of a win/lose situation.

You seemed very annoyed that Jason and Genevieve were given the chance to return to the competition during the camping challenge.
Yeah, I was. It was more because of the whole unfair feeling. If I didn't win the challenge, I would have been kicked out and that was it for me. And seeing people who didn't deserve to go before - they didn't get to come back, you know? It was an unfair feeling, and it really bothers me a lot. I've seen that happen to me when I started my line, when, as much as I pushed it, I wasn't getting anything and I felt like it sucked. The "this sucks" feeling came back and I was kind of angry.

Excluding the fairness aspects of that, which was your least favourite challenge from the season?
I think, maybe the divorcee challenge. We had to recycle old clothes and I was like, "I'm done with recycling old clothes! We did that for the previous challenge!" I wanted to use real fabrics and not have to deconstruct something or take it apart to make something new. It takes so much time just to take it apart. That was the most stressful. With the divorcee, you had to fit her real body and you were limited to the fabric you were given from her wedding dress, and taking that apart took a lot of time and it was like, "Gah!"

Out of all the other eliminated designers, who do you think should have made it further in the competition?
Baylor. His track record - he's done really consistently well. For his first time being in the bottom two, to be eliminated? He's really talented and really skilled at what he does. To be eliminated for one moment where he, I guess, "didn't measure up," it's a little unsettling. I wanted to see more from him because I felt that he was one of my biggest rivals. It would have been cool to battle it out with him.

Conversely, is there anyone who you think should have been eliminated earlier?
[Long pause] Um...

It's an awkward question.
It is! Um... I think that each time we had a challenge, I felt certain people didn't deserve to stay. Baylor's situation, I really didn't think he should have gone. I think maybe Kim, at the time, for that challenge, should have gone. She really didn't make anything that was design-worthy in terms of making her divorcee look good. At least Baylor produced something that was thoughtful and exactly what the client wanted, and Kim, at the time, she made a potato sack. We all agreed that it looked like that - even Kim thought so! Kim knows that, too. But she fought for her life on the runway, so... you know. It's a competition.

Now that you've won Project Runway Canada, what's the next step?
Definitely, I really want to do my line. Right now, I think I really want to go on vacation. For instance, with Alexander the Great, the inspiration was Greece and India, so I was like, "Let's go on vacation!" But I couldn't afford it and had to use Google to get my inspiration. I'm hoping that this time, I can actually go somewhere and be inspired and get the authentic feeling.

From Sunny's auumn/winter 09 collection for the ELLE Show and PRC2 (respectively)

http://runway.globaltv.com/video/

It's good to be back.

Much love,
s.

run

2009-05-11T23:55:00.003-04:00

Halston Fall 09

excessories

2009-04-27T11:01:00.009-04:00

My journey through Rachel Zoe’s book, a sort of guide to finding your own sense of style, is continuing. I am finding time slowly but surely to get back into this game, so bear with me here.

If anyone knows how to accessorize, it’s Rachel Zoe. Her first chapter is all about that, which, I find sort of odd. I mean, isn’t accessorizing suppose to be the last thing you do to tie together a complete look? Even Rachel says that on her show The Rachel Zoe Project. She always pulls the best dresses for clients and then goes ahead to choose the best shows, bags, and so one and so forth, that will create the picture perfect look that’s going to drive page six up the wall and photographers crazy.

Nonetheless, Rachel hits the perfect make with her first sentence, “Accessories are everything. To me, they’re more important than clothes.” Which, I suppose is why the chapter comes before anything else in Rachel’s style guide. Rachel’s more is more theory is likely an expression relaying most to her obsession with accessories. Anytime you see photos of her at fashion week, on her show or just tabloid photos, bracelets are stacked up her arms, bags are bigger than the top half of her body and the frames are her face keep getting bigger and bigger. Don’t get me wrong, all of this is just fine. But I choose to, on my own accord, go with the less is more theory, choosing one major staple and then going minimal with everything else. Why would you want a huge shoulder carry all, all bling’d up with a gold chain, and then a giant pair of tortoise framed Chanel’s, eight rings, huge oversized hoops and then a pair of five inchers to pull off the entire thing? I’d rather place emphasis on one piece than pull out every stop in my closet all at once. But maybe that’s just it. Rachel has so much of absolutely everything, she probably has to wear so much of it otherwise it wouldn’t get worn. Or we could go with her theory, that she really just likes these things better than clothes.

Before getting into the what’s what of accessories, and what Rachel believe are the best basics every woman should own, she plays on a few simple notions of wisdom. First, is that accessories tell a lot about who you are. But I could have told you that. It’s obvious that the pendant hanging from your necklace will give off whichever vibe its visibly taken on. Think about the differences between a pistol, religious cross shape, and a feather. Each one has its own personality as an object, which generally reflects the emotion or state behind an outfit, or the mood of a person. I would never wear a pistol pendant around my neck. But if I was bloody pissed and decided that bullets and chains were now my thing, who the hells knows.

Rachel is all about the “wow factor.” Not surprising, given the amount of accessories she wears. Rachel has wow written all over her. However, if you’re like most women, having something hanging off of every limb of your body isn’t one hundred per cent appealing, so the best thing to do is either play up your best feature, like framing your face with great earrings, or elongating necklines with a drop-line necklace. If you have great hands, although, I don’t think I have ever seen a pair or horrid hands, shed you’re typical bands for some uberglam form of cocktail jewellery.

Lastly, Rachel has a few things to say about the classics, versus the “It” statements. “What’s great about most accessories,” says Rachel, “is they don’t look dated the way most clothes do after a while. You can wear the same chain or belt or heels year after year and they almost always endure.”

Notice the key word almost. That’s because of the trend factor. It seems every season some designer, from some noteworthy fashion community creates the most coveted item on nearly every celeb or stylist’s to-buy (or borrow) list. While these pieces are usually eye-grabbing and scream for attention, they’re typically ridiculously priced and after a single season will sit in your closet, on your top storage shelf for ten years until another designer decides to reappeal the trend and you won’t have to buy it because you have you piece from ten year prior. These pieces usually come in the form of bags or shoes. I can guarantee that the heels storming down Prada’s Spring 09 runways (you remember, the ones that led to the misfortune of so many models slipping and sliding down the runway) won’t be strutting the streets within the next twelve to eighteen months, but give it another eight to ten years and designers will think it’s great idea, once again to pair seven inch heels with tiny ankle socks, prone to make any woman, I don’t care if you can walk on stilts, crash and burn.

While classic pieces can often carry heavier price tags, like the classic Kelly Birkin bag or a great silk scarf form Hermes, these pieces are going to last a lifetime and will likely also be the pieces you pass on to your daughter’s daughter so she the absolutely best dressed in vintage finds the entire four years she’s in high school.

Now, onto the straight talk. Jewellery means everything to Rachel Zoe. She notes that you should, “always make sure to have one at least one piece that you love before you leave the house.” Makes sense. I don’t know too many people who wear things they hate, if they can help it anyways. Rachel’s must have jewellery box basics?

- Diamond studs, real or fake (I suggest investing in a pair of real diamond studs; they’ll last you a lifetime, and there is never a bad time to wear them, assuming you aren’t buying a pair that cover your entire earlobe)
- Hoop earrings, preferably one pair in white metal, another in yellow
- A statement-making cocktail ring
- Wow earrings. A big pair of gold earrings can glam up any outfit in a snap (I have to mention, though, that even though chandelier earrings are pieces that seem to go in and out quite often, I wouldn’t bank on them being your single pair of “wow earrings”)
- A strand of pearls, real or the best fake you can find (I completely agree with this. Real pearls are extremely expensive, but fake ones, look just that: absurdly fake. My mum and dad went to the Bahamas this past winter and were able to buy uncultured pearls, which they have an abundance of surrounding southern islands. While you have to bring them back home and have them professionally strung and clasped, they look beautiful and their actual value goes up a good five hundred bucks. They only thing different is that they haven’t been circulated and monitored to make sure they are completely smooth, but I kind of like mine with the sand graves in them Each one is different and all the more interesting)
- A watch. (I agree with Rachel when she mentions the whole men’s chunky watch look. Love, love, love it)
- A simple chain for every day, ideally with a charm that is personally meaningful. It becomes a signature (I wear a white gold chain with dangling T, &, Co. Lettering hanging from it, which I bought during my trip to Manhattan in the summer of 2007 amongst a mass of couples picking out engagement rings and beautiful heart pendants. Considering I was only buying something for myself, something simple seemed most appropriate)
- A bracelet, be it a bangle or a cuff (mine is my white gold charm bracelet, with dangling white gold charms I have slowly been adding since I was sixteen)
- A dressy necklace or pair of earrings. It can sparkle with crystal or diamonds, or coloured stones. But make sure it’s something that has glimmer—and makes you feel instantly dazzling (I have been dying to purchase something like this for a couple years, and for my twenty first birthday my mum and dad bought me a white gold necklace with a square cut, 1 carat diamond hanging from it. Now I’m just very careful as to wear I choose to wear it)

And then, it seems you have everything else. Rachel really does love her jewellery, but every other accessory has it’s place in her wardrobe as well. Quite obviously Rachel loves her metals. Rachel is known for adorning a whole load of yellow gold; I often grab anything in white gold, or pewter tones of metal. Either way, metals always work; just make sure you choose the right tone for your skin. Really pale skin tones with pink undertones look best with silver and platinum, for example. Oh, and braches. I am so glad this section was included, even though it’s tiny. I think a broach can add so much to an outfit, even if it’s simply attached to a blazer lapel. But you have no idea how many times one has come in handy when I want to change the length of a flowy skirt hemline and you can readjust the side, and with a quit pinup with a broach, you have a new skirt.
And hats. Rachel notes she loves hats, but I hardly see her wearing them. However, I too love hats, but never seem to wear them. I think I have a collection of ten or twelve, which isn’t too many, but, how many times can you wear a fedora or cloche without it looking like you wear it too often? You know what I mean? They’re especially good for when all I have time to do is let me hair air dry in the beachy-wave way that it does in the morning.

Rachel notes a scarf is great investment. Thank god. I don’t know how many pashminas I own now, even though I seem to wear the same black one over and over, and I have six gorgeous Nina Ricci square silk scarves I bought at Century 21 in New York the same summer I bought my Tiffany necklace. Scarves can easily dictate a mood or provide just the right amount of cover up when it feel like your exposing just a little too much. Around your neck, shoulders or head, scarves always, seemingly, do the trick. Belts also seem to add an extra bit of umph to an outfit. While most people use them to keep their pants up (even though I fully endorse tailoring your waistlines instead), belts turn around an outfit. Whether worn at your natural waist for a classic look, up higher for a cinched in sexy look, or low slung for something a little more boho chic, a belt can dictate the flow of your entire outfit. So, choose wisely, or choose nothing at all.

There is, of course, a good two pages dedicated to sunglasses. While much of Rachel’s dictation on sunglasses goes into specifics like which works best for your face shape, all that matters is that people generally look better when they’re wearing sunglasses. I have said it many times before, and I will continue to say it over and over again. Male or female, sunglasses always seem to make a person look better. However, they also completely cover up the single aspect of a person which can dictate all of their emotions and can often say more than one can physically speak. Eyes can a lot about a person, but they also say, “Hi, I didn’t get home until four am about too much vodka and I have to be up and going for eight am without my daily five shot latte.” That’s where they work really great for me, anyways. Sunglasses work as a great cover-up.

Oh, and then there’s the shoes. I think shoes should have had a much larger part in this book. Like an entire chapter, perhaps. But maybe that’s coming. I don’t know. I told myself I wouldn’t peek ahead. But, all I’m fed on shoes, and so all I can feed to you, is a single list of the most crucial set of shoes to have in your closet, says Rachel:

- Ballerina flats
- Metallic strappy sandals
- Plain knee high boots
- Great black pump

Shoes can change the feel of an outfit. Jeans will look entirely different depending on what shoes you decide to wear them with. It’s all about choices.

Rachel’s venture of accessories finishes with a short declaration of her love of handbags. I, too, love bags, and for me, the bigger the better. I really wish I could carry a huge slouchy shoulder bag with me to a bar, but I’m afraid it would get in the way with my wild dancing habits. Rachel’s top four bags include a medium sized, simple shaped leather bag that doesn’t scream fashion that can travel from day to night, a winter white bag, an oversized tote for work and travel (although this sort of applies to my every day habit), and a black patent clutch. Black is always in style, and patent never dies.

Much of this makes sense to me, because I seem to tailor things differently in my find when it comes to styling. But much of this may not make much sense to the average college student, which is exactly what I am, aside from that whole mind thing. While college is the biggest excuse for comfort clothing stacking closets for four years (I too am a large culprit of this), never under estimate the necessities for campus accessories: an iPod coloured to suit your individual personality, a great cell phone/smart phone to do the same (because people don’t seem to actually wear watched too often, it seems), sunglasses, big or small big there are too many mornings that are spent hung over in lecture halls, a bag large enough to carry your textbook, notepad, magazine for when you’re supposed to being reading that textbook but don’t, water for the day and all that would normally be in your purse (what’s the point in carrying two bags? One that is bigger, is much better), and shoes that were made for walking. If you can wear heels for twelve hours straight, do it. I do, but not on a daily basis. Flats works great for around campus, and boots are a must for winters in Canada. I don’t care how many people say it, but I’ll be wearing my Uggs in Canada forever. See? Even Kate Moss break them out (even though I’m not entirely sure of old this photo actually is, I still think it’s relevant):

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Google Images

so goddamned picky

2009-04-27T10:49:00.007-04:00

I buy a few new swimsuits every spring season for the upcoming summer. Last summer I only used one of my three new swimsuits a single time, so while I could be just as happy with my never worn other two, I am still going to purchase one.

Funny thing is, after all the scouring I have done on numerous websites and through a few boutique shops down on Burlington's lakeshore, I have only been able to find one that I like. And it's far less expensive that I usually toss out for something that contains the least amount of material I ever wear. Visibly, anyways.

Anyways, at $38 a piece for both the top and bottom, I am saving a whole load of money on this bikini from Victoria's Secret. I love that there's a pattern, but it's exclusively in black and white. I always have such a hard time trying to decide whether or not pattern actually seem to suit me, so black and white in a simple geometric scratch print seems perfect and the teal trim is necessary for me because I am sure I was look far too pasty in a straight black and white. Plus, teal is far better for my skin then anything in the red family, which includes everything from yellow to pink.

Now I just need to start an insane exercise regime so I can become maybe only double this model's size and hopefully by July I'll be able to face the beach. Until then, I'll be trekking out in my black deep racer back one piece with great side cutouts.

Much love,

Image c/o Victoria's Secret

why not live it up?

2009-04-21T21:42:00.018-04:00

A little while ago (or a long while ago), I bought Rachel Zoe's book to style, “Style A to Zoe: The Art of Fashion, Beauty & Everything Glamour.” Since I had lost quite a large part of my blog drive over the course of the school year and tried to keep up with at least the runway shows each season (I don't even think I have finished Paris, let alone covered the Canadian scene), I seem to have neglected the larger reason behind why I love fashion.

Its not just the name behind the label or the signature lettering assigned to specific design houses. I'm not a brand whore, even though I stand behind high end designer labels because I know how much quality each piece holds.

What I forgot is that it's not necessarily about always being “in fashion.” It's about style and owning your own style and launching that style with confidence. There is no point in having every dress in the latest trends with pieces from all of the up and coming designers across the globe. If that happened, then we'd all look more or less the same and the diversity that I appreciate in the fashion world would be lost.

So last night I decided to open up “the” book; what I'd like to dub as Rachel Zoe's self-acclaimed Bible. I have decided to take on only a single chapter at a time, even though I find the impulse to keep going through chapter after chapter because I want to know what Rachel has to say about “style.” But, for the sake of making this last at least a week, and actually trying to gain something from what I read and the photos I look at, I'm taking it one step at a time.

And so it begins, Zoe's introduction titled: Dream On.

Rachel's life is filled with nothing but glamour. The woman behind some of the top styled celebrities and socialites across North America has been able to embrace her passion and turn it into her lifestyle. Every bit of her life seems to have pushed boundaries and goes just a little more than over the top. In her introduction, Zoe notes, “A life of glamour and style makes everything that much more electrifying, that much more engaging... Glamour can come in the form of a suggestion, a hint—like a pair of oversized sunglasses [as a side note, this is total Rachel Zoe style]--or I can appear in its unapologetic glory, blinding bright from a pile of gold bangles on a bronzed wrist or at an informally chic dinner you throw for your friends at a favourite restaurant. It isn't about fashion. It's style.”

Of course Zoe's book is filled with photos and cartoon-style sketches of herself and her own personal style, not to mention the celebs that she regularly dresses and side notes from designers and the accomplished individuals she closely works with, like that from Valentino:

“Rachel has a deep love for all that is glamorous and she embraces the new, but she also appreciates timeless style. She respects a woman's own personality when she dresses her and yet has an instinct for what will make and entrance—and what will be photographed.”

After all, what's the point of all of Rachel's work if it's never photographed; if no one ever sees it?

Rachel really tries to push the idea that in creating your own style is all about dreaming. Whether it's about opportunity, lifestyles, or, specifically, how you dress, it's crucial in defining your own personality.

Rachel has been defining her own personality since she was young. Her mother, a natural style leader, bred a sense of strong style within her daughter right from the beginning. Rachel even notes in her book that she saved all of her allowance and gift money for a year so she could afford a $200 vintage mink coat she picked up on a day trip into New York's West Village with her friends at only thirteen years old.

Rachel knows herself. She knows that glamour is what she craves; and over the top is her signature style. Just like she knows the personality of each of the women she works with, Rachel notes that it's crucial to know yourself (honestly), in order to create your own look and define what will eventually evolve into your own individual style. Honestly in knowing yourself is what I think is one of Rachel's strongest points in this introduction. Coming from my end, an individual who has never been just quite satisfied with myself, honesty can be brutal. But no one is one hundred per cent happy with themselves, there is always something they want to change. Which, to Rachel, is a great thing. Because everyone, as individuals, change; and so can your style. You don't want your style at twenty one years old to be comparable to what it will be when you are forty years old. At least I won't. As long as you are honest with yourself and who you are, being able to change your style as your evolve in your own life will be far more simple.

Rachel is also one of the most noted vintage shoppers, well, ever. I am not sure she seems to shop in some of the lower price range vintage shops (on her television show her vintage finds include designer gowns and gold cuffs), but she encourages being able to mix in higher priced, quality pieces with low priced finds. Says Rachel, “Some of the most stylish glamazons are living it up on a dime. They just know how to reinvent a look with a belt or by wearing their hat another way.”

If you're looking for a cheap way to up your glamour appeal, Rachel offers her top essential under fifty bucks:

red lipstick (an instant glam-rush for any woman)
black eye liner (my personal favourite for late night... anything)
great heels (but really, I haven't been able to find a great pair of heels for $50 since I was twelve and I thought 2” qualified as a “high heel”)
faux fur shrug (I love this idea; I have been searching for one for almost two years now, but I am having a difficult time finding one that is a) faux, b) not too bulky, and c) complimentary to my skin tone)
metallic clutch (I think this is an asset, especially because you can mix and match all sorts of metallics with whichever look you're tying to achieve, as long as you keep it in your accessories. I always prefer to go with bronze or copper)

So really, says Rachel, just as pure introduction, that's all there is to it. Know thyself honestly and you can create a style that is all your own. You can change it, or simply edit it as much as you'd like, as often as you'd like, just as long as you keep loving it.

Above: Rachel Zoe (right) with Glenda Bailey, Editor in Chief at Harper's Bazaar (my personal favourite Fashion magazine)

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Google Images

for sarah

2009-04-18T12:37:00.000-04:00

come lay down by sarahbeukema

when i leave this phase

2009-04-09T12:58:00.002-04:00

words will come easier.
sleep will come less often.
reading will be reborn as a passion.

accomplishing tasks will replace my endless to do lists.

much love,
s.

paris is burning: day one through seven, fall 09

2009-03-10T22:01:00.012-04:00

Paris fashion is beyond that of any other fashion city in the world. French fashion has alot to say for itself and Paris has become the city to represent some of the top designers from other European countries.

So what I have decided to do is go through each collection like I normally do and create a general post, which is this one and other labelled as "paris is burning" ... (with fashion that is), with a photo srip of the "best of" photos form each day, aside from the designs that I have far too many opinions about to only post photos. Those designers will follow in the next few days.

And then next week is Toronto's LG Fashion Week! How excited are my fellow Canadians?!

Enjoy browsing, and, as always, go view the entire collections yourself at Style.com!

Day One
(From left to right, top to bottom: Anne Valerie Hash, Kris Van Assche, Rue du Mail [to end])

Day Two

(From left to right, top to bottom: A.F. Vandevorst, Azzaro, Azzaro, Azzaro, Bruno Pieters, rick Owens [to end])

Day Three

(From left to right, top to bottom: Issey Miyake, Issey Miyake, Issey Miyake, Jasmine Di Milo, Jasmine Di Milo, Jasmine Di Milo, Veronique Leroy [to end])

Day Four, Part One

(From left to right, top row: ann Demeulemeester; From left to right, bottom row: Haider Ackermann)

Day Four, Part Two

(From left to right, top row: Tao; From left to right, bottom row: Veronique Branquinho)

Day Five

(From left to right, top to bottom: Akris, Akris, Andrew Gn, Andrew Gn, Costume National, Costume National, Dries Van Noten, Hussein Chalayan, Undercover, Undercover)

Day Six contained only four designers, but four of the top designers worldwide, Giam Battista Valli, Stella McCartney, Viktor & Rolf, and Yves Saint Laurent, all of which, I believe, deserve their own deliverance.

Day Seven

(From left to right, top to bottom: Martin Grant, Martin Grant, Requiem, Vanessa Bruno [to end])

Much love,

Images c/o Style

milan fashion week, day five, the best of

2009-03-04T11:20:00.003-05:00

Dolce & Gabbana

Dsquared2

Fendi

Francesco Scognamiglio (top row) and MaxMara (bottom row)

Pollini (top row) and Versace (bottom row)

Much love,

Images c/o Style

milan fashion week, day four, the best of

2009-03-04T11:12:00.004-05:00

Aquilano.Rimondi (top row) and Etro (bottom row)

Marni

Maurizio Pecoraro (top row) and Prada (bottom row)

Pringle of Scotland (top row) and Salvatore Ferragamo (bottom)

Roberto Cavalli

Much love,

Images c/o Style

milan fashion week, day three, the best of

2009-03-01T16:56:00.003-05:00

Albino (top) and Alessandro Dell'Acqua (bottom)

Blumarine

Bottega Veneta (top) and Emilio Pucci (bottom)

Gucci (top) and Iceberg (bottom)

Luisa Beccaria (top) and Moschino (bottom)

Much love,

Images c/o Style

the first sight of spring

2009-02-28T14:03:00.009-05:00

I have been flipping (Read: actually spending most of my nights lying in bed) through the Spring Issue 9March 2009) of Harpers's Bazaar, which is easily known to be my favourite magazine. I love the spring issue nearly as much as I love the fall issue, so I wanted to take some time to showcase two of my favourite spreads from the issue.

The first I love because at first it seems like the strangest thing to see a bunny cruising the streets of New York, but ends up getting all cute at the end. You'll see.

The second is a spread with Ed Westwick. And even though many may not love Chuck Bass, Ed Westwick is hard not to adore, and he does this scene very well.

The last photo is the latest Marc Jacobs advertisement. I always love Marc Jacobs ads (not to mention his designs), but this one reminds me of autumn, so I had to bring it into this mix of spring flair.

The first photo you're seeing here at the top of this post was the introduction two page spread of Sarah Jessica Parker, who was the cover model for this spring. Her bridge photo is very Carrie Bradshaw a la Sex and the City, and the gorgeous Chanel dress she sports looks incredible with the extra movement. Not to mention those booties. Everyone loks a great booties, especially in a complementary colour to the dress SJP wears.

Enjoy.

"Street Chic" Harpers Bazaar March 2009

"The Gossip Graduate" Harpers Bazaar March 2009

Marc Jacobs (advertisement) Harpers Bazaar March 2009

Much love,

Images c/o Harpers Bazaar March 2009 (available to you wherever you pick up your own monthly does of fashion).

milan fashion week, day two, the best of

2009-02-28T13:03:00.004-05:00

Alberta Ferretti

Burberry Prorsum

D&G

Gianfranco Ferre

Giorgio Armani

Jil Sander

Much love,

Images c/o Style

milan fashion week, day one, the best of

2009-02-28T11:57:00.002-05:00

Emporio Armani

Just Cavalli

Missoni

Moschino Cheap and Chic

Much love,

Images c/o Style

tell me london. whataya got?

2009-02-27T17:47:00.001-05:00

While I enjoy viewing the photos from the London shows just as much as I do New York, Paris and Milan, I am on an overload with school work right now, and can't commit to an additional ten hours worth of blog work over the weekend, in addition to supplying you all the juice from Milan. So, now that the shows in London have finished and I have been able to amuse myself with all the photos from each show, I have also come across a piece that Refinery29 ran up on their site with the top trends hailing from from the land of the Brits.

So, complements of R29, here's a general feel of what you could see in London. Keep your eyes severely peeled for the winter white lace and graphic knit sweaters. I still, however, always encourage you to check out the full photo collections at Style.com.

Our Top 10 Runway Trends from Across the Pond
By By Erin Donnelly and Piera Gelardi

As you've no doubt gleaned from our photo diary, London Fashion Week was a pint- and curry-fueled whirlwind of shows, parties, wicked street fashion, Oyster card swiping, and Kanye sightings. But it wasn't all a blur. As we skipped from show to show, several trends leaped out at us as a precursor of things that will soon be appearing on our credit card bills. Though many of New York's trends—cut-outs, furs, saturated colors—made their way across the pond, the London runways provided their own unique perspective on where fashion is headed. Judging by the trends below, we're just happy to go along for the ride. (Which means this economy had better start picking up—we've got some major shopping to do!)

1. Head-to-Toe Prints—We've come to rely on that British flair for madcap graphics, and this season's smattering of all-over prints—including Josh Goot's sweet-meets-slick marbleized suits, Erdem and Peter Pilotto's rich mix-and-match florals, and Danielle Scutt's red, white and black optical swirls—didn't disappoint. It's less moving wallpaper, more Anouck Lepere. Above, from left: Danielle Scutt, Erdem, Josh Goot, Erdem, photos via nymag.com.

2. Femmebots—From Giles' metallic lampshade skirts to Richard Nicoll's silver-plated trousers and bustiers to Louise Goldin's leather-on-knit body armor, we detected a definite "take me to your leader" vibe. Futuristic, but feminine. Above, from left: Giles Deacon, Richard Nicoll, Giles Deacon, Louise Goldin, photos via nymag.com.

3. Trompe L'Oeil Hourglass Shapes—No curves? No problem! Contouring seemed to be a big buzzword this season, with contrasting panels adding the illusion of cinched-in, womanly curves at shows like Jaeger. Above, from left: Jaeger London, Erdem, Mary Katrantzou, Christopher Kane, photos via nymag.com.

4. Line Drawing—Piping, too, came out of its cage to add contour and visual interest, from Ann-Sofie Back's Hellraiser-like pattern to Christopher Kane's sleek black velvet lines which popped against his wispy nude creations. Above, from left: Christopher Kane, Josh Goot, Ann-Sofie Back, photos via nymag.com.

5. Galactic Prints—We got a starry-eyed surprise at TopShop Unique, Peter Pilotto, and Marios Schwab (who even threw in 3-D glasses to view his collection inspired by crystal fissures), where the embellished prints were out of this world. So many fun options for those holiday parties in our future. Above, from left: Topshop Unique, Marios Schwab, Peter Pilotto, Topshop Unique, photos via nymag.com and style.com.

6. Winter White Lace—Out with the sultry "La Dolce Vita" black of seasons past, in with the virginal winter whites. Lace took a softer, more antique, almost bridal turn, peeking out in sheer creamy sheets that recalled old christening gowns. Above, from left: Aquascutum, Paul Smith, PPQ, Basso & Brooke, photos via nymag.com.

7. Picture Sweaters—Bill Cosby's reign of terror continued at shows like Ashish and Peter Jensen. We actually have a soft spot for these quirky knits—perfect for jazzing up a basic pair of jeans on the weekend. Above, from left: Eley Kishimoto, Issa, Ann-Sofie Back, Peter Jensen, photos via nymag.com.

8. Sharp Shoulders—New York's voluminous puffs gave way to angular, epaulet-esque shoulders at TopShop Unique and Julien Macdonald—think linebacker meets West Point meets Sean Young in Blade Runner. Let's just hope we don't get stuck in any doorways. Above, from left: Julian McDonald, Topshop Unique, Julian McDonald, Armand Basi, photos via nymag.com and style.com.

9. Rocker Minidresses—Though we saw plenty of lowered hemlines in New York, we knew we could trust the Brits to deliver body-conscious minidresses with a dash of that trademark trashy-but-not-tragic flair. The result: an unapologetically sexy stash of form-fitting long-sleeved frocks that we'll be huffing and puffing to get into. Above, from left: Marios Schwab, Peter Pilotto, Louise Goldin, Mark Fast, photos via nymag.com and style.com.

10. Knots—The "Knotty by Nature" street style trend we spied a while back is getting love from the runway, with Roksanda Ilinic and company sending down scrunched-up twists of fabric. We love a trend we can DIY. Above, from left: Issa, Noir, Roksanda Ilincic, Issa, photos via nymag.com.

Much love,

Source: Refinery29

new york fashion week, day 8, the best of

2009-02-27T16:49:00.003-05:00

Chado Ralph Rucci

L'Wren Scott

Ralph Lauren

Stephan Burrows

Much love,

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day seven, the best of

2009-02-26T19:51:00.003-05:00

(From left to right, top to bottom: Brian Reyes, Calvin Klein, Douglas Hannant, Douglas Hannant, Douglas Hannant, Isaac Mizrahi)

(From left to right, top to bottom: Julian Louie, Kai Kuhne, Katy Rodriguez, Malandrino, Naeem Khan, Phi)

(From left to the right, top to bottom: Ports 1961, Rebecca Taylor, Tommy Hilfiger, Vera Wang, Zac Posen, Zac Posen)

Much love,

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day six, the bext of

2009-02-26T11:29:00.002-05:00

(Left to right, top to bottom: 3. 1 Phillip Lim, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Alexandre Herchocovitch, Anna Sui, Anna Sui, Devi Kroell, Doo. Ri, J. Mendel)

(Left to right, top to bottom: J. Mendel, Juan Carlos Obando, Marchesa, Michael Kors, Michael Kors, Michael Kors, Milly, Nanette Lapore)

(Left to right, top to bottom: Oscar de la Renta, Oscar de la Renta, Proenza Schuler, Proenza Schuler, Richard Chai, Tory Burch, Tory Burch, Vivienne Tam)

Much love,

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day five, the best of

2009-02-24T12:52:00.002-05:00

(From left to right, top to bottom: Bedgley Mischka, Behnaz sarafpour, Cynthia Steffe, Dennis Basso, Derek Lam, Diesel Black Gold)

(From left to right, top to bottom: G-Star, Halston, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Matthew Williamson, Max Azria)

(from left to right, top to bottom: Narciso Rodriguez, Philosophy, Rodarte, Sophie Theallet, Tibi, Trovata)

Much love,

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day four, the best of

2009-02-23T11:08:00.007-05:00

(Left to right, top to bottom: Altuzarra, Betsey Johnson, Carlos Miele, Carolina Herrera, Carolina Herrera, Chris Benz, Cynthia Rowley, Cynthia Rowley)

(Left to right, top to bottom: Daryl K, Donna Karan, Donna Karan, Elie Tahari, Jill Stuart, Jill Stuart, Jill Stuart, Luca Luca)

(Left to right, top to bottom: Lutz & Patmos, Organic by John Patrick, Temperley London, Temperley London, Temperley London, Thakoon, William Rast, William Rast, William Rast, Zero + Maria Cornejo)

(Marc Jacobs)

Much love,

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day three, part three

2009-02-23T10:54:00.001-05:00

Reem Acra
The Reem Acra label is always the epitome of class and elegance. This year, full length gowns were shown off in an intimate setting, set out for full viewing. Playing with a multitude of colours, gowns in chiffon, satin and taffeta were seen in either strapless styles or high necked. Acra’s previous history in bridal wear is what brings such strong tailoring to his evening wear. There are certainly a few numbers that would be perfect for Oscar wears next year, such as the mauve Champaign toned number and the strapless wet-looking black gown.

Tuleh
Another classic American designer, Bryan Bradley, puts out a classic feeling collection every season. The designer for Tuleh will soon be launching his own self titled label, but for now, his creations for Tuleh are enough for me. A designer for the ultimate uptown woman, Bradley’s designs depict class and sophistication, no matter how many colours or cuts he used in his collection. But, true to classic form, a knee length is always, always in style.

Victoria Beckham

I do not like the Victoria Beckham line. I am just putting it out there. But the clothing has no interest whatsoever, and it seems as if all the models pose exactly in the way Victoria graces red carpets herself. The shapes for this collection were all looks I have seen before, most notable on Victoria herself. However, there were a couple show stoppers, mainly the floor length black gowns. And I mean that. All of the floor length black gowns were stunning. Everything else didn’t hold my interest in the slightest.

Y-3

Y-3 doesn’t typically carry the most wearable pieces, but the Fall 09 collection, now including children’s wear as well (we always knew it would go there), contained pieces that were one hundred percent street worthy. Seriously, I don’t think there were more than two or three pieces that I didn’t think would dare the streets aside from the uber fashion savvy. Starting the show off in a mass of black and grey, blue soon followed with the introduction, later of orange. I don’t even understand how orange became such a great colour, but if you’re blonde and blue eyed, some of the Y-3 pieces’ll be perfect for you for fall 09.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day three, part two

2009-02-23T10:50:00.003-05:00

Jeremy Laing
A straight display of geometrics.

Jonathan Saunders
Jonathan Saunders’ show was very interesting to me. While Saunders usually takes on a much more wearable feature to his collection, this season was slightly different. Playing with construction and architectural appeal, Saunders’ main element in his designs this season was the appeal of different shapes. The accentuation on shoulders had a great 80’s feel, while the longer sleek maxi dresses played with a 90’s vibe, and the psychedelic colours were a strong shout to the 60’s and 70’s. A combination of fabrics and colours, the stand out piece of the collection was easily the second to closing number, a mini vamped puff sleeve metallic electric blue back to the future-esque dress with ruby toned velvet platform pumps.

Lela Rose

The Lela Rose collection is always a little more grown up. Outside of my realms of taste and style, the collection, overall was a clean and crisp presentation of classic American sportswear, complete with knee length skirts, cashmere knit sweaters, cute cut jackets and coats, and cocktail skirts, knee length, of course. Staying away from the classic black palette, however, Rose’s collection for Fall 09 was a mass of grey, hit in my tones of greens, blues, and yellows, with the occasional fuchsia. Patty, if you’re reading this, this one’s for you.

Miss Sixty

I love, love, love the Miss Sixty line. Even though it has a bit more sex appeal than I’d likely wear, the hard edge, grunge look never looks better than it does in the Miss Sixty line. Fall 09 carried out the same rough around the edges, rock ‘n roll look that Spring 09 held, but the introduction to prints and patterns, floral in particular provided an interesting twist on what we typically classify as being 80’s rock ‘n roll. The shots of purple and ruby in some looks throughout also added to a stronger visual interest. My top picks? The long white mohair coat with printed interior and the graphic printed leggings under this gorgeous white, black belt cinched, dress that Miss Weber carried down the runway.

Preen
Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi for Preen never miss the mark. Whether it’s the fact that their collection, nearly entirely black and white with single hits of colour in one toned items, was outfitted with body-con mini dresses, large on top and skinny on bottom looks, or the major cut outs on numerous numbers. A noteworthy mention to the enormous fur coat half way through the collection and the crazy rainbow dresses at the end.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day three, part one

2009-02-20T12:19:00.004-05:00

Boy by Band of Outsiders
Boy by Band of Outsiders collections, designed by Scott Sternberg, always take an interesting twist on womenswear. Instead of introducing new fabrics for individual womens pieces, Sternberg decides to use fabric from menswear in his construction. Because Boy by Band of Outsiders is based specifically on menswear for women, approaching fabric in this way also allows for an understand of how the clothes will always fit. This year’s collection for Fall 09 was based on the idea of a French student. Instead of his typically ubertrendy pieces, Sternberg created looks that, I believe, will appeal to a much wider audience, whether that’s by age, demographic, or just personal style.

Diane von Furstenberg
Diane von Furstenberg creates some of the most loved clothing to date. Women, everywhere, loves what she designs and creates and her own personal style (even given that she wears many of her own pieces), is just impeccable. Catering to women of multiple ages that have confidence, self assurance and a desire for sexiness, von Furstenberg’s line is always catering well. This year, von Furstenberg simply ignored the whole recession deal that everyone keeps shouting about and did her own thing anyways; the thing she simple does best. And that’s always just a little bit more than necessary. There was embroidery, beadings details, beautiful fabrics, patterns, and the colour pattern even felt rich. Von Furstenberg is a woman of many dresses, and, this season was no exception. But, targeting the fall season, many were paired with slouchy comfy cardigans and warm overcoats, as well as leggings in leather and prints. And, finishing the show, in true Diane von Furstenberg style, she didn’t veer from her true glamour, and put out an array of gowns worthy of the most well known dive, Diana Ross, who’s song wasn’t only playing to the stomp of the models, but who was also sitting in the audience.

DKNY

DKNY is going to be one of those great commercial brands that everyone starts shopping at this season. Not just because they have great prices, but because they’re a well know, American sportswear designer label as well. Despite how great clothing may look or be made, we are always consumed by the label or the hands that made it, and the higher the prices, the more quality and care is put into it. However, we can breathe a sigh of relief with DKNY because not only is made great and of incredible quality, it’s also got a low(er) price than some other labels. This year, Donna Karen and company put together looks of timeless pieces, focusing heavily on outerwear, and, as long as you feel comfortable wearing black, grey, camel, poppy red or Kelly green, DKNY will have you outfitted for fall.

Erin Featherston

Erin Featherston’s collections are always a little mystical to me. Not that they look that way in colour palette, nor do they have that airy, fantasy look to them, but, to me, they are a step away from reality, which is why I love them so much. This season was no different. Her collection was inspired by The Nutcracker’s tin soldiers, with little tailored riding jackets and dozens of empire waists. They were looks you wanted to put on and just go to a party in. They were, seriously, that cute. Although I’m only showing you a few photos here from her collection, I highly suggest you check out the entire show.

Herve Leger by Max Azria
1998 marked the year that Max Azria bought Hervé Léger, creating the label Hervé Léger by Max Azria. Building the bandage dress as their strongpoint for the line, the key pieces isn’t going anywhere, and, this season, it was just about switch a couple things around, and vamping things up. The colours were more muted this season and things were a little more exotic and sexy. There was chiffon, snakeskin, built out 80’s shoulders and a piece that was crystal beaded.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day two, part three

2009-02-20T11:21:00.001-05:00

United Bamboo
United Bamboo isn’t all much of an elusive design house, to me, at least. While many of the looks remind me of grade school days, I wasn’t too pleased with the jumpers at all. I love jumpers; mind you these ones weren’t tailored to a tee. In fact, they were rather boxy. Some of the shirts, rather than of a chic ensemble, were sort of, well, secretary-ish. That’s terrible to put a label on it, but it was sort of uptight. What I can give a well done to, though, was the overcoats that had great construction details, and the cocktail dresses, well, at least there were a couple sweet dresses.

Vena Cava
Vena cava, designed by duo Sophia Buhai and Lisa Mayock, described her collection as going from acoustic to digital this season. For fall 09, the girls opted for a much more grown up, sexy look. Similar to previous seasons, the duo showed off their signature leggings and long (as well as some short) dresses with cuts out. But they went a little more 80’s rock ‘n roll with the additional of some leather motorcycle jackets, fur, fringe, studs, sequins, and zippers. Being the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund runners up for 2008, each piece carries its own wearability, and entire looks will be easily pulled off as well. The twenty one look collection certainly held interest, although, with promise of multiple surprises with detail, I think there was a slight let down with the final product. While we, as viewers of the collection, hoped for the best that has yet to come from Vena Cava, we were give, still, a great collection, but just not living up to the hype that had been projected.

VPL

Putting a twist on the regular, Victoria Bartlett of VPL took the ordinary and deconstructed it to put together pieces that have a natural twist. Many of the pieces were knit, which I adore for fall. There’s nothing better than something warm that has the “comfort” appeal. Bartlett’s pieces’ll be the type that get picked up and worn for years. Typical basics but different enough that boredom doesn’t ensue. My favourite pieces fell first at the beginning of the show, a romp of electric shades of blue, and then I was slightly turned off by a few of the yellow and brown family pieces, but, alas, my love picked up once again with the introduction of, you guessed it, black. An, altogether, well put together collection exemplifying the need for basics for Fall 09.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day two, part two

2009-02-19T14:31:00.004-05:00

Koi Suwannagate
Koi Suwannagate really does do knit and cashmere well. Her Fall 09 collection offered up some of her (in my opinion) best work. Oversized boyfriend sweaters and cardigans are what held my eye, and the addition of vintage buttons showed off well in the natural light of the Morgans Hotel where Koi showcased her collection. The cigarette pants turned out well, especially given that they were made of lycra, but they could have been just a tad skinny at the ankle. And, of course, Koi’s signature rosettes were everywhere in her collection.

Lacoste
Ah, American sportswear. That’s the definition of Lacoste. Or, rather, Lacoste is the definition to American sportswear. The collection for Fall 09 was a much more comfort cozy feel, with a lot of layering and really soothing colours (there was a lot of cream, plae blues, greys and yellows). The Lacoste house always creates pieces that are very wearable and exemplify the entire “ready-to-wear” label, rather than something much more trend setting or fashion forward. This type of casual doesn’t do much for me, even though I can appreciate some of the individual pieces, specifically in the menswear, but it’s not just me who is the target audience. I’m not even American!

Ohne Titel
This is one serious black attack. Like many other designers, the duo, Alexa Adams and Flora Gill of Ohne Titel, decided to darken things up a little more than usual. While many of the structuring and styling details of their Fall 09 collection are similar to previous, the entire mood shifted from something much more airy to this eerie sense of dark and beautiful. Some of my favourite pieces include the zipper cut trousers, the fur blazer, the gorgeous ruffle topped over the knee leather boots, and the body-con minidresses.

Ruffian

Ruffian is back to what they do best: dressing a lady like a lady. Or, rather your typical definition of a lady, you know, the whole glam’d up evening wear complete with lace, frills, sleek tailoring, and everything from beaded dresses to silk ruffles. Brian Walk and Claude Morais of Ruffian pulled together a thirty three look collection that sort of made me wish I was invited to events that I could dress this well. Or, this put together, at least. While there was a sea of dark tones for fall making their way down the red carpeted catwalk, my absolute favourite look was the final cocktail dress: a mini, just as red as the carpet with this gorgeous gathered taffeta bust, with a one piece sheer polka-dot leotard underneath. Stunning.

Threeasfour
Here is my deal with Threeasfour: I used to love them. I really, really did. And then the Spring 09 collection was just a total let down, filled with far too many neon colours, and I feel as if this season’s Fall 09 collection is just a revamp of colour palette from spring, to fall. The same shapes that came down the spring runway last September are just the same as those that walked last week. The dresses seem as if they are simply hanging on the models, and, while I am sure they are made of some of the most exquisite materials and the finest tailoring goes into each piece, I just can’t get over the fact that there is not one single piece that I’ll be remembering. Well, aside from the bandaged heads.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day two, part one

2009-02-19T13:25:00.004-05:00

ADAM
When Adam Lippes broke out the ADAM line, I couldn’t be happier. Inspired by an exhibit of Japanese photography, Lippes brought his collection to the tents at Bryant Park this year, and infused his show with hot primary colours, holding nothing back. The sportswear designer creates pieces for ADAM that, in this recession (I know, I said it again), many consumer will be able to afford for fall. Especially the outerwear pieces Lippes designed; there were oversized wool blazers, quilted leather numbers, and very real looking faux fur jackets. Bringing together all the colours of the rainbow, and nearly every fabric possible, Lippes’ designs construct pieces that are wearable for any women. The covered necklines were an aspect I really enjoyed, and the cinched skinny-belt waists were something I couldn’t ignore.

Alexander Wang
Anyone who knows me knows I adore Alexander Wang. In fact, I think much of the Spring 09 fashion trends will be derived from his collection. Well, and the house of Balmain, but that’s for another day. Choosing to showcase his collection in the Roseland Ballroom, “a venues that’s witnessed generations of cool kids, loud music, and smoky late night. In other words: a hand-in-glove perfect fit for Wang’s cool clothes, loud crowd and smoking after-parties,” noted Style.com writer, Meenal Mistry, celebrities like Zoe Kravitz and Sarah Jessica Parker showed, as well as one of my favourite It girls, Jen Brill. Wang’s tailored looks won the hearts of many as the latest CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund winner. However, while Wang notes that growing up for his girl means luxury, you can never take the edge out of Wang’s self titled line. The metal, leather, fringe, croc skins with matching shoes, bags, and belts are only a few of the indications. The sexy power walk that the models took down the runway, was another. As a designer that speaks to women in their twenties, this year’s pieces are priced lower than before, making it perfect for us girls scramming through college on barely a dollar, but still find the buck to pick up just the right bag or pair of shoes, any day of the week.

Elise Overland

Elise Overland dresses power women. That’s just the way it is. She outfitted Shakira in black leather leggings at the inauguration ceremony, and leather was all over the runway for her Fall 09 collection. Whether it was in full form, or pieces beyond all measure, leather was everywhere. Take for instance the spray painted lamb skin jacket. We all thought it was just a purple lame. But no. Spray paint. Fading from her typically elegance in gowns and accessories, Overland’s collection this season had a much larger cool factor. All these changes in designers’ collections is making me wonder who their target audience is becoming. The ubershort minidresses were just one thing to be reckoned with. The green metallic trousers were another. And nothing went beyond the infinite details Overland but into her work, like the hand studding, or hand scratching of leather coats.

Hutson

Christian and Swain Hutson have been on a rollercoaster ride. Being one of the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalists for their lines of Obedient sons and Daughters, and now the husband-wife-duo showed their collection in an intimate setting at the Bowery Hotel. The duo’s fall collection was much harder and stiff then their spring collection for their line, Daughters. This season, the designers included their signature suiting (they are, after all, top of the line tailors), but began to move away to much more feminine pieces. However, given that the line is so structured and form-figure made, the stiffness will be the only thing drawing away the eyes of consumers. We like a little ruffle to move when we do our own runway saché!

Karen Walker
Karen Walker’s inspiration was a little skewed at the beginning of her show. While her theme, “Cracked” was supposed to show off the beauty of catastrophe, the first few looks were the most put together things I could have imagined. You know, skinny trousers, stilettos, trench, even hat and gloves. Total upper east side. But then, later into the show, the disaster began to come out. And I really, really enjoyed it. The whole rough around the edges looks really does it for me. Walker always does good things with graphic prints, and this collection was no different. The collection was a great example of pieces that you can buy individually or work in all together. Perfect if you’ve only got one bill, or one hundred bills.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day one, part three

2009-02-19T12:11:00.003-05:00

Rachel Comey
There is always something interesting about a Rachel Comey show. While Comey chose to go back to her familiar grounds with floral prints in both big and small, and a few animal prints too, a Comey show just isn’t the same without swinging monkeys is it? Aside from all dramatics, the Fall 09 collection Rachel Comey pulled together was, straight up, about comfort. There were multiple layers. And by multiple, I really do mean that. It was like a, winter cottage retreat look when you’re huddled up by the fireplace with a dozen layers on keeping yourself warm from the blizzard snow outside. Some of the pieces were a little too straight cut, in a boxy, unflattering way that seems to only look good on models because of their tiny waists, but as individual pieces, say with, ultra skinny cigarette jeans, the box cut cropped blazers and tops would look fabulous. Another hint that Comey’s inspiration came from the great outdoors? Check out those fur caps.

Rag & Bone
I will never get over Rag & Bone. Not for menswear, not for womenswear. Never, never, never. Marcus Wainwright and David Neville’s urban edge is something I couldn’t make do without. The heavy leather, dark colour palette, deep jewel hues, and lace up boots were the parts that held the cohesiveness to the show. I loved the waistcoats, and the blazers, the leather leggings, the structural use of layering and the mixed shapes and forms of silhouettes. And the leg warmers: fabulous. (PS: don’t you love Coco as a redhead!? It’s her natural colour too!)

Shipley & Halmos

The Shipley & Halmos ready to wear Fall 09 collection was not a disappointment. As much as I loved the straight menswear line, I love the women’s wear ten times over. Very urban city, very slick and direct. Sam Shipley said of the collection, “These pieces are for an individualist, someone with conviction and an end goal in mind.” While the collection was a repeat of very similar styles and shape, tailored in similar fabrics, like the array of leather and silk, the fit of the garments and how they translated on the runway was what held my eye. Sometimes it isn’t always about the fanciest looks or the largest amount of innovation. Sometimes, it’s about doing what you do really well, and sticking with it.

Staerk

Camilla Staerk’s collection of fourteen looks was small but strong. There’s nothing wrong with putting everything you have into only fourteen looks, when you know, it will turn out phenomenal. The collection was pretty but packed so much edge. There were frayed edges, mesh and fringe, black leather, lace and tweed. But somehow, all of these not so nice (maybe even a little naughty?), parts pulled together into something gorgeous, and, really pretty. High waisted skirts and full sleeve minidresses were some of the pieces I favoured most. Dark and dangerous, but elegant all the same.

Yigal Azrouel
The final addition to day one at New York Fashion Week (took awhile to get here, eh?) is Yigal Azrouel. If you read my previous post today you would have read about the drama before the show even started, with former escort Ashley Dupre sitting front row without (gasp!) an invited, much to the designer’s dismay. The whole ordeal resulted in their mutual publicist getting fired and Dubre getting a lot of press. But, the show itself, was even more drama than an uninvited guest. This show was a serious power romp, and I’m so not kidding. It was a really tough collection even though the basic ideas came from pretty ideas, like the idea of a cocktail dress. Dark and romantic, washed out cotton and leather combinations in nearly every colour (scaled down, mind you) created a collection with a lot less layering than Azrouel did in some of his previous collection, however, the layering was still there. My favourites? The oversized fur vest with huge lapels, the studded cropped motocross jacket, and shoulder capelet.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day one, part two

2009-02-19T10:56:00.004-05:00

Costella Tagliapietra
Costello Tagliapietra is more than a mouth full to say, but the duo designers show was ubersimple to watch. Jeffery Costello and Robert Tagliapietra noted that they were sick of hearing about the recession, and, to be honest, it does get to be a little much sometimes. Which is why it’s refreshing to see an all-out glamour collection. The Fall 09 line up was about pure construction. I have never seen pleats looks so great. And with the collection being composed of (nearly) entirely all jersey fabric that the duo helped to create with Ultrasuede, these will be some dresses that I don’t think I’d ever want to get out of, once I’d slipped it on. The collection felt warm and inviting, shades of sage and moss green and bold orange were the hits needed to give this collection the over the top power umph in between all the black, greys, nude, and ivory pieces.

Cushnie et Ochs
Another designer dup, Carly Cushnie and Michele Ochs, for Cushnie et Ochs, focused their Fall 09 collection solely on body consciousness. Super slim silhouettes stomped the runway, and while the colour palette was simplistic and minimal, the marbling effect on much of the fabric made each piece ultra elusive. I wanted most of these pieces straight away. For this collection being only the duo’s second runway show, I’d say we have another top design house making their way, very quickly, to the top. Some of my favourite pieces included the slate grey marble printed minidress, the shiny wet mock neck black minidress with one sleeve sheer (it’s all in the unordinary details, I tell you), the oversized lapel grey blazer, the cut out black tunic top with a full sleeve of silver sequin, and the metallic gold sportswear blazer. Devine.

Davidelfin
David Delfin transported his Fall 09 collection from Milan all the way to New York this year. And while some of his pieces aren’t so much ready-to-wear as they could be (maybe back in Milan?), the span between reality and fantasy was definitely crossed here, which is always something nice to see. It’s liking getting inside the mind of an artist: never actually possible, and quite hard to completely do, but worth trying at every opportunity. The Davidelfin fall 09 collection projected looks for both men and women, and while many of the dresses were stunning, I couldn’t get over the slim cut menswear. Loved it.

Jason Wu

I can’t believe Jason Wu is only twenty six years old and he has already made such a strong mark on the runways of New York, mind you, some people may not have even been able to recall his name had it not been for Michelle Obama wearing one of his chiffon gowns to the inaugural balls. This Fall collection, Wu said, was inspired by fairy tales: pretty, polished princess gowns were his focus. All the ladies dining on Park Avenue would simply adore the pieces in Wu’s collection. I mean, I’m not Park Avenue material, and I still gawk over everything. The only thing I am still peddling in my mind was the choice of such an electric shade of yellow. It was a little hard on the eyes, and I’m just looking from a computer screen. Imagine the addition of the lighting. And to think that Wu is supplying to three times as many retailers this year than last! That means great goods for everyone!

Nicole Miller
Ah yes, Nicole Miller. The reason why Miller has the accomplished career as a designer that she does is because what she creates for women to wear cannot only actually be worn, it can be worn by either myself or my mother: someone who is twenty one and someone who is forty four. The collection is made for women everywhere, at every age. While Miller typically bounces of every shade of the colour wheel, this collection was much darker, with more autumn-ish tones, and held up an extremely sophisticated tone. The geometric prints, coupled with black tights and stunner pumps pulled this collection together. Oh, did I mention Nicole Miller loves vegans too? You may be ogling over the faux leather pieces more than I am. Second oh! Party dresses galore! No need to say you couldn’t find anything in time for New Years 09!

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Style

new york fashion week, day one, part one

2009-02-19T10:04:00.004-05:00

Abaete
February 13th brought with it the first haul of New York’s Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. For my first entry of day one, I bring you Abaete, a collection designed by the French born Laura Poretzky. The twenty seven look collection sauntered the runway with a masculine feel. IN an array of black, hits of grey and a few geometric prints, the collection was just my style. Mostly outfitted in skinny trousers and knee length skirts (complete with black opaque tights), the models carried a demeanour of seriousness with every heavy step they took. Amongst a few ruffles here and there, the collection was fairly straight cut and one dimensional. But what model wouldn`t love showing off their slim figures?

Barbara Tfank
Barbara Tfank’s private show at the Carlyle certainly hit the nail on the head for the twenty-somethings dressers. Her timeless pieces held more of a punch with embroidery and a couple jacquard pieces even though her collection was only fourteen pieces. A mass of jewel toned fabrics, Tfank’s collection for Fall 09 was compromised of knee length and full length dresses (aside from the single pair of trousers – purple, might I add), with a-line cuts and a stark simplicity that does not go unrecognized.

BCBG Max Azria
When I think BCBG Max Azria, I typically think sex appeal to the max, however, with this year’s Fall 09 collection, created by designer couple Max and Lubov, everything was about architecturally based looks, typical of anything made with a bold construction in mind. Silhouettes were sleek and sophisticated, sexiness added only with the open backed jersey dresses. I loved the use of metallic tights under a collection made entirely of dresses, and the high neck lines (in contrast to the slipping backlines), was simply beautiful. Past the ivory shades and a few lilac hues, dark jewel tones were flooding down the runway, emerald, amethyst, deep blues and purples, gold and ruby in velvet and silk alike. Sometimes, even both.

Charlotte Ronson

Charlotte Ronson’s Fall 09 collection, although described at “art-deco based” (as noted by the designer backstage, moments before the show), was held together with leather and studs, a couple of my favourite adornments for Spring 09, which, I am pleased about because I can’t let this ‘80’s rock ‘n roll thing go. Seriously. The collection, masculine in dress, feminine in fit, was packed with menswear suiting and major minidresses, a serious nod to the eighties. Featuring forty one looks, I especially loved the first half, comprised ninety percent of black pieces, but the introduction of plaid and floral prints toward the latter half held my interest to the show. With sister in tow (Samantha DJ’d and Annabelle lent her modelling talent), Charlotte’s show was just another A+ on her record.

Christian Cota
Last, but certainly not least, Christian Cota: Mexican born designer who won the Fashion Groups International’s Rising Star Award a few weeks ago. Cota shook things up a little, deciding to bring his collection a bit more downtown, and far less uptown chic. Although not all of the looks followed these guidelines, the dresses were much shorter then in his previous collection, and there were a few American Sportswear inspired looks as well. My favourite looks derived from the high waisted minis paired with tops of any kind, high or low neck, prints or solid. And who doesn’t love a black opaque tight?

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Style

call girl's coming out.

2009-02-19T09:53:00.002-05:00

Call girl’s coming out
By Derick Chetty
(As seen in The Hamilton Spectator February 19, 2009; c/o the Toronto Star)

"New York’s latest It girl is not a stick figure socialite or one of the countless, faceless teen-drama starlets who’ve been occupying the front row during fashion week.

Ashley Dupre—remember her?—the former escort, whose dalliance with the very much-married Eliot Spitzer pretty much put the kibosh on his career as governor, caused a fracas at New York Fashion Week.

She crashed designer Yigal Azrouel’s fashion show and sat in the front row, causing the designer to come apart at the seams. He denied inviting her—and fired his publicist.

That was just the spark that pile of dry wood needed because nothing beats a woman scorned who has a good publicist. (Dupre and the designer employed the same publicist.)

The 23-year-old Dupre is now firmly in the spotlight, and has since hit other shows—to which she was invited—and has announced her plans for a music career.

According to her interview in WWD, the fashion trade daily, Dupre has musical heavyweight Peter Zizzo behind her. The producer has worked with Canadian songbirds Avril Lavigne and Celine Dion.

Dupre has an album due out next year, so we’ll likely see more of her. She’s working on an autobiography, and her passion for fashions has one edgy fashion magazine interested in featuring her on its cover.

If she pulls all of this off, it will be the best trick she’s turned."

what day was it? oh yeah. the day before it happened.

2009-02-17T16:03:00.005-05:00

Even though Fashion Week didn’t technically start until the 13th, a select few just couldn’t keep it to themselves anymore, and on the 12th, Bibhu Mohapatra, Monique Lhuillier, Peter Som, Rachel Roy and TSE all presented their collection in much more intimate settings.

Bibhu Mohapatra
Bibhu Mohapatra’s eight years at J. Mendel have certainly paid off with his debut collection. I was certainly blown away. Mohapatra’s style is something that I just can’t let go. The elegance mixed with such a hard edge is going to be a trademark that’ll be unmistakeable. The dark earthy tones mixed with black, the diverse selection of fabrics and fits, all built up to a collection beyond measure. I just cannot wait until next season comes when I’ll be seeing more than 21 looks from this man.

Monique Lhuillier
I never get all that disappointed when I find out that Monique Lhuillier is only showing a total of twelve looks for her Fall 09 collection. Specifically, because her looks are typically tailored to glamorous eveningwear, which I knot takes hundreds of hours of work, with all of that hand beaded embellishments and her detail-oriented tailoring. Not to mention the fit on the models; everything was impeccable. Lhuillier’s collection was very Victorian, very romantic, to say the least. There’s wasn’t a single piece I didn’t adore.

Peter Som

What I love about Peter Som is that his collections never get old. And I mean that. His looks always stay fairly youthful and vibrant. And even though I am all about the whole dark, wear mostly black thing, Som’s combination of fabrics, patterns, and colour palettes altogether gave me something slightly amusing to look at. And while I would typically say that most of the combination looks really don’t go together, they clash in a way that can only ever be good. Very wonderfully typical of the New York street scene. Blair Waldorf’s? No luck. This isn’t for you.

Rachel Roy

Rachel Roy has been around the fashion scene for just enough time now to understand where she is coming from as a designer. However, I was fairly displeased with the collection until it vamped up halfway through with the introduction of greys, blue and black. I know, I know, I always go back to black, but the intrusive nature of ivory and pale yellows in fall and winter is, really, too much for me. White in winter, I get. Pale yellow? I thought that’s what spring was for. Needless to say, the dresses were beautiful (I would have changed the colours, though), but the entrance of the darker colour palette brought much more interesting shapes and looks altogether. The twenty eight look collection showed off evening wear and day wear alike; trousers long and short; dresses glamorous and chic. There was something for nearly every purpose, which is why I love Rachel Roy.

TSE

The design house of TSE has reached its twentieth anniversary. And, to celebrate, they are returning to what was once their primary focus as a design house: cashmere. Thank goodness. I’ve been waiting for some great cashmere. The Fall 09 collection was uberminimalistic, with a barely varying colour palette (it was mainly from two far cries of the spectrum: cream and black, with a couple hits of orange and ruby). The collection was all about layering. There was bodysuits upon leggings; unitards and jumpers, with detachable hoods, shawls, and pieces with full feet attached. Although carrying a strange aesthetic, getting back to basics is the first step to getting it right again.

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Style

pre fashion week buzz

2009-02-17T15:50:00.004-05:00

While New York Fashion Week began last Friday, February 13th, and follows through the remainder of this week, there was a few pre-fashion week shows that already stole some buzz before we were even ready to take on New York.

Vera Wang’s Lavender Label premiered on January 30th, following the Men’s Fashion Week. Wang’s lighter priced line, perfect for the recession we’re currently sliding into, was an ensemble of pieces that were perfect for mixing and matching. And while the collection was a little mod for my liking, the array of straight cut knee length skirts grabbed my attention between the mass of geometric prints and bright orange and purple being the pick-me-up colours for the mostly-black collection. I do like the all over style effect of Wang’s Lavender Label, I just always find that the final tailored fit to her self-titled label far surpasses that of the LL.

February 11th, both Jenni Kayne and Lyn Devon showed off their ready-to-wear collections for Fall 2009. Kayne’s collection was about simple classics. Her pieces are easy transitions from night to day, all in slim silhouettes. Included in the collection were coats and jackets with fur sleeves, and some chic evening wear dresses. Also, this collection was the first release of Kayne’s first shoe line for her label. Definitely a must to check out.

Lyn Devon’s Fall 09 collection was a small show of a total of sixteen looks. Similar to Wang’s Lavender Label, the collection was held together mostly by blacks and charcoals, however the colours that were show off were purple and, instead of a too-bright-for-the-eyes orange, a poppy red, which is only sort-of hurting my eyes. For Devon’s first time, this sportswear collection showed the typical American classics, shirtdresses, blazers, tailored trousers and cocktail dresses. In the end, the collection was short, but oh, so sweet.

Here is the best of pre-Fashion Week, well, fashion.

Enjoy!

Vera Wang Lavender Label

Jenni Kayne
Lyn Devon

Much love,
s.

Images c/o Style

Viktor Glemaud, Viktor & Rolf, Yohji Yamamoto & Yves Saint Laurent Fall 09

2009-02-17T12:40:00.003-05:00

Viktor Glemaud

Viktor & Rolf

Yohji Yamamoto

Yves Saint Laurent

Much love,

Images c/o MenStyle

Shipley & Holmes, Trussardi 1911, Veronique Branquinho & Versace Fall 09

2009-02-17T10:48:00.004-05:00

Shipley & Halmos

Trussardi 1911

Veronique Branquinho
Versace

Much love,

Images c/o MenStyle

Rag & Bone, Rick Owens, Robert Geller, Roberto Cavalli & Salvatore Ferragamo Fall 09

2009-02-14T18:20:00.001-05:00

Rag & Bone
Rick Owens

Robert Geller

Roberto Cavalli

Salvatore Ferragamo

Much love,

Images c/o MenStyle

Paul Smith, Prada, Pringle of Scotland & Raf Simons Fall 09

2009-02-14T17:45:00.003-05:00

Paul Smith

Prada

Pringle of Scotland

Raf Simons

Much love,

Images c/o MenStyle

Number (N)ine Fall 09

2009-02-14T17:28:00.003-05:00

I just believe that a collection as dramatic and costume-y as this deserves it's own display.

There were far too many superb designs to combine this with the others.

Much love,

Images c/o MenStyle

Missoni, Moschino & Neil Barrett Fall 09

2009-02-14T17:25:00.003-05:00

Missoni

Moschino

Neil Barrett

Much love,

Images c/o MenStyle

Maison Martin Margiela, Marni & Miharayasuhiro

2009-02-14T17:21:00.002-05:00

Maison Martin Margiela

Marni

Miharayasuhiro

Much love,

Images c/o MenStyle