Tuesday, May 28, 2013

The Infamous Sale

Well ladies, today is the day. 
The day that only happens twice a year.
The infamous Net A Porter Sale
If any of you are familiar with this sale, you're probably on there right this second. For all the newbies, out there,
Do Not Miss Out!!
With clothes, shoes and accessories from designers like The Row all the way down to J Crew, it's all at least 30% off!
So get out your credit cards and play safe!
Happy Shopping!


Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Miss Dior, I Never Knew You Could Be So Saucy!

Sheer was the appropriate word for this year's Christian Dior Resort 2014 show.
Models walked down in anything from sheer dresses to sheer lace cropped tops.
The underwear effect was also a big hit with a romantic twist to an otherwise revealing look.
With the playful outfits and classic suits, Dior is continuing with their ladylike looks that they are known for.

Christian Dior Resort 2014

Monday, May 20, 2013

The Casual Suit - Chanel Resort 2014

After watching Chanel's Resort 2014 show, there was a common theme in the first few clicks of the show.
For lack of a better term, casual suits.
A pullover top with the common suit lapels and pants. A different take on something that Karl continues to reinvent each season.
With knee pads and paddles accessories, I couldn't help but wonder about the stir Chanel branded paddles would make on the industry. We aren't quite over the hula hoop bags from last season.
Print trends were played up as well as some casual wear that I can only assume will be worn from the sidelines.
With other variations of clothes such as a high-low skirt version of the classic tweed suit and pearls draped on everything except the model's ankles, it looks like Chanel continues to move forward in their own fashion evolution.





Friday, May 17, 2013

Who Ever Said Woman Can't Wear Men's Clothes

 After realizing that the sweaters in my closet are not to my liking anymore, I've decided to go a different route with clothes- shop the men's section.
After looking at the selection on Mr. Porter, I have come up with many solutions to my problem.

Exhibit A-The asymmetrical cardigan - for the downtown girl

http://www.mrporter.com/product/328354
Exhibit B: The Casual Sweater - for the lounge look
http://www.mrporter.com/product/338959

Exhibit C: The Rollneck - for the cozy look


http://www.mrporter.com/product/339023

With these three sweaters, no matter if your male or female, you'll look stylish in your own skin.

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Cross Body Necklaces

 After getting tired of wearing necklaces the same way(around my neck), I've decided to mix it up and wear them different. 
Cross body that is. It's caused quite the stir with people. 
The key is to get a necklace that is
A. Long enough
B. Probably should have the same continuous look such as a strand of pearls(although I am not opposed to having some charms at the end).
It's perfect for a more casual look!



Monday, May 13, 2013

What's So Wrong With A Little Black And Blue?

There are so many magazines and many shows that tell woman how to dress and how not to dress. I, however, am not a fan of these shows because of the box it puts you in. 
One in particular that really haunts me and that's not mixing black and blue together. 
But why?
I've heard things such as you look like a bruise but really what's so wrong with looking like a bruise?
So I thought I would take it to the Internet for some clearance. Cause of course, everything on the Internet is 100% right. Isn't that why you're reading this?


With websites such as GQ giving it a thumbs up, others such as Refinery 29 were giving tips on how to wear the trend. Even Oprah gave some tips on mixing the two. So if Oprah is behind something, you know it's right!
Many of these tips included pairing a denim jacket with a black dress, wearing dark blues such as navy with black and even stating how the two colors look more stylish than a lot of color mixes.
With all this information, how can you not go against the grain of what most people state.
Let the mixing begin!


Sunday, May 12, 2013

Dancing On My Own....Or In My Proenza Schouler's

Contrary to popular belief, I do not own that many shoes. I'm more of a quality shopper rather than quantity. So when I do buy a pair (remember I do have a champagne taste with a beer wallet), I tend to go for ones I can actually move in, not the typical 6" Louboutins.
Which brings me to these beauties- Proenza Schouler from Spring 2012.
With their wood-looking wedge heel and the covered top, these are perfect to go from a busy work day to a night out.

Proenza Schouler Spring 2012



Saturday, May 11, 2013

Lazy Saturday

After coming across this Irving Penn photo from 1950, I couldn't help but think I need a day off. With a little help from the 'Do Not Disturb' button on my phone, I realized I can be this girl! 
In all seriousness though, we all need these lazy days to recharge and get ready for what's ahead. So here's a little inspiration and a tiny reminder to lay around and do nothing!


Irving Penn June 1, 1950

Friday, May 10, 2013

Vivienne Westwood

From her beginnings of making jewelry to eventually dressing the Sex Pistols, Vivienne Westwood has proven to us that punk has always been around and is here to stay.
She started in clothes with a Pirate collection and eventually got others on board with her look.
She has been named British Designer of the Year twice, an award that has been coveted by some of the most influential fashion designers.

Vivienne Westwood

These and many other factors are the reasons why Vivienne Westwood has always marched to the beat on her own drum and why her punk influence is not going anywhere.




Pirate Collection 1981

Thursday, May 9, 2013

Stephen Sprouse

Where do I begin? During this punk week, I have decided to honor a few designers who have ignited the 'punk' aesthetic. 
Stephen Sprouse was one of them.

Stephen Sprouse Dress

Fluorescence colors and graffiti were two things this designer is known for and has had success with. With Andy Warhol as a fan and friend, the designer brought in many of Andy's influences when creating his clothing. He was featured in many department stores but unfortunately could not keep up with the cost and demand of his clothing and eventually had to shut down his business.
For people that did not know him back in his clothing days, you may remember the collaboration he did with Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton for the graffiti handbags.

Stephen Sprouse Collaboration with Louis Vuitton

Stephen Sprouse was a great visionary and brought about a punk trend that no one had done before. A creative talent in his own right, he will definitely go down in history as a true talent of the fashion industry.


Stephen Sprouse


Wednesday, May 8, 2013

A New Age Of Punk- The Not So Punk, Punk Look

While many people at the Met Gala decided to wear the typical punk trends such as spikes, leather and plaids, many opted for a less obvious approach. 
Florals and sheer, girly dresses were also a big hit among many attendees.
Buy why the change? Is this our new way of interpreting or did many just neglect to find their inner punk selves?
For one thing, florals do have a certain appeal and it was back in 2008 when Elle UK did a punk floral shoot. And the MAJORITY of people did wear the appropriate floral dresses. Majority being the key word.
The sheer look was a little more understandable. Most had an almost gothic appeal and than of course the all over mesh dress was uber on point.
So with everyone's different interpretation of this Punk Chaos exhibit, it left the door open for many ideas of future punk looks.




Tuesday, May 7, 2013

One Infamous Element of Punk....Leather

Leather has been a strong element to the punk revolution. It comes in all forms from jackets and shoes to pants and, in the case of Kanye West, skirts.
 It has become as ubiquitous as the white trend or low heels. Pretty soon we'll be seeing people walking down the street in dominatrix outfits. 
And it most definitely can add some edge to a once simple outfit. 
Leather has had a lot more of a presence recently. And you know when leather is a big trend in the summer time, than it's bigger than you could imagine. Anyone brave enough to walk through the city heat with a pair of leather leggings is OK in my book.
So for all the people out there that are intimidated by the punk trend, just add a little leather to your outfit. 

Balmain leather jacket


Sunday, May 5, 2013

A Week Full Of Punk

In keeping with what is going on this week, I was thinking of how I wanted to talk about the new punk exhibit at the Met. But why condense it all into one day? Why not make it a week long of designers, the punk trend and what it really means to be punk.
Stay tune.....



Saturday, May 4, 2013

Subtlety Means Something

Let's face it, everywhere we look, there are woman carrying around logo handbags. With Louis Vuitton and Fendi logo bags out there and growing by the minute, where do we look for a little subtlety?


Next to fragrance, it seems like handbags are the go-to designer fix for people of all classes. As long as they have that logo next to them, they can brag to their friends, co-workers, or whomever will listen to how much they love their bag. And at that point, it almost makes it reasonable to shell over the sometimes thousands of dollars.
But what about something a little more subtle?
Designers like The Row and Celine come out with more discreet handbags that don't need a logo spread all over to get their point across. What happens when that logo is no longer "in" fashion?
Louis Vuitton is probably the biggest offender with the non discreet LV spread across the front and back with easy recognition. Then again, I don't think Louis Vuitton will ever go out of style, at least while Marc is at the helm of the brand.
In a world where a logo is on everything from handbags to notebooks, a little subtlety can go a longer way.


Friday, May 3, 2013

White Out

With this Spring's number one trend being black and white, I've decided to join so many others in what I like to refer to as a white out.
With the majority of my wardrobe being black, I had to really branch out for this one. After purchasing a white blazer and a few tops, my search is complete and just a tad complicated by the fact that it's incredible hard to actually wear white clothing.
One thing I believe that should have been mentioned when purchasing white clothing is not to move in it. Don't eat, drink or engage in any kind of activity. (This actually sounds like the perfect way to lose weight). 
Actually, after thinking it over, white can last you year round, as long as you are not one of those people who doesn't believe in it after Labor Day. 
So join the rest of us with our white out outfits, just remember to not put make up on around it. 
From left to right: Alexander Wang Spring 2013, The Row Spring 2013





Thursday, May 2, 2013

Here's To Hoping For Warmer Weather

After recently receiving these pair of beauty's in the mail, I have been patiently awaiting the day where I actually get to wear them, cue, the weather.
Why does it seem that whenever you really want something to happen, aka warm weather, you never seem to get your wish. 
And to think the groundhog didn't see his shadow....





Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Off Price And Discount- Do They Really Help The Economy?

Being guilty of succumbing to the pull of the off price market, I start to wonder whether they are actually helping the economy. We get excited opening the Alaia handbag we just purchased for 70% off, but what does it do for the industry?
Many people would argue that outlet stores saved the industry from crumbling, while others think it degrades the high end luxury world.
Designers get downgraded when they end up on sale racks for a fraction of the price and it doesn't help someone's logic of "Why would I buy this at full price, I'l just wait for it to go on sale." 
Some outlets don't even offer the same merchandise. It becomes de-spec and treated like the real deal.
The fast fashion retailers get inspired from designer collections and turn around to recreate it for a fast fashion fix for those who are unable to spend $500 on a blouse. 
Are we looking at a short term fix that will only bring the industry down in the long term or are we looking at the next greatest thing?











Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Backs 101

Bringing sexy back or is it bringing sexy backs into fashion?
Proenza Schouler seemed to think so for Fall 2013. With back cut outs on dresses and tops, it seems to be the new way to show skin on otherwise covered up fashion followers. 
Using new textures on previous sellers like the lunch bag, the boys know how to reinvent their products.


Proenza Schouler Fall 2013
Proenza Schouler Fall 2013




Monday, April 29, 2013

Have Street Style Looks Become The New Norm?

As Andre Leon Talley so famously quoted in the documentary, The September Issue, it's bleek street here in America. I must say that I concur.
Street style is something that so famously became the norm years ago. Other bloggers and photographers taking pictures of the show attendees and making the people going to the shows more famous than the actual show itself. 
I think we need to switch it up.


These days you can almost pin point what looks off the runway will fall onto the people outside, but since when has fashion become so predictable?
Isn't that the opposite of what is supposed to happen? 
Maybe that's the old school version of myself talking especially when I still await the next issue of Vogue, Elle or Marie Claire and still hope that a model appears on the cover rather than a celebrity promoting their next movie. 
Maybe this up and coming trend of designers not having an actual runway show will somehow diminish this predictability. 
Here's hoping....









Sunday, April 28, 2013

Lessons in...Grunge


Back in 1992, Marc Jacobs caused quite the stir while showing his collection for Perry Ellis. With plaids, leathers and punk edge, the collection did get him fired from Perry Ellis and led him on his journey to his two namesake labels and one of the most watched shows, Louis Vuitton. 
Not since '92 has a fashion show caused the same kind of controversy in the same looks as Saint Laurent '13. Nothing but changes have occurred since Heidi Slimane took over the brand. Anywhere from changing the name of the label to actually moving the design studio to California, he has shaken up the brand and perhaps the customers. 
With the same plaid type shirts mixing with sheer stockings and short dresses, Heidi is once again reinventing the term 'grunge' and no doubt about it, will probably lead to even bigger things for the designer. 

Marc Jacobs Perry Ellis Collection '92

Heidi Slimane Saint Laurent Collection '13


Saturday, April 27, 2013

When In Doubt- Black It Out

Now I am no stranger to an all black outfit. I actually get many comments about needing some color in my wardrobe but what's so wrong with all black?
For starters, anything goes with it. If you wear an all purple or all red outfit, depending on the actual pieces, it may look poorly put together but with black this rarely occurs.
Some misconceptions of black clothing are as follows:
1. No, I do not dress goth, not that there's anything wrong with that
2. No, it's not for religious reasons, not that there's anything wrong with that
Also, you can easily hide stains. I've recently discovered this with an all white blazer and how you basically should not move at all. Just sitting perched on a chair will suffice. Sorry all-back to the topic at hand.
Last but not least, black is probably the most chic color and I hate using the word chic. That's how chic it is.
So follow my lead ladies, put down that white, red or any other color outfit and put some black into it.







Wednesday, April 24, 2013

How Low Can You Go?

Once upon a time, probably two years ago, shoes were at their highest. By that I mean height. 
With celebrities like Lady GaGa and Nicki Minaj walking around in 7+ inch heels, everyone was drinking the cool aid. So this new discovery of lower heels, and the fact that they have been recurring over a couple of seasons, it seems as if the tides are starting to turn. The realism is setting in and people are starting to realize that longevity isn't necessarily a bad thing. 
Designers from Valentino to Miu Miu created their own unique versions of the kitten heel for Spring 2013. And we can't forget about Manolo Blahnik, who surely has a pair or two in his collections. 
So do what I'm doing and save up your pennies and cab fare and trade it in for some kitten heels. After all, what good are they to show off if they're stuck in a cab.






Tuesday, April 23, 2013

5 Finger Punch

There's usually one trend or piece that sweeps the runway and has everyone in it's path lusting after it. 
This season was the Balenciaga rings. 
Now with Nicolas Ghesquiere being famous for anything of luxury and trend right, there was no surprise that he came up with the smallest, yet one of the biggest trends for the season.
These gold rings came on every finger of models such as Liya Kebede and Tilda Lindstam. Some walked down with them stacked between the solid gold and open versions. Others just sported the open version for a less punk approach. In some cases, these rings went as far as completely transforming a quiet, reserved look into one of edge.
If you can find/afford these beautiful rings, I highly recommend them. 

Balenciaga Spring 2013

Monday, April 22, 2013

Fashion And Why It's The Worst Word In The Dictionary

Over the years that I have been interested in this billion dollar business of fashion, me however, never having any part of that money because I'm always shopping, I have come across some things that are stereotypical in our world.
1. Just because you are interested or work in fashion does not mean you are a snob. I have run into some people who automatically think this but they couldn't be further from the truth.
2. Just because I like fashion does not mean I am unable to have an intelligent conversation about anything else.
3. Just because I went to school for fashion does not mean I am dumb and unable to take "real" college classes.
4. Just because I do not typically shop at fast fashion retailers, also, does not make me a snob.
Even hearing myself tell people about this fashion blog, I feel the thoughts circling in their heads. It's time to stop the harsh thoughts of this word. Especially since everyone wears clothes and shoes and has ultimately been passed down from designer to discount store. So the next time someone has the word 'fashion' or anything about that world in a conversation, stop and take a step back at what you are really talking bad about. The answer will probably lead back to yourself.


Sunday, April 21, 2013

What Are You Supposed To Do With Feathers?....Wear Them Duhh

We've seen them many times before. Whether you are wearing them to a dinner or just around the house, feathers have made yet another come back on the runway.


At Erdem, they showed up around the hem of skirts and all over skirts and dresses, even feather collars.
At Dries, feathers looked like they were growing right out of the fabric on coats and dresses. 
At Dsquared, they were streaming out of evening dress.
And amongst Pucci's 70's vibe, Peter managed to have them coming off of sheer tops.
So whether you are a fan of feathers or not, the verdict is in. Feathers are back again so strap yourself in for the ride.



Saturday, April 20, 2013

Everyone Look At Me Row!


I recently received these beauties in the mail thanks to the wonderful world of online shopping. 
Now besides the fact that these sunglasses have leather arms and comes from a brand known for it's luxury items, the box it comes in is made entirely of leather. 
Kudos to the twins for really knowing how to market and enhance their luxury products.



Friday, April 19, 2013

Take Me To Your Leader...Cough Cough Erdem Cough Cough

There are constantly new shapes of sunglasses coming out. Cat eye, exaggerated eye, round Lennon type but what about alien eye?
After watching the Erdem show for Fall 2013, this is what I saw.
Models walking down wearing feathers, furs and sheer little numbers that were pretty usual for this season. However, when a little red, brocade number came walking down, all bets were off.
The model's glasses can only be described as alien shaped eyes. Yes, you could probably call them a very exaggerated cat eye but let's be real.
Whether or not you believe in these little creatures that are on other planets, let the lesson be learned. Alien eyes are coming out and no one will be able to discount that.


Thursday, April 18, 2013

That's 70's Show


It was quite refreshing seeing something new on the runway this past season.
With all the changes going on at Saint Laurent, this little gem came out of the new creative direction of Heidi Slimane and I must say, I can't wait to see more.






Wednesday, April 17, 2013

It's The Little Things That Count

With all the beautiful pieces of clothing strutting down the runway, I feel I need to take a step back and really acknowledge the other side.
The jewelry side.
Let's not forget that jewelry essentially can make or break a good outfit. It can easily change your style going from sweet with a brooch to edgy with some leather and studs.
Whether you end up with just a pendent or stacks of bangles, you automatically come across more stylish than before.


Tuesday, April 16, 2013

A Hop, Skip, And Jump Away From Shoes

fash.ion tease [fash-uh-n-teez]
noun 
1.When I go to a store and see the most beautiful pair of shoes, yet they don't have my size.
2.When I order a pair of shoes offline, yet they do not fit
3.When I can't find that new bag from the Fall runway show

Definition 2 unfortunately happened to me recently with a pair of Manolos.
With this in between period of wearing shorts one day and a coat the next, my mission for some new shoes brought me to a pair of classics. Now I'm sure many of you have heard of the famous 'BB' pumps by Manolo Blahniks. A simple pair that could work in all weather conditions. These specifically not so much in the rain or snow because of the suede. 
These black beauties were the answers to my prayers so I went against what every financial advisor would say and bought them.
After a week of waiting, alas, they finally arrived. 
I opened them eagerly waiting to see the suede and then it happened. Patent leather happened that is. OK, just a mis-understanding I told myself. I'll just make sure these fit and return for suede. 
Easier said than done. My foot was about two sizes too small. And for those out there who suffer the same problem of your foot being a child's size- you all feel my pain. 
So I'm currently on the look out. Size 4 here I come.



Monday, April 15, 2013

Why Has Quantity Become More Important Than Quality?

Looking at these past runway shows, I couldn't help but notice the amount of texture being use. Furs, leathers, even some pony skin were presented but how will this translate in retailers?
The fast fashion retailers will no doubt take them and translate or go so far as to copy these designs to fit into a price point. And we as consumers will no doubt buy it.
Why is it that we are choosing quantity over quality?
Is it "keeping up with the Jones" where we need to wear a different outfit every day and every time we go out just to compete with ourselves? 
We should be looking at the longevity of items, not asking ourselves how many washes do you think we can get out of this $10 top. 
In a world filled with things so fast paced that you are already behind while reading this post, quality has taken a back seat.




Saturday, April 13, 2013

Retail - Where Is It Heading?

Recently I read an article entitled 'The Future of Retail' and it really struck a nerve. With the generation of new shoppers making their rounds with the I-want-it-now mentality, retail will need to make some changes to keep up. 
First thought: Stores are starting to use iPads to help customer find merchandise and check out. New technologies are coming out one after the other to help the customer, their needs and to stay ahead of every other retailer out there. (This clearly isn't an original thought, but I thought it should be mentioned)
Second thought: Retailers should never be wishing other retailers to go out of business. It only makes their own future less than bright. A little healthy competitive never hurt anyone.
Third thought: Stores need to educate the customers! It's up to the retailers to deliver the right merchandise to their customers. Customers leave it to retailers to weed through all the bad to deliver the good and in return, stores have a loyal listener.
With retailers really needing every customer they can get these days, the need to turn around is imperative.




Friday, April 12, 2013

Wearing Your Heart On Your Sleeve And Grommets On Your Feet

Adding a bit of rock and roll was the theme to this season's Burberry Prorsum collection. Christopher Bailey sent models down the runway in the classic trenches with a mix of grommets. Whether you wanted them on your clothes, shoes or handbags, you'll be extra covered this season. 
A new print showed up as well in the shape of hearts. Different animal prints made an appearance, one even came in the form of metal plates fastened over the coat.
Fringe was a big factor as well with leather skirts and handbags. 
Leave it to Christopher to reinvent a classic every season.





Thursday, April 11, 2013

What To Wear To Bed....And I Don't Mean Pajamas

After reading an article in Harper's Bazaar about Carine Roitfeld, I picked up a habit that I feel I need to share. 
Wearing perfume to bed. 
Whether you are wearing Chanel, Dolce or Marc, we meaning women, always make a point to wear these scents during the day, but why not adopt a night time spritz?
Wearing perfume has been known to relax and or make people more happy by enhancing their mood, so why not spray a familiar smell to relax you into sleep?
Marilyn Monroe once famously quoted "What do I wear to bed, why Chanel No. 5 of course."
With all the the stress of jobs and families, why not take some extra measures to feel and smell good 24/7.






Wednesday, April 10, 2013

All In The Details


With designers being more and more careful with what they put down the runway, the trends and outrageousness, which was what made fashions shows so appealing, is starting to disappear. 
That wasn't necessarily the case at Christian Dior and Dries Van Noten.
At Christian Dior, it all started with an elegant, strapless, white dress with features of a woman's face and flowers underneath. It continued with the same prints on more pieces and even featured a shoe printed handbag.
At Dries Van Noten, Dries sent down tailored, classic pieces with brightly colored embroidery and intricate designs.
No matter what happens with the economy, these two designers are clearly staying true to themselves and their customers.






Tuesday, April 9, 2013

When Did Talking About How Many Shoes Become So Taboo?

We, as a society, talk about everything under the sun from plastic surgery to what the best skin creams are, but when was it not acceptable to ask about shoes? 
Asking how many shoes we own has become the new taboo.
It's become equivalent to asking how much money we make. I think I can speak for most women when I say that shoes are oh so important. Simple as that.
We will spend hundreds of dollars on a pair of shoes to make up for that bad day at work or that relationship that ended, so is it the fact that we are embarrassed to admit how much we've spent? 
We shouldn't be pulling a Seinfeld and judging each other on whether we just bought a pair of Boticelli's.
  Just start embracing the fact that we might just all be shop-a-holics and shout it off the rooftops. I am a shoe-a-holic and I'm not afraid to admit it!