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

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....

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

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

Spring Cleaning....Yet Again

Some people associate spring cleaning with getting rid of clutter and things they just don't have any use for. I, on the other hand, associate this phrase with moving clothing to different closets to expand my wardrobe. 

Why do we even need to get rid of any clothing in our closet? Longer/shorter pants may help us get through next Fall and holes in shirts might be the next trend. Hello Mean Girls! 

And with all this talk about how to help the environment, holding onto them till the next time they become popular doesn't sound like such a bad idea.

So ladies, get prepared. Go out and buy a collapsable rack and start expanding your closet!

I must say, with tank tops, blouses and a cape or two thrown in the mix, I am thoroughly ready for warmer weather.

Saint Laurent Fall 2013

Heidi Slimane brought a bit of 90's grunge to the anticipated Saint Laurent show this Fall. 

With biker boots, sheer stockings, dresses and plaid shirts to cover up, the runway transcended to a place that many have not been able to pull off since Marc Jacobs's infamous grunge collection at Perry Ellis in '92. 

Since the collection debuted, it's been receiving mixed reviews over it's very casual appearance, but maybe it's just what we all needed.

Something to shake up the runway and enter a new evolution of dressing in what we want, something that isn't necessary the "norm."

Whether you are a fan of this or not, I'm sure Heidi will have plenty of tricks up his sleeve to satisfy even the classic girl in you.

Stay tuned. 

What's Wrong With A Little Toe Cleavage?

After watching what could have been the most anticipated show of the Fall 2013 season, a new trend may have been secretly emerging for about a year already, toe cleavage.

It all started when I bought a pair of Manolo Blahniks in Spring 2012 which I was surprised to discover had some toe cleavage going on. When I first tried them on, I was a little perplexed. 

"Was this what the world was coming to?"

After trying them on a few times, I decided to keep and love them. Fast track almost a year and what do I see on Balenciaga's runway? Toe cleavage galore!

Just Alexander's way to kick off his first show with a trend that will bound to be circulating the fashion world.

Balenciaga Fall 2013

Manolo Blahnik Spring 2012

     

Where Did All The Good Clothes Go?

Constantly being on the look out for the next best thing in fashion, I was finding myself bored. After passing the same sample sale building every week, but never having enough courage to enter, I relinquished and stepped in. Now, I am as far from an impulse shopper as there can be. I can't stand rifling through racks packed with clothing hoping to find one piece that I may like. And let's be realistic, there are two kinds of shoppers, people willing to do sample sales and people not willing to do sample sales. I was so far in the latter. With only having experience as far as watching the crowds in movies and on TV, I decided to branch out.

After entering the sale and handing over everything short of my birth certificate, I was left with my wallet, phone, a little less dignity and about 100 racks of mangled clothes left by the hoards of people trying to get discounts. After walking up and down the aisles questions such as "How do people have the patience?" or "Is this really worth it?" started filling my head. And finally after surveying the lines streaming out of the dressing room, I felt too defeated to look through any longer and left. 

With people being as cautious as ever with their spending now a days, this apparently was where everyone was shopping. Trying to get in as many designer purchases as their wallets would allow, but is it worth the hassle? Are we really looking at the quality of the clothes or just reaching for the designer label and size? Is this top really my style or is this a distraction until the right piece comes along? And with designers being less than trendy on the runways these days, will future sales look the same or will they eventually filter out because no retailer or designer wants to have the wrong item on their floor?

 Are these sales really getting people back into their old spending habits and possibly stimulating the economy?

Perhaps this is where we went wrong. 

Who Ever Said Wonder Woman Wasn't In Style?

Looking back at all the super heros that graced the many comics and fought to protect our precious earth, I feel a need to tribute one in particular, Wonder Woman. 

Without this woman, we wouldn't have body suits, big Jersey girl hair, a tiara, and of course the infamous cuffs. So I decided to take a page from Wonder Woman herself. 

Who knows, maybe they'll give me superhuman powers too.

Putting On My Grown Up Pants

After making many excuses as to why I am still wearing leggings with everything, I've decided to make a conscious effort to stop cold turkey. 

The fact that one pair of boots I own only works with leggings and the comfort factor are no longer going to haunt me.

Since the 80's, people have been sporting these little gems and it seems to have turned into a daily spectacle. Everyone from the age of 5 to 80 has been seen wearing them and I think it's time we all grew out of our 80's and child-like self into some grown up pants. 

With the endless amounts of different pants out there, there is really no need to continue this hate/love relationship anymore. 

See you leggings, we had a good run.

When Is Early Too Early?

(**Attention, do not read if you are a trendy shopper)

After watching the Fall '13 fashion shows and vetoing everything in my closet for next season, when is it too early to buy fall fashion? 

From a money standpoint it's right on time. The Fall '12 clothes are on sale, with discounts getting higher everyday.

From a trend standpoint, not too much unless you happen to have a pair of Prabal Gurung knee high lace up leather boots in your closet. 

With temperatures still in the 40's and 50's, at least in the northeast, maybe it's time to start trying the trends before they even hit the stores. And isn't that what makes someone trendy in the first place?

Photo by style.com

Back to Basics

This sheer tank is the answers to all my prayers. With its silk trim and basic silhouette, it breaks the barrier between the everyday tank and one you live your life in.