Friday, March 19, 2010

Blonde Bombshell

So as everyone already knew, the look that has become ubiquitous for Spring hair is the seventies thing, with the long and wavy free-flowing tresses, optional braid on the side, and maybe even a little daisy in there somewhere (combined with lots of earthy denim apparel, breezy sundresses, and floral prints, naturally). But, if you're at all like me and love to dream of Summer and the subsequent trends that follow, here's a little glimpse into our not-so-far future.

That's right. Peroxide blond is back. Now, unless you are:
  1. Already fairly blond-headed or 
  2. You are a super model,
I am not condoning the bleaching of one's hair. At all. Because I'm going to confidently state that not many are able pull off the "bleached look". But you know, if you fit into either of the above categories, and love being right in step with the fashion industry, here's to getting a jump-start on that summer to-do list.
image from fashionising

Bright Future

 After seeing the LED technology incorporated into apparel earlier with the Fairytale Fashions company, and now the Rodarte Fall/Winter 2010 Shoe Collection, it would appear that perhaps the fusing of science and fashion has come full circle, from concept to couture. World-renowned shoe designer Nicholas Kirkwood (based in London) is behind the show-stoppin' stilettos, no doubt catalyzing a soon-to-be revolution for the fashion industry. However, the idea to light up the night with blinking kicks isn't exactly new. One may notice that the glowing heels are somewhat reminiscent of the blinking sneaker grade-school days, but I must say it appears the look of the 'lighted shoe' has come a long way (in terms of style) since then. The dripping wax-like structure of the heel creates the perfect cage to trap the light in, totally playing on the gothic-revival style of Rodarte.
 The front of the heel combines contrasting textures and patterns, creating a crazy collage of color that only heightens the rebel-chic look of the line. But of course Kirkwood manages to feminize the look with a flowing twist of fabric entwining itself around the ankle. Absolutely stunning! Being the ideal designers to capture the ever-sought after edgy femininity, let's hope there's more Mulleavy-Kirkwood collaborations in the future!
images from designboom.com

Monday, March 15, 2010

Michael & Couture

So I apologize for the lateness between posts, but I've been so, so busy with school and art and the Junior Year, yet again. I can't tell you how excited I am for the notoriously slow-paced Senior Year. But on a side note, I had a fabulous time this weekend from my retail therapy shopping spree at Nordstrom's to the Michael Bublé concert. He is divine. I highly recommend seeing him, I got a souvenir shirt (of course, can't turn down apparel!) and I haven't stopped staring at the bag it came in because Michael's face is plastered across the front. I may like it more than the shirt. Maybe.
And even though it was an entire two whole days ago, I know these beauts are probably still stuffed away on some dusty old forgotten Nordstrom's Shoe Sale rack, just waiting for me to return with $250. Wait for me, my L.A.M.B. loves! The smooth feel of the leather, the perfect curvature of the shoe's sole, the delicate heel... Although I find it kind of ridiculous that $250 is the half off sale price. Really? I mean, really.




image from images2.fanpop.com and couture.zappos.com

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Cartier (Car-tee-aye)

For those of us who have the misfortune of living in a relatively couture-less world, and thus have the misfortune of not hearing the names of these fabulous designers everyday, and thus may from time to time pronounce them incorrectly...

 
here's a fabulous cheat-sheet.  
image from teenvogue.com

Best Dressed Oscars 2010

And my Best Dressed List for the 2010 Oscars goes to (drum-roll, please!):
 #1. Cameron Diaz. Absolutely gorgeous, of course I would expect nothing less from one of my utmost  favorite designers, Oscar de la Renta. She simply glows in this strapless beaded gown from the designer's Fall 2010 Collection. I definitely applaud the red lip/ side-swept hair combo too, absolutely channeling the 1940s old school Hollywood glam. Flawless!
 #2. Carey Mulligan. I loved this little Prada number, peppered and embroidered with sharp little tiny objects. The contrast between the soft feminine black silk and these miniature metal weapons was absolutely amazing, and it added definite character to the dress. It was Prada's little way of making someone look rough, dangerous, and rebellious, all while gliding down the red carpet (in an elegant gown). Simply ingenuous.
#3. Kate Winslet. Not only do I love Kate, but once again, I'm just partial to that classic Hollywood glamor. There's just nothing that tops it, it's timeless. And no one can deny, the Yves Saint Laurent company definitely knows their stuff. The 2.5 million dollar Tiffany & Co necklace doesn't hurt, either.
images from justjared.com and e!online

Monday, March 8, 2010

A Fake Phil?

 Am I the only one who noticed the striking resemblance between actress Vera Farmiga's Marchesa 2010 Oscar's gown, and Phillip Lim's gown design for the 2008 Metropolitan Museum Costume Institute Gala (pictured at right with model Chanel Iman, wearing gown)? I thought it looked rather familiar when I saw Ms. Farmiga strolling the red carpet, but not until this morning while flipping through my trusty Teen Vogue Handbook did I realize why the Marchesa gown had evoked such a strong sense of déjà vu. Is it simply a flattering tribute to the world-renowned designer Lim, or is it a downright copy of his work? I'm not sure. I have to say that Lim's design was certainly a unique one, and I had never seen anything quite like it before the gown's existence, or even afterward (until now). Although Marchesa changed Lim's tightly wound swirls into more of a loose, pleated ripple, I still feel that the design is almost identical, right down to the asymmetrical path of the fabric (both on the right side, trickling down from the bust into a full, volumous gathering at the bottom). Both beautiful gowns of course, but I'm just wondering whether or not credit was given where it was deserved. What do you think?
photos from swank and mlive.com

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

2010 Resort Collections

WARNING! If you do not have a sufficient amount of time to drool over each of these photos individually, you may want to read this post in shifts. It is highly suggested, my friends. 

So, originally I was only going to post one or two designers, but when I started researching, clicking, and opening up photos... I just couldn't stop! I posted my ten favorite lines from the Resort Wear selection, so if you think something is missing it's because A) I didn't especially love it, or B) Turns out there's a lot of Resort Collections. And also, if you think this is a lot you should see what I've narrowed it down from.

T h e  D e s i g n e r s :
Designer #1. Brian Reyes
I have to admit, before this year I wasn't especially familiar with this talented young Colombian lad. His fourth year as an independent designer (Reyes previously worked under the Oscar de la Renta label), he is still the new kid on the block. Reyes has most assuredly established himself already, though, with socialites around the world (most notably Jennifer Garner, Kate Hudson, Rachel Bilson, America Ferrera, and Leighton Meester). And with me, of course!


 

 Designer #2. ADAM
Some lovely shifts and cocktail numbers from ADAM, but I didn't want to overload you with too many pics, so again, just the look from the collection that stood out to me. Tons of bib necklaces, though, I saw. So, bibs still in for Summer! And what a perfect Summertime dress this is. I love, love, love the cut of the waistline, and the pairing of it with the large bib necklace and heels. It reminds me of a little girl playing dress up, but in a good way, because it captures the essence of what Summer's really all about, doesn't it?
 
 Designer #3. Collette Dinnigan
 Though not exactly new to the scene, Dinnigan's 20th year in the business sure has been a fruitful one thus far. Her latest collections have showcased her experienced knowledge of fabrics, textures, and patterns, as demonstrated by her Resort Collection with its elegant sheer fabrics and gorgeous detailed prints. I love the last two dresses, too, maybe you notice they're the same one? It's because the dress deserves two spots, it's just that amazing. 
 
 Designer #4. Doo.Ri
Since 2003 this young woman has been making a name for herself in the world of couture, known for her killer draping and willingness to experiment (successfully!). According to New York Style, she was first noticed for the jersey material she could manipulate to perfection, but as you can see, Doo.Ri is certainly more than adequate beyond those boundaries. The draping in Dress 2 is really marvelous I think though, flattering the shape beneath while still retaining volume. And the white one is sporty, sexy, and youthful, another fabulous look for Summer. Three more months!  
 
 Designer #5. Elie Tahari
New favorite! Step aside, Reyes. And it's not just because her name is sort of similar to mine, (which I'm sure was planned, by the way). Not much of a bio needed for Ms. Tahari, I'm going to go ahead and assume, so onto the clothes. I had been thinking lately that sequins were kind of old, usually I get tired of them after New Years when they reach their peak. But Elie definitely made me reconsider, the accent of the shine is just perfect. You just can't go wrong with the glittering, shimmering sequins now! Well, I mean, you can. But I bet in Elie Tahari it'd be really, really hard. The first dress is my new love.
 
 Designer #6. Kate Spade
If you need a bio for Kate Spade then get off of this blog, right now. No, don't! I'm just kidding. You know, education is the key to success. But so, I think I may have found another love. The break from sweet yet solemn neutrals to bright, eye catching, color popping frocks and totes was warmly welcomed. Just look how adorable those ensembles are! I'm fairly confident that if Heaven were for some reason transformed into woven goods, this is exactly what form it would take.
 
 Designer #7. Marc Jacobs
Always fancied his style, always will. It's always been more artsy and a little off than the other labels which spin out classics 24/7, I feel. His take on Resort-Wear is right out of the 40s-50s Glam Era, and I wish I had the hundreds of dollars it would cost to pull off his cutely clashing patterns. Beaded toucans, loud florals, and tiny round eye protection never looked so good. Marc Jacobs is fantastic, as always. Last two are my faves.

 
 Designer #8. Temperley London 
Mostly neutrals again, but I favored the bit of bright pattern they interspersed periodically with the more frequent antique lace look. Phillip Lim 3.1, anyone? Pirate Chic, eh eh? But definitely get out that lace for these next seasons, it's looking to be pretty popular. Love Looks #2 and #4.
P.S. I know they don't have to smile, but this model looks sick to her stomach modeling couture. Let me tell you I wouldn't even be in the picture anymore, I'd be out the door and running down the street with my arms full of sample dresses.
 
 Designer # 9. Thakoon
The designer made famous by First Lady Michelle Obama has hit the big time, and with good reason. His talent is undeniable, and again, echoing a vintage look here. Thakoon's collection was getting rave reviews for the tie-die dying methods on the dresses and shirts, and just the great cuts and fits of the clothes. Overall, a very coherent and strong line. Maybe tie-die will come back this season, I know the similar surf/skate look is sure climbing in the polls.
 
 Designer # 10. Gucci
Although their models are actually attractive, normal-looking you know, the clothes of this fashion house aren't too interesting to me this season. I feel like they're the stereotypical "Haute Couture" clothing, what with the stern lines and sharp angles and all. But sometimes a bit of change is nice, especially when the season of breezy sheers and light, airy fabrics are a necessity. Don't get me wrong, these clothes are fabulous, but I can't say I'm too partial to them in comparison with the others. They're strong though, empowering almost, and that I like. They really are gorgeous.
 
 
Whew! That's a lot of beauty to handle in one day. But it is so worth it. What were your favorites? I have to say I love them all, of course. It's like deciding whether the Chanel Tweed Jacket beats the Armani suit. Can't be too picky when it comes to couture. That being said, does anyone have a few hundred thousand dollars I can borrow?
 photos from fashionising

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

Stale Greenery, But Fresh Mud!

So why is it that I'm just learning of the jade green nail polish trend from Chanel's 2009 Fall line? The nail color that evidently rolled right off the runway (selling out in 40 minutes) onto the well-manicured paws of mega-starlets like Rachel Bilson and Drew Barrymore? I heard nothing of this! I'm going to go ahead and blame it on my then-distracting obsession with the notorious House of Couture's Fall concentration on Russian Royal jewelery and the always fabulous tweed jackets. But really. This is a huge letdown. The 'darker-than-mint but lighter-than-evergreen' tint would have undoubtedly kicked my deep maroon nail lacquer of three months ago to the curb. But alas this was eons ago, practically two whole seasons! It makes me especially distraught, though, because of the latest color Monsieur Lagerfeld has dished out.

 The newest haute nail varnish of the Chanel Spring 2010 Line is a dark beige-gray color, labeled Particuliére, which already started sweeping the streets last month. Now I'm not claiming to know more about fashion than the line that's had well over a century in the business, but isn't that color a little drab? At least for Spring? I mean obviously the alternative (pinks and light reds) wouldn't exactly be groundbreaking for the Season, but who really wants to don a color described by Amizona as "...a putty shade of gray"? It looks like something an elderly woman would wear to Easter Mass. Which, I guess is part of the "Spring Season", but I'm going to go out on a limb here and say that's probably not what Lagerfeld was going for. There's got to be a point where reaching beyond the masses is counter-productive. But being Chanel you can't really go wrong, because in most cases people are buying the name, not just the clothes. All I'm pondering here is, if Guess or DKNY or another label produced this polish, would it have had the same success?
image courtesy of imageshack, fashiontadpole.blogspot.com