Sunday, June 29, 2014

TREND ALERT: Playing with Proportions

If you follow my blog you know the 'oversized' silhouette isn't new however, it is more prevalent.  For fall 2014 we see more designers/labels adapting the trend and in some cases expanding it.  At Acne Studios we saw the removal of darts/seaming in the bodice, lending a boxier look.  Phillip Lim gave us a dropped armhole seam for an exaggerated/rounder shoulder.  Wide leg trousers, large gauge knits, exaggerated lapels you name it we saw it.  This growing trend gives an easy/relaxed element to dressing so jump on board and add it to your fall wardrobe now.
 Acne Studios
 3.1 Phillip Lim
 Celine
 Jonathan Saunders
 Stella McCartney
The Row

Thursday, June 26, 2014

ACCESSORY SPOTLIGHT: Lanvin Sugar Bag

The Lanvin 'sugar' bag is spreading through the fashionista community like wild fire.  I can guarantee that this will be one of the most seen and talked about bags of the season. The sugar bag can be spotted on industry insiders, influencers, and celebrities.  In the past few seasons Lanvin's accessories have seen little success, not necessarily due to design but lack of awareness.  So this shout out goes to the Lanvin public relations team; they've put their strategy and placement skills to good use.  The sugar bag is already sold-out at Net-a-Porter.  The bag features a flap closure with chain strap.  Prices start at $1,990 depending on variations, and is available at www.lanvin.com and other fine retailers.  Go get it now.



CURRENT OBSESION: Bvlgari Tubogas

Bvlgari needs no introduction/background information.  The fine jewelery company has been around for 130 years, if you don't know the label by now I can't help you.  I can however, help you with your next fashion investment. That of course would be a 'tubogas' piece from Bvlgari, you will receive a high return on this investment every time.  The 'tubogas' is a handmade, flexible/elastic band (available in a variety of metals/finishes depending on the time of purchase) made famous by Bvlgari.  I have seen rings and necklaces floating around online from this collection, currently there is only a variety of bracelets and watches available at www.us.bulgari.com. 




TBT: Balenciaga Fall 2006

Today's throw-back-thursday edition comes to you courtesy Balenciaga Fall 2006.  An amazing collection from Ghesquière featuring rounded shoulders, stand away collars, pleated skirts and those amazing riding hats and platform booties.  Enjoy reminiscing

Monday, June 23, 2014

LABEL LOVE: Adam Selman

Adam Selman under his namesake label showed his first collection for SS14 in September, his second collection debuted in February and since has become a bonafide 'one-to-watch'. I always find it interesting to watch a new designer come on the scene; in Selman's case I found his first collection cool and interesting enough to keep me on the line.  When he showed for Fall 2014 I was officially hooked.  The 18 looks from the collection can be summarized as 'American sportswear with an edge', meaning classic pieces/silhouettes with an unexpected twist and sporty pieces such as a varsity jacket with luxe detailing like leather.  More importantly, unlike many newcomers who try to do too much too fast, Selman stayed focused presenting a cohesive collection with a strong point-of-view.

However you describe it Adam Selman definitely has an 'It' factor.  The designer''s pieces can be found at Opening Ceremony and Browns of London.

Sunday, June 22, 2014

The Work Bag

When it comes to handbags I have pretty high standards and strict guidelines; quality, style, function, etc.  So it's no surprise that many contemporary/bridge-line designers/brands fail to make the cut.  Apparently, I'm not the only one with these standards as we see new designers and brands every year trying to make it in this market only to fail after a few seasons or so.

With that said, let's shift to the contemporary designers that are succeeding and have made the cut.  Below are my favorite bags that are reasonably priced and have style and quality.  Coincidentally, they all just happen to be great 'every-day'/'work' bags and are worth investing in.

Rebecca Minkoff, Avery Tote, $345 available at www.shopbop.com



 Marc by Marc Jacobs, Deconsrtucted Laura Tote, $548 available at www.shopbop.com
Milly, Logan Large Tote, $425 available at www.shopbop.com

Friday, June 20, 2014

Summer Simplicity

K.I.S.S....Keep It Simple Stupid: I heard this saying many years back and I just never forgot it.  Simple is usually not a word I use in my fashion vocabulary, but with summer only a day away it makes complete sense.  As the temperatures rise  'cool' and 'comfortable' seem to be the major theme when getting dressed each day. A crisp light-weight cotton button up shirt and denim shorts is a perfect summer uniform.  Add personality and style by adding chic accessories.  To create your simple summer uniform I suggest checking out J.Crew, Ralph Lauren, and GAP.  Happy shopping.

Fashion Sketch

My sketch of the day....

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Louis Vuitton: Petite Malle

One of the most talked about news stories of the year in terms of fashion, was that of Nicolas Ghesquière taking the helm at Louis Vuitton.  I think we've all heard enough of the chatter on this topic, so let's move on to the best part; the results.  Ghesquière definitely did his fans and cult following proud.  The designer drew on the LV heritage of being the premiere luggage company; enter the Petite Malle or miniature trunk.  The Petite Malle which comes in several variations and can be worn with a shoulder strap or as a clutch, has already been dubbed the 'IT' bag of the season. 

TBT: Gucci Fall 2008

In the spirit of 'throw-back-Thursday' I thought I would highlight one of my favorite Frida Giannini collections for Gucci.  Remember the brocade, fringe, studs, chains and sash belts that evoked that bohemian/rock-and-roll feel?  Fond fashion memories, enjoy...

Tuesday, June 17, 2014

FRUGAL FASHION: Kenneth Jay Lane

Kenneth Jay Lane launched his costume jewelry brand in 1963.  Since then his pieces have been worn by celebrities, royalty, politicians and fashion girls alike.  It's one of those 'under-the-radar' type brands that people just know about.  The main reason I felt compelled to spotlight the label is the affordable luxury appeal it has.  Most of the pieces are made in the USA, feature luxe detailing like gold plating and range from $40-$900 depending on the piece.  On a recent shopping trip around the city I noticed a major gap in this market when it comes to costume jewelry; I saw very cheap pieces that were $10 and would probably tarnish and break within a weeks time, or very expensive pieces upwards of $1000.  So for those of you who have had a similar shopping experience , check out Kenneth Jay Lane jewelry available at saks.com, shopbop.com, net-a-porter.com, and other fine online retailers.  And while you're shopping I recommend my favorite pieces, the KJL signature enamel/gold plated animal bangles; funky yet chic.

 Gold Plated Pendant Necklace, $40 www.net-a-porter.com
 Knotted Pendant Necklace, $215 www.neimanmarcus.com
Double Leopard Head Bangle, $198 www.shopbop.com