Dance Moms is Distracting.

It's been so long since I've had a chance to post, but to be fair it's been so long since I've even had time to think about posting. My life plate is getting a little full at the moment: school, work, student government, pinterest, secret endeavers, and the weeist bit of a social life are only leaving me to do my other two favorite pastimes: sleeping and pizza--er, I mean eating. 


Needless to say fashion has been up to some pretty breath taking things recently (as the international fashion weeks are in full swing), but I've been up to some neat things as well. A few weeks ago I got to work behind the scenes of the Nordstrom opening gala fashion show; Next week I'll be styling my very first musician photoshoot; I've started conceptually developing and producing my very own 5 outfit collection, that will compete with those of so many others, to be in my school's fashion show next spring--things are getting a little hectic. 


But with all of these responsibilities, opportunities, projects, and parties (the few I do attend) I've been up to some other things as well...but those things will come out within the next few weeks. 


I intend to be blogging more now, keeping things a little more up to date; ranting about trends, fashion shows, and what that girl was wearing in class yesterday.  Fashion is honestly my life and I wouldn't have it any other way. This blog just gives me an excuse to talk about it. All of it.


In addition: here's some of my favorite pieces from some of the fashion week's in the last month. Enjoy

alice & olivia, spring 2012

christian siriano, spring 2012

rodarte, spring 2012

d&g, spring 2012

fendi, spring 2012

gucci, spring 2012

rachel zoe, spring 2012

luca luca, spring 2012

oscar de la renta, spring 2012

To view more collections visit http://www.style.com/



Until next time,
Lo

Back to School/Fall Trends, Episode 2: Snakeskin

"SNAKESKIN?! Holy TACKY." That's what some of you just thought. Contrary to popular belief (and bad fashion faux pas of the past) snakeskin is having a shining moment. Designers put chic ensembles and elegant evening looks sporting the reptilian print down the runways for fall and I've never seen it done better. 

Chloe', Fall/Winter 2011

Snakeskin can go day or night and can be styled urban or sophisticated; accessories will help to dictate the direction your outfit will take. Snakeskin is definitely more daring than denim, so sport it confidently.  Do be careful, though, because if your snakeskin is in a neon, a spandex, a metallic, or on a minidress...you might look like more of a teenybopper than a trendsetter.

For day:

Paring snakeskin with studs is a combination that immediately was attractive to me. The ruggedness of the two together, paired with the chain necklace and the black ankle boots, creates an edgy look that could only better be accented with a red lip and a rockin' oversized bag. I thought the feather earrings were a nice touch, to add to the animal motif of the look, and the watch was more of a practicality thing while still being cute (reason: being late to class is awkward.)

For night:

When I was styling the outfit for night time, monochromatic automatically seemed the way to go. I wanted to play off the tones in the dress and accentuate them with the sparkle of the beading in the necklace, earrings, and the clutch. I wanted to keep the shoes nude so the look wasn't too busy, and I'd make the lips nude as well to offset the smokey eye that I think would look flawless. Lastly, I could see the nails being a brown/gray color (taupe, if you will) and I think an armor ring would finish off the outfit.

Snakeskin isn't the only animal print in this fall, zebra and leopard prints are going to be popular as well. Get a little wild, but don't get too crazy.

Until next time,

Lo

Fashion Week at Your Fingertips

Fashion week...we've all heard about it. It happens in countries all over the world, at least 2 times a year, and gives fashion designers a chance to present their newest collections to the world (or at least to whoever is in the tent). There are weeks for spring/summer, fall/winter, couture, swim, holiday...and probably even more that I have failed to list. 


For the most part, unless you are looking for it, we (as a mass) remain pretty blind to what is shown on the runways of Milan, Paris, and Berlin. In fact, a lot of us don't even know what's shown in New York. The good news? These shows that are put on all over the world are completely accessible without the insane ticket prices, airfare, or even moving from that position you're sitting in right now. How? Youtube.


Channels all over the 'tube have completely dedicated themselves to showing clips of fashion shows or entire fashion shows that are put in a million different places. These shows are uploaded fairly soon after they are executed and, even better than watching in person, you can watch these shows however many times you want and whenever you want. Who says fashion week has to a be fashion-infatuate dream?


I'll be listing a few names of channels that I depend on for seeing shows, as well as some shows that were just put up (Berlin fashion week just took the stage as well as several swimwear shows). The internet literally puts more of the world at our finger tips EVERY day. Explore it.

(this one was actually from New York's latest fashion week in March)

MBFashionWeek

MercedesBenzTV

[CHIC.TV Fashion]

MBFWNewYork

until next time,

Lo

If I say Couture, you say..?

Couture. Not only does the average person not know how to say it, but most don't even know what it means. From a glance through the pages of fashion magazines, one might assume it's any sort of clothing put out by a designer. In fact, one might assume it's any sort of clothing put out by anyone at all. Though one of those assumptions is more right than the other (I'll let you guess which one) neither of them are correct.

First, lets start with how you SAY it. I've heard it all: kuh-ture, coo-tore, coo-tuur. But let me break it down for you. Say it with me: Cuh-two-or. Obviously when you say it for real you don't break it down into those seemingly over simplified syllables, but you get the gist (or you just butchered it worse than most).  

Now that we can say it, let me explain it a little more. Couture is a shortened version of the term, "Haute Couture." (Hint: Haute does not = hot, haute = hote). So what does THAT mean? Couture pieces are one of a kind pieces that are made of expensive fabrics and usually with the use of fine hand sewing (and lots of it).  The pieces are made with extreme attention to detail, and are sometimes more avant garde (or extravagant) than the typical ready to wear pieces (ready to wear = pieces that can be taken from the runway and worn on the street).  

Designers are only entitled to call themselves couture designers if they have been deemed so by the Chambre de commerce et d'industrie de Paris (in Paris). These designers put out two couture collections a year (along with meeting a few other requirements) and also put out ready to wear collections as well. Couture designs do not have to be soley dresses, or completely overstated. Creative freedom is given to the designers.

Armani Prive', Couture,  Fall 2011

Chanel, Couture, Fall 2011

Dior, Couture, Fall 2011

Dior, Couture, Fall 2011

Giambattista Valli, Couture, Fall 2011

Jean Paul Gaultier, Couture, Fall 2011

Valention, Couture, Fall 2011

Bouchra Jarrar, Couture, Fall 2011

Givenchy, Couture, Fall 2011

Couture is truly fashion as art. If you would like to view more of these collections you can check them out here

Until next time,

Lo

Suit up.

On days like today I can hardly keep my thoughts drifting into that summer frame of mind. So much to look forward to. Sandals, shorts, and most importantly...swimsuits. I've been on a pretty serious hunt for a striking one, but haven't found THE one yet.


That's the thing about swimsuit shopping though--it's definitely one of the more frustrating shopping endevers of the year. You never know exactly what kind of punch winter packed to that once flat stomach and those used-to-be-flawless legs. That is...until you try on that vintage hot pink one piece with all of the rouching up the front.


Not only do you have to find one that suits you and your features, but also one that suits your body type. Here's a few tips to make that a little easier:


HOUR GLASS FIGURE- Go for swimsuits that flaunt what you got, sister. If you're hourglass, chances are you can't go wrong with a bikini or two piece, and one pieces with cut outs will flatter you as well. If you're busty, try the swimsuits with underwire (experiment with different amounts of support).


BOYISH FIGURE- Big benefit of having a boyish figure? The ability to wear (most) bandeau tops. Bandeau tops, especially with detailing like ruffles/rouching/etc give the allusion of a bigger chest (of course a push up type swimsuit is always helpful, as well). Try swimsuits that accentuate your favorite parts of your figure. For example: I am a huge fan of my waist and my collarbones/shoulders, so I think i may try one of those retro, high waisted, two piece pin up girl-esque swimsuits. I'm actually not sure who that style WOULDN'T flatter.


CURVY FIGURE- I'm going to completely reiterate the pin-up girl style swimsuit here, however, if you are insecure about your midsection then I would suggest going for the one piece version. Totally just as cute, but you feel more comfortable. Skirted one pieces can definitely be flattering (if they are not tacky skirts, e.g. kmart style) and so can halter two pieces that have a wider style of cup. (Excessive side boob is never cute)










A little insecure about being in your suit pool side, or while walking down the beach? Easy. Cover ups have recently taken a turn for the better and can accentuate your swimsuit, as well as your body. Thin fabric is the way to go. Maxi dresses work well, too.

As far as your hunt for the perfect swimsuit goes: I wish you good luck, and I send you off with some hopefully helpful information. Namely: where I've seen the cutest ones so far this season.

From L to R: (row 1) Victoria's Secret, Modcloth, (row 2) Betsey Johnson, and Anthropologie. I would even try etsy if you're feeling spunky! There are some very talented swimwear designers (and otherwise) who are in the beginning stages of making their grand debut.

I hope this was helpful!
Questions? comment below.


until next time
Lo




Currently Listening to: Mumford and Sons - Sigh No More

It's Aldo Rage!

So, since about January I've been receiving the spring issues of the magazines that I subscribe to. This is exciting for two reasons. Reason #1: I love getting mail. I am a mail monster. If there is an envelope with my name on it in our mail box, then chances are I don't even make it back into the apartment without carefully tearing (with the caution of a 3 year old opening a Christmas package) the envelope open. Reason #2: I love a good fashion magazine. 


Amidst the spreads about color blocking, 70's chic, and bold lips, though, something other things began to catch my eye. These things were spring ad campaigns, and this year they do not disappoint. A good ad campaign is so important because it's all about catching the magazine reader's eye and directing them to the creative vision of your store/product. If the ad is memorable, chances are they'll remember to pay a visit to your store in pursuit of the cute pair of wedges you had so expertly styled or the dress that made the model look flawless. If your store gives off the same attractive vibes as your ads then chances are you, my friend, can ad one more name to that frequent shoppers list.


I love ads that are spunky, well styled, and fun. On the other hand, I also love ads that are artistic, unexpected, and intriguing. I also love an ad with a good pun, but who doesn't, really?


Recently I've been obsessed with one ad campaign in particular, and that is the ALDO spring campaign. Primary colors and an abundance of vintage styled hair, makeup, and clothes make for fun and eye catching 2 page spreads. See for yourself:

ALDO's spring campaign was very successful in my opinion. I have a had a craving to go there ever since their ads graced the pages of my February issue of NYLON. I look forward to the day I rip them out and stick them on my every growing wall of fashion.

until next time

Lo

now listening to: Local Natives-Gorilla Manor (or my favorite cd in the world)

Top Ten: Colors for Spring

Waking up last week with the satisfying feeling of knowing it was 70 degrees outside was such a refreshing way to wake up after this winter's brutal reign. But for it to have lasted more than a week would, clearly, have been too good to be true. Wind, rain, and gloom have encompassed this postless week for long enough, and I decided now was a great time for a spring pick-me-up post. Some things to look forward to, if you will. Namely: color.

According to Pantone these are the top 10 fashion colors for this spring. These colors were the quintessential colors seen at New York Fashion Week. They will be taking over our favorite stores, makeup counters, and accessory boutiques so might as well pick a few favorites. The colors are bright, exotic, and a definite remedy for the dark browns and blacks that have made up our winter wardrobes. 

I think the coolest thing about these colors is that a lot of them can be mix and matched. Pairing the yellow and purple would complement the two of them well, but putting the orange with the purple would give it an unexpected pop. The 3 neutrals (the brown, the pink, and the gray) are very easy to toss around every day as well. These colors not only will be big in spring, but will be easy to transition into next fall as well.

A combination of these trendy colors, a bold lip, wedges, and a pair of your favorite sunglasses are all you'll need to look drop dead fabulous this spring and summer. 

And believe me, there is nothing dull and dreary about that.

until next time
Lo

currently listening to: Ben Folds & Nick Hornby - Lonely Avenue

Spring Fever

This morning when I stepped out on my balcony I expected to be faced with another morning that was a little to brisk for my taste. What happened instead is that I was suddenly over come with spring fever, and a day that was 75% completed sans cardigan. I got in a little while ago, and I want to say my car thermometer read 60 degrees. Thank you, sweet sweet groundhog, for predicting an early spring this year. I owe you one.

Outfit of the Day

I technically wore this outfit last weekend, but temperatures were pretty similar to how they were today, so I'm posting this guilt free.

Tank top- William Rast for Target. I got this tank top for my birthday from my mom. It was on clearance when we ordered it online, and with target's lack of shipping costs, it was a steal for about $8. It's a light pink color (a  current fave of mine) and made of a thin, slick, soft material. I could look on the tag to be more specific, but it's in hamper land right now, and begging not to be disturbed. I really love this top, and expect to be wearing it often this spring and summer.

Cardigan- Urban Outfitters. I got this cardigan last spring on clearance at urban. It's a really thin material, and a size up from what I normally get so it hits the big baggy notes that I crave every so often. It kept me just warm enough (and offered my hands some shelter in it's pockets) and was easy to store in my purse when it seemed to warm for it.

Jeans- Levi's. Levi's are my holy grail of jeans. Never do they fail me. The only thing I'll wear more than my Levi's this spring is my jeggings...and don't even get me started on those. They are a lighter denim and have a few rips and the perfect stretch. Skinny fit, aka the only jean fit I ever buy, but not to tight. Perfect.

Boots- Lucky Brand. I got these boots for my birthday, and ohhhh my lord do I love them. They are military/work boot style, olive green, lace up, and comfortable as can be. They tops and tongue can be worn up or folded down (depending on the look you are going for). I got mine at Belk, but as far as I know they are still available on Lucky's website, and are available in the green color I have as well as black. They are made very well and I can tell I'll be wearing them for a few years before they give out.

I already know this spring/summer I'll be doing the half tuck I did with my shirt this day. I love the way an outfit looks with a tucked in top, but leaving it untucked makes it look more relaxed...the solution? If you tuck in a bit of your shirt in the front you still get the length in your torso, but the remaining part of the shirt that is left untucked keeps your outfit looking easy going and comfortable. Voila, an easy way to amp up your outfit.

Spring Fling
When it feels as good as it did today outside it is hard for me NOT to drive with my windows down and my music turned up ridiculously high. Here's my driving playlist of the moment:

• Annie waits - Ben Folds
• Howling for You- Black Keys 
• Wagon Wheel-Old Crow Medicine Show
• Calamity Song-The Decemberists
• Dog Days are Over-Florence and the machine 
• All the Pretty Girls -Fun.
• Tight rope-Janelle Monae
• Camera Talk-Local Natives
• Kids-MGMT
• Winter Winds-Mumford and Sons
• Mutiny, I Promise You-The New Pornographers
• Badman-Newton Faulkner
• Little Secret-Passion Pit
• Holiday-Vampire Weekend
• Let's Dance to Joy Division-The Wombats

**click on the link above to hear the whole playlist**


Spring trends I'm Stoked About
According to the magazines, blog posts, youtube videos, and websites I've been reading there is a lot to look forward to this spring, but to narrow down the huge, intimidating list of trends that is going to be enveloping our malls and boutiques within the coming weeks, I'm just going to rant about a couple of my favorite up and comings.


BALLERINA
The ballerina trend is something I've been a fan of since I realized what it entailed: pretty girly dresses, chiffon (aka sheer, my fave), flowy silhouettes, frills, neutral colors, and bodysuits. All of the above are something I crave to wear in the springtime. I love the femininity they bring to the table.

white top-topshop, chiffon skirt-urban outfitters, 

rouched blue dress-topshop 

SIDEBAR: I am a sucker for neutral colors and chiffon, so those will definitely be a huge part in my spring wardrobe.

70'S

 I never hear anything positive about fashion in the 70s. Even when I was in a history of fashion class, the teacher did nothing but grimace through that chapter in the book. This seasons modern take of the 70s style is really intriguing to me. Bold colors, longer hemlines, crochet, and bright patterns made for a delicious spectacle on the runway. I cannot wait to wear rompers, crop tops, and MAYBE even a maxi dress.. but I think we all know about how I feel about those on short people. Either way, whether this spring trend lives in fame or infamy, i'm excited about it.

both the top and dress are from topshop

until next time

Lo

currently listening to: The Avett Brothers Live: Volume 3

Outfit of the Day and Fashion week (Christian Siriano)

So, tonight the ladies and I went out to Chuy's to get our Fiesta on for my big 20 b-day. The verdict: (in the word's of our favorite international traveler, Borat) great success.

Top: I got this Free People top last summer, and I could not be more obsessed with it. It is a flowy sheer top that has a snakeskin type print on it. Pinks, oranges, golds, and purples combine to make a really fun color combination, and the gray lace detailing down the middle does a nice job of adding some physical texture. The neckline is trimmed in gold sequins, and the straps actually do this really cool Y shaped situation in the back. Wear it alllllllll year long. (I wore a fuchsia colored tank top under it, as it is a sheer top and I would prefer my style to be described as sassy, not skanky). 

Jacket: A piece of my roommate's. There is some niiiiice zipper detailing on the pockets that looked good with the trim on the neckline of the top.

Jeggings: I got these back in the fall at Urban Outfitters. They are by the brand BDG and they are really great for jeggings. They actually feel like denim and have sewn on back pockets. Qualities that make jeggings unacceptable: printed on pockets and stitching, are more cotton feeling than denim feeling, and if they are on the commercial for "pajama jeans." 

Shoes: Steve Madden and I have become really close closet friends within recent years. These platform, gold metallic heels are perfect for special occasions and for going out. My toes may have been cold, but the shoes are comfortable and the material they are made of is a really soft, textured kind of leather. They are the perfect amount of glam.

Jewelry: Was, again, just some simple gold chains, and a really nice silver and turquoise ring.

So dinner was completely delicious (mainly the part where we all went at a piece of Tres Leches cake like a pack of wild hyenas) and then Jennifer and I decided to take a quick field trip to the mall so I could spend the MAC giftcard she got me (she knows me altogether to well). After browsing for a good 10 minutes I had my selections for the evening. MAC's lipstick in Snob and Cream Color Base in Shell.

In fashion news..
FASHION WEEK STARTED TODAY IN NEW YORK

I'll admit, though, it's a little hard to get excited about fall color schemes and trends when I am so ready for some sunshine on my skin. Skirts and sandals could not sound ANY better right now (especially with the way I was sliding around on the ice in my heels tonight in the mall parking lot...yikes).


As some of you may know, Christian Siriano (AKA my designer soul mate) got to present his collection today. As always: I am in love. Ever since Project Runway Christian has had a piece of my heart. The show started off (kind of uncharacteristically Christian, in my opinion) with lots of asymmetry, high necklines, neutral colors (blacks, greys, and olive greens), strong silhouettes (masculine with a hint of feminine), legs, dominant collars, and a combination of sheer, shine, and the occasional sparkle. Gold zippers made a reappearance (from last fall's craze) in his collection, and leather seemed to dominate as well. As the show went on the Sirano sass I've come to know and love became more evident with evening gowns that still sported the high necklines, asymmetry, and struture, but there was a lot more texture, femininity (draped details, rose pinks, etc), and some very memorable evening gowns. To see the whole show click here. The verdict: LOVED his collection. Can't wait to see what other designers put down the runway this week.




until next time
Lo






Currently Listening to: The Decemberists - The King is Dead (newest album! So good.)