Paris Fashion Week Spring 2013
J’adore Paris!
There is no city quite like Paris and no fashion is quite like Parisian fashion. I adore many cultures and cities and designers, but there’s just something about Paris that you can’t forget.
Valentino:
Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli have consistently created lovely collections since taking over from Mr. Valentino himself – Lots of dresses, fabulous splashes of classic Valentino red, and red carpet ready gowns.
Leather, velvet, silk, chiffon, lace, satin, and eyelet all made their way down the runway – Along with the occasion statement coat and jumpsuit. My favorite look was the gold brocade coat-dress that Hanne Gaby Odiele wore down the catwalk – Tres chic!
Chanel:
The Chanel show is always a dramatic, eclectic spectacle and this season was no different with solar panels, turbines, and wind farm-like backdrops.
This collection included everything from hula hoop handbags, stark black & white, youthful polka dots, bright jewel tones, traditional florals, 80’s style fingerless gloves, denim, rompers, suits, wide-brimmed hats, and strappy wedges. I especially liked the chunky pearl bracelets & necklaces, the polka-dotted strapless dress, and the cute Dorothy-inspired blue & white gingham.
Alexander McQueen:
The McQueen show is always something to look forward to with eye-catching, one-of-a-kind makeup, backgrounds, clothing, and accessories. No other designer can come close to the types of shows that Lee McQueen – And now Sarah Burton – Put on.
This season’s collection had an S&M beekeeper type of vibe with safari-style netting covered hats, bustiers, thigh-high stockings, harnesses & corsets, bustles, wide belts, and bee, wasp, and honeycomb prints. Excessive, rich, over-the-top, and utterly stunning.
Miu Miu:
Denim, interesting fabrics & textures, moody prints, and a mixture of silhouettes and lengths all gave the Miu Miu collection a fun but grown-up feel.
I love classic workwear style pieces so this collection was right up my alley. I adored the pencil skirts and sleek sheath dresses, and the retro vibe was to die for with killer furs, boat neck tops, visible pin-up inspired bustiers, leather gloves, slim pocketbooks, and long, demure jackets. J’adore!
Lanvin:
“Deconstructed classicism” was the theme and it came to life in sleek separates and dresses done up in black & white, bold, vibrant jewel tones, and silky neutrals.
The collection was sleek and sexy, the pieces modern and wearable. The embellished prints were quite eye-catching but the sleek pieces in navy, black & white stole the show in my opinion. All of the looks above are amazing – I would wear them anytime, anywhere!
Yves Saint Laurent:
New name – Saint Laurent – retro vibe. The 70’s were back at YSL with leather, suede, fringe, wide-brimmed hats, and maxi lengths all evoking classic Yves.
The details of this collection were what caught my attention – The slim, cropped pants, the white piping on blazers, the patent t-trap heels, oversized bows at the neck, and opera-length gloves. I especially liked the pants looks and shimmering, two-toned caplet was the piece at the top of my Must Have list!
Givenchy:
While the theme may have been the same, Riccardo Tisci’s sedated and minimal interpretation of Catholicism was a far cry from the extravagant opulence of the Fall 2012 Dolce & Gabbana show at Milan Fashion Week.
The pieces may have been stark – Done up in mostly black & white with severe cuts – But they were still dramatic and eye-catching. I adored the black & white frocks, the flattering tunic-vests, the subtle ruffles, and the thick metallic chokers.
Stella McCartney:
The Stella show was bold in both color and silhouette – Her usual oversized, boy-meets-girl style got spiced up with wrap dresses, jumpsuits, and racerback tops.
The suits and the minimalistic pieces are always my favorite – Though the patchwork prints and cheerleader skirts last season proved that she’s got more up her sleeve. The safari-style tops were cute and versatile and the green she showed was right up my alley!
Louis Vuitton:
The LV collection was awash in checkered patterns, bright hues, and in a fun change of pace Mr. Jacobs had all of his models strut their stuff down the runway in pairs.
The mod feeling to the show was modernized by the eye-catching prints. The accessories were cute but minimally applied – Bow adorned headbands, checkered flats, and small patterned daybags. Fun, flirty, and oh-so-wearable. Just what Marc Jacobs does best!
Chloe:
The Chloe collection was primarily black and white with some splashes of burnt orange and fleshy pink throw in for good measure. Very French. Very feminine. Very Sweet.
The silhouettes ranged from oversized and exaggerated to romantic and womanly. While the colors, fabrics, and prints ran the gamut from black & white velvet to salmon stripes to sheer purple ruffles.
Balmain:
The Balmain collection brought to mind the 90’s with power suits, big shoulders, loud prints, thick belts, and plunging necklines. All with a Parisian, Balmain spin on them.
Stripes & checkers, bold yellow, oversized hoop earrings, metallic accessories, midriff baring tops, denim, and oversized blazers all had me checking the models faces to see if Cindy, Linda, Naomi, or Christy were there.
Christian Dior:
Raf’s debut collection for Dior was full of dichotomies – Stark but romantic, minimal but dramatic. He played with colors, prints, lengths, and silhouettes while still presenting a very Dior collection.
The suits and coat-dresses were my favorite, they came in different cuts and lengths, but were utterly chic and utterly timeless. The kinds of pieces that you invest in and wear for the rest of your life.
Sources: Style.com, Fashionologie, The Stylist, & Tom & Lorenzo
Previous Paris Fashion Week Collections: Paris Fashion Week Fall 2012, Paris Fashion Week Fall 2012 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion, Paris Fashion Week Spring 2012 Part I, Paris Fashion Week Spring 2012 – Part II, and Paris Fashion Week Spring 2012 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion.
Additional reviews, photographs, shows, and videos: Raf Simons, Hedi Slimane and the Tectonic Shifts of the Paris Fashion Establishment from Business Of Fashion, FabSugar’s Paris Fashion Week Diary, Precious Details from The Man Repeller, and Derek Blasberg’s A Photo Diary From Paris Fashion Week.
Which Paris Fashion Week show was your favorite? Do you like the classic, Paris Fashion Week institutions like Chanel and Valentino best or newer, more modern houses like Chloe and Alexander McQueen?
Milan Fashion Week Spring 2013
I adore the designers who show at Milan Fashion Week – The clothes are inevitably dramatic, womanly, and sexy sexy sexy. This season was no exception, the collections shown were color, extravagant, and downright spectacular.
Versace:
The Versace woman is never afraid to show some skin and this Spring she’ll really be putting her fabulous figure on display in an assortment of mini skirts, dresses, and shorts in mesh, nude lace, and sheer fabrics.
Low slung belts, studded cross-body bags, midriff baring tops, and knee-high gladiator sandal-boot hybrids were the accessories de jour, all in blacks, nudes, and vibrant Spring colors. I especially liked the sleeveless shift dresses and the studded belts which added a dash of rock n’ roll to the looks.
Salvatore Ferragamo:
Leather and skins were highly featured at the Ferragamo show, and while other designers showed flowy silhouettes, bright colors, and prints & florals, Ferragamo was structured and tailored.
The black, white & nude collection included fabulous outerwear, slim pants, lacing, metallics, lace, mesh fabrics, snake-skin, boots, and studs, buckles & grommets.
Alberta Ferretti:
Delicate. Ladylike. Romantic. Those are all words that I usually associate with Alberta Ferretti and this Spring collection is no different. I might even add dreamy this season.
Between the beading, shimmering, feathers, lace, and wet-looking slinky fabrics this collection was a treat for the senses, you wanted to reach out and touch all the aquatic-inspired designs!
Prada:
‘Dramatic’ and ‘florals’ may not seem like they are two concepts that go together, but at Prada the dark, moody hues made the Japanese-inspired florals really pop.
From red poppies to black & white dandelion silhouettes, these florals were modern and dramatic rather than your usual hippie-inspired, Spring-appropriate florals.
Fendi:
Printed and colorblocked separates, dresses, and outerwear marched down the Fendi runway in colors from black & white to yellow, brown, and blue.
While there were a few solid-colored frocks among the looks sent down the catwalk, it was the dramatic and eye-catching futuristic prints that really caught my eye. The exaggerated silhouettes and interesting draping, folding, and tailoring were also outstanding.
Moschino:
The Moschino collection was absolutely killer! I’m a huge fan of mod-inspired looks and this collection was all about the 60’s – From amazingly flattering black & white pieces to swoon-worthy brightly colored prints & stripes.
The dramatic, embellished silver sandals, the retro hats, oversized sunnies, shift dresses, and chic, colorful jumpsuits & rompers with contrasting colored piping were all totally wearable. The separates and dresses had a great retro vibe but were still totally wearable for a modern girl if styled right!
Dolce & Gabbana:
Bright, fun & kitschy – Just the way we like it!
The old school Italian themed show was full of fun colors, extravagant prints, stripes, oversized earrings, scarves, and the classic, retro silhouettes that the pair do so well. It was interesting, eye-catching, and wearable.
Roberto Cavalli:
This primarily black & white collection included hints of pink, green, and orange among the dreamy crystal, gem, and jewel-encrusted dresses, gowns, and slim suits.
From delicate lace, mesh, and sheer fabrics in crisp white to abstract florals in palest pastels to dramatic beaded pieces in black. Slinky, sexy, and dramatic – These designs were simultaneously powerful and delicate, a feat few designers can manage.
Marni:
Though there were bold patterns featured in the Marni collection, there were also great white, and solid colored separates and dresses, all in the preferred, exaggerated silhouette of Consuelo Castiglioni.
Wooden brooches and ankle-strap platform sandals were also featured, both adding a down-to-earth feel to the collection. What I liked best were the cocoon -haped coats in bright prints and the peplum adorned dresses.
Gucci:
Think PINK! The Gucci show opened with a handful of bright pink looks, followed by blue, green, and yellow before the final black & white evening looks.
Brilliant colors, retro 70’s styles, and flattering, womanly silhouettes. The collection was dramatic and eye-catching while still being fun and wearable. The whole affaire was bold and sexy, one of my favorite collections!
MaxMara:
The relaxed, Out of Africa style collection from MaxMara showcased slouchy knits, shirt dresses, safari inspired outerwear, and a host of somber colored prints, plaids, and stripes.
They delivered a collection of easy, low-key separates that could easily be paired together or mixed n’ matched with other pieces that you already have in your wardrobe.
Giorgio Armani:
This collection was all about shimmering, shiny, science fiction-inspired fabrics, textures, and colors. Silvery blue-grays, tie-dye inspired aquas, and sparkling navy were all heavily featured.
The flowy, somewhat exaggerated silhouettes were universally flattering and the chic, simple sandals were pure Armani. I always love Giorgio’s habit of sending two girls at a time down the runway, such a fun way to space things!
Versus:
This was a fun, bright, playful extravaganza – From candy-like prints & patterns to vibrant pinks, yellows & blues to cheeky silhouettes & fabrics.
I especially liked the interesting fabrics and textures that Christopher Kane showcased, as well as the use of exposed zippers and the fun prints. It was a really youthful and energetic collection of pieces.
Missoni:
The knits that marched down the runway for Missoni spanned the color spectrum – From crisp whites to playful corals to Springy greens & blues. Taste the rainbow!
The breezy dresses and structured separates were wearable and chic – Perfect for a Spring full of exotic locations, days spent reading by the pool, or picking your way through foreign flea markets. They had a rich feel to them, like a luxurious vacation to far away lands come to life!
Sources: Style.com, Fashionologie, The Stylist, & Tom & Lorenzo
Previous Milan Collections: Milan Fashion Week Fall 2012 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion, Milan Fashion Week Fall 2012, Milan Fashion Week Spring 2012 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion, Milan Fashion Week Spring 2012 – Part I & Milan Fashion Week Spring 2012 – Part II.
Additional reviews, photographs, shows, and videos: Fashionologie’s Bags! The Best From Milan’s Spring 2013 Runways, Harper’s Bazaar’s Milan Fashion Week Spring 2013 Looks & Derek Blasberg’s Insta-Diary From The Fashion Week(s).
What’s your favorite designer from the Milan Fashion Week lineup? Do you look forward to any shows season after season?
New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part III
This post is devoted to the lines that I’m just discovering – Hey I never claimed to be on top of everything – and the designers are that just starting to hock their wares at New York Fashion Week. You can catch up on the earlier posts that you missed to see reviews of dozens more fashion shows – New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part I & New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part II.
Veronica Beard:
This two-year old brand put out a lovely collection for Spring 2013 – Twenty-one looks that included colorful day dresses, loungewear, smart blazers, chic suits, and light outerwear.
You could see the Moroccan influence in the vivid colors and prints, and in the loose silhouettes and pajama-like styles of some of the pants, jumpsuits, and short suits.
Jil Sander Navy:
I’m not sure why, but I’ve never checked out the Loobook for Jil Sander Navy before – Thus its inclusion in the “new to me” Part III review of NYFW – And I enjoyed what I saw. The collection was full of crisp fabrics, clean lines, and basic separates that are the building block for every modern woman’s wardrobe.
When I look at this Lookbook I see all the casual but chic and stylish pieces that you need – Tennis skirts, sleeveless blouses, car coats, shirt dresses, patterned jackets, mod-inspired collarless shifts, and knee-length skirts – All in navy, white, red & blue with stripes and florals thrown in for good measure and paired with sporty wedges, t-straps, and platform tennis shoes.
I look forward to seeing what this brand comes out with next!
Honor:
This was a pretty collection of pretty frocks in neutrals with hints of Spring-appropriate pink and green. Nature-based prints, lace, and brocades gave this collection a very sweet vibe – Everything looked fresh and ready for next Spring.
Light colors, delicate fabrics, and slightly oversized silhouettes gave many of the pieces the illusion that they were preparing to float away. In addition to satin pumps there were classic sandals in white and powder blue. I loved the shorts, pants, and high-neck blouses they were sweet and dreamy but still contemporary enough to imagine in your own closet.
Holmes & Yang:
Miss Katie Holmes continued to shed her Mrs. Tom Cruise title and joined with her long-time stylist to create a cute, functional group of looks for an early morning NYFW showing.
The clothes were chic and wearable with flats & heels, handbags, flowing silk maxi dresses & maxi skirts, slouchy cropped pants, cute day dresses, short suits, and plenty of fun prints and leather. The first look was my favorite, I liked the loose wide leg pants and the quilted motorcycle jacket.
Pierre Balmain:
While Balmain is the go-to brand for sexy, rock n’ roll fabulousness, its new sister line Pierre Balmain may become the go-to for chic, ladylike separates.
The 66 look collection featured Parisian black & white, pops of pink & yellow, peplums, lace, leather & eyelet, menswear, denim, all-over prints, and a great collection of blazers & jackets in varying lengths and fabrics. While Balmain pieces can often look more like couture than street wear, these clothes were ready to walk straight from the catwalk to the sidewalk!
Theyskens’ Theory:
I’m embarrassed to admit it, but I’ve never taken the time to look at Oliver Theyskens’ collection for Theory before. The shame! And it was no surprise that I liked what I saw when I finally did.
It was a dark hued, wet looking group collection – filled with elegant suits, sleek leather, chunky knits, and some slouchy Alexander Wang-style separates, all paired with strappy heels and oversized, borrowed from the boys outerwear.
Thakoon Addition:
Cute. Feminine. Wearable. These were the first thoughts that popped into my head when I saw this collection – Nothing innovative or provocative, just stylish, contemporary separates and dresses for the modern girl.
The eyelet and mini flower prints were Spring-ready and the bloomer-style short shorts and long, open sweaters gave the collection some fun silhouettes. I especially liked the print mixing and the striped, open sweater-sets.
Katie Gallagher:
NYFW newbie Katie Gallagher was quite the topic of discussion this season and stood up to the scrutiny by showing a black & nude collection full of draping, swimwear, and cutouts.
Peplums, sheer fabrics, chainlink belts, lace-up strappy sandals, asymmetrical hemlines, shrunken outerwear, bathing suits, retro bandeau tops, and textured fabrics kept the collection from being boring.
MM6 Maison Martin Margiela:
The perfect Paris-meets-New-York-City looks this season came from MM6 Maison Martin Margiela, new to NYFW and one of the hottest tickets in town.
Urban cuts, dramatic drapping, and loose silhouettes featured heavily in the Lookbook, with washed out greys, browns, and white, all paired with over-the-shoulder and messenger bags.
Charlotte Ronson:
Flirty florals, calming deep blues & greens, multicolored stripes, colorblocking, rompers, sheer blouses, mesh, jumpsuits, and cute shrunken blazers all made an appearance in the Ocean themed collection.
The separates here really stole my heart, I loved the print mixing & matching, the layering, and the sweet patterns that she used. I was also a fan of the handbags and ankle strap platforms that accompanied the looks. These are the perfect types of pieces for throwing on during the Spring & Summer – Bathing suit cover ups, hot Summer nights, vacation clothes – Cute, easy, and wearable.
Sources: Style.com, Fashionologie, The Stylist, & Tom & Lorenzo
Previous NYFW Collections: New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part I, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part II, New York Fashion Week Fall 2012, Pre-Fall 2012 Part I, Part II, Part III, and NYFW Spring 2012 Round-Up.
Additional reviews, photographs, shows, and videos: The Huffington Post’s New York Fashion Week 2012: The Top 5 Trends, The IFB’s Spring 2013 Collectionson Pinterest, or The Stylist’s The Pit, Model Critiques And More: A New York Fashion Week Photographer Diary (VIDEO).
What was your favorite trend so far from the Spring 2013 collections? I think I have to agree with Mr. Blasberg about one of my favorite emerging trends for next Spring – “NYFW trend: Long live the sexy secretary skirt! Low on the hips at Marc Jacobs, unzipped at Michael Kors, and in python at Reed Krakoff.” Looking forward to seeing how this trend is translated in London, Milan, and Paris.
Be sure to stay tuned for the fourth and final post from the tents at New York Fashion Week – The street style, nighttime glam, and fabulous front row fashion of New York City.
IFBCON – Trends, Styles & Inspirations
This week was the much-anticipated Independent Fashion Bloggers Conference – Otherwise known as IFBCON – Held in New York City right before the start of the Spring 2013 Fashion Week.
“Looking back, what made this IFBCON special was how authentic & original everyone and every panel was. True representation of the community.” – IFB
{Fashionistas waiting to get into the conference @ 8:30am on a muggy NYC Tuesday}
The words above uttered by IFB couldn’t be truer, this was an amazing & educational experience. I mentioned here that I wanted to share all of the fabulous fashion that I got a chance to witness at the conference, so share I will.
{Top Left: Bobbie Austin’s Closet, Top Right: The Subtle Statement & Rachel The Stylish Wanderer}
The personal style of the fashion bloggers of IFBCON was utterly diverse, ranging from hippie inspired fringe and layers, to rock n’ roll studs and spikes, to mix-masters who seamlessly paired patterns, stripes, polka dots, or animal prints.
Needless to say, this conference was a people watching dream!
Heels, stacked bracelets, and oversized bags were pervasive, but aside from that there were so many trends and styles that I’m almost at a loss for how to describe it all to you. Over-the-shoulder bags, spiked bracelets, fun tennis shoes, daytime sequins, camo, maxi & midi length skirts, pleats, round sunglasses, printed & brocade pants, peplum dresses, geometric prints, pajama-inspired separates – There was a veritable sea of beautiful colors, great textures, fun prints, and interesting fabrics.
Nearly as fascinating as the fashion bloggers themselves were the panelists and speakers that we were all there to see. Top bloggers, buyers, writers, brands, publishers, tech wizards, journalists, stylists, social media experts, authors, models – Basically, the best in the biz all there offering us advice, inspiration, motivation, and a vision of a possible future for ourselves.
{The one. The only. Iman}
Check out more outtakes from the conference here – just log into Facebook to view
So in summary, I was lucky enough to spend two days with some of the greatest fashion-minded men and women in the industry. People of all ages, nationalities, races, and backgrounds who have one very important thing in common – An all-consuming passion for all things fashionable!
And what did I wear for this amazing event?
{Left – Day 1 & Right – Day 2}
What’s your favorite fashion blog?
What questions would you have posed to fashion industry greats like Derek Blasberg, Coco Rocha, Iman, Kelly Framel of The Glamourai, Lindsey Calla of Saucy Glossie, Nicole Warne of Gary Pepper Vintage, Jessie Artigue of Style And Pepper, or Erin of Apartment 34?
Couture – Front Row Fashion & Street Style
For me, a big part of the fun of a week of runway shows – like the Fall 2012 Couture collections – is seeing the street style looks that the lucky attendees put together for the shows, dinners, and parties. Seeing how the various designer collections translate to “real life” is inspiring, motivational, and downright fun.
Fabulous! I love the whole two-toned look and how she picked materials and silhouettes that keep it from being too casual. J’adore!
The volume of this mini takes it up a level so she’s right at home sitting front row at the Dior Couture show.
A pretty printed dress is the perfect look for a Dior show and I think that this beautiful flocked knee-length frock is ideal for Couture.
A lipstick red suit it cute enough but when you turn a suit top into a chic little tee with a contrasting black pocket I’m all yours!!!
Little Black Dress + Sequined Clutch + Saddle Shoes = the understated French je ne sais quoi.
Parisian street style chic at its finest – Whether they’re wearing ripped jeans, chic black & white, or a midi, these ladies know how to mix & match their separates for maximum impact.
Bright, flirty florals, a demure silhouette, and a too chic peplum. What a fabulous frock, I’m in awe.
The Russian fashion ladies are stylish and their looks vary dramatically between them. Such great contrasts!
I love a short-suit and this is a stylish example, I really like the chic cut of the jacket and the subtle ruffle along the hem of the shorts. And those shoes… Wow.
Elizabeth von Guttman, Alexia Niedzielski, Shala Monroque, Elena Perminova and Ulyana Sergeenko – All distinctly different looks for Giambattista Valli, but all very chic, well put together, and appropriate. From solid colored separates and midriff-baring tops, to printed suits and floor length florals, the front row is almost as fun as the runway!
The ladies spiced things up for the Versace show and chose edgier outfits, from lace cut outs, to leather, to dramatic stitching. Donatella would approve!
In addition to seeing the looks that celebrities, editors, and other fashion insiders put together for their front row appearances, I love to take a look at the (often heavily made-up) models as they run between runways shows or head out to parties. Model street style is always a great combination of pieces & styles, since they have the opportunity to see so many collections and have exposure to so many designers. Jealous!
I love a colorful maxi skirt and this combination – the basic white tee paired with the metallic pink oversized clutch – is flirty, fun, and perfect for Summer.
Only Hanneli could make a couture Valentino gown look so low-key and street-appropriate.
AMAZING coat + killer heels, what more does a girl need?
I adore the layering here! Cut-off white shorts, a blue & white button-up PJ top, a tan leather motorcycle jacket, ankle booties, retro round sunglasses & a killer two-toned clutch. Such an unexpected combination of pieces, but it works!
And finally, a fashion favorite of mine, hit it girl!
She’s going to couture shows in Paris. French designers. In Paris. I mean, could she have picked a more adorably over-the-top French look?
Sources: Harper’s Bazaar, Tom & Lorenzo, Cristina’s Blog & Mr. Blasberg
What’s your favorite look here?
Couture Couture Couture
Phenomenal. Breathtaking. Eye-Catching. Dreamy. Unbelievable. Divine.
Those are all words that I could easily use to describe the Fall 2012 Couture collections that were shown in Paris this past week. The locations ranged from the Grand Palais to the Ritz Hotel to the Musée Bourdelle, and the themes ran the gamut from old school glamour to futuristic to Game of Thrones.
Yes. Game of Thrones.
The big story this season was Raf Simons’s inaugural collection for the house of Christian Dior after leaving Jil Sander at the end of last season. The show began with classic Dior colors and silhouettes, elegant suits, ladylike dresses, and then ball gowns that I can guarantee will feature heavily on the red carpet in the coming year’s award season.
The collection was anything but boring though with metallic belts, gorgeous embroidery, dramatic peplums, oversized pockets, opera-length gloves, bold collars, tie dyed pieces, tweeds, and reach-out-and-touch-them textures. It was soft and elegant and oh-so-Dior, but with a dramatic, extravagant edge.
Divine!
I’m not sure if I can put it any better than the fabulous Mr Blasberg who proclaimed: “In the last 13 minutes, Raf Simons just single-handedly altered the contemporary haute couture landscape.” Curious how the phenomenal flower-strewn setting was created for this show? This video gives you a fabulous backstage peek at the process of creation.
New Vintage was the theme for Karl Lagerfeld’s Chanel Fall 2012 Couture collection – “Vintage is depressing, but ‘new vintage’ is something to come. It’s preparation for something that could last.”
Bold plaid & checkered patterns, metal-tipped pumps, traditional tweeds, metallic silver tights, chunky knits, shimmery separates, slouchy sequined caps, oversized outerwear, maxi skirts and full pants, velvet coats, pussy bow blouses, Peter Pan collars, and dresses adorned with feathers, chiffon, tulle, and sequins all had a sassy retro feel with modern and sometimes futuristic-feeling details.
Givenchy‘s Riccardo Tisci is nothing if not detail oriented. His collections are traditionally small in size and he and his design teams & seamstresses really focus on making each look unique, one-of-a-kind, and highly intricate. His Fall 2012 collection focused on beading, heavy embroidery and brocades, leather working, fringe, and even sequins.
The restrained extravagance of this collection perfectly complemented the earthy, folksy theme that was somewhere between Little Red Riding Hood and Maid Marian. And I couldn’t have envisioned a more appropriate background than the lush green forest that these looks were photographed against.
While there was some of the famous Valentino red at the end of this show, the colors de jour were navy and creamy pink. The thick brocades and heavy embroideries in cream, peach, and pink played perfectly against the sequins, sheer panels, and flowing silks in varying shades of moody blues.
The details in these pieces were phenomenal, from delicate accordion pleats and metallic-laced brocades to dramatic floral cutouts and sheer chiffon ruffles. Chiuri and Piccioli have been getting their footing over the last few seasons and this couture collection seems to be the coming out party for the new Valentino – An opulent, dramatic twist on the old school glamour and romance that Valentino is known for.
In the world of couture Giorgio Armani’s Fall 2012 Armani Prive collection offered up something wholly different. Wearability. Given that couture is considered an art form and that pieces in these collections can range anywhere from $20,000 to $2,000,000, wearability is hardly the word de jour. But with the full, flattering cuts, cool, pale silks, and touchable, midnight dark velvets, wearable was just what he presented.
These looks were all about textures – Soft, sleek, touchable fabrics that you could almost feel against your skin. The jeweled and beaded veils were one of my favorite parts of this collection, they added serious drama and brought out a mysterious quality in the clothes that took you to another time and place.
The Versace show at the Ritz Hotel was wild and fun – Xena Warrior Princess meets Couture Barbie. The Versace woman is strong, fierce, and fearless, she embraces her sexuality and loves to show some skin. These clothes are not for the faint of heart, they were all about dramatic peek-a-boos, slashes, and slits.
Wide, tooled belts, multi-strap & buckle adorned heels, sheer cloth, sequined netting details, and spiderweb thin mesh gave this show unabashed shimmer, shine, and sex appeal.
The Versace girl is bold, uninhibited and in these clothes, she’s ready to party!
I always look forward to Giambattista Valli‘s collections – His esthetic is divine and I love how he always adds a little edge to his classic, ladylike silhouettes. And his second couture collection made me say to myself for a second time, Valli was made for couture.
And here in this dreamy place far away the moody reds and greens, organic prints, and flowing cuts & ruffles were all borrowed from nature; all-over muted floral patterns, applique and embroidered plant life, ruffles, flares, folds, and thick lace were all born of the outdoors. And with jewelry, accessories, and hairpieces evoking bugs, butterflies, and leaves, the theme was complete throughout the collection.
Rather than a fairy princess vibe the earthy tones and themes brought to mind wood nymphs and dryads – Woodland creatures who personified the various aspects of the natural world that they watched over; strong and eternal.
Sources: Fashionologie, Style.com, Tom & Lorenzo, TopCoat & FabSugar
If you’re curious to see what these designers have shown on the couture catwalk in seasons past here are a few links to try – Spring 2012 Couture and Fall 2011 Couture.
2012 CFDA Awards
The CFDA Awards were held Monday night and there were all sorts of highlights – from gorgeous red carpet dresses to fun announcements to an after party that just wouldn’t quit.
I swear, there was nothing else on my Twitter feed for HOURS.
Breathtaking. Sleek and sexy evening wear at its finest. I love that she didn’t wear a necklace and let the dress’ neckline take center stage. I also adored her strappy heels and cocktail rings. Perfection!
His tuxedo is classic and dapper, while she’s a vision in her eye-catching Eastern inspired dress.
Designer Olivier Theyskens and his gorgeous date Constance looked great together despite their height difference. Her dress is gorgeous, I love embellished 60’s style shift dresses and this one is gorgeous!
This Lela Rose gown is unique and eye-catching. I love that she wore something different and interesting. It suited her really well and she looked beautiful!
Fun, funky & totally unique. Just what I love about Taylor Tomasi Hill. And apparently she picked everything & got ready at the last-minute. How cool is that?
And if you’re a lover of prints and patterns on the red carpet, there were a handful of ladies who impressed and really brought the drama in that department Monday.
What did you think of Dakota’s Eastern-inspired Proenza Schouler dress? I bet it looked like a work of art in person, the attention to detail is pretty astonishing.
Definitely eye-catching! I love high-necks on dresses, I think it adds a sense of drama that a plunging neckline simply cannot.
I love women who dare to wear cocktail-length frocks on a red carpet filled with gowns, I think it’s a great way to make sure everyone is really taking a look at your dress choice. This look is busy busy busy with mixed patterns, an embellished neckline, and two-toned strappy heels, but she makes it work.
Clearly a good time was had by all!
I love to see the serious and intense fashion insiders letting loose and really enjoying themselves at events like this one. It’s a great reminder of how much fun fashion is and what an amazing opportunity these kinds of celebrations can be.
My blogger crush The Man Repeller (left) with designer Rebecca Minkoff and model Hilary Rhoda. Blues are definitely in!
P.S. You should definitely check out The Man Repeller, Rebecca Minkoff, and Hilary Rhoda’s hysterical “Call Me Maybe” music video that they made while getting ready for this event.
So. Funny.
Beautiful designers in their beautiful designs!
Fashion is frequently about the past meeting the present, and here’s the personification of that concept – Fashion icon Lauren Hutton with new designers and CFDA winners Ashley & Mary-Kate Olsen.
Can’t forget our boys! From traditional suits to tuxedos with a twist to white linen, they definitely clean up nice!
Want to check out the list of nominees and winners from this event? Harper’s Bazaar has you covered here.
Or you can see my choice for the best dressed individual of the night in lacy black Marc Jacobs…
Diamond Gals
In honor of the Diamond Jubilee across the pond this past weekend let’s show some love for the royal fashions worn by Queen Elizabeth II over the years, as well as the new fashionable royal, the Duchess of Cambridge.
http://www.mrblasberg.com/2012/06/02/the-queens-jubilee-a-tribute-to-a-true-fashion-icon/
Don’t they look great sitting side-by-side? Formal, chic, and well-put together.
Who knew a kerchief could be so regal? I love the Jackie O style coat with the great broach. Parfait!
Pretty pink pleats and a perfectly adorable bow-adorned hat.
Green florals are a great style for Spring, she looks fresh and fashionable, never stodgy.
Want to steal their style and channel these glamorous but demure and chic women?
Classic coats and matching hats are the order of the day.
Source, Source, Source & Source
What’s the first thing that I think of when I’m looking at these ladies? Amazing coats and dresses, and killer lady-like accessories.
London Fog toffee double breasted belted long trench – $150 @ Bluefly.com
Long Cotton Trench – $995 @ Burberry
ASOS Long Line Blazer in Cotton – $125 @ Asos.com
Why not try on a long coat, choose either calf-length or knee-length depending on your height and build. You want a silhouette that will lengthen your form, not truncate it.
You can also see my favorite Kate Middleton looks broken down in this MCLV Style File or this Looks of the Week post.
* And yes, this title is stolen from A League of Their Own. 🙂 Shameless.
Veuve Anyone?
This weekend was beautiful and there were all sorts of fun summer events on the docket for the important and fashionable to attend, including the Fifth Annual Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic.
And the stars were definitely out.
There were Hollywood A-listers like host Clive Owen, top models like Jessica Stam, Hilary Rhoda, and Coco Rocha, fashion insiders like Rachel Zoe, Derek Blasberg, and Poppy Delevingne, and even athletes joined the festivities this weekend.
Love the black & white looks – Whether its patterns or just black & white separates, it’s a great way to up the chicness of a look.
How sweet is this look? Pretty pink petal skirt and some killer red lips, Miss Coco knows just what she’s doing.
Hot stuff! Black leather short are tough tough tough to pull off. Might be best to leave it up to the experts!
This pleated peach maxi is pretty cute, but it was Olivia’s giant gold pendant that really got my attention. That and her date’s adorable suit.
I love a white linen suit in summer. Tres chic!
Um… Love! How great is this? From the gorgeous printed maxi dress (Rachel Zoe Collection – but of course) to the umbrella to the great 70’s style floppy hat.
Source, Source, Source & Source
Inspired? You can check out some of the great looks from last year’s event here – Including Jaime King and Selma Blair enjoying the sunshine.
Looks of the Week
How was everyone’s weekend? Did you have a good Mother’s Day? While I didn’t get to see my mother yesterday, I did get a chance to spend some time with my boyfriend’s mother and his sister who just gave birth to her third daughter two weeks ago. Quite the family day!
But today we’re here to discuss street style. Here in San Francisco it regularly goes from bright, sunny, and stunningly warm to foggy and rainy in 12 hours, so there’s no way to dress consistently during the Spring and Summer, it’s all about layering and keeping a sweater or umbrella in your bag. Here are some looks that run the gamut in terms of skin coverage so hopefully no matter where you are in the world there’s a look that you can emulate, enjoy!
I’m MAD about this look. A fabulous retro-inspired dress in a fun, eye-catching print is a great way to go. And those floral sunglasses are the icing on the fabulous cake!
I love love love how she paired a flowy, hippie-style maxi dress with a cropped leather jacket, it gives it an edge. Biker Chick Chic!
Olivia’s low key floral frock is perfect for Summer weddings this season. It’s flattering and pretty, and can easily go from day to night with the right jewelry and heels. She wears it perfectly here with ankle strap Boutique 9 heels.
Just wow. Gorgeous color against her skin, unique dress with beautiful embellishments, and great, great accessories.
Gorgeous – Bottega Veneta Intrecciato Satin Knot Clutch
SEXY – She spices up her look with hot pumps – Brian Atwood ‘Claudia Bis’ Platform Pumps
And if you’re as big a fan of Miss Zoe as I am, check out The Frugal Fashionista’s breakdown of some of her best outfits over the years. Tres chic!
Interested in trying out the printed jeans trend? This is a great, subtle way to work the trend without getting too overwhelmed. Love that she paired the high-impact pants with a simple T.
Too cuter! I love the retro patterned shorts paired with the chic gold polka-dotted blouse. That adorable mint green Prada bag is the perfect finishing touch!
I LOVE this look. The mixing of the retro prints is just too cute. She looks like a chic Amy Winehouse!
Want to try a new spin on an old class? Spice up your Little Black Dress this Spring and take Brooklyn Decker, Be Frassy’s Audrey Rogers, or model Anne V as your inspiration.
You can keep it classy in a knee-length dress, but it doesn’t have to be boring, you can easily find one with fun embellishments and details that will make you stand out in a crowd.
Sexy sheer lace can be taken to the next level with a fun flared skirt. Some kick @$$ bright pumps are the perfect finishing touch.
A jersey dress is a great way to stay cool as the temperature rises, and Anne V shows us here that you don’t have to sacrifice an ounce of glamour if you go with a demure hemline. Wow!
And if you’re still dying for more street style, check out these best dressed round ups – Vogue UK and Mr. Blasberg’s Best-Dressed List for Harper’s Bazaar.
Have a great night!
Looks of the Week
How’s everyone’s week going? Between the 2012 Kentucky Derby and the fashion Olympics – otherwise known as the Metropolitan Museum’s Costume Institute Gala – earlier this week, I’m more than ready to enjoy some casual street style looks.
I love everything about this look! I adore the ornate sleeves of the boxy cropped jacket, I like that she wore powder blue pants rather than standard jeans, and the necklace is gorgeous. Oh, and that bag. Wow.
This is the perfect example of a transition outfit. It’s starting to get warmer but you can’t quite run around in shorts and a tank yet, so add tights and pair your adorable shorts with a pretty printed blouse.
LOVE his suit. The patterns and mixture of colors are parfait! Yes, Miss Emma looks adorable here too, but as he should, Mr. Blasberg is the standout at his book fete!
Hey there sexy lady! I guess you know if you’re going to do Gucci from head-to-toe you’ll end up with a dramatic, eye-catching look.
I love the laid back but chic style of this look. The flowy, hippie-inspired shirt paired with cropped boyfriend jeans is a great combination, and those cobalt blue pumps are divine.
Such a great, relaxed Summer look. The tooled leather fanny pack is an interesting choice and I like the end result.
Are you fan of chambray? Check out Eatbreathfashion.com‘s tribute.
I love it when guys give a little effort on the RC. Something interesting. Something different. The cookie-cutter black suit is a no-no as far as I’m concerned. This? This however is perfect. Well played Harry!
Street Style @ Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Australia 2012:
Just wow. Great color combination, great proportions, great mixture of fabrics and textures.
Not sure how to wear Summer White? This picture is practically a How-To. Gorgeous, head to toe!
Do you have a cute printed blouse that you love? You can keep wearing it all summer, just tuck it into a mini skirt or shorts!
I love how she took really basic pieces and put together a stand-out look. White cotton shorts & a T with a gorgeous bag and beautiful printed robe. J’adore!
This is an interesting, dramatic look. The basic black on the bottom is overpowered (in a good way) by the brightly colored shirt with the asymmetrical hem and the too cute leather jacket & Mulberry bag combo. Well done!
It takes serious sartorial skills to wear floral pants or to mix patterns, and Perventina does a great job on both accounts. At the same time. Wow.
Let’s finish up with some red carpet glamour.
This is basically a tutorial on how to rock a chic mini on your next night out on the town. Courtesy of our fashion fairy godmothers Gwyneth, Coco, Diane, and Kate.
Perfection! Flattering fit. Flattering color.
Love love love! She did a great job styling this, I love the mix n’ match polka dots with the striped clutch. Too cute.
Chic, sleek, sexy. What more do you need for a night out?
Dramatic & eye-catching. As a model Coco really knows how to make a look work for her.
Have a great night!
Moi Contre La Vie 