An ongoing love affaire with all things fashionable, tasty and fun

Posts tagged “Milanese fashion

Looks of the Week

After a short hiatus – Otherwise know as The Holidays – I’d like to welcome you back for another Looks of the Week post. I just can’t get enough of colors, textures, and fun, eye-catching fabrics these days. So enjoy these shots – I hope you’re motivated to mix things up like these stylish ladies!

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{How KILLER is this look? Head-to-toe fabuous from the black & red color scheme to the fabulous baubles to the lace+leather+graphic prints.}

FashionFruit

{Doesn’t this look make you want to reach out and touch it? Love the vest paired w/ the vibrantly colored top. So dramatic!}

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{Too. Freaking. Cute. I love her vest & bag – But that hat is just plain WORKIN’ for me!}

TinasBlog

{While I do adore this mustard colored skirt it’s not what initially caught my attention. It was the cable knit sweater over blue plaid wit a killer statement necklace. The textures & colors here are fabulous!}

OhMyLooks

{Do I even need to caption this?}

Victoria

{Red. Hot. I love a power suit and is anything more enpowering than head-to-toe red? Tres chic!}

FashionSteeleNYC

{I’m currently in the midst of a full blown obsession with embellished skirts – Seriously, the bf is concerned for my well being – And feathers are high on my need-want-have-to-have list! I love how Fashion Steele NYC keeps this look from being too over-the-top by pairing it with a basic tee & blazer.}

Polienne

{I mean – Wow. Love the colors. Love the layers. Love the fabrics & texures. Just love!}

Lucy

{Tweed is one of my favorite Winter fabrics – It’s warm and has a certain destinguished Brit-vibe to it. I also love a one-of-a-kind suit like this one.}

Which look here in your favorite? Are you enjoying rich colors, fun fabrics, and interesting textures this season?


Looks of the Week

Compaired to the Looks of the Week: Pants Edition post last week the collection of looks below is a somewhat more versatile – With a killer jumpsuit, chic mini and maxi skirts, stylish pants in various fits and silhouettes, and fabulous outerwear from fashion bloggers and models around the world.

This is without a doubt the best look that I came across this past week. It’s striking, flattering, fashion-forward, and just plain fabulous – From the killer red jumpsuit to the silver spiked braid to the oversized clear clutch. Wow!

I love the combination of the white pleated maxi skirt & basic white tee paired with the bright, patterned jacket by Milly. It’s fun, unique look that makes me miss Summer!

What I love most about this look is the texture of the patent oxblood skirt combined with the matte, loose-fitted blouse. Oh, and those shoes. J’adore ankle straps!

This is such a feisty, rock n’ roll look – I LOVE her studded jacket and those buckle-adorned boots are totally killer!

This look is such a fun combination of colors, fabrics, and textures – It’s really eye-catching and fashiony, but still looks relaxed and comfortable.

There’s pretty much nothing more classic than a trench coat but leave it to Saucy Glossie to choose a leather sleeved version and pair it with a fun, eye-catching leopard print scarf. Great combination!

Black & brown can be a hard color combination to put together but when it’s done right it can be pretty striking. This silhouette paired with the 70’s inspired felt hat is a great look – Très français!

Which of these looks is your favorite? Are there any new trends or fun new styles you’re especially excited to try out this Fall?


Paris Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion

Here we are, the final post from Spring 2013 Fashion Week in New York, London, Milan, and Paris. Today we’ll be looking at some of the best street style from Fashion Month – The ladies really dress to the nines when it comes to being photographed at Paris Fashion Week.

I adore this look from head-to-toe! From the quilted motorcycle jacket to the striking black & white bag to the suede ankle boots. Well done!

This look is so sweet and retro I couldn’t help but love it. The contrasting colored tights and chunky velvet ankle strap sandals are my favorite part!

A dramatic black & white look with a splash of color is a great color scheme to work with and the sleek silhouette of this look is even more striking.

This outfit is all about the tan, double-breasted coat. I love a dramatic outerwear look like this!

A floral jumpsuit is just the thing in the Parisian parks when paired with a tan wrap-around belt and a striking coral Chanel bag.

This is one of the most stunning overcoats that I’ve seen in a while –  A stunning color with a fun, eye-catching brooch and a great retro vibe.

So chic & well put together! The bright, collared shirt dress paired with a sleek black leather jacket is a great pairing and suits her perfectly.

Karmen may be Estonian, but she’s got the French je ne sais quoi in spades. This layered black look is striking & eye-catching despite being monochromatic.

Such a stunning, Summery look – The floral maxi looks great paired with the white, cropped leather jacket and that Hermes Birkin bag is swoon-worthy.

One of my favorite Paris Fashion Week street style looks was from blogger Chiara Ferragni – This multi colored lace Chanel dress with nude accessories is chic, flattering, and timeless. She looks stunning!

{Click on the links above to view the original source}

Previous Spring 2013 Collections: New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part I, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part II, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part IIINew York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion, London Fashion Week Spring 2013London Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Street Style & Front Row FashionMilan Fashion Week Spring 2013, and Milan Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion.

Additional reviews, photographs, shows, and videos: Onto My Wardrobe’s Fashion Weeks Recap, FabSugar’s Best Paris Fashion Week Street-Style Accessories, and WhoWhatWear’s What They Wore: Paris Fashion Week.

Which street style and front row fashion had you most excited from this season’s Fashion Month – New York, London, Milan, or Paris?


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 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion

So far we’ve enjoyed the editors, bloggers, fashion insiders, models, and fabulous fashionistas who graced the streets at New York Fashion Week and London Fashion Week, and today we’ll turn to the stunning Italian style showcased during Milan Fashion Week. Bold prints, brilliant colors, dramatic silhouettes – Very distinct styles & interpretations of trends, very well done.

Stunning! Such an interesting and creative combination of elements that come together in a beautiful Italian way – The animal print dress works perfectly with the bright tweed jacket and the blue top handle bag.

Taylor Tomasi-Hill is one that I always keep an eye out for. She puts together such fun, visually interesting looks that I can hardly wait to see what she’s wearing. A midi-length dark floral dress would overwhelm some but not only can she pull it off, she can also add a cropped motorcycle jacket and look nonchalant about the whole thing.

Model Dree Hemingway knows the value of an eye-catching accessory. Her slim black leather pants and basic tee are taken to a whole new level with the addition of an oversized cobalt blue clutch.

Stunning Italian Fashion Blogger Chiara Ferragni of Blonde Salad fame looks great here in contrasting brights. The oversized lucite bangles, jaunty hat, and mouth-watering Hermes bag are the perfect finishing touches.

Head-to-toe Prada could be overwhelming but it looks street-ready here with the crisp white shirt underneath and the brilliant orange platform heels.

I love everything about this casual but oh-so-chic look. The army green & black combination, the killer Givenchy handbag, and of course, those loafers!

Mixing & matching prints is one of my favorite looks – When it’s done right. And this outfit? This is a tutorial on how to do it in a flattering, eye-catching way.

A wide-leg, grey, pinstripe jumpsuit? Three concepts that make me break out in hives just thinking about them together, and yet, here it looks downright dapper.

This striking white jumpsuit was caught outside the Etro show. I can’t decide if I love the plaid jacket, tan handbag, or the back-bow on the jumpsuit best!

Russian designer & photographer Ulyanna Sergeenko is quickly becoming a favorite of mine during Fashion Month – Her look is always refined and ladylike, with an emphasis on the DRAMA.

Garance Dore captured the always well-heeled Elisa Nalin in this great look. I love the diamond print on the slim pants as well as the black & white plaid boyfriend blazer paired with a Kelly green top. Tres chic!

Leave it to a blogger to pull of a brightly colored floral & bulldog print shift dress paired with buckle adorned black ankle booties. Brava!

Not sure how to pair various denim pieces together in one look? This model shows us just how it’s done in an oversized chambray button-down shirt and patchwork jeans.

This model looks amazing in Isabel Marant, from the separates she paired together to the booties – Well done!

{Click on the links above to view the original source}

Previous Spring 2013 Collections: New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part I, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part II, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part III, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion, London Fashion Week Spring 2013, London Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion, Milan Fashion Week Spring 2013, and Milan Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion.

Additional reviews, photographs, shows, and videos:

Are you a fan of the dramatic and eye-catching style that the Italians are known for and that were quite prevalent during Milan Fashion Week?


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?


London Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion

The street style in London always has a bit of drama to it – While New York Fashion Week is full of fun, bright Summer separates, London usually has more focus on deeper colors, outerwear, and great boots.

You can always out on Miss Dita to give great face. She always gives a look her all and looks perfectly put together.

Mixing prints like this is not a challenge to be taken on by a novice! Bright colorblocking, paisley pants, red, black & white heels, and an oversized black clutch with red piping. Masterly!

Mulberry had itself quite the front row! Designer Emma Hill was joined by the a couple of fabulous British It girls – Alexa Chung, Kate Moss, and Lana Del Rey.

Texture! Texture! Texture! Between the stacked beaded bracelets to the contrasting lace in blues and creams to the chunky statement necklace – This look is all about mixing and matching textures and fabrics.

Such a stylish, colorful outfit – I love the marigold cropped pants paired with the emerald-green double-breasted blazer, it’s an interesting and striking combination.

This is such a great British outfit! The sweet silhouette of the drop-waist shift dress, the contrasting collar, and the chic retro hat are lovely, and I like how she paired them with a statement necklace and brightly colored clutch.

Poppy has been a longtime fan and supporter of Matthew Williamson and put together a great boho look for his show – Torn jeans, metallic strappy sandals, an embroidered top, and braids.

This is a fantastic jacket and I love how she gave it a fun, relaxed feel by paring it with a graphic tee and the cherry red handbag.

Rocker chic meets Catholic school girl – Daisy Lowe put together an edgy but stylish black & white ensemble by pairing a pleated mini with a high-neck blouse, cropped motorcycle jacket, and ankle boots.

I absolutely adore this – The puppy sweater is too cute for words, the tweed coat is killer, and I NEED those moccasin heels!

The stylish outerwear wasn’t just on the runway at Burberry, Miss Julia RestoinRoitfeld and Robert Konjic looked great in double-breasted coats just outside the show.

Drama Queen! Never interested in being a wallflower ADR stuns in statement pieces after statement piece! Maybe she got caught in a fashion shower on her way to the show? 🙂

I adore this shot of models Poppy & Arizona. They have such distinct styles, but they both look great. Poppy’s studded ankle boots and black & white printed blouse suit her perfectly, while Arizona’s button-front dress and cropped leather jacket work really well to create a fun, unique look.

Stunning! I love the sweet Peter Pan collar and can’t imagine a more flattering color or cut for her. And those booties? Swoon! Leave it to a blogger to knock it right out of the park! 🙂

{Click on the links above to view the original source}

Previous LFW & Spring 2013 Collections: New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part I, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part II, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Part III, New York Fashion Week Spring 2013 – Street Style & Front Row Fashion, London Fashion Week Fall 2012, London Fashion Week – Street Style & Front Row Fashion, London Fashion Week Spring 2012 Round-Up, and Streetstyle & Front Row Fashion – London Fashion Week.

Additional reviews, photographs, shows, and videos: London Fashion Week Spring 2013: Parties & Front Row, Street Style Spring 2013: London Fashion Week & London Backstage Beauty Files: Spring 2013 from Harper’s Bazaar.

Do you prefer the wild & vibrant styles that feature heavily on the sidewalks of New York City or the moody, Fall-inspired fashions on the London streets during Fashion Week?


Looks of the Week

Let’s start out this week’s Looks of the Week post with a fun Style Stalker piece from WhoWhatWear on Erika Bearman, otherwise known as The Oscar PR Girl. She’s an Oscar de la Renta insider and one of the premier voices in the online fashion community, with killer style, as you can see below.

Tres chic, non?

Very nearly speechless. That coat is PHENOMENAL. And on top of that she paired it with an adorable green handbag and killer blue velvet sandals. Absolute perfection!

So. Cute.

I love everything here – The chic but fun & girly gingham dress, the tan trench, the gorgeous Celine handbag, and the classic gold jewelry.

This tropical print wrap skirt from Zara is fabulous, and I love that she paired it with a simple white tee to keep the look low-key and perfect for Summer.

I love the way that Anna dello Russo styled this chic little Moschino dress – The bangles are gorgeous and those ankle strap nude & gold pumps are pretty darn cute.

If this adorable white mod-inspired dress looks familiar it’s because I featured Alexa Chung in the same piece a few weeks ago – Looks of the Week. Which look do you prefer, Alexa’s red carpet glam take or Anna’s more casual summertime style?

I’m not sure if I can pick just one – I love Alexa’s flamingo clutch ADR’s jewelry is the perfect finishing touch…

I love that the black skirt, wide-brimmed hat, and buckle-adorned boots give this look some edge and a fun, rock n’ roll vibe, keeping the floral button down from turning it in to a sweet, romantic look.

This is such an amazing combination of pieces that only an expert like Be Frassy could put together, I love how it all comes together to create a fun, sassy look.

Cute cute cute. This sleeveless white blouse looks clean and crisp despite the NYC heat, this is definitely a great way to keep cool this Summer.

And why not finish up this Looks of the Week post with a couple of my favorite looks from Comic-Con this past weekend? Don’t mind if I do…

Can you picture anything more adorably perfect for Comic-Con than this 3.1 Phillip Lim top? Cute, funky, and fun. She looks fabulous and appropriate.

It’s a tough job but somebody’s got to dress up as a kick @$$ superhero girl for Comic-Con. Must have? Skin-tight leather pants!

Boondock Saints is one of my all-time favorite movies and since I’ve had a massive crush on Norman Reedus since college I just HAD to include his sexy Comic-Con look here. Swoon.

I absolutely adored this look, the fun colors and youthful silhouette make it a great superhero-esque outfit.

What’s your favorite look here? Are you still living in warm weather clothes?

Click on images above to visit the original source.


Looks of the Week

I always give a little sigh of relief when all of the Fashion Weeks are over – There’s a lot to keep up with, a lot going on, lots of photos to try to find and websites to link and models to track down… It’s pretty exhausting even from a distance, I can’t imagine actually being there! 

So, to celebrate the end of a month of fashion here’s a Looks of the Week post filled with fabulous, relatable styles that we mere mortals can emulate.

Such a great, easy look. A chic black pantsuit is a great alternative to a cocktail dress. Though most of us aren't running around in Louis Vuitton Pre-Fall 2012 pieces. Unfortunately...

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Stacy Keibler rocked a stunning blue Asos dress that showed off just a hint of skin. This is a great cocktail frock because the longer hemline offsets the flash of midriff to keep it on the classy side.

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This is a great mens coat. I love the contrasting belt, faux fur collar & double-breasted buttons. Not a huge fan of facial hair or short pants on men though...

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I'm still in full coat mode and I love that this is a lighter version, more of a "preparing for Spring" type coat than a winter coat.

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Late Afternoon has a knack for pairing pieces you might not guess would look phenomenal together. Yellow jeans, a white lace top and a floral midriff baring top? Perfection! Spring anyone?

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In the mood for florals to get a jump on Spring? Check out Modelinia’s Model Style File: Flirty Florals.

Does it get more chic than this? Cropped black skinnies, pointy-toed pumps and a black leather motorcycle jacket. Fabulous.

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Wow. I mean. Just wow. It can be hard to pull off the menswear inspired suit on the red carpet, and trying to spice it up with a little sexiness can fail. But Miss Evan Rachel Wood knows how to do it right. Love the shoes paired with the Jason Wu suit.

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So chic! Taylor Tomasi-Hill looked phenomenal in polka dots, wide leg pants and a great belt in Milan.

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This is hardly a typical mini skirt look - I like sequined collar on the bright red blouse and the fun zipper clutch. They both keep it far from boring.

Source Want to try a great polka dot look? Eat, Breath, Fashion has some inspiration & ideas on finding the perfect look. Or you can check out the MCLV Style File on Olivia Palmero‘s polka dot skirt! 

Stay tuned this week for summaries from the Fall 2012 Paris Fashion Week shows, the front row looks and a very special Moi Contre La Vie giveaway.


Looks of the Week

Welcome to Moi Contre La Vie’s Looks of the Week.

This is a special edition because at the end I’ve included some snaps from the Fall/Winter 2012 Menswear collections. And why is that so special? Well… Prada had some very interesting special guests that walked their runway.

Fuzzy, powder blue Philosophy Di Alberta coat paired with purple pants and kick @$$ black leather booties? Yes please! Hanneli, you're my hero.

 

Polka dots, leopard print & sequins? For daytime? It takes quite the talented stylist to pull off that combination and make it look this chic.

Not sure how to stay warm on date night? Rachel McAdams wears a buckled wool coat over a seriously cute pleated LBD with dramatic, pointy toed nude & black pumps.

 

Alright, its official, Matt Bomer is no longer just a pretty face. He's a pretty face that can seriously put together an outfit. Love the camel coat. Love the shoes. LOVE the purple scarf. What? I live in San Francisco.

 

Olivia Palermo absolutely knocked one out of the park with this ridiculously chic look. The cropped pants, leopard heels and bag are incredibly well chosen and the fur-trimmed, double-breasted jacket is beyond stunning.

There may be a Style File coming on this look…

Emma's look here is super cute, but simple enough to copy easily. I especially like the flashy red pants and the black and white striped scarf.

  

Model Imogen Morris-Clarke was captured on the street in New York wearing a phenomenal vintage YSL coat and varying shades of blue and black. I love the mixing of colors, fabrics and textures in this look.

 
Alexa Chung’s cropped navy trench look got fashionable mention on Frugal Fashionista. This is a GREAT way to cover up when you’re wearing a midi length skirt or dress – go for a completely different length top layer!
 
alexa chung burberry, alexa chung paris
 
 

First, why am I not in Paris right now??? Second, LOVE this look. A high-waisted skirt is a challenge to pull off but this bright little number paired with a crisp white button down and seriously hot heels make it work oh so well.

 

It's no secret that I adore outerwear - so there was no chance I wouldn't fall for this look. Knee-length, double-breasted camel colored coat with a matching scarf? AND leather gloves & pressed, hemmed slacks. Oh Milan.

 
Prada’s Fall/Winter 2012 Menswear show in Milan showcased some gorgeous outerwear, slacks, and accessories. It also showcased some new talent on the runways. Think these gentlemen have a future in modeling? 🙂
 

Willem Dafoe was chic in all black with a dramatic broach-like decoration on the breast pocket of his overcoat. I also love the way they parted his hair for this look!

Adrien Brody in a phenomenal red brocade double-breasted coat with fur lapels and hippie-inspired round glasses.

Gary Oldman finished up the show in another great overcoat over a high white collar and great shoes.

Quite the trifecta, no?
 

The Art of Lingerie

I’ve loved lingerie for as long as I can remember. I used to steal borrow my mom’s slips and nightgowns when I was little and when I got older she used to bribe me to go to the dentist with trips to the Nordstrom intimates section. That lasted through college actually… 🙂

Vintage - Marilyn Monroe!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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I’m not sure what first intrigued me about lingerie, perhaps it was the bombshell glamour evoked in the movies I grew up with. Grace Kelly’s nightgown in Rear Window, Take Back Your Mink from Guys & Dolls, Natalie Wood in Gypsy, or Marilyn Monroe in Some Like It Hot.

What I can say for certain though is that my love affaire with lingerie was consummated, if you will, when I lived abroad. It was everywhere, much more prevalent and “acceptable” than in the US, and I just couldn’t get enough. I wandered into all the little shops I could find in Paris, Madrid, Milan, and Rome. I still have a handful of the pieces that I found while I was there, including a gorgeous lavender dressing gown.

And regardless of what first inspired me this has been a love affaire that’s lasted 29 fabulous years, and at this point I have nightgowns, separates, slips, matching sets, and dressing gowns filling up my closet and an entire bureau stuffed satins, silks, and lace.

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In my experience lingerie can serve a woman in two distinct but interconnected ways – the way it makes her feel and the way it makes her look.

The right cut, color, fabric, and style can make you feel beautiful, glamorous, and sexy. And I’m not just talking about pieces that you’re wearing for someone else, I’m talking about the simple pleasure of sleeping with the feel of satin against your skin or feeling soft lace wrap around your ankles when you take a step. It doesn’t have to be about anyone but yourself!

In addition to making you feel fabulous the right undergarments can make your clothes fit and look even better. It doesn’t matter whether you favor Lily of France, Victoria’s Secret, La Perla or Agent Provocateur, it’s about finding pieces that complement your body type, personal style, and the clothes in your wardrobe. And for whomever invented shapewear (Spanx anyone?) deserves a medal, those glorious garments can hide all manner of sins.

However, despite my love of lingerie the “lingerie as clothing” trend is one that I must caution you to be careful with. Outside of Halloween it can be hard to pull off wearing stand alone pieces as clothing a la Easy A.

Easy A

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That being said, you can evoke the same boudoir feel by wearing a lacy cocktail dress, pieces with sheer panels, satin and silk, or even by layering a bustier in your look.

The lacy layers of this dress make it simultaneously sweet & naughty

Source Needs some inspiration for adding a sexy, boudoir flare to an outfit? Check out Giorgio Armani’s Fall 2011 Boudoir runway show or these sumptuous advertisements that were influences by beautiful, retro lingerie.   

 

  With the luxurious cuts, delicious fabrics, and just a hint of bedroom glamour, these clothes are a treat for the senses and a great way to indulge your lingerie fantasies in the real world. Do you love lingerie too? How do you feel about daytime wear?


Let’s Hear it for the Boys!

In my opinion men’s fashion can be more classic and long-standing than its female counterpart, the cuts are more enduring and the underlying style more deeply rooted. This means putting your money into well made, classic pieces is the best way to approach your closet, since you’ll be able to wear them for years to come.

So what, do you ask, should today’s modern man have in his closet?

  • Once you’re out of school, a good suit is a must. Interviews, weddings, funerals, work/charity events, and perhaps even the occasional date (think Valentine’s Day/Anniversary) can all call for a suit. Black, navy or charcoal are all a good choices, though I must admit that I’m a sucker for a great pinstripe suit. I’m also a fan of a classic three-piece suit, I love how they still manage to look clean and put together even with the jacket off and the sleeves rolled up.

  • Button-downs are extremely versatile and have a place in any well-rounded wardrobe. Pair with slacks or a suit for (semi) formal affaires, with jeans and dress shoes for Friday night cocktails or untucked over well-worn shorts with loafers (sans socks) for summertime. Like I said, versatile.

So invest! Stripes, solids, pastels, black, white, slim fit, logo, patterned, linen, cotton… Whatever suits your build, coloring, and lifestyle, it’s time to put your money where your shirt is! 🙂

  • T-Shirts are somewhat of a touchy subject for me. While basic shirts can be a great staple for a man’s closet, they should not all be graphic or novelty shirts, nor should they be riddled with holes and look like they belong in a rag pile. I don’t care how many memories they hold! (Does that sound like a line I’ve used before? Cuz is it is…)

Depending on your build and lifestyle, different styles will suit you best. For his downtime my brother loves vintage rock shirts, like the one above, and with his build (tall & muscular but lean) they suit him perfectly. My dad favors the Robert Barakett shirts that Nordstrom carries because they’re soft with a relaxed fit and can keep up with him whether he’s walking around downtown or gardening (oh, the joys of retirement). And while he may respectfully disagree, I have to say that in my humble opinion my boyfriend looks the best in the Lacoste V-Neck Jersey Tees.

So take your significant other, sister, mom or friend shopping with you and try on some different styles. To each their own!

  • Polo shirts are a great middle ground between a t-shirt and a button down. They can add a bit of structure to a look while retaining an overall low-key air. Throw one over jeans with loafers or pair with shorts and flip-flips. You can even pop that collar if you’re in the mood.

Like t-shirts and button downs, these come in all shapes, sizes and colors. Once you’ve found a brand that fits you perfectly, you can order online to your heart’s desire, but you should definitely put in the in-store research before getting mouse happy.

  • A complete closet should contain a few types of bottoms, namely slacks, jeans and shorts, if applicable to your climate. At least one pair of black slacks are a requirement, however depending on how often you dress up you should consider investing in multiple pairs. Charcoal, navy and a neutral color like khaki or tan are right behind black in importance. Wool, cashmere and linen for dressing up and seersucker, cotton and linen blends for play.

When you hit the store for any pants shopping be sure to take the shoes you’ll most frequently wear with them. A good pair of slacks or jeans can be expensive, so you don’t want to buy them too long and ruin them in a matter of weeks by walking all over the hems. Also, keep in mind the tailoring is a great option, it’s fairly inexpensive and can make your pant last much longer.

  • I adore accessories for men, you gentlemen prefer to buy one or two great ones and leave it at that (none of the female shoe insanity!) A black and a brown belt, same for shoes, a pair of sunglasses, a wallet and a large silver, gold or leather band watch and you’re done. Easy peasy! (Obviously, this is not applicable to rappers)

The key for mens accessories is finding quality, classic pieces that can be worn season after season. Unfortunately this may require trips to multiple stores. I know – I’m sorry! Take the time though, as much as it takes, and you wont regret it.

Now before I leave you to your shopping adventures, I’d like to make an introduction.

If you’ve never heard of The Sartorialist, let me introduce you. Boys, meet Scott Schuman, the brilliant and fashionable photographer behind the wildly popular street style website The Sartorialist. These days Mr. Schuman focuses his energies shooting photos of the unique and fashionable men & women he sees on the streets. New York, Milan, Paris, Sydney, Buenos Aires, London, Rome, Beijing… If you have any questions about pocket squares, popped collars, sleeve length, outerwear, hats, color combinations or men’s jewelry, he is your man!

One of my favorite men that Scott sometimes features after his trips to Milan is this oh-so-stylish Italian man

Love the aviator sunglasses. Love the v-neck shirts. Love the gold watch. Take notes kids, this is how it’s done!

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