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Archive for the ‘Fashion’ Category

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All Hail McQueen!

In Designers, Fashion on July 24, 2010 at 11:59 am

Leave it to Haute Couture for always taking my breath away. After writing my last blog post, I fell in love with fashion all over again! I felt a major “fashion craving” and what was on the menu, you may ask? Three fashion magazines to read: Elle, Vogue and Marie Claire. Soon after reading and admiring everything these magazines offer to eager fashion lovers like me (oh, how I felt like a fat kid with cake), I couldn’t help to think about the talented designers who create magic in magazines and on the runway. One fashion designer in particular who will always be missed: Alexander McQueen.

Alexander McQueen shows were known for their emotional power and energy on the runway. His collections always stood out beautifully and romantically but still had a contemporary nature about them. I was blown away admiring McQueen’s last collection! Like always, it was stunning! He successfully combined elements of tradition with modernity and strength with fragility. The collection is inspired by the Old Masters of painting… Oh yes, I’m in heaven! If I’ve said it once, I’ll say it again, I love the deep inspirations and meanings behind a designer’s work especially if it’s related to art. The pieces were rich and filled with color and texture. Each piece is unique, as was McQueen. All of the patterns were cut by McQueen before he died on February 11, 2010 then the fashion house had to complete what was left behind for Paris Fashion Week.

I’ve added something to my birthday wish list, these heels in the video below! I’ve fallen head over heels in love with… well, all of them! I didn’t say my birthday wish list was small.. by the way, it’s August 8th! The heels with the embroidered multi-color crystals over a gold bottom (in the video, these are matched with the gold dress that’s above) – my favorite! The feather heels – also on the top of my list! Love, love, love all of them! I’m so head over heels in love with these stunning McQueen shoes!

This video is all around breathtaking – beautiful music, stunning pieces, shoes to die for and overall capturing the true beauty of Alexander McQueen’s work. All hail McQueen!

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Showing the Inside Out: The Graphic Cuff

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on July 20, 2010 at 3:47 pm

Over the years, jeans have become a bit more complex. We used to have very few options when it came to jean styles-boot cut or loose fit. However, through inspiration from music and celebrities, the turn of the millenium has brought us more jean styles we could possibly even ask for. I actually find it challenging to shop for jeans now-a-days. Especially when shopping at Gap. Their options are endless…stretch, jeggings, bootcut, skinny, curvy, long and lean.

The newest edition to the jean library at Gap has you taking what’s on the inside and showing it out; the graphic cuff jeans. You would cuff the bottom of your jeans to reveal a whimsical bird graphic. This means, you will be drawing  attention to your ankles so I recommend not only pairing your new graphic cuff jeans with fabulous shoes but always remembering to accessorize so consider some trendy ankle bracelets. The graphic cuff jeans can be dressed up or dressed down.

So, on your next shopping adventure, be sure to visit a Gap near you and explore the galore of jean styles, especially the graphic cuff jeans!

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The Future Fashionista’s of the World

In Designers, Fashion on July 19, 2010 at 1:30 am

You can always count on generation X, Y, and Z to indulge in the world of Gucci, Prada and Fendi. However, fashion power houses are looking out their windows into today and into the future of the next suggested generation, Generation Alpha. Mom’s, now you and your bambino can sport luxury clothing while out on the town.

Designer Silvia Venturini Fendi, of Fendi has transformed the runway into a scene out of Huckleberry Finn, with a forest decor, wooden hut, blue sky and the sound of tweeting birds- no, not the tweeters in the front row either. As the children strut down the runway debuting Fendi’s new spring children’s wear collection, they were accessorized with fishing poles and rabbit tails.

For the Fendi girls’ collection natural fabrics in a palette of soft colors like pearl gray, powder pink and chalk-white were used to match the summer hues of yellow, pink and green. Small checkered bloomers, floral print dresses and soft pale color tops make up the girls’ line.

As for the boys, army green, sand beige, pearl grey and powder blue checked shirts and Harrington-style bombers give a casual and playful inspiration to the boys’ collection. However, I wouldn’t suggest letting your little one actually roll around outside for it’s still Fendi, therefore, it’s not cheap.

So moms, consider starting your little ‘tot’ early in life by introducing them to friends like Christian Dior and Fendi.

Currently, the Fendi children’s wear is only sold overseas and exclusively through Jamari International of New York. To view the spring collection visit www.jamariltd.com

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Material Girl

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on July 14, 2010 at 5:47 am

I remember as a little girl, cutting the finger tips off of my gloves, taking my mothers mini cross-body handbag and tying a knot at the end because it was way too long for me. Also, I recall dressing in layers and looking as if I threw everything in my closet on -this was during the 80’s. However, as history repeats itself, so does fashion history.  The 80’s style is back and being transmitted through a true 80’s stylista herself, Madonna.

Her new fashion line, Material Girl portrays some of the singers most memorable looks such as lace tops, tulle skirts, like a virgin-bustier tops that trickle back from the “Express Yourself” video.  Looking for a “Papa Don’t Preach” look? There’s a leather jacket, denim jeans and striped top.  However, the collection is not just a trip down memory lane for Madonna’s greatest fashion hits, it’s actually a reflection of a modern-day ‘Material Girl’, Lourdes Leon, Madonna’s daughter which is working closely together with her mother on the development of the junior line.

The line will be sold in 200 Macy’s throughout the United States. Material Girl will launch August 3rd and then will reveal the face for the collection in which Madonna hand-picked herself to resemble a true modern-day ‘Material Girl’. Although they are keeping lips sealed on who the celebrity teen face for the collection will be, you can visit www.materialgirlcollection.com to get a preview of the collection. The photos only reveal from the neck down but it’s clear that the ‘Material Girl’ has blonde hair…umm maybe Taylor Swift or Ashley Tisdale?

The Material Girl collection includes apparel such as, denim motorcycle jackets, tulle miniskirts, boyfriend blazers, lots of lace and crop tops. Footwear, handbags, hair accessories and jewelry. Oh, and there is a bodysuit within the collection-now that’s an opinion-maker.

“A material girl is a girl that is interested in fashion and interested in music and interested in fun. She has a sense of humor and is an adventurous human being.” Madonna, WWD.

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The Perfect Shoe

In Designers, Fashion on July 14, 2010 at 5:25 am

Marilyn once made it quite clear that “diamonds are a girl’s best friend.”  With that said, I think it is safe to say that a perfect heel is not far behind.  If your average stiletto is a friend, consider a Louboutin heel your guardian angel.  Often seen on the perfectly pedicured feet of popular starlets, Christian Louboutin heels are often seen in sky-high versions of satin and in the fanciest form, embellished with dazzling crystals.

From the most recent collection, a stiletto bootie features a sheer upper with flame-like crystal detail.  Unlike many shoe designers, Louboutin does not stop dazzling when the heel is reached.  Fabulously colored crystals envelope the heel, which also reveals the famous red color on the inside.  Such intense sparkle may be meant for evening, but I would suggest showing this incredible piece off for any daily activity.

From the same collection, a stiletto sandal features shocking pink and metallic gold with similar crystals decorating the heel.  Perfect for that hot new night spot, this shoe will certainly be the center of attention.

If sexy heights and exquisite details strike your fancy, there is absolutely no better choice than Christian Louboutin.  Never ignore your diamonds, but make sure your other friend gets an invite, as well.

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Shoulder Jewelry

In Fashion, Trends on July 12, 2010 at 2:16 am

There is nothing worse than when it comes to wearing a cami to show off your flirtatious shoulders but instead they are camouflaged by a bra strap. Especially if the bra strap isn’t the same color as the cami…yuck! You could just wear a strapless bra but I find a sense of security when my shoulders hold up my boulders, small boulders that is – tsk tsk.

Thanks to Cole Spencer, one of our very own Fashion Week Tampa Bay fans, I have been introduced to a new way to show off your shoulders without the shameful exposure of a plain, dull bra strap. Decorative bra straps! Strappys.com provides bra straps that are more like shoulder jewelry. Hand beaded straps that are durable along with jewelry straps such as a strap with pink roses and crystals can be paired with a pink cami to transform your outfit and look as if it’s a part of your shirt.

Not only are the straps trendy but they are functional as well. Now you can stop the slip-sliding straps from falling down by replacing them with a beaded, fabric or rhinestone strap. The decorative straps can be attached to any strapless or convertible bra.

Getting married soon or just know someone who is? Strappys.com even has bridal bra straps. Thanks, Cole for the fashion scoop!

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Galliano Churns Out Pure Magic

In Designers, Events, Fashion, Trends on July 9, 2010 at 3:17 pm

There are almost no words to describe the sheer joy that comes from hearing the phrase, “couture collection.”  That being said, John Galliano has yet again exceeded expectations with his couture collection for Fall 2010.

In Paris this past week, Galliano’s collection for the House of Christian Dior blossomed quite literally onto the runway.  With a vivid floral theme, models emerged in tulip-shaped silhouettes and breathtaking colors.

One look in particular featured a beautifully soft textured blazer in robin’s egg blue which displayed an exaggerated shawl collar.  The waist was tied with a very unique gold belt and led down to a full black skirt with bubble hem.  As if this ensemble were not enough to tempt the eye, the skirt also features a side embellishment of wonderfully realistic flowers in lilac and yellow.  Another dress appeared in shiny black with a vintage, off-the-shoulder design and sheer overlay at the skirt which seemed to transcend into one large, pink petal.  Worn with shocking pink gloves, this look was simply divine.

While many fall collections tend to feature warm, yet sometimes dull earth tones, this was certainly not the case in the House of Dior.  A gown more vibrant than any exotic flower arrangement presented with a full length skirt shaped in tiny tiers of exquisite teal silk.  The strapless bodice revealed a purple floral print and transitioned quite nicely with a large, artistic bow in neon yellow.

John Galliano is a true innovator with a mind that continually churns out pure magic.  If not one piece in this collection of literal silhouettes and mind-blowing color tickles your senses, I would suggest an immediate medical consultation.

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Haute Couture 2010: Givenchy

In Designers, Fashion, Trends on July 9, 2010 at 2:14 am

Death, religion, and sensuality. Provocative topics for cocktail conservation with close friends, and for fashion as well. Starting points for Givenchy’s creative director, Riccardo Tisci, these themes transform beautifully into the haute couture 2010 collection.

Spending the time to gaze and appreciate the wonderment of fashion is really important to me. I’m all about the little details and inspiration that lie deep within a designers work. It’s one of the many reasons why couture fashion has my heart! The collection contains ten fantastic looks themed around Frida Kahlo’s art, which explains the corsets, religious symbolism and the idea of human bones that come out of her artwork. To the naked eye, the collection seems pretty and romantic but it’s far from that. The collection is certainly beautiful artwork of its own but beauty doesn’t have to be pretty… “There’s no beauty without strangeness.” – Karl Lagerfeld.

Although the color palate is pale, this intensely worked collection is threaded with dark representation. To the left, this Givenchy haute couture dress resembles a crystal embroidery skeleton over a nude net dress with a metal belt symbolizing a spine. The other looks contain long languid dresses that flow to the floor, matched with a long sleeve jacket (either a blazer or a fur jacket). Riccardo Tisci really focused on intensifying the craftsmanship in this year’s haute couture collection. His workmanship and close attention to detail makes the collection more impressive and impactful to the fashion industry. This Givenchy woman is a showgirl who loves to show off her glamorous side and embodies wearable art. She is very confident and fashionable!

Like Givenchy, Jean Paul Gaultier also gave the illusion of human bones coming out of their collection. However, the Givenchy haute couture 2010 collection surpassed them all this season. Riccardo Tisci’s amazing craftsmanship with the crystal embroidery and unique pattern shapes really caught my eye. The beautiful inspiration behind their high fashion haute couture collection made it even better. I fell in love with haute couture fashion all over again!

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Ladie’s Night at the Denim Bar

In Fashion, Trends on July 7, 2010 at 9:48 am

Ladies, it’s time for happy hour, except we’re not going to the martini bar, we’re heading to the denim bar! Grab your laptops, iPads, or whatever internet access you have and get ready for a night of stonewashed finish in a skinny jean cut on the rocks with a twist.

I came across an incredible website where you can choose what type of jean cut style you prefer, whether it be skinny, flare or jeggings- leggings that look like jeans- an assortment of finishes including stonewash, forest wash, cavern wash and much more.  It’s called the denim bar and you can go there 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to get a quick denim fix by visiting  Madewell.com.

Madewell is a denim brand that started in the late 1930s. They have 17 locations in 12 states including New York, Georgia, California, and Massachusetts, where the company was founded. Recently they launched their online store so that no matter what state or country you were in, you can be a madewell chic!

The Madewell brand offers trendy styles that are cool and hip with a downtown-casual vibe infused with lots of denim. While navigating the site you will come across a few important links: Looks We Love and The Denim Bar. By clicking on the links, the site will take you on a tour of what’s hot for the season. So far I’ve been advised that cardigans will be a fall must have.

Although they specialize in denim, the brand doesn’t stop there. They have very fashionable tees and tanks, accessories and shoes, along with sweaters and jackets. It’s a one-stop shop for an entire look. Want to know the coolest way to wear skinny jeans this summer? Well, the site also turns into your very own stylist with a Denim Q&A link that provides frequently asked questions and answers about the styles.

Happy Shopping!

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Get a Workout While You Walk

In Fashion, Trends on July 5, 2010 at 7:00 am

Finding the time to workout can be even more challenging than actually working out. That doesn’t mean you have to give up and let your busy schedule get the best of you. I have come across a solution to this problem that’s not only smart, but fashionably friendly as well. The Fitflop sandal!  This sandal is bio-mechanically engineered to help tone and tighten your leg muscles while you walk. With a busy schedule, being able to multi-task at all times is imperative, so toning while sprinting to your next meeting is a fabulous idea!

Rebel style for Women

Along with toning and tightening leg muscles, the Fitflop can also improve posture and help reduce plantar’s foot pain, which can be caused by being on your feet all day for long periods of time. The Fitflop has a Microwobbleboard Technology that increases the time that your muscles are engaged every single time you take a step.  The heel of the sandal is a high density section that absorbs up to 22% more shock to help relieve joint stress. The mid-section creates instability which increases leg muscles activation up to 16%.

The Fitflop can be purchased on-line at Zappos.com or VictoriaSecrets.com or at your nearest Nordstrom or Macy’s. They range in price from $40.00-$100.00 with $59.99 being the most common price for the flip-flop style. A little pricy for a flip-flop but just think of how much money you could save on a gym membership. The Fitflop is not just for women, they offer styles for men and children. I have to say, the styles are very trendy. My favorite is the Rockstar Walkstar which has a dozen crystallized Swarovski elements. Unfortunately, this style is currently sold out, ugh!

Freeway style for Men

Whether you are hiking, working or shopping with your friends, you can do it in a Fitflop shoe and get a workout while you walk!