Spring 2015: On the Fringe

After a winter filled with debilitating blizzards, slick roads and slushy aftermath, there is light at the end of the tunnel. With spring just around the corner, scheming an outfit that consists of more than an oversized sweater, pair of jeans and clunky snow boots won't be easy. For instant outfit inspiration, take a look at the Trendologist's picks for top spring 2015 trends.

Over the past few decades, fringe has garnered a nasty reputation.  With devotees such as the Brady Bunch (satirical family included), Cher and Dolly Parton, the tasseled frippery veers more kitschy than sleek. This spring; however, designers across the board revamped the embellishment to win over the hearts of even the most skeptical style savants. At Céline, Phoebe Philo made fringe minimalist-approved by subtly adding the loud touch to simple knit tank dresses. The result? A low risk, low effort way to amp your wardrobe game. At the opposite end of the spectrum lies the array of multicolored, leather fringe skirts by Sonia Rykiel. Paired with slouchy, borrowed from the boys sweaters, this alternative offers a cool girl vibe. Looking to integrate the theatrics of this fad with the runway's bohemian revival, Isabel Marant's  fringed dress with a rope-bound waist perfectly blends the two. While Marant tapped into this trend's softer side, boy-wonder design duo Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez opted for a sharp, geometric take at Proenza Schouler. Two toned strings, which hung from an intricately woven skirt, were matched with cut-out sweatshirts. But for those who are searching for an unapologetically girly way to wear this phenomenon, take a page from Giambattista Valli's lookbook and invest in a minidress that packs on the movement. From modern, to earthy, to unashamed feminine, there is no excuse not to give this trend a try.

Céline Look 4

Sonia Rykiel Look 19

Isabel Marant Look 31

Proenza Schouler Look 38

Giambattista Valli Look 14

1. Sea 2.Tamara Mellon 3. Zara 4. Rebecca Minkoff 5. J.Crew 6. Isabel Marant 7. Oscar de la Renta

When it comes to fringe, there's a fine line between being at the vanguard of spring fashion and channeling Thoroughly Modern Millie. Release your ensemble of any flapper undertones by opting for tassels in neutrals, or deep gem tones if you're looking to push the envelope. Whether you're  searching for a skirt or jacket, step away from the polyester to prevent your ensemble from appearing costumey and elect a more luxurious textile such as leather or suede.  As always, if you're not ready to take the style plunge, accessories continue to be an excellent launch point. A simple fringed sandal rejiggers an otherwise tame outfit while a tasseled earring will be utterly sophisticated with an evening gown.

Will you be exploring fringe benefits this spring? Sound off below.

Runway photos courtesy of Style.com

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Spring 2014 Trend: Patterned Jackets

Coats were huge for fall, literally and figuratively.  Not only did they monopolize last season's runways, but their volumes were incomparable. Carven and Céline debuted a series of pastel pieces while fashion heavyweights such as Prada and Rochas offered powerful alternatives with feminine florals and "girl next door" checkers. Lucky for us, this season's "it" jacket has the same high-octane impact. Style trailblazers, meet the patterned jacket. Consider it the spunky younger cousin to fall's statement coat, commanding attention from anyone and everyone in a mile radius. While Miu Miu and Eudon Choi boasted vibrant day jackets in feminine colors, Antonio Marras opted for mono-print landscapes throughout entire looks-- an artistic take on monochromatism. For a "borrowed from the boys" vibe,  Jil Sander Navy transferred punchy patterns onto sporty bomber jackets. If you don't have a penchant for energetic day coats and bombers, Phoebe Philo showcased a slew of heavy-weight tribal prints in wintry silhouettes. A key piece for seasons to come, don't you think?

Miu Miu Look 12

Eudon Choi Look 5

Antonio Marras Look 9

Jil Sander Navy Look 17

Céline Look 7

Though it's so easy to write this trend off as a phenomenon that's strictly reserved for zany fashionistas who love prints as much as Mary Katrantzou, think again! In fact, some of the chicest ways to sport this fad is by styling your statement jacket with clean neutrals or soft pastels. While a bold jacket against a monochromatic ensemble offers a striking contrast, there is some thing intriguingly mod about sporting pastels with this trend, preferably softer shades of the colors that are featured in your coat. But what if your wardrobe doesn't include a wide range of hues? Nothing says effortlessly chic quite like a statement jacket, white tee, distressed jeans, and strappy heels. Voilà! An easy, yet completely covetable, ensemble.

Mary Katrantzou biker jacket, $2,650 / Thakoon coat / Etro box jacket, $1,425 / Tanya Taylor blue plaid jacket, $720 / Anna Sui wool blend cape / Long bomber jacket, $585

What do you think of this trend? Sound off below!

All runway photos courtesy of Style.com

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13 Favorite Runway Looks of 2013

Whether you're dashing from show to show or examining every look on Style.com, fashion month is the ultimate time for style savants to gush over the latest silhouettes, most delicious fabrics, and best emerging trends. But after thousands of looks, which have obviously been curated in your fashion-forward Pinterest boards, it's hard to remember every pleat, trouser, and shoe that sashays down the catwalk. However, there are some runway ready ensembles that are so ingrained into your memory that you can't get them out of your head.  In no particular order, here are the top 13 looks that will inspire me well into 2014.

Proenza Schouler Spring 2014 RTW, Look 21: I dare you to tell me you don't adore everything that Lorenzo Hernandez and Jack McCollough design. You can't, right? Exactly. The Parsons classmates turned Proenza Schouler masterminds always deliver perfectly au courant pieces. While their entire spring collection was to die for, I have a (not-so) healthy obsession with the finale looks. A cross bodice with metallic pleats? Perfection. What I love so much about this look is that it's unapologetically now and anyone who has a penchant for divine threads will adore this. Lauren Santo Domingo was spotted rocking a similar look from the spring collection as was Rooney Mara. And with the help of any secret admirer with endless connections and cash, I will also happily wear this look. But in cream, please. Wouldn't this make for the perfect New Year's Eve ensemble? 

Belstaff Pre-Fall 2014, Look 16: Bells and whistles asides, it's always comforting to see something on the runway that not only you would wear on a daily basis, but you can also copy with the clothes you already own. For me, this ensemble hit the nail on the head. Head to toe, I love this look so much that I can envision myself wearing it any day of the week (if weather permits). Belstaff has come such a long way since its waterproof jacket days, and I sincerely admire designers who can still make fashion upscale, yet accessible, to the masses. Brava!

Chloé Fall 2013 RTW, Look 3: I've been something of a cape fanatic for a couple years now. It all started with a short purple cape that I sported on my very first trip to London. In no time, my mere fascination accelerated into an obsession. Whether it was a black cape from a local boutique or a plaid cape on Brick Lane, I became so enamored with the feminine, yet powerful, image that capes brought. Isn't it about time Olivia Pope wears capes on the daily? A vibrant blue that stands out amongst a sea of black, this cape caught my eye months ago. When I saw it in person this summer, my feelings only increased. Paired with a sleek black dress and versatile boots, this look best exemplifies how to wear a cape without looking like an old maid.

Céline Fall 2013 RTW, Look 25: In case you didn't receive the memo, plaid was very big this fall. From Saint Laurent to Moschino, everyone was giving this lumberjack print a very chic makeover. Without a doubt, my favorite example of this trend was Céline's luxe tartan pieces. The traditional silhouette was paired with checks that gave us a new way to look at plaid. Phoebe Philo's heavy emphasis on the white lines offered a dash of minimalist modernity. The otherwise neutral ensemble made this a look that anyone could wear. It's perfect for the ambitious career woman, the Park Avenue housewife who is stopping by the latest PTA meeting before going out to eat, and even that downtown gal who's forced to go to an uptown gala. Try imagining yourself in this outfit. I promise you'll like what you see. 

Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Spring 2014 RTW, Look 17: On a day-to-day basis, what fashionista doesn't want to wear an effortlessly chic ensemble? Exactly. No fuss, just fashion. I adore this look because it's the perfect way to get a high-octane impact without trying too hard. Whether you're going to work or a coffee date, this ensemble is the ideal way to tell onlookers that you're up to date with trends but don't need to flaunt them.

Christian Dior Spring 2014 RTW, Look 58: At first, it was an alarming combination: Raf Simons and Christian Dior. While the former is synonymous with pure minimalism, style spectators always know that Dior will provide feminine ensembles with a modern twist. Would Simons give the design house yet another New Look? While Simons has a perspective that is very different from his predecessor, John Galliano, his designs have yet to disappoint me. While his latest spring collection seemed promising, it wasn't until the slew of jacquard dresses that I knew I was in love. A far cry from Simons's usual aesthetic, this dress revived Christian Dior's flouncy reputation while keeping it updated. Raf, you had me at the floral ambiance.

Tibi Spring 2014 RTW, Look 10: Over the past few seasons, I've had the pleasure of watching Tibi turn into a premier American brand. While Tibi used to be the go-to line for flirty tea dresses and fun prints, I love the sportswear direction Amy Smilovic has taken. Without a doubt, the spring collection was my favorite Tibi show thus far. With a nature loving theme, I adore how this look channels street style modernity through a very "back to the basics" lens. If you give me an easy one-piece, I'll be happy; however, Smilovic's use of contrasting fabrics and accessories made this one look I will never forget.

Valentino Fall 2013 Couture, Look 47: Out of all the official couture design houses, Valentino always amazes me with its hypnotizing patterns, bevy of slim-fitting silhouettes, and all-around regal air. Everything about this dress screams "Dainty Princess." Even though it is entirely sheer, the modest undergarments prevent an outlandishly sultry moment. It's one of the looks that is so special, it should probably be in an everything-proof vault or framed. Thank you, Pierpaolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri, thank you very much.

Carven Fall 2013 RTW, Look 25: Fall was the season of the coat. Though Carven featured gorgeous coats in dreamy pastels, this camel look is my favorite by far. There's something so standard about a camel ensemble; however, I strongly believe this hue is one of the most underestimated neutrals around. I love how this look is so sleek, yet the light pink and tan cracked top makes this more than another minimalist ensemble. Plus, those shoes are just divine! 

Dries Van Noten Spring 2014 RTW, Look 47: To be perfectly honest, it's impossible to categorize your style into one overarching adjective. You consider yourself "girly" until you swoon over a tough Balenciaga leather jacket. You're "classic" until you take a look at Prada's latest spring collection. And you're "minimalist" until you fall head over heels in love with Dries Van Noten's spring ruffles and dramatics pleats. I adore a clean, tailored ensemble; however, this look gives a neat look a frilly edge. Of course, you could never wear this look to the grocery store, however, Dries Van Noten gifts us with a relatively somber silhouette that doesn't compromise his extravagant collection. The long shorts are very Calvin Klein sleek while the top is reminiscent of something you would normally sport at the couture shows. The result? An outfit that deserves a standing ovation.

Stella McCartney 2014 Resort, Look 4: Every few seasons, there comes a collection that is 100 percent perfect. From the python print, to the embellished threads, to the floral patterns, Stella McCartney's cruise collection was just that. While the prints were indisputably feminine, McCartney pairs them with modern (and sometimes tomboyish) shapes. This look perfectly captures McCartney's design aesthetic for the cruise collection:
girly and current. I would like one of everything, please.

Altuzarra Spring 2014 RTW, Look 29: If Joseph Altuzarra's spring collection wasn't the most buzzed about New York collection, I don't know what was. Between the swarm of languid skirts and show-stopping metallics, this group of looks demand your undivided attention. I love this look because it combines the two focal trends from Altuzarra's collection without being too abrasive. To keep the attention on the gorgeous clothes, Altuzarra finishes this look with a pair of simple pumps. From date night to a charity gala, this look is the ultimate ensemble for any city's "It Girl."

Balenciaga Spring 2014 RTW, Look 37: If you didn't love enough Alexander Wang's eponymous brand label, he's been doing wonders at Balenciaga. Wonders, I say! For example, his spring collection was a perfect 

mélange of Wang's cutting-edge aesthetic and Balenciaga's high expectations. Old and new come together with this look: the silhouette is quite traditional, but sheer skirt mixed with the embellished dress bring something new to the table. J'adore!

Which runway looks did you love this year? Sound off below! 

All photos courtesy of Style.com

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Fall 2013: Trendy Tartan

Let's play a quick round of word association, shall we? When you think of the word "plaid," there's a good chance "lumberjack," "school girl," or "blasé hipster" comes to mind. This fall, designers are gifting us with a new word to associate with plaid: chic. Um, what? The notoriously macho pattern is revitalized with sleek, feminine, and ultra-sexy silhouettes as well as unexpected fabrics (and by unexpected fabrics, I obviously mean no flannel). It seems as if the sartorial table has turned, as tartan is no longer something you throw on when you're craving a lazy day ensemble. Instead, plaid is for tastemakers who want to make a statement.

Stella McCartney

                                                          Céline

Fausto Puglisi

Moschino

Saint Laurent

Whether you're ready to rock head-to-toe tartan or prefer starting of small with a punch of plaid, this trend has something for every style savant. Though a red/black combo is the most universal color palette for plaid, put your brave face on and  spice up your wardrobe with tartan in a creamy grey or shocking yellow. If you're easing into this trend, couple some printed shoes or a plaid bag with a monochromatic ensemble in a neutral hue-- black, white, grey, or cream are fabulous options. Though tops and skirts in this zesty pattern are on trend, life's too short not to embrace this trend to the fullest. If my inspirational words failed to persuade you, sporting a completely plaid ensemble prevents an embarrassing "naughty schoolgirl" moment. Perhaps I'm a little too obsessed with Céline's fall collection, but my favorite way to sport this trend is with this jaw-dropping plaid jacket. Two amazing trends in one outfit? So major. 

Moschino dress / Harvey Faircloth dress / Elizabeth and James metallic silver shirt / Roksanda Ilincic tweed coat / Alaïa skirt / Lightweight cotton pants / Alice + Olivia alice olivia skirt / Cole Haan pumps / Joie shoes / Marc by Marc Jacobs plaid purse / Comme des Garçons plaid handbag

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Fall 2013 Trend: Oversized Coats

So long spring, hello fall. After months of sherbet hues and spicy ruffles, it's officially time for autumn-approved trends. As always, I'm here to give you the low-down on what to wear this chilly season. Get ready, fashionistas: the fall trends guide has arrived.

A necessity for when the temperatures drop, sporting a heavy jacket is always a fall must. With an oversized shape, coats are more of a statement piece this season. Masculinity meets femininity, as sharp lapels and closures are doused in dreamy pastels.  This boys versus girls fad sends a very clear message: contrary to popular belief, you can have it all-- sartorially, that is.

Louis Vuitton

Céline

Prada

Carven

Rochas

Unlike some of spring's best trends--ruffles, tie-dye, and the list goes on-- this trend is for the drama-free minimalist of the fashion world. But just because this string of coats calls for streamlined silhouettes doesn't mean your outfits have to be boring.  For a night on the town, pair your statement jacket with black skinnies, black booties, and a black top. Craving a ladylike outfit? This trend will be office-appropriate with a pencil skirt and modest heels or stylish loafers. And if you're seriously itching for an "off the charts" ensemble, take a note from Louis Vuitton's fall collection and combine clashing prints. But instead of striving to create a loud getup, focus on luxe patterns. As for the accessories, pair this look with structured pieces: a sleek choker, retro handbag, and a classic pair of cat-eye sunnies are some great options. But beware tastemakers: you're probably going to get a lot of compliments on your classic ensemble. After the twentieth compliment you receive, realize that I told you so, smile, and say "thank you."

Burberry oversized wool coat / STELLA McCARTNEY coat / Mango coat / Little Remix Coatcard wool jacket, $265

So what do you think of this trend? I'm dying to know!
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All runways photos courtesy of Style.com

The Weekly: Going the Distance

If someone is not aware how badly I want to see the new movie, Going the Distance, they definitely do not know me: every time I see a simple commercial or advertisement, I get really emotional and start a whole rant about how good that movie looks. Justin Long is adorable, it just looks good, and it speaks to me, being in a semi-long distance relationship. But yeaaahh I really want to see it.

So anyways, I went to college this weekend. Yeah, scary. I was debating on what to wear for a move in day: I wanted to look fashionable and be functional at the same time, so why not a romper? And my new hat? Good, right? WRONG. My so-called romper, which isn't even on the Urban website anymore, RIPPED. The first time wearing it. FML. But it was a good thought so oh well. It's interesting, though, to see how other people dress (maybe a blog about that).

Onto the weekly looks:

• Drew Barrymore at the Going the Distance LA Premiere. To quote Rachel Zoe, I DIED when I saw this. DIED I TELL YOU. This Catherine  Malandrino is so incredible and that semi-studded belt is so fabulous. I’m not the biggest fan of the matching pumps but she seriously looks like a beachy diva goddess. Her jewels look great and I LOVE THIS.
• Kate Beckinsale at the Going the Distance Premiere also! I love this little black and white  Versace number. She took an  unexpected turn with a LWD. The black pockets are new and exciting. I think that Beckinsale always has spot on fashion so it was definitely a relief to see this. Although I wish her accessories pushed the envelope a bit more, she’s still STUNNING.
• Jessica Alba at the Machete  premiere. I LOVE THIS BALMAIN. Black and gold is such a typical color combination, but the zig-zag pattern really spiced it up. And the strappy shoes were strong enough to work with this dress and definitely sexed it up. I love love LOVED this combo. It was so fall which I was totally loving! 
• 08/27/2010- Celine “Look of the Day”. I love this look. The white turtle neck. I also love this juxtaposition of a rough fabric being tiered. Tiered dresses, in my opinion, are so flattering. I usually think Celine things are boring but I’m LOVING this. Usually, I hate minimalism, but I think this one is unique enough for it to work.

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