The 8 Best Looks From Fall Couture 2014

For the typical style savant, Couture Week is like Christmas, Hanukkah, Fourth of July, Valentine's Day, and your birthday rolled into a few days. With every show comes beautiful craftsmanship,  thought-provoking silhouettes, and extraordinary execution. While the looks that cascade down the couture catwalks don't directly translate to masses, you have to admit that they are some of the most beautiful runway shows of the year. Editing down hundred of outfits is no easy feat, but get your crash course in couture by taking a look at these eight jaw-dropping looks.

Armani Privé Look 8:  Couture shows aren't all about impressive beading and applique. Beautiful tailoring can be seen in even the most modern looks. Exhibit A? This super feminine alternative to a pantsuit. While the overall concept is undeniably classic, the voluminous trumpet sleeves revitalizes an otherwise safe look. Overall, Armani's collection juxatposed sleek matching separates with loofah-esque dresses and polka-dotted veils. Though the evening gowns are guarantees for several upcoming red carpets, there's nothing more refreshing than a crisp ensemble.

Christian Dior Look 48: It's no secret that Raf Simons is consistently killing it at Dior. With dashes of the brand's famous "New Look," the Creative Director meshes modernity and femininity to create the ultimate cool girl vibe. Though Simons's array of Marie Antoinette-inspired gowns started the show with a sartorial bang, it was the collection's fuss-free cocktail dresses that took center stage. Breezy shapes are paired with delicate beading and girlish applique. Consider these looks the essence of Simons's knockout couture collection: the perfect midpoint between lavish evening dresses and super hip pantsuits and minimalist coats. A far cry from last season's perforated dresses and flouncy silhouettes, this collection is proof that Simons does not dwell on the past. Instead, he always looks to the future.

Chanel Look 25: Leave it to Karl Lagerfeld to glamorize the mundane during each couture show. Last season was all about adding luxurious sneakers to girly minis. This time, the beauty of this collection was utilizing interesting fabrics. From sequins to a lace-silicone blend, this collection is just begging to be touched. With furry sleeves and a hypnotic tweed, Lagerfeld spices up the ever-so-basic column dress. However, the experimental dress gets Coco Chanel's stamp of approval with a matching hat. Ultra chic.

Elie Saab Look 39: Even the biggest Elie Saab fan will tell you that the French designer's couture collections always offer the same thing: embellished evening gowns that are regulars during awards season. While the predictability of these collections can be a little frustrating, you have to admit that the execution and results are always impressive. Lately, Saab has been toying with embroidery and paneling in addition to his signature beading. The off-the-shoulder neckline, subtle slit and rich craftsmanship offers something new while staying true to his trademark aesthetic. While the industry is always gasping for a breath of fresh air, it never hurts to have one designer that you can always depend on.

Giambattista Valli Look 1: Without fail, Giambattista Valli always strives to redefine his "girl" during couture season. Last fall, she was a feminine warrior with painted florals and iron accessories. Just one season ago, she was a little more eclectic with bow-tied skirts and high-octane jewel tones. However, Valli's latest couture show took a stroll down memory lane. With hint of  the traditional shirtdress, retro full skirts, and classic hair wraps, the latest collection felt like a reincarnation of Grace Kelly's impeccably clean style. An asymmetrical shape with sharp stripes, Valli's opening look set the tone for the whole collection (with no questions asked). Further into the runway show, the designer played with intriguing textures; however, this collection proves that first impressions do matter.

Maison Martin Margiela Look 7: In the world of couture, Maison Martin Margiela is the spunky younger sibling. Though the brand's collections may not promise red carpet-worthy ensembles like Elie Saab, Margiela offers an artistic look at couture. Between jeweled masks and unexpected patchwork, this collection is anything but traditional. But in the midst of all the chaos lies a look that beautifully captures the craziness of Margiela with couture's stereotypical beauty. Though polka dots and florals don't generally seem like a print match made in heaven, the different densities of each fabric makes this strong combination easy on the eyes. The netted mask and geometric earrings give this look a perfectly whimsical finishing touch.

Valentino Look 60: Over the past few seasons, design duo Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli have been incorporating more streamlined, monotoned looks into their couture collections. However there's always a sheer embellished number that provides the perfect princess moment. And in a sea of new-aged florals and bold belts, it was one of Valentino's final looks that ultimately offered the "wow" factor. Sheer without the scandal, this look teeters between sexy and sophisticated. Though the silhouette is nothing new, Valentino gives a basic shape some depth with monochromatic clashing prints: the ethereal side panels perfectly complement the tribal pattern on the front of the dress. Tres chic.

Viktor & Rolf Look 15: Every season, there's one couture collection is so insanely creative, it is pure genius. For fall, that collection is none other than Viktor & Rolf. With carpet textures and towel dress shapes, Viktor Horsting and Rolf Snoeren strayed away from the conventional this time around. Though it takes a special style savant to sport a towel-inspired dress, this look makes the untraditional incredibly wearable. The patches of carpet fuzz offer a subtle risk while the sharp silhouette makes this dress perfect for the red carpet. If any dress from this collection is going to reach commercialized status, it's this number.

Which couture looks are you loving? Sound off below!

All runway photos courtesy of Style.com

xx

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

xx

Couture is Haute Again!

I'm literally beaming: this is the first time in a while that  I've been unbelievably pleased with couture. Most of the collections are innovative and the looks are breath-taking. Literally, breath-taking..Consequently,  it makes picking my absolute favorite collections that more difficult.

Christian Dior 

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It's official: I now have faith in Bill Gaytten. His previous couture collection almost made me sick to my stomach. While I'm a strong proponent for removing John Galliano after his scandal,  Dior's Couture Fall 2011 left me confused and genuinely upset. Spring 2012, on the other hand, is brilliant. The looks are less..volumized. Even though the silhouettes were not as "in your face" as before, the detailing, structure, and execution of each piece is definitely worth talking about. While these looks are definitely more wearable than your typical avant garde creations,the details really make this collection "couture worthy." The sheer looks bring out old school glamour  with  a hint of sex appeal. And those extravagant evening gowns? They definitely pay homage to Christian Dior himself while adding a modern twist. This collection actually makes me excited to see what else Gaytten has up his sleeve.

Givenchy

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I've been a little tired of Givenchy couture lately: for the past few collections, I felt as if  Riccardo Tisci gave us the same beautiful, white, and ethereal dresses. Sure, each dress is gorgeous; however, I was feeling a major case of deja vu.  As a skeptical New Yorker, I love me some black, so the white was a lot for me to take in.  This collection was just what I was looking for: dark colors and edgy detailing to-boot! One thing that I love about Tisci is that he really cares how a couture look appears from any and every angle: he puts just as much- if not, more- effort in the the backs of his creations . In addition to playing with color, Tisci also toyed with different necklines, materials, and silhouettes. The amount of variety Tisci put into this collection is absolutely inspring. Also, I really want Rooney Mara to wear this one.

Elie Saab

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Honestly, there's not much Elie Saab does that I hate. I know  I talk a lot about edgy attire; however, I am and will always be a girly girl. With every collection, Saab brings us beautiful silhouettes, feminine colors, and red carpet hits. Couture Spring 2012 strays away from his latest RTW collection by brining us gorgeous pastels. Although some of the colors and concepts are eerily reminiscent of Marc Jacobs' Resort 2012 collection, I don't mind. Mint is all the rage lately, so Saab is right on trend.  One thing that I love about Saab is his ability to perfectly pair details and silhouettes together. For example, he usually designs either a detailled, column dress or a volumized dress that's simpler. Ladies and gent, this is a collection to watch out for: we're going to see a lot of these looks again.

Valentino 

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By now, you should know how I feel about long sleeves. If you're new to my oh-so fabulous blog, let me break it down for you: I would wear sleeves all of the time if I could.  So obviously, I loved Valentino's latest couture collection. In this collection, Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri utilize the use of sleeves- thank the fashion gods- and make them stylish. I love the patterns and out-of-this world detailing that accompany the sleeves. This collection radiates delicacy and femininity, which I love. 

Giambattista Valli

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I have a borderline inappropriate obsession with Giambattista Valli.  In my humble opinion, couture should be all about wearable art.  Every couture collection, Giambattista goes above and beyond to give us the most beautiful wearable art.  For example, how brilliant is the pink evening gown with that full train? What a fabulous mix between Audrey Hepburn and a modern-day fashionista.  Can we talk about the ruffles on that minimalist jacket?  I don't think so: it's simply too good for words. All of these fantastic details make fashion what it should be: fun. Also, I love how prominent the contrast between black and white is in this collection: it makes the detailing more chic.   Giambattista Valli juxtaposes these phenomenal looks with simplistic silhouettes. I'm casually in love with Giambattista. 

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Luke-Warm Couture

I'm always so excited to see couture: the detail and the real artistic quality ceases to amaze me. Except for this season. Let it be known, ladies and gents, Fall 2011 Couture is one of the most disappointing couture seasons I have witnessed. I always wish that I grew up in the days of awesome couture. Hubert de Givenchy, need I say more? One day, I think to myself, fashion will retrieve back to the days of amazing couture. Still waiting. Now don't get me wrong, some of the couture collections were phenomenal, but they weren't incredible as a whole.  Now you're in for a little rant/ praise session.

CHRISTIAN DIOR

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Biggest disappointment of this season: Alber Elbaz, you're needed at Christian Dior . While Dior's couture is usually very similar in silhouette, each look is classy and chic. This, on the other hand, maintains some sof the previous silhouettes. And then some other stuff. Like that striped poncho?  Not a fan and I usually love ponchos! I think my main problem with this whole collection is how mismatched everything was. When done right, mismatched can be really chic and exude personal style. But when doen wrong,  as seen at Dior, it can look incredibly sloppy. And those 1970's inspired maxis towards the middle of the show? Where did that even come from? I'm sorry Bill Gaytten, but you're not impressing me.

GIVENCHY

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Givenchy couture never fails to have intricate details and universal approval. While this collection is beyond fabulous and beautiful, I feel like I've seen this collection before. Maybe Spring 2011 Couture?  And Fall 2010 Couture? Don't get me wrong, all three collections are gorgeous, but they're all too similar. Couture isn't supposed to be similar, it's supposed to be unique.  I'm really hoping to see something new next couture season. I'm thinking some color...

ARMANI PRIVE 

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Although I'm not a personal fan of this Asian-inspired collection, I will say that it's inspiration is focus and the collection, as a whole, is very cohesive. I do love collection cohesiveness so thank you, Giorgio! While the collection is very detailled, I don't really picture it hitting mainstream, which is kind of sad. The slick dress of Armani Prive's previous collection was so thought provoking and looked awesome on Anne Hathaway. Some of these looks, I think, will be good for editorials.  But I can't see anyone rocking these looks for the Emmys, Globes, SAGs, or  anything. 

GIAMBATTISTA VALLI

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Finally, this is the couture I was craving. Mr Valli is creating some amazing collections lately, I'm very impressed. From start to finish, this couture collection epitomizes glamour. And I think by now you must know how I feel about glamour.  Each and every piece has some artistic flare or intricate details that screams couture. Even the most basic looks have an  effortless allure to them, not just casual. There's something so effortlessly Parisian about some of the looks that I was smitten with. While I don't think she'd like full leopard ball gowns, some of these looks are so circa Audrey Hepburn, which I love.  Thank you, Mr. Valli for creating something truly amazing. Or else I probably would've gone into a fashion coma.

BOUCHRA JARRAR

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Boring, boring, and more boring. While I'm sure the execution of the looks were great, this is something I'd expect for Pre-Fall. I understand that big details might not be everyone's thing, but why spend time and money on a couture collection if you're going to produce anticouture? Where did the creativity go, Ms. Jarrar? Riddle me that.

CHANEL

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I think it's safe to say that Chanel made a comeback since its disappointing Resort show (okay...well I thought it was disappointing).  From classic suits to amazing gowns, Karl Lagerfeld gave us a lot to work with, literally. There were 69 looks!  While each look embodied its own personality, for lack of a  better term, the entire collection paid homage to Coco Chanel's original idea of a modernized and classic woman. Take the suits, for example: they are all so ladylike and the tweed is undeniably Chanel, but the silhouettes on some give this classic look a  splash of millenium style. The detailing  and artistic innovation of this collection makes it truly couture worthy. Beyond impressive. 

ELIE SAAB

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Besides the phrase "Winter Wonderland," I would describe this Saab collection as "a slew of Red Carpet looks." I guess my inner Rachel Zoe was coming out because I was thinking up potential celebrities to wear these dresses. I can't really say anything about the details or the technique because it's typical Elie Saab. In terms of the actual looks, I didn't expect anything more or less. It was just...typical Elie Saab. Although this may sound disappointing, it's not that much of a tragedy because Elie Saab couture is always beautiful, just predictable. ANYWAYS, let's talk celebs. Couldn't you picture Taylor Swift's thin figure and blonde curls in the short brown tulle number?  Or what about Olivia Wilde rocking the sparkling blue gown with a plunging V? Maybe Hailee Steinfeld rocking this white mini with cobalt blue clutch or some really funky jewels? And the oh so revealing beige and silver gown is so Beyonce it's painful. I could go on, but I think you understand where I'm coming from.

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER 

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Well, Jean Paul Gaultier definitely wins the award "Collection that made me LOL." To be fair, this is typical Jean Paul Gaultier and the collection's creativity and innovation is so couture, but it's just way too crazy for me. I really have mixed emotions about this collection. It's not my personal taste; however, I do admire how unique it is. I think if I were to observe this in a smug way, I wouldn't be giving this collection the creative praise it truly deserves. I'll just leave it at this: like it or hate it, this couture fall is truly wearable art. Power to you, Mr. Gaultier!

AZZEDINE ALAIA

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This collection, more than any other couture collection I've ever seen, epitomizes couture for the modern woman. Thanks to old movies and my inner granny,  I'm spoiled by the idea of a minimalist couture: I always expect these fabulously over-the-top pieces and Oscar worthy dresses. I know it's a problem, but that's just how I think. Azzedine Alaia's was a happy balance of what I always expect and the reality of couture. The silhouettes weren't the full ball gowns that I envision; however,  I was enamored with this collection.  While a lot of people put emphasis on gowns and other looks, I loved the focus on jackets in this collection: a fabulous array of fashion staples. And the materials that were used to build this collection were so couture-worthy, yet wearable. Actually, I would describe this collection as wearable couture.  Yes, the looks were innovative, but nothing like Jean Paul Gaultier. Although I'm a personal fan of over the top couture, I'm okay with this too. After all, fashion is all about evolving. 

xx

This is Your Moment

Finally.

I have enough time to finally talk about Black Swan.  My fabulous friend and I seriously waited all winter break so we could see it together, and the wait was worth it.

Obsessed.

It was seriously one of the best movies I've seen in a while. The plot was so addicting, I love psychological thrillers. But more importantly, it was so aesthetically pleasing. 

The ballerina clothes were so remarkable; Kate and Laura Mulleavy seriously did an amazing job, regardless of award status.

Not only were the costumes absolutely beautiful, but I think they're provoking some trend in the fashion world. Throughout the whole movie, there was a juxtaposition of the white naivety and the self-destructive black.

The white versus black comparison is very striking.

Yes, I know this skirt isn't white but mix of it and a leather vest (which is behind) is  so Black Swan.

I think my favorite outfit of the whole movie, which I'm sure many can agree with, is the white dress Natalie Portman wears to the ballet benefit. I love love LOVE the glitz paired with the white dress, absolutely insane.

Us non-Natalie Portmans can easily follow this trend with a crisp white shirt and some jewels!

And if you're not believing a word I say about black and white ruling the world, let's  take a look at some couture, shall we?

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The simplicity of this Valentino and the embellishments around the neckline is a minimalist take on that Black Swan dress I am obsessed with! 

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I love the black versus white situation here. The sleek look is so devious here! 

Alexis Mabille was filled with white:

the following pictures have Photo Cred.

The last two looks for this collection are  sooo Black Swan: similar silhouette but different color. I'm telling you, black and white are ruling the world! 

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The white is so innocent and then...

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The black is its alter ego; sleeker, more sophisticated, more experienced, more devious.

If you haven't seen Black Swan yet, I tell you to stop reading this blog right now (which is perfect because this post is over) and go to your nearest movie theater. ASAP.

xx

Holy Lagerfeld

Ladies and gents, it's couture time! I just love the idea of haute couture sweeping down the runway. And let's be real, this is where award dresses come from. And the top contenders for some of the most fabulous red carpet dresses thus far? Valentino and Elie Saab for sure; they are fashion forward, yet stick to the general couture guidelines.

But this blog post isn't about Red Carpet predictions, I'll save that for Sunday afternoon.

Something weird happened at Chanel, and I don't know how I feel about it.

Instead of the tweed jackets and beautiful collection Lagerfeld usually shines us aspiring fashionistas with, we were left with this:

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I just don't know what to think about this.

Why is Chanel going street style?!

I'm so confused.

If this whole look was for any other collection, I'd be down with Lagerfeld's expansion of the Chanel look, but couture? Seriously?! I will say that there are some looks I really like further into the collection, but is this really the time to lessen the sophistication of such an iconic brand?

But then I thought about it some more. In my personal opinion, couture is all about being unique and abstract. And we must realize that having such a casual look for Chanel is reeeallly abstract? So was that Lagerfeld's whole idea? This collection wasn't just a half executed thing; apparently 10 million beads were used throughout the collection. That's a whole lot of beads! 

I usually love blogging about Chanel shows, because they always are so similar  but different at the same time. But this one, is just plain thought provoking. 

While I do admire Lagerfeld's attempt to make Chanel his brand, is couture really the right time to do something so casual? Or, is he trying to show us that fashion should be for everyone?

Not now, not at couture.

That's all I have to say.

Death of Couture

As you may, or may not, know- the Fall 2010 Couture collection recently debuted on the runway.  Like any other good fashionista in training, I was so excited to see exotic and innovative pieces from some of most talented designers: I kept tabs on the whole production. Weeks later, I was really upset to see that only a handful of non-unique designs were shown for the fall couture collections. That previous comment may have me banished from the world of fashion for eternity but I have my reasons! I suppose I'm not so much complaining about the lack of designers who did couture: it's a very time consuming and expensive process that does not necessarily agree with the world's  current economical status. I suppose what I am upset about is the lack of creativity and imagination among the designers. I was whole-heartedly disappointed with Karl Lagerfeld's collection for Chanel. The last half of it wasn't that bad: he did experiment with some textures and floral accessories . But the first half? A bunch of two pieced suits that could have easily belonged in someone else's  fall collection. Now, this isn't meant to insult Mr. Lagerfeld, because...well, who doesn't love him? He's a fashion genius  and usually always innovative (let's think about Fall 2010 RTW, shall we), but I guess I just  excepted too much from him. In other news, the Armani Prive dresses were beautiful but I just expected works of art. While reviewing these collections, I started to believe that couture wasn't supposed to be art. Maybe it was supposed to be realistic and wearable.  BUT THEN I FELL IN LOVE WITH TWO COLLECTIONS: Dior and Givenchy.  Dior's couture collection definitely had a whimsy floral theme which I LOVED: the colors were so new and vibrant (ironic for the fall collection but I'm lovin' it), the silhouettes were inspirational and they flowed so beautifully, and there was SO MUCH DETAIL. It was different. It was art. It was couture. Thank you, John Galliano for embracing the true meaning of couture. And then Givenchy? Absolutely beautiful. It was current but timeless, really reminding me of the allure of Old Hollywood, but sexier and just incredible. I thought the whole skeletal concept  was eerily beautiful. Is that grammatically correct? My spell check says so. It was just so regal and, once again, true couture. I mean...don't even get me started with how jealous I am that blogger BryanBoy got to see it close up. But he has amazing detailled pictures so please check it out. Well my rant is basically done, but I can say, with hope, there's always next season!
xx