Spring 2015 Trend: Springy Suede

As the temperature rises and the final snow-lined sidewalks are cleared, we are all itching to strip away our down jackets, flannels and velvet pieces and opt for lighter fabrics. While silk, cotton and linen are no-brainers for a warmer climate, suede has the tendency to raise a few eyebrows. This spring, however, the smooth cloth is wearable, refined  and undeniably chic. Showcased in dainty pinks, Jill Stuart’s series of on-trend separates gave a feminine twist to an array of slim silhouettes. Meanwhile, a grungier vibe was offered at Tibi’s runway show. Between the range of earthy neutrals and the raw textiles that were coupled with the tactile suede, Amy Smilovic's take on this trend was undoubtedly made for fashion's cool girl.  Citing Charlotte Rampling as an “invisible muse,” Jason Wu’s collection  provided an utterly elegant alternative to this trend. Flirty mini dresses and coats nipped at the waist in deep blue and olive, respectively, would’ve been just as stylish during Rampling’s time as they are today. Before her departure from Gucci, designer Frida Giannini gifted the Italian house with a seventies-inspired collection. In a sea of suede, Giannini’s textured top against flared jeans and a silk scarf truly sang. If you're yearning to take on a new sartorial challenge, look no further than Derek Lam’s seriously suede collection. With patchwork pieces and head-to-toe ensembles, the New York designer proved that this trend has street style appeal.

Jill Stuart Look 5

Tibi Look 26

Jason Wu Look 20

Gucci Look 13

Derek Lam Look 4

1. MICHAEL Michael Kors 2. Marc Jacobs  3. H&M 4. Topshop 5. Aquazzura  6. Jaeger

When it comes to trying your luck at this trend, accessorizing with a touchable shoe or purse seems like a no brainer. Chic as it may be, expand your wardrobe this season by investing in suede apparel —the results will be worth it.  And with a range of price points, there is no excuse not to give in to this fad. Easing into suede?  Instead of taking the plunge with one of Derek Lam’s full looks, opt for  equally-striking, streamlined separates. Start with a simple suede skirt and pair it with a crisp white button-down.  A girly halter is the next step, and will look fetching with a pair of boyfriend jeans. Or turn heads with suede trench in a versatile neutral. Last but not least, up the sartorial ante with a polished dress. But before you go ahead and explore the wonderful options this fabric has to offer, order a suede brush.  After all, nobody likes neglected suede.

Will you be investing in suede this season? Sound off below!

All runway photos courtesy of Style.com

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5 Favorite Trends from Pre-Fall 2015

To the untrained fashion follower, resort and pre-fall collections experience middle child syndrome. Unlike ready-to-wear or couture collections (let's take a brief moment of silence to reflect upon the sheer beauty that was Valentino's Sala Bianca 945 collection, shall we?), the intermediate seasons tend to be overlooked. Besides Chanel's Austrian runway and Dior's Tokyo show, pre-fall and resort shows rarely require big-ticket venues and an A-List front row. Not only do these collections have the longest shelf-life, they oftentimes provide shoppers with the most wearable pieces. Stretching over several weeks, not to mention an entire holiday season, keeping up with the latest pre-fall shows is no easy feat. For a condensed review of the créme de la créme, check out these five must-shop pre-fall trends.

Bold Monochrome

Preen by Thorton Bregazzi, Look 23

Monochromatic dressing is not an earth-shattering revelation: goths and stereotypical city dwellers have been sporting this look for years. However, giving this classic styling strategy a jolt of life with high-octane hues is perfect for pre-fall. Yes, these looks may highlight one color; however, each designer's take on this trend offers a different feel from the next. With a flouncy peplum and a silky texture, Preen's variation  is unapologetically girly and au courant at the same time. At Gucci, Frida Giannini presented a strong competitor for the modernized Carmen Sandiego's ensemble with a belted jacket and flared trousers. It was an utter throwback at Tomas Maier with a leather newsboy-inspired cap and a cinched sueded trenchcoat-- talk about blast from the past! If you're craving a relaxed, colorful outfit, look no further than Lemaire's combination of oversized jackets and baggy pants. With a more muted color palette than the rest of the trend's pack, The Row's earthy green getup offers an effortless, new-aged vibe.

Unconventional Checks

Derek Lam, Look 2

Every few seasons, tartan makes a comeback. This time, however, plaid's quirky cousin (the windowpane check) is back with a vengeance. Designers are at all marks on the spectrum with polished palettes and mismatched ensembles. With contrasting color palettes, Derek Lam offered a quirky mod vibe with his double-barred checks. Proenza Schouler's Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough revitalized an otherwise tired version of this print with lengthy fringe and boxy figures. At Christian Dior, Raf Simons smartly paired wide checks with short, A-line dresses and dainty jackets. The end result? Something that's as traditional for any Londoner yet progressive enough for a Tokyo townie. Ever so preppy, Tory Burch mixed clean windowpanes with touchable stripes and autumnal tones. But of course leave classic elegance to Lanvin's Alber Elbaz, who played it cool with a cinched silhouette in an undeniably chic black and white combination. 

Micro Mini Dresses

Valentino, Look 7

Over the past few seasons, the runways have run rampant with 60's and 70's inspired apparel and accessories: wide-legged pants, a-lined skirts, and up-to-there boots are just a few examples. In keeping with the industry's retro vibes, and adding a flirty flare to the pre-fall collections, micro mini dresses are exactly what your wardrobe has been craving. Between the high-octane color palettes and op-art patterns, Giulietta's slew of mini dresses perfectly encompass that groovy spirit. Meshing feminine florals with celestial prints, Valentino's shortened hemlines rejigger patterns that are also projected on red carpet-worthy silhouettes. Leaving little to the imagination was Francisco Costa's array of sexy baby-dolls at Calvin Klein. While Calvin's collection showcased pretty pastels that would've been visionary on a young Brigitte Bardot, Fausto Puglisi's ultra-minis come in vibrant hues with warrioress embellishments. On a less sultry note is Erdem's balloon-esque shape. But don't write this look off as a childish dress: the semi-sheer fabric offer a tongue-in-cheek element to an otherwise innocent frock.

Touchable Coats

Stella McCartney, Look 14

On a chilly morning of after a long day, nothing feels better than wrapping yourself in a heavy fabric. A heavy coat has always acted as a sartorial hug; however, pre-fall's array of coats are extra covetable. With fuzzy exterior, these picks bring huggable to the next level. And thanks to a slew of different variations, there's a textured coat out there to satisfy every style savant. Available in a vest, Stella McCartney's shaggy coat is begging to be worn. With McCartney's passion for environmentally-friendly goods, it'll be hard to find someone who has any objections. Equally as cozy (not to mention zany) are the bevy of furs in brooding neutrals from Sonia Rykiel. Chloé's Clare Waight Keller joined the texturized bandwagon with a combination of neutrals and patchwork picks. From a simple shearling collar to a full-on shag coat, Burberry Prorsum's picks range from zero to 100 in a single collection. If you're looking for a cozy coat that is free of any Penny Lane associations, Balenciaga's  teddy trench offers a polished take on this trend. 

Thought-Provoking Tweed 

Thakoon, Look 11

Over the years, tweed has received a nasty reputation of  being strictly suitable for grandmothers worldwide or stiffy trophy wives. Gone are the days when "tweed" and "hip"belong in two separate sentences. With the help of some smart styling, as displayed by the latest pre-fall collections, tweed is cooler than ever. Take Thakoon's selection of tweeds, for example, which are paired with androgynous clogs. The ultimate way to bid any pre-historic connotations ado. With an unmistakable penchant for the textile, wide-leg trousers and airy maxi-dresses spiced up Chanel's classic tweed. Conversely, Maiyet's tweed was instantly revived with the looks' accompanying mismatched prints. To give an old fashioned a contemporary twist, the geniuses at DSquared2 coupled tweed with leather. Not a typical match made in heaven, but consider us sold. Tweed is usually associated with fitted jackets and skirts; however, Fendi defied all expectations by opting for a beautifully voluminous coat.

Which pre-fall trends are you obsessed with? Sound off below.
All runway photos courtesy of Style.com

xx

Favorite Pre-Fall 2014 Collections (Part 2)

Just when you think Pre-Fall is over, the interim season unleashes a slew of show-stopping collections. You already checked out some of the hottest picks, but there's a whole new group that's waiting for a well deserved swoon fest (in no particular order, of course). Shall we swoon, ladies and gent? Oh, we shall.

1. Jonathan Simkhai

This collection is person for the style savant who wants to show off her body in a classy manner.  Forget jewel tones and neons, Simkhai is bringing sexy in our two favorite neutral shades: black and white. My favorite take home tips for looking hot? Sheer panels, sporty menswear, subtle cutouts, and tasteful crop tops.   If you really can't stand a completely black and white collection, the finale's dashes of ice blue is very sultry. Style.com's Lauren Sherman said it best: "Really, a Kanye West-styled Kim Kardashian would look great
in this stuff."(Photo)

2. Ralph Lauren

Two words: ultra luxe. From slinky evening gowns to draped skirts galore, to lounge-worthy sweaters, this collection is nothing short of divine!  But that's not all these threads did for the fashion community.  In one traditional fashion show, which is impressive for this season, the Americana style legend teaches us how to rock a monochromatic look. As this collection shows, the key is in mixing and matching different fabrics. Silk with cashmere and a dash of fur? Yes please! (Photo)

3. Derek Lam

As the resident king of cool,  Derek Lam is certainly on his way to becoming a bonafide sportswear phenomenon. Not only does this collection welcome a variety of color combinations and texture mixes,  Lam also brings forth a wearable collection with a multitude of pieces: dresses, coats, culottes, and even a playsuit. In true Lam fashion, every separate and look is undeniably relevant and chic. Plus, it's the perfect way to prepare for autumn. (Photo)

4. Elizabeth and James

Whether it's The Row or Elizabeth and James, design duo Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen always wow with slender silhouettes, pops of interesting prints, and a "boy meets girl" aesthetic. This collection has "cool fashionista" written all over it.  Tough the clash of plaid and floral is very Givenchy RTW AW 2013,, you have to admit that it spices up an otherwise solid ensemble.  The funky prints mixed with the clean shapes makes this collection something minimalist will consider a worthwhile wildcard while ethereal goddesses will use these pieces to tame down their wardrobes.(Photo)

5. Alexander Lewis

Breaking news: navy is the hottest neutral out there. Don't believe me? Take a look at Alexander Lewis''s Pre-Fall collection. From monochromatic looks to a strong dose of the hue in plaid prints, navy ran rampant. Though a mere shade isn't enough of a reason to love a collection, the boyish pieces are incredible. Languid bomber jackets? Yes. Printed trousers? Of course. Relaxed shirt dresses? Thank our lucky sartorial stars. But don't write this off as a standard menswear inspired collection: the designer claims he was inspired by a time when sexiness was sought after, but subdued. Between the high slits and sultry cross necklines, it's a well executed idea! 

6.Cédric Charlier

As this collection proves, reliving the past is not always a bad thing. While the metallic- neutral mélange is very Proenza Schouler RTW SS 2014 and the graphic prints scream Céline RTW SS 2014, Cédric Charlier gives these major spring trends a seasonal twist. Jackets reign superior and mixed in are some nice noir threads. Redundant? Sure; however, there are some fads that are so cool, you can't get over them in a mere season. Metallics and graphics? Hopefully, they'll stay around for a few more months. Gatsby was right: you can repeat the past.

So, spill it: which collections are you loving? I'm dying to know! 

xx

Concrete Jungle Where Dreams Are Made Of

Fashion week is probably the most exciting time in my life. Too far? I don't care; it's a time to celebrate designer's artistic accomplishments and the industry in general. There were so many outstanding looks, it's so difficult for me to just pick a few fabulous collections. But I'm going to do it, dammit! To make this easier on me, and a shorter blog post for you, I'm going to have four blog posts: New York, London, Milan, and Paris. So enough of this small talk and let's hit it off with New York.




If you ask me, New York has some of the most wearable and exciting collections of the whole season. I just love the modernity and glamour of the city. Also, the clothes are nothing less than fantastic.  So here are some of my absolute favorite collections!

JASON WU

(Photo Cred)

To start off this rave session,  Jason Wu is going to be a legend. Mark my words,  ladies and gent:he is the next great American designer. I'm totally in love with all of his collections. Obviously, this one is no exception. The pops of color and interesting silhouettes  give this collection some edge; however, the clean lines in his finals looks are eternally beautiful. Wu has a way to make all-American fashion innovative and fashion-forward. Also, whoever makes short shorts look classic really has a knack for designing. I'm telling you guys now, he WILL be my date to the Met Ball someday. 

PRABAL GURUNG

(Photo Cred)

Gurung also makes my heart go pitter-patter. What I love most about this collection is that it truly is ready-to-wear. He  designed this collection with the typical woman in mind.  I think these clothes will look great on women of all shapes and sizes, which is so rare in fashion. Sure there are some looks that may only look good on a size 00 , but the universal feel dominates this collection . Also, this collection is never boring! He experiments with appliques, cutouts, and quirky patterns; it never seems like he's trying to hard. In my mind, all his crazy execution ideas work well with the collection. He knows how to create a successful look: when using crazy fashion elements, he keeps the silhouette simple. He's never overbearing as a designer, which is so refreshing!

DEREK LAM

(Photo Cred)

I really love when designers don't create a collection of cohesive prints and silhouettes; instead, they make a uniform for a certain kind of woman. And that's exactly with Lam did for this most recent collection . Who is the "Derek Lam" girl, you may ask? She's a powerful broad who craves an unstated kind of glamour. She's a modern chick who love clean lines. She has enough confidence to wear almost anything. She loves a piece that has an innate charm. Oh, and she can also pick a fabulous dress. Doesn't this "Derek Lam" girl I made up seem really cool? This collection has some incredible separates and I really think we'll see a lot of these pieces at press releases and premieres. 

SACHIN & BABI 

(Photo Cred)

I'm obsessed with this collection for one reason and one reason only: its focus on youthful fashionistas. You can just tell by the use of youthful silhouettes and short shorts that this collection is geared towards the new generation of fashionistas. All of the looks in this collection appeal to me: finally, I don't have to sacrifice my age to wear fashion forward clothes. HOORAY!  In addition, the designs are well executed and the looks can be dressed up or down. I've mentally styled my friends in this collection...awkward?

PROENZA SCHOULER

(Photo Cred)

Something I truly admire about this collection is how it has both masculine and feminine components, thus making this a wearable and universally loved collection. Some silhouettes are androgynous, while others are the epitome of femininity. As an aspiring fashionista, I truly think it's an everyday struggle- yes, there are trials and tribulations- to be feminine without being too girly as well as being edgy without looking like  boy. Through Proenza Schouler's silhouettes, mix of fabrics, and patterns, we get  a happy medium. On a side note, I completely love the retro prints of this collection.


CHRISTIAN SIRIANO

(Photo Cred)

Ever since his days on Project Runway, I've always felt inspired by Siriano's vision. Spring/Summer 2012 is no exception. He ceases to amaze me with his concepts and I love witnessing his growth as a designer. I love how he really focused on the "pops of color" idea in this latest collection. And, in true Siriano fashion, it's not boring. He uses interesting textures, feathers, and adds intricate details to tailored pieces in order to show his originality. I always know that I can rely on his collection to give something truly dramatic and outstanding. And his evening gowns are pretty crazy!

ZAC POSEN

(Photo Cred)

His dresses in this collection are literally breathtaking. I'm such a dress kind of girl so I really love how this collection is 100% skirts and dresses. Posen knows that women always love this kind of old school glamour; however, he adds some interesting silhouettes to make this collection more relevant. All of these looks are absolutely fabulous. 

WES GORDON

(Photo Cred)

Here's a riddle: who can make a collection that's completely wearable, feminine, and modern at the same time? Wes Gordon can. This collection has some truly incredible separates that can be worn for any occasion. In contrast to Posen's collection, I love how laid back this collection is. It's quirky in its own way; however, I feel as if the coolest chick at the party would wear any of these looks. Fabulous!

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG 

(Photo Cred)

I think all I need to say can be summed up to a simple sentence: Diane von Furstenburg is the Queen of Fashion. This season is very into loose silhouettes, which Diane obviously incorporated. Each look, however, is undeniably fashion forward and feminine, thus holding true to Diane's  design philosophy. LOVE LOVE LOVE!  To quote the band, The Police, every little thing she does is magic. But really...it is.

Stay tuned for more!

PS: Wanna hear about NYFW's beauty? Check out my latest Her Campus blog post! 

xx

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I Die.

I figure since The Rachel Zoe Project is on TONIGHT, I should discuss the Rachel Zoe photoshoot in the new Harper's Bazaar issue. I loved loved LOVED it!! The concept was so fun and I loved how the designers were involved. And more importantly, the outfits. Like the Vera Wang dress she wore in the poison shot. It was so whimsy and girly and it's so perfect. And the Derek Lam white gown in the Brain Atwood image? She looked so serene and goddess-esque. I loved it all. I know this blog is short but there's not much else to say. I love it. End of story.

xx