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

xx

The Style FIles: If This Life is One Act

I love Jason Mraz. There, I said it. Forget Drake and 'Lil Wayne (for a moment): Jason Mraz's songs are "YOLO"-worthy. He- along with a bunch of my favorite artists- released a new album this week and it's amazing. "Live in the Moment" is such a cute song and forces listeners to live their lives a little more.

Style Spiration: Constance Jablonski

Lately, I've been so interested in off-duty model style. There's this chic, insouciant je ne sais quoi when they're not strutting their stuff down the runway. Constance Jablonski has this knack for dressing effortlessly chic and put together at the same time. Fashion juxtaposition? I like.

There's no better way to rock "nonchalant style" than a military jacket.  I love how she  throws this jacket over a pretty basic outfit during Paris FashionWeek. The messy bouffant and feminine makeup gives this outfit a "fresh off the runway" spin. As for those leather detailled pants...I'd pass. (Photo Cred)

This parka screams wintry chic. Pairing this show-stopper with a completely black outfit is fantastic and forces you to focus on the parka. (Photo Cred)

Off-duty, downtown chic? I think so! Rocking a blazer during the summer is a style DO. The mixture of tan and whites really makes the navy pop. Plus, navy is such a sick alternative to black. Double plus, I really like those sandals. (Photo Cred)

The Weekly

• Emily Blunt at the Tribeca Film Festival premiere of Five Year Engagement  (Jason Wu): Blunt is on trend with this super retro Jason Wu dess. But don't write this look off as classic just yet: the Alice + Olivia heels give this look a funky, modern twist. Although I don't love matchy-matchy, this look works because the splash of green on the bodice, the earrings, and the pumps all havee an appropriate distance from each other. Ergo, it's not overbearing and works. Her slicked back hair and the bright lip finish off this feminine look.
• Emily Blunt at the Tribeca Film Festival premiere of Your Sister's Sister (Michael Kors): I think every fashionista should put "rock colored lace" on their bucket lists. The dainty lace creates this fun juxtaposition with the loud cherry red. The hemline has the potential of looking a bit matronly; however, the platform sandals and messy updo loosen this look up.
• Kate Beckinsale at the Total Recall press event in Cancun (J. Mendel): Leave it to Beckinsale to wear something uber sexy in the classiest way possible. I love the neck of the dress as well as the asymmetrical slit. The nude pump as well as the natural makeup proves that Beckinsale isn't just wearing something to look hot- she knows what she's doing. 

xx

I Heart New York

You may be wondering why I haven't posted a blog about my fashion week expedition. Well, this season was different in the best way possible.  I was fortunate enough to attend not one, but three shows on behalf of Her Campus.  Hands down, the most epic week of my life so far! Want to read about my own experiences? Check out my reviews for Josie Natori,  Irina Shabayeva, and EMERGE!.

As for the ones that I didn't cover, I'm giving you my deepest, darkest thoughts about NYFW exclusively on The Trendologist. Dramatic, right? Well get ready.

RODARTE 

Call me crazy, but there's something very nostalgic about this collection. It seems like each look has a story behind the colors, cut, and pattern. Don't dub me "Crazy Fashion Girl" just yet: I'll show you where I'm coming from.  The super feminine silhouettes really accentuate the models' figures. This is something very reminiscent of the pin up girl era. The final dresses' movement and sleeves also remind me of something you'd see in the 1930's. This collection does not adhere to the industry's obsession with minimalism, which I think is great: fashion rules are only made to be broken! Along with these retro-inspired pieces, the Mulleavy sisters added hardcore pieces to give this collection some more relevance. (Photo Cred)

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

Without fail, Oscar de la Renta always give us fashion fanatics dainty, beautiful, and sophisticated pieces. In my mind, fall always calls for a mixture of colors and patterns. Thankfully, de la Renta gave us just that! Oscar's ability to mix up patterns, materials, and silhouettes while keeping the same aesthetic always amazes me. Whenever he designs, it's always obvious that he envisions a classy, Upper East Sider with a good eye wearing his pieces. Also, I always look forward to Oscar's evening  dresses. Can we say stunning?  (Photo Cred)

JASON WU

My love for Jason Wu is neither healthy nor comical. Season after season, I'm always wowed by Wu's ability to create  innovative collections. AW 2012 is no exception!  This collection was darker than his previous shows; however, I'm such an urban chick at heart so it was right up my alley. No matter how edgy his clothes may be, Wu's cinched waists  give that necessary dash of femininity. His play with fur is out of this world fabulous: fashion forward, exciting, and not too ridiculous. What I love most about Wu is that he loves to experiment with different silhouettes, fabrics, and prints. I cannot tell you how many collections make me feel as if I watched the same look walk down the runway forty times. In my mind, a cohesive and varied collection is always the best.   This collection is key because it shows us that Jason Wu is so much more than "the man behind Michelle Obama's dress."  (Photo Cred)

RAG & BONE

Sometimes, I look at all of the great things in my life and wonder what could possibly make it better. Well, my lovely readers: all I need is every single Rag & Bone piece ever created. I'm obsessed with the label's clean cuts and downtown chic aesthetic. Whenever I see something that slightly looks Rag & Bone- worthy, I go crazy. Though I wasn't a huge fan of their SS2012 collection- I'm not sporty enough- I'm obsessed with this collection. The mixed textures scream "this is how to look chic during the fall" to me. What's super interesting about this collection is that there's very minimal cohesion. Usually, a designer has a theme or two that they religiously stick to. The only theme I can see is "go on with your bad self." And isn't that everyone's philosophy when they wake up in the morning and get dressed?  With so many quirky prints and cuts, you might be wondering how someone can even wear this collection. As the show's fabulous collection teaches us, this collection stresses personal styling and quirky mixtures. In short, my new dream is to one day be David and Marcus' muse. That's not asking for too much, right? (Photo Cred)

TIBI

Since last year, Amy Smilovic's designer aesthetic has dramatically changed from cute cocktail dresses to minimalistic separates. What I love about Smilovic's take on minimalism is that she plays with texture and adds a plethora of gloss elements. Usually, I hate minimalism; however, I love this new spin on clean silhouettes and fripperies-less clothes. Can we also talk about the mid-calf pants? Major. (Photo Cred)

PRABAL GURUNG

Unlike many New York collection, Gurung's collection is all about show stopping pieces. From pops of cobalt blue to complex prints, the fall fashionista is all about getting noticed. Seriously, who needs minimalism when you can have iridescent sleeves? I'm totally with you, Prabal. Call me Goldmember because I'm obsessed with Gurung's use of the metallic :gold screams fall to me and I love how the collection's stylist paired gold pieces with warm colors. If you want to dress in Prabal Gurung's pieces, you have to be a sexy and fearless fashion: his clothes are not for the meak. Additionally, this collection evokes so many emotions: the introverted black ensembles provoke a sense of exclusion while the brights and metallics are motivating.     (Photo Cred)

BADGLEY MISCHKA

Nothing says "insta glamour" like metallics do. Unfortunately, metallics usually mean you're painting the town red and hitting up the hottest clubs. While that's all fun, I  do secretly wish that we can wear metallic during the day without that "walk of shame"connotation. Badgley Mischka's RTW collection gives us an answer to our prayers. By integrating metallics into everyday apparel, Badgley Mischka is making it socially appropriate to add some shimmer to our street style. Besides the use of metallics, this collection has a plethora of beautifully structured jackets. The use of cutouts so adds a dose of unapologetic fierceness. Each look demands attention without being overbearing.   (Photo Cred)

DEREK LAM

Without a doubt, I'm a complete girl's girl: I'm probably one of the most feminine people on the planet. However, I do love edgy and tough pieces. That puts me in a really big predicament: how am I supposed to dress? Derek Lam's A/W collection gives us a powerful mixture of harsh and frilly pieces. Lam's tiny floral prints and structured suits scream femininity; however, the sporty aspects gives this collection a bad girl side. In my mind, maxis are in all year around. The long sleeve, black maxi? So smitten. The juxtaposition in this creation makes it something that is truly ready to wear. (Photo Cred)

BAND OF OUTSIDERS 

 I tend to look at all of these fabulous collections and get upset. While I'm obviously obsessed with my favorite colletions, I  always get upset that- as a college chick-  I have nowhere to wear them.  Then there's Band of Outsiders. Unlike Badgley Mischka or Oscar de la Renta, Band of Outsiders give us young fashionistas something to really wear right now. There's an effortless versatility that comes with every single look that I'm borderline obsessed with. This collection is filled with a mix of statement clothes and minimalistic staples. The ambivalence in this collection makes it up to the consumer to express their personal style. (Photo Cred)

DIANE VON FURSTENBERG

How could you ever hate something DVF creates? Each look of this collection has a sense of wearability and fashion forwardness. Each look brought something new to the chic table. Also, the collection's versatility is out of this world amazing. While the collection is filled with fun prints, the silhouettes are simple enough to either dress up or down. As always,  Diane designs with a confident woman in mind.  (Photo Cred)

JILL STUART 

Okay, so I definitely have a girl crush on this collection. Each look literally blew me away because it encompassed everything I love. Long sleeved minis? Check. Beautifully executed jackets? Jill showcased many.  Provocative concepts? They were definitely present.  The mod-inspired turtle necks? Absolutely. Also, the prints and detailing was very reminiscent of something you'd find in a vintage store, which I love. Honestly, the only rhyme or reason that I'm so enamored with this collection is because I would literally wear all of it.  (Photo Cred)

RACHEL ZOE 

You should all know how much I idolize Rachel Zoe by now. Though I probably wouldn't do it myself, I  admire her new designer title. For someone as obsessed with fashion as Rachel, it's definitely a big feat to design. Unlike designing veterans, we get something different from her collection: versatile pieces that we can wear to a plethora of occasions.For example, the chunky sweater could be worn out with some booties and skinny jeans or to a poolside party with a maxi dress. This indigo, quasi plaid dress could be worn to the office or even on date night.  The whole "dress up or dress down" concept is a common theme in Rachel's collection. In fact, I think it's better portrayed in this collection than in more prestigious runway shows.  Also, I love her undying obsessed with maxis. The long, lace maxi skirt? No words. Long live the maxis! (Photo Cred)

xx

A Chic New Year

New Year's Eve screams three things to me: reflection, redemption, and a fabulous outfit. While we should definitely reflection on 2011's fashion- the good, the bad, and absolutely dreadful- I'm all about looking forward. So ladies and gent, let's make 2012 the most fabulous year yet. To get things started, let's take a look at my six favorite fashion moments of 2011 and my six most-anticipated for 2012.

REWIND: 2011

1. Kate Middleton's Wedding Dress

Sure it's a little cliche, but how could you not love this wedding dress? Kate looked absolutely radiant and this just validated Sarah Burton as a designer. Yes, I went there.  (Photo Cred)

2. Tibi Fall RTW 2011

Not only was this show a Fashion Week first for me, but the collection is absolutely gorgeous. I love the mix between casual daywear and fantastic cocktail dresses.

3. The Savage Beauty Exhibit

I cried, what more can I say?  It was honestly the most beautiful exhibit I've ever seen.

4. Olivia Wilde at the 2011 Golden Globes (Oscar de la Renta)

My favorite red carpet look of the year, hands down. I loved the juxtaposition with the dress, hair, and spiked Louboutins. Could this get any better? Nope (Photo Cred).

 

5. Alexander McQueen RTW Spring 2012

My favorite collection of the whole year, I believe. All of the detail is hauntingly beautiful and Burton really upholds the McQueen aesthetic. (Photo Cred)

6. Hailee Steinfeld 

Hailee's definitely 2011's ultimate style icon. I love her ability to really take risks whilst embracing her youthfulness. (Photo Cred)

CAN'T WAIT: What's in Store for 2012 

1. New Dior Designer 

Ever since John Galiano's dramatic departure from Dior, the company has been looking for a new head designer. From Marc Jacobs to Ricardo Tisci, it seem as if the Dior potentials list is a "who's hot in fashion." The latest suspect is Raf Simons, which I'm not personally loving. As long as this next designer doesn't dress like a pirate, we'll all be okay. (Photo Cred)

2. Rooney Mara

I'm calling it now: Rooney Mara will be this year's style icon.  With her awesome portrayal of Lisbeth Salander, I'm so sure that we're going to be seeing a lot of Mara. Also, didn't she rock that Prabal Gurung at the Dragon Tattoo premiere? I say yes. (Photo Cred)

3. Jason Wu for Target 

 I died of happiness when I heard the news. Though this collection may not be as big as the Missoni for Target collection, but I'll be camping outside for this one! (Photo Cred)

4. Apocalyptic Chic

I'm not going to lie: I'm afraid of 2012. Is the world really going to end?  This year, let's laugh the apparent apocalypse in the face, shall we? (Photo Cred)

5. 2012 Golden Globes 

Award season is my favorite season and I cannot wait for the Golden Globes in less than two weeks. Ryan Gosling in a gorgeous tux and Charlize Theron wearing something stunning? This is what I live for! (Photo Cred)

6. More Trendologist Posts! 

A little self-centered, I know, but I can't wait to keep you all informed about fun fash-tivities all year long! 

xx

Runway Report: Pre-Fall 2012

You'll never believe it, but I can be pretty busy sometimes. Between the Twelve Days of Trendy-  that was a blast- and my British holiday, I've barely had any time to blog. But don't worry, I know you were really worried, I'm here and ready to keep you updated. First up: Pre Fall 2012. Although I sometimes find this series of runway shows to be a little superfluous since Fall 2012 is so soon, there are so many collections that I was obsessed with. I don't know how long this recap will be, Pre-Fall 2012 was that great,  so I apologize in advance.

Oscar de la Renta

In my mind, Oscar de la Renta can literally do know wrong. From his ladylike day wear to his show-stopping evening gowns , this collection is so feminine and chic. The vast array of colors throughout this collection is absolutely stunning. Though some silhouettes are very similar, the different colors make each look special. I also love how de la Renta always incorporates jewels into each look. Each collection doesn't just showcase some new clothes; instead, Oscar de la Renta offers a mature and glamourous lifestyle through his collection.   (Photo Cred)

Alice+Olivia

This might have been my favorite collection of the whole preseason. I'm serious when I say that I loved every single look. From the oversized trousers to fun party dresses, every look is youthful and  fashion-forward. Throughout the collection, there's a mix of a feminine flare and versatility. To make the collection a little more edgy, the sassy berets and red lips are the perfect finishing touches. What made this collection so fabulous, at least for me, is Stacey Bendet's use of different colors, textures, and silhouettes. Since every look is truly unique, the collection feels more like a sneak-peak into a super glam girl's closet.  And can we talk about that finale?  The jeweled bodice plus the flowing silhouette equals perfection.  (Photo Cred)


Diane von Furstenberg 

In my mind, this collection is the perfect juxtaposition between Jackie O's style and a rocker chick in London during the 1960's. That subtle struggle between good versus evil truly made me love this collection. Honestly, if this collection was purely one or the other, I wouldn't have liked it as much; however, this conflict makes it  something special. (Photo Cred)

Zero & Maria Cornejo

Not only does this color experiment with different prints and  textures, but the execution of these pieces are awesome. Many of the pieces serve as a blank canvas to me,  therefore they are extremely versatile. The silhouettes are rather primitive; however,  each ensemble is executed magnificently. Execution is more important than innovation in my mind.   (Photo Cred)

Rag&Bone 

I'm usually not a fan of sports-inspired collections; however, I'm such a Rag & Bone fan. Unlike most sports-inspired collections, this collection is promising because of its versatile pieces. The cozy sweater, for example, would look awesome with skinny jeans, a maxi skirt, or even a bodycon skirt and chunky tights.The red leather skirt would also look fabulous with a chunky sweater or a slim-fitted shirt. I always need options and Rag&Bone gives me options!  (Photo Cred)

Temperley London

I love this Temperley London collection because it's like feminine overload.  From the narrow silhouettes to the use of sequins and brocade-inspired pieces, this collection did not disappoint. I feel as if femininity is now a fashion taboo: we're now encouraged to dress androgynously, which I don't love. However , this collection shows us that we should be unapologetically feminine.   (Photo Cred)

Thakoon Addition

This collection is so cool because a lot of the pieces are quite weird. For example, the initially awkward silhouettes are definitely an acquired taste; however, they evolve into very chic and versatile pieces. Additionally all of the prints are borderline abrasive, but I kind of like it. However, I like my fashion like I like my people: weird. I love collections with stories and oddities. But that's what fashion should do: it should make you think. As a whole, the collection is definitely off-beat, youthful, and thought-provoking.   (Photo Cred)

3.1 Phillip Lim

I like this collection because it covers two different sides of the spectrum. The straight silhouettes and impeccable execution gives this look a very serious vibe. On the other hand, the funky comic tops prove that fashion is supposed to be fun. I love juxtaposition and some comedy in fashion.  Best of both worlds, right?  (Photo Cred)

Theyskens' Theory 

Reminiscent of his past, this collection depicts another  Olivier Theyskens designing peak. This collection strays away from clean-cut casual attire and explores a more gothic side of Theory. I love the long hemlines, quirky patterns, and layers overload. Also, there's something quite grungy going on here, and I like it.  (Photo Cred)

Michael Kors 

Honestly, I think this is the first time I've ever become addicted to Kors. Don't get me wrong, Michael Kors is such a fabulous American designers; however, I've never really felt that strong connection with one of his collections. Until now. With a saloon- vibe, this collection is a combination of all-American and progressive minimalism.  Should we talk about that detailing? Phenomenal. I love all of Kors' fur accents: it may not be very logical when it comes to pre-fall, but I'm a fan! Additionally, I love how Kors plays with hemlines and color throughout this collection. Well done!  (Photo Cred)

Ports 1961

Although this collection is super small,  it's definitely one of my favorites. If there are two things I love in life, it's definitely long-sleeved dresses and prints. There's a retro je ne sais quoi about this collection that I'm in love with; however, there's also something progressive about this collection. All of these pieces offer an effortlessly chic canvas to accessorize. The long dresses, for example, would look great as is or piled on with fur, necklaces, or even a moto-vest.  Obsessed.   (Photo Cred)

Burberry Prorsum

As much as I love my fur, feathers, and all around glamour, every now and then I love me some classic collections. Burberry Prorsum, for example, is the epitome of fashion-forward and classic glamour. In this collection, Christopher Bailey did a phenomenal job making classic fabrics and silhouettes exciting. The rich colors and textures truly added something special to each look. Like that fur jacket? Breathtaking. From fur trim to dainty florals, Bailey successful made this collection a hit.  In addition, the reoccurring bow belt adds femininity to these very traditional looks. Also, it gives the collection an additional consistency. I would also like to add that the men's ensembles are also spectacular.  (Photo Cred)

J. Mendel 

This collection is awesome because there are so many details.  From the creatively bunched bodices to the skirts with the sheared detailing, each evening gown is something to go ga-ga over. Throughout the collection, there's this awesome play between different textures, ultimately creating a super luxe feel. According to Giles Mendel, this collection is all about "unapologetic luxury," which I think is so right-on.  The emphasis on leather, evening wear, and fur precisely hits Giles' inspiration right on the head. (Photo Cred)

Jason Wu

I think it's in my DNA to love everything and anything Jason Wu creates. Fortunately, this collection is no exception. I love Wu's ability to constantly make classic pieces innovative. Sort of like this Burberry Prorsum collection, but different. Unlike Burberry Prorsum, each of Wu's collections are both cohesive and versatile. Anyways, now about the fashion. The everyday apparel is so awesome. I love how Wu incorporated red houndstooth into the collection. In general, I love the edgy contrast between the simple silhouettes and the geometric lines and colors. While his casual wear is stunning, this collection's evening dresses are phenomenal. I'm so smiten with that beautiful cobalt blue dress with the beyond incredible neckline. Fash-gasm, my new fashion word. (Photo Cred)

xx

If you want to look at some more Pre Fall 2012 collection, check out style.com

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

xx