13 Dream Pieces of 2013

Style savants, 2014 is coming. It seems like just yesterday we were all shaking in our Saint Laurent boots, fearing the rumored Apocalypse. Over a year since December 21st, 2012, and I'm happy to report that the world is still turning. As many fashionistas (and fashionistos) know, trends come and go; however, there are some pieces that capture one's attention well into the new year. The next twelve months has so much to offer: Nicolas Ghesquière's debut at Louis Vuitton and Peter Pilotto X Target, for example. However, in the spirit of reflecting on our pasts, let's take a moment to honor some of this year's outstanding, game-changing pieces. Sure, they don't fit many fashion groupies' budgets, but can't a girl dream?

Proenza Schouler PS11 Open Toe Sandal ($975): As everyone knows, Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough have a knack for turning their "Anti It" pieces into the hottest picks on the market. Though these kicks may not be perfect for a cold winter evening, you have to admit they're pretty major. Chunky heel, Grecian straps, and subtle hardware? Sign me up!  They're those kind of shoes that would look just as amazing with a slouchy pant as they would with a midi skirt. Versatility makes some of the greatest pieces. (Photo)

Rag & Bone Roseburg Coat ($1.095): As the creative minds behind Carven, Rochas and Céline taught us, oversized statement coats were the must-have piece for this chilly season. Though the aforementioned brands unleashed masculine silhouettes in girly prints and soft pastels, there is something so beautiful about a camel coat. Though is gorgeous tan is different from your go-to neutrals (ie: black and grey), this hue is versatile enough to wear for many seasons.(Photo)

Stella McCartney Strapless Jumpsuit ($2,965): In case you've been living under a rock these past few months, you know that 2013 was arguably the year of the jumpsuit. Major brands-- 3.1 Phillip Lim, Rag & Bone, and Zero+ Maria Cornejo, for example-- unveiled tailored playsuits while Sarah Jessica Parker rocked one at the 2013 BAFTAs. Honestly, this Stella McCartney takes the sartorial cake. The execution is absolutely impeccable, not to mention the black and navy color combination is very au courant. (Photo)

Chloé Ruffled Silk-Blend Satin Gown ($5,595): Don't get me wrong: I love a classic, tailored ensemble just as much as the next trendsetter. However, I am a complete sucker for a "no expense spared" evening gown. I'm a girly girl at heart, and this Chloé number has me smitten. Designer Claire Waight Keller describes her cruise collection as "barefoot attitude," and this dress singlehandedly brings unapologetic glamour and effortlessly chic together. (Photo)

Rosie Assoulin Silk-Faille Drapped-Back Maxi Skirt ($2,995): It's 2013, for crying out loud! Your evening wear is no longer restricted to gowns. Separates galore are now available to spruce up your nighttime looks. This Rosie Assoulin skirt is absolutely perfection. Though it may appear high-brow to some, this piece is a potent ingredient to a jaw-dropping ensemble. Whether you sport this skirt with a blouse a la Carolina Herrera or add a boxy or cropped top, this piece is extremely versatile and works for a wide range of ages. Plus, that soft pink is to die for.(Photo)

Lanvin Stephanie Gold-Tone Necklace ($990): Though everyone adores a dainty necklace or set of chandelier earrings, there's something extremely fun and street style about  a kitschy piece of statement jewelry. This year, fashion house Lanvin unleashed its own collection of logomania gems, which includes varsity numbers and fun slogans. My personal favorite is this gold necklace. It's fun enough to sport with a tough motto jacket, yet smooth enough to pair with a tea-length cocktail dress.  (Photo)

Kenzo Quilted Satin Reptile Jacquard Skirt ($510): Between the spunky eye print and touchable textiles, Kenzo's Carol Lim has a way with patterns and fabrics. Unlike some of the brand's other pieces, I love this skirt because its dark color palette is quite versatile; however, the intriguing fabric gives it the option of becoming a true statement piece. The boxy silhouette may not  be ideal for a night on the town, but can we say
 office chic?  (Photo)

Peter Pilotto Kristen Printed Textured Cotton-Blend Dress ($2,055):  I'm not one for vibrant color palettes and high-octane patterns, but I know a good dress when I see it. And this piece is definitely "it."  Fashion demands us to dream. We're supposed to dream ourselves into an advertisement or photo spread, and we're suppose to imagine life with those fantastic pieces we spot on the runways. Peter Pilotto's Kristen dress makes me dream of going on a tropical vacation. I would tie my hair into a chignon, add some wooden bangles, and throw on some tan wedges (maybe even a red-orange lip). The dreamer in me says, "Très magnifique!" (Photo)

Helmut Lang Leather and Jacquard Jacket ($1,195): Give me any motto jacket, and I'll be happy; however, there's nothing better than a reworked motto jacket. The nonchalance of the silhouette is a bonafide classic while the leather and jacquard blocking revitalizes this ultra-cool jacket. J'adore. (Photo)

Tibi Printed Silk Gazar Skirt ($650):If I haven't made it clear enough, allow me to spell it out: I love Tibi. I love its fun take on sportswear Americana, so it's no surprise that I would go ga-ga for this skirt. The splatter paint print gives a whole new take on the ultra feminine silhouette. Though this piece screams summer, it would look cute with loads of layers. And honestly, when Eva Chen wears something, you love it!  (Photo)

Givenchy Black Bambi Print Neoprene Sweatshirt ($1,375): Couch potatoes, rejoice! Big brands such as Reed Krakoff, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Chanel, and Kenzo debuted chic sweats this fall, which gives you complete permission to wear  (stylish) sweats out on the town. Out of all the stylish picks, this Givenchy piece is my favorite. There's something so artistic, yet completely covetable, about this piece.  Gothic yet fun, it's the perfect piece for any fashionista who wants to be cozy and stylish. If you can magically drop  hundreds of dollars on this sweatshirt, please copy the runway look and pair it with a sheer skirt. (Photo)

Reed Krakoff Wool-Blend Wrap Skirt ($990): Though semi-pleated skirts were all the rage this year (never forget the Zara pleated skort epidemic), this Reed Krakoff skirt revitalizes the envelope shape. The white peek-a-boo panel adds a striking dash of color while the wrap form shows just the right amount of leg.  (Photo)

Prada Saffiano Lux Tote ($1,995):I'm always on a never-ending quest for the ultimate bag: something that has an optional strap, is large enough for Mary Poppins's essentials, and comes in yummy neutrals. Luckily, this bag fits the bill. If the size and shape aren't good enough, this putty hue is to die for.  (Photo)

What were some of your favorite pieces from 2013? Sound off below! 

xx

Fall 2013 Trend: Pajama Party

On a chilly day, changing out of your cozy pajamas is a true struggle. Don't deny it, we've all been there. In addition to offering a slew of chic sweatshirts, fashion's top dogs have also released wearable versions of our favorite lounge apparel. From slinky slips to matching tops and bottoms, fall is essentially one big, sartorial pajama party. But unlike the threads you sport after a long day, we're ditching the flannel and poly-cotton blend, and are focusing on a luxe material: silk. The glamorous fabric is mixed with everything from vintage prints, to jewel tone hues, to sequin applique. When style megawatts such as Marc Jacobs and Alber Elbaz tell you that the most comfortable clothes in the world (dramatic, but true) are this season's leading trend, do you really have the right to reject this phenomenon? Exactly.

Louis Vuitton

Lanvin

Marc Jacobs

Rochas

Just because this trend exudes effortlessness doesn't mean it's boring. In fact, sporting a pajama-inspired ensemble is arguably one of the riskiest moves a fashion trailblazer could make this season. So what's the best way to wear this trend? Like any other major fad, the options are endless. Style your pajama top with a pair of boyfriend jeans, pair your slip with a luxe coat, or match your top and bottom for a super fabulous occasion. Though there's no one way to rock this trend, it's very important that your lounge-worthy threads are event appropriate. While wearing a luxe slip dress will leave both style savants and potential beaus in awe, the pajama set is exclusively for a fashion-forward crowd. But, for your own sake, please avoid a lazy topknot or bed head-approved waves-- you shouldn't look like you actually rolled out of bed!

Christopher Kane mint green dress / T By Alexander Wang dress / Topshop dress / Araks short sleeve silk shirt / Rochas silk trousers / Equipment pajamas, $685

xx

Last, But Not Least: Paris Fashion Week

The end of the fall collections is always bittersweet. No more new looks but, as a blogger, I'm excited to share more fashion adventures with you. Not only is Paris the end of the fashion week extravaganza, it's also extremely prestigious. I cannot tell you how many times I've looked through the Paris collections and thought, "This isn't PFW worthy." Unlike the other three countries, Paris Fashion Week- in my mind- celebrates fashion as artistic and sophisticated. Ready for my absolute favorites?

Alexander McQueen

I'll be the first to admit that this collection is not wearable. But then again, when is Alexander McQueen wearable?! Sarah Burton continues to carry on McQueen's extravagant legacy. Burton wows fashion fanatics with the use of varied silhouettes. Yes, this collection pushes the envelope (one may think too far), but every fashionista and fashionisto can respect the execution and innovation. When it comes to McQueen, you can expect to be blown away. (Photo Cred)

Elie Saab

Just when Elie Saab was starting to get predictable, he gives us a fabulously dark collection. As much as I love all of his collections, Saab strayed away from the girly dresses and gives us an alternative way to look at sparkly style. Saab also stays away from poppy colors this fall and sticks to rich, muted hues. His two toned pieces give them depth, sophistication, and edge. I'm so smitten with his use of peplum: the execution and size of each peplum exudes femininity. Don't think all this femininity means no sex appeal: that high slit is incredible. Additionally, this collection also exhibits sexy, new techniques. Let's be honest: Elie Saab can do no wrong in my mind. (Photo Cred)

Chalayan

In my mind, there's a difference between "strong and clean" collections and "pure minimalism."  Minimalism, in my definition, is usually composed of neutrals and provide no statement or "wow" factor. An example of a strong and clean collection is Chalayan's. Although I'm no jock, the athletic-infused pieces of this collection are conversational. The bold colors, paired with simplistic silhouettes, add strength. Just when you thought these silhouettes were over-done, the finale look happens. Enough said. (Photo Cred)

Christian Dior

Once upon a time, Christian Dior's "New Look" redefined fashion, femininity, and the brand itself. Seen in previous collections, it seems like Gaytten is searching for a "New Look" revival. Gaytten gives us a subdued take on this theme. For example, the belts add some modernity to the array of full skrits and fitted jackets. The muted color palette complements the occasional black pieces: they both work together to create a retro and feminine vibe. Thankfully the bright, high-impact finale dresses give us that sexy glamour that everyone craves.  (Photo Cred)

Mugler

Like McQueen, most of these pieces aren't wearable: the sleeves are definitely  too intense for some, while other looks are a little too risque. Nevertheless, I love this collection. The transition from cozy whites to harsh blacks is flawless and aesthetically pleasing.  Even the deconstructed component of this collection is well executed and exudes innovation. Also, I do have a thing for futuristic shoulders.(Photo Cred)

Balmain

Usually, I'm comforted by Balmain's predictable  collections: structured minidresses that have a hint of futuristic. Sure, this collection has a healthy dose of the label's staples; however, Olivier Rousteing also supplies us with some forward-thinking pieces. Sleeveless jackets? Yes please! Unlike previous collections, the silhouettes aren't as fitted. Even the looser suits create a nonchalance and casualness that I enjoy. Fun prints and detailing finishes off this new found love for comfortable silhouettes. Major want. (Photo Cred)

Carven

I have yet to go to Paris; however, I know exactly what I'm going to wear when I do: Carven's Fall 2012 RTW collection. Sounds weird, right? In my mind, there's something about this collection that exudes youth and Parisian style. The silhouettes are pretty basic: straight, sleek, and exactly what I would expect a Parisian fashionista to wear. Guillaume and Hieronymus then incorporate bold colors and ethereal paisleys to de-sophisticate it. This struggle between sleek chic and quirky funk makes me want to wear each piece while sitting at a super luxe cafe.  (Photo Cred)

Yves Saint Laurent

In this industry, you're only as good as your last. With Stefano Pilati leaving Yves Saint Laurent, it's time to evaluate his work at the fashion house! Like many other designers, Pilati embraces the sexy, leather trend. The execution and cut of the leather pieces give this trend a refined and elegant twist. The edgy mesh looks are also to die for: they're forward-thinking, but are paired with simplistic pieces to calm them down. His long dresses and pantsuits are reminiscent of something Yves Saint Laurent himself would've designed. The common bold lapels tie all of these different looks together and gives the collection cohesiveness. Though I never obsessed over Stefano like I do with Alber, Jason, or Prabal, I will say this was a great way to end his career. (Photo Cred)

Gareth Pugh

 

Sure, Gareth Pugh is not always my favorite designer; however, I'm drawn to this collection. Surprisingly, some of the jackets and dresses are wearable. Like that fringe dress? I would love to wear that one night and paint the town red. Other looks are obviously more avant garde. Even still, the execution is supreme. Also, I'm in love with the use of capes. How fabulous?!  When it comes down to it, I like this collection because it's thought-provoking. (Photo Cred)

Chloé

From soft pastels and use of lace to rugged silhouettes, Chloé gives us an androgynous take on feminine clothes. Sounds like an oxymoron? Well, to people who haven't seen this collection, it probably is. However, this juxtaposition is probably the best way to describe this collection.While the pieces could've been put together to create an innocent look, the mismatched and indifferent styling of this collection creates this tension between edgy and gentle. As a result, we see separates that can be sophisticated or youthful. It's this versatility that makes this collection strong and agreeable.  (Photo Cred)

Giambattista Valli

Like many fashion girls, I love me some drama. Not in the petty Laguna Beach style, obviously: I long to be excited by clothes' dramatic aspects. From stunning collars, to plunging necklines, to floor-length show stoppers, Giambattista Valli gives us just that, But don't expect sequins galore or anything: here, Valli offers a casual, yet dramatic, collection. The patchwork throughout the collection demands attention; however, makes each ensemble more casual. The silhouettes are simple enough, yet Valli includes popping colors or a dash of drama to spice each look up. I love how he sneaks in feathers in his looks: that Valli is a tricky one. (Photo Cred)

Haider Ackermann

Though my constant talk about silhouettes may be annoying, the cut of a piece is crucial. In my opinion, it can sometimes be more crucial than the fabric. The array of silhouettes- here I go again- from Haider Ackermann's Fall 2012 RTW really made me love this collection. Whether it's an extravagant neckline or  an accentuated hips, Ackermann really shows us how innovative a collection can truly be. Each look was exciting and that's what fashion should be. Wise words by me: you know something in fashion should be extinct when it becomes boring. Quick side note: who wouldn't want those metallic pants? (Photo Cred)

Lanvin

To add to the list of weird things I compare Lanvin collections to, Fall 2012 RTW reminds me of a buffet. Alber Elbaz incorporated everything I could possibly want to wear this fall. Fun pops of color? Check. A healthy dose of peplum? Oh it's there. Beautifully tailored, gothic pieces? In an array of silhouettes and textures! A gilded quasi-brocade? Of course! Army green? It'll look amazing with a light pink lip. Funky graphic pieces? Thank the fashion gods, because I could simply not survive fall without them. I love this collection because it doesn't overdose on one trend: instead, each trend flawlessly meshes into the next one. As a result, we get a realistic collection. On a side note, I cannot express how much I love Alber : he's such a genius, not to mention the cutest little thing to walk a catwalk.  If I could befriend any designer, it would probably be Alber.(Photo Cred)

Stella McCartney

It seems as if every fashionista ditches color once the first leaf floats to the ground. If Stella McCartney shows us anything in her fall collection, it's to embrace color this fall. Stella doesn't give us time to contemplate or ease into color: her first look gives us a shocking pop of cobalt blue, thus demanding attention and respect. I'll be the first one to say that I love wearing black all year around; however, it's time for all of us to break out of our fashion shells and take some colorful risks. She offers fun colors and quirky fabrics together: how's that for some colorful risk?  I love how she pairs the cobalt with dainty patterns and flirty silhouettes, which ultimately makes the blue richer and feminine. However, Stella does include some black for those of us who can't part from our favorite gothic hue.(Photo Cred)

Valentino

I would love to meet the one person out there who claims to hate Valentino and smack them silly. Seriously. Although Valentino Garavani is no longer calling the shots, you can't deny that the brand still has this agreeable, yet elegant,  energy. Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli continue to create glamourous pieces. According to the fashion gods, he (or she) who can make a modest jumpsuit desirable reigns superior. As a whole, this collection is exciting, versatile, and well-executed. Most of these pieces can stand alone and create stellar clean, yet expressive, ensembles or they can act as neutrals.  That versatility, paired with a dash of innovation, gives us fashion fanatics exactly what we want: timelessness. The detailing and extravagance of the finale dresses supply the drama that every fashion house should deliver. Can we quickly chat about the excessive use of leather? Am I sensing a top trend for the fall?(Photo Cred)

 xx

Resort, Shesmort

Resort collection is one of those crucial summer staples. Personally, I never consider the summer to be a fashionable season; my hair is always frizzy, I'm super sweaty, and try to wear minimal clothing. Anti-glamour. Resort is a friendly reminder, and a shove if you will, that you should always be stylish. And Resort 2012 was no different. Sure there were some collections I didn't love- Bottega Venata, for example- but most of them were utterly fabulous. So, in order to give you the creme de la creme of Resort 2012, I give you my top eleven. Why eleven? Well, I was originally doing a top ten but then Prabal Gurung blew me away. The usual. I'm a strong believer of an inevitable beauty within everything; therefore, I'm not ranking these. I was enamored with all ten of these collections, for some reason or another, so they all win!

PUCCI

(Photo Cred)

Ever since I can remember, Pucci has always been the epitome of fun summer-wear: the prints, the colors, the copious amount of maxi dresses. If that doesn't say summer, then I surely don't know what is! And this Resort collection didn't fail me! I loved the pastels/white/ black color scheme. The colors suggest a very laidback summer; however the seriousness of some of the cuts and frequent suits gave us something in between. Just when you could write this collection off as boring and professional, you get something so summery and so right on. It's that versatility and juxtaposition that I truly loved about this look. I think the most juxtaposed, aka strongest, piece of the whole collection was this zebra-printed jacket with pastel blue pants. Somehow, it wasn't overbearing, just funky! Funky in a good way, nonetheless. And in general, I wholeheartedly approve of zebra prints with pastels. When I get some zebra print up in my closet, I will definitely be trying that! I also need pastels...hmmm...well clearly, I need to go shopping!

J.MENDEL

(Photo Cred)

Before my lovely friends picked me up for our Hamptons escape, I was wearing my dark purple leather vest and my floral maxi. My mother, who I think I'm starting to portray as my fashion foil, hated that look. I guess it may have been too hot for that kind of attire, an aspiring fashionista NEVER listens to the weather, but I thought it looked cool. Anyways, J.Mendel totally backed me up on this  idea. Whenever I think of J.Mendel, I always think "Oh...so this is what Taylor Swift will be wearing to an awards show." Now don't get me wrong, I love soft and girly. But sometimes, I crave something a little more...tough.  That's exactly what J.Mendel gave us for this Resort season. Don't believe me? Just check out this colored fur! Who even does colored fur? J.Mendel, I'll tell you that! Of course, we also got our share of frilly feminine, but I'm so happy with the crisp silhouettes and color-blocking. I love how some of these looks may appear to be really minimalistic but, if you look closely enough, has some kind of detail to make it uber edgy and sharp.Thank you, J.Mendel, thank you very much!

LANVIN

(Photo Cred)

First and foremost, I think it's actually impossible to not love a design house when they incorporate BABIES. Not only were the model insanely cute, this girl was my personal favorite, but the clothes were undeniably chic! But besides the babies, I love the eclectic aspect of this collection. Yes, there are so many "rustic chic" looks; however, Lanvin gives us all a little something to tickle our fancies: metallics, ruffles, fringe, and some lace! My absolute favorite feeling when looking at a collection is not the tingly goosebump feeling, although that is quite fabulous, but the running thought of "this needs to be my closet." With those kind of collections, such as Lanvin Resort 2012, there's no need to pick out your favorite and obsess over it; all of the pieces are distinct enough that the whole sha-bang could create a wardrobe. I mean, do we need anymore reasons for Alber Elbaz should win the coveted Dior prize?

...

Just what I thought.

JASON WU

(Photo Cred)

I tend to think that I have a quasi-semi-totally- skewed view of reality. Prime example: I believe that I will one day go to the MET Ball, accompanied by Jason Wu. Why Wu? Why not! I'm consistently impressed by his collections. Resort, quite obviously, is no exception. In my mind, this looks like a modern version of Louis Vuitton's 2011 Resort. What's best about this whole collection is its mixture of chicness and wearability. In every collection, Wu successfully "edges up" a classic femininity. I don't look at this collection, wishing I had a place to wear this or that to. Instead, I think, "this is a better version of something I already have." For example, the hoodie? I'm not one to go crazy over sweat apparel, but I was obsessed with this! In short, everything Jason Wu does is pure magic.

NINA RICCI

(Photo Cred)

Okay this Nina Ricci collection may not be quintessential "resort," but I am enamored with it nevertheless. This sounds like a really dumb thing to say, but all of it is so pretty! The details on each piece is truly something. As a result, I become inspired. Not inspired in the sense that I want to change my look to "rich socialite," but inspired to accomplish all that I want so I can wear fabulous pieces like these. Anyways, more on the actual collection: it's so brilliant how the separates are paired in such a nonchalant manner. These looks aren't sloppy; however, these pieces are more approachable: Nina Ricci Resort 2012 is not just for Upper East Side Mommies!  My favorite look of this whole collection is the black mini with the lace front: the silhouette of the dress is so tea party, but lace makes it a bit more sultry. All in all, it was beyond.

NAEEM KHAN

(Photo Cred)

Well, this collection wins for funnest collection. Sometimes I consider going to the west coast after graduation; if I want to be a celebrity stylist, is there a better place than Hollywood? But there's one thing  that scares me about the west coast: color. Don't get me wrong, I do love some pops of color; however, I am urban at heart and do love my darks. The colors in this Naeem Khan collection inspired me so much!   Khan cleverly mixed extraordinary colors with rather simple silhouettes, thus creating beautiful pieces. The red brocade (it sure looks like brocade) mini? It was life-changing.  I thought it was really interesting how she had two looks with the same exact silhouette but different colors (see: here and here). A lot of times, people really do forget how fun fashion can be: it's always what's on trend and who will take over Galliano's position (not knowing is killing me slowly inside). Khan's collection, however, reminds us that fashion is about taking risks: wearing bold colors, sporting some feathers just because, and not being afraid to really sparkle. In my mind, this collection is all about bravery, which I love.

MARC JACOBS

(Photo Cred)

Usually, I'm never completely obsessed with a Marc Jacobs collection; however, I love love LOVE this resort collection. If you couldn't tell by this blog post,  I'm love juxtaposition in fashion; after all, that's what makes fashion unique and fun. This time, it's the juxtaposition between boyish and, well, feminine. This collection, more or less, represent a transition. The beginning,  really masculine and boring. Very Royal Tenenbaums, don't you think? Throughout the collection, the looks get more and more feminine: we see a full skirted dress and some sparkle until we finally get the finished product, a completely feminine look. I love when a collection tells a good story, or a collection has enough of a plot so-to-speak that I can create a story. Also, I really want that pink skirt.

GIAMBATTISTA VALLI

(Photo Cred)

I remember looking at the collection, convinced I would hate it.  But, when you really examine the details and review the collection as a whole, it's really something spectacular.  I don't know about you but during the summer,  it is imperative to be chic and comfortable: when I get sweaty and my hair starts to frizz, the last thing I want is a body-con dress. Unless I'm going out for a night on the town, that's another situation. Anyway, the shift-esque silhouette gave me extreme ease: Mr. Valli, you get me and every other aspiring fashionista suffering from heat exhaustion and humidity. But fear not fashion lovers, this collection is both pragmatic and stylish.  There are so many vibrant colors , quirky silhouettes, and so much leopard, you're bound to find something you love!  Speaking of leopard, don't you love the leopard hareem pants? I died. And the maxi dresses? Absolutely gorgeous.  It just goes to show you, don't judge a book by its cover! 

CYNTHIA ROWLEY

(Photo Cred)

If anyone asks me to sum up Cynthia Rowley's Resort 2012 collection, I would simply say it's "the functional anti summer." There's a common misconception to think of Resort as solely shorts, mini dresses, and beyond fabulous bathing suits. In my mind, Cynthia Rowley but an end to that. While looking at her collection, I noticed that most of the looks were not your typical summer collection: the hemlines are longer and there are so many long sleeves. If the fabrics were changed, this collection  could  easily be Pre-Fall or maybe a small Fall RTW collection.  Even some of the colors weren't very Resort-esque. Yet it worked: this is a Resort collection and a fabulous one at that. What I loved about this collection is how some of these looks can easily carry you into the fall. And we aspiring fashionistas do have to wear an outfit more than once!

VERSACE

(Photo Cred)

Versace, like Pucci, is one of those brands I constantly associate with Resort wear. The label is always so fun and sexy and isn't that all we want to be during the summer? What I found most interesting about this collection was the frequent use of black and white. But black and white is so boring, right? Wrong. Through incredible silhouettes, unique prints, and your occasional splash of color, this collection was divine. And that's the beauty of Versace: the constant innovation to make something out of a potentially boring situation. As much as I love a LBD, they can get a little boring. But the Versace LBD this collection? The sheen on the fabric gave an allusion of leather: fun and sexy!  Some of these looks don't say, "this is so Resort;" however, they're totally summer friendly. And the detailing was absolutely phenomenal. J'adore.

PRABAL GURUNG

(Photo Cred)

The only way I can accurately express my love for this collection is with one word: fabulous. Everything about this collection was truly fabulous. The polka dotted looks were fabulous retro, like something you would see out of an old movie. But, mixed with a floral top, polka dots look so relevant. Amazing. And the red and black dress is my personal favorite. And the evening gowns were so beautiful. This is one of those collections that I can't pinpoint the exact reasons for loving it, but it's seriously outstanding.

Sorry this blog post took absolutely forever to complete, but Resort was awesome and there was so much of it!

xx

Her Skin Type Maybelline

So I've been a terrible blogger lately and have simply not had the time to discuss INTERNATIONAL FASHION WEEKS. In my opinion, IFW (look at me and my acronyms) is where it gets interesting; as an American, some of the looks I question but that's what makes fashion fascinating. It's dynamic and culture specific. While Vivienne Westwood's collection kind of made me anxious  and Mugler almost brought me to tears of sadness, I wonder if I would love it if I was from somewhere else.

So without more procrastination, here's some of my favorites from IFW!

Photo Cred

Well Antonio Berardi had basically everything and anything you could want in a collection: fur, extreme jackets, lace, pants, dresses, shimmer. Needless to say, I loved it.  While the show wasn't entirely cohesive, the progression from white to colored to blacks was effortless and logical, which made the show feel more cohesive. I loved how this collection and outfits that would actually look good on people who are not size 00: the chunky coat would be flattering on almost anyone. Some of his sexiest dresses, on the other hand, would look so feminine on a Kim Kardashian figure. And, for the record, I am head over heels obsessed with the textured tuxedo. And this toughie blazerish dress ensemble. It was just awesome

Photo Cred

I'm going to be really short about Dior. John Galliano has made a fool out of himself and I believe that the damage is irreversible. That being said, Dior had a heavy dosage of ruffles, and I kind of enjoyed it. This collection, in my mind, was very Florence Welch mixed with a very other randoms. The colors were appropriately "fall/winter" and there were a lot of separates that will make for an extremely chic season. Like there's this orange fur coat that I kind of need. Oh and I loved how many hats there were!  But most importantly, the ending was hoping and inspiring- just what Dior needs right now. 

Photo Cred

For now on, I am referring to this Lanvin collection as "Tim Burton's Tea Party". Why? This collection started off as, for lack of a better word, "normal": everything was rather plain and simple: simplistic silhouettes and not many accessories. But then, everything changes and, in my opinion, for the better because minimalism is annoying. Silhouettes became more interesting whilst the proportions were out-of-whack. Although some simple pieces still walked the runway, like this canary dress, Tim Burton's Tea Party was invaded with feminine pieces that had a darker and more artistic flare, hence the nickname.  Even though I refuse to watch The Nightmare Before Christmas because it's really scary (my mother can attest to that), Tim Burton is so artistic, individualistic, and eery. Which is what I thought of this collection. But unlike The Nightmare Before Christmas, I thoroughly enjoyed this collection: it was chic, thought-provoking, and art. Just what fashion should be.

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Essential question: Can Prada ever do wrong? This collection screamed 1960s retro and let's be honest, who doesn't wish they lived in the swinging sixties? The people who actually lived then. To describe this collection in one word, besides "retro", this collection was "fun". Good 'ol fun!  The repetition of the drop waist belt  added some funk to what would be a rather typical jacket or outfit. The fur was so care free and I'm really upset I don't own at least one of these! AND THE SEQUINS?!  Amazing. I was so pleased when I saw all of the sequins! I think in order to wear this collection, you need confidence. I think this is one of those collections where people who don't love ridiculous avant gardish fashion will cringe, while the others with coo.  I  AM OBSESSED WITH THIS COLLECTION. That is all.

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I think what I really love about Balmain is how they are rather consistent with their silhouettes and looks altogether. While I know that being too consistent is a bad thing, Balmain is like comfort food: if you want long sleeved minis that have a hint of edge, you go to Balmain. That's just how it works. This collection; however, I really enjoyed. Of course, there were the trendy long sleeved minis that I love oh so much, but I really loved all of the tuxedo  sets and jackets that strutted down the catwalk. I love the metallic striped pattern that they displayed: it reminded me of Chanel with a twist. Whenever I think of Balmain, I always think of fabulous and really sharp: fabulous because all of the sparkle and sharp because of the rigid silhouette. Never change, Balmain.

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Nina Ricci's collection is the girliest collection, I think, of this season. Needless to say, I absolutely fell in love with it! The blacks, pinks, and blues of the collection reminded me of a 1950's Barbie, which I thought was fabulous. For fall, designers usually stick with blacks and darker colors so the change in color was incredible.  Like so many collections, I love Nina Ricci's use of lace and sparkles! And I loved this one look with a jester collared and trousers. Speaking of trousers... can I get these velvet trousers? Also, the final was FABULOUS! I wish I could wear it. I feel like a non-pregnant Natalie Portman would look stunning in this collection!

xx