Fall 2014 Trend: Swinging Sixties

Even in an industry that's fixated on the next new thing, fashion's finest frequently look to the past for inspiration. If the fall shows were any inclination, we have plunged head-first into a sixties revival.

Though each brand has their unique way of defining the sixties, clean silhouettes and standout accessories were the underlying links for this marcotrend. At Gucci, Frida Giannini paired tailored jackets in baby hues with tinted sunglasses and knee-high python boots. Giannini's daytime-approved looks were perfectly balanced with several embellished minis that any aspiring factory girl would wear. On the subject of sparkle, Miu Miu's collection of metal appliqué on streamlined silhouettes, which were occasionally layered underneath plastic coats, would make even the strictest minimalist envision herself at one of Austin Powers's parties. And who could forget Hedi Slimane's array of sequined semi-shift dresses and shimmery boots at Saint Laurent? A major fashion month moment. But rest assured, style savants: this sixties revival isn't synonymous with sparkle. Valentino's fall line offered capes in versatile neutrals, mod patchwork prints and collared dresses in poppy pigments. However, it was Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pierpaolo Piccioli's use of op-art polka dots that made this collection sing. 

But perhaps that biggest sixties moment was none other than Nicolas Ghesquière's debut at Louis Vuitton. A far cry from Marc Jacobs's frills-filled parting collection, Ghesquière's take on this trend is more subdued than fall's alternatives. Sleek jackets, a-line skirts and feminine dresses are mixed with leathers, funky pattern combinations, and tough Chelsea boots. Whether you're craving to be Vuitton cool or opting for opulence, this sixties resurgence covers all points on the sartorial spectrum.

Gucci Look 5

Miu Miu Look 39

Saint Laurent Look 35

Valentino Look 3

Louis Vuitton 23

While a full look may be too reminiscent of Valley of the Dolls to be a jumping off point for this trend, sixties-inspired separates are undeniably wearable. An a-line skirt would be very au courant with a shearling-lined moto jacket, while a usually retro neck-tie blouse can look extremely Parisian with a fitted trouser and modest heel. Or channel your inner Edie Sedgwick with an unapologetically fierce (faux) fur jacket. But if you have a penchant for accessories, there are loads of retro shoes and purses to mesh into your 2014-approved wardrobe. While an up-to-there boot perfectly encapsulates mod squad style, a sleek Chelsea boot or ladylike stacked pump are equally appropriate (and chic) alternatives. And when it comes to bags, boxier is better.  Compact, fuss-free and undeniably stylish, the boxy bag is the perfect way to infuse some swinging sixties into an otherwise current outfit.

1. Ted Baker 2. Mark Cross 3. Acne Studios 4. Gucci 5. Marc Jacobs 6. Roger Vivier 7. Marco de Vincenzo 8. Saint Laurent

Will you be welcoming a sixties revival this fall? Sound off below.

xx

Spring 2014 Trend: Patterned Jackets

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

Miu Miu Look 12

Eudon Choi Look 5

Antonio Marras Look 9

Jil Sander Navy Look 17

Céline Look 7

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

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

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

All runway photos courtesy of Style.com

xx

Summer Lovin'

Believe it or not, summer's not over just yet. Before you pull out your cardigans and amazing booties, do me (and yourself) a favor -- embrace the last few days of this season!  I know what you're thinking: dressing for the summer is so draining. Recharge your fashion batteries and check out my top end-of-summer picks for that necessary dose of summer style-spiration.

Summer Lovin' by kmulvey featuring a silk dress

Edun silk dress / Miu Miu bikini swimwear / J.Crew bikini swimsuit / Cole Haan shoes / Salvatore Ferragamo silk scarve / Karen Walker Eyewear sunglasses / Sun hat / NARS Cosmetics lip stick / Ikat Beach Towel

In my opinion, summer is all about rocking unapologetically feminine pieces. From pastel bikinis with girly fripperies to soft, whimsical patterns, the options are endless! With a slew of towels, sunnies, and "out-of-this-world" silk scarves to choose from, don't forget to accessorize!  But what if you're a risk-taker and need a splash of edge? I hear you, style mavens. Juxtapose your ladylike attire with minimalist sandals or a punchy red lip. Now that you have the look down, it's time to bask in the sun!

xx

Swooning Over Shoes

While I'm not Jane from "Sea of Shoes", I do love a good pair of shoes. Honestly, what girl doesn't?  My trip to the city gave me a plethora of shoes to lust over, so why not share the love?

First Order of Business: Miu Miu Jewel- Heel Satin Pump

Photo Cred

Obsessed. Regardless of the trends, I will always be a glitz-fanatic; it is seriously the perfect way to spice up an outfit! The black satin, mixed with the rhinestones  creates a perfect blend of elegance and glamour. Miu Miu kept it classy by making this shoe have a chunky and short heel instead of creating a chic stripper shoe.  Though Miu Miu is charging a pretty penny for these (try $595), I think these are better priced than other shoes because they are so pragmatic. You won't be wobbling and hurting from these!  Can we picture these paired with a knee-long LBD or some skinny jeans and a flowy white blouse? Amazing! 

Second Order of Business: Chanel Mesh Peep Toe Ankle Boot

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Even when Lagerfeld doesn't live up to my expectations, I could never ever hate Chanel.  And this shoe is so right on.  I look at these shoes and think of a much better version of the cage bootie trend. The silhouette is so sophisticated and a nice change from Chanel's quilted shoes. And these are mega-versatile! You could wear these with a conservative shift dress  or even a body-con outfit if you're feeling extra sexy!  So smitten with these!

Third, and Final, Order of Business : Rag&Bone Harrow Boot

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Can we say mega retro/ Rachel Zoe? The mixture of colors and materials, in addition to the interestingly chunky heel, makes this shoe incredible unique.  And that chunky heel will allow any aspiring fashionista to strut with confidence and comfort. I love a good shootie! These would be awesome for spring and fall: a short sundress for spring and skinnies and a tunic for fall. Rag&Bone is quickly becoming one of my favorite designers!

Maybe one day I'll have these shoes for myself! 

PS: Congratulations to all of the CDFA nominees and honorees. Best of luck to all come June 6th! 

xx