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

13 Favorite Runway Looks of 2013

Whether you're dashing from show to show or examining every look on Style.com, fashion month is the ultimate time for style savants to gush over the latest silhouettes, most delicious fabrics, and best emerging trends. But after thousands of looks, which have obviously been curated in your fashion-forward Pinterest boards, it's hard to remember every pleat, trouser, and shoe that sashays down the catwalk. However, there are some runway ready ensembles that are so ingrained into your memory that you can't get them out of your head.  In no particular order, here are the top 13 looks that will inspire me well into 2014.

Proenza Schouler Spring 2014 RTW, Look 21: I dare you to tell me you don't adore everything that Lorenzo Hernandez and Jack McCollough design. You can't, right? Exactly. The Parsons classmates turned Proenza Schouler masterminds always deliver perfectly au courant pieces. While their entire spring collection was to die for, I have a (not-so) healthy obsession with the finale looks. A cross bodice with metallic pleats? Perfection. What I love so much about this look is that it's unapologetically now and anyone who has a penchant for divine threads will adore this. Lauren Santo Domingo was spotted rocking a similar look from the spring collection as was Rooney Mara. And with the help of any secret admirer with endless connections and cash, I will also happily wear this look. But in cream, please. Wouldn't this make for the perfect New Year's Eve ensemble? 

Belstaff Pre-Fall 2014, Look 16: Bells and whistles asides, it's always comforting to see something on the runway that not only you would wear on a daily basis, but you can also copy with the clothes you already own. For me, this ensemble hit the nail on the head. Head to toe, I love this look so much that I can envision myself wearing it any day of the week (if weather permits). Belstaff has come such a long way since its waterproof jacket days, and I sincerely admire designers who can still make fashion upscale, yet accessible, to the masses. Brava!

Chloé Fall 2013 RTW, Look 3: I've been something of a cape fanatic for a couple years now. It all started with a short purple cape that I sported on my very first trip to London. In no time, my mere fascination accelerated into an obsession. Whether it was a black cape from a local boutique or a plaid cape on Brick Lane, I became so enamored with the feminine, yet powerful, image that capes brought. Isn't it about time Olivia Pope wears capes on the daily? A vibrant blue that stands out amongst a sea of black, this cape caught my eye months ago. When I saw it in person this summer, my feelings only increased. Paired with a sleek black dress and versatile boots, this look best exemplifies how to wear a cape without looking like an old maid.

Céline Fall 2013 RTW, Look 25: In case you didn't receive the memo, plaid was very big this fall. From Saint Laurent to Moschino, everyone was giving this lumberjack print a very chic makeover. Without a doubt, my favorite example of this trend was Céline's luxe tartan pieces. The traditional silhouette was paired with checks that gave us a new way to look at plaid. Phoebe Philo's heavy emphasis on the white lines offered a dash of minimalist modernity. The otherwise neutral ensemble made this a look that anyone could wear. It's perfect for the ambitious career woman, the Park Avenue housewife who is stopping by the latest PTA meeting before going out to eat, and even that downtown gal who's forced to go to an uptown gala. Try imagining yourself in this outfit. I promise you'll like what you see. 

Preen by Thornton Bregazzi Spring 2014 RTW, Look 17: On a day-to-day basis, what fashionista doesn't want to wear an effortlessly chic ensemble? Exactly. No fuss, just fashion. I adore this look because it's the perfect way to get a high-octane impact without trying too hard. Whether you're going to work or a coffee date, this ensemble is the ideal way to tell onlookers that you're up to date with trends but don't need to flaunt them.

Christian Dior Spring 2014 RTW, Look 58: At first, it was an alarming combination: Raf Simons and Christian Dior. While the former is synonymous with pure minimalism, style spectators always know that Dior will provide feminine ensembles with a modern twist. Would Simons give the design house yet another New Look? While Simons has a perspective that is very different from his predecessor, John Galliano, his designs have yet to disappoint me. While his latest spring collection seemed promising, it wasn't until the slew of jacquard dresses that I knew I was in love. A far cry from Simons's usual aesthetic, this dress revived Christian Dior's flouncy reputation while keeping it updated. Raf, you had me at the floral ambiance.

Tibi Spring 2014 RTW, Look 10: Over the past few seasons, I've had the pleasure of watching Tibi turn into a premier American brand. While Tibi used to be the go-to line for flirty tea dresses and fun prints, I love the sportswear direction Amy Smilovic has taken. Without a doubt, the spring collection was my favorite Tibi show thus far. With a nature loving theme, I adore how this look channels street style modernity through a very "back to the basics" lens. If you give me an easy one-piece, I'll be happy; however, Smilovic's use of contrasting fabrics and accessories made this one look I will never forget.

Valentino Fall 2013 Couture, Look 47: Out of all the official couture design houses, Valentino always amazes me with its hypnotizing patterns, bevy of slim-fitting silhouettes, and all-around regal air. Everything about this dress screams "Dainty Princess." Even though it is entirely sheer, the modest undergarments prevent an outlandishly sultry moment. It's one of the looks that is so special, it should probably be in an everything-proof vault or framed. Thank you, Pierpaolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri, thank you very much.

Carven Fall 2013 RTW, Look 25: Fall was the season of the coat. Though Carven featured gorgeous coats in dreamy pastels, this camel look is my favorite by far. There's something so standard about a camel ensemble; however, I strongly believe this hue is one of the most underestimated neutrals around. I love how this look is so sleek, yet the light pink and tan cracked top makes this more than another minimalist ensemble. Plus, those shoes are just divine! 

Dries Van Noten Spring 2014 RTW, Look 47: To be perfectly honest, it's impossible to categorize your style into one overarching adjective. You consider yourself "girly" until you swoon over a tough Balenciaga leather jacket. You're "classic" until you take a look at Prada's latest spring collection. And you're "minimalist" until you fall head over heels in love with Dries Van Noten's spring ruffles and dramatics pleats. I adore a clean, tailored ensemble; however, this look gives a neat look a frilly edge. Of course, you could never wear this look to the grocery store, however, Dries Van Noten gifts us with a relatively somber silhouette that doesn't compromise his extravagant collection. The long shorts are very Calvin Klein sleek while the top is reminiscent of something you would normally sport at the couture shows. The result? An outfit that deserves a standing ovation.

Stella McCartney 2014 Resort, Look 4: Every few seasons, there comes a collection that is 100 percent perfect. From the python print, to the embellished threads, to the floral patterns, Stella McCartney's cruise collection was just that. While the prints were indisputably feminine, McCartney pairs them with modern (and sometimes tomboyish) shapes. This look perfectly captures McCartney's design aesthetic for the cruise collection:
girly and current. I would like one of everything, please.

Altuzarra Spring 2014 RTW, Look 29: If Joseph Altuzarra's spring collection wasn't the most buzzed about New York collection, I don't know what was. Between the swarm of languid skirts and show-stopping metallics, this group of looks demand your undivided attention. I love this look because it combines the two focal trends from Altuzarra's collection without being too abrasive. To keep the attention on the gorgeous clothes, Altuzarra finishes this look with a pair of simple pumps. From date night to a charity gala, this look is the ultimate ensemble for any city's "It Girl."

Balenciaga Spring 2014 RTW, Look 37: If you didn't love enough Alexander Wang's eponymous brand label, he's been doing wonders at Balenciaga. Wonders, I say! For example, his spring collection was a perfect 

mélange of Wang's cutting-edge aesthetic and Balenciaga's high expectations. Old and new come together with this look: the silhouette is quite traditional, but sheer skirt mixed with the embellished dress bring something new to the table. J'adore!

Which runway looks did you love this year? Sound off below! 

All photos courtesy of Style.com

xx

Spring 2013 Trend Report: Mixed Media

As every style savant knows, fashion is all about choices. Unfortunately, our daily struggle to craft the perfect ensemble is more complicated than "the little Gucci dress or the little Gucci dress." For starters, tastemakers are forced to choose a standout print...or are they? Finally, designers have answered our prayers and started to incorporate a bevy of different patterns into one piece. But before you write this trend off as kitschy, take a look at some of spring's hottest looks: the super sleek silhouettes perfectly juxtapose the patchwork effect. The result?  Pieces that belong in our wardrobes, like, A.S.A.P.

Rodarte

Preen

Mary Katrantzou

Alexander McQueen

As expected, the collage look is not for the sartorial wallflower. In order to sport this trend, you must own it. When you let your statement piece wear you, the whole ensemble will look frumpy. And frumpy is never chic. Not quite sure if you have what it takes to rock this trend? Start off slow with a patchwork heel or bag. If you're ready to take this phenomenon by storm, keep your look polished with neutral accessories. Trying to match one hue is a good idea in theory; however, it will only cheapen your originally tasteful attire. But what's a fashion groupie to do if she (or he) can't find an affordable, too-good-for-words slice of mixed media? Lucky for you, a little DIY never hurt anyone. Instead of finding one piece with multiple prints, style a zany top with a patterned bottom. But before you throw on any mismatched prints and call it stylish, make sure you keep a general color palette in mind-- pairing pastels with neons is a recipe for disaster. To avoid a major faux pas, play around with different proportions and fabrics. Pairing a small print with yet another small print is boring and unflattering.

Proenza Schouler printed blouse / Topshop polka dot top, £20 / By Malene Birger neon pink shirt, £210 / MSGM printed jacket / By Malene Birger paisley pants, £285 / Tory Burch toiletry bag, £51

Now that you know the rules, will you wear clashing prints? Sound off below!

xx

The Weekly: The Fashion Depression

This week, I was having a wee bit of a fashion depression.




Don't worry, this is not the same as an actual depression, but it isn't much fun. You know when you look at your closet and you just don't know? Like, when you lose your styling mojo and you opt for something decent but not amazing. That's what I've been experiencing. I've been trying to cure it all week, watching  The Rachel Zoe Project a plethora of times, reading the latest issue of Vogue , and even falling asleep to The September Issue last night. But there is not thing that can fix this issue more than a good 'ol trip to a store. In this case: Urban Outfitters. Although I only bought one presh skirt, it was SO refreshing to be surrounded by new and exciting clothes again.


I didn't take any pictures of interesting things this weekend but I saw this picture this week and I lol-ed.

Photo Cred: http://fashionindie.com/fantasy-fashion-is-much-more-exciting-than-fantasy-football/

AND IF YOU WANT SOME MORE...

Now onto the weekly! A pretty good week in the land of fabulousity, if I do say so myself!

• Nicole Kidman at Omega Watch Event (Lanvin): Really, can this woman do wrong? I remember many award shows ago, someone said that she can genuinely pull anything off. Not like this Lanvin is "hard to pull of", but she seriously looks heavenly. I love the white with her red hair, such a beautiful color combination.  The halter neck in addition to the cinched waist is so classic but not overdone. I love Grecian goddess looks, always, and Nicole works it so well. I'm glad that the Dolce & Gabbana shoes were a rather muted color: Nicole's fashionable but not always a risk taker. And the gold bangles?! PERFECT! While several silver pieces hold sentimental value and importance in my mind, I'm really starting to LOVE gold. A flawless look, once again!
• The Kardashian Sisters at the NYC Dash Opening (varied designers): I'm not going to lie, I love Keeping Up With the Kardashians. It's so fun and ADDICTING!! Although I don't always agree with their fashion choices, these girls looked so stunning. The overall theme of black showed unity but they all tapped into their personal styles. I love long sleeved dresses and sparkles so obviously I loved Kim's ensembles, especially paired with that sort-of-really-fabulous red sole. It hugged her body, but in the RIGHT way. Khloe also looked so chic: her dress was understated but so classy. The small details, however, made it look awesome: her hoops were so cool and the belt showed that she put effort into the dress. But definitely my favorite outfit of the three was Kourtney. I LOVED this: so sophisticated and I LOVED how she experimented with different silhouettes! Since she's a mommy now, I respect that she can keep it classy. The leopard shoes gave it some edge and it was so New York in my mind! Although I would've opted for different earrings and maybe a different hair-do, she still looked incredible! Three cheers for the Kardashians!
• Tina Fey at the NYC Megamind premiere (Andy &Debb): Love it or hate it, I'm giving Tina BIG props for trying to move out of her fashion bubble: she's taking risks and that goes far with me! Personally, it was a major success! I love the silhouette and the geometric print: so mod which is something I'm really interested in right now! The accessories were a little minimal, but I think it works best for this look: simple and chic. She's gotta start somewhere if she's gonna be a fashionista! 
• Anne Hathaway at the LA Premiere of Love and Other Drugs (Antonio Berardi): First of all, I REALLY WANT TO SEE THIS MOVIE/ AM VERY ENVIOUS OF ANNE'S HAIR IN SAID MOVIE. I have such a middle school crush on Jake Gyllenhaal, but who doesn't? Although some might not like these "napkin accessories", I love it: how classy Gaga is it?! I like how this white dress has more of a two tone thing going on, which makes it exciting! I think it's rather simple, but it looks great!  I kind of wish she had different shoes though, the color works but I'm not crazy with the peep-toe.
• Carrie Mulligan at BAFTA Brittania Awards (Preen): Ugh Carrie Mulligan, stop creeping on me with you resentfully amazing style. Seriously. I love love LOVE the hemline of this dress: so flattering on the calf, so classy, and so trendy. I'm a fan. And there's this difference in texture which I'm really loving. But what makes this outfit incredible is the electric blue YSL pumps: those pumps gave it the wow factor and gave what would be a plain look some pizazz. Now if only she stopped looking so miserable...

xx