Spring 2015 Trend: Ranger School

From Michael Jackson's slew of slim-fitting jackets to Olivier Rousteing's Balmain Army, the fashion industry tends to look to military uniforms for inspiration. This spring, however, this seemingly masculine fad has received a feminine make-over. If the pepto pink background wasn't enough of an indication, Marc Jacobs's collection of voluminous skirts and structured duster coats, all of which adorned with oversized gold buttons, was a telltale sign that army chic would veer ladylike this season. For Sacai designer Chitose Abe, the secret to embracing this season's troop motif was infusing feminine textiles: sheer paneling and floral prints were mixed with a traditional olive green that is militia-ready. While some designers opted for girly shapes and fabrics, others used shorter hemlines to give the classic uniform a ladylike twist. When it comes to designing masculine-inspired pieces for the modern day woman, No. 21's Alessandro Dell' Acqua used accessories to give each look a modern, yet girly, flair. With the help of pretty canary shoes and a belt to cinch the waist, dress that could've doubled as a shirt for a boy scout was fit for a lady. Craving a sexier alternative to this trend? Rag & Bone's Marcus Wainwright and David Neville offered the perfect solution. A bomber vest and up-to-there shorts are key ingredients for a daring summer getup. But if you're searching for an ultra glamorous way to sport this trend, look no further than Ralph Lauren's show. Whether paired with bright, silky tops or loads of jewels, the New York designer proved that military garb is just as suited for the runway as it is the battlefields.

Marc Jacobs Look 3 

Sacai Look 38

No.21 Look 1



Rag & Bone Look 26

Ralph Lauren Look

1. Acne Studios 2. Zara 3. Manolo Blahnik 4. Karen Millen 5. Marc Jacobs 6. Band of Outsiders 7. J.Crew

Becoming an excellent soldier, let alone deeming yourself worthy of a Purple Heart, requires strength, courage, intuition and patriotism. Fortunately, sporting an army-inspired ensemble is much easier. Though unearthening your fitted military jacket is an easy, and economical, way to participate in the fad, there are many pretty pieces to feast your eyes on this spring. And from elongated vests to tailored shorts, this trend will appease any style savant's wallet. While you may be wary about this sartorial phenomenon, finding a flattering and feminine way to wear this trend is easy.  Cursed with a complexion that repels earthy neutrals such as khaki and olive green? Opt for a tailored piece in a subdued navy or black. Let's also not forget that there's a fine between a stylish, sophisticated ranger and childhood scout affiliate. Juxtapose your rough and tough apparel with luxe,feminine accessories: a sleek pump or extravagant pearl earring is a surefire way to up the sartorial ante.

Will you be joining the fashion forces this spring? Sound off below!

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

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

The Weekly: Don't Let This Man Open This Closet

Ever since I came across a certain post by "Everday Minerals", I've been obsessed with having a uber-glam and HUGE closet.  When I get married and become a successful something, a fabulous closet is the first thing on my "to-do" list. The second? Filling it up with fabulous finds!  But for now, I think it's crucial that we aspiring fashionistas should have some well organized and fabulous places for our clothes to rest, regardless of our closet size. 

When considering a make-over, finding inspiration is always step one.

Here are some of my favorite closets: 

Photo Cred

Carrie Bradshaw's Closet. Yes, I am a Sex and the City fanatic, I'm actually watching it right now! I'm obsessed with this closet  because...it's Carrie Bradshaw's! Although she doesn't have a huge closet, until Sex and the City: The Movie,  I think it's incredible how all of those fabulous clothes fit into a rather contained space. 

Mariah Carey's Closet. Remember when she gave us a tour on Cribs,  please watch this link above if you missed that episode, and every aspiring fashionista's jaw dropped? I do.  It wasn't a closet, but a department store. The organization was major  and I love the tiles and chandeliers. I like how it is well decoration AND the light wall and shelf color allows the clothes to really stand out.

Photo Cred

Rachel Zoe's Studio Wardrobe. We all know that I want to be just like Rachel Zoe and I don't think anything could be better than being surrounded by clothes as you work. Heaven, right? I love how organized and, for lack of a better word, clean everything is.  That line up of shoes? Amazing.  I also love how the white walls and hardwood floor creates a zen environment for the clothes. And I bet her actual closet is even MORE insane...is that possible?

Well that's all of my closet inspirations for now, but hopefully I'll be back with some more! 

 And now, onto the weekly!

• Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen at the CFDA Nomination Ceremony (The Row, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Manolo Blahnik): The chicest they've ever looked, there I said it. I love how they are both embracing their own sense of style but the juxtaposition of black and white (or a blush pink) create a cohesive look. I love how the yellow heel creates a dramatic but extremely fun pop of color to the silk blush (yes, I've decided it's blush) suit. And I the drama of a completely black outfit with an animal print clutch. Genius! Both of their hair and makeup are clean and work really well with their outfits. Enough of this baggy clothing, Olsens!
• Selena Gomez in NYC (Tibi): She looks absolutely fabulous. I love how youthful the silhouette is; act your age, not your shoe size!  The different textures of this skirt and shirt combination creates a youthful look.  I'm glad that she didn't experiment with a pop of color because the basic black and white allows us to focus on the incredible details.
• Anna Kendrick at a Rag&Bone and Intermix Party (Rag&Bone and Botkier  sandals): I'm obsessed with Rag&Bone lately and this outfit is so cool. Who wears colored jeans anymore, let alone rock them? Anna Kendrick, that's who! I love who cool and casual this look is. The green is the perfect pop of color to black and white look.  Since the rest of the outfit is rather plain, the green made this outfit look effortlessly chic. Her relaxed waves and natural makeup also made her look uber cool.
• Camila Alves at the SAME Rag&Bone and Intermix Party (Not Available): This is absolutely fabulous. Although they aren't very common, I'm obsessed with a great pantsuit. And this one is so unique because it's long sleeved and doesn't look like a worker's uniform. While I think a sleek ponytail would have looked awesome with the paintsuit, the soft curls are pretty incredible. AND THE LEOPARD HEELS?! Love  love love! It's so elegant, but edgy, but subtle. 
• Michelle Trachtenberg at the School of American Ballet Winter Ball (Marchesa): So smitten; she looks like an uber chic ice queen. The light color of the Marchesa  is such a dramatic, yet incredible, contrast to her black hair and dark nails. And I love how she added to the sparkled accents by wearing a sparkled clutch.  And in regards to the dress itself, I love how the bodice has this criss-cross of purple and sparkles. It is the perfect companion to the flowy skirt.

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

Photo Cred

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

Photo Cred

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