Spring 2014 Trend: Heavy Metals

Though the polar vortex has many believing that we will spend the rest of our lives in fur and oversized,  pastel jackets, spring is quickly approaching. As the temperature rises, and the layers of clothes begin to decrease, you can always count on The Trendologist to give you this season's chicest style advice. Fashionistas, the spring trend round up has landed.

Metallics as a trend? Groundbreaking. Though the glitzy hues are a no brainer for some-- red carpet sirens, prom queens, and Vegas showgirls, for example-- the lustrous colors have been manipulated to make any style savant swoon. While Dries Van Noten inserted hints of gold into his avant garde ruffles, Proenza Schouler's Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough ended their spring show with a sea of tinsel-infused pleats. While Hedi Slimane gave Saint Laurent's glossy gold a Studio 54 aesthetic, you can always rely on Stefano and Domenico unapologetically Italiano looks at Dolce and Gabbana. And who could forget Joseph Altuzarra's sultry high-slit and sporadic fringe? Game changer at NYFW. With so many looks and techniques to choose from, each designer proves that metallic doesn't need to be saved for a special occasion. This spring, it can be worn effortlessly at any given moment.

Dolce & Gabbana Look 27

Saint Laurent Look 38

Altuzarra Look 30

Dries Van Noten Look 50

Proenza Schouler Look 22

Admit it: no matter how fabulous you are, it's your first instinct to embrace this trend with a pair of gold strappy sandals or a structured silver clutch, right? Step away from the accessories, trendsetters. The latest collections force all style trailblazers out of their comfort zone with gilded apparel. As easy as it is to find a metallic bodycon skirt and call it a day, 'tis the season to focus on thoughtful details and looser silhouettes. Sartorially speaking, a boxy or flared bronze skirt trumps a tight silver dress. Give your tinsel a daytime-approved twist with softer fabrics. The juxtaposition between unabashedly glamorous and low maintenance is still gold (pun intended).

But if the focus of your ensemble is your metallic clothes, how are you supposed to accessorize? Since looking like a shiny penny (literally) is out of the question, opt for neutral shoes and purses. And unless you're going to paint the town red, keep a fresh face with minimal make up.

No21 top, $490 / J Crew vintage shirt / Yves Saint Laurent motorcycle jacket / MARC BY MARC JACOBS short skirt / Sass & Bide skinny jeans / Monki silver metallic skirt, $49

So what do you think of this trend? I'm dying to know!
xx

All runways photos courtesy of Style.com

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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

Tibi Spring 2014 RTW

Fashion month is the most wonderful (and craziest) time of the year, and one thing is for sure: Tibi always delivers. To be blunt, I have a (not-so) secret love for the brand. Over the past few seasons, I've loved watching designer Amy Smilovic turn Tibi into a leading American brand as well as a must-see during New York Fashion Week. I was so fortunate to be invited back to see what Smilovic and her team have schemed up for spring. My thoughts on the collection can be summed up to this:

It was pure perfection.

After covering shows for other publications and updating my Pinterest board like a madwoman, I know exactly what I'm craving for this spring: simple, high-octane glamour. Luckily, the spring shows thus far are all about clean silhouettes and versatile neutrals.

At the vanguard of the minimalist movement, Tibi's spring collection introduces refreshing shapes and thoughtful details to the trend. In addition to the quintessential sleek blazer, cropped top, and pair of trousers look, Smilovic includes easy culottes and effortless playsuits.  It's pieces like these that I can't help but get goosebumps for: they make such a strong statement without being too loud.

Though the collection mainly consists of modern neutrals, Smilovic also showcases natural greens, soothing floral prints, and even a bright orange number. To keep these pieces feeling contemporary, the brand pairs the jaunty hues with clean shapes. 

What sets this collection apart from other contemporary brands is Smilovic's attention to detail. Leather tops, deconstructed hats, embellished skirts, and fringe backs are just some of the ways Tibi's collection reigns superior. The brand continues to raise the sartorial bar by incorporating these details in a crisp, calculated manner. 

Whether you're craving the streamlined ensemble or lusting over the adorned outfits, this whole collection feels very natural. It's not over-the-top or forced, it just makes sense. Perfectly modern and versatile, this collection is filled with outfits that you can wear again and again, making a chic statement each time.

Want a closer look at this collection? Check out some of the looks I'm head over heels in love with.

In a sea of "le sportif," this embellished number stands out.

Your classic spring ensemble gets a rebellious makeover with this on-the-pulse number.

Sheer stripes were all the rage on Tibi's catwalk.

Not to sound dramatic, but these nude culottes are everything.

I can already see myself living in this outfit.

What's black, white, and chic all over?

Goodbye "little black dress," hello "little black playsuit."

A vision in white, this ensemble is effortless and undeniably fabulous.

Want to check out more of my fashion week adventures? Don't forget to follow me on Instagram!


Photos courtesy of Style.com and yours truly. 

When in Milan

Regardless of the trend or sources of inspiration, Milan Fashion Week always epitomizes luxe style. This season, Milan gave us an understated extravagance and gothic glam. Sounds like an oxymoron, right? After looking at these collections, I have a sneaking suspicion you'll feel the same way.

Aquilano. Rimondi

I don't know if it's the overtly feminine silhouettes or the fact that the prints resemble stained glass, but this collection gives me a gothic feeling. From outerwear to cute little dresses, Rimondi and Aquilano embrace the idea of a glamourous and feminine woman. The play with different fabrics is absolutely gorgeous and gives the ensembles a little more depth. Each ensemble has these gorgeous details that are simply out of this world.Surprisingly, the two designers have a healthy blend between sartorial pieces and girly separates. This whole collection reminds me of a more gothic version of Baz Luhrmann's Romeo and Juliet. (Photo Cred) 

Prada

In my mind, this collection is the perfect RTW collection to follow Prada's previous one. The retro-inspired silhouettes and the use of busy prints is so reminiscent of Miuccia's spring RTW collection. Of course, the two collections are not carbon copies of each other: this fall collection includes darker colors and longer sleeves.Even the use of pantsuits show progression from the Spring RTW collection. It seems like Miuccia is telling us a story about femininity and I like it. (Photo Cred)

Blumarine

There's something so extravagant about this collection- a la 90's flashy glam- that I'm mildly obsessed with. Though some people may look at the extremely colorful fur with disgust, I love it. Obviously, I would never wear some of these pieces; however, I admire the unapologetic flashiness of this collection. Ironically enough, they do add some extremely polished pieces to this show.Is it weird that I secretly want to wear that sparkly suit to an interview? (Photo Cred)

Dolce and Gabbana

This collection encompasses two different kind of femininity: sexy womanhood and girlish florals. Although these two types of femininity seem like night and day, the use of lace and similar silhouettes throughout the collection link the two themes together.On a side note, Domenico and Stefano have the ability to use lace in a progressive and fun way.Besides the lace, the two designers used other detailing and appliques perfectly. Yes, perfectly.Let's be honest, this designing duo is perfection. (Photo Cred)

Versace

Like Aquilano. Rimondi, this collection has a very gothic- Baz Luhrmann aesthetic. However, this collection has more emotional roots, like Gianni Versace's last collection before his tragic death. Of course, in true Donatella fashion, this collection offers optimism with it's cheery yellows and oranges. Also, that sequin piping? Phenomenal. (Photo Cred)

Trussardi

Usually, I'm not a fan of androgynous fashion; however, this is a fun take on the trend. The clothes have a sense of masculinity, but their sartorial lines aren't butch. The interesting mix of color and fabric is refreshing.  For some reason or another, this collection appeals to me. I can picture a lot of these pieces working fabulously as separates. Also, I love the way this whole collection is styled: the offbeat monochromatism gives each piece more depth and wearability. (Photo Cred)

Salvatore Ferragamo

I can confidently say that Massimiliano Giornetti successfully incorporated two opposite ends of the spectrum in one collection: the corporate betch (one of my favorite ways to dress) and the bohemian. To lessen the randomness, Giornetti incorporates strong silhouettes with the bohemian fabric. Additionally, there are also bohemian silhouettes in black. Then to top it all off, Giornetti throw a little bit of equestrian. For the record, those structured equestrian jackets are to die for. I think  I love this collection because Giornetti somehow incorporates all of these looks but orders them in such a way that doesn't make the variety awkward or arbitrary. This collection reflects how I feel about personal style: you should never restrict yourself to one category of personal style. Bravo, Giornetti.(Photo Cred)

Bottega Veneta

To be perfectly honest, I didn't love the first half of this collection. There's nothing wrong with clean silhouettes and pops of pretty hues; however, it's nothing to swoon over. However, this collection's evening wear is too good to ignore. It all started with the feathers: anything that incorporates a halter top and  feathered skirt is worthy of some attention, don't you think? I love how Tomas Maier played with black and nude: super elegant, yet super sexy. Then the longer dresses happened. I could really picture Emma Stone rocking some of these printed numbers. The finale dress' mix of textures really took my breath away. So stunning. If you're going to take anything from this collection, here it is: never ever underestimate the power of evening wear.(Photo Cred)

Gucci

Maybe I'm an eternal brooding soul, but I'm obsessed with dark color palettes. As much as I do love a pop of color here and there, dark clothes just scream gothic glamour to me, which Milan Fashion Week tells me is totally in for the fall. I'm even enamored with this collection's dark green looks.The baggy silhouettes give this collection an effortless sophistication. They give you something that you can wear out to a fancy dinner or lounge around at home and either way, you'd still be the chicest chick ever. I also love how Frida Giannini toyed around with different textures and types of outerwear. Feathered cropped jackets and sleek black capes? It's like she read my mind. In short, I just really want to spend the rest of my life in this collection. Too far? Fashion people love to exaggerate. As for my inner beauty nerd, I'm going bonkers over the makeup. Dark lip for fall? Sign me up!(Photo Cred)

Jil Sander 

As we all know by now, I'm not a fan of minimalism. Maybe someday- that's me trying to broaden my fashion horizons- but not today. However, I must give credit where credit is due. And credit is due at Jil Sander. Though Raf Simons was let go, I must say that this is my favorite Jil Sander collection of his. Instead of letting minimalism radiate the same old emotionless aesthetic, he gives it a feminine spin. The soft, candy colors work perfectly with the sleek silhouettes. The subtle color blocking and the striking cutouts make this collection fun to look at. Also, who can resist a hint of metallic? All in all, doesn't this collection remind you of something you'd see Ann Margaret wear back in the good 'ol days? Just me? (Photo Cred)

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The Finale

It has literally taken me forever to finally get the energy and time to write a runway report for Paris Fashion Week. In my mind, Paris is the perfect location to act as a finish line for Fashion Week. Yes, I may think of Fashion Week as a marathon but that's not the point. The city of lights gives us everything we could ever ask for: glamour, forward thinking, and beyond chic clothes. So let's cut to the chase, shall we?

VIKTOR & ROLF 

(Photo Cred)

This collection is absolutely brilliant: I love the juxtaposition between the sharp silhouettes and the ribboned details. The colors are very spring; however, it's not your typical "springtime with pastels" color palette. Overall, the collection is completely cohesive, yet each look is unique. The ball gowns are true show stoppers. Also, doesn't the turquoise and black color combination remind you a lot of the prom scene from Grease? Just saying.

ALEXANDER McQUEEN

(Photo Cred)

I was listening to the Black Swan soundtrack when I was flipping through this collection; let me just say that the combination was quite fitting! Every single look is absolute perfection. All of the silhouettes are phenomenal and I love the intricate details that accompanied every ensemble. I think this collection truly proves that Sarah Burton is a fabulous designer: she is innovative and this collection is so reminiscent of McQueen's work. In love. L-O-V-E.

BALMAIN

(Photo Cred)

For Paris Fashion Week, this is such a wearable collection! The separates are versatile and super chic. Each look is pretty different; however, the gold accents tie the whole collection together. While the silhouettes are rather simple, the detailing really give these looks a "wow" factor. Absolutely incredible.

ELIE SAAB

(Photo Cred)

I always get so excited for Elie Saab's collection because I instantly think, "RED CARPET SEASON." I'm borderline obsessed with the colors, sequins, and overall glamour of the whole collection. Each look is phenomenal and unique. There's not much I can say except for I'm SO excited to see these looks stroll down the red carpet. 

DIOR

(Photo Cred)

This collection is a complete redemption from Bill Gaytten's horrific Couture Fall 2011 collection. I'm so enamored with the ladylike silhouettes in this collection. The prints that are featured in some of the dresses equals AMAZING. These looks are wearable and I think they could look good on a variety of shapes and sizes. Beautiful! BUT WHO WILL BE DIOR'S NEW DESIGNER? It's killing me.

VALENTINO

(Photo Cred)

There are two things that I'm  obsessed with: color and lace. The fact that these two elements are in the same collection literally blew my mind. While this season's collection isn't as classic as Valentino collections usually are, it is FABULOUS.

PACO RABANNE

(Photo Cred)

This collection may not be the most wearable; however, the innovation  is truly remarkable. In my mind, this will be fashion in the future: the shine, the details, and the crazy silhouettes. Welcome to the future, I hope you like it.

Well, ladies and gent, that's the end of the Spring RTW 2012 extravaganza. I hope it was entertaining and informative.

xx

The Week London Broke My Heart

London is my all-time favorite city: I love the atmosphere, the fashion, the dialect, the food...EVERYTHING. I am beyond excited to be spending my Christmastime in London this year; however, London Fashion Week made me cry. Cry out of pure anguish and sorrow, that is. In my mind, London is such a fashion-forward city. And Spring 2012 RTW was PITIFUL. It just didn't excite me. Sure there were some collections that rocked my world, but that wasn't many. It made me question my beliefs...it was that rough.

But as for the collections I did like, here you go! 

MATTHEW WILLIAMSON

(Photo Cred)

I have a soft spot for Matthew Williamson: his prints and chic slash bohemian looks always make me smile. Thank the fashion gods that this collection was not a disappointment.  The bright colors are super appropriate for spring, yet the boldness of each color is more original than your typical spring collection. And I love maxi dresses of all shapes so I'm extremely happy about that! The final looks are super chic and fancy, but  stayed true to Williamson's aesthetic. Overall, the looks are wearable, fun, and feminine. Beyond gorgeous.

MARIOS SCHWAB

(Photo Cred)

Phenomenal. This is one of the very few looks I've seen so far that's actually innovative. The silhouettes and the fabrics are so fresh and unique. I love how these looks show some skin; however, they're not slutty. A little bit of sultry goes a long, long way. The pops of color towards the end of the show gives this collection an appropriate amount of spice. Fantastic!

FELDER FELDER

(Photo Cred)

Unlike other collections, Felder Felder's runway actually has a pulse. Though the chocker situation is kind of scary, this collection summarizes everything I love about British style: it's raw, edgy, quirky, and all around BAMF. The harsh leather is beautifully juxtaposed with white, light dresses.  And that final look? Literally took my breath away: it's so edgy and beautiful.

Now you must be thinking, "Why isn't my Internet loading the rest of this AWESOME blog?" Nope, that's it. ONLY THREE COLLECTIONS THAT I REALLY LIKED.

London, we're gonna have a talk during Christmastime. 

xx