Featured on Top Button!

2006-10-18T12:34:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's another post about Top Button. But I can't help it, I love the site! And I know, it's not really a feature, but it's one step closer to one. I didn't leave the comment unsigned, I actually linked back to IBT, but I guess that was deemed unnecessary? Anyways, maybe it was a fluke and only two people including myself submitted suggestions, but this still makes me smile.

Update: Check out the homepage again today (Thursday) to see another featured suggestion by moi. The initial suprise and 'excitement' is now gone.

Visit the www.topbutton.com homepage for today only for a peek.

I Want You To Know About...

2006-10-17T14:52:00.000-07:00

Yet another 'I Want You To Know About...' post! A site I am still presently discovering, www.TopButton.com, is quickly become my go-to guru for information regarding sample sales, upcoming trends, and the latest in film. The site seems to be jam-packed with fashion insider information, as well as various critiques on various fields.
I’m excited to learn more about Top Button, and you should be too! Membership is seriously a cinch and I have a feeling IBT will have a bright future with this place.

iLove This Idea!

2006-10-17T14:34:00.000-07:00

I’m not sure I grasp the point of it, but here’s something new from the world of water. Forget about vitamins in your Evian or raspberries in your Aquafina. How about a magazine featuring the latest trends in fashion and beauty? iLove is the latest thing to show up in a water bottle. Peel away a protective layer and read the attached 32 page glossy. Apparently, it’s positively overflowing with everything from health and fitness to Hermés and other fashion friends.

iLove is currently only available in Australia, but I have a sneaking suspicion this ingenious product will make it’s way to North America soon enough.

Check out www.ilove.com.au for more details.

Slaughter House Rules

2006-10-17T14:02:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately, this entry is nowhere close to as uplifting and light as the film Cider House Rules. You may remember my previous post concerning the use of fur in the fashion industry. Things are really starting to heat up now, with a new video focused on fur farms narrated by Stella McCartney. The graphic movie depicts your typical U.S. slaughter house and the ways owners go about murdering animals such as racoons, foxes, and minks. So for those of you who reason that the animal is killed for meat, and taking its fur is just an economic way to use the entire animal, think again. These creatures are caged and tortured only for the benefit of ‘fashion’.
Also, check out this article from Handbag.com. Author Alice Temple explores the fur trade industry and the warped perception we all seem to have of it.
And if you need any more convincing, have a look at this Chinese fur farm, where animals (mostly dogs, I might add) are skinned alive for their fur. Afterwards, the suffering creature is not even put out of its misery.
It makes me sick to know such things go on in our world. And please don’t think that this is only one farm. To quote PETA, “These farms can hold thousands of animals, and the practices used to farm them are remarkably uniform around the globe.”
Think back to the huge protest outside the Jean-Paul Gaultier boutique. Animal rights issues are not going away. You can either be part of the problem or become part of the solution.
So please, put away your fur or think twice before you pick up that Burberry fur-skirted trench coat. By shifting the demand in the fur trade industry, you could be saving hundreds of animals annually.

Item of the Day: The Fateful Holmes Houndstooth Cape

2006-10-16T18:37:00.000-07:00

I saw this cape jacket less than a month ago in Fashion magazine. Even when I first saw it, it had that ‘WOW’ factor that every girl loves to feel. And during one of my routine visits to the indispensable Neiman Marcus website, I felt the same sudden chill. What should make the front page but the very same Houndstooth cape by Pink Tartan! How eerily creepy that that eye-catching piece has made its way into my life twice now. I do believe it’s a sign that I should buy this gorgeous item, but let’s truly evaluate the situation.
Yes, Houndstooth is very now and very trendy, but that’s just the problem. This trend could evaporate before I get to wear the jacket twice. When buying into trends, I’ve always been sure to exercise caution. Never invest too much! This cape comes in close to $500. So is it worth it? Who really knows? Houndstooth has proved to have staying power, but does my taste? Such an elaborate piece will surely tire me after six months. I’ll keep you updated…
In the meantime, drool for free or check out these more wallet-conscious versions.

Here, a houndstooth cape jackie currently going for $70 on Ebay.com.

A long houndstooth jacket cape for $65 on Vintageous.com

The Forgotten

2006-10-16T18:13:00.000-07:00

I was browsing through slides of Semaine de Mode de Montréal and found myself marvelling at the S&S ‘07 collection by Envers. Other presentations that mildly tickled my fancy were Rush Couture, Valerie Dumaine, and Eve Gravel. But to be perfectly honest, I like to be spellbound in order to truly covet a collection. And it’s easy to become overtly impressed by something when in the presence of a hundred bores. Envers was without a doubt the most creamiest crop from SMM 2007.
SMM is often overlooked for many reasons, one of them being the somewhat lacklustre collections. Quebec is known for poutine, not Prada. Designers have seemed to accept that and perhaps, appreciate it. Montreal doesn’t present the same pressure as Milan or Paris. And with that in mind, developing artists can experiment with little scrutiny during SMM simply because the media does not flock towards it like they do the others.
Which was why I was so impressed with the Envers presentation. It was almost too edgy for the celebration of casual and outerwear typically shown throughout the week. Not to mention it’s relevance in current fashion, quickly complimenting the solemn satin shown at Prada and the loose fits at Stella McCartney.
We were shown basic palettes and deeper hues, paired with adorable silver pumps and the notoriously feminine Springtime-cut. Envers also gave us a taste of men’s fashion, introducing unfinished Converse, man cleavage, and airy polos.
So from what I’ve gathered after looking at photographs, the overall mood of the show wasn’t your average prissy-stoic attitude. It was friendly, free, and brightly amateur. It takes designers like Yves Jean Lacasse to remind me that my hometown isn’t hurtin’ as bad as we all think it is.

Credit: www.mfw.ca

Rising Trend

2006-10-16T14:37:00.000-07:00

What I’ve been noticing plenty of on the streets of fashion-fall-behinds are flat riding boots. Zero heel and zero fuss, apparently, as a slew of generic equestrian products make these shoes a breeze to care for.
It’s always fun to see the girls who, God bless them, think they are the trendiest creatures on the Earth (or at least in their school) and pick up on dropped trends a little too late. But who cares about the fast-paced fads of fashion? It’s all about what you want to wear. But in this case, equestrian riding boots are looked upon by many girls as a go-to trend worthy of their time and money when really, those nickels and dimes should go towards a more lasting heel. But then again, ‘tis the season to rock the boot, so here’s some fallen grace to those who need it most.

"Nicolette" Flat Boot, Payless Shoe Source, $34.99

Scalloped Suede Boot, Marc by Marc Jacobs, $575.00

Mossimo "Giselle" Flat Boot, Target, $34.99

Balancing Act

2006-10-16T13:52:00.000-07:00

Today I wore a dirtied chocolate jumper, complete with a slouchy turtleneck and broad empire-waist. I paired the baby doll with whites tights, vintage Goldie flats, and a gold metallic tobo (part hobo bag, part tote). I made the colour really stick with vibrant gold lids and sheer lips. Feeling pulled together, I left the house into the harsh wind. I was but a foot from my doorstep when that wind greeted me and I realized that this dress wasn’t as roomy as I once thought. And it didn’t take me long to realize that yanking down my skirt would be on heavy rotation today.
My point is this: why is it deemed acceptable to wear a very short skirt or dress, so long as it is paired with a heavy-set top like a turtleneck or chunky knit sweater? Sure I wore tights, but such can hardly make up for the severity of my dress hem? I find it horrible that if those tights were misplaced from my legs and the turtleneck and long-sleeves were switched to a scoop neck t-shirt with either short or quarter-inch arms, I would have heard the “S” word a lot today.
Take into consideration any of the variables: change the neck, leg, or arm, and there would have been a completely different image conveyed.
But I’ll give the shallow minds of superficial girls everywhere the benefit of the doubt. Perhaps it’s my somewhat decent reputation which saved me in the end.
And if nothing else, it could merely be a balancing act. Maybe there are rules that say wearing a short skirt can be forgiven with the proper sweater, or vice versa. And is this really new information to any of us? I’ve worn leggings a million times before knowing full well that I am required to wear an oversized, baggy sweater along with them. You can only wear one piece of leopard-print, while making damn sure that everything else is neutral, and just forget about neons with neons.

The Sun Just Got Brighter

2006-10-15T08:46:00.000-07:00

I hate tooting my own horn. Honestly, I do. But when I saw the immersion of those 80’s-inspired Wayfarer glasses (white rims, black lens) rising as a trend for S&S ’07 and late fall 2006, I had to laugh.
Before the past summer even began, I had started a jogging regimen. I ended up jogging with a friend and meeting her at a halfway point between both of our homes. It’s just a small plaza with a Chinese food place, a movie store, a supermarket, and a variety. We stopped in at the variety for some drinks and this extremely aged display of sunglasses caught my eye. Mostly adorned with leftover 90’s pieces, the display also featured a very catty pair of Wayfarer-esque sunnies. I picked them up believing they were a nice alternative to the oversized sunglasses which dominated my wardrobe. They looked funky, suited my face, and definitely fit my budget at an astonishing $1.50.
Low and behold, less than five months later we are seeing the inauguration of such puppies on the faces of Lohan and Olsen. They are running for hundreds no doubt, distributed by bigheads Ray-ban, Chanel, and Proenza Schouler.

Credit: http://stylebites.blogspot.com

Sunday Confession

2006-10-15T06:37:00.000-07:00

A new edition I’ll be adding to IBT, Sunday Confession, will commence on this lonely Sunday in October. It is spent boiling sugar water in a pot as my kettle is out of service right now. My tummy is begging for food, but I say no and subject myself to green tea instead. I’m very cold and it’s very early, and for some reason that combination has led me to be very honest.

I confess to you that I went through a stage of wearing various fishnets and patterned socks over florescent tights. Where did I get the idea? My own mind had been brewing it one day, I suppose. But I am sorry to say that I was overtly attracted to the idea after I read a fashion editor recount it as her greatest fashion faux pas.

What’s your confession?

Hey!

2006-10-15T05:54:00.000-07:00

I’m back! So sorry this hasn’t been updated in awhile. I’ve been horribly busy, lazy, and truth be told, I haven’t had a lot to blog bout. Not that I necessarily do now, but I figured it was as good a time as any to get back on the blogging circuit.
I plan to leave well enough alone when it comes to Paris Fashion Week. The subject has been beaten to death, and we all know our favourites. I know I sort of let you all down with the promised updates, but every other fashion site in the world was on those collections like white on rice.
So yesterday, being a Friday, I thought it a good idea to go shopping. I shopped into the wee hours of the night (in department store-speak, of course) sifting through every rack I could. I found a few cute little items that I thought would be nice to share with you. And since digital cameras aren’t taking a liking to me these days, descriptions are all I’ve got.
The first thing I picked up was a Co-Lab golden metallic handbag. I was interested in the shape, mostly because it is an invariable cross between a hobo and tote style.
Next, I picked up a very cute laced lingerie camisole in pink, along with a various undergarments.
I would then find a thickly knitted cropped cardigan in champagne. It had gorgeous tassel buttons in a rich brown.
And it was around this time that I picked up the mother of my purchases that evening: a Marc by Marc Jacobs Spring 2005 meets Chloe Fall 2006 with a touch of Spring Marni circa any fresh year shirtdress. It is made from a cotton jersey to look like sweat cotton. It is very sheer and very short. It has this perfect length that could translate into a shirt or a dress, or even blocked to be a skirt. Anyways, the sleeves are double-pressed, meaning there is a slight fold on the hem of them.
And finally, I snagged a cute zebra-print tank top that’s rather tight, but hopefully losing some weight will help me fit into it!

Paris Quickie

2006-10-05T13:31:00.000-07:00

I’ve been horribly busy (and also rather lazy) as of late, so I haven’t had the time (or the willpower) to write up the second edition of ‘The Finale’. But as of right now, I am totally loving: Jean Paul Gaultier, Christian Dior, Vivienne Westwood, Ann Demeulemeester, Costume National, Véronique Braquinho, Valentino, Sophia Kokosalaki, Dries Van Noten, Andrew Gn, and Akris.

The Finale Part l

2006-10-02T16:03:00.000-07:00

This is it - the Big One. And how else do we conclude our fashion forwardness for S&S ‘07 but in a way so fantastically perfect it hurts that I didn’t think of it before? Three new categories have been introduced to IBT: Proud, Poor, and The Jury’s Out. Designers will be placed into one of the afore mentioned slots, along with a brief summary of the show. Such will allow for a much needed simplicity in the hectic land of Paris during its legendary fashion week.
So if you are in a hurry and want to get the dirt as soon as possible, scroll through the quickie critique of all featured designers, get the scoop, and see a few snapshots throughout. Enjoy!
I’m proud of Maison Martin Margiela. Although this collection wasn’t exactly my taste (we’re talking striped pieces with a Poncho Pal meets 80’s worker bee feel), I can definitely respect the wear-ability of it. And yet it somehow has managed to be nothing short of over-the-top. The cape t-shirts featured give me a homely sense of divine summertime, a long overdue presence, I might add. Everything has a very lightweight look to it, and comfort seems to be a constant. Most of the collection is graphically cut with an edge of unexpected simplicity. The whole thing is not exactly an A+, mind you. There is a slight case of netting at a point during the show, but it seems designer Margiela is laughing along with us.
Wunderkind is poor. If it weren’t the world of fashion I’d call the first few looks tasteless menswear with a horrible cut. But, of course, I’m not allowed. We are supposed to give our designers artistic preference, though he gave us nothing in return. I was disappointed, but my hopes were honestly never very high. Unsightly footwear paired with a melange of tattered suits, subtly bejewelled peasant skirts, and a bad take on girly frocks makes for an upset blogger. In an effort to afford the audience hats, Wolfgang Joop whipped up some interesting pioneer bonnets and evened them out with safety pin accessories with those cheesy fake flowers strung on the point. As for fit, it was all over the board, along with my lunch. I wasn’t sure if I could make it through the images of Wunderkind but I have and I’m glad. I finally have a chance to tell you all about that little disaster.
The jury’s out on Rick Owens. I can definitely relate to the mindset that this man was clearly in when he concocted these pieces. Shapeless, couture-esque things. Some are dresses, some are overcoats, some are skirts, and some are blouses. Lots of different wear, just like any other collection. The problem is, I can hardly tell where the shirt ends and the skirt begins. I loved the use of tulle (we don’t see it as much as we should these days) but I wasn’t sure about the shapes. I like to see lightness in S&S ‘07 but this seemed to be more outlandishly invisible than light. Part of me is still debating whether or not Owens pinned together rips of chiffon and satin minutes before the show began. It’s artistic, I see that. And I’ve never looked to Paris for truly street-ready clothes. I just didn’t expect such uncommon territory for Rick Owens this time around. It seems his styling is getting less and less complicated as the seasons go by. What do you think?
I’m proud of Balmain. In this collection, I saw Chanel, I saw Jil Sander, I saw last season Chloé even. But I had a hard time finding Balmain. Though amongst all of those khaki bubble skirts, wrap dresses, and golden details, I think I liked it. On the one hand, I saw very clean-cut looks, while a moment later I was introduced to hobo chic with gorgeous touches (I would kill for a farmer cotton bubble skirt with Roman gold leaves). In fact, I got a very mystical vibe, almost like Caesar just after he was stabbed. Things were kept teeny tiny, and in that small canvas there was tons of elaborate effect.

The Return of Doutzen and Some Funky Footwear For You

2006-09-30T09:58:00.000-07:00

And maybe it’s just me, but I haven’t seen Doutzen Kroes at many of the S&S ‘07 shows this year. Or at least not as many as she did last season. Surprising, considering Doutzen was once thought to be one of the most sought-after models in the world. We all know how easily models go ‘out of style’, which must attribute to the fact that models are a part of the most quick-altering field around. The Doll faces (Gemma, Lily, Cintia, Jessica) have practically shoved out The Glamazons (Hilary, Gisele, Carmen), it seems, and are hurriedly being replaced by The Factory Workers (Bette, Lara, Sasha, Freja). So when models step back into the spotlight, models like Doutzen Kroes for example, it makes me smile because we all know how cutthroat and harsh the realm of modelling is and once you’ve made it, you have to fight for it. Doutzen is simply gorgeous, and is rather deserving of a second-pace slot at shows like Dsquared.
On another note, Dsquared also seems to be dusting something off and placing it at the forefront of their collection. A hybrid. Meet the LaSchouste, a cross between the funky flavourings of Lacoste and the muted intricacies of Proenza Schouler. Yes, I have invented the title myself and no, I don’t think it will catch on.

Credit: Style.com

Above: DSquared, Below: Proenza Schouler

Versace Victory

2006-09-30T09:34:00.000-07:00

I’m not usually a fan of Versace’s Euro-trash, over-the-top behaviour pieces, but the S&S ‘07 was fabulous. When I first glanced at and began seeing things I liked, I resolved it to be my nature of fashion forgiveness and my easily impressionable mind. But soon I found almost every look in the collection to be a smash-hit, which is much more than a Hater like me could every ask for. The 80’s swing detail and New Wave appeal has definitely made me rethink the terms of Versace.
And maybe it’s a turning point for head designer Donatella Versace as well. Remembering back to an episode of FT I saw about a month ago, suddenly this change of pace is making sense. Donatella informed host Jeanne Becker that she has come to a new stage in her life. And being the skeptic that I am, I figured that was a European’s way of saying they had a new idea in mind for shell-encrusted leather formal wear. Now I know better!
Looking better than ever, the new and improved Donatella of Versace fame has risen against her past faux pas and created a collection so incredibly relevant I can hardly contain myself. Versace has definitely done me in this time. I’m newly reformed and loving every minute of it!

Credit: Style.com

In Full Blume

2006-09-30T09:17:00.000-07:00

I have just checked out the latest from Blumarine for S&S ‘07 and am definitely in love. Blumarine didn’t do much to mix it up for next season, but who can complain? Sticking to the traditional birthday girl blues is what the label is famous for. I can nary find a look I disliked. The runway wasn’t the adventurous type, considering Blumarine designer Anna Molinari stuck to solid trends and simply chic fabrics that never go out of style.
I even got a taste of the apparently very hot Victorian layered lace with tulle place setting. The soft, cotton candy colouring also tied the look together. So my notions have been confirmed; the romantic lace will carry on lightly into next season.
Throughout the runway, I got several chills, mostly translatable into Dolce & Gabbana and Chanel Couture 2006 feelings. Though I didn’t get the sense that Blumarine had ripped off anyone. The mood was very serene yet energetic, classic yet daring.
And on another hand, the footwear was fabulous. Mary Janes sat perfectly with the two-piece suits, tailored cardigans, and voluminous soiree frocks.
The colouring was also wonderful, featuring shade after shade of gorgeous lavenders, blues, and creams.
I have already selected pieces that I can easily see myself wearing on any given day, as well as light skirts and chic cardigans to be envisioned on the likes of ‘It’ girls like Lindsay or Mischa.
Clearly, Blumarine has managed to appeal to everyone’s tastes for S&S ‘07, a feat they always seem to achieve. I am so proud of this timelessly classic house, existent for decades in ever present glamour.

Credit: Style.com

Topshop To Be Americanized

2006-09-30T08:51:00.000-07:00

Britain’s first born of high street fame, Topshop, will be opening its delightful doors to American citizens very soon. In fact, rumours that it will materialize almost magically in less than a year from now have been fluttering around. As a Canadian shopper, I know two facts of life. Firstly, the United States has far better shopping than that in Canada, to the point where it is no longer fairly comparable. And secondly, anything that comes from overseas, be it the UK or Tokyo, will welcome American customers first and Canadians second. I can understand a company wishing to introductory cater to a country who’s dollar beats out many. But as the war rages on in the Middle East and the Canadian dollar climbs higher and higher, how could a multi-billion dollar company like Topshop exclude Canada from its original running? Fiscally, we are diversifying each and every day. Are we so lowly that we cannot even barter the tidings of a new high street competitor? I definitely think not. Canada is just as willing to participate in estranged shopping as the United States. If not more so. We are hurting for affordable stores that offer something more than your average American Eagle. We aren’t all fashionably-challenged here in Canada. There are just as many Hollister-Bots down below! So if Topshop does happen to overlook our country within the next few years, so be it. They are missing out on a hell of a lot of business. And I suppose I could always drive down to NYC for a little taste…

Credit: http://blogs.papermag.com/

The (Un)Official Spring Trend Report

2006-09-29T20:00:00.000-07:00

We haven’t even seen the highly anticipated Paris finale yet and already media is taking the cutthroat opportunity to place a well-styled shoe into next season’s biggest and best trends.
Enter NY Mag and their latest attempt to unveil what will be ‘hot’ next Spring. And is it such a hard task? We’ve already been introduced to well-rounded repetition and the Milan runways are just beginning to cool down. So when faced with, in some cases, acute duplication, why avoid the harsh reality of a visiting trend? And in a sense, we’ve already mentally slated several wavering assumptions. Why not take it to the next level, combine all of our thoughts, and put them down on a webpage?
To be perfectly honest, I found the trends featured in NY Mag’s Spring Trend Report rather general, which is what any guise-guesser should stick to. In addition, the article mentioned that perhaps their title was slightly misleading. Apparently, the writers were sticking to strictly New York Fashion Week ‘07 trends and highlights, with no European consideration. Of course, the mere thought that our fashion headquarters across seas has no influence on what we wear on a daily basis is beyond ludicrous, but let’s indulge writers Powell and Larocca for a moment anyway. The title was most likely unintentional and was given very little thought. And although NYFW was a major disappointment this year, none of us can bite our lips and testify that it meant nothing to the world of fashion because it meant something - even if not by much.
So we’ll rename it, ’Spring Trend Report: New York Addition’, and tuck away the drama.
Lesson One, rethink everything you thought you knew about acronyms, at least for Spring next year. Reportedly, it’ll all be about the LWD (Little White Dress), as opposed to the LBD. I agree with this theory, seeing how my senses have been assaulted by the simplicity of a white frock for the entirety of the S&S ‘07 Fashion Mass more times than I can count.
Lesson Two, cobalt is coming back to bite all the haters in their proverbial rumps. Remember when you laughed at the daily recreation of thinking up new colours? Remember comparing designers to Crayola factory workers? Well, don’t. Apparently, cobalt will now be recognized as not just a colour, but Spring’s hottest hue.
Lesson Three, consider buying a canary. If not for the purpose of having a friend around the house, you could always tie him around your neck to wear as Spring’s hottest accessory. Yellow will be a lot more than mellow, they say. Start scooping up sunshine garments, as they will be just as hot as those in a good blue.
Lesson Four, black and white patterns will be all the rage. Any old motif, whether it be floral or otherwise, will be right up a Fashionista’s alley.
Lesson Five, now that you’ve mastered the pattern, venture a bit further into the realm. Think 3-D floral, from faux petal sleeves to scrunchy tulle in the shapes of blossoming orchids.
Lesson Six, polka dots are back (NO, PLEASE, NEVER) with a vengeance, accordingly. Yes, the writers say that they are returning as a both mod and feminine staple. What the article failed to point out, but what this writer sees very clearly, is the fact that we seem to be seeing polka dots mostly as faded accents, which doesn’t seem to be as bad as a full-fledged polka NOT.
Lesson Seven, baggy, droopy pants will give skinny jeans a serious wedgie. This upsets me. I love the skinny jean. Unlike other trousers, people seem to be much more aware that they can either work them or they cannot. You don’t have to be a rail-thin model to sport them properly either. But then again, a baggy, slouching pant may be a little more forgiving on those off days.
Lesson Eight, oversized is here to say (THANK YOU, GOD). Although the colouring will differ, many Fall styles may possibly be recycled into next season. Voluminous skirts and dresses with lots of puff are what you want to start saving up for.
Lesson Nine, a softer shine will be present in our wardrobes next Spring, so if you’ve spent the money on expensive clothing that could light a small village, it won’t be wasted. The hues will be altered and the effects will be minimal, but an altogether shine will bring us through the next four months.
Lesson Ten, diving board shoes are what will bring you home at night. Those gladiator-style sandals, bred with the Ugly shoe and beach wedges, will no doubt create a hybrid ready for next year’s Springtime.
So there you have it, someone else’s opinion on what to wear next Spring. Some I fear, some I covet, some I can’t believe. But altogether, a rather accurate article targeting a rather easy prey. New York Fashion Week didn’t offer much. And by sifting through what it did give back to the world of fashion, trends have been uncovered. They’ll need some work, but they just might make it after all.

Credit: NYMag.com

Colour Play

2006-09-29T09:55:00.000-07:00

I must say, I really liked the colouring at Jil Sander S&S ‘07. In my eyes, Raf Simons has always been a very easy trendsetter. He has made the label into a particular, articulate force of fashion, causing others to be overly captivated by his architectural placements and intentional misdemeanours. I was pleasantly surprised by the sudden shock of colour brought about to end the dry, English Gothic demure tactic Jil Sander had achieved last season.
It seems Spring won’t turn out to be a very colour-conscious season. It’s all about inserts, and bringing colour about to an outfit in a mathematical sense. Appropriate angles and seasoned cuts show the many layers of Raf Simons, as well as trends for other designers to pick up on.
I wasn’t bored at all. I felt as if I were at the collegiate interpretation of a 30-second Gap commercial. I even saw a hint of fake bake on the runway a la Natasha Poly.
Things were all in all kept very minimal, as is often the case, and occasionally shiny, which gives me the thought that perhaps we are finally allowed to kick up our clothes and add some funk.
So although the trends for our approaching months are not yet clear, I can say with confidence that we will not be subjected to back-to-back seasons of blasé hues and translucent hums.

Credit: Style.com

Jumpsuit Revival

2006-09-27T14:18:00.000-07:00

What is this I’m seeing of jumpsuit-clad beauties? Please do not attempt to tell me that the 60’s super spy costume is kicking its way through our modern world’s door. I’ve heard talk of PVC coming back for more, but most certainly not in the form of a jumpsuit. And such is what I fear the following images of jumpsuit injustice will soon lead to - glittery things complete with a furry magenta boa and tonic platforms with optional goldfish.
Sure, Camilla Staerk attempts a light, girly, almost pajama-esque rendition of prison’s hottest threads (lower left), but I still can’t trick myself into falling for it.
The unflattering pull and low-slung crotch effect is more than I can handle at this time of day. Just say no to jumpsuit fever.

Credit: Gofugyourself.com and Style.com

Prada Presentation

2006-09-27T10:58:00.000-07:00

Miuccia Prada has always been our go-to girl for budding trends. She is arguably the top innovator in the fashion world. And with that in mind, we often take her collections with a grain of salt. I personally find it hard to envision a mainstream attachment with her pieces, especially those for the coming Spring and Summer seasons. Prada never fails to shock and surprise us, and this collection is no different.
Hollow hopes have been attached through anticipation to the now unveiled S&S ‘07 series. As if people have just clued in that Prada influences every awaiting designer in the book. And it seems Miuccia herself has finally grasped the concept as well. Clearly tired of couture copycats, Prada has broken away into an interesting category all on its own.
The runway featured not just a Bohemian feel, but an intensely cultural one. Cuts, patterns, and accessories smell richly of Middle Eastern templates. We saw turbans, saris, and even hiking packs attached to leading models Sasha Pivovarova, Raquel Zimmerman, and Julia Dunstall.
Aside from these unexpected concepts, we were introduced to high-waists rather than drop-waists, rounded shoulders, simple 50’s housewife cuts, and plenty of satin in a rainbow of different colours. Leave it to Prada to leave Springtime grays in the dust.
So there you have it. Something so brilliantly different, it is difficult to love. Such is what I mean when I say we take will take it with a grain of salt. Can torn-up, fringe handbags and blouses possibly become the norm of our closet hooks and hangers? It’s rather hard to tell, especially to early on in the Fall season. Let me know if you are impressed or distressed with Prada?

Credit: Style.com

Runway Copycat

2006-09-26T11:53:00.000-07:00

It isn’t uncommon to be scrolling through slides of a designer’s latest runway effort and feel a sense of déjà-vu. Designers have been copying the clothing of their competition (or, at times, ’inspiration’) for years. But creativity has come to a brand new low at the Maurizio Pecoraro S&S ’07 RTW show in Milan. Not only has this runway copycat been accused of stealing clothes, but also the runway. Literally. Does this look familiar?

Well, if you paid any attention at New York Fashion Week, it should. Enter the brightly questionable Marc Jacobs S&S ‘07 show. Remember that neon green raised runway with the jagged curves? Looks like Pecoraro just couldn’t help himself!

And aside from the stage stealing, Pecoraro’s take on the shirt dress sings a close tune to both Banana Republic and Marc Jacobs. In fact, the entirety of his collection is very heavily ‘inspired’. I find myself grasping at straws to conjure respect for this weakly imitative showing of fallen grace.

Credit: Style.com

NeWs

2006-09-26T11:35:00.000-07:00

W Magazine, one of the largest (literally - it registers at about 33cm by 25cm) magazines in North America, is launching a new counterpart. Aptly titled WJ, the magazine will issue quarterly and feature the finest in jewellery from around the world. I can only assume we will be seeing plenty of high drama couture in the coming issues.
Click here for the opportunity to receive a free issue of WJ, brought to you by W in partnership with Style.com. You must be an American citizen to register, so that rules me out. Please let me know how you find it!

Credit: www.pubservice.com

Pretty in Pringle

2006-09-26T10:52:00.000-07:00

Truth be told, I seem to have given up on covering the various fashion weeks after my initial disappointment from NYFW. Of course, giving up on such a general field of fashion seems a bit shameful, especially after a simple sad shock. It’s like giving up on a designer wholly after one tasteless show. But sifting through runways by almost every designer featured, looking for a chance to uncover a great diamond in the rough is terribly time consuming. And while complete coverage is beyond commendable, it is somewhat a waste of time. Stating your opinions in a simple box is what a fashion journalist should do best, and we all know selective articles are what writers must do. So let’s cut to the chase and talk favourites. Pringle of Scotland's minimalist designs didn’t exactly intrigue me but they certainly drew me in. The feminine cuts are what I look most forward to for Spring. The drop-waist dress and mid-waist pant made a large and undesirable appearance, but I couldn’t possibly hold that against the collection.
So maybe it was boring, but also shiny and sweet and delicate. Staple pieces allow creativity to prosper, and I very much felt that vibe from Pringle of Scotland S&S ‘07.

Credit: Style.com

Idn't Dat Classy?

2006-09-26T10:36:00.000-07:00

The grossest part of this picture is that doily dress on 100-year-old Tommy's girlfriend. Fashion is a terribly hard world to watch at times.

Credit: dlisted

Sewld!

2006-09-25T17:05:00.000-07:00

So I just got an antique sewing machine and it seems to be in good running order. Now, I’m hoping to get started on my learning experience as soon as possible. I have heard of a few potentially helpful sewing books (namely the one written by Built By Wendy designer Wendy Mullin) but if you have a preference or have heard good things about one in particular, please let me know! Thanks a bunch!

Save Your Money

2006-09-25T16:55:00.000-07:00

Payless Shoe Source is now more than ever coming out with shoes relevant to fashion today. I have never seen so many styles I like from the store notorious for neon paisley flats, light-up stilettos, and grandma’s gardening gear. Adorable ankle boots, simple ballet flats, and sleek pumps, all adorned with ribbons and stitching are everywhere at Payless this Fall. Some even starting at $13!
I am now looking at Payless in a whole new light. I even noticed an ad in my recent U.S Elle magazine illustrating gorgeous patent leather pumps with two-toned straps paired with a matching patent purse, both under $20. I love finding a bargain, but this is ridiculous. Shoes I adore for prices that not only fit my budget, but help maintain it.
Payless is issuing the best footwear I have seen from them in a long time. It’s classy, sophisticated, and rather suitable for this season.
I wish my researching skills were up to par, for if they were I would most definitely hunt down designer dittos comparable to the pennywise pieces found at Payless. Stuff like that gives us all such a great sense of satisfaction.
I plan to stop by the store at least once by the end of the week to uncover some great deals. And yes, I have been spending large amounts of money lately but with prices like these, I can’t stand to wait another minute. My size sells out fastest, leaving cruddy wannabes in their wake!

Credit: Payless.com

L.A.M.B. Revisited: A Little More Celeb Designer Appropriate

2006-09-25T14:33:00.000-07:00

A while back, I saw something to the effect of candy girl tween handbags in some colourful magazine. I’m returning to the very thought simply because I’ve been talking a lot about Gwen Stefani lately and have been reminded of the attack on my senses from U.S Elle.
Harajuku Lovers is another string of finance fronted by Rocker-Turned-Chart Topper Gwen Stefani. Though you won’t see any catwalks here. It is strictly cutesy stuff that the skeptical side of me believes is all Gwen is capable of designing.
To be honest, Gwen’s obsession with the Harajuku District of Tokyo frightens me. I went through a little Fresh Fruits phase myself, but have since recovered. Gwen Stefani, on the other hand, has gone all out by devoting an entire fashion line to the children of Harajuku, consisting mostly of things they wouldn’t be caught dead wearing. Pictured below are the fruits of her labour. Dollar store knick-knack bags that resemble primary school pencil cases. But what else could one possibly expect? Her target audience is a mild group of primary scholars, hunting for the perfect place to tuck away their gel pens.
Perhaps I am being overly condescending, but how can I take the woman seriously in the fashion world when she produces crap like this?

Credit: Trendystars.com

The Quilt Issue

2006-09-25T13:46:00.000-07:00

Hello again! I am so sorry for not posting much these past few days. To be honest, it’s felt like years. It’s good to be back (I was off in Montreal for a spell) and working it out.
Whilst in Montreal, I visited the downtown shopping scene, said to be something quite extraordinary for your average Canadian city. I stopped on Ste-Catherine Street, which I know as the Designer District. I spent some time in Aldo, a footwear and accessory store that is, to my knowledge, indigenous to Quebec.
Now, as any of us know, finding a great deal is essential to a real shopping trip. So let’s just say this was the realest shopping trip I have ever been on.
Aldo is rather affordable, I’m not going to lie. It isn’t over the top merchandise, so the prices vary accordingly. But when I stumbled across a little thing called the Aldo Liquidation Store, I flipped out. It is situated down near the end of the street where things begin to get a little scummy. I was not discouraged. I went in there and bought up some wonderful pieces for a wonderful deal.
I ended up buying two handbags, a thick black waist belt, and brown beaded boho earrings. I avoided shoes strictly because the sizes left were not exactly desirable to my poor, scarred, and rather large feet.
But I do not intend to discuss all of my booty. It is one particular item in question that I have been meaning to talk about.
I found myself oddly attracted to an oversized, circular-base, understated khaki tote. Nothing unusual there. Except for the fact that it was of the quilted variety.
I’ve been strangely drawn to these somewhat tacky, yet hopelessly trendy handbags. I saw an oversized champagne-coloured one earlier this month and was this close to buying it, but my funds were running quite low.
I went for this bag, titled the Fairmont, because I had the money and suddenly felt like I had the right, the confidence even, to lug around such a thing. A bag associated with the silver-buckled, “Let’s Not”, Guess? bag seen on fashion none-it-alls everywhere. But there I was, buying it. I haven’t yet lived to regret it but then again, I also haven’t worked it into an outfit. I guess my integrity will truly be put to the test when I bring my new baby around town.
But when exercising one’s own style, one should never allow oppositional conjecture come into one’s mind. Sure, trends are fun, but I personally hold chic prerogative much higher. If I want to hold a quilted bag, I will. And so should you!

L.A.M.B. or L.A.M.E. ?

2006-09-17T11:39:00.000-07:00

Yes, we have been bred to hate all interpretations of style that come from the likes of celebrities. The main catalyst? The simple ‘fact’ that these labels are not controlled by the celebrity in question at all but more so by an appointed leader with a number of collaborations under his or her belt.
We’ve seen lines by them all: from the Olsen’s to the Simpson’s. And each and every one is articulated by an aging man in leather, deciding that men and women will soon be feeling jean jackets with ersatz lettering or tube tops made of tissue paper. In fact, the thought of said man can frighten a celeb so much that they often stray away from the business of high fashion in general and steer their looks towards tweeny boppers or puppy dogs. Some may even snuff clothes to begin with and shoot for the more achievable perfume fame.
So what differs Gwen Stefani from the pack? Well, for one, she showed up at NY’s S&S ’07 Ready-To-Wear presentation among bigheads like Donna Karen, Ralph Lauren, and Y-3. But as a collective, can we the public possibly merit a mere appearance as a sign of a truly dedicated designer? Promotion after promotion can hardly coax me into believing that this woman is serious about her new foray into the world of fashion. I distinctly remember a huge campaign warranting the up-and-coming label Rocawear, backed by rapper Jay-Z. We all saw how that turned out. We all knew how that would turn out. It’s not that our singers and actors and socialites (oh my!) aren’t capable of turning out high street duds, it’s simply that they aren’t invested enough. It’s a money-maker, basically. Another branch to their ever-growing empire. And why slave meticulously over a craft which you are simply not inclined towards? That’s where the temptation of an in-house designer comes into play. Hiring John Doe with X credentials is much more appealing than Diva Dana with an MTV Movie Award.
But we’ve seen success in the past. Sean ‘P. Diddy’ Combs has come to gain much respect over his rather high profile affiliation with Sean John. But how much involvement was there?
So when it comes to Ms. Stefani I ask: How much was personal interest and how much was personal finance?
The label shares face with Zaldy Goco, a former model turned designer. So a collaboration did arise… But I cannot help but wonder about Goco taking over L.A.M.B. Gwen, as we’ve seen over the years, has been a very style-conscious woman. And whether or not she has always made appropriate choices when it comes to her attire, she has always made premeditated decisions. I question the level of control a personal stylist has ever had over her.
So maybe Gwen’s a stylish girl, but does that make her able to whip up a whole S&S line-up? The skeptical side of me laughs maliciously but the less cynical side sighs in wondering belief. Why not?
Now, the collection in question is very hit or miss with me. Some I love, some are distasteful and notoriously Bad-Celeb-Label. But let us highlight the fact that I, along with many other critics, did find serenity in a good portion of L.A.M.B. Spring 2007. So is it L.A.M.E. or very much L.A.M.B.?
Take the poll and decide yourself!

Take the poll

Free Poll by Blog Flux

Credit: www.style.com

Meet My My

2006-09-17T07:17:00.000-07:00

Every so often I contribute a new addition to the ‘I Want You To Know About…’ section of IBT, located on the right-hand navigation bar. It’s a growing collection of sassy sites or demure designers and I honestly wish I updated it more than I do.
But today I came across a site I couldn’t possibly cast away into the Never-Never Land of ‘Suggested Shopping’.
Please meet My My, a site dedicated to makin’ it 100% yourself. Of course, the minds behind My My don’t expect you, precious reader, to make it yourself. They’ve gathered the cream of the crop from ‘zines, DIY-ers, and independent craftheads to present on their cutesy website, shown here.
With merchandise comparable to such found on websites such as Fred Flare and Lazy Oaf, you’d think My My offers the same ol’ thing - knit bunnies and colourful mushroom bed sheets. But the sense of homeliness found here is so overwhelming, it causes one to take a step back and appreciate the art of handmade magic.
So please feel free to browse through the smorgasbord of knitting wonders, plush creatures, and mail art projects, because you won’t be sorry.
Plus, glance over introductions from indie fashion lines. It’s a great place to discover links to other great websites like Seamripper!

Credit: http://mymy.us

Style Management 101

2006-09-15T14:10:00.000-07:00

In case you’ve missed the article on Closet Therapy, let me fill you in on one of those rare products that really make you believe that your prayers have been answered.
I personally find that outfit management is a skill, somewhat transferable. I can spend up to twenty minutes staring into my closet in a rather dismal attempt to select clothes for the day. Doing so will often make me late for school and thus, wind up with a rushed outfit. I usually force myself to come up with an outfit the night before as I fall asleep but I rarely make the cut before my eyes glue shut for the night.
So I was thrilled when I learned of the Style Planner. It’s a neat little thing that won’t help you remember your co-worker’s birthday or your spa appointment. Instead, it will allow you to plan for an outfit weeks in advance.
It’s currently running for $8 on www.seejanework.com (a total bargain), so grab one before you too suffer from the I-Got-Dressed-Too-Quickly-And-Am-Sufficiently-Unhappy Syndrome.

Credit: www.closettherapyblog.com and www.seejanework.com

NYFW Final Bulletin

2006-09-15T13:42:00.000-07:00

Today is the very last day of New York Fashion Week. I’ll try to get to the point as quickly as possible to avoid any unintended brain damage from the overkill coverage of the event.
Anna Sui. A current favourite of mine. I find most of her pieces much too cute to pass up. In a way, Anna Sui is a rite of passage. It’s a thing girls just do. And so, I was looking forward to doing Anna Sui S&S ‘07.
Throughout the show (and although I was not literally there, I scrolled through slides in real time as if I were) I found I was taken to many different places. And the transition was anything but bumpy. The audience slowly rolled through desperate Mexican style all the way to a gothic motif. But a common denominator was present for the entirety and that’s what I like to see. These subdued yet ever-present carpet patterns. At first, they very much reminded me of a Mexican setting, but Anna Sui quickly took me to a completely different perspective. I was seeing these patterns looking absolutely oppositional to Mexican culture. I saw the periodical sense of the collection, as well as a rough, hip portion. I was surprised with the impression this collection has left on me. I would never have expected something so eccentric and profound from the likes of Anna Sui. Not to say the woman isn’t deep, but I have never seen something like this from her before.
And maybe the clothes didn’t hit a 10 on my personal scale, but the fact remains that this collection has registered as beyond inspiring.

Michael Kors. Michael Kors kept it real this year with simple, sexy pieces dedicated to the world of dancing. It’s interesting. I picked up a copy of the H&M magazine a few weeks ago during the summer and came across an editorial about an emerging trend known to most as ’Harmony’. Seems like things were dead on, because pieces from the editorial were beyond comparable to the pieces from Michael Kors S&S ‘07.

Y & Kei. They kept it very simple for our upcoming Spring with sleek bobs and plain palettes. The clothing featured seems to be one of the quietest collections so far from NYFW. I liked the flirty dresses and the whole light emotions radiating from all of the models. And while some of the excess frills made my head spin, I still like pretty as much as I like any other approach to Spring.

Credit: www.style.com

All in the Family

2006-09-13T18:20:00.000-07:00

“He was born laughing… He never cried. My mother nicknamed him Chuckles. That stuck. Everybody called him Chucky.”
Who is this darling woman raving about? And who’s that kissing her!? Fashion Week Daily supplies gossipettes with some serious juice on everyone’s third or fourth favourite reality television judge.
Love him or hate him, it hardly matters when Mommy Kors, a former fashionista herself, is in his corner.
And as a last note, can you believe Michael Kors was a hippie? WHO WORE FRINGE? Actually, now that I think about it, it ain't so hard to believe...

If You're Bitter and You Know It, Clap Your Hands

2006-09-13T14:34:00.000-07:00

For those of you who hate that bitch, I figured you'd enjoy this:

I don't know if this was the look that Heatherette was going for this year, but they certainly did acheieve that greasy drag queen persona. I am loving the roots on Paris Hilton. How delightfully dirty.

This is Love ♥

2006-09-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

Readers, remember that I love you all - especially those of you who also share my passion of fast lane fashion journalism. Please check my Crème Couture section whenever you visit IBT because I make new additions each and every day.
Your blog may be placed alphabetically amongst the Greats and usually all you have to do is ask.
So next time you come to read about whatever, remember that you could be my next obsession!

Mischa and Marc

2006-09-12T13:35:00.000-07:00

Mischa Barton and Marc Jacobs should just run away and live together for two reasons: a.) Both their names start with ‘M’ and b.) They both were seriously feeling some unreasonably ugly clothes the other day.
As you may know by now, I refuse to talk about the Marc Jacobs S&S ‘06 collection. So this is the last thing of it I will mention - even if it is only in correlation.

Mischa, oversized is awesome. Metallics are marvellous. But combined together this sort of fashion is neither of the above mentioned adjectives. I object.

Another NYFW Bulletin

2006-09-12T13:13:00.000-07:00

I have glimpsed the Marc Jacobs S&S ‘07 collection and thought long and hard on how to approach the matter and properly express my feelings towards it. My final conclusion was to avoid the topic altogether. I am in a state of shocking morose, considering Marcy J almost always issues clothing I am a huge fan of.
Moving on, I also had a look at the potentially devastating Proenza Schouler collection and did not find myself disappointed. Perhaps some of the outfits put together by designers Hernandez and McCollough are too over-the-top for your average Josephine, but the pieces themselves are to die for. And who of us can afford an entire outfit slammed with the Proenza Schouler dog tag, anyway?
I found the awkward and overall stiff cuts to be fabulously flattering in their own ingenious way. The bright colours mixed with the bland really make you think. And as for the eighties boy-man flare? I like it! But my biased old self can hardly be accountable for detailing what is appropriate for Springtime chic.
Otherwise, you can believe me when I say that the Schouler pieces are a grand slam. I think they will aid the development of trends for the coming months. And is that so bad? To a girl that has seen no meriting trends for Spring/Summer as of yet, it is not so bad at all.
A final note on the collection, it offers an interesting but not exactly revolutionary take on shoes. Some shoes I like, many I don’t. And as for the recurring hat theme, I say nay.
Next I’ll highlight the typical yet, I hate to say it, magnificent collection by Max Azria. Although this line constantly issues the same ol’ thing, they always make me excited about it. I happen to love their rendition of ‘the same ol’ thing’, especially this year. Every piece shares a common denominator and that seems to be “I just threw this on.” And it’s completely true! Every look is simple, undone, and understated in a way which makes me think back to what I wore today. I shouldn’t have added that extra something. Let it be in Max Azria’s plain farm cottons and simply graceful slips.
And finally, may I just say that I was very surprised by Myself by Kai Kuhne. He has finally come into his own and created pieces that can stampede down the runway and in a settling and similar tone. The pieces are eloquent, sleepy, and quiet. Though it was refreshing, like taking a hot shower. I felt the shame of runway road kill washed off of me as I viewed.

NYFW Bulletin

2006-09-10T19:33:00.000-07:00

As you all must know, I’ve possessed a certain amount of giddiness through the days leading up to New York Fashion Week. I hate to say it, but it makes dressing for the impending seasons reasonably undemanding. NYFW keeps its finger rested firmly on the pulse of couture and this year is no exception. In this quick bulletin from what we’ve all seen so far, I will attempt to delve into the more predictable trends to be seen in our warmer months. Let’s begin from the top, shall we?
A soft, muted colour palette is nothing new for the Spring/Summer months, although the funny thing is, our fall has been full of the very same. So I was happy to see plenty of punchy colouring and inserts in the most commercial line-ups. A perfect example is the Alexandre Herchcovitch collection, which happened to make it onto the very biased review from Style.com. I noticed plenty of Americana Beach meets Easy Mexican, including both hue and pattern. I’m not a big fan of the architectural designs and intrusive colouring but I love the boldness and the idea behind it all.
Of course, the bombardment of light, white frocks is to be expected every Spring, regardless. And the bouncy frocks featured on the runway this year are just what I need to forget about Wintertime. What can I say? Skin is in, like never before. Tiny negligee-inspired pieces are being flaunted by several bigheads and they couldn’t be sweeter. We’re looking at pleats, pulls, and primps S&S ‘06.
Metallics still seem to be holding on for dear life as evidence in the Josh Goot collection. This really makes me glad because is it just me or has the Fall held such a high number of trends to be followed? Who has the wallet thick enough to support each and every one of these fads? Good for the world of metallics to be played in heavy rotation. It’s cute, appropriate, and romantic.
Shapeless shifts are still pushing through to next season, as well as the metallic shine. I happen to love the shapeless dress and all the recreation that comes with it.
As for details, shoes are still in repetition, Holy Mother hoops are hot, and wait - did I just spot a freakin’ fanny pack?!

Taurine is the New Black

2006-09-07T12:59:00.000-07:00

Has anyone else noticed that every couple of months a new caffeine craze comes along? They start off as simple must-haves on the celebrity shopping list, though quickly transfer into the latest energy trend. And although Starbucks has been a hot item for a few years amongst A-Listers, I’m sure we can all agree that at the beginning of this year, the company’s popularity was through the roof. Then, after Starbucks retreated back into their We’re-Just-A-Lifestyle-Staple-Now-Not-A-Trend mantra, energy drinks came in at full speed. And now they themselves are struggling to gain the mantra that Starbucks has perfected. And let me just say, with Monster, Full Throttle, and Red Bull at every convenience store in North America, it’s safe to say that their “struggle” is a little less dramatic than the average one. So now that Starbucks and energy drinks have both basically settled themselves in to the Caffeine Hall of Fame, something new and exciting is bound to come our way. And what could that be?
Readers, I would like to take a turn at the Predict-O-Meter for just a moment, if you please. I’m thinking that a revolutionary new gum is really going to knock the socks of every trend-whored celebrity (these are the ones who have been around the block of fads) in our sweet, sweet world. And then the masses will inset riot towards this particular item and in a few months, we’ll be left with yet another Way of Life.
You may have heard of Mad-Croc Energy Gum if you live in Europe. The whole Mad-Croc Incorporation has made millions there already. It’s just a matter of time before the likes of Hilary, Lindsay, and Paris all pick it up.
Mad-Croc issues energy drinks, as well as an amazing energy gum. I can personally testify towards the stuff, as I buy it every time I visit the United States. The flavour leaves something to be desired, so I suggest chewing it with another piece of non-energy gum. It’s thick, huge, and two pieces contain as much caffeine as an 8 oz. energy drink or one cup of coffee. That’s about 40 mg. And it’s no lie! The combination of ingredients like vitamins, taurine, and caffeine really get your motor going. And what’s so surprising about that? All of the afore mentioned treats are found in your favourite energy drink.
I have only really seen the gum at Target stores, although I’m sure it is available in other markets.
You heard it here first, folks. Mad-Croc Energy Gum is going to be Mad-Contagious, Mad-Soon.

Wedged Between This Season and the Next

2006-09-06T19:39:00.000-07:00

When wedges made their first comeback this year, I was more than happy to put a quirky pair of cork-themes on my wish list. To be honest, I never ended up buying any of the pairs I thoughtfully tried on in my head as I browsed through fashion magazines. But so long as I mentally succumbed to the trend, I feel adequate enough to say that I was a minor participant. But people, that was months ago! We’re moving into the chilly winds of autumn by now and you’re still hopelessly clinging to these “inspirations”.
And let’s be honest here. Wedges are downright ugly. It’s as if the creator couldn’t decide between a 70’s disco platform (equipped with live fish and plastic seaweed) and naturalist hiking/evening pumps. That whole sentence was jammed pack with a lot of indecision. So instead of being my usual irresolute self, I’ll be dead blunt. I’ve come to the conclusion that no, I do not like the wedge. I’m sick and tired of it. Unlike the oversized tote and the jumbo Jackie O glasses, I don’t believe wedges have staying power. You can only reinvent yourself in so many ways. Please, go away.

Yeah, Baby Cont'd

2006-09-06T15:53:00.000-07:00

Yeah, Baby!

2006-09-06T15:27:00.000-07:00

Babydoll dresses are heating up and I couldn’t be happier! There are just so many different things to love about them. I could most likely go on for hours and hours about the temporary luxury of such an item but instead, I’ll spare you the lecture. Appreciate the dresses for what they are - not for what someone else tells you they could be. Because although a babydoll dress looks good on just about anybody, it takes a certain attitude to wear it correctly. There is also a specific state of mind in the background as well. I completely embrace the cultural differences of fashion and understand the old phrase “We’re all different!” But honestly, staples are staples and they are awful hard to avoid.
What I like about these dresses is the freedom they embody. They have all the bells and whistles you could possibly ask for. It’s like finding that dream car with a smorgasbord of features for you to choose from. Sleeves, straps, halter, collar, cinching, ruffles, lace, tulle. And although they offer so many different formats, they’ll always look classically babydoll. They’re so unique and still so uniform.
But here I go, lecturing after I promised not to. But I present a passion for babydoll dresses. Albeit obsessive, it’s still legitimately healthy. I can still control my spending urges when in the presence of these legendary frocks! The question is: can you? Have a looksie at some of the cutest babydoll dresses currently available for less than you’d expect.

The Blister Effect

2006-09-06T13:59:00.000-07:00

They may not be glamorous - but they sure do happen a lot. We all know what it’s like: Buy a new pair of shoes, wear them immediately, try to break them in, wilt from the pain they bring to your feet.
I’m in a horrible boat. I know blisters all too well. My feet are big and wide; the worst kind out there. I can never find a nice pair that fit properly. So I’ve succumbed to the science of breaking a shoe in. It’s worked before, it’ll hopefully work again.
See, I’ve recently bought two new pairs of shoes. One pair of hot pink pointy-toed flats in a delicious patent. And another pair of little black ballet flats with teensy bows. Both are rather tight, but in a firm way. The problem is, after an entire day of school (or even half of that) I will develop horrible blisters on my feet in either pair.
On the first day of school (a half day, luckily) I chose to wear the ballet flats. All was fine and dandy for about an hour. And then my feet began to ache. I ended up getting horrid blisters after my first time wearing the things. I conceded that to be the initial break-in. The next day (today) I wrongly made up my mind to wear the pink flats for the first time. Not only did they worsen the original blisters, but they created new ones. In fact, when I got home and removed my shoes, I realized that they had sliced a long, thin line into my lower ankle. There was blood all over my heel!
So my feet are currently killing me and what’s worse? There’s a full day of school tomorrow as well as a full work shift. So I’m about ready to cut my feet off!
Otherwise, my outfit today was stellar. All black except two pink accents: the shoes and a swipe of pink shadow on my lids.
But the point of this article is to help save any girl from further pain after a long day of breaking new shoes into size. So here’s some help, ladies.

Try icing them if sitting for a long period of time.
Soak them in cool saltwater.
Do not pop them. Or, if already popped, do not peel off skin.
If blister is in vulnerable area, cover it with padding.
Try using a zinc cream to dry up blister.
Do not use folk remedies such as application of vinegar or butter.

Bone Up!

2006-09-06T13:41:00.000-07:00

What I’ve been noticing this month as far as celebrity trends reach is the cropping skull. Mostly found in the form of a headscarf/handkerchief, our fatal friends have come a little too early for Halloween.
The funny thing is, not more than a year ago skulls were thought to be a faux pas. They were reserved for costumes, Goths, and horror movies. But now the symbol can be found on much softer palettes such as Ashlee Simpson or MK Olsen.
What I don’t understand is why this darling little trend (which, I assure you, has not been over-looked) hasn’t been picked up by underground icons or mainstream fashionistas. With names like RICHIE, MILLER, and LOHAN sporting the goods, wouldn’t you assume girls everywhere would be leaping on the stuff.
And it’s not like it’s so hard to find. Take a step (if you dare) into the punk rock garage known as Hot Topic and I’m sure you’ll be bombarded with more skulls, snakes, and studs than the eye can possibly bare. I myself picked up a skull-print scarf when I stopped through a Rue 21 at an outlet mall. We don’t have Rue 21 where I live and I had no idea what was in there until a few days ago during one of my infamous shopping trips. I can’t say I enjoyed the store but I’m not going to lie, I saw one or two things in there that I actually found nice. Including the skull scarf.
So back to the inquisition on the nature of all things rock ’n’ roll. So far, we’ve checked off the possibility of the skull scarf being a hard item to find. My only other guess is that girls who would normally ditto exact outfits of their favourite stars cower at the sight of something too tough to handle. And let it be noted that skulls can put a girl with an undeveloped sense of style into a very iffy category. If a young woman must look up to her fashion “superiors” for a taste of what she should present herself as, she can hardly be a confident, progressive individual, now can she?
Skulls and confidence have a lot more to do with each other than the Average Josephine might think.
So don’t be shy, be sly. Wear the undercover bones you’ve heard so much, yet so little about.

Lions and Turtles and Bears - Oh My!

2006-09-05T16:01:00.000-07:00

What do you think? Honestly. Honestly? I’ve always turned away from the shame a turtleneck brings. I cannot tell a lie. But I also cannot deny that I can be a bit of a trend whore, and this season is so not an exception.
The turtleneck is everywhere. You all know it. But the rest of the world doesn’t. People recoil as they scream “EW, I LOATHE TURTLENECKS.”
But people, turtlenecks are a hot commodity. I was once like you, but then I was found by the gorgeous oversized sweater with a turtle-style neckline. And when I saw this fabulous-fitting dress in such an equally fabulous shade (muted colours? Yes, please!) for a very fabulous price, I couldn’t help myself. My biggest challenge is converting my critical friends into turtle-believers. If only they knew a cent about fashion, I wouldn’t have to endure their dirty looks and unkind whispers! But, I’m sorry to say, they do not.
So, tell me what you think of this. I’m on the fence, toppling over into the land of sea creatures (that’s a turtle joke, everyone).
By the way, here are some fabulous turtle-y good looks for you!

School's Back, No More Summer

2006-09-05T15:36:00.000-07:00

For the first day of school I didn't want to go over the top. I wanted to start the year off in subtle brilliance, not super Bratz doll. So Reserved Me compromised with Daring Me to pull of a showy yet appropriate number that I felt rather comfortable in, actually. Aside from my feet, which are now riddled with the presence of painful blisters.
I straightened my hair with my $230 flat iron (not meaning to brag). I used my fringe to somewhat cover the bad pluck job I performed on my right eyebrow earlier that morning.
I then swept my face with a simple concealer to retain naturalism wherever possible. I added some black mascara for edge and a softer black shadow to line my bottom lids as delicately as I could. Next I stained my cheeks with a rosy, warm colour and that was that.
I had actually thought up an outfit the night before and was left only to figure out the logistics this morning. Yesterday, whilst shopping up a storm in the States, I picked up a fabulous blouse sans buttons at my favourite outfitter, Forever 21. I actually bought it in orange-red, not blue. I then proceeded to throw on my absolute best skinny jeans. Now, all that was left was footwear and accessories. I decided to throw in a waist belt to break up the shirt, which is rather long. And after sifting through all sorts of belts, I chose a black leather (!) Calvin Klein. It’s fat, with a plain silver buckle. Very classy. I was then torn between my brand new black flats or my older black flats with a diamond strap. The news ones were simple, elegant, and best of all, new. But my older ones had a diamond strap that would co-exist nicely with the belt buckle and leave possible room for accessorizing. I settled for the new ones and shunned a silver elephant pendant that would have gone nicely with the diamond-strapped flats.
At first, I thought the shirt to be a bit too much, but I grew into it throughout the day.
All in all, I’d say my first day of school was a success.

Paul & Joke Part 2

2006-09-05T15:10:00.000-07:00

So I know this is the second mini-series I’ve conducted on this blog but I have to follow up my Paul & Joke story simply because I visited Target yesterday (along with that specific collection) and you'll never guess what!
Now, I know in the last article I went from ragging on Paul & Joe for conforming to simply saying that I am growing rather fond of both the economy and upper-class collections.
BUT I RETRACT BOTH STATEMENTS.
And this is why: So, as I said, I dropped by Target last night. It was my last day of summer vacation and I figured shopping in another country would be a nice way to end it. It was a totally nice day. I bought some really great stuff (which I will discuss in another post) and had a really yummy lunch. And, as we all know, lunch is very very important.
Unfortunately, the lunch stuffed me rather sufficiently and I was left with a little bit of a bloat. Looking pregnant and unhappy was not my problem that day. My problem was looking at fugly crap clothes while I looked pregnant and unhappy.
Paul & Joe head designer Sophie Albou needs to get over the fact that she’s French. Honestly, it’s cute that she’s trying to modernize the Language of Love but she needs to learn a thing or two about the foundations of marketing. Or maybe even avoid time traveling back to her days as a teenaged social reject and instead have a look out of her downtown duplex window at the real world.
From what I see, girls today are not interested in wearing faded floral patterns similar to those found on muumuus or nursing scrubs. Now, this is just strictly based on my knowledge of the runway and what I observe day to day. Given, I do see a not much beyond denim mini-skirts and thermal sweaters from Abercrombie and Cinch. But let’s pretend for a minute that all the fashion-conscious young women in this country were gathered into one space for just a moment. I have a sneaking suspicion that none of them would be caught dead in the likes of Paul & Joe for Target - The Secret Yet True Collection.
What do I mean by the Secret Yet True Collection? As melancholic as I am to say it, I cannot illustrate the attire for you. That is what makes it so hush-hush. Target does not show these garments (the majority of the collection) on their website. It’s the stuff found only in the stores. A nice little surprise for a consumer after they’ve been promised rather tolerable hounds tooth and pleats.
And these ugly creations I saw at Target weren’t the leftovers either! I have been to Target twice since the Paul & Joe collection has started. The first time I went, I was quite disappointed but resolved that these must just be all the non-sellers (and I could see why) that remained from a picked-over shipment several weeks old. But upon my second trip, the entire section devoted to the brand was muddled with what I call P&J - TSYTC. Disgusting prints, horrendous cuts, outrageous fits, childish stitching, and an all-around gross fest.
Just say no when it comes to two garcons named Paul et Joe.

Gone Thriftin' Part 2

2006-09-03T15:31:00.000-07:00

Heavily inspired by my previous article, I Googled ‘thrift’ into my excellent automatic search engine. Here are my findings!
1. I first came across the Value Village website. VV is the thrift store I was hoping to visit tonight. I was suddenly hit by a nervous jitter and sought to find the store locator in order to learn of the store hours. I was halfway to my desired page when I reminded myself that it was Sunday, a shopper’s worst nightmare. I didn’t even need to look at the hours to know it was already closed. But, I do want to tell you about a couple cutesy things I found while visiting value village.com
http://www.savers.com/redesigners/ - They offer some actually useful DIY that won’t cost much more than $20!
http://www.valuevillage.com/instore/ - Open the Adobe Acrobat Reader article of some style direction. Several DIY ideas as well as an honest attempt at Fall scouting.
2. I then returned to my Google search where I found the Brit site www.thriftdeluxe.com. It’s an adorable tribute to the DIY lifestyle. With ideas for alternative picture framing, record bowls, and cheese grater lamps, you know this site is golden. There are clothing and accessory charmers, too! The site provides you with a list of tools, a difficulty level, an estimated time, and how much it’ll cost you!
3. Returning to Google, I found I was suddenly lost in the thrifty car rental department, so I redirected my focus to Do-It-Yourself. Unfortunately, I got a lot of at-home work projects and boat painting designs. DIY clothing might be a safer bet. I wound up at www.teengirlclothing.com/DIY.html. I was really only a fan of the scrap fabric purse idea. Although I would have mine quite different from the example shown, the concept itself is gloriously catty.
4. Now I’ve given up the Google search and am off to find an old DIY book I had when I was younger and too lazy to do anything in it.
5. Now I am far too lazy to continue looking for the book and will sit here stewing.

Gone Thriftin'

2006-09-03T14:58:00.000-07:00

Thrifting (thrift-eng)
- verb; variation, see thrift
1. To uncover economical yet hopelessly tired vintage something or other. Previously used apparel is what you want to see whilst thrifting. Optimistically, it will have been used anywhere between thirty - forty years ago.
Tonight, I hope to go thrifting in one of the only thrift stores in my sad little town. I’ll confess to you, readers, during a particularly embarrassing phase of wearing children’s things, I spent a good deal of time there, picking out Elmo backpacks and Rainbow Brite tees that barely fit. But now, after two years of re-evaluation, I consider it safe to return to said thrift store. I have much discretion in mind and the kind of taste that takes many years to develop. I fancy myself to have a sharp eye and diviner sense of self.
What am I aspiring towards on this auspicious (cross my fingers) night? Well, the kinds of things one always looks for when shopping anywhere, not just thrift stores. A spacey blouse, a holy pair of Mary Janes, adorable shifts, floral follies, etc.
I’m not going in to look for anything really (DRESS!), so I won’t get my hopes up (HEAD SCARF! COSTUME JEWELRY!), of course.
I will not be able to post a report tonight unfortunately due to the fact that I will not be returning home. I am shooting for tomorrow evening, as I will be off in the United States shopping during the daytime. Am I excited? You bet. I will also be withdrawing a large sum of money from my bank account tomorrow morning (as well as depositing an even larger pay check).
Then, in two day’s time, I will be returning to school. A fateful Tuesday which a.) I am terrified of and b.) I have no idea what to wear on.
Wish me good luck tonight, tomorrow, and the next!

Paul & Joke

2006-09-03T09:47:00.000-07:00

Honestly, Paul & Joe have been far under my radar for years. And until their collaboration with American superstore, Target, I couldn’t have cared less about them.
But suddenly they are being dubbed this hidden mystery of the French revolution and I ask myself, since when? The once strictly menswear collection has now shoved aside its proverbial roots and welcomed the hush-hush bang-bang of Trendy Today. And hey, who am I to say that that is wrong? What designer doesn’t want to make loads of cash and still basically convey his or her original thoughts. Basically, being the key word.
Anyways, I think back to my days as Fashion Scum and have to laugh. Way back when, I owned this little blue lunch bag purse (remember when those were hot?) by a label I hadn’t heard a cent about. The label was Paul & Joe.
My memories of the thing are quite vivid actually. My fashion-numb-skulled friends asked me why I was toting around a purse that resembled a primary school lunch bag. Who’s Paul and Joe, they would ask.
*Note: This is the point in an article in which I would laugh about these girls only being acquainted with the star-studded headers of Chanel (the converging C‘s), Gucci (the grotesque G), and possibly Versace (pronounced the way it looks, without the accent, as demonstrated in the movie Showgirls). But since I myself knew next to nothing of Paul & Joe, I couldn’t and can’t really poke fun. At the time I felt rather Woes Me towards my sense of brand identification. Who was Paul & Joe and what was I doing carrying them!?
But now, if I really wanted to, I could rip the back-to-back ads of Bosa Nova jackets and paella blouses from any teen magazine and compare it to my once-laughable purse. But I won’t. Because, like I’ve always said, you don’t have to know anything about fashion to love it.
But now that the company has gone completely couture, I am really becoming a fast-growing fan of the stuff. I have never played Peter Pointer to Parisian trends before but I can definitely get used to this.
Paul & Joe for Target

Paul & Joe Clothing

Balenciaga Comes To Barneys

2006-09-01T18:14:00.000-07:00

We all know Balenciaga. We've seen those damn rider hats everywhere this season. Good news is, you’ll now be able to see them up close and personal. Well, whether or not you consider that good news or bad, it hardly matters. Balenciaga will be coming to the notorious Barneys department store in NYC.
The unveiling will occur sometime early next year. And although I couldn’t afford anything from the new Americana line even if I sold my kidney to science, I would still love to have the chance to look at the merchandise without having to hand over my credit card at the door - or fly to Paris.
The inauguration will no doubt feature a slurry of model-of-the-moments (yawn), but also Lou Doillon and Joanna Preiss. A refreshing change from the usual bore of routine runway.
Of course since I am so wrapped up with NYFW lately, I have to add that this marriage will featured at the show with said models, of course.

Lula and KR To Be Wed in NYC

2006-09-01T17:53:00.000-07:00

Katy Rodriguez, known for her vintage exhibitions of 60’s silly chic, will be sharing the spotlight with the British magazine, Lula. Now, Lula caught my eye a few months ago as what looked like a sharp read. And aside from article similarity and amateur grammatical errors, it gave me some great insight and time-consuming fun. So when I heard that Ms. Rodriguez would be teaming up with Lula just in time for New York Fashion Week (which, I assure you, I only keep harping on because of my deep devotion to it), I fell over my chair in a flurry of radiated bliss.
The line will definitely reiterate Resurrection, Katy’s current label. And although I hate to see repetition in the fashion world, I have a feeling that the clothing will have a life of their own.
Katy’s inspiration seems to be locked in a stranglehold of vintage clutter and moroseness advertising. And whose isn’t?! I love vintage, I love collaborations, thus, I’ll love Lula Meets Rodriguez this Spring.
Expect to see plenty of flirty cocktail dresses and mod jumpers.

Meet Milla

2006-08-31T18:22:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I don’t exactly know if her friends call her Milla. But it helped the title flow and I think Milla is a rather suitable name for such a stellar designer. Camilla Staerk is a hot commodity right now, seducing the likes of fashion reporters everywhere with her swatch-switching abilities and potential-loaded line-ups. She’s new - but not that new. She’s won the New Generation Award once before and was also a warm feature of London Fashion Week.
In Spring 2007 you, fashionable reader, will see her gorgeous clothing on equally gorgeous models walking the platforms of New York Fashion Week.
Not only am I excited to see her Spring line, I am excited to have everyone else see it. She is such a hidden gem just begging to be discovered. I have no doubt in my mind that Ms. Staerk, a Danish-born beauty, by the way, will soon be found on the trendiest celebrities. And as we all know, those pesky camera whores will incite trends for the masses to gobble up like greasy fries.
I personally am a fan of her eloquent ability to mix the bold, moody patterns of harsh Factory Goth life with the femininity of a princess ghost.
The A&W ‘06 line is an eerie thing. Models with both hard and soft faces walk with a slight slouch as the light further pales their milky skin. They all remind me of characters found in Victorian campfire stories I heard as a child. The kinds of rich dead people found in movies meant to scare the unconscious.
The cuts of the dresses and blouses on the female models seem very, very wrong. Some are too tight and others awkwardly balanced. But that feel is what makes Camilla Staerk so brilliant. She is such a DJ. Her mixing and odd-pairing make her line so freshly relevant.
I’ve always found colour inserts to be devilishly clever, and Camilla simply magnifies that point. She possesses the creative integrity it takes to match a fire truck red with the unnerving hues of dead eyes.
Camilla Staerk is a cool, spunky designer riding the clouds of her own impish mind. I not only salute the girl, but I thank her. She will become a household name and bring a new sense of awareness to the fashion world.

Chilly Toes

2006-08-31T07:45:00.000-07:00

I love peek-toe pumps. I think they are just adorable to show off that sweet little $275 pedicure done on your pigly-wiglies. But I hate that a.) I live in the cold region of the world known as CAH-NA-DUH and b.) Peek-toe shoes are fast becoming an A&W ‘06 staple. I’ve been gorged with flats, pumps, wedges, and sandals as of late all featuring this classy detail.
I object to this trend not only because pedicures are impossibly annoying to keep up with in the wintertime but also because my feet get cold easily. And whether that is just me or the collective, I do not know. All I know is peek-toes should be for summer and maybe spring. MAYBE. But how can I be-bop all around town, trudging through snow the entire way, with my toes sticking out an inch? But then again, it can be argued that you should not trudge through snow in any classy shoe. But snow boots? Please, that’s as grotesque as an Ugg. So until this problem is resolved, I’m boycotting winter. I’ll stay cozied up inside in a really ugly caftan with embroidery (yes, embroidery) that resembles this:

Yes, that. So that whenever someone comes to see me wearing their factory clearance booties, they will run away screaming to Father Winter or whoever the hell runs season here in CAH-NA-DUH. Mr. FW will have to comply to my demands of either no more snow, or fake snow from CAH-NA-DUH-AN Tire.

CAUTION: That is not me in the picture above!

The Jimmy Choo-Choo Train

2006-08-31T07:22:00.000-07:00

The Jimmy Choo shoe empire is adding yet another railcar on their insanely swift money train. Easily available handbags, people. BLOODY HANDBAGS. This new revelation makes me want to just bounce up to heaven in a pair of those incredibly springy yet remorsefully tacky Nikes and smooch God right on the lips. In case you live in the fictitious North Pole or on a planet where all they wear are nylon variations of Kiddie Kobbler warm-up suits, Jimmy Choo is a fashionista’s BFF. There’s this fairy tale story that follows the label. Something-something about a certain someone stumbling upon Jimmy Chow (yes, Chow) and His Handmade Creations. Tamara Mellon, I believe her name was. Well, Ms. Mellon is no dummy. She changed the poor sucker’s name and made a mint doing it. She’s marketed the shoes for years to the likes of the lesser known Nicky Hilton, the well-known Princess Diana, and the unknown me.
Now, with brand new handbags made and ready to sell, Jimmy Choo has decidedly introduced their absolute-2006 totes to Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus. A smart investment, if you ask me (or any other sane person who knows a lick about the dollar bill).
Pick up a large Ramona leather tote for $1, 850 online or in-store at Neiman Marcus. Or, if money's a little tight this month, indulge yourself for free, right here at IBT.

A Hair-Raising Issue

2006-08-31T06:04:00.000-07:00

It looks like the fight against fur is going to emerge once again with all fists a-swinging. I can only imagine what new disquieting platform Ingrid Newkirk will come up with this season to battle the likes of Miuccia Prada of Miu Miu and Rosella Jardini of Moschino, whose A&W ’06 lines are both riddled with the presence of animal products.
To clarify, I am in fact a vegan who strives to simply make the best (not easiest) decisions when it comes to the use of animals. I abstain from all meat (that includes fish) and dairy products. That means milk and milk items, modified milk ingredients found in your loneliest granola bar or Cup-A-Soup, butter, eggs, etc. I boycott companies such as Kentucky Fried Chicken due to their notoriously disgusting behaviour towards animals.
I do, however, have to make compromises in the name of fashion. It is not that I value looking good above the welfare of innocent animals, I merely cannot afford the products of vegan-friendly labels such as Alternative Outfitters and Ecolution.
So I wear the occasional leather in a shoe or purse, although I make the effort to avoid doing so. But the fact that I cannot sport canvas footwear my whole life must be addressed. Purses not containing leather are quite the rare find, as well. I pride myself on my eating choices and do my best when it comes to clothing. I find that plainly being conscious is as good a defence as any. And unless you are a vegan, please don’t bother arguing with my lifestyle because you will ultimately lose. I make the enormous effort and live veganism by my own terms.
But back to the fur-laden line-ups of moguls like the previously mentioned Miu Miu and Moschino, as well as Armani and Anne Klein. Even if I weren’t a vegan, I still couldn’t manage a coat quite as lustrous as the ones featured below this article. In this day and age, I can’t imagine someone still going out and getting one of these fatal creations. It might as well be known as fashion suicide. The fact is, things will happen while wearing this coat and for the most part, they will all be very, very bad. Because face it, fashionista: if you are wearing 8 lbs. of the finest mink our world has to offer, you yourself are very, very bad.

Remember Vanity Fair?

2006-08-27T13:39:00.000-07:00

So maybe this makes me a total reject but I just saw Vanity Fair for the first time last night. I just never took the time to see it before this. And what I don’t understand is not the movie itself but the reviews that follow it. I didn’t find VF to be particularly horrible nor did I find it an unimaginable feat. I found Vanity Fair to be just that, fair. It hit exactly at a 5 on my scale. Reese Witherspoon, for the gajillionth time in her career, acted understandably and realistically. And that’s what I like to see. So for folks that dubbed this film without spark and energy I ask, what did you expect? Sure, I love melodramas as much as the next gal. But I like real emotions executed proportionally to the situation just as much. Why are independent films so popular all of a sudden? Because audiences everywhere have discovered realism in the cinema and it astounds them. I was not astounded by Vanity Fair but I was not disappointed. I knew it wouldn’t be amazing but I was relieved to learn it wasn’t despicable. I suggest critics critique themselves before they do another movie.
Fashion Eye: The costumes were breathtaking, even if the film was not. It makes me double excited to see Marie Antoinette starring Kirsten Dunst.

Ready-To-Not-Care

2006-08-27T12:45:00.000-07:00

I was recently digging through photos from the newest Bill Blass Ready-To-Wear runway "extravaganza”. I didn’t find myself surprised, disgusted, or even obliged to cry. I actually felt sorry for a man whose name has been put to shame by the reserved and pusillanimous Vollbracht. Let me jump back a few steps. I never had a daring idea of the Bill Blass label in my head. I mean, if Laura Bush wears the stuff, it’s got to be your granny’s thick cotton shawls in a nutshell, right? But you’d never expect the label which has been quoted to honour their own generic brand of happiness, plugged away through the quiet applauding of a conservative and financially superior audience, to click in to mainstream. In a way, their loyalty to being upright is almost admirable. And so Vollbracht should have stuck to his guns, which haven’t served him badly in the past, mind you. But this season’s line is an annoying look into every single teen magazine on the racks. A salute to The Great Big Book of Safe Trends To Follow. Here’s the virtual tour of Blahville, AKA the over-pretentious way to approach this season’s biggest stereotypes.

The first evidence I present to you is the Jill Stuart-Wannabe look. A period piece channelling the Easy Goth. I can be moody and 18th Century too. Let me just go ahead and grab my leather Doc Martens and that velour cape from last Halloween. The look isn’t necessarily hideous. This post has nothing to do with the style credibility of Michael Vollbracht or any portion of his fall line-up. It has to do with the lacklustre pieces I see before me. If this were fashion, anyone could have a label.

Ooo, the oversized shift in optional subdued colouring. C’est Magique! I find myself yawning as I look at this dress, which has marvellously reproduced itself numerous times in naturally similar identities so far this season. The only difference is the printed tag found at the neckline reading: HERE LIES THE POOR SOUL TOO TERRIFIED TO WEAR ANYTHING OTHER THAN BILL BLASS.

Another fashion breakthrough on the designer’s part with this boring frock found in the book of Fall 2006 Cut-Outs. Shall we glance through the checklist? Layering with optional use of punchy, bold cardigan? Check. Fitted frock with optional t-shirt sleeves? Check. DIY empire waist with optional use of an opaque belt? Check. Plaid, checkered, or houndstooth print? Check. The one place where Bill Blass did stray away from the pack was the fabric swatch department. I haven’t seen any picnic cloth plastic on the runway yet this season, have you?

And last but not least we have the paisley-speckled sundress with optional long-sleeves found on page seven, the English Country Meets Downtown Bohemian section. Let me just say, the elaborate bow does give it a darling twist. And let me also say I think this dress is totally cute. Unfortunately, I look to the crazy world of fashion runways to give me a little more than cute.

And although big-name models were on hand, they didn’t manage to save the show in any shower of brilliant notoriety. Instead, Bill Blass’ Fall 2006 line tumbles right into the dreadful drain of disappointments along with movies like Glitter and Miami Vice.

Disclaimer: I realize that by posting this article, I am now categorized as ‘… that bitchy girl who bleeds tulle.’ But any reviews of that sort will be waved away. I can just as easily categorize a reader as ‘… that silly girl who cannot understand plain English.’ I have already stated several times that this is not a personal jab at any of the clothes featured on this runway or elsewhere. I actually find most of the pieces in Bill Blass’ Fall collection dauntingly foxy. I am simply overwhelmed by the mass amounts of all this foxiness found too at many of my favourite labels. The only difference between Bill Blass and, say, Chloé is that Chloé has its own personal touch and has yet to lose that personal touch. Bill Blass also once had a personal touch, which they have readily decided to throw out the window in pursuit of a more pop appeal. I fancy my designers to have depth, personality, and a backbone. But hey, it may be just me.

And for the record, I like most of the Fall trends this year. Does that fact make this article inane? I would hope not.

Meet 'n Greet

2006-08-27T09:43:00.000-07:00

So I finally went ahead and did it. I took the plunge into the somewhat icy and probably overly harsh waters of fashion blogging. And after I get over the initial shock of using imaginary slang albeit pop cultured, I’ll be just fine in this new habitat. Of course, I’ve come to recognize several things during my transition from sensational nobody to full-course blog banger. I’ve taken the liberty of amassing a short list of the musts and must nots of jezebel journalism.

You’ve got to be bitchy, opinionated, and above all decisive! Form a complete rating about something before you mouth off about it. Fashion has a way of coming back and biting you in the overstuffed hiney.
Don’t start a fashion blog if you’re still ‘discovering’ your own personal style. Submitting contradictory statements about your latest portage through distressed denim or the racer-back tank top will only end in flustered catastrophe when you come to the realization that you have been subjecting blog-spyers everywhere to your own inner struggle with the ugly bug.
Take opportunities to learn things you don’t already know. And although memorizing the names and histories of fashion’s biggest heads is not required to have a desirable fashion blog, it doesn’t hurt.
Respect all other developed opinions out there - no matter how uncompromisingly taut they appear to be. Accept the fact that everyone will have different tastes and perspectives and little ol’ you cannot change that.