Destigners to Watch and Take Cues From Part Four

Designers to Watch and Take Cues From

Partie quatre: Reem Acra

I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to be showing you a designer who has the same ethnic and cultural background as myself. Introducing the fabulous and acclaimed Reem Acra.

Acra started out in Lebanon, and during studies at the American University of Beirut, was discovered. With the Middle East becoming a fashion hot spot due to oil industry money, many designers have been emerging from the region (Elie Saab, anyone?) and many famous designers are looking to extend their markets to Dubai and Beirut, which is affectionately called the Paris of the Middle East. She epitomizes the European and Lebanese forms of style woth her ornate gowns, skirts, jackets, and accessories. The bigger and more ornate the better!

Golds and rich purples are hues that you're sure to find in her RTW collections. Also, if your in the market for an absolutely breathtaking bridal gown, take a lok at her haute couture collection. She is world famous for her embroidery skills, which have truly paid off and made her career the success it has become.

Oh, and did I mention that the Middle East's fashion market is often times years ahead of ours? If nothing else sells you on Acra, this should.

P.S. Did you notice that some of her increadible designs made their way down the red carpet at the Golden Globes?

"Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street, fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening." -Coco Chanel

Friday Feature: Viva Glam !

Image from maccosmetics.com

You have to love MAC. Lets just face it. They make some of the best makeup that the fashion world has ever seen ever. The best part is their variety of colors and shades that suit any and every kind of skin tone that could ever exist.


But back to my actual feature: Mac's newest color in their Viva Glam line is perfect for the modern girl who wants to enhance her assets but is not ready to go with a bold red lip color.


Or maybe red just doesn't look good on you, which is my sad, sad case.


Viva Glam VI (or number six...) is my new favorite shade of lipstick. It's such a pretty plum that is not too dark. This is perfect for girls like me who can't even go near red without looking pale as the moon. I can't wait to get my hands on it!


And for those who are lipstick skeptics, and I know there are quite a few, don't be afraid to try lipstick. You'd be surprised at how much adding a simple spot of color that brightens up your face can make a difference.


It is almost as essential as having a good concealer, blush, or bronzer.


Any other lipstick/makeup trends you are all over? Favorite colors? Drop a comment ! I'd love to see what you all are wearing !


--Jill

Fashion Week: Installment 1

Images from www.mercedes-benzfashionweek.com.

Ahhh the fashion weeks are upon us. I'd like to shed some light on the week that some people completely ignore: Berlin Fashion Week.

The first designer that I'd like to put the spotlight on is (drumroll please!): Joop!

This German based designer has an awesomely sexy and has great appeal to all kinds of people. Do I think it's going to have some kind of influence on fashion in the states? Yes !

I mean, who can resist a bedazzled dress (I know I can't. Note my prom dress last year.)?

The look I especially love that is everywhere this year is the one shouldered brightly colored minidress. Totally appropriate for spring, summer, winter, or fall. Yes, yes I know this is for AW 10, but take the tights off add some sandals and you have a fun sundress!

The splotchy color on this one as well as the a-symmetrical neckline are especially appealing to me. I also especially like the clever fabric gathering around the middle, which makes this dress all around more wearable. And who doesn't like that?

All around, I'm in love with this whole line. I'm really looking forward to the other shows that are coming up.

I'm always looking to fall in love again.

--Jill

Street Style

This Could Be You!

Ever since I started this blog I've wanted to cover street style. The issue is this: I don't live in a huge city where I could creep on some people's outfits without getting noticed and I don't think people would really appreciate a seventeen year old wanna be fashion writer to go around begging to take pictures of their breathtaking outfits. But, in a city like Paris, this would be perfectly ok, not to mention that Parisian women have some of the best style in the world. Here, Tommy Ton shoots some street style in Paris for Vogue's style.com.

The photos above are courtesy of fashionfreax.net. I personally think that they are adorable choices that are totally wearable (unlike some of the furs donned on the streets of Paris, don't you think?). I could see myself or people I know wearing outfits like these.

So, where am I getting at with this? I  want to continue covering street style because it's a great way to learn what works on people, real people, who are not models or divas or unbelievably wealthy fashionistas who look as if they have just stepped out of a Paris or Milan or New York design studio, or off of the runway, for that matter. They're just like me and just like you, emphasis on just like you. I would be completely thrilled to see how many of you can find or even take a few pictures of your street style or the style of someone whose taste you admire. Send them here, or simply take inspiration from what you find. In noticing what others put together and how they do it, you gain a greater knowledge of what fashion really is and how it connects to your life and rounds out your style.

As Jill mentioned in her most recent post, she's going to take some pictures of her outfits to post here as inspiration. If I liked pictures of myself more, I'd post them here too, but quite honestly, I don't really take pictures of myself often because, like I said, I'm not entirely crazy about how I photograph. Nevertheless, I encourage you to send in something--a great outfit, bag, pair of shoes or tights, accessories, anything that describes your daily street style and your photo may be the topic of our discussion here on Frock It Out. So why not give it a try? Our intro photo could be you!

xoxo Elise

"It is the unseen, unforgettable, ultimate accessory of fashion that heralds your arrival and prolongs your departure." -only one of the world's most amazing women, Coco Chanel

I Think Ur A Contra

Image from google images.

Dance at Bougival - Auguste Renoir

Current inspiration: Renoir's Women ++ Vampire Weekend

Porcelain figures caught in a specific moment in time. Simply gorgeous. Besides, fashion in 1880s france was fabulous. Big dresses, hair, and hats. I am a fan. 

Looking  towards the future, I am obsessed with Vampire Weekend's newest album: Contra. The combo of looking at french impressionist paintings and listening to intensely modern music has been sheer inspiration. It's given me a little more direction andddd (here's the big one) pushed me to do my first ever outfit post!

It should be coming soon. I just need to find a spot to take some decent photos. 

Motion City Soundtrack this weekend ! So excited.  Any suggestions for concert outerwear?

--Jill

Nobody but you

Image from google images.

The Wondergirls, AKA Asia's new pop sensation, also have an impeccable sense of style.

I want to dress like this every day of my life. Please please tell me this awesome 60's Motown look is here to stay for at least a little while.

I'd be happy with just the hair staying.

Honestly.

I'm obsessed.

--Jill

P.S. Download the single Nobody by the Wondergirls. Seriously good taste and voices.

P.P.S. Follow us on Bloglovin!

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Take It From a Deacon and Elise Makes an Announcement....

Here you see the fabulous cut out dress and some of the other quirks Deacon plays into his work for SS 2010. How much do you love the number to the far right?

Yes, take it from a deacon. Giles Deacon to be exact. Surely you were afraid that this was about to turn into church fashion 101. Relax, it's just one of the best designers showcased at Paris fashion week for the spring summer collections.

In case you're wondering (as, in fact, I've never clearly or explicitly made this point), fashion week for SS lines is in September and fashion week for FW lines is in February. The New York version, in which Kim Kardashian will be showcasing her line for Bebe (why at fashion week? It doesn't belong there! Go do it at a store opening!) begins in 20 days! February 11th is kick off so keep it here for all of the exciting events and my practice on every big name designer's front row.

Sorry for the tangent! Anyway, his line is eccentric. He uses many statement pieces including an interesting plastic-y skirting and bold, bold cutouts. Despite the crazy, though, his line is the epitome of European chic. What's most interesting about Deacon, though, is his choice of models. Models aren't your typical "pretty" as their job is to simply showcase the looks while being increadibly and heartbreakingly fabulous...and thin. And though Deacon's models fit this stereotype, the looked older. This boggled my mind as most models have careers that end circa age 25. I loved that about him though. It showed me that he can make clothes for a girl my age and for a woman much older than myself and they can work on both of us. It's up to the buyer, of course, to make it age appropriate.

Deacon also has quite an impressive resume. He has worked for Tom Ford, Bottega Veneta, Louis Vuitton, Ralph Lauren, Jean-Charles de Castelbajac, and Gucci.

I'm sincerely looking forward to his fashion week creations. Oh how I wish I could be there, in Paris, opening the lavish and oh-so talked about gift bags, which have actually become increasingly less lavish as our economy continues to fail us and fails to fuel our incessant need to shop. I also wish I could be at Mercedes-Benz Fashion week in Bryant Park, but I guess i'll just have to get my fashion fix from video coverage on style.com. Regardless, it sounds like a week of glamour and fun and exactly the environment I would like to be immersed in every minute of everyday of my entire life.

That being said, I have decided to apply for a few magazine internships for this upcoming summer in NYC. Hopefully, i'll at the very least get an interview for one, which would make my entire life. I don't just love fashion, I love culture and writing, and a good challenge. Wish me luck on this endeavor!

More photos from Mr. Deacon

A chic knit frock will prove to be a girl's best friend this summer! I love its beachy-ness!

An example of a concept that could work both on a younger or older woman.

Photos courtesy of google images. Oh, how I love google!

Friday Feature, Plus.......

Ah, the joy of Friday. As if Fridays weren't sweet enough, I am managing to make it even better. Introducing our newest series, Friday Feature. Each friday either Jill or I will bring you the best find or finds of our week whether it is a bag, shoes, a dress, anything is fair game! So enjoy and TGIF!

Friday Feature: Worthy Causes

So, today was definitely not one of the best days of my life. Actually, the past week has been somewhat of my own personal horror story. But, my issues pale in comparison to the situations of many living in impoverished and underdeveloped countries. Particularly, I feel for the people of Haiti who have suffered such great tragedy in the recent natural disasters. So for our very first Friday Feature, I would like to speak about worthy causes.

So many nations are suffering economically, politically, and in relation to natural disasters. Any way that you can help--donating items to red cross, collecting money, or hosting a charity event--provides hope to those people.

That being said, I'm going to place a (shameless) plug for our school's charity event, Dance for Darfur. As many of you know, African countries have had many political wars started over the years. Darfur, a region in Sudan, is no different, and the genocide is current. My school is looking to support victims of this tragedy by hosting a dance competition. All money raised will be going to the Michigan Darfur Coalition and Save Darfur. If you would like any information or more details on the event, shoot me an email or comment below. Any support will help the victims greatly and this event is a win-win situation. Not only does money go to charities to aid Darfur, but you get to enjoy a great show and help a worthy cause.

I hope this got you thinking and I hope you too find the inspiration to help!

Designers to Watch and Take Cues from

Partie trois: Jordi Labanda

Quirky and super cute are the first words that came to mind when I saw some of  Urguay born Jordi Labanda's work. I love him for his crazy umbrellas with a chic yet interestingly whimsical look and vibrant colors. He's also had books of images and fashion text published which is a fantastic feat for a designer--they're always so busy! And, not only does he write books, illustrate, and design apparel and accessories, but, he has his own candle and stationary line as well.

His line appeals to a younger generation of fashionistas but nonetheless, it has a certain je ne sais quoi, a certian youthful charm, I guess.

Here are a few photos from his various lines...

Mr. Labanda himself, one of Jordi's original umbrellas, a specially designed motorola phone, an original Jordi Labanda wallet.

Get Gorgeous

Image from tfs


-Jill

Bleeding True Blue:Denim Plus....

Bleeding True Blue:Denim

From Harper's Bazaar's January 2010 Issue, Ralph Lauren SS 2010

I like denim. I love a great pair of jeans that fits well with a wash and cut that are beyond timeless (is that possible?!). I also like Ralph Lauren clothing....well, its more like love. So why in the world do I hate this picture? Denim overkill, ladies. I cannot emphasize enough how much I can't take overkill and how it ruins an outfit. I just cannot imagine myself or many other people I know trotting around in a denim blouse, a denim jacket, jeans, a denim hat, and the newly popular denim handbag. IT'S JUST TOO MUCH! And, it hurts my eyes. Just the other day I saw a woman wearing a look similar to this and I quite literally almost had a heart attack.

Regardless, I am not a fan of anything denim other than jeans or the occasional, well fitting, denim skirt. I know people have difering opinions and I'm not knocking other pieces at all, it's just not my personal taste. I think the best looks (and you will hear this from me time and time again), come from mixing and matching. I also think it comes from your knowledge of what works on your body type; and honestly, the head to toe denim isn't entirely figure-flattering on everyone.

Think I'm right? Think I'm completely crazy? Let me know via e-mail or the below comment box.

Things that Make Me Happy

There are bunches and bunches of things that make me happy:

reading, slurpees, shopping, fashion, the fashion industry, fashion week (and speaking of fashion week we're about three weeks away!), slurpees, fall, spring, accessories, handbags, shoes, Marc Jacobs, slurpees, days off, promotions, new stores, well dressed people, friends, family, slurpees......

The list could go on forever. One thing, in particular is a very fabulous slideshow by vogue which captures all of the upcoming and lovely things for spring in a mere 74 photos. Take a look:

The Vogue Spring Accessories Guide 2010

Also, for those of you who swear by UGG boots, take a look at these alternatives...

10 Equally Functional But More Attractive Alternatives to UGGs

Some are better than others as you will see but it's always worthwhile to look into other options.

Juicy Obsession: Justified?

Image from google images

Every girl loves a little something new. But there seems to be a new craze going on within the high school scene.

Juicy Couture is taking over.

Juicy socks, necklaces, bracelets, charms, earrings, shirts, pants, sweatsuits, purses, key chains...

I could honestly go on for days.

Is this little obsession that people have with this ultra girly brand justified? Or is it just a fad?

Here are the facts:

1. Dressing in head to toe Juicy Couture is hugely obvious, obnoxious, and most of all annoying. Mix and match ! Give it an edge ! The color pink will thank you later.

2. Juicy's accessories are flawless. The oversized charms, understated necklaces, and great purses all speak for themselves. The sunglasses also make my heart happy, so I'd check those out too if you're looking for a good piece. The charms can give any outfit a girly touch and the purses are big enough to hold all of your stuff (If you read my last post, you'd know how much that means to a person like myself...). The best part is, they last a while, and even longer if you take care of them.

3. Please don't wear a sweatsuit. Not even to the gym. I don't care how much you paid for it. They really are not cute.

4. Though the fragrances are a bit strong, all of them have their separate appeals. What girl doesn't like to smell good?

So, I'd say the obsession is semi-justified. Every girl likes the bows and whistles once in a while. And, Juicy Couture is a brand with a reasonable price (next to some other big labels, like say, Chanel or Dior). Though not necessarily the classiest, the brand is slowly integrating itself into young culture.

I'd say I'm okay with that.

Unless the sweatsuit comes back again. Then my opinion might change.

-Jill

The Bag is Back

I have to admit it. I am a bag monger. I love them. I collect them. I overall have a sickening number of them, some of which I paid wayyy to much for.

But I find the bag/purse to be an essential for any outfit. It can either bring everything together, add a pop of color, or throw your whole look off, all while holding your essentials.

I am a huge advocate of the brightly colored bag. My favorite being a bright purple. I think it's especially appropriate due to the winter season. It can also be carried into fall and spring and even summer if you get it loud enough. Along with red, purple is the perfect way to add a spicy splash of color to your little black dress or just to be sassy with jeans and a tee.

Another thing I look for in a bag is the size. Everyone loves a good clutch for a special occasion, but when it comes to day to day wear, I look for the biggest bag possible. Mostly because I have a lot of stuff I like to keep with me at all times. Not only does it come in handy, it's big enough to draw attention to you too.

Metal hardware on a purse, as well as metallic colors are also huge purse "yes!"s for this year. Kathy Von Zealand is a master of this. Not too much and not too little. My current purse (the metallic turquoise pebble leather one pictured above) is a perfect example of this happy medium. The best part is, hardware goes with everything. Get one in a bright color to go with your blacks and one in a neutral color to go with your browns.

Patent leather also does the purse good. It's shiny and has that liquid "look at me" quality that will draw some attention to you.

Don't be afraid to spend a little bit more on a bag if you really love it. Bags and purses tend to last a long time, especially if they are real leather like most of the expensive ones are. If you take care of it, you could have a friend for life!

However, these are only suggestions. Don't put a good lookin' purse down because it doesn't have any of these traits! Everyone still needs at least one fabulous black or brown one.

-Jill

Look Out !

Img from Nylonmag.com

Though I have taken a minor absence from the fashion blogging world, I am now back with a vengeance.

I will be doing my best to post more regularly on the blog. I know I've been kind of shirking my duties due to some stress-related (AKA school and college) stuff.

I have a fabulous post lined up for you guys tomorrow !

Stay tuned and I promise I'll be around more!

P.S. For all you punk hipsters out there, check out Noki, a London based brand of clothing. It's bright and messy, reviving the old London punk rock scene with somewhat of an 80s retro flare.

The first look from Nylon, the alternative girl's fashion bible, is here!

Designers to Watch and Take Cues From Part 2

Partie Deux: Behnaz Sarafpour

A few years ago, she bought her way into my heart and the hearts of countless others with her affordable and adorable line for Target. Today, she remains one of my favorites, and honestly, should not be labeled as up-and-coming. It’s upsetting to me that not many people know who she is, but Behnaz is worth studying. Her looks scream chic and classic without being dull or overdone. Notice that she, much unlike Basso and Brooke, has much more streamlined, simple, and wearer friendly pieces. Her collection screams Blair Waldorf.

Even her choice in models shows the level of everyday elegance her designs are capable of. Her Spring Summer 2010 line is definitely among the best for the upcoming season. Yes, I am being quite subjective, as she has a way of encompassing every facet of my personal style in a dress.

Notice the feminine details in her clothing. The lace overlay is a popular concept this season, as was alluded to in Preppy and Patterns and Prints. Also, take note of her stitching detail in the little yellow and white number. Two simple stitches were placed at integral points of the ribbon in black, a complementary color to the piece. This provides a seemingly effortless but incredibly difficult and well thought out concept. Oh, and there’s lace here too! Sarafpour has also created flowy and flouncy silhouettes that emphasize the positives of a woman’s body, as demonstrated by some of the tops and even pants in her collection.

Bravo, Behnaz. I hope every line is as impressive--and as stunningly me--as this one!

xoxo Elise

Fashion's NEW Ten Commandments

We've all heard em...don't wear white after Labor day, no navy and black, and the like. Get ready to see the changes fashion has brought you and try to keep away from fashion sins!




1.Thou can wear white after Labor day. Im being 100% serious. I grew up hearing that it was a fashion sin, but you can go ahead and do it. But be careful, white doesn't work well on most people as far as pants and skirts, but a dress is fine as long as it's paired with something muted such as a sweater or jacket.


2.Sticking with the white...WHITE SHOES ARE HUGE NO-NO and THOU SHALL NOT WEAR THEM! I cannot emphazie it enough. It might be okay if your getting married, but I siggest a metallic such as silver or pewter--whatever matches the rock on your hand. At graduation, wear beige shoes or cute sandals with your white dress.


3.Thou can wear navy and black together in moderation. If they're combined in a pattern on a top or dress, it's perfectly ok. Don't push it by doing a navy top and black bottoms or the whole tights and shoes deal. That will never work.


4.I love this one: "Sweetie, I know you want to look trendy, but piling all of the season's trends on your little body isn't working for you. Sorry." Translation: THOU SHALL NOT OVERKILL.


5.Thou shall not have VPL. This one's a classic. Please be careful with this ladies! It can ruin a gorgeous outfit.


6. Thou shall keep it classy. You don't need super short hemlines or tops cut down to your belly button to be sexy. I promise.


7. Thou shall resist the urge of bed head. Looking like you just rolled out of bed is never attractive. I honestly don't care if you just did. I screams messy, and that never makes a good first impression, or second, or third...


8. Thou shall see black as the new black. It is always in style. Always keep the basics: black tank, black tee, black long-sleeved tee, black cardigan, black pullover, black skirt, black pants, and of course, the little black dress. These will be go-to pieces, and, if you invest in good ones, they'll last you a while.


9.Thou shall not match your top and shoes. It's a bit tacky. Go for neutrals or for the color of the skirt/pants you're wearing. Stuck with shoe ideas for a dress? You can use whatever colors recurr in the pattern, assuming there is one. This goes for purses as well. A fantastic, well-structured bag in a great complementary color will add flair to any outfit.

10. Thou shall not go head-to-toe in one brand/color/pattern. Things should go, not necessarily match. I trust you to use your own judgement on this, though. We've alll seen that girl in all pink who looks like a bottle of pepto bismol or a walking advertisement for a particular store/designer.



Want more? Comment on the post with questions you have about fashion rules! We may even feature your question in a future post.

Designers to Watch and Take Cues From Part One

Partie un: Basso and Brooke

From Left: Ah, the tutu, B&B's spring 2006 RTW show; From their fall 2009 RTW show, a great and practical splash of color which I can even see creeping into this year's fall lines; A look at what's to come for spring 2010.

Photos Courtesy of Style.com

     Très chic and very, very eclectic, Bruno Basso and Christopher  Brooke know how to keep clothing crazy, fresh, and young. They throw around colors and prints and weirdness and give it the effortless cool only few have the courage to take on. For example, in their spring 2006 shows, their looks were filled with tulle bringing in the tutu. I’m sure you’re thinking “Yikes!” but honestly, their partly European take brings a sigh of relief to all of those who are sick of the déjà vu many American designers have been, well, spewing out. I know we’re in a recession, but please, keep the creative genius alive! This Brazilian/Brit pair has. They have even received Mrs. Obama’s stamp of approval, which is a sure sign that they’ll not only become a household name a la Alexander Wang, but they're likely to be fashion's newest and brightest sensation, literally! You may have even noticed them in their designs for everyday brands, namely, Converse and L’Oreal cosmetics.

      Not only have they taken on the fashion and beauty worlds, but that of glamour and art as well. Example one: their Swarovski crystal chandelier designed for Milan’s Crystal Palace. Example two: display of a finale piece (also done up in Swarovski crystals) at none other than the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

     And, just as a reminder, we are a mere month away from New York Fashion Week! Stick with us for all of the news concerning the best of the best designers and shows. Jason Wu, 3.1 Philip Lim, Marc Jacobs, and Alexander Wang are sure to impress. Also, be sure to keep an eye out for whatever Basso and Brooke have coming for us next!!!

Love ‘em? Their label is sold at most Neiman Marcus retailers! Our nearest Neiman's: Troy's Somerset Collection.

Making My Way Into the Industry

      As you all know or have learned throughout the course of reading this blog, I have a passion for what people call the world's most superficial and possibly corrupt industry. But fashion means something different to me than it does for others. Some may see it as a hobby or something that makes them cute or attractive. Those are the same individuals who give the field such a bad rep. I see it as a form of (ah! cliche moment) self expression. I see it as a means of displaying bursts of creative energy and making "cool" or "trendy" what would otherwise be quirky or unpopular or simply bizarre. I read into it more than most would or even should, but I just cannot help myself.

     With graduation approaching much too quickly, I have a long list of things I want to do. At the top is my pilgrimage, so to speak, to the city. I want to shop, visit museums, which I love, and envelop myself in the rich cultural and diverse atmosphere. I'm not going hoping that all of my dreams will mystically come true because of the fab but painstaking and uncomfortable heels an editor could notice on the street or something else along those same lines. I'm looking to get an internship and to break into the industry by working hard and fostering my passion for words. For those of you who know me a bit better, my goal in life is to become the world's best dermatologist. I am no longer sure if that's the path I'm meant for. All I know is that I want to go to the city and soak in everything it has to offer and pray that that's where my calling is.

     So what's a girl to do? Enter the intriguing and intensely competitive, but creative and glamourous field of fashion editing or develop the scientific mind I've been blessed with in an equally competitive field? (I love competition. It's where my drive comes from. I'm wherever it is, unless it's sports. I'm challenged in that respect).

    If any of you know a great way to get my foot in the door, I implore you to let me know!!!! And remember, it is all of you, my peers and readers and friends and family that provide me with the inspiration and drive to dabble in fields that I honestly have no idea how I came to, but love so greatly. So I hope you enjoyed my fashion stream of consciousness and can continue to be my inspiration as I try to take on the industry!

 

xoxo, Elise

The Death of the Art Deco Cuff

I love love love cuff bracelets. I don’t wear jewelry often, but when I do, a great cuff has always been my go-to piece. Unfortunately and tragically for those into the artsy, abnormalish, quirky type of jewelry, the cuff is dead.  

But….

As I mentioned in my piece on prints, floral is in and just as capable of capturing the hearts of bracelet loving fashionistas and divas. Pre-spring is full of floral accents in every aspect. Clothing, fragrances (i.e. genius Marc Jacobs’ Lola and Daisy), bags, shoes (yes!), and jewelry of all types are picking up on the flower motif. I myself recently made a purchase of a cuff which looks similar to a leaf fossilized in metal and sprayed gold. I kind of love it. So try one out—they’re adorable and can be found at quite affordable prices at places like Forever 21.

I do predict a comeback for the future. Surely when the seasons pass, the art deco cuff will make a comeback. In the eighties everyone wished the “trends” (I’m still not quite sure that anything back then could have even be considered trendy but, whatever) would disappear and now, thirty-ish years later, it’s back. Another (but slight) tragedy in my book.

xoxo

Elise

Preppy and Patterns and Prints OH MY!

From the Versace Spring 2010 RTW Show in Milan (couture.com)

Although I know winter and the new year have just arrived, I am already awaiting spring. I fully understand that I'm getting ahead of myself, but here’s my reasoning:

1. I cannot stand cold.

2. The term “slushy” should only be used when referring to trips to the local 7/11 and makes driving a nightmare.

3. Fashion!!!!!!!!!!! I’m loving the concepts for Spring 2010 and so will you!

            

         Spring is all about the preppy. Pastels, ruffles, lace, and white are making spring 2010 my season of choice. Feminizing structure is also hot, and as many of you know, I’m a HUGE fan of structure.

         But for those of you who are less type A and OCD than me (and part of me is hoping that all of you are…), there are prints galore to experiment with to your heart’s content.

          As usual, we will be seeing spring’s staple, florals. They’ll be around for a while. Feminine and flirty, they are my print of choice. For a bit of a change, try florals in a more neutral taupe-y palate. That way, it will transition from winter into spring or from spring into fall feasibly. Geometrics are also back. Use them to your advantage as they can create super flattering silhouettes!

        
         My print-du-jour, however, is something I’ve never tried, but have gushed over after seeing them on the runways. Tribal Prints. I find charm in their pre-civilization chic and the array of colors that can go into them. Color is the key, as you can use it to create multicultural looks. Taupes, tans, yellows, and browns are proving to be popular as are aquas, bright, grassy greens, burgundies, rich, deep purples, and cobalt blues. Versace (see photo) does this quite well-implementing a modern and oh-so-chic twist. Fabulous!

Happy New Year again! I hope you’re looking forward to the upcoming year and season as much as I am, and don’t forget to Frock It Out in 2010!

xoxo Elise