A Quite Useless Blog

New Year, New Blog

2009-12-19T14:33:00.000-08:00

Hello and salut!

For the new year, I'll be moving back to Paris, where I initially started this blog. If you follow me at all (does anyone follow me?) you'll know how inspirational that city is to me, so I'm sure that with more free time and a touch more motivation, I'll be updating as often as I did when I started this Quite Useless Blog. On another note, I've also decided that I want to document my study abroad experience in a more personal way as well. So in case you're interested, mosey over to http://vienssaintgermain.blogspot.com/ where I will be blogging about my day to day experiences living in Paris. Knowing me, I will have something to say about design and style there too.

Best wishes for the holidays!
xx

Weight off the Shoulders

2009-10-01T19:54:00.001-07:00

Balmain might be known for its enormous, padded and sometimes bejeweled shoulders, but this time around, I noticed Christophe Decarnin's fabulous dresses. No doubt they'll be coveted by the fashion flock next season— just like everything else his hand graces.

Photos from Style.com

Good Sport

2009-10-01T19:42:00.000-07:00

Now this is sportswear I could get used to. Nicolas Ghesquiere's collection for Balenciaga was so innovative it actually blew my mind— if I had been at the show, I might have actually started shouting as if it were an outdoor event. But seriously, who thinks to make boots out of laser-compressed melted down leather and hand-looming or lattice skirts? Ghesquiere does, I suppose. And I'm ever so glad.

Photos from Style.com

Making a Comeback

2009-10-01T19:24:00.000-07:00

Versus, the defunct Versace line, just debuted its first collection with Christopher Kane at the helm. A taste of Kane's own SS2010 work was there in cut-outs and pleats. Yet here he worked with Versace's more obvious sex appeal, incorporating darker colors, safety pins and even chain mail (a material that Donatella gifted him when he was a student). Talk about coming full circle.

Photos from Style.com

Je Sais Quoi

2009-10-01T19:02:00.000-07:00

I'm so obsessed with the latest Rochas collection by Marco Zanini that I'm resisting the urge the bust out these styles in tomorrow's 50 degree fall weather. Looking this good is surely worth suffering for. It's exactly the type of effortlessness I love in fashion. Typically, it's hard to put your finger on exactly what makes such chic, Parisian nonchalance. Yet I'm specifically digging the teeny socks with platforms, retro high-waisted bottoms, coquettish underpinnings mixed with funky menswear and touchable fabrics in plum and metallic. They're like a perfect, unexpected recipe. And then there's the jumper in smoky charcoal silk. It's the first time I've ever wanted to slip into one, and Zanini's vision makes me believe I could pull it off.

Photos from Style.com

Going Soft

2009-10-01T17:46:00.000-07:00

Gareth Pugh, fashion's prince of darkness and sharp angles, lightened up this season— going so far as to branch out from his signature black to a light gray. I personally enjoyed his change of heart, as it makes his brilliant fabric manipulation easier to appreciate and the pieces a lot less weighty overall. Though admittedly, I do have a bias towards feather headpieces.

Photos from Style.com

Show with a View

2009-10-01T17:38:00.001-07:00

Alberta Ferretti's demure collection stole my breath when I saw it— and held me together over the past few days while I've been smothered with work. I heard someone compare it to the film A Room with a View and I wholeheartedly agree. Everything from the straw hats to the degrade pastels to the belted (standard belts, no less) waists to the sweet little lace-up flats recall an old-fashioned, simpler time with a touch of modern cool.

Photos from Style.com

Too Little Time

2009-09-29T22:41:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the break everyone! I've been overwhelmed with French work as of late- which is appropriate, considering that Paris Fashion Week is starting! Super chouette! Can't wait for the shows and the dish. Until then, here's a screenshot I took of one of my favorite visual films ever to get us in the spirit.

Take It Easy

2009-09-25T17:23:00.000-07:00

Prada, usually known for her intellectual take on fashion, turned out a refreshingly laid-back collection. Still, I can't really see any young beach bums in these clothes— perhaps it's the price-tag worthy fabrics and lady-like coats.

Photos from Style.com

When It Works...

2009-09-25T17:17:00.000-07:00

... it works. I might be biased against "cute," but something about this look from Moschino SS10 makes my inner child squeal.

Photo from Style.com

Peek-a-Boo

2009-09-22T22:52:00.000-07:00

Romanticism is a standout trend for SS10 so far, but I'm most infatuated with Christopher Kane's sharp-edged take. He managed to turn pastels, pleats, floral motifs AND GINGHAM FOR CHRIST'S SAKE into something modern. With cut-outs, thigh-high slits and corseting, the collection wasn't even a touch saccharine. In fact, maybe it's just me, but the frilly details pushed your everyday, run of the mill bondage towards something kinkier.

Photos from WWD.com

Build Me Up

2009-09-20T14:22:00.000-07:00

Just when you thought you were safe from looking like Joan Collins in SS10, Matthew Williamson decided to exponentially increase the size of the shoulders AND the arms of his collection.

Photos from WWD.com

Oscar Gone Wild

2009-09-20T13:46:00.000-07:00

Oscar de la Renta, often viewed as one of the more conservative designers out there, typically fails to impress me with his covered-up sweaters and dated gowns. But for this show, I owe an apology. He turned out looks for a much more youthful collection, complete with asymmetry, shorter hems, bright pops of color and print and even a touch of— dare I say it?— Lady Gaga inspired transparent fabric. Turns out that his lady is a bit of a tramp.

Photos from Style.com

Head of Their Class

2009-09-18T20:17:00.000-07:00

Alexander Wang SS10

Marc Jacobs SS10

Rodarte SS10

Proenza Schouler SS10

It's been a fantastic season so far, and I can't wait to see what London, Milan and Paris come up with— I'm practically counting down the hours until the Alexander McQueen show (which will be live on his website btw, in case you're interested). But in the meantime, I'll be dreaming of and drooling over these collections and pieces in particular.

Alexander Wang, how do I count the ways? In an utterly wearable but funky collection, the dear Mr. Wang managed to make football appealing to some of the most un-athletic individuals on this planet. Never thought I would want a "varsity" sweater, that's for sure. Of course, I also never thought football shorties could cost around $800 and be made of leather. Welcome to fashion! I love the above look especially because of the worn-in but otherwise luxurious fabrics and the thrown together quality of the ensemble— though you know those proportions have to be hard to nail.

Marc Jacobs exists to make this world a better, more theatrical place. This collection excited me because he managed to take inspiration and run with it, but also simultaneously mock it, and take it apart. Note: the men's shirt underneath a ruffled gown and the deconstruction of gorgeous, prim skirt numbers by styling underpinnings on the outside. Sure, it's been done before, but I never really get tired of seeing it.

Rodarte is one of my go-to brands, though this collection didn't thrill me as much as others. Truthfully, ever since the "slasher" one a few seasons back, I haven't experienced the same high. But Laura and Kate still managed to pull out a unique interpretation of their signature draped, body-con dresses. I feel like Rodarte is best when it embodies dark simplicity, like the above frock. This photo scares the hell out of me but I still want to be that girl.

Proenza Schouler became my new love this season. Not that I'm the first- everyone in the fashion industry has adored them for awhile now. But Jack and Lazaro's work seemed more youthful this time around, with vibrant prints and flirty dresses. And I'm so glad I finally caught on to what the noise was about.

Photos from Style.com

Print Perfect

2009-09-18T20:03:00.000-07:00

Narciso Rodriguez SS10

Ports 1961 SS10

Proenza Schouler SS10

The trend I fell for the most (other than braids, naturally, but more on that later) has to be prints. Prints, prints, prints. They were EVERYWHERE. Not just the usual florals, but new interpretations of geometric, animal and God-knows-what. Some highlights were the abstractions of Narciso Rodriguez and the incredibly delicate, barely-there patterns of Ports 1961. Bu the best take might just be Proenza Schouler's undeniably cool mix and match of busy brights. It shouldn't work, but each look proves you wrong.

Photos from Style.com

Jean-ius

2009-09-18T19:44:00.000-07:00

Helmut Lang has long been one of my favorite brands. Yet I always seem to veer towards the more exclusive pieces. For example, a $15,000+ anaconda jacket... hey, it's an investment piece. But now that Michael and Nicole Colovos are launching a jean-based diffusion line, Helmut Lang's edgy simplicity will be accessible to even more clients. I was hoping that it would be even half as good as the Acne/Lanvin collaboration. And as you can see from the recent Helmut Lang presentation, prayers are about to be answered.

Photos from Style.com

True Black

2009-09-18T19:28:00.000-07:00

Michael Kors SS10

Phi SS10

However, plenty of designers eschewed rainbows and sparkles for a harder look reminiscent of Fall09. This is excellent for those of us (me) who have hearts that are three sizes too small. Of course, the dark and brooding look received its seasonal update as well, in the form of sexy cut-outs in new and unexpected places.

Photos from Style.com

All the World Needs Now

2009-09-18T19:12:00.000-07:00

Narciso Rodriguez SS10

3.1 Phillip Lim SS10

Marc Jacobs SS10

If you're already sick of Fall's studded boots and leather, then the 2010 shows have welcome news for you— romanticism and everything sickly sweet is in. My favorite looks from the New York collections dove into this theme with frothy abandon, yet were set apart by a little spunk. Think the flowing grey silk gown Narciso Rodriguez sent down the runway. It's dramatic and soft, yet ever so slightly boyish in its shapelessness and unexpected color. Likewise, Phillip Lim balanced a pale pink shift with a fire engine red trench, and Marc Jacobs' finale of a ruffled gown avoided banality thanks to its see-through fabric. Being good never felt so fun.

Photos from Style.com

Clean Slate

2009-08-24T23:58:00.000-07:00

When it comes to make-up I'm incredibly indecisive, despite my background in fashion. I hop around from brand to brand, product to product, color to color. Yet one item I've been using for years and have always been satisfied with is Lancome's Bi-Facial make-up remover. It works on everything— even waterproof mascara and lip stain— without leaving behind that gross, greasy feeling. I was talking to a Lancome rep the other day who said that some clients claim it's too strong. But take it from someone with the most sensitive skin around... Seriously, when I was little, classmates thought it was fun to "draw" on me, i.e. make welts shaped like letters, flowers, small animals and other kiddie paraphernalia. Yeah, I know. But I digress. If the old Bi-Facial leaves me unharmed, my bet is you too shall remain unscathed. Not to mention free of raccoon eyes for all time.

Image from Lancome

Let Me Count the Ways...

2009-08-22T21:30:00.000-07:00

Cream Check Lace Woven Scarf, Burberry

Crocodile Scarf, YSL

Blue Hera Silk Scarf, Liberty of London

I love the way women wear their scarves. It says so much about a person or their mood- doubled-folded, knotted around the neck, thrown carelessly about the shoulders, tied onto a Birkin, and so on. Liberty, my favorite London department store, has one of the most impressive stocks I've ever seen. And as Liberty has always been praised for their prints- everyone from Cacheral to Topshop has used their archive- it only makes sense that their collection would be the best around. When I visited a couple months ago, I had a chance to see their renovated scarf room. Yes, a scarf room. Hold me now. They carry everyone from little known British designers to Givenchy to twillies made from their famous fabrics. Ah, indecision!

Images from Liberty.co.uk

Shop for Good

2009-08-22T21:19:00.001-07:00

Top Marks

2009-08-21T21:57:00.000-07:00

Looking at a Christopher Kane collection feels very much a sexual act for me. I practically crave a cigarette afterwards- and I don't even smoke. His newest work for Topshop might not reach the Big O level of his own line, but it certainly provides quick satisfaction. But who would expect more for $60-310? I particularly like that he included the signature animal graphic dress. Because let's be honest, even a clothes horse like me doesn't want to shell out $1,000 for an oversized t-shirt with a gator on it. We have those in FL, after all. Other highlights are his mirrored leggings, sweet and tough cardigan and hardware-laden bags. And don't forget the see-through mirrored dress. That one makes me want to pull a GaGa.

Photos from TheCut.com

Style Is Eternal

2009-08-21T19:43:00.000-07:00

GC, Back in the Day

One of Her Most Celebrated Shoots

GC Currently

In the hoopla surrounding the release of The September Issue documentary, it's been interesting to see the personalities of editors come through. From my brief experience in fashion and magazines, our industry isn't as full of characters as Project Runway and The Devil Wears Prada would have you believe. In fact, most fashion people are intensely creative and hate the spotlight. Think the awkward, emo kid who liked to draw in the back of math class. However, it's fitting that Vogue, as a larger than life publication, has a larger than life staff. At this point, Anna is as legendary as Coco Chanel and as much of a caricature as Lagerfeld. Equal parts fact and fiction. The film and its recent publicity stints have done nothing to change that.

Her sidekick, the ever gorgeous and talented Grace Coddington, has proven to be true to her reputation as well. Grace, a former model, still loves the clothes she works with and is apparently the last major creative director who dresses her girls herself. I love the scene in The September Issue where she pushes and shoves a belted sweater to get it just right, practically lifting the model off the ground. I certainly don't doubt the talent and authenticity of people like Anna and Lagerfeld- in some cases I'm even their hugest fan. But I love to see someone who is as openly passionate about this job as I am- who seems unembarrassed and happy to be there. Perhaps that's why, at 16 or 60, Grace has appeared at the top of her field. She might be buckling instead of posing in the shoes now, but don't let that fool you. She still wears the pants.

Photos from Vogue

Save the Lacroix

2009-06-07T20:07:00.000-07:00

I haven't always been the biggest fan of Christian Lacroix's work. But due to recent events regarding his line's future, I feel compelled to stick on his side. After all, the fate of Lacroix could very well represent the fate of couture. Lacroix is the last true couturier— he stopped relying on jeans, ready-to and bags years ago. And while this preserves the integrity of his art, it also makes him financially vulnerable. Despite having a very loyal client base and industry respect, Lacroix, like all designers, loses money on couture. Yet unlike Lagerfeld for Chanel, his losses are not buffered by gains through coveted perfumes and status bags. Because of this reality, couture no longer exists as business, but purely as art. In a way, this allows designers freedom without monetary incentive. What worries me however, is that this system seems to prove that art, perhaps like all things, cannot exist without financial backers.

Call me naive, but I find this to be a cruel reality. As someone who is dedicating her life to fashion, not only as a business, but also as a lifestyle and philosophy, this truth would be too much. Romanticism aside, fashion needs dreamers like Lacroix and their grandiose ideas to inspire and trickle down into the industry. Couture isn't merely display. It is the driving force, an impetus of the seasons. It is the idea behind the action. Lacroix's ordeal has touched me because he understands this. As he wrote in an open letter to his workers, "I don't know what tomorrow will be made of, if indeed there is a tomorrow, but I will do everything to ensure we remain a couture house 200%, and to safeguard a knowhow without which the lungs and the heart of this house would not exist." Someone who has been designing for free and is owed 1.2 millions euros for his work clearly had motivations other than sales. Lacroix's courageous fight isn't only for his own house, but also for the creative, pure concept behind it. His designs acknowledge the notion of escapism in the most triumphant way possible, as no other couturier can.

I'm reminded of something he said in an interview years ago, in more optimistic times. Lacroix stated, "The world needs some excitement from fashion. The big evolutions in fashion always come in times when things are tough. They are an escape to a better world." This assertion is undoubtedly right. My hope remains that during the evolution we don't discard the past.

Photos from Style.com

Wish List

2009-05-28T23:00:00.000-07:00

If I don't get this adorably retro yet modern swim suit ASAP, someone is going to get hurt.

Photo from Barney's

Inspiration

2009-05-28T22:52:00.000-07:00

Thumbing through a magazine the other day, it hit me just how beautiful Chanel's SS'09 campaign really is. And while I'm a huge fan of the clothes and Heidi Mount, the striking aspect of the photos is the austere interior. Quietly beautiful, it lets the amazing light quality do all the work— and what work it does. Apparently, Lagerfeld was inspired by the Danish artist Vilhelm Hammershoi. When something works, why not run with it?

Photos from Chanel and Wikipedia

Let the Crazy Begin

2009-05-07T00:08:00.000-07:00

From now on, whenever I feel sad, I plan on looking at this photo. Thank you, Lezlo, for brightening my life.

Image from GoFugYourself.com

Model Muses

2009-05-06T22:48:00.000-07:00

Rodarte

Versace

Chanel Couture

Marc Jacobs

These four ladies outshone the rest of the pack. I love Jessica Stam's simple hair/styling, Claudia's sexy yet traditional black gown, Diane Kruger's delicate minimalism and Kate's statuesque vibe. Bonus points for the arm candy on both counts.

Images from WWD.com

Plain Janes

2009-05-06T22:46:00.001-07:00

Oh hey, we're just rolling into this thing called the Met Gala. It's open bar, right?

Image from WWD.com

All Hail

2009-05-06T22:33:00.001-07:00

I am in no way going to try to claim that what Madonna wore to the Met Gala was beautiful, forward-thinking or fashionable. But it was fabulous. Fabulous in the sense that only Madonna could wear a hiked up bubble skirt, Michael Jackson gloves, bondage boots, bunny ears (?) and a scrunchie (oh, apparently they DO exist in NYC Miss Carrie Bradshaw!). Yet she managed to wear all this without it wearing her. Ok, she looked more than a tad ridiculous. But she also looked like herself, and purely confident. At least that's what those biceps are telling me.

So let's take the heat off Madge for awhile, shall we? I think Blake Lively and Cindy Crawford were much larger disasters. In similarly wanton and bedazzled high school prom gowns, complete with matching leg slits no less, the pair looked like they were playing a game of sexy dress-up— one much too young, and one much too old. Both looked uncomfortable.

Ladies, please wear something that says you, not someone else. Even if that means pulling out the 80's hair accessories.

Images from WWD.com

Pucci-for-Less

2009-04-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

Matthew Williamson, the former creative director of Pucci, is coming out with a capsule collection for H&M this week. Quality issues aside, it's nice to see that his fast work retains the same vibrancy and fun. I'll be making a dash for these two pieces.

Very Nice!

2009-04-22T18:28:00.000-07:00

Ever since Sacha Baron Cohen stormed the Milan and Paris runways a couple seasons ago dressed as his stylish alter-ego Bruno, the anticipation for his new movie has been very high. Though Cohen's characters are universally amusing, Bruno will undoubtedly appeal to the fashion crowd in particular. As this photo shows, he will certainly fit in.

Photo from RottenTomatoes.com

Dog Days

2009-04-18T17:28:00.001-07:00

Valentino: The Last Emperor is my favorite film since Lagerfeld Confidential. But as charming as Va Va is, it's his adorable (and fashionable) pugs that steal the movie.

Photo from Acolyte Films

So Many Possibilities

2009-04-14T10:20:00.000-07:00

As those of you who know me are aware, I am desperately in love with Olivier Theyskens' designs. When Nina Ricci let him go this past season, I was foaming at the mouth mad— the sort of mad I normally reserve for trashy celebrity-lines and sold-out capsule collections. Rumor has it he's been made offers at Halston, Schiaparelli and has a new potential backer for his namesake line. Plus, Anna Wintour and other notables are said to share my fury, so I'm sure he'll wind up with a good gig. Cher Olivier is destined for great things. I mean, just look at that face.

Photo from NYMag.com

April Showers Bring...

2009-04-13T22:47:00.000-07:00

It's going to be awhile before we're entirely through with this cold and rain business. And since the May flowers are taking their time, why not help them along by buying a cheerful umbrella? They might just be one of the most underrated accessories. After all, who doesn't love the Ascot scene in My Fair Lady? Louis Vuitton is selling a classic Arc en Ciel umbrella that aches of simpler times. Lulu Guinness, that Sloane Square titan, also spun out some charmingly British versions this season. The sun is so overrated.

Photos from Louis Vuitton and Lulu Guinness

In Which I Prove the Greatness That Is Carla Bruni

2009-04-07T11:19:00.000-07:00

Exhibit A

Exhibit B

Exhibit C

As a devoted follower of Carla Bruni, I never felt quite— right— fawning over Michelle Obama. I don't cheat on my style icons. Nevertheless, it was about time the White House stopped being the headquarters of the Oscar de la Renta crowd. I'm glad that Michelle embraces new designers like Jason Wu, stalwarts such as Narciso Rodriquez and European designers like Azzedine Alaia. And of course, I have to love a woman who shops at my beloved J. Crew. Up until this week's trip to Europe, her open, quasi-experimental take on fashion was starting to win me over. Yet when standing next to Carla, Michelle's "genius" lost some serious points in my mind. Sure, Carla wore Dior all freaking weekend— but she looked adorable, and knew it too. Despite Carla's arguably yawn-inducing tendencies to stick to the classic houses, neutrals and flats (damn you, Sarko), she still managed to outshine the supposed ingenue. How can this be? Carla knows her body and what works with it. Exhibit A: Though Michelle's Thakoon and Carla's Dior coats are similar in intent, Carla's reaches a level of grace through perfect tailoring, a cinched waist and luxurious fabric. Michelle's is colorful and whimsical. Good for her. But in the end, it makes her look 20 lbs. heavier. The same mistake can be seen in Exhibit B. Michelle is fit, don't get me wrong. I have seen the arms. But the A-line combined with the layers and ruffles on her dress make her look huge on the bottom, whereas Carla shows off her perfect figure AND plays the cute card with her jewel-toned clutch and detailed neckline. The other reason for Carla's infinite superiority is less definable. In the same way that I will never be Jane Birkin no matter how I cut my hair or how many Repettos I buy, Michelle will never be Carla (or Jackie O for that matter) no matter how she dresses. Few people can achieve the level of stylish, personal ease Carla has reached. It requires a certain something that I'm guessing she didn't buy at Colette. Even though Michelle dresses similarly to Carla in Exhibit C, Carla still steals the attention, making anyone in her immediate range appear dumpy by comparison. Not because of novelty or blatant sex appeal, but because she manages to turn an everyday knee-length coat and black slacks into something ethereal.

Angela Merkel, I have nothing to say to you.

All images from Getty.

Les enfants du paradis

2009-03-11T14:16:00.000-07:00

Alexander McQueen's crew gives motley a good name. Inspired by Pierrot, the iconic French mime who is immortalized along with the rest of bohemian Paris in the film Les enfants du paradis, this collection has an intensely creative, eclectic feeling that works better than just about anything this season. Each piece speaks independently. And together— well— together they are, like the film's mime, de la lune.

All images from NYMag.com

Sweet Sorrow

2009-02-26T11:16:00.000-08:00

Something tells me that these $1,795 Louboutins aren't coming home with me anytime soon. But as the ever-wise Uncle Karl said, "It is very ugly to think they shouldn't exist because you cannot buy them." Here's to hoping for the more modest $995 mesh Stella McCartneys or the $665 Miu Miu wedges.

Images from NYMag.com

Tough Love

2009-02-17T20:40:00.000-08:00

Though it's not the sweet perfection of their slasher inspired collection two seasons ago, this Matrix-esque show made my heart flutter. You think I would get tired of Kate and Laura essentially making the same thing over and over in different colors and variations, but their brand of strong, modern romanticism gets me every time.

Images from NYMag.com

The Ying and the Yang

2009-02-17T20:33:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time since I've been so excited about a Marc by Marc show. Most of the collection was the perfect balance of wearability and whimsy. I mean, seriously people. Look at the whimsy. JUST LOOK AT IT!!! Unfortunately, dear Marc also added dresses and coats that made size-00 models look huge. Now- I am ALL for playing with shape, and heaven knows I don't give a damn about practicality 99.9% of the time. But I can't imagine anyone wanting to look like a bloated, plaid, homeless elephant (Re: the final photo).

All images from NYMag.com

My Future Husband

2009-02-15T22:04:00.001-08:00

That is all.

My Baby's All Grown-Up!!

2009-02-13T20:31:00.001-08:00

I can't lie. I've always turned to BCBG for reliable but not extraordinary pieces. BCBG is like my fall-back guy. Always there for me when I can't find something more exciting. But this time, Max Azria really turned up his game. The collection kept BCBG's bobo youthfulness but had a new sense of high-end refinement and detail; note the dropped backs, treated fabrics and thoughtfully draped gowns. Maybe this is his way of saying he wants to take it to the next level.

Good photos from NYMag.com.

Terrible one from me.

Just Because

2009-02-13T20:28:00.000-08:00

I love Karen Elson and I love her hat.

Just Like a Circus

2009-02-13T20:12:00.000-08:00

Few people actually go to Charlotte Ronson for her clothes. Much more appealing is the circus that is her friends, family and their friends. And their friends of friends. And so on. Lezlo, Mark and Cory Kennedy sat in front of me while Saman did her DJ thing (rather well, much to my surprise). Peaches Geldof and the rest of that crew were there as well. Put all of them together and you would expect at least one decent cat fight, maybe even a little mace. But sadly, my thirst for blood sports was not satisfied. At least the show was better than usual. My favorite model of the moment, Iekeliene Strange, opened and the collection had some high points. I really enjoyed the leather gloves, blue plaid and chiffon dresses. Sadly, when Charlotte fell she fell hard.

All images courtesy of my own terrible photography skills.

The Sweetest Thing

2009-02-13T17:38:00.001-08:00

Yigal Azrouel is a fashion darling for more reasons than one. His newest collection is true to his aesthetic— organic but trendy. I especially love the chunky boyfriend sweaters and drop-waist trousers. But most of all, I just love Yigal.

All images from NYMag.com

In the Beginning...

2009-02-13T00:29:00.000-08:00

Peter Som

Vera Wang Lavender Label

Jenni Kayne

As I'm counting down the hours to my first NY Fashion Week show like a little kid on Christmas Eve, let me tease you with a few images from today's presentations. Other than Peter Som, I'm not fond of these houses. And, like most other people in the fashion community, I've been dreading the effect the economy will have on this season's collections. But lo and behold, I was actually pretty impressed— good omen, perhaps? I did get a kick out of Jenni Kayne's choice of shoe. I just bought a pair myself: BCBG SS09.

All images from Style.com

Hey Babe- Nice Angles

2009-02-10T22:17:00.000-08:00

I thought the Dior couture show was good, yes. But this angle is giving me a whole new buzz.

Photo from WWD.com

The Devil Is in the Details

2009-01-31T21:58:00.000-08:00

I feel like these clothes deserve to be taken out to a 3-Michelin star dinner and treated to a fine bottle of Dom Perignon before I wear them.

All images from Style.com

Head Over Heels

2009-01-31T21:24:00.000-08:00

In a twist from recent seasons, the star of Chanel's couture show wasn't gilted, perilous stilettos (though one unlucky model did take a tumble). Instead, the intricate headdresses, made entirely out of paper, stole all the attention— and maybe a few hearts.

All images from Style.com

Bad Move, Va Va

2009-01-28T20:45:00.000-08:00

Alessandra Facchinetti should have clutched the reigns of Valentino. Though I agree that Maria Chiuri and Pier Piccioli's first attempt at couture was by no means disastrous, it was respectable. And couture is not about respectable. Facchinetti may have made some missteps, but she never played it safe. It's the case of the yawn-inducing red suit vs. the lovely but perhaps unwearable (and uncommercial— tsk tsk Va Va) gown.

All images from Style.com

Superfemale

2009-01-28T20:30:00.000-08:00

Molly Haskell, the film theorist, coined the term "superfemale" to describe heroines who manage to dominate yet retain a feminine sensibility. In other words, the woman Jean Paul Gaultier personified with this collection.

All images from Style.com

Step Aside, Juliet

2009-01-28T20:08:00.000-08:00

At dinner the other night a friend and I were talking about Ophelian style. Then I came home and watched the Givenchy show, complete with flowers, romantic pale gowns and creepy dead-lady make-up. Yes— definitely channeling Ophelia. At least in this version girlfriend gets sent off in couture.

All images from Style.com

Oh, Mme Hash:

2009-01-28T20:01:00.000-08:00

I went to your couture presentation, and all I got was this lousy suit.

Image from Style.com

Maximizing Minimalism

2009-01-27T21:53:00.000-08:00

Karl Lagerfeld's newest couture for Chanel embodies the best of aestheticism. There's the immediate, orgasmic pleasure of looking at the collection as a whole: endless, enveloping white punctuated by the crispness of perfect tailoring and black. And then there is the pleasure of the details. Uncle Karl's meticulous use of matte plastic, lace, cellophane and organza fluff transforms classic beauty into something altogether more breathtaking. Under the guidance of his discriminating imagination, the trimming became the outfit.

All images from Style.com

Minimizing Maximalism

2009-01-27T21:34:00.000-08:00

Lacroix, whose confectionary garments are best known for their sweetness that borders on sickly at times, seems to have taken some classes in streamlining. Or perhaps it's just SPRING cleaning. Zing. I'm really enjoying the toned-down Lacroix, but I hope he doesn't lose his personality— some of the mix-and-match ensembles reminded me of Marc Jacobs' last collection in intent and flavor.

All images from Style.com

Seeing Past the Red

2009-01-26T20:30:00.000-08:00

John Galliano falls into the wonderful, sadly declining group of designers who create to make something genuinely unique and beautiful. Occasionally—when the stars align, or through osmosis, etc. etc. etc.—this something can make the client feel just as remarkable.

As Galliano stated after the Dior couture show, "There's a credit crunch, not a creative crunch... It's our job to make people dream, and to provide the value in quality, cut and imagination." Despite the failing economy, people crave art. In fact, we probably need it even more. When reality gets harsh, we need escapism and fantasy. We need that extraordinary dress to transport us to a softer, more pleasurable place, which is what fashion at its best can do.

So if, as some critics say, the mark of "successful" art is that is completes its purpose, than the newest Dior collection triumphed. I believe you would be hard-pressed to find even one guest who wasn't carried away, at least for a moment, by Galliano's playful mixture of Dutch paintings and the classic Dior New Look. The Old World glamor of the cuts, the richness of the palette and the overall boldness make it my favorite so far. I dare you not to smile.

All images from Style.com

Velvet by the Yard

2009-01-26T20:08:00.000-08:00

I have an obsession with velvet clothes. When I was six I got my first velvet dress— it was purple with a peter-pan collar and everything that a little girl's dress should be. Inevitably, it got ruined, and I mourned its passing for weeks. Maybe this should have been a clue as to my future direction. Anyway. I was pleased to see Penelope Cruz looking beautiful in this Azzedine Alaia at the SAG Awards the other night and even MORE pleased to see velvet all over Alexis Mabille's couture collection. It's nice to know that some childhood pleasures translate so well to adulthood.

All images from Style.com

Fashion Show, Fashion Show, Fashion Show at Lunch!

2009-01-26T19:51:00.001-08:00

The couture shows are my favorite part of the year. For me, they represent not so much the industry of fashion, but the idea of fashion. Couture is creativity and inspiration at their peak. And considering that the last RTW season wasn't the most exciting I remember, though it certainly had its highs in designers like Marc Jacobs and Calvin Klein, I am especially thirsty for vision.

Normally, I'm not the biggest fan of Armani Prive. Whenever someone mentions it I immediately think of Anne Hathaway in some bland strapless number with an updo and huge earrings. However, I was pleasantly surprised to see the above gowns. Sure- the lacy thing was just done (impeccably by Prada) but I like this take because it feels a little harder and three-dimensional. The sand-dollar effect on the silver gown is romantic without going too far, perhaps because of the material's peek-a-boo quality.

Unfortunately, some of Armani's more obvious, Eastern-inspired pieces harshed my buzz.

All images from Style.com.

New Year, New Face

2009-01-18T19:29:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year All:

From now on, the blog will focus exclusively on fashion, rather than including culture, film, etc. Since I never really posted on these topics anyway, I think it's safe to assume they will not be missed.

So here's to a fresh blog that shall have fresh posts!

A Foreign Affair

2008-09-06T12:24:00.000-07:00

The ColettexGap pop-up opened today next to the 5th and 54th flagship with much very little fanfare— only a quiet "bonjour" from the sales associate. I had to wait about an hour to get in as they monitor the door and only let in about 25 people at a time, and when I left the line stretched around the block. But with limited edition Repettos, Longchamp totes, t-shirts and all sorts of the knick-knacks Colette is famous for (my favorite are the pencils with mustaches), the wait is very much worth it. Its je ne sais quoi will last until October 5th.

Neglect to Spritz at Your Own Peril

2008-08-25T20:46:00.000-07:00

Since I can remember, I've always worn perfume. I don't have a signature scent, but choose to rotate through a few favorites. The important thing is not to forget SOME type of fragrance in the morning. It's not because of BO or men or vanity (though I'm plenty vain), but rather because of superstition. Imagine how surprised I was when I was transcribing an interview with Aaron de Mey and he spoke about his mother having the same belief. After all, Chanel once said, "A woman who doesn't wear perfume has no future."

But it wasn't until today, when I read the interview with Lagerfeld in the UK Times that I decided maybe us crazies know what we're talking about.

Lagerfeld says as only he can, "I have no problem with journalists— many are friends. Only if they are really stupid, or if they've got bad breath, or if they smell. Yesterday I had a problem. I said, 'I'm sorry, you've got to tell this woman that she needs to be taken away. Her smell is not possible.'"

So help me God, I will never be that woman.

Roitfeld/Wintour '08

2008-08-23T13:50:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that the fashion industry loveloveloves Obama. Wintour, Calvin Klein and others hosted a fundraiser for him a few months back, which will be followed by another this NY Fashion Week. But now the campaign is pulling a Project Runway and has coordinated about 20 designers, including Isaac Mizrahi, Tracy Reese, Derek Lam and DVF to design official merchandise for the chic senator's campaign. Rumor has it that Reese originally submitted a $400 silk dress that was shot down because of price (the pieces will be under $200). I plan on buying the top she ended up creating— though I would have loved to have seen Michelle in the official Obama frock.

Twins

2008-08-22T20:30:00.000-07:00

Since I can't have Karl Lagerfeld for my daily amusement, I figure his limited edition teddy bear, which will be sold next month at Neiman Marcus for $1,500, is the next best thing.

One Kilt, or Two?

2008-07-30T22:21:00.000-07:00

Reading about the new men's skirt phenomenon, I was brought back to some eternal questions—Where's the line between funky and freaky in menswear? How much of it actually dallies from the traditional? And would I actually date someone wearing this stuff? I have to admit that I've always found menswear to be a bit of a mystery. I can't apply my eye to it, since I keep inserting my own bias (ogle but please, don't feed the models). With that in mind, some of my favorite designers for men are Burberry Prorsum, Paul Smith and Paul & Jo.

True Love Comes in All Shapes and Sizes, But I Like Mes Amours in the Form of Soft Leather

2008-07-09T17:55:00.000-07:00

Out prowling the sales at Bon Marche other day, I wasn't finding anything to write home about. No flawlessly tailored jackets, no charming Parisian frocks- not even a measly scarf. Until I saw them- the goat skin jazz shoes by Repetto with such perfect detailing and tiny laces. It was love at first sight. But of course, the only model-like quality I am blessed with is my shoe size (I am sample) so any pairs even close to my taille were long gone.

This is when my killer instincts kicked in to the extreme. Some say I lack drive. This is not true. My drive is selective.

I looked up all of the providers in Paris and went to ten in one day to no avail. I had given them up for a missed connection until I went back to Bon Marche and - lo and behold- my size had been returned by some fool. I snatched the flats up, and we are very much in love.

The moral: The sales are getting past the honeymoon period. The best pieces and popular sizes are going fast, so if you really want something, don't hesitate.

Okay, so maybe there's no moral. I just needed an excuse to post a photo.

THIS IS SPARTA!

2008-06-25T12:27:00.000-07:00

Les soldes started today. At 10 a.m. (one hour after les grands magasins opened) I saw a young man with two huge Printemps shopping bags filled with YSL shoes. Teach me, oh wise one.

Do Your Homework

2008-06-19T12:31:00.000-07:00

If college has taught me anything, it's that sometimes a little effort really does pay off— big time. And when the national soldes start on June 25th, the last thing you want to do is be the one who forgot to study for your exams. Here's some advice: start shopping NOW and bring a Moleskine with you. Visit the stores, try on everything and write down your sizes for each piece. If you're hardcore, target which stores (if they're a chain) are well-stocked beforehand. On the morning of the 25th, drop your macaroon and make a victory lap of the shops to pick up your well-earned treasure. No sweat necessary.

Viens à Saint Germain

2008-06-15T12:55:00.000-07:00

Paris isn't NYC.

If you're an American partier, particularly one who is used to that great playground of Manhattan, it's best to know that before you set out for a night in Paris. I made the mistake of not doing that last night. Looking everywhere for an American style dance club, I wasted my night in the trashy, touristy parts of town (Montparnasse, Champs-E, etc).

The lamest part? The whole time I knew of a great place to go— St-Germain. Sure, if you're dead-set on the kind of club or bar you're used to, you might not find it there. But it's rich in nightlife, young people and has a great, charming atmosphere that's a mix between rural and urban. Enjoy it and don't try to force Paris to be something it's not.

Some places to hit up there:

1. Chez Georges. Don't be turned off by the top floor. Wait for the downstairs wine cellar and be prepared for shoulder-to-shoulder drinking, a quirky playlist and impromptu table dancing.

2. The Frog and the Princess. A great mix of ex-pats and French students. Everyone's friendly and the drinks are strong. If you don't care to stay inside, the street it's one is lined with bars and pubs so you can socialize in the crowds there.

3. Le Bar du Marche/ cafes lining rue du Bac. It's fun to start or end a night by grabbing a drink and snack at one of these places. The standing areas around the bars are usually swarmed with people as well.

Wander around- you're sure to find whatever you're looking for.

A New Beginning

2008-06-12T12:19:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I started my internship at the Paris office of a NYC-based publication. It's been awhile since I've been around the buzz of a fashion office and I enjoyed being back. After the usual internly duties of packaging sample returns, I actually got to try my hand at writing a piece on hot spots for the well-heeled in Paris (something I was only too happy to do). Hopefully it will be published in a couple weeks, but here's a few bits of what I recommend to keep it interesting in the city of lights:

L'Hotel (la pavillion d'amour pictured): Michelin-starred restaurant, glitzy but intimate bar, private bath/steam rooms, well-chosen DVD/CD library, amazing neighborhood... the works. Plus, Oscar Wilde died here and the place reeks of literati history.

Ferdi: The first time I went to this place, it was after a horrible couple days and it instantly cheered me up. Family-owned and decorated with the son's very colorful toy collection, the restaurant has huge heart (something that can be hard to find in the neighborhood). The menu is rumored to be based off of what the mother cooked when she had her pregnancy cravings and is pretty eclectic: truffle risotto, Spanish tapas, burgers and even real mac & cheese (yes, in Paris). The young son/bartender makes a wild mojito. Maybe what I love most is that despite Ferdi's lack of pretension, it attracts Marc Jacobs, Pierre Hardy and Penelope Cruz as regulars.

Abou d'abi Bazaar: This is one of my long-time favorite one-stop best bets. It carries tons of the more affordable (dresses 100-500 euro) popular French brands plus newcomers. I actually went today and they just started a small vintage section... no real labels but very reasonable for some fun summer pieces.