La Dolce Vita

Why have I just heard about this?

2008-04-25T22:37:00.000-07:00

Seriously, people, since when did French Vogue do TV? Have you seen their interviews des rédactrices: http://www.vogue.fr/vogue-tv-interview-des-redactrices-home-libre58.htm

The best ways to study for my French exam next week, bien sûr!

Fall is oh-so-rugged

2008-02-03T15:53:00.000-08:00

And Mr. Wang always delights with his sophisticated, urban disheveled look. Wonderfully New York, beautifully crafted and wearable separates. (image from New York Magazine)

The Pains of the Fashion Industry

2007-05-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

Despite a freshman collection bought out by Barney's, despite winning CFDA's Fashion Fund award, and despite giving into the vast consumerization known as Target, Proenza Schouler is still experiencing growing pains.

After buying out one of their investors, the design team has been looking for some deep pockets to expand their business. Apparently, an unnamed European luxury firm is said to be helping the young designers with their financial expansion.

I wonder if this will be a merger, an acquisition, or merely a loan...

Who knew YSL wanted to be a beatnik?

2007-05-01T11:00:00.000-07:00

If you happen to be looking for a movie to add on your netflix list, take a look at "Yves Saint Laurent - His Life and Times/5 Avenue Marceau 75116 Paris". A two part documentary on YSL - history, his influences, couture house, and creative process. Quite intriguing.

A Plot Against Our Kaiser!

2007-04-24T18:29:00.000-07:00

http://vogue.co.uk/vogue_daily/story/story.asp?stid=44394

Under the guise

2007-04-24T11:41:00.000-07:00

If you enjoy a little covert fashion, take a look at some of the masked creations crafted by our finest...
http://nymag.com/fashion/features/07/04/designer-masks

I hate fads...

2007-04-18T13:56:00.000-07:00

The high-waists, the full legs... another fad is coming this Spring. Except it's already here and as hideous as ever. Seriously, even the Shopbop model looks odd-shaped.And then we have the poor fashion victims that just don't know any better:I can see this style working approximately .1% of the time on about .1% of the world's female population. So unless you fall into that .01%, I severely discourage anyone from attempting this look. Just don't. For your own sake.

Why Chicago Will Never Be a Fashion Capital

2007-04-15T09:31:00.000-07:00

Overheard in Lori's Shoes:

Woman to friend: "It's not that I have good taste. I just have really expensive taste."

Oh, Stella

2007-04-12T09:06:00.000-07:00

While I've been obsessed with Stella McCartney's Adidas line for quite some time now, the new tennis apparel leaves me gasping for Spring. Stunning, functional, and makes you want to go work out. What more could a girl ask for?

The British are coming...

2007-03-28T07:20:00.000-07:00

Kate's Topshop at Barneys? Now this is a whole new twist on the high and low-end wardrobe mix.

1 Actress = 10 Models?

2007-03-26T11:25:00.000-07:00

So if I'm doing my math correctly, American Vogue considers models to be cover-worthy only if there are 10 of them. The annual supermodel issue is coming up in June, with 10 beautiful faces gracing the cover. The other eleven covers of the year, however, are plastered with random celebrities, supposedly to boost sales of a fashion magazine. Maybe this concept of vast consumerization we should just accept and move on.
But then why even have the supermodel issue? Do we even have supermodels anymore? Vogue certainly doesn't think so. If it did, they would actually put the appropriate girls on the cover. We, unfortunately, have to live in a world with Jennifer whoever-the-hell-she-is imposing on my monthly reading.

Women's Day

2007-03-08T23:17:00.000-08:00

In Russia, March 8th is one of the most important non-holiday events. Right up there with September 1st, the first day of school. Except this one is dedicated solely to women. Children bring their teachers irises, husbands bring their wives roses, and a joyous mood is rampant. And what more appropriate way to celebrate than with fashion, the epitome of all feminine?
Happy Women's Day to you all! Enjoy being a girl.

Structured in the Chaotic

2007-03-01T16:07:00.000-08:00

After a nail-biter of a stock market for the past three days, news of increased deaths in Iraq, and something about John McCain running for President, it was Paris Fashion Week that provided reassuring and structured answers to the world's problems. Sounds naive? Maybe. But the smoke and mirrors of fashion is what we all love the most. To get lost in that beautiful world, tucked in between Givenchy's azul furs and Balenciaga's cozy tribal gowns.
Editors, buyers, and fashion correspondents abroad will all rave of the world's troubled and bleak outlook transforming itself into inspiration for the designers. Hussein Chalayan's environmental campaign via catwalk certainly presents itself as the perfect exhibit. But let's not get too carried away here... it's fashion! Forget about social commentary. Fall is bringing us the most brilliant display of craftsmanship we have seen in a while.

Givenchy

Dior

Balenciaga

Reason #548 why I miss Paris

2007-02-27T12:25:00.001-08:00

Scott Schuman's sartorial diary of Paris Fashion Week is just too much... gorgeous!

Gotta love Daria

2007-02-25T13:03:00.000-08:00

For those that haven't seen the Prada movie yet...
http://www.pradaparfums.com/woman/

Armani Corporation for Sale

2007-02-20T06:56:00.000-08:00

According to the German newspaper Das Handelsblatt, the designer that always refuted all rumors to sell his business has finally started looking for a buyer. Apparently, L'Oreal is looking at becoming partner, but Mr. Armani is holding out for a higher bidder. And what is Mr. Armani's current appraisal of his business? 5 billion Euro.
Perhaps this will be a good move for the 72-year old designer, securing his company's future.

Barneys makes me swoon

2007-02-14T16:58:00.000-08:00

TGFB! Seriously, thank god for Barneys... maybe it's their unparalleled CoOp, maybe it's their simplistically perfect signature line. What hit it for me this time were the two Martin Grant dresses. From runway to the rack... perfect.

To Raise the Spirits

2007-02-13T16:23:00.000-08:00

To comfort myself from the heinous mess that is Vogue, I decided to review Proenza's FW07 collection for about the 29th time this week.

How perfect is this knit for a cold, wintery night? Kinda wish I had one for this blizzard...And their signature blouson with the perfect wide trouser combo?
I'm in a better mood already.

This makes a dolman-sleeved trench look good

2007-02-12T23:16:00.000-08:00

I'm sure she's a lovely girl and all... but why the hell is Jennifer Hudson on the cover of Vogue, followed with an uninspired spread?
Am I going to have to boycott American Vogue? I feel like I'm looking at a Cosmo or something equally ghastly.

Seriously?

2007-02-03T12:16:00.000-08:00

Am I the only one that thinks this is completely heinous?A dolman-sleeved trench from Michael Kors. Kind of disgusting.

Find your soulmate

2007-01-21T18:35:00.000-08:00

Spring is almost here. Well, not almost, but soon enough. It's time to invest in a trench coat. You know you need one.

If you're a sailor at heart, a Moschino Cheap & Chic from net-a-porter:

If you're romantic, a Phillip Lim from Jake:

If you're not afraid of a white coat, Burberry Prorsum at net-a-porter:
If you're an urban princess, Hanii Y at net-a-porter:
If you like to shine, a metallic Stella McCartney from net-a-porter:

If you're still cold, a wool Marc by Marc Jacobs from Barneys:
If you enjoy a good zipper, a Marc Jacobs from net-a-porter:

If you're an old soul, the class Burberry London from net-a-porter:

Riding with my homies

2007-01-14T09:39:00.000-08:00

Given the Sartorialist's equestrian discovery in Florene, it should come as no surprise that the Ralph Lauren-eque pony theme has been cropping up all over Italy. Including many window displays in Roma:Don't you just adore the boots?

Why I am excited for 2007

2006-12-25T16:48:00.000-08:00

1. Martin Grant2. Pеter Jensen

Paris in the Fall

2006-11-07T06:26:00.000-08:00

Walking up Avenue Montaigne on the way to lunch at L'Avenue, I knew that I found my city. The beautiful women, draped in black, with their perfectly polished Chanel sunglasses perched on their heads, black Chanel bags propped next to their chairs, smoking post-lunch Gauloises blonde... ah, Paris. La Femme's astute observation of armies of "Moss feet" have been replaced by the slightly more reasonable (for the lower temperatures) booties and riding boots. In fact, Paris has taken on a very Napoleonic air this fall. Wool peacoats with double breasted bronze buttons and dramatic capes are, apparently, quite the perfect choice for outerwear while running around Paris on a crisp Sunday afternoon.
Attempting to keep shopping under control, I limited myself to a beautiful pair of black knee length boots from a little boutique in the Marais, a winter scent from a local parfumerie, and a few shift dresses to wear for the holidays. It is indeed la vie en rose.

History Repeats

2006-10-25T15:46:00.000-07:00

Just had the loveliest trip to Barcelona this weekend. What a wonderful vibe and sense of style! You have your typical Chloe chic girls, mixed with more bohemian Spanish beach surfers, all thrown into modernist galleries with trendy universitat students.
While wandering the city doing touristy things one day, I decided to go against my guidebook's suggestion of skipping "the dull Museu Textil i d'Indumentaria," and popped over there after getting my Picasso fix from across the street. While the layout wasn't awe-inspiring, the collection was quaint and beautiful. Looking at pieces from the eighteenth century, it was amazing to see dresses that could still be worn on the red carpet today.Or how about the classic Balenciaga donation?
I love classic vintage.

Wait, WHAT?!

2006-10-18T16:24:00.000-07:00

Nicole Richie on the cover of Vogue Italia this month.
Mischa Barton on the cover of Vogue UK next month.
Paris Hilton on the cover of Vogue Paris next month.

I don't know if any of you caught the October issue of Vogue Italia... but people like Kevin Federline were featured in it. Multiple times.

I'm not freaking out yet. It's probably a joke. It has to be a joke.

Unplanned Hiatus

2006-10-16T17:56:00.000-07:00

It has been a whirlwind these past 2 weeks. Morocco and Milan, with many places in between...
Anyway, Morocco was a scarf fiend's wet dream. The women there drape themselves with gorgeous shawls and beautiful garbs. I just wish I was able to take more pictures. But, the king was travelling through the region, security was tight, and cameras were frowned upon.
The people were so kind and generous, however, that the trip left a lasting impression on me, as well as gorgeous handcrafted goods: Copper bracelets and shawls in an array of sparkling colors that contrast with this fall's dark wardrobe.

Too much travel, too much work

2006-09-27T04:08:00.001-07:00

Between Marbella, Morocco, and modern Spanish art, there has been very little time for proper posts. Stay tuned for fashion inspiration from north Africa...

(frostfrench.livejournal.com)

2006-09-20T03:02:00.001-07:00

How can something be simple, yet complicated all at one glorious time? Sarah Mower said it was the Marie Antoinette effect... I call it genius. Preen created that perfect i'm-not-trying-i'm-just-cool look for their Spring '07 collection.

And how about that burst of canary in a sea of neutrals? Love!

I miss New York!

2006-09-18T15:26:00.000-07:00

The Sartorialist makes me crave to be in New York again. His homage to a rainy day on the style.com blog was just enough for me to pull my trench out of the suitcase. I'm wearing it around my room while staring out the window at the little Spanish children happily eating ice cream cones in the Granadian heat.

Skinny Model Ban

2006-09-13T06:43:00.001-07:00

I'm sure you've all heard by now... Madrid's SS07 Fashion Show, Pasarela Cibeles (set for September 18th), has placed a ban on thin models. Well, not a ban, per say, but a strict recommendation. If I correctly converted the metric measurements, models must be at least 18 years old and weigh at least 124 lbs. for a 5'9" frame, as reported by Granada's 20 Minutos. Granted, these are measurements of a thin girl, but in no way the typical model. Models are not just skinny girls, they are hangers meant to showcase the designer's garments. If there were hips, clothing wouldn't hang properly!
While I value the governmental efforts to decrease cases of anorexia and bulimia in the country, they are strictly imposing on designer's freedom of expression. And what about the poor girls that are naturally thin and not coked out? Surely it's unfair to exclude them from fashion shows because their natural BMI happens to be lower than the standard. In fact, it's a form of reverse discrimation. If the government placed a ban on all girls with BMIs over 19, there would be an uproar! But isn't that the exact same thing as saying they must have BMIs of at least 18? And I don't even want to get into the whole 18 and over deal...
Screw politics. What's more important is that I don't want to see a 'standard' walking down the runway, I want a dream. And if that dream happens to weigh 100 lbs, so be it.

Me encanta

2006-09-12T06:27:00.000-07:00

I always knew I liked Jovovich-Hawk.How perfect for a lovely, post-brunch Sunday afternoon?
(style.com)

The Witching Hour

2006-09-03T04:10:00.000-07:00

Black is always in, this we know quite well... but obscurity and abstract heaviness are the epitome of fall '06 fashion. It's regal, seductive, and a bit pretentious.
From black nailpolish to heavy bangs to combinations of black/purple/grey, it's not the same as it was in the 90s. No grunge or goth is evident with the lusciously painted dark nails, but rather an elegant and polished look for fall. Even New York magazine decided to pay a special tribute to the ever recurring trend.

And what better way to accentuate your lovely manicure than with a pop of heavy bangs. I'm obviously biased (given that I've been a fan of the beauty trend for quite some time), but Irina Lazareanu deserves full credit for this amazing fall look. We know it's really in once Lindsay jumps on the trend boat... but her editorial for Jalouse magazine is too delicious for me to care. For a final lunge into the beautiful fall, the greys (which are everywhere) must be combined with black, plum, or navy. In fact, I just invested in a luxuriant pair of dark 'precious violet' sunglasses from Dior. They match my Dior eyeliner in that very same hue.

Get excited, this fall promises what the fashion world has been craving for ages... glamour.

Hola!

2006-08-27T17:48:00.000-07:00

Lo siento for my hiatus... but I have just settled into my living arrangments in Spain. Oh, I probably forgot to mention this. After 2 months of interning in New York, I decided that it was only appropriate to continue my education for a semester in Granada. You know, just to mix it up a bit. I will certainly get back to regularly scheduled programming (ie, sweater dresses) very soon, but it's much to warm here to think about Fall.
In all truthfullness, I am a bit disappointed with the southern Spaniard's typical style... but it is hot and the students from the University have yet to come into the city. Everyone is still on vacation, so I will reserve commentary for when I have reached a formal conclusion. I do have to say that while the girls here have left me underimpressed, the women are phonemenal. In fact, the older, the better. So chic and precious are the girlfriends walking arm-in-arm in their little floral dresses and beautifully coiffed blue hair. I have photos, but uploading them has proved challenging. I will post them as soon as I can.
A luego.

Have no fear...

2006-08-17T18:59:00.000-07:00

Skinny jeans are not for everyone. On a recent shopping expedition through Intermix, I discovered that the drain-pipe Taverniti So jeans were not for me. Not because I tried them on and didn't like them, but because I couldn't get my toe through the leg opening. I wasn't too upset, I don't like the idea of denim squeezing the life out of my ankles, anyway.
Skinny jeans are only cool for little Lower East Side punk girl. For fashion femmes, I prefer a straight cut. Still narrow and slim, it's a little more sophisticated.
Shopbop.com shows us the ways with Earnest Sewn, Goldsign, and Nfy:

Also equally impressive is the Theory skinny jean. It's actually a very flattering fit on most shapes! On a related note, have you seen Theory's new website? It's very improved with a lovely "My Theory" feature that let's you shop around the website, create PDF files of your items, and even email them to a personal shopper.
Enough about jeans, what I'm really excited for are sweater dresses. Will post findings soon.

A Definite Never

2006-07-23T22:30:00.000-07:00

Dear New York woman,
Please stop wearing those horrible boots with your summer sundress. I'm not sure what Intermix sales girl told you that it was okay to do that... but, fyi, it's July and 89 degrees outside. Take off the boots. I don't care if they are Chloe, you look stupid.

Question of the Month

2006-06-28T22:45:00.000-07:00

Can someone please explain to me why Kate Hudson has clumpy lashes on the cover of American Vogue this month?Well, apparently, Anna does have the answer. In a recent interview with Wall Street Journal, she said something about how, while she loves her staff, they still disagree from time to time because they are trying to make fashion even more forward, while she wants to make it accessible to the reader. Well, darling Anna, I guess the average Vogue reader responds well to Tammy Fae in Balenciaga. Bravo.

Iekeliene, I think

2006-06-23T12:56:00.000-07:00

Saw her on COACD last month, and now she's in W. I looooove her. I just wish they figured out how to spell her name correctly.

Real Bargain Louboutin's

2006-06-21T08:58:00.000-07:00

Christian Louboutin's are now on Bluefly!! I know, I didn't believe it either, but there are pages and pages of beautiful shoes 40% off. And so many of them are seasonless that not a soul would know that they are bargain Louboutin's.

Love the Louboutin

2006-06-15T20:40:00.000-07:00

Via net-a-porter, I have been able to indulge upon countless hours of staring at my darling Christian Louboutin's. Like the Maria peep toe:

Or, the world's most perfect pump, Decoltissimo:

Oh, no... wait, wait. Merry Go Round is impossibly sexy:

What wouldn't I do for any of those beauties?

Ooooh, Chanel

2006-06-14T23:17:00.000-07:00

If you have not seen the Chanel Behind-the-Scenes Cruise 2006/7 footage from New York's Grand Central Station, you are so missing out. My favorite part is when Karl is looking at pictures from the photoshoot and says, "That's very Lindsay, non?" Ha ha ha.... LOVE!And going off Elsa's discussion about the financial aspect of Fashion Week, I love the new trend in showing resort collections. For example, most of Dior's profits come directly from resort, so why not showcase the collection in a high profile setting? Galliano, de la Renta, and Posen are finally getting the hint.
While it is inevitable, I am disappointed that fashion is becoming so business driven. Yes, globalization and survival in one of the most challenging markets leaves no room for puttering around the sewing room trying to expand personal horizons. But I do wish that the focus would shift from money to what this business really is about: style and fashion. It's lovely to have Viktor & Rolf designing a line for Target.... it's not so lovely that they are giving up their time to create beautiful couture for novelty pieces sold to suburban teenagers for $12.99. C'est la vie.

Off the face

2006-06-12T14:32:00.000-07:00

I feel like I've fallen off the face of the earth.... which I kind of have. BUT I'M BACK! I may be the only one truly excited about these news, but there you have it. Many updates will be coming soon (along with pictures), but for now, all I have to say is - RUN, do not walk, to your nearest Theory outlet. Just found the most fantastic dress that is available exclusively from Theory, through the Theory outlet stores. It's called the Bette B in palisade fabric (I think it's like 58% wool with lycra and the sort mixed in there), and they carry it in black, heather beige, and light heather. It is the perfect shift dress. And you need it. I don't care who you are, but trust me on this, it's an essential. I'll post pictures tomorrow!
It feels good to be back.

Irina

2006-05-23T15:35:00.000-07:00

My favorite model of the moment, Irina Lazareanu is featured in Nylon this month. Check it out online, pages 46-47.
She's so fucking cool.

Closetology

2006-05-20T14:57:00.000-07:00

I'm not the biggest fan of fake -ologies, but this one is actually kind of interesting. I just came back from a seminar by Jackie Walker, is a self-proclaimed 'Doctor of Closetology'. "Ok," you're thinking, "Bullshit. I don't even like Dr. Phil, let alone a closetologist."
Well, I was skeptical, too. But it's actually kind of cute. She wrote a book a few years ago called "I Don't Have a Thing to Wear : The Psychology of Your Closet" and it's all about why women only wear 20% of their wardrobes. Even though I consider myself to make sound fashion choices, I can completely relate. Who hasn't stood in front of their closet freaking out because they only had 5 minutes to get ready and they had no clothes to wear? Jackie's theory is that every woman has a mixed type of fashion persona... from classic to natural to modern to romantic, etc. As long as she chooses pieces that are interchangeable and fit into her persona, she should have a great closet full of clothes.
The idea is pretty simple and obvious, but she also had great solutions for everyday problems. For example, when she 'read' my persona, I came out to be 50% classic, 40% mood, and 10% dramatic. Because of my 40% mood-style dressing, I can try on outfits for HOURS and not find anything to wear. Days are spent just piecing together items and walking around my room in circles, staring at the mirror front fifty different angles. She suggests that us 'mood' people spend one day every one or two months piecing together items and figuring out what works for us (and maybe even taking pictures).
Jackie's whole point is to make you feel better about yourself, and I think that's fantastic. The book is a little silly (down to the Cosmo-style quiz about finding your inner style), but very cute and actually resourceful.
At Amazon for only $10.

SHUT UP

2006-05-12T07:45:00.000-07:00

Viktor & Rolf for H&M

No more trash talk, sort of

2006-05-11T22:34:00.001-07:00

I know I've been trying to be nice to Russian Fashion Week, but instead ended up making fun of its amateur cuts and absolutely ridiculous jab at fashion... Well, yeah.
First of all, Yegor Zaitsev. Apparently he has a modeling agency as well, but that's not the crazy part. This is:The chest has "Dior" (in Russian) crossed out with "Yegor" underneath it.
And there is also Ruslana Frantsuzovna, while not completely original, is totally wearable:

Hey, I never said it was good. Just amusing.
(pictures from rfw.ru)

Just say no

2006-05-10T17:58:00.001-07:00

I don't understand. Is the school girl look actually becoming a trend? I thought it was out with Sailor Moon and Britney Spears. Hmmmmmm. From BBC News to net-a-porter.com, it looks like the obsession continues. My verdict? If you're not ditching class to steal smokes or scrawling boys' names into bathroom stalls, you should not be wearing anything resembling a school girl uniform. The only exception is the bedroom.

It's not too difficult to evaluate what's cute versus trashy.

Those Roitfelds

2006-05-10T00:23:00.000-07:00

Julia Restoin-Roitfeld at the Teen Vogue Party in her classic all-black attire. I adore the fact that she has her classic "look". While she certainly deviates with patterns and color, it's this signature black style that looks so modern and polished on her. I think all-black outfits are commonly seen as outdated and too easy. But, perhaps piecing together a monochromatic look is actually more difficult than throwing on labels and calling yourself fashionable. The flow, the detailing, the silhouette... it must all be done right to avoid looking goth or boring. Oh, yeah, and don't forget that lint brush.

Not so fast, Anna Sui

2006-05-05T10:53:00.000-07:00

So just when I've given up all hope for the Anna Sui cocktail dress, I find this on lagarconne.com.

Not only is it going for 262$USD right now, but they also have it in my size. Now it's time to get a plane ticket to Paris.

Solutions to Everyday Problems

2006-05-04T13:26:00.000-07:00

It's every European woman's worst fear. You're walking across the plaza, and all of the sudden, you can't move your heel. That preciously thin and delicate stiletto is stuck between a crack on the cobblestone street. So what can we do to prevent this horrid, horrid despair?
Wedges to the rescue! And I do believe that these precious Marc Jacobs strappy sandals will do just the trick. Can't you just see these darlings paired with a white flowing dress for a summer afternoon stroll in Granada?Maybe with an Anthropologie "Pancakes" Dress, a Catherine Malandrino "Cahuita" Dress, or even a Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent "Garden" Dress.

And then the heavens opened...

2006-05-02T14:08:00.000-07:00

And it appeared. The Anna Sui glitter tulle dress sold exclusively for net-a-porter.com. A bizarre and unexpected steal at 470$USD. But, before I could begin to really salivate, I noticed the bright red "Unfortunately, this item is sold out" script at the bottom of the page.
How is it that I'm always last to find out about these things?
And I looked so cute wearing it while taking my imaginary post-party midnight stroll along the Seine...

Answers

2006-04-30T15:35:00.000-07:00

So, I have had a few questions regarding the last entry and my internship.

1. "What is this fabulous company?"
I'm not sure how much information to divulge... but to quote Phoebe from Friends: "It's like the mothership is calling you home." Or to put it in other words:
Rachel:Ralph Lauren::Liza: ___________

2. "How could a bag possibly get you an internship? It was probably something else."
Well, here are a few anecdotes...
Before the interview, we were discussing where to meet and how we would recognize each other:

Very Important Account Executive : "I am wearing a navy blazer. What do you look like so that I can recognize you?"
Me : "I am wearing a cream sweater, and my bag is the size of life. You can't miss me."
VIAE : *Laughs* "Great, I'll see you soon."
Fastforward to us sitting down at a table...
VIAE : "You can sit right here, and this is a chair for your bag."

The man gave me a separate chair for the bag! Five minutes later, he told me I got the position.

And this, children, is an important lesson on how accessories can lead to more fruitful lives.

Sign from the Heavens

2006-04-24T22:05:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago I fawned over Anna Mariya Urazhevskaya and her gloriousness. And now, she's on the cover of Paris Vogue.

This is a clear cut sign that Anna Wintour should resign, and that I should become American Vogue's editor in chief.

Rebecca Minkoff sold her soul to Anthropologie

2006-04-22T05:40:00.000-07:00

Just kidding. Anthropologie isn't that bad. But remember this Rebecca Minkoff bag I showcased a few weeks ago? It's called "The Morning After" and I was completely in love with it:And now for Anthropologie's "High Stakes" bag:
Très intéressant.

Madrid es Bueno

2006-04-20T15:50:00.000-07:00

What's more impressive than Pasarela Barcelona is Pasarela Cibeles of Madrid. Ailanto is a fashion headed by two wonderful young designers, Iñaki y Aitor, of País Vasco.

I love fall colors...

Cibeles

2006-04-16T19:31:00.000-07:00

You know what puts Russian Fashion Week to shame? Cibeles Fashion Week in Madrid. The Spaniards have the right amount of wit and imagination without going into crazy Russian knit territory. Beautiful tailoring and very wearable ready-to-wear. After pouring over vogue.es, these are a few of my personal favorites:

Jesus del Pozo

Jose MiróJavier Larrainzar

Carmen March
(I told you knee-high nylons were in!)

Antonio Pernas

Devota & Lomba

DavidelfínElio Berhanyer
(Gorgeous, gorgeous fur)

I'm looking through Pasarella Gaudi from Barcelona tomorrow. It'll be my carrot after a long day.

Louis, Louis

2006-04-15T21:38:00.000-07:00

I don't really like Louis Vuitton's monograms... it's so overdone and imitated by everyone. Does anyone actually think they are attractive, or is it just a status symbol?
Well, I actually took a liking to some of the non-monogrammed bags for Spring-Summer 2006. The Onatah GM is very sweet and simple.And how cute is this little guy? His name is Antigua Sac Week-end... The Figari MM is perfect for the office:I'm glad MJ came over to LV. This is just the beginning.

Orgasmic Mouret

2006-04-14T21:38:00.000-07:00

Whenever I see anything by Roland Mouret, I have a mini-orgasm...And now, I just discovered his "Rough Jewellery":
The black octagonal long chain earring on the left is my favorite! It's 4.35 carat black octagonal diamond with a facetted white gold chain. I think I know what I want for my birthday.

(photos from http://www.rolandmouretshowroom.co.uk/)

RFW Update

2006-04-12T17:39:00.000-07:00

Here are some more picks from Russian Fashion Week:
Konstant in Gayday (umm.... only in Russia) -
Furland (DSquared2 in Russia with fur, no?) -
SADO (Actually very refined...) -

Two Gun Towers (The D&G of Russia) -
Chistova&Endourova (The black pulled down footless nylons really do it for me) -(photos from rfw.ru)

Two favorite people

2006-04-12T08:35:00.000-07:00

I just adore Lindsay and Kate. Especially together at a CK event. And Lindsay looks absolutely fabulous... love the hair and the bod.
(photo from style.com)

New?

2006-04-10T23:10:00.000-07:00

Maybe I'm just wayyyy behind... but I just found this blog and it is amazing. Words cannot describe: http://missdiorcouture.souliss.com/

And I am in love with Susan Cianciolo

2006-04-10T13:58:00.000-07:00

She has been under the radar for the past few years, but Susan Cianciolo, designer and artist, just popped on the the Sartorialist's website. I was first attracted to her by her designs, like this dress available on yoox.com:

And now, I've taken quite the liking to her drawings and installations.

Her line is called "Run Collection" and you can find more of her work at the Art Fiend Foundation, 123 Ludlow Street, NYC.
(photos from neomoda.com)

Lovin' Irina

2006-04-10T00:06:00.000-07:00

My love affair with Irina Lazareanu's look continues. She's unique without scaring me (which many 'it' models of the moment do). And now she is the star of Anna Molinari's ads shot by Meisel.More pictures are available from Molinari's website: http://www.blufin.it/

(photo from herfamedgoodlooks.com)

Love sporty Stella

2006-04-09T07:40:00.000-07:00

So I know I tore Stella McCartney's Fall '06 line to shreds (despite the fact that fact that it was one of the top 10 editor's picks for W... odd), but her line for Adidas is too cute. It actually inspires me to go work out - which is rather surprising.
From awful denim:

To sporty fun: The black Nimitta running shoes are sleek:

And I love this gym/running outfit:

Not to even mention how fabulous the tennis line is. Check out Adidas' website for more Stella: Stella for Adidas.

Stella has officially regained my trust and admiration.

(pictures from style.com and adidas.com)

Again, with the knitwear!

2006-04-07T06:55:00.000-07:00

Oh, Russian Fashion Week, you deceive me by including the word 'fashion' in your name. So, this number by Leonid Alexeev isn't so bad:
Right... Well, everything else is a knitwear layering catastrophe.What the hell is that? I mean, it's a very interesting look, to say, be captured by the Sartorialist on the street... but it's not something you show on a runway as one of your looks for Fall 2006. Actually, no, this outfit would be torn to shreds by any dignified person.
This is sad. I don't like being mean to RFW.
(photos from FashionPlace.ru)

Skinny Jeans, Part II

2006-04-04T22:36:00.000-07:00

Ooooh, speaking of which... look what I just found on Fashion Addict Diary: http://www.cosmictap.com/2006/04/the_haunting_myth_of.html.
Maybe this is what my professor was getting at?
Although, I do disagree with FAD about skinny jeans (re: FAD). They are not out quite yet because not everybody can wear them. It's not a peasant skirt or, god forbid, Uggs. It's a fashion that is available exclusively to the ultra skinny, and therefore cannot be worn by 99.5% of the population in the Midwest. Yes, yes, London has been doing the skinny jean since 2003, but this is America and we are about 3 years behind on everything. Big surprise.

Old News with an Odd Little Twist

2006-04-04T22:14:00.000-07:00

I realize that skinny jeans are old news... it's just that in my nutrition lecture, my professor happened to be talking about healthy body weight, etc, etc... and then she busts out pictures of celebrities in skinny jeans. And you think you know what she says, right?
WRONG! She starts talking about how fabulous they look, and how society is so preoccupied with calling everyone anorexic that we are missing "great shapes". I think her whole point was that everybody's weight is different and some people happen to be naturally thin. But I was too busy glaring at the tiny little thighs to pay attention to what she was saying. God, I love that woman. Anyway, here are some of the skinny jeans she showed:

Okay, Lindsay wasn't actually on there... but I love her too much.
I'm so glad it's starting to warm up! I'm shopping this weekend, and I can just smelllll the skinny jeans coming.

(pictures from sky.com)

I'm jealous of myself

2006-04-02T23:27:00.000-07:00

I just got the most fabulous vintage dress. It's a 60s silk organza shift dress in a very, very pale pea green. Perfectly fitted with a sash around the waist and adorable side pockets. A girlfriend's wedding is coming up in June, and this is absolutely perfect. And I love the fact that nobody else will have it... that's what us economists like to call the "snob effect". Hopefully I'll get better pictures of it soon!
Like my knee-highs, by the way? They are my new favorite accessory.

Poor Naomi

2006-03-31T12:32:00.000-08:00

I feel sorry for Naomi Campbell. I bet people clamour to become her assistant just so they can sue her later. If you got me mad enough and tried to instigate a fight, I would probably chuck a cell phone at you, as well.

Russian Fashion Week

2006-03-31T07:06:00.000-08:00

RFW is upon us. It's time to pick favorites from the Spring collections and impatiently anticipate next season's stars.
That was a slightly overdone statement. I like to support RFW, I like to see the new collections, but I often miss the point. Generally, the designs are uninspired and there is no true 'fashion', more 'stylized looks'. And all the knitwear! Why so much knitwear? Yes, it's cold in many parts of the country, but it's Spring! Maybe that's why most nouveau-riche Russians wear Dolce and Gabbana.

1. Shevchenko 2. Brovkina
3. Kusso

4. Sokolova & Bogordskaya
Fingers crossed for RFW Fall06.

Wherefore art thou, perfect little flat?

2006-03-30T22:01:00.000-08:00

You would think that with a Spring season devoted to skimmers and ballerinas it would be very easy to find the perfect little flat... alas, my search has proved rather fruitless. I mean, all I want is a simple pointy leather flat. No added details, no velvet rouching, and please, no sparkly ornaments. I truly detest the rounded toe because, honestly, if you are older than 9 years old, are not a cute little Asian, or are taller than 5'4", you really should not be wearing them. Frankly, you look like you're wearing your little sister's mary janes.
I found a very simple Steve Madden skimmer, but they are just so cheap and uncomfortable. Doesn't that just defeat the purpose of a flat? That's the whole point of a flat... they are meant to be happy medium between high heel and gym shoe.
And what really takes the cake is that whenever you search for flats online, you are bound to get countless hits for godforsaken kitten heels. Enough with the kitten heel! I want a FLAT!
I am, however, kind of intrigued by the Nine West peep toe...

but, again, Nine West isn't exactly high quality. I guess $70 isn't a splurge, but I want a sound investment from this baby. Another cute peep toe by Loeffler Randall (who I've been in love with lately):

But that's just not it, you know? It's not the perfect skimmer. Maybe something more urban and casual about Urban Outfitters?

I would rather die than wear these. I'm a 5'11" Russian, not a petite little Asian. I pull off Proenza Schouler, not Urban Outfitters' take on punk. And while I'm at it, let's look at a round toe that did appeal to me from Anthropologie:

An interesting combination of navy and black, a sumptuous bow, and an elongated round toe. But I would probably never wear these. Ever. In a million years.
Am I missing something? Is there a pointycuteflats.com I overlooked? Perhaps I need to take a break and come back to this fashion conundrum.

Question of the Hour

2006-03-29T22:13:00.000-08:00

I'm not sure who I'm attracted to more... Pharrell or Karolina? Hmmmmmm....

The Search for the Perfect White Bag

2006-03-29T15:16:00.000-08:00

Valentino Slouchy Bag

Nancy Gonzalez Crocodile Bag

Elliott Luca Handbag

Dolce and Gabbana's "Miss Perfect"Shopper

Celine's Hobo

Bottega Venetta's Hobo

Anthropologie's "Mizzenmast" Bag

Cheeky

2006-03-24T11:06:00.000-08:00

Check out the new Damaris collection... oh so cheeky!

And the model is too cute!!
(images from frostfrench.livejournal.com)

HOT

2006-03-22T17:17:00.000-08:00

Have you seen the new Vogue's editorial with Karolina Kurkova and Pharrell Williams? Sooooo sexy. I'll post pictures soon.

More Theory News

2006-03-20T20:19:00.000-08:00

What is there to NOT love about the company Theory? And it just bought Helmut Lang! I think this will definitely spruce up the dying minimalist 90s label. I mean, now with Jil Sander and others slowly wasting away, who else but booming Theory is there to keep smart, sophisticated, and beautiful clothing on the market?

What to buy next...

2006-03-18T22:28:00.000-08:00

Well, I don't even know where to begin with Theory. I just bought the perfect "Aina" LBD... It's such a soft raw silk... to die for! And now I really want the cute Avila bubble skirt... Oh, but I forgot. My lover from last fall, the amazing Dior crocodile embossed boots...

... have evolved into the Spring Loeffler Randall Matilde Boot:Yummmm.

Favorites for the Season

2006-03-17T13:44:00.000-08:00

I've always been partial to Daria, but after the Fall06 runways, my two new favorite models...
Mariacarla Boscono... rocks the blond pixie. And she's so quirky! I love her little interviews with Style.com and how brazen she is.
Irina Lazareanu... rocks the bangs.
(photos from style.com)

I'm excited for fall 2006 because of...

2006-03-14T08:04:00.000-08:00

Contrasting gloves!

Nina Ricci

Yves Saint Laurent

DSquared2

Style.com Podcats

2006-03-12T01:07:00.000-08:00

More than slightly obsessed with Style.com's fantastic decision to go Apple. Their podcasts are to die for.

Lingerie is supposed to come off, baby.

2006-03-08T22:01:00.000-08:00

Wow, wow, wow! And that is not an exclamation of happiness. Chloe? CHLOE? What? How did that happen?
Santino, the most creative and brilliant designer of the entire Project Runway season, wasn't even runner up. His dresses were gorgeous, refined, and full of life. Yes, it was more elegant and toned down from the usual Santino extravagance, but what is wrong with that? Chloe, on other hand, I mean, it was like a horrible shiny satin 80s bitch explosion. I would have even been okay with Daniel winning, just because he does have talent... but, let's face it, it should have been Santino.
Yes, I understand that everyone has issues with the man. But, COME ON, he's a fucking genius. And he is truly passionate about his work. Unlike Chloe. Who probably never even wanted to win... And it shows:

And the beautiful Santino...

What an upsetting evening.

Santino, darling, I have so much faith in you and your designs. Maybe it's best that you didn't win this fashion design mockery. I mean, you really don't need team Banana Republic "mentoring" you... fuck, you need to mentor them. I love you, Santino.

I guess plaid really isn't so bad

2006-03-04T21:41:00.000-08:00

I used to hate plaid. It's dated, unsophisticated, and heavy. But given the new season's love affair with the pattern, plaid, in moderation and in excess, works. Its depth adds another dimension to volumous silhouttes, while its coquettish school girl charm lightens up even the heaviest undertones of fall.

Burberry Prorsum

Alexander McQueen

Balenciaga

Kenzo

Michael Kors
Christian Lacroix
Marc Jacobs

The Horror, the Horror

2006-03-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

What happened to my sweet, sweet Stella? Why did she decide to take a plunge into bad memories of 80s suburban Saturday attire? Is this a bad dream?

I think I'm going to be sick. Why, Stella? Why?

Furrrrrrr, baby

2006-03-01T22:53:00.000-08:00

Maybe I wouldn't mind the cold as much if I were wrapped up in...

Viktor & Rolf

Givenchy

Costume National

J. Mendel

Jean Paul Gaultier

Andrew Gn is my fur god

Anna Sui

March 1st

2006-02-28T22:11:00.000-08:00

This is my official beginning of Spring. I don't care what the groundhog saw or didn't see, I don't care if the sidewalks are still frozen. February, the cruelest month of the year, is finally over.

Dolce & Gabbana

Elie Saab

Thakoon

Anna Sui

Chanel

Finally!

2006-02-27T22:59:00.000-08:00

It's due time Tom Ford opened his own store. Partnered up with Ermenegildo Zegna in New York (obviously), it will offer menswear exclusively. Perhaps a women's collection is not too far off in the horizon? A girl can only dream.

Botkier and Kooba are very last week

2006-02-26T14:44:00.000-08:00

Rebecca Minkoff... now that's a bag.

"The Grace" - Reminds me of Jen Aniston's bag in "Rumor has it..."

"The Morning After" - I'm not sure what's cuter, the name or the bag.

My name is DSquared, and I'm precious

2006-02-24T20:44:00.000-08:00

I don't care what Sarah Mower says. DSquared's Fall Collection is lucious, cheeky, and bright - the perfect contradition to this fall's gloomy 80s chic.

Who else is in love with this cut?

2006-02-22T20:52:00.000-08:00

Daria as the Argentinian seductress in American Vogue, March 2006

The Quintessential Penn

2006-02-21T22:13:00.000-08:00

With grandeur and a strong silhouette, Irving Penn delivers
Balenciaga's poignant image.

American Vogue, March 2006

American Vogue's "The Waist Land"

2006-02-21T14:55:00.000-08:00

While Carmen is the epitome of a Hitchcock siren, Steven Klein portrays chic skirts and dainty blouses in an Americana-style editorial for March's American Vogue.