Secret Society of Fashionistas

Royal Wedding Update

2011-04-29T20:20:00.009-04:00

I must admit, the initial coverage of the Royal Wedding had me feeling somewhat apathetic. I did not want to write about it. Here was the story as I saw it: a couple meets at college, they live together for a while, then decide to marry. Here were my three words to describe the arrangement: big friggin' deal. Nonetheless, I just reviewed the sartorial coverage of the wedding, and I must admit it has me titillated. The British love of hats never fails to amaze me, and Kate's dress was nothing short of a-MAZ-ing. Below are some of my favorite looks from the event with commentary. All pictures from Getty Images.

Although some objected to her wearing black, I find Victoria Beckham to be very chic, and I love her hat by Phillip Treacy.

Prince Andrew and Daughters.

Tara Palmer-Tomkinson in another amazing ensemble.

And my opinion on Kate's dress? Absolutely perfect. It just represented everything a Royal Dress should be. It exuded class. It was refined and elegant. I loved the simplicity of the skirt, the weight of the train. Her veil framed her face beautifully. It was exquisitely made. It looked unusual and traditional all at once. To learn more about the dress's construction I highly recommend checking out this post from NYmag.

Although most fashion insiders agreed that her dress was 'da bomb', apparently not everyone agrees. For example, here's what Daniel Orszewski, a 31 year old head of styling for Top Shop, had to say during his conversation with "The Times" Christine Haughney:

(He)...leaned back in his booth at G-A-Y Bar, sipped champagne and expressed his concerns about Ms. Middleton's fashion choice saying that the dress was too plain. "I thought Pippa looked better," he said while dressed in a tight black Union Jack t-shirt.

Hmm...black Union Jack t-shirt? Royal lession number one Kate: you can't please everybody.

Video On My Mind

2011-04-18T14:01:00.003-04:00

Admittedly late to the trend but can't get enough of Rihanna's "Rude Boy".

Two Must See Exhibits: Sonia Delauney and Sheila Hicks

2011-04-09T10:57:00.008-04:00

There are two current exhibits, both artists who work at that intersection of art, fashion, and textiles that I am interested in. I hope to draw inspiration from both of them for my own current projects that I am developing.

Sheila Hicks pictured at the installation of her exhibit in Philly. Photo from NyTimes.

The first is Sheila Hicks, showing in Philly at the Institute of Contemporary Art. Here the artist is exhibiting 50 years of her work. Her work seamlessly merges the disciplines of art, design, and crafts. She works with objects as unconventional as toothpicks, razor-clam shells, rubber bands and hair. According the New York Times it was a picture of Peruvian mummy bundles that ignited Ms. Hicks’s interest in textiles. Later, she studied under Josef Albers (of Bauhaus fame). When took her home to meet his wife, Anni, the renown Bauhaus weaver, her focus on what became her lives work was cemented. I find her work to unbelievably mysterious and beautiful.

Sheila Hicks from an excerpt I found on the web in Wallpaper magazine.

Another artist who dappled in textiles has an exhibit that I am pining to see is Sonia Delauney at Cooper Hewitt. She is another artist who crossed boundaries. From goauche paintings, to textiles, to clothing created by her own atelier she was a veritable 1920's fashion sensation. Her exhibit is oddly prescient considering all the art deco motifs on current runways. I think the series of pictures below show beautifully how she could create a gouache painting, then turn that into a textile, which would later be created into a garment.

Photo from Cooper Hewitt site.

Coat made for Gloria Swanson by Sonia Deluaney, photo from Cooper Hewitt site.

Model wearing swimsuit made by Sonia Delauney, also from the Cooper Hewitt website, see link above.

It Aint Easy Being Green

2011-03-16T10:12:00.008-04:00

Color Inspiration from today's NPR

Galliano Show Ends With A Bow From the Atelier

2011-03-09T11:22:00.022-05:00

Consider It A Coup Of The Artisans

One of the few good things that now disgraced designer John Galliano has brought to the forefront is the importance of the petites mains, the people who physically create the clothes in an atelier. They are an integral, but usually hidden, part of the fashion presentations each season. When it was decided it was they rather than he who should take a bow at the end of his Fall 2011 presentation last week it may have marked the first time in fashion that this important group of people were applauded post-show.

This is important to note since it ties in with an an emergence of an era where the artisan (as in the person who makes the object) is just as important as the designer. It also ties with foodie culture, where there has been a similar shift. Educated consumers now want closer ties to their producer in almost all areas of production. This consumer wants to consume a more individualized, ethically source object. Constantly in fashion I see the following words repeated: artisan, artisan details, family-owned and produced, hand-made. The "hands" that produce the designs are now just as important as the person who conceptualizes the project.

Some designers following suit with this model are Osborn Design , Edith E. Miller t-shirts, and Suno Clothing. These designers, among other things, are emphasizing the hand-made, and making an attempt to connect with local economies through their design work. For example, at Osborn design their mission is "to do good with design". One way they accomplish that is by teaming with local artisans in Guatemala to manufacture their shoes. To quote their website "Each shoe is signed by its maker, as a testament to the sense of pride for the maker, as well as its wearer." Osborn is stating themselves that knowing who makes their objects is obviously should be a source of pride to their end consumer. Their business model also connects the consumer with the source of their product.

Also, there is Edith E. Miller t-shirts, who makes tees from a family-owned factory in Pennsylvania, and designer Logan Neitzal who proudly hand-stitches each of the leather pieces in eponymous line himself. The line Suno has been developing an atelier in a remote area of Kenya, and working with communities in India. The examples are countless, and they mark the next wave of ambitious young designers slated to influence fashion. I also see a correlation with the continued success of Etsy, the one of the first purveyors of "handmade goods". They were one of the originals who emphasized knowing who is producing the products you buy.

Photo of shoe from Osborn Design, from Osborn Design website

Each Osborn shoe is signed by its maker. Photo from thefeast.com, shopping.

There is also a relationship with foodie culture. Here "artisanal" and "locally grown" have been used long before fashion began to catch on. It is a parallel movement. For proof of the connection look no further the burgeoning movement of young, small scale farmers setting up shop in Oregon. You can read more where this is chronicled in this NYTimes article. There it explains how for the first time in a generation young people picking up a hoe and choosing farming as an occupation. These people are rejecting the paradigms of factory farming and embracing the philosophies of punk-rock and Karl Marx instead. The new wave of farm production is now small scale and local, with an emphasis on knowing your producer. Farming and clothing production are not two disparate movements, but rather both enterprises emphasizing the importance of knowing your producer. It is the future of how we as Americans approach consumption.

Photo of Mary's Grange Hall, center of social life for young farmers in Oregon, picture Leah Nash for the NyTimes.

These businesses all serve as alternative models to large-scale production, and reflect the future of fashion. Who is going to replace Galliano? No one knows, but one can be sure it will continue to be the artisans in his atelier doing much of the work.

Fall 2011 Shows: More Art Deco and Snakeskin Than You Can Shake A Stick At

2011-03-07T09:51:00.021-05:00

I was entering into the fashion doldrums after viewing the Fall 2011 collections. Most of the shows left me feeling bored or utterly disinterested. Either there no new ideas (the 70's again, lots of orange, minimalism to dull effect) OR the collection was too conceptual and not wearable. I love me a good concept or two, but...this is fashion. What good is your idea if one doesn't desire to wear it? After a bit of this I clicked on Hermes, and after that my faith in the power of fashion was restored. At Hermes, look after look sauntered down the catwalk and headed straight into my imagination. Although according to Style.com the inspirations were said to be Asian, with notions of travel, long robes, jade jewelry, etc, I couldn't see anything except 20's art deco from where I was sitting. This is an era I feel is finally getting it's longstanding due in fashion this season. Favorite looks from this collection posted below. All photos in this post from Style.com.

The biggest trends on runways this season were the masculine feminine mix, Asia, and snakeskin. Religious garb seems to have evolved from Celine'sminimalism, just ask Alber Elbaz at Lanvin, who referenced the priesthood in his collection, especially with his hats:

Alber Elbaz preps his models for the priesthood at Lanvin.

Ralph Lauren referenced China for his collection. He was one of many designers with references to Asia.

I loved Missoni's use of snakeskin.

Said or unsaid in the liner notes, the influence of 20's drop waist silhouettes and art deco style geometric prints, were everywhere:

Marni: No Waist, Geometric Print, don't tell me there is not a 20's influence.

Prada, of course, scored the fashion double whammy with Art Deco and snakeskin.

Versus by Versace proves it's still hip to be square

Also of interest is a return to a certain type of formality, pulled together, perfectly matched, prim and proper, suits. Maybe old lady, yes, but I love it. As far as new ideas, this old one seems as fresh to me as ideas go. Both Donna Karan with her Grace Kelly inspired collection and Jean Paul Gaultier totally seemed to understand this. I felt as if it was a reference to an old-fashioned sort of glam that I would like to see returned to fashion. How far can we take this era of casual dress, jeans and t-shirts?

It was go granny go at Jean Paul Gaultier.

And lets not forget Stella McCartney, who reinvents power dressing with her version of the masculine/feminine mix:

Stella truly gave us the bold shoulder. I love the strong but at the same time soft silhouettes she created.

All in all after show after show referencing the 1970's fashion we finally did find some fresh, new ideas in the mix. The trends I am most excited about are the snake, the geometric prints, and hints of Asia. I can't wait to see these items referenced for the market next season.

Totally Bananas For Bush

2011-03-02T10:40:00.016-05:00

Kate Bush that is. And she totally innovated the fruit-as-fashion trend way before Prada.

I recently watched Kate Bush's "The Line, The Cross, & The Curve" and and can't get over the prescience of Kate Bush. Those of you who aren't familiar with Kate Bush's short film it is basically an extended video in which a frustrated singer dancer is enticed by Miranda Richardson's character to wear her red shoes. The shoes then take on a life of their own, and take Kate on a wild journey. There are many fashion "yes" moments through out the video, starting below with these stills that capture the mystery of the red shoes:

Excerpt from opening song Rubberband Girl below. It's very cool and 80's, I love the work out wear on Kate and the cool band in the back. Definitely play and listen to as you read the rest of my post:

Her final scene, African Dancers amongst luscious fruit, predicates the fruit-as-fashion trend seen on Spring 2011 runways. Not bad for a video Kate later called "a load of bollocks " according to Tom Doyle's 2005 article in the Guardian. Although lo-fi, I found the video to be a weird and wonderful expression for her music and love this scene. It's admittedly a bit wacky, but the colors are sensational. The mix of the graphic fruit with African textiles make for a bold visual choice. And needless to say I love the print on her dress:

And if you think you couldn't interpret this into high fashion, Prada proves you wrong:

Kate Bush is such a genius seamlessly combines dance, music, and fashion and film into a unforgettable experience and is clearly years ahead of her time.

It's Oscar Night, And I'm Feelin' Right...

2011-03-01T22:23:00.005-05:00

It's Oscar season again, and stars strive to get it all right on the red carpet. The two biggest trends were the copius use of red and a move towards more pared down, simple silouettes.

Jennifer Lawrence in the epitome of simple elegance in Calvin Klein. Photo from Hollywood.Chicago.com.

Anne Hathaway in Valentino, a dress said by many to be her best of many costume changes.

Sandra Bullock stuns in Vera Wang, photo from Flypaper.Bluefly

Favorites were:

Cate Blanchett is stunning in Givenchy, from possibly one of my favorite couture collections of the season. Photo from Glamour.com

Gwen keeps it clean in custom Calvin Klein, photo from Racked.Com

Hands down my favorite. Florence from Florence and the Machine in Valentino. Stunning color, class, elegance and sex appeal all in one package. Photo from Rubyeyedokapi.com.

Backstage At Jason Wu

2011-02-13T17:24:00.005-05:00

My source reported a profusion of hand embroidery and hand stitched lace backstage at Jason Wu this season. Each piece for Fall 2011 contained intricate details. Pictures above are backstage shots with Jourdan Dunn and Karlie Kloss, a picture of the model card, and a shot of the lace head pieces worn in the show. Thanks so much to my source, who I haven't named to protect his privacy. What a great glimpse into the behind the scenes stuff that make these shows so great!

Belly Dancing at Honey Exhibition Opening

2011-02-12T08:40:00.011-05:00

Even the belly dancer is into pink

At the Honey Exhibition opening at Liloeve gallery on Grand Street this weekend and saw some amazing works. The gallery was small and intimate, and tinged with an air of exotica. Candles burned and orchid displays perched in the corners gave the gallery an almost jungley sorta vibe. The exhibit included well curated work from some of my favorite designers (including Lara Kurtzman and Skye Phaebl) as well as other fine artists. As I am a fan when all the arts combine I was especially excited to see this belly dancer there. It was an unexpected surprise, and the way she managed to writhe, contort, and shake her body in time to the music was a splendid sight. I especially loved the crescendo at the end with candles on her head (lower picture). And what color did she choose to wear? Why, pink of course!

Life Has Been Coming Up Roses

2011-02-09T17:54:00.015-05:00

So you can start to think in pink.

Just in time for Valentines day magazines covers barrage us with pink and I kind of love it. Never has the taupey shades of pink out there on the market felt more right. After a recession full of beige this feminine color provides a sweet relief. Among the covers that featured pink details were Art News, House Beautiful, and Lucky.

The obsession with pink may have started when Pantone announce their color of the year, honeysuckle pink. Observe Swatch #18-2121:

This time I agree that this is a color with momentum, unlike last year when they selected turquoise (yikes).

Pink has been inspiring me too. Some Pink things that have gotten my juices flowing lately:

This photo of a bedouin Girl from NPR slide show

Slumber #3, 2009-2010, by Zhang Xiaogang

And... is it ridiculous to feel inspired by nail-polish?

Lovin' Royal Flush Blush by OPI. Go to "try on this color" on the website so you can see how the shade will look on your hand.

Interview With Andrew Jeffrey Wright

2011-01-31T19:39:00.014-05:00

Tees That Are Just Too Good

Rose Luardo and Crystal Kovacs model t-shirts here, and embody how Andrew would look if only he was a girl.

I was so excited when I saw artist Andrew Jeffrey Wright's most recent art project, hilarious and wearable t-shirts, replete with one of the most awesome photo shoots I've seen in a while. with fellow artists Crystal Kovacs and Rose Luardo. I am always watching how fashion and art combine and this is a great example. In the spirit of full disclosure I must admit I know Andrew personally, and have been an admirer for a long time. I used to live with his girlfriend, and during visits I would often be there to say good bye as he left. One morning as he was leaving I noticed he was wearing bright red parachute pants with a matching red t-shirt.

It was blazing hot that day, and in the sunshine the outfit turned into one of the brightest florescent reds I have ever seen. He proceeded to ride off (via bike) through one of the most notorious ghettos in Philadelphia. Most people may think riding through a ghetto completely aglow in florescent red parachute pants is a bad idea, but Andrew did not. I'm sure made it home unscathed based on his good looks alone. A few years later I saw Penelope Cruz wearing almost the same outfit. Believe me when I say it: this guy is legions ahead of his time. He's also a killer d.j. and can out dance any fool. I encourage you to check out any of his current projects if you are prepared to be delighted and amazed. I was privileged enough to get this short interview with him. Read below:

I love these t-shirts. What inspired you to create wearable art?
I've been screen printing my own t-shirts since I was in high school. My art takes form in a lot of different ways. Sometimes I make a painting that would also be interesting as something you wear. It's like having the t-shirt version of a play or band or movie you like, but the t-shirt is also an end and it's own piece of art. You don't have to know the shirt image is also a painting. I also make shirts that only work as shirts. That is usually my favorite type of t-shirt to make, one that makes sense only as a t-shirt. Like if t-shirts didn't exist the concept could not be communicated effectively.

How are they made? Do you screen them yourself? How much time does the process take (from concept to creation)?
The shirts I sell on store1026.com are all designed and screen printed by me. I don't know how long it takes to create a t-shirt. I've never timed it. The amount of time does vary with each design. When I print them I usually have an intern help me to cut down on printing time.

The photos I saw on Facebook look amazing! I love how you got Rose (Luardo) and Crystal (Kovacs) to model for you (also members of 1026, right?). Would you say they both act as your muse? How does that play into the art you create?
I'm glad you you like the shirts. Crystal is a Space 1026 member and Rose is part of the friends and family contingent. Rose has been around 1026 since near the beginning. I would definitely say Crystal and Rose both act as my muse. I love the art that comes out of both of them and I love making stuff with them. Rose and I perform and make videos together as The New Dreamz (www.thenewdreamz.com) and we host Comedy Dreamz (http://comedydreamzzz.blogspot.com/) together which is a comedy night in Philly that has a dance crew called Body Dreamz and Crystal dances in that crew. Crystal and I also draw and have art shows together among other things. I really enjoyed making the t-shirt photos with Rose and Crystal. Modeling is performing, it's putting on a show. Rose and Crystal look like what I would want to look like if I was a girl.
I know you do comedy as well. How is that going? What other projects are next for you, comedy or otherwise? Any upcoming events you want to plug while we're at it?
Comedy is fun. I have opened up on tour for Man Man, Sweatheart and Narwhalz of Sound. I opened for Lighting Bolt and Rose and I have opened for Fred Armisen. It is so much fun. Comedy become a part of my art output a few years back and now it is as important to me as making zines and drawing and painting. I have my first solo LA art show coming up in June at THIS LA (http://thislosangeles.com/). The show will be titled DOWN FOR WHATEVER FOREVER. When I am out there Rose and I are going to do a mini LA comedy tour.

Where are t-shirts sold? How can my readers get their hands on them?
The best way to get them is this link: http://www.store1026.com/collections/andrew-jeffrey-wright Thanks!

No--thank you Andrew! ;)

2011-01-31T09:55:00.005-05:00

Ok, so I know it's corny to admit that you like butterflies, but I'm corny and admitting it. Any-hoo, felt really inspired by this photo on NPR so I created this color story, replete with Pantone chips. You can go and appreciate in secret, I won't tell anyone you were looking at butterflies.

Rodarte For Black Swan

2011-01-27T15:04:00.004-05:00

I was impressed with the visual aspect of the costumes for Black Swan, and I am now even more impressed with the workmanship. Here is a video I found on New York Times today detailing the work Rodarte did on the costumes, which were all made by hand. Where ever do they find the time to create such beauty?

Spring 2011 Couture: The Recession Is Over and Dior Brings the New Look Back!

2011-01-26T15:25:00.022-05:00

Even though it's not the end of a war, as when Dior created the new look, reports do recently say the recession is over. Galliano reacted by ending our own self-imposed austerity and creating full, vivacious looks for the runway. Galliano sent models swishing down in miles of tulle said to be representantive of the work of René Gruau, Christian Dior's original illustrator. Ahhh, yes, Spring is in the air. I can feel it now, in the breeze from the rustle of the layers and layers of floaty chiffon Galliano used on the runways. See a typical example, below:

Christian Dior by John Galliano, photo Style.Com

And Accessories...It's A Cinch:
And the accessory du jour? While many designers dared this season to send models down the runway with nary an accessory in sight (except for shoes, of course), the belt seemed to shift to center stage for those who dared to be different. Waists continue to be accentuated this season, and the belt provides no better way to do this. Definitely a trend I see reflected in RTW. I love the juxtaosition of something considered to be casual worked into couture. Observe below:

Alexis Mabille, Style.Com

Christian Dior, Photo From Style.Com

Bouchra Jarrar, photo Style.Com

Silouette: Lets Get Wasted:

Like previous seasons, emphasis seemed to stay firmly put on the waist. Karl Lagerfeld from Chanel was one of the few designers to diverge from this idea with examples of drop waist dresses reminiscent of the 60's. This style I felt may be suggestion of styles yet to come (after all, how many seasons can one look at look after look of high-waist styles?),and I felt it to be the most refreshing. Surely more than accentuated wasted styles are out there for dresses. Examples of one of Karl's drop-waist dresses is below:

Chanel, photo from Style.Com

And the favorite designer is: Givenchy
The collection from Roberto Tisci for Givenchy literally made me gasp in delight. Frothy whites were puncuation by raver brights, bringing modernity to an otherise staid pallette. Apparently the colors were inspired by dried flowers, which I completely don't see, but hey, the collection was amazing, so who am I to judge? He was one of the only designers to diverge from the normal pallette of pastelles, red, white, and black, and I just loved the route he decided to take.

Givenchy photo from Style.Com

According to Style.com the Givenchy collection was based on Kazuo Ohno, a Japanese dancer, and robots. What an delightful combination of influences! The collection took an unbelievable amount of work, up to 6,000 hourse for one dress, and the workmanship completely paid off:

All Pictures of Givenchy, from Style.com.

Exquisite.

Prints: Smear Campaign
Prints certainly weren't a focus in the shows, but the few I saw seemed to be polka-dots and florals blurred out, fuzzed out, and out of focus. A consistent theme, see some below:

Gaultier, Picture from Style.Com

Elie Saab, picture from Style.Com

Armani Privé, picture from Style.com

Color: What's Black, White, and Red all over?
Why, Spring 2011 Couture of course. What else did you think I was going to say?
The first thing I noticed this season was the shift in color from pale make-up colors and nudes to jewels and primaries. Black has returned (just as I was begining to really, really fall for neutrals, they disapear. C'est la vie.), and red slashes of reds intespresed with virginal whites were prevalant.

See this example from Boucha Jarrar:

Photo from Style.Com

Sure, there were still whispers of the clayed down, drab pastelles of yesteryear, but the shift to primaries was evident. Here is an example of how this was excecuted at Valentino, where they used pastelles to do a slow build to a bright red:

Photos from Style.Com

And not mentioned, but great and I had to share, was the collection from Armani Privé. According to Style.com the inspiration was gemstones, but what I saw was quite an alien effect. After reading a new NPR.com article on the theory of parallel universes I felt sure Armani had visited one before creating this jewel of a collecton. A few photos from Style.com below:

I guess I must be on a Sci-Fi bender because the two collections with Sci-Fi influences (his and Givenchy) inspired me the most. His use of color is completely in line with the shift to primaries I saw repeated over and over. Also interesting was the prevalant use of leggings, here and also at Chanel and Galliano. I thought we would be moving away from this silouette, but I suppose I thought wrong. This is an excellent example of how street fashions trickle up into couture.

'Our Destiny Remains Our Choice'

2011-01-26T09:57:00.010-05:00

Obama remains as poignant as ever during State of The Union Address...

Photo of Obama during the State of the Union address from NPR.com, Brendan Smialowski/Getty Images.

It's no secret that I admire Obama and deeply respect the way he has commanded many of the hurdles during his presidency. Last night was no exception. During his State of the Union last night Obama made a number of profound statements that really spoke to me. These statements spoke of the current economic changes underfoot. According to today's New York Times one of the many things Obama did during his State of the Union was "challenge Americans to unleash their creative spirit...and come together around a common goal of outcompeting other nations..." Hell yes. It's about time someone said it.

Among all the hullaboo about jobs going to China, I can't help but think about how much we underestimate our abilities to create suitable employment for ourselves. It may not be the same types of jobs Americans have held before, but they are still respectable ways to make a living nonetheless. What I see rather than manufacturing is the emergence of the sole entrepreneur. This trend will be our comeuppance to out-compete China. While China is known for it's legions of cheap workers, it is also known for being short on innovation. This is the area where us Americans have a chance to succeed.

Photo of 2010 Bust Craftacular from Loop of the Loom blog.

This is a concept that can cross all social boundaries, classes, and education levels. You don't necessarily need a higher education to develop a skill and sell it. It can be as simple as making baked goods and using a website to advertise them. I will never argue higher education doesn't help, but I don't believe it to be necessary to succeed with this business model. This year I went to the Bust Craftacular, a one day craft fair that takes place in New York City in December, and saw many examples of this type of business model. Here, people who created things as simple as illustrated cards, soaps, and beaded jewelry sold it for a low over-head. Many folks left that day profitable. When I looked around that day I saw jobs that won't be outsourced to China.

I see the potential of employment for all if we stop focusing on what we have lost in manufacturing and learn to innovate. Instead of competition I see that more workers in China create a larger market for us to sell our products. Besides craft fairs, we almost every household now has access to the internet, our most powerful global selling tool. Obama is right, it is America's creativity that will save the day. Lets embrace the advantages globalization give us, and not what we have lost. It will be America's creativity be what that picks up the pieces of our fractured economy. I know we can do it. To quote Obama again, "Our destiny remains our choice".

2011-01-21T21:20:00.003-05:00

I had this photo sitting around for a while and created another color story with, this time with Pantone chips. Photo is from NPR.com, I unfortunately do not have the link any longer.

2011-01-19T10:10:00.003-05:00

I loved the colors of this photograph found on today's NPR.com

2011 Golden Globes

2011-01-18T12:04:00.014-05:00

Nothing makes me swoon more than beautiful actresses strutting down a red carpet in even more beautiful gowns. Overall this season the actresses made terrific chooses with gowns. Silhouettes were a bit closer to the body this season and colors followed recent runway trends with the majority of the dresses in nudes and blushes (yawn on that). Fashion editors the world over heralded the display of emerald green, there was also blues and oranges worn to great effect. Notable dresses are below with pictures and a bit of my commentary. The photos are from justjared.buzznet.com.

Catherine Zeta-Jones in Monique Lhullier. Great choice of color.

Megan Fox, I saw Transformers, and must admit I am starting to like you. Great Armani Prive dress. The fit is sophisticated, yet fresh, and I love this soft color on you.

Yvonne Strahovski in Pamela Rolland. One of a few actresses who chose blue. I love this soft grayed-down shade.

Love Katey Sagal's color choice for her custom Douglas Hannant gown.

Honorary member of the Secret Society whether she likes it or not, Tilda Swinton wore Jil Sander. Oh Tilda, you always delight and surprise. Nothing epitomizes the mood of current fashion sensibilities more than your minimalist cream and white gown. I love the play of the idea of a crisp white shirt turned into a dress. Tilda, will you marry me?

Olivia Wilde breaking the mold with one of the only full skirted skirts of the night. I love her Marchesa dress and her adventurous Christian Louboutin booties.

Nicole Kidman plays it safe in Prada sequins. I love the choice of cream as opposed to blush.

Close up of sequins. I know what you're thinking, and I, too, wish I could see that shoulder detail better.

Sorry Natalie. While I commend you for wearing the unusual and unexpected, I am not sure how I feel about your Victor and Rolf dress. That being said, tell Laura and Kate I said hi (more honorary members), and keep daring to be different. Better dress next time!

I love the color of Kyra Sedgwick's Emilio Pucci dress. I also love everything else about it, including the stunning way it accentuates her figure. Well done!

Julianne Moore wore a most controversial dress by Lanvin that I will defend to the death. I love her adventurous choice. She absolutely glows in this powerful color. The jeweled necklace balances the powerful shoulder beautifully, and I love the contrast of the jewels against the satin. It hugs her figure beautifully. My only gripe is the wrinkled skirt, which makes her look a bit disheveled, and makes you wonder if Alber Elbaz thought the dress all the way through. Still, that is the fault of the designer's fabric choice and not Julianne's.

Close up of the jeweled neckline. I still like it, even up close. And no, I don't care what you think.

I hate to rant and rave about Angeline Jolie since everyone always does, but I must say I simply loved her Atelier Versace dress. It was again refreshing to see such a powerful color against the sea of nudes. I love how she played on her sexiness in such an understated way. Although the dress offers a lot of coverage the neckline, powerful shoulders, and accented waist all play up her assets. Bravo Angie!

Scar-Jo in Elie Saab. Yawn. Getting sick of this Old Hollywood vibe she always has going on. Still, I the dress is quite pretty. I love the gentle flutter of the sleeve.

Dame Helen Mirren in Badgley Mishka. Great choice for her figure.

January Jones in Versace Atelier. Bravo for stepping out in red, the only red dress I saw that night. However, I have mixed feelings about this dress. I find the overt display of boobs a bit vulgar, but love the bandaging and fringed skirt. January, is there any way to see this dress without your boobies sticking out? Thanks. I'd appreciate that.

Color Story: Pinks And Greens From North Korea

2010-10-10T18:11:00.002-04:00

Photo From NPR.com

Paris Review: Spring 2010

2010-09-30T17:07:00.008-04:00

Oh my...I just love Paris! The energy and the lights create the perfect background to all of the fashion that happens this time of year. This Paris fashion week was no exception to its predecessors, stunning from beginning to end. Here are some snippets of the trends I picked up on:

Color

Color on the runways seems to sway between minimal or absolutely exuberant. There were no in-betweens. For Color Anne Valérie Hash is a must see. She nailed it on the head, check it out:

What can I say? Wonderful! Amazing! Tres manifique! This was by far my favorite collection. It took Phoebe Philo's phenomenal collection for Celine from two seasons ago and brought it further into fashion's current direction. It was minimal, but soft, and large on skill and craftsmanship. It was above all things how a woman is going to want to look next season. Color and cut were both right. and were simply exquisite. Please note the color focused on what was aptly described as "make-up tones" on Style.com. Powder beige, blush, and slate completed a soft, focused palette.

Now, on the exuberant end (and in this case I don't mean just color), please note the following designers:

Manish Arora

Limi Feu

Zac Posen

I questioned not just the palettes these designer chose, but their overly exaggerated shapes. Seriously? I thought the 80's had come and gone. Twice now. Designers: y'all need to quit all your clowning around. No one wants to leave the house feeling like they're heading for the circus, and that's how these girls look. I was also disappointed in Limi Feu's decision to just create a strict palette of just black and whites. When they say "austerity measure" in Europe, I don't think anyone meant to take it quite that far. Otherwise from her a strong collection.

Print

Prints were almost non-existent on the French runways. The few exceptions included bits of graphic plaids here and there, and some snippets of snakeskin by Barbara Bui (the perfect evolution from last years leopard).

Overall I felt as if the cries for beauty and subtlety (Anne Valérie Hash, Barbara Bui) were right on the mark. The party dresses (from Zac Posen, Manish Arora) had a bit too much 80's attitude which has been done so many seasons now. They felt quite passé. Those looks need to walk right of that runway and walk far far away.

In it For the Long Haul

2010-08-15T08:16:00.007-04:00

Excerpt from You Tube Video OPI and China Glaze Haul

What an interesting report on npr.com today. NPR highlighted the new and disturbing trend of "haul videos". These videos of young girls displaying what they picked up from the mall get thousands of hits a day. With all of the media outlets out there these days it is a disappointment that it's other people's purchases that are attracting viewers. And full disclosure: I was one of these girls at one time. No, I never made a video but I once thought my life could change from one new purchase.

Being a teenager is tough, and it is hard to distinguish a burgeoning interest in fashion as self expression from the constant need to consume. After all, you need to buy something in order to wear clothes. But instead of being happy with whatever I purchased I always felt as if I needed and wanted more. Wanting one shade of nail polish went to wanting ten. And perhaps I would receive much complementary attention about said nail polish, but unfortunately that type of attention doesn't earn you anything tangible.

Despite the attention I received I would be home with 10 shades of new nail polish and no radical life change. Just colored nails. You have to be realistic about what a new product can do for you. It's fun to have new things, but it's not going to change your life. This girl and her viewers have lost sight of that reality.

2010-06-12T22:54:00.006-04:00

I love this picture, and I love the color story in this. :)

Freegan Disestablishment

2010-06-12T21:15:00.009-04:00

The beautiful pictures by Greg Halpern accompany article, NyTimes

Freegan is a term for a freewheeling, dumpster diving, abandoned-house adapting band of outsiders taking advantage of the numerous items scavenged for free where ever they reside. The article Freegan Establishment from the NyTimes highlights them beautifully. It also connects a constellation of interesting trends I have noticed emerging in America lately. While we all pursue our version of the American Dream, which is usually trying to buy a house, a car, etc, the Freegans spend time doing invariably the same thing with little or no money at all. By sourcing and making the things they need they acheive the same sorts of things, but without conventional jobs.
They live richly. These particular ones live in a mansion, and gorge on an unlimited supplies of food. They live more grandly than most, rent free. These people may not live like you and me, but they are not as far on the fringes as you may think. Their lack of wastefulness, and do it yourself, craft aesthetic ties in with many contemporary ideals of do-it-yourself sustainability. Home gardening ties in with Locavore sensibilities. Their craft room is a scrapbookers dream come true.
While barrel after barrel of oil currently pours into the gulf, hopefully causing many to question the ultimate sustainability of their lifestyles, the Freegans offer an alternative. These young kids are proving just how much you can do with what others waste, show how much is possible with out money, and give us more ways to lessen our eco-footprint. Whether their alternative is viable for others is questionable, but as many struggle in a weak economy many more may start to question what we really need to get by. These Freegans may be able to show us the way.

I Am Love

2010-05-29T12:58:00.004-04:00

Photo from May 2010 InStyle

Here at the society we make no bones about loving Tilda Swinton. No one does cool-eclectic better than her. That's right, I said NOBODY. As such, I just wanted to point out that our first lady of fashion will be wearing none other than Jil Sander for her upcoming film "I Am Love". Raf Simons says in the recent InStyle magazine that the wardrobe was especially designed for Tilda's character. Color and silhouette where chosen with the thought in mind that that movie takes place in the early 2000's. Mr. Simons really wanted to reflect that, and I'm interested in seeing if he succeeds. Tilda, on behalf of fashionistas everywhere I just wanted to say: we know you are love. And we love you too.

Going Native

2010-05-23T11:49:00.008-04:00

Typical Nez Perce, 1910

Tsawatenok Girl, 1914

Nez Perce Baby, 1900

Nakoaktok Painting a Hat, 1914

Wishram Bride, 1910

I love this book I purchased by Taschen, "Native Americans". It features the photography of Edward S. Curtis. Curtis worked in the early 1900's documenting Native Americans and their respective cultures north of the Mexican border and west from the Mississippi River. What began as simply a photo project later segued into ethnographic work. I enjoyed the photos very much and encourage any interested to get the book as there were many, many more photos in it I couldn't share.

Sheer Love

2010-05-20T17:07:00.003-04:00

Besides having love affairs with Courtney Love (see below) Kate has been stepping out as of late to promote her line at Top Shop. Here she is at the Knightsbridge store opening party, as reported on in the Daily Mail. I have been telling people when there's a little bit of a nip in the air to not be afraid of hosiery. Ladies: if Kate can do it you can too! Here's the secret: keep them sheer. That way there is coverage but it is still sexy. Well done Kate.

Hands Down Beauty

2010-05-19T23:06:00.004-04:00

From the recent article on NPR about the Grand Trunk Road in Pakistan. The caption in the article states that burgundy and gold are the traditional colors for brides there. I love how every last detail including the nail polish is thought of. Spellbinding photo, and great article that I highly recommend reading.

Up-And-Coming Designer Alert: Kelacala Q

2010-05-18T15:04:00.006-04:00

I am so excited to have the following interview with Lara Kurtzman from Kelacala Q. I met Lara a few years ago through her former classmates from the Rhode Island School of Design. When you meet her, you just can't help but notice her easy but edgy sense of style. Her jewelry is definitely an extension of her personality: eclectic, fun, with an unequivocable sex appeal. The following is an excerpt from an interview I had with her the other day.

1. You have an unusual name for your jewelry line. How did you come to the name, and does it hold any special meaning for you?

Kelacala Q is an anagram using the first initials of my dad, mom, me, my sister, my grandparents and my cat Quincy.

2. Where do you start your design process, as in where and how do you find inspiration? And what have you felt inspired by as of late?

My process usually begins with a tiny little spark that ignites as a response to something, it could be anything, a unique material that I have on the "drawing table", a outfit that I put on that is missing a key element, or a shopping trip where I find an incredible piece that I'll spend weeks playing around with.

Lately I've been inspired by McQueen's final collection. His last show was so ground-breakingly futuristic that I became obsessed. I was crushed when he took his own life.

3. Where can my readers find your jewelry? Where is it sold?

Right now you can find our lines in Manhattan at Sucre and Ibiza and on Long Island we're at DeNatale and Tauk. We're also at Moda in Nashville. To see all of our collections or for weddings and custom designs, customers can visit us and shop online at www.kelacalaq.com.

4. I just did an article on American fashion icons inspired by the Costume Institutes recent exhibition. Who is an American icon who inspires you?

A list of my inspirational icons could literally go on forever but like most of my generation, I was influenced by early Madonna, Prince and Michael Jackson but for the past years I've had an obsession with Meryl Streep. It's so amazing to see someone embody and express so many human dynamics... and then there's Johnny Depp.... Oh, Johnny. Add Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin, Jim Morrison, Patti Smith... you get the idea: strong, sexy, independent, talented... a great description of the kind of people who wear Kelacala Q jewelry.

Ooh Baby Baby...

2010-05-17T08:38:00.004-04:00

From article on NPR.com, photo Michael Ochs Archives/Stringer/Getty Images

...mamacita likes. Alot. And I have seen people re-appropriating style similar to this little bit here on the streets of New York City. So maybe we'll see more looks like this in the future.

Not So Gaga For Gaga Anymore

2010-05-10T23:48:00.007-04:00

Sorry, but this isn't fashion it's just weird. It's fine to be weird, but please, lets not confuse the two. Pic from promadvice.com

I love this post from Pitchfork media where Joanna Newsom totally calls out Lady Gaga for being formulaic and disinteresting as of late. She says the following "...there's not much in her music to distinguish it from other glossy, formulaic pop. She just happens to wear slightly weirder outfits than Britney Spears. But they're not THAT weird--they're mostly just skimpy. She's fully marketing her body/sexuality; she's just doing it while wearing, like, a 'fierce' telephone hair-hat." Way to call it out Joanna Newsom! I was previously a fan of Lady Gaga, but find myself so disappointed with her lately. And the same issues that Joanna has with her music I absolutely have with her fashion sense: it's formulaic. We all know she's going to be out there somewhere clad in her skivvies with some stupid accessory. Her looks don't even seem to be related to 'fashion' any longer, just some superficial look at me cry for attention that doesn't have to do with the ideas relevant to dressing in our time. What could a telephone hat possibly have to do with current ideas, or even self-expression for that matter? When did Gaga become so out of touch?

Dressed For Success

2010-05-10T13:04:00.008-04:00

Photo from Zimbio.com

I just saw returned from the Marina Abramovic exhibit "The Artist is Present" at the MOMA. What a eloquent, moving exhibit. I just don't think words or pictures can describe it. Imagine a room. It is gray, large, spacious, airy. Sunlight streams in on this woman, who appears at first to by sitting alone in this space. She is at once diminuative and larger than life. At first all you see is her, and the room is quiet, except for a mechanical sound pounding softly from above. She sits across someone, both appearing to be deep in comtemplation. Her dress is large, similar in shape to what I would imagine someone from medieval times would wear. It has pronunced shoulders, a high neck and heavy draping, adding to the drama of the scene. Many have reported seeing this dress in many colors. This day it is cream. It adds so much to the art work. So I wonder: what is the meaning of the color she choses to wear each day? What is the significance of the chosen silhouette? Is it meant to reference a particular period in history? And why did she choose to do this particular performance clothed rather than naked? Who created the dress for her? If anyone knows, or wants to speculate, please comment!

Back Again: Vintage Shopping In NYC

2010-05-06T16:51:00.006-04:00

Picture of Edith Machinist from NyMag.com

Interesting article in the NyTimes today about prospecting for vintage finds in this city--no easy task if your experience has been anything like mine. I found their choices novel and interesting, but felt like maybe they missed out on a few top-notch choices as well. Like, what about Beacon's Closet, which can only be described as a vintage emporium. It may sound stereotypical to you New Yorkers, but c'mon....where else are you going to get such fabulousity at such prices? I've bought cashmere sweaters from TSE ($20.00) and button downs from Theory ($15.00) in addition to choice vintage picks. You can't find good quality stuff for less than that anywhere. Lets give credit where credit is due. Or how 'bout the Lower East Side? I can think of 3 great shops, right off the top of my head. For shoes I always reccommend Edith Machinist on Rivington btw Ludlow and Essex. Her taste is top level and always seems to reflect what's currently on the runway. Ellen (Ludlow btw Delancey and Rivington) is also nice for high-end accessories and sweet dresses. And Narnia (Rivington St. by Clinton) is cool too, more for a girl who wants to take a trend and run with it. Go there for your next ethnic print dress--you won't be sorry. Any other ones that I missed? Put a comment! I would love more vintage suggestions.

Avi Buffalo

2010-05-04T16:18:00.004-04:00

New Avi Buffalo video posted on Pitchfork today. I couldn't help but post some photos I took of it. You don't know how much I long to be part of this rainbow fantasy world.

American Woman

2010-04-29T11:12:00.008-04:00

Photos from Style.com

I'm really excited about the "American Woman" exhibit at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. I just can't wait to see it. I'm hoping I can squeeze it in next week. In celebration of it many publications have been doing their own take on the American woman. So far my favorites have been in Vogue, May's issue with Sarah Jessica Parker on the cover, and on Style.com. I felt the most excited over these pictures of Anna May Wong from this awesome photo-montage they had, so they are the ones I featured here. But, please, click the link here to check it out the montage for yourselves. Lots of great pics and interesting historical tidbits too. Readers, what do you think makes an iconic American woman?

Street Peeps

2010-04-28T16:47:00.012-04:00

Well, well, well, will you looky here at this scene. I happened to walk upon this in Union Square the other day. In front of me there was a mom with her little kid, to which she loudly whispered "This is called STREET ART." I'm hoping some textile artist takes a hint from this and makes me a shirt with this screen printed on it because it's just fab-u-lous! When they talk about getting rid of all the street vendors in the park I hope it's only to make room for more people doing things like this.

Attention: Do NOT Post The Following Image

2010-04-27T21:39:00.003-04:00

Offending bloggers will quickly be removed from blogosphere. You've been warned.

Photo From 'A Blog Curated By'

Or so apparently Google said earlier this week when access to Tavi Gevinson's blog Style Rookie was blocked. Crazed fans everywhere lamented the few hours they had to go without her zany style. I mean, I love the girl too, but c'mon! Doesn't everyone think this is a big ta-doo over nothing? And, I do mean on Google's part as well.

A Few Of My Favorite Things....

2010-04-27T10:28:00.006-04:00

So many bloggers do post after post (or dedicate whole blogs to!) the whole what I wish for/what I want for thing. Well, Spring is here and I'm a-wanting also. I decided to list some of the things I've been wanting for Spring:

This is from a label called Myne, which I had never seen before until we started to sell it in my store. I'm officially smitten, and want everything.

You would have to be a fool not to love the new Chanel clogs.

Anything Rachel Comey is aw'ight with me. Love the color palette she chose here. I've been especially excited over her collaboration with Anthropologie. This picture from Style.com

I think with a few of these things--or all of them--I would be set for a very cool summer.

Grace Kelly Gets Her Due at Victoria and Albert Museum

2010-04-23T10:24:00.005-04:00

If only I lived in London, because if I did I would DEFINITELY be checking out the Grace Kelly exhibit at the Victoria and Albert museum in London. I remember when I was little and couldn't relate to any of the screen sirens from decades past. They seemed like woman who would be my grandmother's role models, not mine. Grace Kelly was one of the few icons from past ages whose style felt relatable to me. I later understood that it was her classic way of dressing. It really makes her impossible to date. I think of her every time I choose a simple cashmere sweater to wear instead of a trendier item. Certain things always look good. We could all learn from her chic ways. I will have more pictures coming up soon, but for now enjoy these pictures I took of her from Hitchcock's "Rear Window".

Let Love Rule

2010-04-19T18:44:00.007-04:00

I have already written about Courtney but I can't even begin to tell you how excited I am about her impending album "Nobody's Daughter". She has always been one of my biggest fashion icons and probably is the person who single-handedly defined grunge for women. I wanted to to feature these great pictures from her from the NyTimes this weekend. I highly reccomend the accompanying article as well. She may be a train wreck, but she's our very fashionable train wreck. The photos really encapsulate her great style.

2010-04-17T18:51:00.005-04:00

Alexander McQueen's first book since his death has gone on sale. Fashionista's everywhere can now celebrate. I have a feeling this one will be a fashion must have.

Heidi Klum Debuts New Haircut

2010-04-17T18:34:00.005-04:00

Ok, stop the presses right now because Heidi Klum just got a new haircut. What do you think everyone? Because I think it's a little thick and weird. I know Heidi has good style though, so I'm going to just trust it looks cute on her and that this is a bad pic. Ok, and another note: is it just me, or does this haircut have a sort of Kate Jackson 70's vibe to it? I mean, seriously:

Yeah yeah yeah, I know Heidi's haircut has bangs and stuff, I can see that. What I am talking about is the same weirdly thick layers. Add a bit more feathering to Heidi's hair, and they could be twins. Or at least best girlfriends, stolling the mall together on a Saturday. So, maybe it's safe to conclude that designers weren't the only ones getting a certain 70's vibe as of late? Because that's what I'm seeing here. 'Nuff said.

Andrew and Rose Unleash All-American Pride Through Comedy

2010-04-13T12:58:00.012-04:00

America Doesn't Get Any Better Than This. Photo from event by Bryan Derballa . For more photos follow link below to Thirty Days Gallery.

Sometimes you feel ashamed to be an American. Between an unpopular war in Iraq and our failure to curb pollutants we are not poised to win an international popularity contest. Other times you meet people like Andrew Jeffery Wright and Rose Luardo who make you change your mind quickly. Recently they performed comedy at the Thirty Days Gallery in Tribeca. There they opened for Fred Armisen. In between corny zingers thrown at the audience by Andrew and Rose staging interruptions, I at first really didn't know what to think. Then Rose and Andrew began to pass each other homemade signs with all-American iconography on them. I felt like I finally understood what it meant to be an American. Being an American is about self-expression and fun. A favorite sign was a Hamburger holding up a hot-dog centerfold with red-white-and-blue stars blasting around it. Awesome. I started to think: thank-you. It's about time someone has made me proud.

Art Not Ad's

2010-04-12T23:23:00.008-04:00

Photo of artist Kori Newkirk's work from the article "Seeing Things: The Art of the Billboard"

"Art not ads" is a concept I've seen repeated on other blogs again and again. Many people seem to be raising the question as blogging grows and advertisers look for new ways to get their messages across. I have thought about the meaning of this in the context of my recent blogging. I mean, do advertisements serve a function? Without advertisers how would someone who wanted to write professionally get paid? And at what point does something stop being a device to get us to spend money and solely becomes a surface to engage us creatively? How important is that? It looks like others in Los Angeles have been exploring these questions as well. For 7 weeks art will be appearing on 21 billboards in Los Angeles rather than the usual ad's. It will be interesting to see how Angelino's quality of life improves. Or will it?

Just What The Doctor Ordered

2010-04-08T10:03:00.003-04:00

Has it really been 50 years for this iconic shoe? Apparently, it has been. Dr. Martens have been celebrating by commissioning covers of some classic songs from bands like the Noisettes and Cold War Kids available on its website. Go to drmartens.com to check it out. Photo from NyTimes.com

Buried In Teeth

2010-03-30T12:14:00.002-04:00

Mariee Sioux from Cat Stevens photography. I love her dress.

I can't stop listening to Mariee Sioux. She sort of does that Noveau folk thing I've been into but has a Native American flute player, making it sound sort-of haunting. Here's a track if you wanna listen. I've been into the song "Buried in Teeth". I also wanted to show her style, I feel like she has a really cool look that would be appreciated.

I also like her C.D. cover.

Mariee Sioux performing. I love her laid back California style. Found on LucyBurrows.com

Patti, How I Love Thee, Let Me Count The Ways....

2010-03-29T18:19:00.001-04:00

My personal hero Patti Smith in Christian Dior ball gown, where she was quoted as saying she loved the architecture in a great gown.

Aw, man. You never believed what I missed. It was this great article in NyTimes Style section a week ago. Something relevant like that I try to post immediately, but I didn't have time last week to read all the way to the Style section. The article focuses Patti Smith's adept eye for fashion, something I've always wanted to talk about on this here blog, but never had the chance. I saw her speak not to long ago about her recent documentary at Film Forum. I was, like, all of three rows from her and was practically hyper-ventilating. My sister, embarrassed, kept exhorting me to calm down, but I couldn't. It was Patti! She's sooo cool! Just three rows away! Seriously. That's less than the six points of separation that anyone else is. Best music, and best fashion sense, ever. How is it that a being can be possessed with so much of both?

More Fashionable Patti:

From Archive of Ephermera. Caption on bottom says "publicity photograph for Patti Smith."

Iconic. Found on the blog DK presents.

This picture of Patti from contactmusic.com. I love how she's wearing the blazer and stripes, two very current trends, and makes it Patti again with her necklace and hat.

Lasting Effect

2010-03-27T14:47:00.001-04:00

The installation view of “Eva Hesse Studiowork” at Camden Arts Centre, London. Photo NyTimes.

I absolutely love the artwork of Eva Hesse. Even though she only lived until 1970, I still find her work relevant today. The ephemeral quality of her work connects me back to thoughts about consumerism, environmental degradation, and the lasting value of things, all important discourse for today's age.

2010-03-26T12:28:00.000-04:00

I had been meaning to scan these for a while. They are from an article in Feb 2010's National Geographic called "Lost Nomads". The article touches on a peoples who do not fit in neatly to the format of modern society in India. I found the article touching and the pictures captivating.

Red Is Always a Classic

2010-03-24T19:57:00.003-04:00

What!? What was that!? I can't hear you! I'm listening to that La Roux! Okay, lemme turn it down. Oh, hey, I'm back. You know, I just can't stop listening to that La Roux. And I simply love this interview she gave at Style.Com where she talks about her look. One of my favorite parts of the interview is when she mentions how she used to have long hair, but didn't really feel as if that's who she wanted to be, so she cut it. She said the person who she is the most happy being is androgynous. I just love a girl who knows what she wants. In celebration of La Roux, one of my new faves, I decided to post what I think is her coolest video.

Color Stories: Mad Hatter

2010-03-20T11:31:00.003-04:00

Picture from "Alice in Wonderland" found on NPR.com

Are you so happy to finally see Tim Burton's remake of Alice in Wonderland? I know I am. What I am most intrigued about is seeing what type of inspiration designers will be taking from the costuming in the movie. I myself have been feeling very stimulated about the colors so far. I made this color palette inspired by this picture I found on NPR just for you, dear readers. Do with them what you wish. Tell me if they fuel any of your creative projects.

Even Better the Second Time Around

2010-03-17T12:52:00.000-04:00

M. Ward and Zooey Deschanel provide an excellent collaboration. Picture from NPR.Com

I was so excited to see the collaboration between Zooey Deschanel and M. Ward has resulted in another album: She and Him: Volume II. I've been listening to the album on NPR first listen. I encourage anyone remotely interested in music to listen. Her voice is sweet and melodic, and the arrangements are pop-confections at their very best. I assure you that in every way this pop chanteuse is one to watch.

When Bigger is Better

2010-03-14T23:48:00.000-04:00

How do you make a movie with a wonderful story line, arresting characters, and with every shot being a singularly dazzling snapshot all on it's own? Most people are challenged with just one of these artistic processes. That is a question that we have to save for Wong Kar Wei another time. It was he who directed the movie from where I got these pictures, Chungking Express. I've been finding myself awfully attracted to huge hair as of late. It often seems the more ridiculous the better, hence making this character from the movie my new heroine. All pictures from Chungking Express.

Sarah Small's Tableau Vivant

2010-03-07T10:47:00.002-05:00

Hi. I know you were worried about me 'cuz I've been gone for a while. No worries, I'm back now. Have you been wondering what I've been working on that has kept me away? Well, I'll tell you. If you look above you may notice the people with all of those crazy outfits. That is photographer Sarah Small's work, a Tableau Vivant called Delirium Constructions Part II. This was held in collaboration with Shara's Worden's event at the Tribeca YMCA last night, in celebration of Women's History Month. Shara also contributed her sublime vocals to the Tableau Vivant. Thanks Shara! See below...

First, Callie and Shara Worden enter the stage. Shara sings an operatic aria to set the mood. I'm not exaggerating when I say I saw tears come to peoples eyes when she sang. She holds Callie in a motherly fashion.

The singers stand before they exit the stage. These are the singers from Black Sea Hotel. Far left and far right you can get a feel for more of the dancers costumes.

Black Sea Hotel with their enchanting voices, Juliana Zarzycki, actress emoting to the left in green helped amplify the Tableau emotionally.

A beautiful example of the posing that was done. Tim Dax, body builder, interacts with these woman to create one story in the Tableau, and you can see one of the dancers and her incredible costume in back, yellow, and next to Tim Dax, in burgandy.

Everyone listens closely to Sarah's instructions and you can see close ups of the costuming. The Black Sea Hotel used their own costumes, bought in a village in Bulgaria.

Sarah give us all our pep-talk before entering the stage.

So, what is a Tableau Vivant you may ask? Good question, because I must have asked Sarah a million times to re-explain to me while we worked together. A Tableau Vivant is a theme used in the art world for hundreds of years, probably since the middle ages. It's basically a living picture. One example is a re-enactment of the Last Supper that takes place on Laguna Beach in CA almost every summer since 1933. Sarah uses this format to explore human interaction by grouping unexpected archetypes together to see how they and the audience react. I was the one doing the costuming for the event.

As you can see there are 15 + people in this Tableau Vivant. I know what you're thinking : Wow, that must've been a lot of work. Believe me, it was. But honestly, if you think it looks good, you can't really give just me credit. First, it was Sarah's concept. I just helped it come alive. And can I just give a special shout out to Ben and Ursula of UB Costumes and Dancewear? They are the ones who hooked me up with the amazing stuff that the dancers are wearing. That to me is what made this visually a success. So...that includes what I call the avant-garde tutu's, and leotards with sheer pants, and some easy stretch dresses. The dancers seriously looked so amazing, and their look and body language I felt really are what pushed the Tableau Vivant to it's very extremes.

I was so grateful to work with all the talented people involved with the Tableau Vivant...models, actresses, singers. Honestly, each person contributed to making a very moving experience. Thank-you everyone! And now, hopefully, with an example of the sort of visual work I can do, this can lead to more opportunities for costuming and styling work. Hit me up if you're interested!

Well Red

2010-02-25T11:11:00.000-05:00

Paul Smith

Nicole Farhi

Marios Schwab

The runway often likes to sing its own siren song, and by siren this season, I mean siren red. While New York City seemed to tilt orange last Fashion Week, and there was plenty of that in London as well, designers just couldn't seem to let go of their "primary" (tehehe) urges and use this strong, bold red in their collections. All pictures Style.com.

Sheen, Not Heard

2010-02-25T11:02:00.001-05:00

Paul Smith Women

Pringle Of Scotland

Aquascutum

Through-out the London shows I had be getting a distinct feeling that people were telling a story about texture. And in between long bouts of bouclé and teddy-bear fur I could see how designers also swung the pendulum the opposite away. Those designers wanted things so smooth, the were shiny. The shiny seemed to take things all things tasteful into more exciting territory. I say shine on designers, shine on. All pictures Style.com.

Graphic Designs

2010-02-25T10:53:00.000-05:00

Peter Pilotto

Clements Ribiero

Antonio Berardi

All these graphic pieces are going to give me writers block. What to do when everything seems pieced together into such graphic shapes? Hopefully At you can at least enjoy looking at the pictures. All pictures Style.com

Back to Nature

2010-02-24T22:28:00.000-05:00

Nathan Jenden

Marios Schwab

Erdem

Don't lie. We all know where you got this idea for your wacky biomorphic prints. We all saw Alexander McQueen's Spring 2010 show last season, and we all know it RULED. And that you can never be him. But we respect that you tried. We will assume it's just homage to a great great man and look the other way. All pictures Style.com

Return To Simplicity

2010-02-24T22:07:00.000-05:00

Antonio Berardi

Jaeger

Jonathan Saunders

There's something in the air. Think of it as a yearning for simpler times, an urge to get back to basics. With a number of designers in London and in New York exploring their roots, and simplifying color and silouette, you have to wonder. Whatever was going on the catwalks, it was an understatement. All pictures Style.com.

An Ode To Ice Dancing At Vancouver Olympics

2010-02-23T16:14:00.001-05:00

I have been so excited about seeing how much fashion plays in the figure skating in the Vancouver Winter Olympics. This was a favorite performance of mine. Here Sinead and John Kerr skate to Linkin Park's 'Krwing'. The are acting a story where the man has fallen and the woman is his saviour. I found this performance very moving. I also love how contemporary the artistic choices they made were. Sinead looked like a stunning swan in her white dress, and John made an risky choice with denim. He showed that there's really nothing you can't do in a good pair of jeans. Here's a link if you want to check it out on YouTube. I highly recommend it.

And, I would love to celebrate more good fashion in the world of ice (there's a reason why I love it!) I love how all of these athletes have used fashion to enhance their performance in their sport.:

Evan Lysacek in Vera Wang...que sexy!

Johnny Weir in Rodarte, photo New York Times magazine. Just stunning.

Let The "Real" Fashion Show Begin

2010-02-21T11:13:00.000-05:00

Backstage mayhem: a model in make-up

Carnivale came complete with some very sexy siamese twins

Anna Mccraney, looking fabulous herself

A girl saunters down the runway in a fabulous hand painted suit accesorized with a top hat and cane. And so began the theatrics that are always a part of Anna Mccraney's fashion shows. Since winning the first season of "The Fashion Show" with Issac Mizrahi, Anna was finally ready to expand her presentation. The theme this season was "Carnivale". It was pleasant to see the evolution her shows from venues with dubious logistics to proffesional runway presentation. This show was a fine example of Anna's gift for whimsy, pattern, and color. She was right in line with the most important trends from this season: the strong shoulder, crayola colored dresses, and sheer insets. If I voiced one gripe it would be that some of the items weren't a seamless fit with her Carnivale theme. There was a checked plaid, that although lovely and wearable, didn't seem to mesh with the rest of the collection. Even so, what good carnival doesn't have a few misfits in tow?

Going To Great Lengths

2010-02-18T11:39:00.001-05:00

Marc Jacobs

Erin Fetherston

Tibi

After years of subjecting us to an overdose of too much bare leg, it was refreshing to see hemlines come down a bit. I found Tibi's printed version especially fresh. The new length helped contribute to the 70's vibe in the air. All photos Style.com.

Let the Sun Shine In

2010-02-18T11:30:00.001-05:00

Zero Maria Cornejo

Marc Jacobs

BCBG

As if designers wanted to find one more way to brighten your day up, they included yellow in many of the presentations. Like the blue they used, it wasn't a color for the faint of heart. It was a brash, shocking yellow. It sometimes left models looking as if they swallowed the canary. All photos, Style.com.

Whole Lotta (Seventies) Love

2010-02-18T11:15:00.001-05:00

Erin Fetherston

Tibi

Sophie Theallet

There were enough 70's references are enough to give a person Saturday night fever. Most went for the 70's rock-star sort of vibe, but it looked as if there were references to a night at the disco in a few places as well. Maybe this explains all the velvet? All photos Style.com.

Layering It On Thick

2010-02-18T11:09:00.000-05:00

TSE

Charlotte Ronson

Michael Kors

Whatever is going to happen next fall, designers certainly aren't going to leave you out in the cold. They're telling you to pile it on, and are allowing you to look chic while doing it. Look at Michael Kors version of this trend. Only he could create a look where you're all bundled up and still looking glamourous. All photos Style.com.

Shocking Blue

2010-02-18T11:02:00.000-05:00

Donna Karan

Charlotte Ronson

Elie Tahari

After colors trending warm for so long, it was refreshing to get a whiff of some blue. And blue it was, in on of the most saturated forms imaginable. It was literally electric to view this hue again. It's been a long time coming. All photos Style.com.

Animal Instincts

2010-02-18T10:45:00.000-05:00

Elie Tahari

Donna Karan

Acne

Fur took every shape imaginable on the catwalk this season. From warrior girl tops (Karan), whimsical accent (Acne) and the ubiquitous coat (everywhere!) one may have felt like a heat of beasts had stormed the catwalk. And maybe they had. After all, aren't there many who would agree woman is the most magnificent beast of all? Listen to me roar. All photos Style.com.

Penny For Your Thoughts

2010-02-17T10:14:00.001-05:00

Devi Kroell

Elie Tahari

Fashion week brought us enough copper to make Abe Lincoln jealous. Part wearable luxury, part of a movement back to mother earth (as far as the urge designers have had to use such a range of earth tones), this color may be as stunning as it gets. Like copper does with age, I'm turning green with envy over these clothes (tehehe). All pictures style.com.

Mad For Plaids

2010-02-16T23:27:00.001-05:00

A Détacher

Jill Stuart

Chris Benz

Just when you think something is, like, so over designers come around and decide to do something. Again. So here it is, the plaid that I was thinking was so 2 years ago, the first harbinger that maybe grunge would come back, has returned. With a vengeance. Seems like everyone is mad for plaid. I especially loved Chris Benz's whimsical interpretation. All pictures style.com.

Caramel Delight

2010-02-16T23:09:00.000-05:00

Cynthia Steffe

Zero-Maria Cornejo

Adam

Mother Earth has spoken. It seems she has been whispering to designers about her dryer parts...like the Sahara. Tan was a key color on many of the runways from Cynthia Steffe, to Derek Lam, reminding me of the vast African desert. The leather that designers used so many times in this color made it speak all the more of earth. This may have been a riff on last season's Celine show, but who cares. That was one show I couldn't get enough of, so designers doing their own interpretations makes it all the more relevant. All pictures style.com.

Velvet Touch

2010-02-16T22:56:00.000-05:00

Jill Stuart

Erin Fetherston

Alexander Wang

Out of all the trends I am excited about this is the one my girlfriends have been jabbering about the most. It seems that everyone wants velvet. Designers have picked up on this and gave it many twists. My favorite interpretation may be Erin Fetherston's velvet legging. I look forward to seeing more of this versatile fabric on the market. All pictures style.com.

Color Stories

2010-02-13T12:01:00.001-05:00

Loved this photo from today's NPR.org.

2010-02-11T12:10:00.000-05:00

Wild Life

Kind Buds

Urban Decay

Many of you have been asking about the projects I've have been working on for my portfolio. Since pictures speak louder than words, I decided to post some stuff for you so you all can get an idea of what I am working on. These are concept collages that will be going along with some surface designs I've been working on. Enjoy!

The New Face Of Africa

2010-02-10T10:17:00.000-05:00

The Sapeur=modern-day urban dandy, from the Congo. Even in the face of adversity these people show their exuberance for life through what they are wearing. Bravo to them. All pictures from the book "Gentlemen Of Bacongo" by Daniele Tamagni.

Yo! Majesty Strikes Again

2010-02-07T15:35:00.000-05:00

Hot-pink latex jumpsuit=my new personal fashion-hero. I just can't stop watching this video and laughing.

Picture Pages

2010-02-05T13:28:00.000-05:00

I am so excited to check out this exhibit “Playing With Pictures: The Art of Victorian Photocollage" at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Collage is such an interesting art form. With collage you can create a result more exciting than the sum of its parts. I hope I have more interesting tidbits to share with readers after I view the exhibit. All pictures from this Friday's NY Times.

Could Someone Tell Andre Leon Talley To Shut It? Thanks.

2010-02-03T18:52:00.000-05:00

Christina Hendrick's look at 2010 SAG, Jennifer Hudson's A.L. Talley-styled look for 2007 Oscars, André Leon Talley with a typical look of his.

Recently I was insulted by some commentary from André Leon Talley. I read this commentary on "The Cut", NY magazine's fashion blog. The post mentioned his overall thoughts regarding fashion at the SAG awards. He said the following: "Enough of these choices of bad designer fashion and messy hair. Hollywood, call me! I have some tips for you." Hmmm...that's funny. Sounds like he's soliciting work. Maybe he's had a hard time finding jobs since the Jennifer Hudson mishap at the 2007 Oscars? I looked at the pictures he was commenting on and most of the people who he made disparaging comments about looked GREAT. This type of commentary makes me really offended. Additionally, I'm surprised that the fact that his past styling attempts have led to their own fashion faux pas won't stop Mr. Talley from flapping that trap of his. Like this mean comment he made about the beautiful Christina Hendricks (also pictured above):

(She)...looked like something from a bad bridal wear special on WE tv. Her red Carolina Herrera dress with a giant bow on one shoulder continued her unfortunate streak [from the Golden Globes]...My advice for this talented actress is to go to Lily et Cie for some sound advice on dressing for her body type.

Really? And what exactly advice would they give her at Lily et Cie, Mr. Talley? I hate to be repetitive, but if you haven't read my post on Lalah Hathaway's dress at the Grammies, you may not know that girls with a large bust like Christina's are the HARDEST body type to dress. Anything large enough for your boobs is huge everywhere else. Cleavage looks vulgar, but yet it's almost impossible not to show cleavage with all that breast to cover. Anything too loose all over makes you look like they might as well set you loose with the the cows to graze. Christina wore a well fitting, elegant dress in a color that was just divine. Her accessories also were right, simple and pared down. Her make-up and hair were great as well. It felt loose and free with out being fussy. So...if you can't wear a sleek dress from a well respected designer like Carolina Herrera, and have hair and make-up professionals work on every other aspect your look, what can you wear? Is there anything you can wear, Mr. Talley, with out being derided?

I also don't know why he is off the hook for dressing for his body type. All the huge fur accoutrements he's so fond of wearing just serve to make him more huge and ridiculous. So it's this whole no-one-can-do-anything-right-if-it's-not-styled-by-me-attitude I find negative. You are insulted if you don't work with this man, or are a follower that has obviously fallen prey to his cult of personality if you do. You wear an outfit chosen by the so called expert and it's placed in "worse dressed" the next day, a la Jennifer Hudson. You can't do anything right. It's people like him who give girls no space to maneuver and express personality through fashion. Attempts to do so obviously result in being torn down. It just made me so MAD. And I just think that Mr. Talley has sometimes missed the point.

Believe me ladies when I tell you this: fashion is about art, self-expression, and having fun. It's NOT what one huge, fur-mongering, fat man has forced us to wear. We serve ourselves better by not listening to man like this. Ms. Hendricks looked beautiful the other night. She looked elegant, full of class and grace. We all deserve the tools to look great. I won't let some job-seeking egotist like André Leon Talley take that away. Fashionistas, stand tall. Women: when this man makes a comment about fashion, I urge you not to listen. It's people like him who make fashion less fun.

2010 Grammies

2010-02-01T10:10:00.000-05:00

I honestly was not impressed with what I saw at the Grammies. I didn't see more than a handful of musicians who seemed to give much thought about what they were wearing. Most just looked presentable. Many either looked stiff or like they were in a stage costume. Nonetheless, I tried to highlight the best, with a little bit of commentary for each. All photos from grammy.com .

Taylor Swift always looks amazing, and dresses with a maturity way past her years. I love how sinous this dress is, it looks like a second skin. It's a great look for a lithe figure and small bust. It is also a very unusual shade of blue that is also so flattering on her skin-tone. She knows what looks good on her and dresses with grace, tastefulness, and class. She makes me proud to be an American.

Let me just begin by saying I know we all love Ri-Ri. Umbrella, great song. And she has a great fashion sense. I love how she takes risks. I give her credit for all of those things. However, that being said, I can't get past the feeling that she over-does it sometimes. Although I like this dress, I love white in the winter, I do feel as if it is a tad overwhelming on her. I just wish that she would take the scale down one notch so I could see her (she's beautiful!) as well as her dress.

Ledisi. I don't even know who this person is. Whatever her music sounds like, I can clearly see her look is perfect. I love when people do short to award ceremonies. It always comes across as slightly rebellious to me. The fit is perfect on her, it's a fun dress, I love the movement of the fabric, and I love how it shows of her shoulders and legs. I also think she accessorized it perfectly.

I love me a big girl sometimes. Seriously though, I've nothing but respect for any woman with this body type. I've been working with clothes for a long time, and big-busted gals have the hardest figure to dress. Anything that fits their boobs is too big everwhere else, if it shows to much cleavage its distracting, and it's really easy to look unbalanced or grossly overweight fast. So taking that into consideration, you can see how stunning Lalah Hathaway looks. This dress is elegant and fits her like a glove. The color makes her positively glow. Great work Lalah!

Oh Fergie. For a girl who peed her pants on stage, you sure know how to dress. Fergie has a great figure and really knows how to show it of. She's doing short and sexy, and as you know by now, I love stuff short and sweet. Great power color. I love how the strong silver line turns into a strap, and follows her body contours with out being vulgar. I also love how this dress has a sort of superhero-esque quality. What working woman today doesn't want to feel like a superhero sometimes?

Spring 2010 Couture: Chanel

2010-01-31T15:42:00.000-05:00

Favorites, and some who didn't make the cut, with commentary. From the Spring 2010 Paris couture shows. All photos from Style.com.

These were the words running through my head when I viewed the most recent Chanel collection. They're partly based on some sound bites Mr. Lagerfeld gave before the show: Karl. Silver. No gold. Lagerfeld. Pastel. Confections. Communion. Space Age. Now. Future. Old lady. Infantile. Mixed. Contradiction.

Karl Lagerfeld mixed in all the things I loved and hated about the couture shows. Something fresh and modern (tweed suits with shorts?) with old lady (again, like at Christian Dior, I thought I spied some Esmeralda hair from 101 Dalamations). Exquisite details rife in couture were abound, and I was impressed with the creativity and technique. But still, I felt like only a few of the pieces stoked my desire.

Spring 2010 Couture: Thimister

2010-01-31T14:36:00.000-05:00

Josephus Thimister couture show. All pictures of fashion shows Style.com

Absolutely loved this show. I found it to be extremely relative to the times, but also including a bit of fantasy. Exaggerated and wearable. And again, the red! It's really just enough to raise ones blood pressure. Mr. Thimister, you just may give me a heart attack with all this red. But please, give me more anyway.

Spring 2010 Couture: Valentino

2010-01-30T17:57:00.000-05:00

Valentino could be summarized like this: pure genius. The color palette was something only a mastermind could come up with. More flesh tones, sure, but also acid yellows, the perfect shade of tomato red I've been lusting after and brick (brick!). The workmanship felt exquisite, like couture quality should. There were all the special details and workmanship you would expect from couture. He referenced trends, and then built on them, making them his own. Now here were some clothes that I would pay top dollar for.

Spring 2010 Couture: Alexis Mabille

2010-01-28T19:28:00.000-05:00

Where did this guy come from? He's so young, fresh, and ready to just take over the world one fashion show at a time. Loved the looks at this show. It was a little Batman-esque, with these outfits that I could see the joker grabbing right off the runway. That's what I liked though. Sometimes, it feels so good to be bad.

Spring 2010 Couture: Christian Dior

2010-01-28T19:07:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I feel I'm crazy because I think the opposite of what all the fashion editors think. I consider myself an expert on all things fashion related. After all, I've been wearing and admiring clothes for 30-odd years now, so I would think it would give me just as much right to comment as anyone else. But whatever. Rest assured that everything I thought about the Christian Dior show was different than the feedback I read. Because I hated it. What was to like? I mean, the ball dresses at the end, they were nice, sure, sure, but there's a whole beginning part I have to review too, and the over all feeling towards that was hatred. First of all, I hated the buttoned blazers over turtleneck with long skirt look. It was very 2010-meets-old-lady. I think they show more skin in Saudi Arabia. You made stuff my grandmother would want to wear, not fashions for the next generation. It just seemed so staid and stuffy and overwrought. And then the next set of looks didn't get any better. You took the old lady and sent her off to Sunday school. Egads! All those frilly over done confections, what were you thinking John Galliano? People may say all that ends well bodes well, and the show ended well enough, with some lovely and wearable ball gowns at the end. But I say never forget, and with those frocks I had to look at in the beginning I'm having a really hard time wiping the old memory slate clean. Isn't that one of the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder?

My Brightest Diamond

2010-01-23T16:32:00.000-05:00

My Brightest Diamond, before, after, during aforementioned rave-dance solo. You can see bits of her feather-like cape dangling in back.

This Friday I went to see My Brightest Diamond, who sings rock pierced with staccato guitar licks, replete with yelps and howls. They played at the Bowery ballroom. The singer enhanced the performance by doing everything from singing the blues to doing a spastic rave dance during a drum solo (my favorite part). They also wore costumes that make any fashionista die. The costumes were dazzling: black leotards with white, asymmetric shoulder embellishments replete with a feather like cape in the back. Genius. They sorta looked like misplaced black condors after a particularly spectacular flight. Very Rodarte. I wish I was able to capture them better in my photographs, but what I have featured here will have to do. The best thing about this show is how seamlessly the musicians blended art forms: there was costumes, music and dance. This was not an attempt to cover bad music, but rather the opposite: it stemmed from an appreciation of the arts, and how each art form works together to create beauty and meaning. The show was in a word: captivating. I wish you could have been there.

2010-01-22T10:34:00.000-05:00

Video "Bull in the Heather" by Sonic Youth from 1994.

Some people may remember the 90's as all flannels and mom jeans, but there was really so much more to the decade. How could we forget the ravers, and also all the girls (including the ravers) who sported those sweet, infantile looks. I think this Sonic Youth video is a great example of those looks. Here, and very young and sweet Kathleen Hanna (you must remember her from Bikini Kill) prances around in pigtails. Kim Gordon writhes around a bed in a baby doll dress (very Courtney Love, who she played bass for on "Violet" by the way). Later, she is seen in a synthetic pink mini-skirt, a look borrowed from the rave scene. I also want to point out that the rave scene and skateboard scene were very connected initially. I remember raving being a viable alternative scene at the time, not a home for lost, drug addled youth as people seem to remember it. I would like to see these looks explored next in fashion.

Street Smarts

2010-01-20T11:05:00.000-05:00

Watch My Back

Cool kids bag of choice lately? Turn around. The backpack has taken on new cache. It's practical and chic. Found in all materials, it appears to be most popular in leather. The girl below said she got hers at the thrift store, telling me there needs to be more of these on the market. Designers, get your pencils going!

2010-01-20T10:50:00.000-05:00

No. 6 Clogs. Click here to see more of Refinery 29's suggestions for floral shoes this Spring.

I don't care what anyone says. Clogs are the new Doc Marten. And flowers are the new plaid. Making these shoes the cutest ones you could have this spring. (And on another note, don't be afraid these won't match with your stuff. I had floral shoes once, and they looked great with everything, promise.)

Golden Children

2010-01-18T11:53:00.001-05:00

Key Looks from the 2010 Golden Globes

Drew Barrymore encapsulated the important trends of the night with her skin tone dress, assymetric neckline, and accented hip. Dress by Versace Atelier. For source click here.

Stunning as always. She also went with an assymetric neckline, and a va-va-va- voom thigh high slit. Dress Valentino. For source click here.

Diane Kruger was a refreshing pink gem floating in a crowd of wash-out muted colors. This dress by Christian Lacroix Haute Couture. Picture Style.com.

Shoulder flourish and asymmetric neckline were popular trends at the 2010 Golden Globes. January Jones in Lanvin. Picture CBS.com.

Cameron Diaz made me want to toss all my orangey-reds back in my closet. Just so stunning. Dress Alexander McQueen. For source click here.

Maggie Gylenhaal, possibly my absolute favorite dress of the evening. Dress in RM by Roland Mouret. Picture CBS.com.

Sandra Bullock wore my color of choice for 2010 (see Pantone's color of the year post). Dress Bottega Veneta. Picture CBS.com.

Golden Children

2010-01-17T22:06:00.000-05:00

Meryl Streep's assymetric neckline and red lipstick embody the over-all look of the Golden Globes. Photo from CBC news.

What can I say? The Golden Globes were just so, so glamorous. So many favorite dresses, how can I mention them all? Cameron Diaz: gorgeous, loved the red. Same to you Amy Poehler. Whoever said orange is the new red hasn't seen a woman in a classic red dress for a while. Loved Maggie Gyllenhaal: an irresistable peach who I just wanted to take a bite out of. Jennifer Aniston and Meryl Streep, keeping the black dress interesting with either a high high slit or a asymmetric neckline. Speaking of asymmetric necklines, this was seen on many of the dresses. There were also hip flourishes spotted on a few numbers (think Drew Barrymore, Jody Foster) and cut-out looks (loved Felicity Huffman's). Overall, colors were relegated to soft peaches, pinks, blacks, with a punch of red (and red lipstick). Golden Globes, you go and let your stars shine.

Love Will Conquer All

2010-01-15T19:45:00.000-05:00

So funny that Dazed and Confused had this article about Courtney Love this month because I have been so meaning to dig up some ol' Hole videos and give them a go on here. The best one doesn't have and embed link, so to see a complete version click here. Ms. Love is THE definitive grunge era girl. With all this hoopla about the 90's being back in fashion it's time to give her some r-e-s-p-e-c-t. Note the sweet slip dress with her matted hair and smeared lipstick. Here's to a woman who eschewed traditional forms of femininity and gave male patriarchy a big fuck you with every performance. Courtney Love, I heart you.

Brittany Murphy Inducted Into Secret Society

2010-01-15T13:15:00.000-05:00

Film still, "Uptown Girls" from allmoviephotos

Brittany Murphy, we love you. I still remember when you were Cher's beauty experiment in Clueless. You really grew from there. If there is one way for all to remember you, it would have to be in this outfit from Uptown Girls. I love the distressed denim with the patches. I will wear this outfit this Spring and dedicate it to you. You've been inducted. Love, Secret Society

Just For The Long and Short of It

2010-01-11T14:43:00.000-05:00

Long, elegant and accessorized to a t, loving these outfits from chicheroin.com .

The exaggerated silhouette of the boots really amplify the sex appeal, making it easier to wear this look.

The coat also adds to the sex appeal. It's unexpected, but ties in with the textures and accessories perfectly.

Speaking of blogs, and I speak of mine a lot lately, a friend showed me this: chicheroin.blogspot.com. While the blog focuses on one girl taking pictures of herself, something I can find a little self-serving, I will forgive this girl for doing it well. And, I have to admit...I love her outfits. Anyway, I was REALLY lovin' this one, with the long dress. Part relaxed boheme, and other part rock star, she looks ready to run off with the band any moment now. For the upcoming summer months this is a definite do. What a refreshing move from yester-summers short shorts and mini's. How much skin can we bear to bare? Here's to a long, long decade.

Color Stories

2010-01-09T13:20:00.001-05:00

This just in from NPR: atoms splitting can look really cool. I just love the three shades of grey with the red in this illustration. Oh, the wonders of science.

Peruvian High Life

2010-01-08T21:25:00.001-05:00

Group dyeing yarn using the cochineal beetle. This beetle in central to dyeing techniques in this part of the world. It produces colors from pink to red-orange to a deep burgundy red.

Man wearing traditional vest and knitting chullo. Knitting is practiced mostly by women, but by both men and women in some communities.

Woman spinning thread on her phusca, or drop spindle. Spinning is done by most in these villages, especially those unable to weave because of extreme youth or old age. All photos from the book "Weaving in the Peruvian Highlands" by Nilda Callañuapa Alvarez

OMG, so absolutely fabulous. Totally jealous of anyone who gets to wear these clothes on a daily basis. I am just ready to rip an item of clothing off from each wearer. I would coordinate them with my skinny jeans and tromp down the mean streets of New York City. There I would shock and awe all with the wondrous creations I'd be wearing. These are from a book I got for Christmas (thank-you Marina!) . If you knew the work each person put into each textiles you would never take a piece of cloth lightly again.

Pantone Color Swatch of The Year

2010-01-07T18:46:00.000-05:00

Swatch depicting Pantone's color for 2010. Go to their website here to read more.

At first I thought they were crazy. I mean, turquoise!? With all the new colors I've been excited about right now like fleshy peach, lemon zest, and jade, how could they choose turquoise!? It felt like a violation. But still, maybe they have a point. Turquoise does remind you of the serene waters at your favorite island get-away. You know, the one you can't get to this year because it costs too much damn money? Yeah, that one. It also is a great way to segue from the greens and other warm colors so popular of late. Even so, given my choice, I'd vote for a different color. Maybe reddish purple. This color, seeing tromping all over runways this season is also a great way to segue from warm to cool. And as for its soothing qualities? Er, I'll have get back to you about that one.

Color Charge

2010-01-05T11:52:00.000-05:00

I just felt so inspired by the colors in this photo from Sunday's New York Times I had to share.

Shabba Ranks: A Trailer Load Of 90's Fashion

2010-01-03T23:07:00.000-05:00

So maybe you remember him better as Mr. Loverman. However you remember him, you gotta love this video I found. What I enjoyed best are all the hot 90's trends featured in it. There is enough day-glow and underwear as outerwear in in this video for an average girl to wear from now straight into 2020. I was literally hard pressed to pick a favorite outfit, but forced to make the choice I'd say it has to be a toss up between the peach spandex body-con shorts outfit and the green sequin hot-shorts. Keep your eye on the black outfit with the gold coin embellishment. That is what I see reinterpreted for 2011. Oh, and Mr. Ranks? Love the hair.

Dear: Rivington Street

2009-12-30T09:12:00.000-05:00

Window display

Clothing dislay. Love the color and texture.

Example of some of the interesting antiques Dear carries

The other night while it was dark and wind was whipping debris around on the street I found myself on a desolate section in the Lower East Side of New York. Suddenly, like a beacon to a parched sailor I saw a light. Wedged between an abandoned building and an old school tailor was the store Dear. A light glowed softly from the white rooms inside and spilled out onto the sidewalks. The glow from inside illuminated whimsical mannequins who floated in space. With their black, white, and red poofs of tulle the displays were truly magical. Number decals danced along the windows, creating more interesting designs. Always afraid of math, I was beginning to think that Dear could give me the power to embrace numbers. No matter. Dear gets even cooler inside, where you can find clothing, accessories, and antiques. You should check it out for yourself: Dear, 95 Rivington St., Lower East Side, New York City. Comment what you think.

Fela's Women

2009-12-26T16:43:00.000-05:00

Close-ups Of Fela's wives from the play "Fela!" now on Broadway. Photos courtesy of the New York Times, from the article "Finding Depth In Fela's Women".

I have been inspired by Fela Kuti's music for years now, but recently heard that there's a new play on Broadway chronicling his life. Special focus has been put on the Afrobeat musician's many wives and their costumes, which are indeed great. Fela, according to the New York Times article "Finding Depth In Fela's Women" married his 27 co-wives in unison as part of a protest against what he considered governmental degradation of traditional Nigerian culture. I love the rich colors and bold patterning in these photos, especially the hair and the make-up.