As my first blog post, I have had a bit of a hard time deciding on how to get this started. All I know is that I have wanted to start a blog for a while, having it mostly related to the fashion industry. I have always had a passion for this topic, and I hope to show this passion through this blog. Hence the title, Reflection, for I think that fashion is a reflection of who you are and how you want to be represented to your peers.
Designer of the Week
Karl Lagerfeld, Chanel
As my first blog post, I initially didn't want to feature a well-known designer, but after reading "Vive la Couture!" in April's Harper Bazaar, I was very drawn to the Spring 2009 Chanel couture collection designed by Karl Lagerfeld. This collection was a fresh breath of romance, focusing the couture line solely on black and white. With impeccable lines and detail, and exquisite fabrics of lace and mattes, Lagerfeld created a masterpiece of white beauty.
What made the show spectacular was not only the elegance of each piece of clothing that walked down the runway, but also the flowers, feathers and leafs constructed only of white paper, which graced each model who walked down the runway. These crafted hairpieces were created by Japanese hairdresser Kamo (style.com), who truly brought something special to the Paris runway show.
When reading about this in Harper's Bazaar, I was in awe. This show was a momentous representation of how fashion is continuously reinvented to bring us something fresh and artistic. Although Lagerfeld used mostly a white palette alone, with touches of black here and there, its simple color combination was complimented with beautiful silhouettes of lace and beaded fabrics. The simplicity of the color palette was extremely refreshing. "It's healthy... I see the recession as a cleansing tool which will push away bad taste and all this bling bling," stated Lagerfeld (Harper's Bazaar, April 2009). With this insight from the legendary designer, this collection is just another example of how fashion is not just about the clothes, but also a reflection of what is going on all over the world. Lagerfeld's collection serves as inspiration for what most would call a dark time in our nation's history, for by using a while palette, he was trying to translate his view that we should be looking to the future with hope for what is to come next.
With all of this metaphor stuff aside though, bravo to Lagerfeld and Chanel for continuing to bring something new to our eyes, by reinventing haute couture, bringing out the true artistic potential of fashion.
What I Love this Week
Brights to Brighten Up Your Look for Spring
With the beginning of spring now upon us, I can't help but be drawn to the bright, citrus hues of oranges, reds and yellows - or electric blues and envious greens. Whether it is a coral Chloe python bag with a strap of gold chains, or a tribal inspired wedge with a splash of color, bright hues are definitely a way to update your look for this spring season, but be sure to not go overboard. Your outfit needs balance. These bright hues should be worn with a neutral touch, such as a neutral dress with a bright heel and/or handbag. For example, you could pull a Carrie Bradshaw and wear a white dress, freshening it up with an electric blue pump. Although she wore this as her wedding ensemble when she finally said "I do" to Mr. Big, it does not have to be so bridal, and rather can be a sophisticated and fresh look for spring. Or, if you want to do the opposite of this look, go for a bright floral dress, accessorizing it with a neutral tribal or gladiator style heel.
Studs and Embellishments
I am loving the studded heels and flats for the spring and summer season. Whether they are leather or suede, tall or low heeled, studs add an edge look to you summer look, while not becoming too over the top. I am obsessed with these Steve Madden pumps:
With the tie in the back and the open toe, they are a different take on a spring heel or sandal for a night on the town. Although they are a little tall for me with a four-inch-heel, if I were a good five inches shorter, they would definitely be an addition to my summer wardrobe.
Loving what is Beautiful
Keeping it Natural...
With the weather heating up in sunny San Diego, I have been lightening up on my face make-up, having a new appreciation for my "You Rebel" tinted moisturizer from Benefit. This stuff is amazing, but you have to use it in small amounts, otherwise your face will turn into oil central - not so hot. With the right amount though, about the size of a dime, it brings out your sun kissed complexion, and with a little dab of concealer and bronzer, your good to go for a summer day or night.
... Or Maybe not?
Yet, in contradiction to this idea of a natural beauty, I am also obsessed with false eyelashes. Fake lashes add a sense of glamour not only to you look, but to your attitude as well. As cheesy as that may sound, it's true. Whether you wear a more natural looking pair, or thick luscious ones that are dramatically slanted toward the outside corner of your eye, they emphasize the eye and are a fun addition to your look for a night on the town.
