GoodBye to 2000 & Nine

With 2009 come and gone, it is once again a time to reflect on the passing year. In entertainment, we saw the darker side of a young musician (CB), the death of a pop legend, and a tiger who showed his true strips. In terms of fashion we have continued to see how fashion evolves and adapts to our ever-changing environment. Specific to 2009, we saw that fashion has returned to the idea of the individual, rather than fashionistas drooling over this season's "it" bag. In a rough economic downturn, the fashion individual was reborn because at the end of the day, we can't afford new clothes like we once could, and we are therefore forced to re-invent what we already own. If there was anytime to say, "anything goes", 2009 was the starting line. Fashion in this sense has become more interesting because each person can now be their own, unique artist when it comes to their wardrobe.

Even with this noteworthy idea that anything and everything goes, that doesn't mean there weren't certain trends that left a stylish footprint in our hearts. Some styles and trends worth reflecting on: A good sequin. The return of the 80s & a MC Hammer harlem pant. Emphasized shoulders. Platforms that take on new heights. The death of the UGG boot as "fashionable" (thank god!). The plaid button down (I am happy this one is fizzling out, eek). Ankle boots. Headpieces - anything from feathered to hippie headbands. Anything that is zipped and studded.

For me, 2009 was an eventful year with a college graduation, the european adventure, a close, yet big move to the bright, Hollywood lights of Los Angeles, and the launch of my career in fashion publishing. With so many changes in 2009, I have a feeling 2010 will continue to bring unexpected surprises. So, until we meet again next year, have a happy happy New Year.

2.0.0.9

Trash & Luxury

Whenever I am asked the question, "If you could look like any celebrity, who would it be?" I always ponder and try to think of someone with a particularly stunning, yet unique feature, but somehow I always result with the same answer, and that is Kate Hudson. As one of my favorite female actresses who seems to have it all in terms of inner and outer beauty, I didn't think twice to fork over the $5 to buy January's Harper's Bazzar with her smiling face on the cover - and thank goodness I did because the fashion shoot for her feature is INCREDIBLE. There is something about mixing high fashion with everyday, generic activities and chores (such as doing laundry at the local laundry matt in Lanvin, or chowing down on a NY hotdog with sauerkraut in Burberry Prorsum) that is so intriguing. Turns out, this bizarre equation that may not seem to add up is just the answer to taking amazing photographs.

It is also wonderful to finally start seeing pieces from the runways of Christian Dior, Prada and many other designers in another setting other than being strutted down the runway. I am surprised to see the Prada ensemble worn while pumping gas at a grungy gas station in the image below. The Prada SS10 collection carried on a sci-fi, futuristic trend we have been seeing this fall. The "get-up" Kate is wearing below embraces an under-the-sea, space-y type feel, and I'm not quite sure it fits with the setting as well as the others do - not so much of a fan of that one.

Here are some of my favorite pictures from the shoot. Overall, this is probably my favorite shoot I have ever seen in an editorial. Literally, obsessed.com - xo

Lanvin

(My new favorite brand, and favorite photo of the bunch)

Dior

Burberry Prorsum

Prada, with Swarovski-crystal Belt

Marchesa

All pictures from January 2010 Harper's Bazaar.

Photographer: Peter Lindbergh

DVF Pre Fall 2010

Although I am still wrapping my head around the trends for Spring/Summer 2010, I couldn't help but post a little something from Diane von Furstenberg's Pre-Fall collection. Usually, I am not a DVF fan, especially when referring to her SS10 collection (I will say it was well executed, but the raver, rubber neon bracelets combined with the neon basket weaving is not my cup of tea).

But, I've had a change of heart in the last ten minutes while glancing through her pre-fall line. I am absolutely in love with look 1 from the collection - an oversized, argyle wool jacket? Yes please. The sequin dress underneath is stunning as welll. Some other favorites are below too - loving the mixing and matching of prints (similar to what we've seen for spring, but now in darker shades), fur detailing and oversized frocks. I am already so excited for fall collections <3xo

All I want for Christmas...

... is a David Yurman ring, and a House of Harlow Aztec Bangle...

Tis' the season of giving and receiving. With the holidays around the corner, I couldn't help but make a holiday wish list, or "gift guide", if you will, for this Christmas season. Below are my favorite gift ideas for the fashionista on your shopping list.

Bangle, House of Harlow by Nicole Richie

Fringe Shoulder, Bodycon Dress, www.ASOS.com

(Perfect party dress. With the fringe, you can flap and dance the night away.)

Gold with Black Onyx Ring, David Yurman

(No explanation needed)

Eyelashes, MAC Cosmetics

(Ideal stocking stuffer. Lashes are always good to have in the make-up case for the last minute vegas trip or night on the town.)

Sequin Bomber, www.urbanoutfitters.com

(Perfect to have for an array of holiday parties and gatherings, try pairing with jeans or a dress. Whether it's a sequin blazer, cardigan, or bomber, don't be afraid to bring out your inner MJ this season.)

Grey Sweatshirt with Lace Detailing, www.urbanoutfitters.com

(Cute and comfy - the perfect gift)

Joe's Jean Legging, www.nordstrom.com

(This will definitely be a "must have" for coming seasons - I suggest investing in a pair ASAP. What I love most is you get the look of a skinny jean, but the extra tightness won't give you any problems with tucking them into boots, or they won't stretch out like your go-to pair skinny jeans.)

Black and Gold Watch, Anne Klein, www.nordstrom.com

(Great to accessorize with lots of bangles & bracelets - try matching with gold, silver and/or black)

Thigh High Socks, www.ASOS.com

(May seem school girl, but they are totally cute if worn correctly. Wear with a sweater dress, or try wearing them with jean shorts and a bulky, cable knit sweater and knee-high, leather boots)

Bone Patent Platform Pumps, Steve Madden

(These will go with EVERYTHING!!!)

Gold "Legend" Double Finger Ring, www.ASOS.com

L.A.M.B. Clutch Wallet, www.nordstrom.com

(Love this because it can function as a wallet, or a clutch if you aren't bringing a lot out with you for the evening. With the black and white, stucco-like pattern, you can wear it casual with jeans, or wearing it with the right cocktail attire will add a little edge to a dressier ensemble)

New Mooners looking Chic

What a shocker to see only the two most talked about stars in Hollywood of the moment on Harper's Bazaar's latest cover - Miss Stewart and Mr. Pattinson. I must admit, I am a New Moon fan, but I tend to steer clear of all the hype surrounding the movie, since my dedication to the saga lies within the books. But, I have to say, I was instantly drawn to this months issue due to the amazing photography. Grabbing the issue off the stand the moment I saw it, I immediately flipped to find the story on the vamp-tastic duo. I am absolutely in LOVE with EVERYTHING from this shoot. I particularly love the look below on Kristen. That skirt and top combo from Prada is incredible - a perfect addition to the romantically gothic feel of the shoot.

Side Beauty Note: Thank goodness Kristen dyed her hair black - it looks SO MUCH BETTER.

More SS10 Favorites

Christian Dior

Balmain

(((amazinggggggggg)))

Derek Lam

Lanvin

Unique for TopShop

Lanvin

Valentino

It's Reptallic

Throughout the SS10 runway shows, there has been a consistency of khakis, whites and neutrals. There is no doubt in my mind that this neutral color palette will have a strong presence in every woman’s wardrobe come spring. As much as I love what I have seen when it comes to this trend, I was extremely relieved to see something on the other side of the spectrum walk down the Alexander McQueen runway in Paris.

McQueen’s collection, titled “Plato’s Atlantis”, was a full-blown, dramatic production. With an enormous video intro and immense, ghastly black video cameras planted on the runway, McQueen transported you to another world engulfed with an under-the-sea, sci-fi environment.

The collection clearly drew an inspiration from the aquatic creature. From scales and python graphics, to volume, flutter and body-con shapes, the designer encompassed a Model turned Reptile persona with the collection. The couture designer used many shapes of which he is known for and combined them with impeccable detailing of fringe, beading and custom, computer generated fabrics (style.com). When it comes to this collection, one thing is for certain - McQueen did not fall short of exquisite craftsmanship and breathtaking creativity.

Can you say, Pterodactyl??!

Um, and the shoes...

Hello, Platforms! How models can walk in these bad boys, I have NO idea. But wow, this is definitely a new take on the bootie, they almost have an alien-esk feel to them, don't you think? If anything though, they are definitely a piece of beautiful and well-crafted art.

NY Fashion Week - Some Faves from SS 10

I have been a little busier than usual, so have not had as much time as I would like to come up with a little shpeal for NY Fashion Week.  I will write something in the next week or so, but for now, here are a couple of my fave looks from the shows.  <3

Milly By Michelle Smith

Peter Som

Peter Som

Proenza Schouler

Vera Wang