New York Fashion Week: Best in show from day 1!

Day one of New York Fashion Week has come to a close! The snow proved to be a non-obstacle, and everything ran pretty smoothly. It was a tough opening, with the death of renowned fashion designer, Alexander McQueen, on everyone’s minds and in everyone’s hearts. "It's horrible news. It's so sad to be in such a state of despair. Such a great talent, such poetry -- it's horrific," New York fashion doyenne Diane von Furstenberg, head of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, told AFP. However, the show must go on, and with McQueen’s family in everyone’s prayers, the tents opened and the models hit the runways. Among all of the amazing collections shown, a few of my very favorite were Acne, BCBC Max Azria, Richard Chai Love, and Ports 1961. All brilliant, I can’t wait for these designs to hit stores in July! Here is my round-up of NYFW Day 1:

Acne

Designer, Jonny Johnson, was inspired by the Star Wars figurines that he young sons collect and play with. He told style.com, “We have to watch it and play it all the time. It’s sort of embarrassing, but that’s where my inspiration comes from – always close to home.” The models had spray-painted foreheads, glitter-glue eyelids, and dirt-sleek hair that made them look like urban-dwelling aliens. The Stockholm-based designer played with his normally Nordic designs, and upgraded them to transform to the streets, with a gothic-like look. Graffiti-print dresses, zipper harem pants, cartoonish fur topped boots, and a fabulous aviator shearling jacket are among my favorites of the collection. My favorite look, definitely look 16, simply because I want to wear that right now!

BCBG Max Azria

Husband-and-wife teams of Max and Lubov Azria decided to keep it practical for the upcoming Fall 2010 season, and I quite like the change from Spring 2010 which had more of an abstract, party-girl feel. With regards to the recession, Mrs. Azria told style.com, “It’s made us realists…It’s not about our fantasy. It’s about the customer.” Sensible and sellable, this pair gave us clean, crisp lines and knits that looked chic and comfortable. The thin t-shirt material is meant for people to be able to wear them right at the end of summer, love it! I loved the color-block patterns and the way the fabrics were layered, wrapped, draped and tucked to create a fantastic silhouette. My favorite look- the show opener! The silk piece layered over the super-thin tee, pulled together with a belt is a perfect fall outfit that I will wear come September!

Richard Chai Love

One of my favorite designers, Richard Chai, has done it again! He’s delivered a contemporary line that is lower-priced, but looks every bit as expensive as his primary line. Chai explained to style.com before the show, “I want to nurture the [Love] business. The women’s collection is already established.” The look for fall ’10 was very 90’s, with grunge-like tees paired with long skirts and fabulously sweet origami crane-printed silk button-down blouses. I loved his sporty looks the most, which reminded me a lot of Alexander Wang’s designs, but still unique. I loved look 11, it’s so cool and I love sweats! I’d want to wear it just as so, red lipstick and all! Well done Richard, you've definitely created clothes that women will Love.

And, don’t forget to watch Ports 1961 live streaming!!! The collection featured lots of greys and neutrals. I loved the suede boots and leather accenting. Also, flats and evening wear was a daring look, if you’re brave enough to try it! Oh, and I’m obsessed with the models’ free, curly hair- amazing! Watch it all here:

http://h.zeitbyte.com/o1/zb3.1/ports-1961/webcast_021110/webcast_021110/ports_1961_webast.html

(and follow the label on Twitter at: @Ports1691USA )

For more on these collections, head to: http://www.style.com/fashionshows/collections/F2010RTW/

There's No Fist Pumping At Fashion Week

And there's no GTL'ing either...

Fashion and style are the last two words that jumps to mind when it comes to the over tanned, juiced up, scandalous cast of MTV’s Jersey Shore. I think these reality TV stars may actually be the anti-fashion…So, it was much to my disgust to hear this morning, via the New York Post, that your favorite guidos and guidettes may actually be attending New York Fashion Week! I mean, can you even picture these D-listers sitting among fashion’s greatest, exchanging notes with Anna Wintour and talking trends with Rachel Zoe? No, it’s absurd, and I am so scared to find out whether or not this is pure rumor or if it’s for real. Right now I am calling it just a bad joke, my favorite part being that one of their managers claims that a few designers actually reached out to them. Non-members of the fashion elite have become more and more present at Bryant Park recently, and many of the industry’s most important people are complaining that it is getting out of hand. If the Jersey Shore peeps actually end up with the seats at Fashion Week that they’ve been allegedly requesting, I will have a nice big laugh. While I do sort of enjoy these crazy and wild kids on my TV set, I’d rather not see them on, around, or anywhere near the runways. And plus, how would anyone be able to see over Snooki's hair pouf? No fist pumps for this news flash…it could be fashion suicide. We’ll see if they appear at the park…let’s hope they don’t!

Grammy's Most Gorgeous and Grotesque

Ugh, I have to start off this post by saying that I was pretty let down by this year's Grammy fashion. There was only really one, maybe two outfits that made my jump off my couch with admiration. Honestly, I planned on making this a "Best Dressed" write-up, but not I am forced to turn it into a "A Few Decently Dressed" and "A Whole Lot Of Worst Dressed"....

So, here are my slim pickins for the 2010 Grammy Awards Best in Fashion:

Lady Gaga had me going Gaga over this Armani Prive space get-up. While she landed on the Fashion Don't list of many, I will forever stand behind her fashion forward, futuristic outfits..no matter how out of this world they may be!

Jennifer Hudson showed off her hot post-baby body in this Victoria Beckham original. She could be mistaken for Posh Spice herself she looks that good! (with a few more beautiful curves, however).

I'm not head over heels for Keri Hilson's gown, made by Dolce & Gabbana, but I do think she looked absolutely stunning from head to toe. Her make-up was radiant, her hair looked glam. Loved the look overall.

Lea Michele has been a permanent fixture on my Fashion Do lists lately. This Glee star showed off her long legs in this Romona Keveza mini. Love that she didn't cover those up for once, who knew she had 'em?!

While I didn't care for Beyonce's first outfit, I loved this gold, glittery, chain embellished super-mini that she accepted her award in. Sasha very fierce!

This is a dress that I was very torn by...one of those looks that you either love because it's so brilliant, or you hate because it belongs in the trash, not on the red carpet. Luckily, Rihanna tilted me in the favorable direction, and I loved this Elie Saab gown on her!

Carrie Underwood was one of many who sported the cut-out trend, and just barely pulled it off. I thought she looked like a total beauty, and the dress was very elegant. It did look like she was testing out bridal gowns...but nonetheless, it was a Do for me.

Ok, this'll be easier. This Year's Grammys Worst Dressed Goes To:

Britney Spears...what can I say...you are a mess my darling. Please don't tell us that you're headed downhill again, because from the looks of it, and your fishnet stockings, that just might be the case. The pop princess should be mad at her beau, who's also her manager, for allowing her to leave the house in this disaster. Although the dress is by...gasp!..Dolce & Gabbana...a designer name alone can't make a look work. Sorry Brit, you're a big Don't..

Ke$ha calls her look "Garbage Chic"...which is like an oxymoron, but wutever...All I know is that if she was trying to class it up a bit with this flapper-inspired dress, she killed all hope by pairing it with those hideous heels, her normally grungy locks, and morning-after make-up. Fashion failure..TikTok, someone blow this outfit up please.

My favorite modern pin-up girl, Katy Perry dissapointed me with her Grammy pick, even if it was a Zac Posen design. It's a little grandma-sh, and not good for her skin tone at all. You're usually hot my love, but this look is just cold.

Schnickers, oh my..what shall we do with you? It's obvious no designer showrooms have opened their arms to you..which is sad, but you can at least try to look appropriate for one of the biggest nights in Hollywood. I have no idea who you are wearing...Guess, Forever21, Wet Seal??? Snooki, that outfit only works on the Jersey Shore...but props on nixing the hair pouf!

I've read a bunch of good review on Ciara's outfit at the Grammys, and I just don't get it! I thought she was almost as bad as Britney. I mean, her face looked great, but from the neck down I wanted to cry for her. There is so much going on I can't even tell what the heck is really happening with her dress...is it a dress, or pants...a body suit? Whatever, this Givenchy design looks a hot tranny mess on her. Hate it. :P

Beyonce, you made it onto both my Best Dressed and Worst Dress lists, congrats! I think that Miss B always look exquisite, she is a total beauty. But, she is also totally bootylicious, and should keep that in mind when dressing. This Stephane Rolland gown looks like it's cutting off oxygen to her brain it's so tight, and the quilted pattern doesn't flatter her at all. If I were a boy, I would not be impressed...sorry Jay, I love her too..but it's a no.

Actress or Star Trek voyager? Hmm...Kristen Bell had me wondering in this galactic-looking dress with the cut-out neck choker. Such a cute, petite girl should not be wearing such an awkward shape that does absolutely nothing for her great figure. But, maybe you don't care anymore since you're newly engaged. Congrats, by the way!

Nicole Kidman looked a little out of place at the Grammys in this black, ruffle bib-neck Prada gown. Her hubbie, however, looked chic in his shimmery suit, sans tie. Honestly, together they looked like two totally different generations...c'mon Nic, let loose a little, you're dating a country rock star!

Grammy day was a fairytale for Taylor Swift, winning the biggest honor of the night, Album Of The Year. However, her fashion choice was anything but fantastic...it sucked. The blue, glittery Kaufman Franco gown was way too much and way too old for her! I'm happy she broke away from her usual Grecian look, but this dress was the wrong way to go. But you get a pass Tay, because you're so adorable (just don't do it again!).

Fergie is usually totally Fergalicious, but on the Grammy red carpet she was anything but. There is no doubt that her body was rocking in this form-fitting, sexy Pucci mini dress, but it was all wrong. I really want her to stop all the futuristic fashion choices...on stage it's ok, off stage it's stupid. Wrong dress, wrong occasion. Repeat after me Ferg: "Imma be better at dressing myself from now on". Thanks!

Gaga-licious

Could you possibly be fed anymore Gaga than you already have been lately? Oh yes you can! I came across this post on fashionindie.com and immediately had a major couture cookie craving! Lady Gaga cookies everyone, how fab?! These cute little cookies get a Haus Of Gaga make-over, featuring replicated Gaga looks painted on with colorful, sugary and oh-so yummy frosting. The original get-ups were crazy enough, but these tiny morsels look just absolutely ridiculous, but so incredibly dead-on! My favorite is for sure the two of her nutty MTV VMA awards outfits (remember..the bloody performance piece, and the red lace face mask that completely covered her poker face..?). She's one wacky lady, but that's why I love her! Most people don't realize that most of her out-of-this-world outfits are actually high-fashion and haute couture pieces right off the runway. Daring, talented, and now edible, I can't get enough of this fashionable songstress. And lets just say, I'm having a bad romance with these delish cooookies!

Alexander McQueen Look-For-Less!!!

I know I am not alone in loving the Alexander McQueen Spring 2010 RTW collection. The reptile-patterned, digitally-printed dresses and the sea monster-like shoes was such a fantastical look that combined both land crawlers and sea swimmers. The beautiful colors of aqua, greens, browns and bright yellows were so eye-catching, and the prints were so expertly engineered, it would be hard to imagine anyone being able to replicate this look for less. Well, no one can do what McQueen does, and that's a fact...but they can try. So, try Armani Exchange did, and their efforts are not so shabby. As I was strolling by shops on my way out of work yesterday, my eye caught a glimpse of a fabulous dress in the window. At second glance, my first reaction was, ahah! I found it, yay yay yay- an A McQueen look-a-like! The snake-skin print frock was a great, affordable option for those who cannot even begin to ponder purchasing the real deal (myself included...).

Available online as well as in stores, the "Snake Print Dress" from Armani Exchange is only $120.00!!! This pattern also comes in a stunning, long flowing maxi dress, $150, and a chic mini skirt, $68. This is a look-for-less MUST BUY. I can't wait to snatch up that mini for myself. j'adore!

www.armaniexchange.com/product/id/100024806.do?zmam=38332444&zmas=2&zmac=2&zmap=2202.10375.2534

Row Row Row

...your boat? No, I am not referring to the silly childhood song that speaks of rowing a boat merily down a stream (what was the point of that song anyways..??). I'm talking about the mens and women apparel and accessories line from you favorite Full House stars, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. These fashionable twin sistahs never shy away from expressing their unique, and individual, styles. While they have been printed on the pages of a many "Fashion Police" and fashion "Don'ts" editorials, it is usually only because they were guilty of a crime that I believe it excusable: being daring! So, it is somewhat surprising to see that their line, called The Row, is not so out of the box. However, that is not to say that it is not impressive. I actually love the wearibility of their designs, which include looks and items that real women will really wear. yay.

The brand actually began in 2007, when the identicals set out to make the perfect t-shirt, attempting to intertwine great tailoring and modern day classics. They expanded into men's in 2009, and just launched their website- which is why all the hype about it currently. Apparently the Row's style philosophy does not believe in trends...uhuh..so that's why the Spring/Summer 2010 collection has so many tribal-inspired pieces and stylings?? yup...that's what I thought. But hey, I'm not knocking it, I quite like their clean lines and classic wardrobe staples. Well done Michelle Tanner, i mean..Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen. I was expecting bag-lady garb, and they delivered chic essentials. Not rude at all, rather very appropriate. Uncle Jesse must be very proud. Love love love, want! ...oh ya, it's pretty affordable too.

The Row official website (with online store!)

http://therow.com/

(picture via http://www.whowhatwear.com/)

Can Gucci Couture?

Yes, couture is a verb in my book, because you have to do couture, you can't just be it. Fashionista.com hinted at me this morning that Frida Giannini may start a couture collection for Gucci....Love Gucci, Frida, but earning couturier status isn't like applying for a new bank card...it's extremely exclusive. Fashionista reminds her that you must be certified by the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, being a world famous fashion label is simply not enough to stand next to Chanel and Galliano. WWD reported that the collection won't be shown in Paris, only by appointment to use in service of top notch celebs. Will Gucci be the next Christian Laxroix? Hmm, doubtful...but we can always keep an open mind and give the double G an A for effort. Stay tuned.

Kate Hudson Got It White

Award season is one of my favorite times of the year. Curling up on my couch with a glass of wine each Sunday to watch the red carpet broadcasting, ready to be amazed...and confused, by the style choices of Hollywood's hottest stars. This year's best dressed so far (that includes Golden Globes and SAG Awards) is hands down...Kate Hudson! I give this Nine star a shining 10 stars for her red carpet appearance last Sunday at the Golden Globe Awards, and yesterday at the SAGs. I've adored Kate Hudson's style since I saw her in that golden yellow satin gown that she wore at the end of How To Lose A Guy In Ten Days (which I bought a replica of, guilty, for my Junior prom). Kate is a prime example of how not to lose a guy in ten days, she is always fashionably flawless!

At the Globes, Kate looked glamorous in a white hot strapless silk crepe Marchesa gown. Such an elegant pick, she chose white, so classic and glamorous, especially with the white peplum train. The dress fit her beautifully with it's very structured shape, which showcased her petite, fit frame just as it should be. I loved the feathered detail at the bust, the intricate folding at the waist, and the way the skirt bunched at the back...perfection! It reminded me of Swan Lake, in the best way! (ps-media claimed Kate looked "curvy" and "heavier" at the globes...and I for one think that is completely insane and they need to reevaluate their definition of heavy...seriously ridiculous..she looks amaze!).

Hudson took home another victory at last night's SAG Awards, stepping out onto the red carpet in a breathtaking backless white Emilio Pucci gown. The high neck line and long sleeves accentuated her smaller upper half and super toned arms, while the low-to-the-tush open back highlighted her sexy backside. (note to self: try open back, super hot). The look was so dramatic, and she carried it with total confidence...I mean, how could she not?! I thought the Cartier white golf and diamond long sautoir spotlight necklace that she wore down her back was the icing on the cake...the perfect accessory!

Kate was an absolute vision in white..no fashion police can touch her, she got it all right (or white, actually). Can't wait to see this golden girl at the next award show, I'm sure she'll wow us again!

Stella in Wonderland

So many designers this season looked to Tim Burton's take on Alice in Wonderland for inspiration, and so we saw an array of whimsical fairytale looks on the Spring 2010 runways (Chanel, Rodarte, Givenchy, Marc Jacobs...). Recently, Stella McCartney has announced that she too will be jumping down the rabbit hole, launching a her jewelry line of Wonderland inspired pieces. Expected are designs consisting of rabbits, Mad Hatter's hats, hearts, and spades. These charms are made from Plexiglass and Swarovski crystals, a very fun and playful take on costume jewelry. WWD revealed that the jewels will be available in black, sheer pink, and brown.

This theme seems very fitting for Stella, since she always has a sort of fanciful and playful look to her designs...and even her Fall 2009 ad campaign resembled something out of the Disney movie Bambi-like a fantasy world. This limited edition collection will come just in time for the hot new 3D movie release, in theatres this March, and will be sold in her boutiques next month. I can't wait to get a look at this magical collection...I'm just mad for Stella McCartney!

Take A Walk In The Desert

What does one wear to look stylist while trouncing around in the desert sands? Well, J.Crew, of course! My recent obsession has been the Suede MacAlister boots by J.Crew. These are not a new fashion, they've been around since my parents were teens...the 60's? Anyways, the day I brought them home, a few weeks ago, my dad laughed and said how he had worn those all the time when he was a kid (and, not to mention probably only paid $20 for them). It's funny how trends come full circle like that, but in such a new way, with such a new twist. This time, J.Crew has brought back these sand-stompers for a slightly higher price of $135...but I promise you, they're well worth it!

Paired with colorful ankle tight/socks and a dressier pencil skirt, black toothpick jeans, or even a day dress. This look is the essence of "borrowing from the boys", which is something the crew always does so very well...and these shoes are actually made for men, (so buy at least one size below your normal size (I'm a Women's 7 .5 or an 8 and I bought a Men's size 6, and they still have a little room).

Another cool take on the MacAlister desert boot style is their Sahara suede ankle boots, which are very Chloe, who I just love love love! They have a 3" heel, made of the softest suede, with lace-up detailing and a fold over top. They seem super comfortable, but are a tad pricey for $225. But, they are so chic and incredibly wearable (with a girlie, flowy dress for Spring..adorable!). I simply can't get enough of this trend, it's hot hot hot!

Hollywood's Hottest Good Luck Charm: Otrera Scarves

Scarves are a fashion accessory that crosses all seasons, especially when they are made of silk. When in doubt, I throw on a scarf and voila, instant chic! Hollywood fashionistas are known for finding the most fabulous, up-and-coming accessories, and that is why we always look to them when trying to discover the latest trends. Lately, starlets can not get enough of their Otrera scarves, designed by Elle Sakellis.

Otrera by Elle Sakellis is rooted deeply in Greek tradition, and Elle looked to her Greek heritage for inspiration . She named her fabulous accessory brand after the mysterious Greek warrior goddess known for her astounding beauty and strength. Her evil eye scarf was created after admiring a display of Evil Eyes ahnging in a small Mykonian tourist shop. Recently, Elle has also come out with a line of hamsa print scarves, which is also a symbol that has been thought to protet people from jealous glares and enemies since the ancient times.

A-listers such as Alicia Keys, Rachel Ray, Paris Hilton, and Maggie Gyllenhaal are all huge fans of this growing trend, and have been seen sporting their good luck charms all over. Just think, all of these big-earners have each experience an enormous amount of success in 2009...could it be Otrera's luck? Hmmm...

Not only are Elle's scarves chic looking, they area also extremely luxurious to the touch. Each piece has hand-sewn glass evil eye charms at the ends, providing protection from evil all day long. Made of 100% silk chiffon, these wraps make a high-class statement, but at a less-than high-end price. At only $198.00, you too can have your very own Otrera original. I for one can't wait to get my hands on one of each design...I just have to decide on which color (turquoise is so classic Greek!).

Wear your Otrera scarf and you too will be surrounded by good karma and positive energy in 2010! And, oh yah, Elle designs exquisite jewelry as well...that's for another post...check out her site and spread the good luck this year!

http://www.otrera.com/

Follow on Twitter: @OtreraByElle

Like This Look: Lingerie

One of the first trends of the season that I have embraced fully for 2010, is the lingerie look. Boudoir dressing crossing over and onto the streets has become a huge hit on major runways and in retailers across the country. The look involves putting lingerie touches on an otherwise, more covered up outfit. For example, pairing a lacy bra under a sheer, tulle blouse, paired with a great pair of trousers and finished off with a chic boyfriend blazer. The idea of mixing the uber masculine with the ultra feminine works very well with this smashing trend. No one wants to see you in full-on bedroom attire, however, a little "peek-a-boo" of undergarment here and there is just the perfect touch to achieve a devilish but sophisticated look.

Louis Vuitton

I first fell for lingerie as everyday apparel after watching it strut down the catwalk during Louis Vuitton's Fall 2009 RTW show. Jacobs paired a sexy black lace bra with an over sized, brilliantly tailored black blazer, and a tiered mini with hot but sweet ribbon lace-up boots. It made me want to wear nothing but a bra under my blazer some day...when or if I ever get up the courage...

Rodarte for Target

I first purchased the look two weeks ago, the day that Rodarte launched it's line for Target. I literally sprang to the computer and ordered up almost every item in the collection. There are tons of lingerie inspired, lacy, girlie tulle and satin numbers to choose from. My favorite is the dress pictured below, which I snatched up in a spicy yellow. It is just so flirty and fun, and looks like a million bucks! Everyone was shocked when I told them it was from Target. Definitely Target's best collaboration yet (u must buy some, if there's anything left...).

Take a look at some of my other favorite lingerie looks of the season, they may inspire you to do some boudoir crossing of your own!

Givenchy

Richard Nicoll

Stella McCartney

Glamour's Woman of the Year: Stella McCartney: The Designer

Every year Glamour comes out with its picks for whom them believe are the "Women of the Year". For 2009, the magazine has put together a list of ultra-impressive and amazingly interesting women, all from different backgrounds and each recognized for their special purpose. Some names on this list include: Rihanna "Back On Top!", Amy Poehler "The Entertainer", Maya Angelou "The Poet", and a special recognition for our First Lady: Michelle Obama. All of these ladies are magnificent in all their accomplishments, however, I was most happy to see that my fashion idol, Stella McCartney, was also chosen to appear on the list, being named "The Designer" of the year. Posted on the Glamour website, actress Natalie Portman was asked to state why she thinks Stella is women of the year, to which she answered, because "She is extending the definition of fashion to include compassion." I too have always believed that what sets Stella apart is her passion for making a difference in the world, and for making women feel empowered and completely gorgeous.

As I have said before, there is absolutely no designer whom I admire more than Stella McCartney. I have always been a huge fan of her work and vision, and I was extremely lucky to work for her at the NYC Press Office over the past two summers. The time that I spent invested in her company opened up a whole new appreciation for me; for her as a designer, for her designs, and for fashion in general. Even to this very day, I still look through magazines and subconsciously search for mentions of Stella, and when come across one, I get this overwhelming feeling of pride and excitement. I believe in everything Stella is about, whether it be her love for designing wearable and feminine clothes that make women feel pretty, or her never-ending dedication to living a green lifestyle, and as a animal rights activist. She is simply fantastic in every sense of the word, and she sure knows how to make clothes that look beautiful and effortless on real women. I predict that this will not be Stella's last recognition as an influential woman, and I can't wait to see what her next venture will be!

Pick up a copy of Glamour to get the whole story, or check it out on their website: www.glamour.com/women-of-the-year/2009/stella-mccartney