Insanity and Style

Drunk and Hot Girls

2007-09-11T20:38:00.000-07:00

Whoever says that Marni isn't sexy has obviously never seen these shoes...

...or these mittens...

From Mona Moore

Loan Shark

2007-09-09T10:48:00.000-07:00

I was so utterly confounded and enthralled by the Rodarte show. At some points (meaning about half of the show) I felt like I had seen these looks before, in a strange, strange way. They mixed Lanvin's SS07 (tulle and silk cocktail dresses with strappy necklines and pleating, as well as slicked-back hair), Balenciaga from like 3 years ago (lace and skinny pants with metallics) and Chanel (one bizarre tweed suit and some frothy white dresses) into a revolting but kind of likable array of dresses and separates. And yet there were other looks, mainly dresses, that were beautiful, ethereal, and worthy of the most divine of fairies and princesses. I felt as if I had seen it all before, and I'm completely ambivalent toward it. I honestly don't know what to make of this show.
The influences:

The results:

Pictures from Style.com

I Think I'm Turning Japanese

2007-09-08T11:48:00.000-07:00

Balenciaga
And A.A. with flouro pink
Eyes makes me happy.

At the risk of a
Cliché, Vlada works the vibe
Of Lolita and

Alice Liddle, with
Her kneesocks, garden setting,
And her very smug gaze.

The simplicity
Of the black dress and Chanel
Bag let the beauty

Of the degradé,
Curved heel, high gloss Prada
Shoes shine even more.

Run faster, blondie!
Your long sweater and long locks
Trail behind you as

You pass the truck of
The Manhattan Fruit Exchange.
You are surely late.

Severe ruby hair
Gleams against china skin and
Scarlet lips. Your shirt

Is crisp and clean and
A dominatrix would wear
Those boots. Your bike is

Fabulous and it
Complements the blouse and hair.
You are quite striking.

A silk headband and
Hovering fringe complete the
Twenties spirit of

The dress. Her skin is
Dewy and she wears earrings
Of diamond. But,

Please, lay off the coke,
Irina Lazareanu.
It is not healthy.

Burn It

2007-08-29T23:01:00.000-07:00

It seems that Cory Kennedy-Levin has taken a natural step in her hipster poster child evolution, and contributed vocals to an electro record by Heartsrevolution that will be sold at Colette. Despite, or perhaps because of the fact, that you can't tell that it's her singing, without knowing beforehand, it's pretty decent. The beats are fine and there's an apocolyptic/danse macabre theme to the lyrics that goes quite nicely with the fact that it's CKL singing. Give a listen at Heartsrevolution's myspace (it's called Prism Effect w CK).

The Clouded Mind

2007-08-20T18:29:00.000-07:00

"According to RG Vogue, model Fernanda Motta has been confirmed as the presenter of Brazil's Next Top Model, the national franchise of Tyra Banks' popular show. The panel of judges will include designer Alexandre Herchcovitch, editor Erika Palomino, and Paulo Borges, responsible for São Paulo Fashion Week. The winner will be featured on the cover of Elle Brazil and score a modeling contract with Ford. The show will debut on Sony on October 3."

Mr. Herchovitch is certainly a strange choice for those of us familiar with the American version of Top Model, in all its camp and unrealistic glory. An actual, reputable, well-known designer being featured on the show is a bit of an anomaly, especially the talented Herchovitch, with his avant garde bent. I'm really excited that Brazillians and copyright violaters alike will get to see a bit of real-world fashion on TV, particularly since that real-world fashion is sold at my favorite store. This sort of exposure is wonderful, and once I learn Portuguese, I'll definitely be watching.

Story source: RG Vogue via madeinbrazil.typepad.com

Panthers in Crime

2007-08-15T23:07:00.000-07:00

Now, normally Numéro bores me just a tiny parsec, just because I feel like they don't really try new things or step outside the box very much (like that whole Freja with cameras shot by Karl spread, what in Chalayan was that?!) but I'm really drawn into (haha, get it?) their September issue. It has Sasha P. on the cover, as a slightly cracked-out version of Jessica Rabbit, shot by Camilla Akrans. The cover, with Sasha's gaunt face and piercing eyes peeking out from impeccable red waves, and her skeletal figure swathed in an embellished Dior dress, is striking and a great subversion of the universally attractive sexpot Ms. Rabbit. Especially seeing as how Sasha's beauty is, so, uh, debated. The rest of the editorial isn't as special, but it's still pretty and luxurious, et cetera. I also really enjoy Karl's shoot featuring strong, black, couture pieces reminiscent of super heroes. It's powerful and crisp, and although it's not that unique, I really like the images. Now go forth, children, and imbibe!

Photo cred: TFS

Death of a Shade of a Hue

2007-08-15T00:40:00.000-07:00

Over a sea of grief Scarlet died

Above her dying mind were fossilfied memory imprints of her favorite day

For a minute I stayed watching this brilliant display

Until a god with a broom came and swept them away

In their bereavement all of her colorful friends

Turned to a milky grey depressing blend

Which incidentally made Grey feel inane

So he set off to find a less trite identity

One as stunning and bold as Scarlet used to be

Photo cred: Me, Cobrasnake, COACD, Misshapes, Nylon, Patrick Wolf's website

Smoking Kills

2007-08-15T00:31:00.000-07:00

It's true that the French are more fashion-conscious than Americans.

It's Gruesome that Someone so Handsome Should Care

2007-08-15T00:23:00.000-07:00

George-Michael is lookin' fly, ladies and gentlemen. I love Michael Cera's sensitive-intelligent-dandy-but-still-fairly-normal vibe, and how he pulls off the Thom Brown-style cropped trousers. There's a truely nuanced mix of irony and earnestness in it that I find so charming and intriguing. The suit is superb, I'm so stoked dude to see Superbad (insert pun about how it looks supergood here), and needless to say, after this Friday, I will constantly proclaim myself "McLovin."

I'm All About You

2007-07-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

My regrets, but between AP's, finals, parties, and jaunts to France, I've been terribly busy. But soon I&S will be back in full bloom, just like Mariacarla returning to the runway at Givenchy Haute Couture!

Nobody Ain't Laughin' Now

2007-05-29T22:46:00.000-07:00

So, yes, I know that Coachella was a month ago, but I recently (as in a half-hour ago) stumbled across these photos of the concert on Style.com. They're shot by scene photographer Jeremy Kost, and Style.com even had the gall to put them on the website in Polaroid format. This set makes me sick in a strange, wonderful way. Some of them are actually interesting, with soft, beautiful lighting and a cool balance of spontaniety and vanity. However, most are either just trite and Myspace profile pic-worthy, or careless and pointless.
There's just something so bizarre about Vogue's website, which normally features Tory Burch bags and red carpet pictures of Reese Witherspoon, try to hard to cozy up to the hipster crowd. I know that Vogue and its cohorts have extended the olive branch of photo shoots and kiss-ass blurbs to certain select scenesters, specifically the MisShapes, but it's never been extreme before. I can't help but think this was more of a decision on the W side of things, rather than Vogue's choice. However, Vogue and its mainstream agenda must have had some influence, seeing as how shots of random concert-goers, obscure celebrities, and musicians are peppered with appearances by Paris Hilton and Lindsay Lohan. Intriguing...

Radio, Live Transmission

2007-05-28T22:16:00.000-07:00

Qu'est-ce que vous pensez? The French subtitles are a bit distracting, but Control seems pretty well made. I don't know if it's fair to compare its accuracy to the real Ian Curtis and Joy Division, but as a story itself, it looks kind of entertaining.

Blue Turning Gray

2007-05-28T01:05:00.000-07:00

Look Gemma, I appreciate the effort, and the comittment you brought to this look, but really, when you're a supermodel wearing next season's Balenciaga at a gala in Cannes, you do not need the cokewhore hair and makeup. The dress and shoes are strong enough on their own, and with the finger-in-the-electrical-socket hair style you're rockin', it looks like you have no neck. Good try though.

Naomi, you're fabulous and all, but there's something very strange about the bangs and Dolce Gabanna bondage dress combination that I'm not loving. Maybe the haircut is too evocative of the '90s, or soccer moms or something. The point is, fix it before I get Spartan on your ass.

But on the positive side, Morgane, with the JPG, bob, and all, wins.

pic source: style.com

The Wrong Girl

2007-05-22T21:05:00.000-07:00

You guys, Eva Green is really quite majestic. I'm not sure if any other actress could pull off this Dior HC gown as well as she does. The smoldering eyes, the porcelain complexion, the slightly haughty demeanor...she looks like she came right off the runway (of course, sans the giant chairs and overly complex platform shoes). It's dramatic, beautiful, and infinitely superior to just about everything else you see on the red carpet.

Photo source: evagreenweb.com

And while we're on the subject of smokin' hot French actors at Cannes, I'd just like to interject that Louis Garrel is really quite amazing-looking, in sort of an ugly, unkempt way.

Photo source: Louisgarrel.net

Black Plastic

2007-05-19T11:24:00.000-07:00

The Temperly for Target thumbnails are up, and aside from the fact that most of the looks are an exercise in banality, I'm loving the gamine-chic vibe of these cropped pants, and the swanky, swing coat-line of this sweater/belt combination. Alas, I'm not too excited for the rest of the collection, which seems to consist of drab babydoll dresses, strangely cut skirts, and one black and white printed sweater that is a total assault on the senses.

But perhaps even more dissappointing is the Devi Kroell for Target collection. Kroell's sumptuous accessories are reliant on exotic, expensive, beautiful materials. Without those resources, these simple shapes and colors just fall flat. They're made of cheap plastic, and they look like it. I love Kroell's main line, but this diffusion collection is really bland.

Spirit They've Vanished

2007-05-15T23:28:00.000-07:00

Alright, so I like a lot of the clothes from Dior Resort '08. Even if they're not exactly something I'd wear, I appreciate the vibrance and silhouettes, and the fact that most of them are very chic while managing to be lurid and mildly ostentatious. However, this...

...happens to veer a little too far into the "Elizabeth Taylor on LSD runs into my 75-year-old step-grandmother in a bar and the two hit it off and decide to go to a party in her Florida retirement community and this is what Liz suggests for her to wear" territory. That said, I think the cut of the coat is fantastic. Alas, if I saw anyone, anywhere, at any time, wearing this whole ensemble together, I would have to fight very hard resist the urge to light fire to their hair.

Precipitate

2007-05-15T23:22:00.000-07:00

I have been alllllll over the place lately, and apparently I missed out on this, from the Herald Sun:
"An accused rapist dubbed the "fire fiend" planned to murder the feared fashion editor who inspired the novel and film The Devil Wears Prada.

Anna Wintour, the legendarily frosty and demanding editor-in-chief of style guide American Vogue, was allegedly intended as a victim of accused kidnapper Peter Braunstein.

The New York Post revealed that Braunstein ranted in a personal manifesto, read to a court, about killing Wintour. He wrote: "So I'll tell you why I'm going to kill Anna Wintour -- because I just feel like it."

Braunstein, a former fashion writer, has admitted dressing as a New York firefighter and setting off two homemade smoke bombs to trick his way into a co-worker's apartment on Halloween, October 31, 2005. He has confessed to holding a gun to the victim's head, drugging her with chloroform, and then stripping her and binding her to her bed. Wearing a black ski mask, he then raped her over a 13-hour period in her Chelsea apartment in New York.

His defence team argues the acts were committed unintentionally because of his severe mental illness.

Braunstein was earlier sacked as a fashion media critic for Women's Wear Daily after causing a fuss when he found he'd received only one ticket to the Vogue Fashion Awards.

Braunstein penned his manifesto in the months leading up to the attack on his co-worker at Fairchild Publications.

The New York Post reported that no details of Braunstein's were disclosed in court, apart from his saying that Wintour's death was to be up close and personal.

Wintour is widely believed to have been the inspiration for the fashion editor in The Devil Wears Prada, a character played in the hit film by Meryl Streep.

The Post said that according to parts of the manifesto, read aloud in the jury's absence in Manhattan Supreme Court, Braunstein wrote that just shooting Wintour would be "too impersonal". Braunstein also reportedly celebrated late '70s serial killer Son of Sam (David Berkowitz) and the Columbine High School shooters Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold.

The New York Post said that Braunstein had also admired Andrew Cunanan for his 1997 Miami Beach murder of fashion designer Gianni Versace. And he even applauded fictional killer Hannibal Lecter as an important criminal literary figure "because of his intellect".

Last week, jurors also heard about Braunstein's loathing for Wintour, the Post reported. He wrote that she "just never talked to peons like us . . . It was beneath her. And all the while I'm thinking 'Who is this skank?' "

He said she played up a "let them eat cake" Marie Antoinette-style regal attitude, but "all she does is edit a magazine -- that's it. So what's with the royalty routine?"

Braunstein also wrote: "Wintour will be escorted by eunuchs to a place in Hell run entirely by large rats. Even Satan can't get in there, because he and the rats had a falling-out a couple of millennia ago.

"The rats, apparently, are unionised and Satan tried to break the union; there's been a lot of bad blood ever since."

The trial continues."

I mean, I don't like the woman, but this seems to go a bit far.

Crackhouse Blues

2007-04-22T13:38:00.000-07:00

Okay children, this is why Stam is one of the best models working today, and why "Jennifer" will forever be known J.Lo.

Somehow You've Red-Rovered the Gestapo Circling My Heart

2007-04-20T18:22:00.000-07:00

"Revelation," an editorial in this month's W, shot by Mario Sorrenti and styled by Alex White, hauntingly displays poppy, body-conscious, vivid clothes in a creepy, horror movie way. The combination of shiny lipstick red Lanvin pumps and electric blue Donna Karan bodysuits with shadows and cracked floors is startling. It's like The Grudge, Barney's-style.
See more at style.com.

Down for So Long

2007-04-19T20:26:00.000-07:00

Oh man. These new advertisements featuring Natalia V for Calvin Klein underwear are smoldering. They're effortless, beautiful, and modern, and they really make me want to buy the lingerie. Natalia looks so amazing that I just couldn't help but post about these. See more at the "Natalia's Room" website.

Dismissed

2007-04-13T23:13:00.000-07:00

Oh Kate, whatever will we do with you? When Pete Doherty is the one helping you from falling out of the window, you know it's gotten pretty bad.

Photo cred: pop sugar

Mis-shapes, Mistakes, Misfits

2007-04-11T17:18:00.000-07:00

Whether it's the crisp lines of a Jil Sander shirt, or the conical heel of a Lanvin shoe, the essence of good design often seems to be geometry and structure. The awareness of space, lines, and shapes in a garment or accessory give it intelligence and a certain beauty. Crisp, clean, ruler-made lines are everywhere this spring. My favorite geometric pieces of the moment...
Dior's linear wedge is simultaneously graceful and strong (available at eluxury.com).

The triangular stitching of Marc Jacobs' patchwork Stam purse adds interest and a fresh tilt to a once-hackneyed bag.

Proenza Schouler's impeccable pleating and lines create a gorgeous shape that's both modern and body-conscious.

The colorblocking, concept of negative space, and clean lines of this Miu Miu outfit render it striking and clean.

The 3-D shape and sharp edges of Lena Wald's pyramid earring are unexpected and slick.

(I Believe In) Travellin' Light

2007-04-08T15:43:00.000-07:00

I've been on holiday for the past week and a half or so, and unfortunately, my brand new, super-cool, old-school, funky-fresh Marc by Marc suitcase is stuck somewhere between Munich and Los Angeles. It should be here eventually, but really, my life is in that suitcase. It pains me to think of possibly losing my Sigerson Morrison flats, my Notify cords, my vintage cashmere sweaters, my Eberjay lingerie, my Marc by Marc loafers! I'm managing, but it's very hard. This is the cost of traveling in style. You want to look good on vacation, so you pack good clothes, but then you risk losing them in the hysteria that is baggage checking. But travel in style I must, so there's really no other option. And if you want to travel in style, you need good luggage. I simply wuv my Marc by Marc (which I will definitely take pictures of when it returns to me), but I'd go crazy over...
Something from the Vuitton Epi leather collection. It's so posh and slick, while remaining relatively understated. Quiet luxury, one might say.

Bottega Veneta's travel line is in the same vein of unassuming and subtle chic. It's even less flashy than Vuitton, and to me, has a more exclusive feeling to it.
Vuitton's Damier collection is good too, but it seems like the sort of thing I'd paint designs all over to keep it from seeming too trashy or new money. Just imagine it DIY Stephen Sprouse style, with Of Montreal lyrics and cute little bunnies painted all over it. Nice.

I'd completely avoid the Monogram Vuitton series, because, well, I sincerely don't think I'm one of those people who could use it without evoking Jessica Simpson. I think you either have to be extremely polished and European-looking or very edgy in a CDG way to work it. Maybe it'd look okay all beaten-up and weathered, but otherwise, this collection isn't for me.

Of course, we can't forget Goyard. Nothing screams "I have money and maybe some semblance of refinement!" quite like its chevron print canvas pieces.

Hermes is the ultimate in luggage, though. The quality and old money cool factor of the incredibly pricey French house is unparalleled.

Accidents

2007-03-27T21:35:00.000-07:00

Alright Rachel, we need to have a talk. I'm a fan, in general, of your trendy-ladylike tilt on things and your delectably feminine line, but this outfit is just a little too much. Seperately, all the pieces work. The Prada turban is glamorous and just a little creepy, which I love. The Lanvin trench is classic and dominatrix-worthy. The Roger Vivier shoes are flashy without being overbearing, but perhaps veer into old lady territory. The intense bracelet and leopard clutch are maybe a little hackneyed, but still fine. However, when you put it all together, the outfit just begs for attention, and not in a good Marc Jacobs SS07 way. It's more of an "I'm a desperate aging actress who is losing her grip on reality" way. All the components are competing for attention, and instead of looking chic and risk-taking, it looks stupid. I'm not mad, Rachel, I'm just dissappointed.
Photo cred: style.com

A Space Boy Dream

2007-03-26T23:08:00.000-07:00

Although the inspiration for Sabrina Dehoff's whimsical jewelry ranges from ghosts to Lotus Eaters to residents of the moon, she knows how to translate all of it into wearable art. The Berlin-based designer's work is unique, employing materials like leather and plastic along with gold and silver. The ideas behind the pieces are conceptual and poetic, and Dehoff presents the jewelry equally as beautifully with amazing catalogue shots, thus making it both avant-garde and accessible. Her work ranges from cute (pure white hearts and a tasteful Mickey Mouse necklace) to sexy (gold serpents and slinky black panthers on gold chains) to fanciful (gold cutouts of gems) to tough (handgun necklaces and bracelets featuring cowboys) and everything in between. And though her jewelry and inspirations are varied, Dehoff executes her designs with a degree of sleekness and charm that makes her work distinct. For more info, see her website.

From "Little Helpers," Dehoff's FW06 collection:

From "Little Dreamers," her SS07 collection:

From "Erratic Blocks From the Trip to the Moon," her FW07 collection:

You Go Disco and I'll Go My Way

2007-03-25T21:56:00.000-07:00

Monochromatics with a focus on form and texture look stylized and urbane.
Clockwise from top left: Givenchy dress at Luisaviaroma.com; Coco's card at Elite; Marc Jacobs dress at net-a-porter.com; Jimmy Choo clutch at net-a-porter.com; Freja for Balmain SS07.

Another Wasted Night

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

Christina, I know you're trying to go for the whole "old Hollywood-classic-sexy" look, but this just...isn't right. The see-through dress could work on its own, were it not worn on top of a painfully bland Victoria's Secret bra. If you're going to show your lingerie, at least make sure it's hot. The pantyhose do you no good either -- they just increase the poorly done showy-and-fake factor of the whole outfit. You cannot pull off carrying a briefcase for the life of you, it just looks costume-y. The hip-slung belt makes your hips veer into bovine-like territory, and it's very cheap looking. And don't even get me started on the porn star makeup or miles of cotton enveloping your neck. It's not a pretty sight. Basically my dear, you try too hard.

Good Morning Starshine

2007-03-18T10:07:00.000-07:00

Darla Baker is a fox, plain and simple.

Ocean of Noise

2007-03-17T10:50:00.000-07:00

Sorry I haven't posted in so long, but I've been studying the Great War and stochiometry with intensity, whilst wearing Comme des Garçons and Lewis Cho, of course. Many things have happened in the world of fashion while I've been away. Marc Jacobs went into rehab, which is good for him, but I hope he doesn't get entirely clean, because he seems to do his best while just slightly tweaked. Too many drugs, though, result in cheap YSL rehashes. Also, the house of Halston has been ressurected, with Rachel Zoe involved as a stylist. This should be interesting. And by interesting, I mean tripe shoved down our throats by US Weekly and In Style, with maybe the occasional decent dress. And of course, I found more things that I want.
Helmut Lang's open-weave knit tank strikes the perfect balance between simple, slutty, and wierd.

Everytime I see Bing Bang's swan belt, I want to burst out into song. Swans, swans, swans sing songs...all night loooong...

And Celestina's mother-of-pearl Cambridge clutch is gorgeously futuristic while remaining soft and natural. It reminds me a lot of Calvin Klein.

All are available at Barney's.

Damaged Goods

2007-03-06T23:06:00.000-08:00

It's anecdote time. So the other day, my friends who are going to Italy over spring break were talking about how "Milan is the fashion capital of the world." I overhear this, and I cannot help but interject and share some Cartier pearls of wisdom.
Me: "Uh, sorry, but Milan just isn't the fashion capital of the world."
Friend #1: "What? Isn't it, like really famous for fashion?"
Me: "Yeah, but I wouldn't exactly refer to it as the fashion capital of the world."
Friend #2: "Then what is?"
Me: "Paris. Even though Italian craftsmanship is fantastic, the variety and calibur of design seen in Paris is just, in general, amazingly better than what's seen in Milan."
...pause...
Friend #1: "Oh yeah, I remember on My Super Sweet 16, this girl went to Paris to buy her dress because she said it was the fashion capital of the world."
I then use all the willpower I can muster up to keep myself from smashing myself over the head with my French textbook until my golden locks are soaked with blood.
This are just some of the reasons, taken from the last day of PFW, why Paris is it...

Olivier

Alber

Marc actually making pretty clothes.

Sophia

The fact that Miu Miu is shown there, at least for the time being.

Tony the Beat

2007-03-03T22:36:00.000-08:00

What do you make of a Chloé show where the shoes are atrocious and the clothes are actually decent? It's a change, that's for sure. Plenty of vinyl, truely insanely ugly shoes, backless dresses, and lots of red...oh my! The new Chloé girl is tougher, uglier, and much more adventurous than before. Although there was definitely more of an '80s influence, there were still nods to the now classic, Philo-60s-vintage style, with embroidered sheaths and plenty of shorts. New head designer Paolo Melim Andersson seemed to pull inspiration from a host of other designers. The shoes could have been from a Marc Jacobs show, the sunglasses from Karen Walker, and half the clothes themselves pulled from Marni. But mixed together, it seemed at least fairly new and a fresh direction for the long-standing look of the brand.

Going Missing

2007-03-02T06:45:00.000-08:00

Note to Anna Dello Russo:

That is how you wear Christopher Kane.

Not like this. The slouch and copious amounts of jewelry do you no good.

Dress Up In You

2007-03-01T22:36:00.000-08:00

So, yes, runways have always been showcases for the most extreme and attention-grabbing of clothes, but for AW07, it seems as if this statement dressing, whether in the form of a brightly patterned Balenciaga dress or a sharply cut Dior suit, is emerging as a real trend. Outfits, even singular garments, that you really need moxy to wear properly are extremely prevalent this season. These clothes aren't the easy, breezy sack dresses and white blouses of former seasons. It takes a certain person to pull off these new pieces, be they harem pants, mixed textures, or vivid gowns. Maybe it's the designers' way of telling the public that fashion is still relevant, yet special, and deserves attention that's not in the form of weight debates or knockoff lawsuits. Or it could be a manifestation of the sickness people feel over apathy and lack of effort, whether it's in an H&M dress or a low voter turnout. Whatever the reason, it's pretty.
Thakoon

Temperley

Fendi

Zac Posen

Dior

Chris Kane

Marni

Balenciaga

Vampire Forest Fire

2007-03-01T22:29:00.000-08:00

J'aime aussi...
This shot from the Sartorialist from PFW. The outfit is so chic yet street-wise, and this woman really seems like she knows what she's doing, you know?

Christian Lacroix's half-goth, half-acid-fairy confections.

Emina

Morgane and her new crop

When There's a Will, There's a Whalebone

2007-03-01T20:53:00.000-08:00

J'aime...
Sophia Kokosalaki's edgy, sculptural, and gloriously detailed garments.

The way that the insane studs and ruffles at Givenchy somehow looked completely cool and easy.

Hit to Death in the Future Head

2007-03-01T18:47:00.000-08:00

Hussein Chalayan is a genius. No one blends beauty and technology as spectacularly as he does, and I'm not sure if anyone will. Everything he does is fresh, original, and gorgeous. Really, the man defines the word unique. I don't know what else there is to say.

Vivrant Thing

2007-02-28T22:16:00.000-08:00

Balenciaga FW07 really got some mixed reactions, mainly because the collection itself was so mixed. Gorgeous silk tribal prints, combined with nautical pants, sporty-tech plastic shoes, and white eyebrows? I dub it "haute hipster," or possibly "scene-chic." And I think it works. The ethnic-print dresses in themselves were amazingly beautiful, with their vibrant colors and louche-yet-intricate draping. The pants were great in a preppy-dandy sort of way, and the blazers were just, for lack of a better word, neat. The shoes were show-stopping works of art, not quite pretty, but always attention-commanding. Although this collection isn't quite up to par with some of Nic's other collections, it's still unique, fresh, beautiful, and cool. And with all the variety, there's a lot to love. And when you think about it, it's just like Nicolas to completely switch up his inspirations, from the future and robots one season, to hipsters and random city-types this season. That motion and modernity, combined with impeccable workmanship and beautiful clothes, is completely Balenciaga.

Missus B Missus E Missus A-U-T Missus I Missus F-U-L

2007-02-28T22:05:00.000-08:00

Dior FW07 is not for the weak. This collection is for strong, powerful, memorable, glamorous women who know how to make an entrance, and pull off embellished satin dresses without looking like Beyonce. This is statement dressing, old-school glamour with an avant garde twist. This is magic.

John has been such a good boy lately.

Is It So Wrong...?

2007-02-27T17:48:00.000-08:00

Balmain: As beautiful as most of these clothes are, and even despite the fact that I'm willing to overlook the flared pants, there's still something wrong with this show. I saw the first two outfits (On Daria and Racquel, above), and I thought "This is gorgeous and of-the-moment." But then as the show went on, I realized that no matter how luxurious and ethereal but still powerful these pieces are, they seem dated. The 80s silhouettes and the metallics just seem so out of touch after all the '40s and '20s influences seen on other runways. I know it's just the trend whore in me saying this, but it all feels a little old. None the less, there were some amazing pieces, and as a whole, the show was beautiful.

Me Plus One

2007-02-27T17:27:00.000-08:00

Viktor & Rolf: My boys are back! After a strange and sometimes-tacky SS07 show, they really went all-out for their presentation. With lighting rigs and steel beams connected to the clothing, which in itself was cute and often nondescript and said to be inspired by traditional Dutch garments, they beautifully juxtaposed the old and the new, the weak and the strong, the modest and the self-important. Cool.

Final Fantasy

2007-02-25T12:51:00.000-08:00

Marc Jacobs-designed clothes that are full of ruffles and whimsy are the perfect accompaniment to Willy Vanderperre's new ed in the New York Times style magazine.

Technologic

2007-02-25T12:48:00.000-08:00

Hussein, Nicolas, Francisco, and Miuccia are all feelin' the futurism. Click to enlarge.

Kiss You Better

2007-02-24T15:32:00.000-08:00

I wuv...

The fact that Darla opened Luisa Beccaria

This Missoni clutch

That Marina wears the Balenciaga boots while chillin' backstage

The fact that Daria did a show this season (despite her horrid fake tan and the hideous Versace clothes she's sporting)

When Behati colors her friend's Converses

The makeup at Versace

Nature and the Wreck

2007-02-23T20:45:00.000-08:00

Fendi FW07 was...interesting. Underneath all the silky waves of supermodel hair and sky-high heels, there was pure animalistic fury. However, most of the time, that natural bent was covered up by odd shapes and tacky logos. There were some points where Karl really got it right, when he brought out the nature without completely suffocating it with patchwork leather and Sasquatch-like sleeves, and it was glamorous and attention-grabbing. There were some amazing furs, and the workmanship was undeniably good. Overall, it felt like the drunken, overly-botoxed, but sometimes fabulous stepmother to Giles FW07's young and crazy-cool socialite on peyote.

Just Can't Get Enough

2007-02-22T21:58:00.000-08:00

If any other designer (except maybe for Miuccia) put Freja on the runway wrapped in a plastic tarp, with oven mitts on her hands, I would come at them with a bayonet. But, somehow, Consuelo Castiglioni of Marni manages to pull it off. At the Marni FW07 show, models looked as if they were wrapped in artfully folded paper bags. There were odd shapes, unflattering sacks, PVC dresses, and copious amounts of layering. But what makes it work? The sporty, slouchy layers are made mostly of rich fabrics, and combined with slightly-off, glamorous accessories, while worn with a sense of whimsy, entitlement, and irreverence.

Parallel Lines

2007-02-22T21:47:00.000-08:00

Io amo (my best grasp at Italian)...
This picture of Tanya backstage at Cavalli

The angelic, quaint braids at Bottega Veneta

Hye's adorably minimal dress, and the smile she wears with it

The rich beauty and horrifying ugliness of the Prada show, combined with innovative accessories and exciting textures.

The old-school vamp hair and makeup at Gucci

Various Sartorial-ized homies

Photos: style.com

Objects of My Affection

2007-02-19T12:01:00.000-08:00

I love Nordic peoples...
Jens Lekman - Black Cab
The Knife - Heartbeats
The Concretes - Say Something New
Shout Out Louds - 100 Degrees
Peter Bjorn and John - Young Folks

Capturing Moods

2007-02-18T00:03:00.000-08:00

W, March 2007...good stuff...

"Ile de la Mode," featuring Sasha Pivovarova shot by Michael Thompson. I love the cripness, coldness, and elegance in these photos that one doesn't normally associate with the beach. It's decadent and whimsical in a whole new way. See the rest here.

"Welcome to My Life," shot by Mert and Marcus, with Snejana Onopka, Denisa Dvorakova, Kinée Diouf, and Coco Rocha. It's creepy, it's perverted, it's swanky, it's stylized, it's amazing. See the rest here.

100 Degrees

2007-02-17T09:47:00.000-08:00

CSM grad Louise Gray must really like Chris Kane, but really, someone needs to tell her the truth...

...these clothes aren't good enough to be worn by the janitor who cleans the floors of TopShop after the masses tear into the store for Kane's collection there, which is pretty weak anyway.

Age of Consent, Part II

2007-02-17T09:29:00.000-08:00

Central St. Martins show continued...
Seon Ju Kam: Ruffles, layers, peter pan collars, and all shades of white. Nothing new, but I like it for fall, and it's insanely adorable.

Mattijis Van Bergen: Gorgeous clothes, with incredible workmanship, and the pleating is lovely and versatile -- on one garment, it can be refined and almost boring, and on another, it can take on an experimental and eccentric feel.

Chemena Kamali: Rich and lightly layered fabrics, with interesting cuts and volume. The colors are classic for fall, but the interest of the clothes in themselves just makes it perfect. You need poise and style to pull off clothes like these, but when it works, it really works.

Age of Consent, Part I

2007-02-17T09:03:00.000-08:00

The Central St. Martins show...
Pavel Ivancic: Amazing tailoring, reminiscent of both Nic Ghesquiere and Viktor & Rolf. Clean and stunning.

Kryzsztof Strozyna: bold and structured, with a safari feeling. I think the giant accessories are a necessity to make the outfit more unique and interesting.

Jamie Bruski Tetsill: Giant appliqués which, when combined with most of the bright teals and turquoises, tend to look tacky and too vintage-inspired for my taste. However, on the grey chambray, it think it's cool and wearable, while still definitely standing out.

Anna Schmidt Risak: Between the paperbag waists, plaids, slouchy pants, and thigh-high hosiery, her collection seems very trendy in a grungey, fashion-forward sort of way. However, she makes it work with the structured belts and interesting layering.

Kumiko Watari: Even though this collection goes against nearly everything that I like, I feel like I had to mention it, just because...

Scott Ramsay Kyle: Okay, so the shoulders are henious, but I love the mix of sportswear and high-end embroidery. Even though it shouldn't, it looks totally fresh.

More to come...

I'm Cool Like That

2007-02-16T23:48:00.000-08:00

Currently feeling...
Simple, one-layer outfits, with polished and interesting accessories. Nice.
Click to enlarge.

Pictures from net-a-porter and Barney's.

Naughty by Nature

2007-02-16T13:56:00.000-08:00

Giles: Nature girl meets 21st century London, manifested through hedgehog quills, feathers, massively chunky knits, patchwork, animal skins, and the occasional blindingly neon fabric. Aesthetically pleasing? Not always, but it was fresh, fun, and amazingly cool. The natural motifs seem like something I haven't seen in a while, especially in this way, and the construction of the garments themselves was innovative and beautiful. Despite the collection's lack of cohesiveness, there was a lot to love.

You Take My Breath Away

2007-02-15T19:13:00.000-08:00

Nice nice nice...
Roksanda Ilincic's frothy, quirky dresses in freshly pretty and simple colors.

Paul Smith's trendy yet unique take on studious British chic.

True Mathematics

2007-02-13T22:22:00.000-08:00

We all know it. And Henry, I appreciate it when people own up to what they can, or in this case, cannot do. Most of your tee shirts for FW07 suck, by the way.

Maple Leaves

2007-02-13T22:13:00.000-08:00

Chris Kane: So, I loved his last collection. The textures, the colors, the fits, the fabrics...it was all very fresh and wonderful looking. But for this follow up collection, I was fairly dissappointed. These clothes seemed to be missing the intricacy and detail applied to the SS07 ones, and they just don't seem as special, but much more tacky. I'm ambivalent to the all the leather use, because with some garments, it looked too fake, awkward, and separate from the body, while with other pieces, the structure and cut was just perfect. Chris went a little heavy on the velvet, too, but I adored all the origami pleating (which seems to be a massive trend). I also really loved all the reds, since we haven't seen that in a while. So the collection wasn't really bad, but compared to his SS07 one, it's a step down.

Catch

2007-02-10T09:42:00.000-08:00

If you live in the New York City or Los Angeles area, GO!

I got Prada heels, which were $500, for $145.

A Comme des Garçons tee shirt with a bolero attached, $149 marked down from $590.
As a bolero:

As a tee:

And a Paul Smith bag, $289 marked down from $600.

Push Me, and Then Just Touch Me

2007-02-10T00:59:00.000-08:00

Me gusta...
Vena Cava's cutely rumpled, romantic wanderer look, consisting of up-for-anything layers, flowing shapes, and subtle ethnic influences.

Costello Tagliapietra's masterful cutting and draping skills, which achieved an avant-garde yet ladylike look.

Julia Roitfeld looking every bit the French socialite in a fur coat and a Thakoon dress.

The Sartorialist's awesome street style finds.

These Are The Fables

2007-02-10T00:36:00.000-08:00

Calvin Klein: Gorgeously minimal, with rich textures and interesting, but at times unflattering, silhouettes. Although grey was huge this past fall/winter, Costa made it look fresh again by mixing in warmer colors.

J Mendel: Classic, conventional, sometimes pretty. I loved the old Hollywood hair and makeup, but I usually look forward to their gorgeous, empire-waisted princess gowns, and there was a severe lack this season. Eh.

Zac Posen: In the very beginning and very end of the show, there were some really great, body-conscious cuts that were reminiscent of Mouret. Of course, there were some extremely hideous pieces, and I didn't find most of the collection to be aesthetically pleasing. There was too much ruching, ruffling, and pleating, and as a whole, the show didn't seem cohesive. However a few gorgeous dresses stood out.

Dirty Dream #2

2007-02-08T16:55:00.000-08:00

Proenza Schouler: Rich and a lot of early 20th century inspirations, but it still managed to be laid-back and cool though monochromatics and slouchy pants. Lots of embellishment, and lots of luxurious fabrics. I like.

The Prince's Bed

2007-02-07T20:11:00.000-08:00

Who wins...
Anja, who somehow pulls off a hideous MJ bag and a dress that seems to have fur tribal symbols on it.

Coco

Carol Winberg. Seriously.

Lindsay loses.

The Next Episode

2007-02-07T19:45:00.000-08:00

Some brief recaps...
Derek Lam: Not what I'm used to seeing from him, but it was edgy, sexy, and interesting while remaining cute (for the most part). Although monochromatics and toughness are nothing new this season, he made them look fresh by using patches, piping, and avant-garde cuts.

Doo.Ri: There was some major-overkill-fug, but there were also many pleasing, lightweight, expertly draped pieces. The girl knows how to make a basic dress, but sometimes she goes overboard on the layers and decoration. And the use of teal.

Temperly: Mixed feelings. The colors were great, but the shapes seemed trite and boring (too many bubble skirts and Chloé-esque schoolgirl outfits). The long gowns were gorgeous and unique in their combination of romance (lace, the length) and modernism (bold colors and geometry). The headdresses were fabulously opulent as well.

I Could Be Dreaming

2007-02-06T18:44:00.000-08:00

Thakoon FW07 consisted of gorgeous textures, marvelous colors, rich fabrics, and all around beautiful clothes. The feather motif was unique and sweet, and the 1920s silhouettes, as prevalent as they've been for 2007, were still fresh and lovely. I loved the layered chiffon and intricate details, like the beading and piping. I'm totally tripping on cropped, slightly puffy pants right now, and this collection was full of them. The flowing and light dresses and blouses with the thick and winter-ready pants and coats contrasted and complemented each other perfectly. Thakoon perfectly blended elements of futurism, sportswear, flapper style, and volume trends from the '50s and '60s, and I loved it.

You Don't Send Me

2007-02-06T18:33:00.000-08:00

Je n'aime pas...
Matthew Williamson's bulky shapes and distastefully bright colors.

The ugly alpaca outfits and tacky prints at Marc Jacobs.

Abaete's redonkulous vinyl outfits.

Max Azria's unflattering layers and dated colors.

L-L-Love

2007-02-06T18:21:00.000-08:00

J'aime...
Erin Fetherston's dreamy flapper silhouettes, ethereal colors, and lovely prints and thigh-high socks.

Sasha and her Prada coat.

Jovovich-Hawk's flowing, black, 1920's-style dresses, with splashes of color.

Iselin's streetwise velvets and fur.

The precise but easy black eyes, combined with wind-tossed buns, at Luca Luca.

Props of Upper Class

2007-02-05T20:13:00.000-08:00

Lela Rose FW07 was...pretty! The girl knows how to make clothes that all girls want to, and can wear, with a definitely feminine vibe. However, I loved the cropped pants this season (they were so gamine-chic), as well as many of the sportswear influences. The t-strap pumps, colors and fabrics were gorgeous, too. As an inhabitant of Los Angeles, I also really appreciated how Rose blended the borders between spring and fall clothes, featuring both a massive cape and several whimsically flowy frocks. Although not particularly innovative (I spotted a bubble hem or two in there!), the collection was superb in its wearability and adorable appeal.

Beautiful Beats

2007-02-05T19:22:00.000-08:00

United Bamboo FW07 was truely gorgeous in my opinion. It consisted of classically studious and luxe sportswear with sharp and fresh cuts, worn with a sense of domination, purpose, and coolness. There was a motif of origami pleating that was fabulous and crip, and reminded me of Dior Couture's recent and marvelous show. The geometry in the garments isn't something that one usually sees for fall (for some reason, everyone likes it clean and crisp for spring, and more romantic and flowy for fall), but it looked awesome. I really appreciate the skill that it takes to revamp something that everyone does, and make it look simultaneously effortless and amazing, and the duo behind UB definitely did it.

Some People Ride The Wave

2007-02-04T22:57:00.000-08:00

My street style favorites from NY Fashion Week so far, courtesy of the Sartorialist at style.com.

I love how the outfit in itself is simple (yet well-cut), but she adds interest with crazy accessories, like the fur hat and the Marni bag.

Fucking tough, but still chic.

The hat just brings the whole ensemble together, and gives it this great, chill, cool girl vibe.

Utterly romantic and gritty.

Quirky and cute, and I love the colors, as well as the tights under the cropped pants, with wedges.

This World is Made of Paper

2007-02-04T22:45:00.000-08:00

The literal interpretations and boldness at Benjamin Cho were very interesting to me. From sleek dresses with massive plastic jewels on them, to an outfit in the process of being knit, to hands serving as the straps for gowns, it was crazy in a wearable way. Sure, some pieces were borderline-tacky, and those massive buttons were just unattractive, but it all depends on how it's worn and who wears it. Overall, I found the collection very entertaining and cute.

The Magician Vs. The Headache

2007-02-04T22:32:00.000-08:00

Philip Lim wants us to be half magician-half art student, Chloé-inspired girls for this upcoming fall/winter. I'm okay with that, but the collection wasn't that amazing. Yes, it was nice, but not nearly as fresh as his SS07 work. My main problem was the color palatte. The greys, khakis, and cremes so reminiscent of Chloé's (and everyone else's) recent collections, and it didn't seem new or interesting. And when there was the occasional splash of red, it was in a rehashed version of a Fendi dress from last fall, or a frock that looked like a bedsheet tied around the model. Still, I love Philip, there were some very lovely pieces, and the top hats were rather spectacular. Highlights:

Pictures from nymag.com

So Begins Our Alabee

2007-02-03T11:39:00.000-08:00

So far, not much is going on in Fashion week. We have Rag and Bone, who did equestrian-chic street wear, which was for the most part nice but boring, and I could have done without the newsboy caps. They did have some great tailoring, and the whole show had an upscale feel, despite the basicness and casual nature of the clothes.

There was also Yigal Azrouël, who did awesomely layered looks with a studious bent, featuring some very cool knitwear. There were dull parts of the collection, and nothing was really innovative, but I loved the louche feel and easiness of it.

My Coco

2007-02-03T11:30:00.000-08:00

What are Coco's favorite couture pieces? Find out at style.com.

Your Beauty is a Knife I Turn On My Throat

2007-02-02T23:29:00.000-08:00

May I just say, not only is he impossibly gorgeous, and French, but Gaspard Ulliel can dress, too! Damn, boy. Look at those lapels. And those eyes. Sigh.

Pic from ONTD.

Better Safe Than Safari

2007-02-01T19:02:00.000-08:00

Atta girl, Sienna! There's nothing I appreciate more than violence and some nice monochromatics. Although the boots are annoying, the quilted Chanel isn't disgusting, and the Ray Bans and the black leather jacket are rather boss.

Source: ONTD

Bunny Ain't No Kind of Rider

2007-02-01T18:48:00.000-08:00

The bob is definitely gaining popularity, as we've already seen with my bitch Nix, and now with two newer mannequins, Noreen Carmody at NYM (source: Raddest Right Now), and Margaret at Vision (source: COACD). It's versatile, chic, and it just seems right for this moment in fashion, especially with all the '20s influences this season.

I'm Rich, Like a Hot Noise

2007-02-01T18:37:00.000-08:00

I actually love the way Testino, by way of French Vogue, has shot this bizarre mix of socialites, fashion people, royals, actors and under-the-radar rich kids. It's soft and romantic in a glamorous way, which kind of makes me ignore that fact that most of these people are completely undeserving of their fame and money. And that fact just makes it even more fabulous.
Note: The page featuring Paris Hilton has been consciously excluded from I&S. Yes sir.
Source: TFS

The Boy Done Wrong Again

2007-01-30T17:21:00.000-08:00

Dear Sienna,
We've all had our ups and downs with you. Mostly downs. Back in the boho era, you were queen of prarie skirts and gilets, and you rocked them out, even though sometimes you looked like a Romanian gypsy, and eventually it became really played out. Then you started to think that you actually were Edie Sedgwick, instead of just playing her in a poorly directed movie featuring terrible acting and costume design. For a brief moment it was cool, but you went a little overboard with it, wearing ugly clothes, becoming too much of a trend whore, and frankly, a little creepy. Recently, you've seemed to clean up a little, going medieval-chic in Marchesa for the Golden Globes, or sporting simple, breezy dresses. No matter what, you've almost always had interesting outfits, and quite the style evolution, and aside from the fact that you're only famous in the USA for fucking Jude Law and having some semblance of a sense of style, I (sort of) respect you for that.
Alas, what I'm about to show you is unacceptable. Not only are you wearing a fur shirt, and not only are you wearing no pants, and instead just extremely strange briefs, and not only are your shoes completely passé, but most importantly, this is a regression. Yes, I realize that you were at a party for the Factory Girl movie, but isn't this all a little last year? I honestly thought that you had moved on, to greener pastures. The tights, the fuzzy shirt, the ankle boots, the no-pants look...it's just so bizarre. Also, your jacket is fur-lined, and it's extremely tasteless to wear more than one fur piece in most situations, particularly when you're in Los Angeles. Really, what made you think that this looked good?
(picture from Faded Youth)
Please seek counseling with Emmanuelle Alt.
Love, Eliza

Behind the Sun

2007-01-28T20:52:00.000-08:00

The rest of the Jil Sander SS07 campaign that I love so much. Featuring Johanna Jonsson, Johanna Stickland, and Clement Chabernaud as shot by Willy Vanderperre. Stark and modern, yet there's something very illuminating about them. Love it.

Alligator Mine

2007-01-28T16:13:00.000-08:00

I've been a fan of Henry Cuir's puzzle bags for a while now, and I recently came across the same style, but in a rich, chocolate brown crocodile. Yes. It's luxe, it's texturized, it's unique, and it's well-made. It's almost ugly, but in a very interesting way. If I had a spare $4,500, I would most definitely pick one up at Barneys.

Rough Gem

2007-01-28T15:57:00.000-08:00

I need more jewelry.
Mark Davis' Bakelite with 18K gold, aquamarine, green tourmaline, iolite, and rhodolite bangle, $8900, at Barneys.

Ileana Makri's pavé diamond and 18K white gold polar bear necklace, $3500, at Barneys.

Lena Wald's 18K white gold screw and stud earrings, $58 and $92 for one, respectively, at Aloha Rag.

Lucifer Vir Honestus' Quercus Moonstone ring made of 18K rose gold with moonstone and diamonds, $5,600, at Barneys.

Violently Happy

2007-01-27T19:48:00.000-08:00

All the Holes In the Walls

2007-01-27T19:44:00.000-08:00

Pictures from style.com

Toxic Girl

2007-01-27T00:47:00.000-08:00

Other SS07 shows featured intense, dramatic eyes, and hair swept up from the face.
The curled updos and black eyeliner at Yves Saint Laurent were dramatic and ladylike, in an almost slutty sort of way.

Dries Van Noten's thickly winged eyeliner and sporty headbands were sleek, bold, and modern.

Narciso Rodriguez also featured winged eyeliner and black headbands, but the eyes at this show were metallic and lighter, giving the look an '80s vibe.

The cat-eye makeup and low side ponytails at Behnaz Sarafpour were the epitome of beatnik chic (that is, if beatniks actually dressed like how we stereotype them).

Rodarte had interestingly winged, inverted eyeliner, which added a new dimension of interest against the otherwise bare faces and nondescript messy buns.

Pictures from style.com

Little Girl

2007-01-27T00:33:00.000-08:00

For spring/summer makeup and hair trends, the softly pretty, slightly (or maybe a little more than slightly) whimsical look is always in.
The soft metallic eyes at Chanel, combined with a rosy, natural lip and a soft, low ponytail were the perfect combination of innocence and flash.

The full peach pouts and slightly glittery taupe eyeshadow at Derek Lam looked dainty and healthy.

Louis Vuitton's natural lips, silver eyeshadow, and extensive, floral hair frippery made for pretty frivolity.

The mix of big bouffants, a little eyeliner, and both blush and lipgloss of a rosy hue meant '50s-style wholesomeness at Oscar de la Renta.

Pictures from style.com

There's Too Much Love

2007-01-27T00:21:00.000-08:00

The Absence Of God

2007-01-25T21:34:00.000-08:00

Halos, stained glass, angel wings, nuns' habits, pierced hearts worthy of martyrs, and yes, a few crosses. Religion was hot hot hot at Jean Paul Gaultier Couture SS07, and he pulled most of it off wonderfully. JPG always does variety very well, and this show was no exceptino. Some of it was quite wearable -- the little black frocks, the flowing goddess dresses. Other pieces -- namely the dresses with attached habits and the stained glass-effect gown -- are best saved for the photoshoots. Although the inspiration was rather obvious, and sometimes it wasn't carried out with the best of taste, this show was a nice break from all the main spring themes of flowers, robots, and the Orient. However, I'm slightly confused as to what JPG's actual message about religion was. Is it that people may look saintly, but that image can hide an inner sinner (oooh, rhymes)? Or is it that beauty is goodness, and that's what our salvation is? Or maybe it's that he just wanted to shake things up by making a burlesque star wear a halo and a cross, but he didn't realize it's been done, and that it may look pretty, but there isn't any real meaning behind it? Oh well, the clothes are pretty for the most part.
Special sacrilege gift: If You're Feeling Sinister by Belle & Sebastian...click.
The divine was either sleek, chic, and subversive, or beautiful, frothy, embellished, and worthy of fairy tales.

The evil was either trashy, unflattering, or in the case of that pink dress, just awkward.

Pictures from style.com and elle.com

Electric Relaxation

2007-01-24T20:31:00.000-08:00

For some reason, models tend to have innate, carefree, cool style. Maybe it's because they're generally gorgeous, and they know how to make clothes look good, or maybe it's because they get tons of beautiful, free clothes. Or maybe being in the fashion industry, they learn how to mix and match their garments and accessories in a way that seems totally fresh and cutting edge. Of course, not all models have great style, and some can just rely on the skinny jeans and ballet flats combo to look good. But here are a few whose style I really appreciate.
Irina: The ultimate.

Freja: Tomboy cool, with a hipster edge.

Lesly: We do not see enough of this girl, but I love love love this picture. The dark lip with the loose layers is divine.

Agnyess: Sometimes I think she tries too hard, and she may be a little too 80s for my taste, but she still looks good, so oh well.

Lia: is a goddess.

Lisa: Her style is normally kind of boring, but this dress is absolutely lovely.

Cecilia: I love the combination of the ankle strap wedges and the cropped jeans. It's so chic and classic cool.

Iekeline: Just like with Agnyess, sometimes I think it's just too much, but c'mon, she wears tutus. It can't be that bad.

Julia: I adore these modified overalls because they fit well, and they are too overbearing, while still maintaining the whimsical quality of overalls. I love the simplicity of them with the plain black shirt and the hot Balenciaga heels (although I know she didn't show up wearing them, it looks too good to ignore it).

And also, I hate Lindsay Ellingson. Not only do I think she's horribly unattractive, but I haven't found her to be a talented model, and just look at this. Look. What the fuck is she wearing? An off the shoulder sweatshirt with buckles and some random tattoo-style print, combined with a pink wifebeater? You're in the fashion industry, Lindsay. That demands some professionalism in your attire. It is not okay to dress like a twelve year old who shops at Wal-Mart. Bitch.

Pictures from style.com and Getty Images.

Bloodflowers

2007-01-24T16:20:00.000-08:00

Lacroix Couture SS07. Insane, floral, over the top, frilly, technicolored, etc. Some of it I liked in a sunshine-and-flowers, let's-have-a-LSD-laced-picnic sort of way, and some of it made me gag, thinking, "Why the fuck is Hana wearing a bath mat from an elderly woman in Oklahoma's apartment as a jacket?"
Maybe it's my cough syrup-addled mind, but this one is hard to call. I'll give it a thumbs up, just because I'm feeling woozy, and I liked most of the dresses towards the end of the show.
I like:
I'm not a fan of polka dots in general, but this manages to be cute and flirty without going into overly wholesome territory.

It's insane and overly sweet, and I'd only wear it to the aformentioned LSD picnic, or possibly a photoshoot for something in V, but there's something that I like about it.

Pretty, gauzy, flowy sunshine.

High drama, like what the sexy evil witch in an early 20th century childrens book would wear.

I do not like:
Frills can be fun, but when they make Tatiana Usova look like a brick house (she's mighty mighty, just lettin' it all hang ouuut), it's just not good.

Um, no words.

Tacky print, and I just want to rip the flower off her throat.

Again we have a problem with something being unflattering. Corsets are supposed to suck everything in, and if this one actually worked, I'd like the dress in a Moulin Rouge on acid kind of way. Alas, the fit is terrible and it ruins the outfit.

Pictures from style.com

Sea Wolf

2007-01-23T22:45:00.000-08:00

Givenchy Couture SS07 was watery, modern, and beautiful. Riccardo Tisci was said to be inspired by his hometown of Taranto, a seaport in Puglia, and “the metamorphosis of sailors into mermaids," which one could obviously see in his outfits. The juxtaposition of beautifully structured jackets and nautically themed buttons and belts, with simply amazing dresses and flowing trains, told his story while producing some gorgeous clothes. In some of the outfits you could actually see the dissolution of structure and sailor into freedom and mermaid (see Coco in a mustard strapless gown). Although there were some faults, like those strange, Balenciaga-esque hats in the beginning, or those bizarre printed suits (which could actually look good if worn piece by piece, and by the right person), I really liked it.

Pictures from style.com

Stupid Memory

2007-01-23T22:01:00.000-08:00

I have very mixed yet familiar feelings about Chanel Couture SS07. Karl churned out the regular mix of henious or innocuous suits, pretty-yet-conventional frocks, and the occasional gorgeous gown that he does for every single Chanel couture and ready to wear show, every single season, in the same general color palate of blacks and whites. Sure, he does a few variations on the theme, like how last couture show, he was really into beadazzling and those disgusting denim boots. This time, he worked the feathers and fringe angle. Did it work?
Sometimes, it was alright, as evidenced in this cocktail dress. Of course it's not amazing or new, and on the wrong person it'll look like the zombie cannibal twin of a bad flapper Halloween costume, but worn correctly, it's fine and flattering.

Many times, this feather and fringe motif was...well...ill-fitting and matronly, with a touch of dementia. Just look at the following picture and ask yourself, "Who would buy this? Who would pay more than $10,000 for a gown from one of the most famed couturiers in the world, wear it with tights and earrings the size of vulture eggs, and think, 'This looks good. This was worth my money.'?" Because really, this is a shapeless grey sack that Karl had shredded, stuck some embroidery on it, and slapped a jacket from the Chanel archives circa 1987 over it. Ridiculous.

Or take this dress. Without those feather-blobs on it, it could be sort of a cool dress that Irina Lazareanu would sport in W as part of some androgony spread shot by Michael Thompson, and I'd see it and think "Alright. Pretty nice." However, with the feather-blobs on, it seems like Bobbi Wiens was innocently shooting a Badgley Mishka ad, and then Edgar Allen Poe, under the influence of ecstasy, stripped, forced her to put on his overcoat and belt, and then pushed her into a flock of rabid ravens.

But then occasionally, there was some good. This dress that Anouck is wearing works because the somber navy and the classic cut balance out the insane feather shoulders and the glitter, um, everywhere. It's definitely a fairy tale dress, and you have to carry yourself the right way in it, but I like. It's pretty and girly and utterly magical.

The epitome of my mixed feelings for Chanel came in the form of the finale. The cape. What can be said about the cape? Part of me loves it because it's so over the top, but a larger part of me hates it because it's a too-easy way to get attention. It's not beautiful, it doesn't look like it took that much work (in the grand scheme of couture-making), and it's just some random frilly item that reminds me of a christening outfit. It seems like it's a way to classify the show as couture, because since basically everything in this show could have been in a ready-to-wear show, having this one statement piece, this one over-the-top garment, makes it couture.
Aside from that, the dress underneath the cape was beautiful. It could have been more body-conscious, but it was sleek, minimal, and beautiful, and I really appreciate that Karl didn't take the fringe to the extreme in this piece, just leaving it around the shins, giving it a mermaid look.

Pictures from style.com

And one pill makes you small

2007-01-23T15:32:00.000-08:00

Christian Louboutin's Pillule Capsule, $1,250, available at Christian Louboutin boutiques, is a fabulous way to declare your dependentcies, while still having something chic to carry them in.

Picture from elle.com

God damn you half-Japanese girls...

2007-01-22T21:49:00.000-08:00

So, Dior Couture Spring two thousand and seven. Fantastic. Galliano created works of art with an asian aesthetic and a modern sense of proportion, while giving nods to Mr. Dior's New Look figures. The workmanship involved in these outfits was incredible, and the presentation was truely what couture should be. Galliano has always been the drama queen of couture week, but this time he managed to bring the grace and beauty without sacrificing the ideas or intensity behind it.
Pictures from style.com

Recreation Myth

2007-01-21T23:38:00.000-08:00

Dearest Pierre,
Okay Pierre, I love you. I always have, and I always will. But, that does not mean that since you have my unconditional love, you can just slack off and copy other people's shoe designs. That's not okay. That's not why I love you. Sigerson Morrison has been putting glass balls and stones on their shoes since 2005 at the latest, and you cannot just waltz into Barney's and steal their ideas. It's not cool. It doesn't mean that your SS07 collection wasn't good, because it was, especially those divine handbags, but please, show some creativity! You are the man who makes thigh-high boots with plastic discs at the ankles, and fantastic moon-maiden sandals. You are not the man who copies others, especially those who are beneath you. It's like me cheating off...well, anyone...in school. Psh.
Yours forever, E.
Sigerson Morrison

VS. Pierre Hardy

SM

VS. PH

Pictures from Pierrehardy.com, zappos.com, and style.com

Springtime Can Kill You, Chapter I

2007-01-21T23:13:00.000-08:00

Already planning my spring/summer wardrobe, I've come across a whole slew of items that would fit right in with my new philosophy of flattering/not reliant on layering/lack of patterns/accessories are the focus/simplistic dressing. Now if only I had the cash...
Takada Paris' bow dress is classic, interesting, and beautiful.

See by Chloé's Prince of Wales check parka is so crazy that I adore it. It's the sort of thing I'd put over my bathing suit once it got chilly at the beach.

Givenchy's mesh-detail tee is just bad-ass cool, in an upscale way.

Haider Ackerman's self-tie trousers are chic, simplistic, versatile, and basically perfect. The slightly baggy fit is a fresh departure from super-tight skinny pants, yet this pair isn't so oversized that a girl of normal stature like myself would look bad in them.

Proenza Schouler's line of shoes is trendy and rich, while still maintaining a certain integrity and sense of class.

Givenchy's white almond-toe pumps with a gold detail are basically the summer version of Miu Miu's baroque heels from last fall. Meaning, decadent and glorious.

Zufi Alexander's patent clutch is sleek and modern with a subversive side. The perfect tone of the leather along with the classic shape make it upscale, while the fang-like detail gives it a rock and roll edge.

YSL's handbags have always been great, and this season is no exception. The large black buffalo leather Downtown bag is a slouchy carry-all that'll last for ages, while the canvas and leather small Downtown Vichy is cute and perfect for spring.

Lanvin's crystal sunglasses are pimp. Enough said.

All items from luisaviaroma.com

Cast a Shadow

2007-01-19T00:38:00.000-08:00

Alison Nix. She's been around for a while, but she's beautiful, versatile, and just damn cool. She's gorgeous with or without the Louise Brooks bob, and word has it that she's best friends with Lesly Masson, another one of my favorite models. Alison has a subtle coolness about her -- nothing about her screams "look at me!" but you can tell that she's a little different, a little more special, than most of the girls out there today.

Photo cred: style.com, coacd, supermodels.nl

Do the Whirlwind

2007-01-19T00:20:00.000-08:00

The Skin Of My Yellow Country Teeth

2007-01-19T00:19:00.000-08:00

Current Bedding

2007-01-19T00:15:00.000-08:00

Staring at the Sun

2007-01-19T00:12:00.000-08:00

Cobra Feet

2007-01-17T17:38:00.000-08:00

Some of my picks for SS07 footwear...
Miu Miu's satin pumps were gorgeous, and I especially loved the nude-purple combination. Not only is it pretty, but it's right on par with spring trends.

Obviously, nude is going to be big. Ergo, a classic yet of-the-moment choice is YSL's peep-toe slingback. The peep-toe style and snakeskin never go out of style, and the nude, despite its trendiness, is pretty timeless.

I also really loved Chloé's shoes this season. Despite a lackluster collection of clothes, the shoes' brassy buckles and rich leather make for a studious yet cute look that's very wearable.

Christian Lacroix and Prada made shoes that epitomize the childish-ethnic motif of the season, with bright colors and crazy add-ons, they're crazy and adorable.

And Givenchy carried the idea in a whole different direction, producing shoes that are definitely ethic and child-inspired (hence batik prints and crochet), but much more gloomy and tough, and reminiscent of Balenciaga's fall equestrian platform booties. While not being perfect for the spring and summer months, they're certainly interesting, unique, and memorable.

Balenciaga's robot platform sandals, along with Marc Jacobs' jeweled heels and Viktor and Rolf's chandelier pumps, are some of the most extraordinary shoes I've seen in a long time. The glitter, the shine, the height, oh my! The Balenciagas are as if you took your Pierre Hardys to the mechanic, while the Marc ones are like a glorious, futuristic treasure. The ones from Viktor and Rolf seem like you were dancing in Louboutins, slipped, and your feet simuntaneously hit the chandelier and broke your pearl necklace, and then it all ended up on your shoes.

All pics from style.com