Well, there appear to be a couple of themes for Spring 2011. Some are resonating with me and some are not. For example, there seems to be an overall return to the late 70's early 80's. That is okay. What is not okay is the seeming penchant some of the collections have for the Stepford Wife look. You can only take so many ruffles before you start looking as if a cream puff factory exploded in your closet. One of the other inspirations for some designers seemed to be travel to foreign destinations.
This can be seen in the collections by Jean Paul Gaultier for Hermes and Carolina Herrera. Hermes captioned the look as western. In reality, the look took me straight to Argentina where the Gauchos roam. It wasn't so much the clothes as the chief accessory. That hat!!! If I were 5 inches taller I would definitely get that hat. However, the brim is too wide for someone as short as I am. But let me find one with a narrower brim and we are in business.
Ms. Herrera (again the epitome of style and grace) had Korean garments as her theme. Having never been to Korea, I was not sure what she had in mind. When I saw the chief accessory (again a hat) I was transported to the Andes. While I could not see the garments on a coffee grower or someone leading tourists on a guided tour using burros, that hat definitely was an item they would have. Also, Ms. Herrera used a plethora of models that represented the world. I like that about her. She does not seem to have a quota on what type of model she will use.
And speaking of types of models - - - my hat is off to Mr. Gaultier. For his collection (Jean Paul Gaultier) he used models of all sizes. He gets it. Every woman wants to be beautiful. Every woman wants to believe that she can find a designer garment that will fit and make her feel special. So on his runway you saw everything from size 0 to 24. While some of you in the fashion world were disgusted it is clearly time to get over yourselves. Size 0 is not the norm. Besides, only a dog wants a bone.
Now to the Stepford Wife collections. I found Andrew Gn's collection almost cloyingly sweet. I haven't seen that may ruffles and that much lace in a long time. Even the maxi dress look of them was far too reminiscent of women under the spell of some drug or replaced by some android if they did not comply.
Chanel was also a bit too sweet for my taste. Mr. Lagerfeld gave you monochromatic and of course the signature lace. I guess I am getting a bit tired of the starkness of his sets and the chilling effect that they have. I guess I want a more dynamic set like the one that used the carousel a few seasons ago. It had life and movement. That is something the last couple of collections seem to be missing for me.
And then there was Valentino. While the look may be more modern and intended to capture the 35 and under set, you have lost the 35 and over. Women over 40 don't want puffed sleeves and cut little dresses. We want to look elegant and polished. We are not trying to be our daughters and nieces. We are not trying to be our mothers. Maybe some of you can speak with Mr. Gaultier and figure out that fashion has to run the gamut and include everyone.
So start checking out the collections. We want your comments. We are not the final word on fashion. We are just one word on fashion.
Next time - - - I may have to do an exclusive on Haider Ackerman. He is beyond sick.
a la prochaine
Debra
Monday, October 18, 2010
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Do You Own This Skirt
Okay ladies, I am going to be brutal. There are some things that should not be put in the back of the closet or in that storage trunk. There are some things that should be sent to the great clothes bin in the sky. One of them I actually saw on a woman the other day.
It has been very warm in the Bay Area this month so people have gone nuts with clothing. I have seen some pretty amazingly awful looks. Some of them even border on hootchy. If the person behind you on the escalator has to turn their head because your skirt is so short you butt cheeks are hanging out from your thong and they can see them by simply looking straight ahead, that is hootchy. But this skirt is just wrong on too many levels to even salvage.
Enter 1979 and the height of the 'Prairie Skirt". Yes you heard me the prairie skirt. The ones with the multiple layers of ruffles. Well in Golden Gate Park there was a woman in one with a hot pink, yellow, blue and chartreuse paisley print for the outer layer; a lime green second layer and the final layer was turquoise. It looked as if a gum ball machine had thrown up and it landed on her.To make it even worse she had on flip-flops with toe socks and teal colored tee shirt (I guess she was picking up the various shades of blue and trying to tie them together).
Well Ms. Mitchell said it best; 'everything comes and goes marked by lovers and styles of clothes...". This style is long gone. Retire it to the great used clothing closet in the sky. I realize that there was the bohemian gypsy style of 2004-2006, but even it has rested. It is tamer than what this woman was wearing. Maybe she was a flower child. Maybe she was making a fashion statement. Let's be honest. Some fashion statements are, and should be, NEVER WEAR THIS AGAIN!! If I had a citation book I would have cited her for a fashion felony.
If you want to recycle clothing I am all for that. If the fabric is still in great shape, deconstruct the garment and make something else from it. I would have taken the outer layer of fabric and made a couple of throw pillows to go on a couch or chair. I would have cut the other layers into strips, finished the edges, made a basket-weave pattern and appliqued them on a contrasting background, added some other texture to make a great wall hanging. I'm not saying waste good fabric. I am saying don't wear a ridiculously dated skirt that makes you look crazy.
So remember the is a difference between retro, vintage and simply passe.
a la prochaine
Debra
It has been very warm in the Bay Area this month so people have gone nuts with clothing. I have seen some pretty amazingly awful looks. Some of them even border on hootchy. If the person behind you on the escalator has to turn their head because your skirt is so short you butt cheeks are hanging out from your thong and they can see them by simply looking straight ahead, that is hootchy. But this skirt is just wrong on too many levels to even salvage.
Enter 1979 and the height of the 'Prairie Skirt". Yes you heard me the prairie skirt. The ones with the multiple layers of ruffles. Well in Golden Gate Park there was a woman in one with a hot pink, yellow, blue and chartreuse paisley print for the outer layer; a lime green second layer and the final layer was turquoise. It looked as if a gum ball machine had thrown up and it landed on her.To make it even worse she had on flip-flops with toe socks and teal colored tee shirt (I guess she was picking up the various shades of blue and trying to tie them together).
Well Ms. Mitchell said it best; 'everything comes and goes marked by lovers and styles of clothes...". This style is long gone. Retire it to the great used clothing closet in the sky. I realize that there was the bohemian gypsy style of 2004-2006, but even it has rested. It is tamer than what this woman was wearing. Maybe she was a flower child. Maybe she was making a fashion statement. Let's be honest. Some fashion statements are, and should be, NEVER WEAR THIS AGAIN!! If I had a citation book I would have cited her for a fashion felony.
If you want to recycle clothing I am all for that. If the fabric is still in great shape, deconstruct the garment and make something else from it. I would have taken the outer layer of fabric and made a couple of throw pillows to go on a couch or chair. I would have cut the other layers into strips, finished the edges, made a basket-weave pattern and appliqued them on a contrasting background, added some other texture to make a great wall hanging. I'm not saying waste good fabric. I am saying don't wear a ridiculously dated skirt that makes you look crazy.
So remember the is a difference between retro, vintage and simply passe.
a la prochaine
Debra
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Before We Start
I know. You thought the next post would be one of the compare and contrast pieces. Well, you have to wade through one more post. this is a post that will hit raw nerves with some. It is a post about how you present yourself to the world.
Now I admit that I often sit around my home in sweats and flip-flops, no makeup and my do askew. However, you will never see me in public looking like I just rolled out of bed and forgot to look in the mirror to see what if I looked as if I should be on public display. I see far too many women (and men) in the Bay Area looking as if they have no mirror in their home and just go ahead and go out however they happen to be at the moment. This really depresses me.
I went to a place of business last week and met a friend for coffee. There were a lot of people sitting around the lobby so I asked her what was going on. She said that they were interviewing people for a couple of entry level positions. When this came out of her mouth I was stunned. Why would anyone go to a job interview looking that way.
One woman had on a pair of dusty blue, brushed denim pants and a mulberry colored cable knit sweater, no makeup, hair hanging limply to her elbows and a pair of crocs on her feet. Why would I hire you looking like that. Then there was the woman who violated the rule of 'fit 101'. You may have worn a size 10 a year ago but you need a size 14 now. Go ahead and get the larger size so the buttons are not hanging on for dear life on your blouse with gaping holes where your bra shows through.
The men were no better. One had on a pair of faded navy blue dockers with a white shirt that was half tucked in, with a black and white rep tie. He had busted looking penny loafers on his feet that hadn't seen polish in many years. Then there was the one who had on a black shirt with white chalk stripes, collar and cuffs, a red, blue, yellow green and orange psychedelic tie, pale grey pants and brown cowboy boots.
I suggested to my friend that in the future they suggest that the applicants come professionally dressed. Much to my surprise and dismay she told me that they were told to dress professionally. Is this what we have come to?
Even when I was in the Seattle/Bellevue area last fall I noticed that people in Seattle just did not dress. They had no idea that they looked not just unkempt but actually dirty. There were several young women I wanted to stop and ask them if they had ever considered taking a scrub brush to the young men they were with. I don't understand. Doesn't anyone want to dress up anymore?
I don't want to hear that it is a function of money. It is not. It is a function of being lazy and thinking that you are too good to care what you wear and that it doesn't matter. Well guess what? IT DOES!
Like it or not, you are constantly being judged. You don't have to wear big labels or be edgy. You don't have to spend thousands or even hundreds of dollars on clothes. You do need to pull yourself together. You do need to appear to be clean and well groomed. You can accomplish this with very little money and very little effort. I would think that is is harder to look as ratty as I see people looking than it would be to pull on a pair of jeans, a tee shirt and a vest, a great scarf and a pair of sandals. If you don't like scarves then a great belt of bag or earrings would work.
All I am saying is that the next time I go to the ballet, the symphony, the opera etc. it would be great if not one person there had on a pair of ratty jeans. It would be even better if not one single person had on a pair of jeans. I don't care if they did cost $300, they are jeans and they don't go everywhere.
Whatever you wear, wear it with style. Also remember that just because it comes in your size does not mean you should wear it (and that is whether you wear a size 2 or 22). Every garment is not for every body. Run to H&M and get some great separates. Go to Zara and see what is there. Go to Ross, Nordstrom Rack, Marshalls, TJ Maxx. You don't have to hang out at the big 5 (Neiman Marcus, Saks, Bergdorf Godman, Barney's and Lord&Taylor). You don't even have to shop at one of the Federated Stores like Dillards or Macy's. You don't have to frequent Nordstrom or Bloomingdale's. Go to Target. Go to Walmart. Go to Kohl's. Just make sure that you buy clothes that fit well and that make your statement.
That said, if your statement is I want to look like a bum who is unkempt and unwashed then I suggest therapy. You obviously have some serious self-loathing going on and eventually it will not work for you.
And finally, if this makes me a snob - - so be it. I will never cross my threshold looking like I forgot to shower and get dressed.
a la prochaine
Debra
Now I admit that I often sit around my home in sweats and flip-flops, no makeup and my do askew. However, you will never see me in public looking like I just rolled out of bed and forgot to look in the mirror to see what if I looked as if I should be on public display. I see far too many women (and men) in the Bay Area looking as if they have no mirror in their home and just go ahead and go out however they happen to be at the moment. This really depresses me.
I went to a place of business last week and met a friend for coffee. There were a lot of people sitting around the lobby so I asked her what was going on. She said that they were interviewing people for a couple of entry level positions. When this came out of her mouth I was stunned. Why would anyone go to a job interview looking that way.
One woman had on a pair of dusty blue, brushed denim pants and a mulberry colored cable knit sweater, no makeup, hair hanging limply to her elbows and a pair of crocs on her feet. Why would I hire you looking like that. Then there was the woman who violated the rule of 'fit 101'. You may have worn a size 10 a year ago but you need a size 14 now. Go ahead and get the larger size so the buttons are not hanging on for dear life on your blouse with gaping holes where your bra shows through.
The men were no better. One had on a pair of faded navy blue dockers with a white shirt that was half tucked in, with a black and white rep tie. He had busted looking penny loafers on his feet that hadn't seen polish in many years. Then there was the one who had on a black shirt with white chalk stripes, collar and cuffs, a red, blue, yellow green and orange psychedelic tie, pale grey pants and brown cowboy boots.
I suggested to my friend that in the future they suggest that the applicants come professionally dressed. Much to my surprise and dismay she told me that they were told to dress professionally. Is this what we have come to?
Even when I was in the Seattle/Bellevue area last fall I noticed that people in Seattle just did not dress. They had no idea that they looked not just unkempt but actually dirty. There were several young women I wanted to stop and ask them if they had ever considered taking a scrub brush to the young men they were with. I don't understand. Doesn't anyone want to dress up anymore?
I don't want to hear that it is a function of money. It is not. It is a function of being lazy and thinking that you are too good to care what you wear and that it doesn't matter. Well guess what? IT DOES!
Like it or not, you are constantly being judged. You don't have to wear big labels or be edgy. You don't have to spend thousands or even hundreds of dollars on clothes. You do need to pull yourself together. You do need to appear to be clean and well groomed. You can accomplish this with very little money and very little effort. I would think that is is harder to look as ratty as I see people looking than it would be to pull on a pair of jeans, a tee shirt and a vest, a great scarf and a pair of sandals. If you don't like scarves then a great belt of bag or earrings would work.
All I am saying is that the next time I go to the ballet, the symphony, the opera etc. it would be great if not one person there had on a pair of ratty jeans. It would be even better if not one single person had on a pair of jeans. I don't care if they did cost $300, they are jeans and they don't go everywhere.
Whatever you wear, wear it with style. Also remember that just because it comes in your size does not mean you should wear it (and that is whether you wear a size 2 or 22). Every garment is not for every body. Run to H&M and get some great separates. Go to Zara and see what is there. Go to Ross, Nordstrom Rack, Marshalls, TJ Maxx. You don't have to hang out at the big 5 (Neiman Marcus, Saks, Bergdorf Godman, Barney's and Lord&Taylor). You don't even have to shop at one of the Federated Stores like Dillards or Macy's. You don't have to frequent Nordstrom or Bloomingdale's. Go to Target. Go to Walmart. Go to Kohl's. Just make sure that you buy clothes that fit well and that make your statement.
That said, if your statement is I want to look like a bum who is unkempt and unwashed then I suggest therapy. You obviously have some serious self-loathing going on and eventually it will not work for you.
And finally, if this makes me a snob - - so be it. I will never cross my threshold looking like I forgot to shower and get dressed.
a la prochaine
Debra
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
The Benefits of Insomnia
I know everyone is asking what this could possibly have to do with fashion. Well if you allow me a few lines I'll tie it all together. But first, some words of wisdom.
If you have had chicken pox get a shingles vaccine. It is not a pleasant condition. Between the itching, the pain and the general discomfort, I have gotten little sleep over the past few nights. Right now I am streaming Chante France and the song playing is LE TRIBU DE DANA. It is one of my favorites. It is actually taking my mind off of the fact that I can't have another benadryl for about three hours. Let's hope I like the next song also.
Last night I woke up at about 2:30; so I guess it was actually morning. I couldn't take any benadryl and I was miserable. So I turned on the television for some distraction. As I flipped through the channels I found this channel called 'green planet'. There was a show on called living with Ed. It is actually a show about Ed Begley. Apparently he is really into the environment and living as greenly as possible. So much so that he has compelled his wife to follow along.
Well in the episode that was on, his wife was going to an event and wanted to wear a 'green' gown. Yeah, you know where I am going. This is a follow-up to the why don't people dress post.
I have no objections what so ever to being sustainable, green and non-toxic. Ask my Danish friends. I love their fabrics and the whole concept. My objection is to the lack of fashion and style. Ed Begley's wife picked a dress that could double as a nightgown. It was hideous. To make matters worse she insulted French and Italian designers by saying that the gown was as good as one they would design. Trust me; Valentino would never design a gown that you could wear to a function, sleep in and then 'ready roll', go to breakfast after sleeping in it.
I believe in supporting cooperatives in developing countries. I believe in recycling fabrics. I do not believe in ugly. More than that, when I saw the footage of the event I was appalled. People were in jeans. Men were in less than appropriate attire for a gala. It proved that as bad as the Bay Area is in terms of dressing and fashion, Los Angeles is worse. There was a woman in a bikini and fishnet hose. That is beyond trashy. I have no words for something like that.
If Ed Begley's wife wants a gown that is not traditional I'd check out Haider Ackermann. Those are gowns that could rock a red (or green) carpet. The idea is chic, current, bold and interesting. That would be Haider Ackermann, not the crap you wore to some gala that was really the equivalent of a backyard barbecue in terms of style and class.
So ladies, if you want to do sustainable make sure it is still current and stylish. Do not stoop to the level of wearing a modified nightgown out in public.
a la prochaine
Debra
If you have had chicken pox get a shingles vaccine. It is not a pleasant condition. Between the itching, the pain and the general discomfort, I have gotten little sleep over the past few nights. Right now I am streaming Chante France and the song playing is LE TRIBU DE DANA. It is one of my favorites. It is actually taking my mind off of the fact that I can't have another benadryl for about three hours. Let's hope I like the next song also.
Last night I woke up at about 2:30; so I guess it was actually morning. I couldn't take any benadryl and I was miserable. So I turned on the television for some distraction. As I flipped through the channels I found this channel called 'green planet'. There was a show on called living with Ed. It is actually a show about Ed Begley. Apparently he is really into the environment and living as greenly as possible. So much so that he has compelled his wife to follow along.
Well in the episode that was on, his wife was going to an event and wanted to wear a 'green' gown. Yeah, you know where I am going. This is a follow-up to the why don't people dress post.
I have no objections what so ever to being sustainable, green and non-toxic. Ask my Danish friends. I love their fabrics and the whole concept. My objection is to the lack of fashion and style. Ed Begley's wife picked a dress that could double as a nightgown. It was hideous. To make matters worse she insulted French and Italian designers by saying that the gown was as good as one they would design. Trust me; Valentino would never design a gown that you could wear to a function, sleep in and then 'ready roll', go to breakfast after sleeping in it.
I believe in supporting cooperatives in developing countries. I believe in recycling fabrics. I do not believe in ugly. More than that, when I saw the footage of the event I was appalled. People were in jeans. Men were in less than appropriate attire for a gala. It proved that as bad as the Bay Area is in terms of dressing and fashion, Los Angeles is worse. There was a woman in a bikini and fishnet hose. That is beyond trashy. I have no words for something like that.
If Ed Begley's wife wants a gown that is not traditional I'd check out Haider Ackermann. Those are gowns that could rock a red (or green) carpet. The idea is chic, current, bold and interesting. That would be Haider Ackermann, not the crap you wore to some gala that was really the equivalent of a backyard barbecue in terms of style and class.
So ladies, if you want to do sustainable make sure it is still current and stylish. Do not stoop to the level of wearing a modified nightgown out in public.
a la prochaine
Debra
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Bravo!! Sarah Burton Picks Up the Gauntlet
I have to admit that if someone came to me and said, "you are going to carry on for Alexander McQueen" I would first start to laugh, then start to cry and eventually faint. But, Sarah Burton did no such thing. She channeled her long time colleague and delivered almost 40 looks that were decidedly McQueen. It was as if she stepped into his body and asked him exactly what he had in mind for the season.
I have always thought that his designs were brilliant, though not my style. I have never felt that I could pull off the 'costume' look of many of the pieces in a McQueen collection. So I guess I must say that while I am definitely into very chic fashion and that I love an edgy look, I am definitely not yet confident enough to pull of Haute Couture.
So for those who were worried that the passing of Alexander McQueen would be the end of the label, not so. Ms. Burton is fully in charge and fully capable of bringing us everything we ever wanted to see from this design house. The House of Alexander McQueen will continue to produce stunning men's and women's collections and even the label McQ, under the watchful eye of Ms. Burton will thrive.
We are spending the weekend going over our notes so we can begin the compare and contrast next week. We anticipate approximately 8 posts that will surly give you a reason to think.
a la prochaine
Debra
I have always thought that his designs were brilliant, though not my style. I have never felt that I could pull off the 'costume' look of many of the pieces in a McQueen collection. So I guess I must say that while I am definitely into very chic fashion and that I love an edgy look, I am definitely not yet confident enough to pull of Haute Couture.
So for those who were worried that the passing of Alexander McQueen would be the end of the label, not so. Ms. Burton is fully in charge and fully capable of bringing us everything we ever wanted to see from this design house. The House of Alexander McQueen will continue to produce stunning men's and women's collections and even the label McQ, under the watchful eye of Ms. Burton will thrive.
We are spending the weekend going over our notes so we can begin the compare and contrast next week. We anticipate approximately 8 posts that will surly give you a reason to think.
a la prochaine
Debra
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Breaking the Silence
We admit that we stepped away from posting for a little over a month. We decided to do a compare and contrast of the Spring 2011 collections. It is a lot less grueling than the day by day posting. Not only that, it has given us a chance to look at some trends. So now we are starting with a small step.
The most distrubing trend is the 'mullet' dress. You know short in the front and long in the back. It was a bad hairstyle and now is appears that designers what to bring it around as a bad dress. I have seen very few of them well put together on a red carpet or a runway.
I understand the practicallity. Walking in a full length gown is sometimes difficult. Especially if said gown is too long. Again, if you cannot see the toes of your shoes peeking out under the hemline, the dress is too long.
Clearly, designers are tired of seeing women step on the hems of their gowns. Ergo, create the 'mullet'dress. Knee or thgh length in the front with a full train in the back. Wrong answer. Send women to the class I call 'fit 101'. If you are going to go to the trouble of spending that kind of money on a gown get it altered to fit ladies.
Next issue - - - have black women been banned from the runways again? Is there some fear that if someone with a darker complexion is showcasing the dress it will not sell? I frankly am getting tired of designers, advertisers and fashion magazine editors who keep pertetuating the slight to black women.
That's right I blame them all. There are very few women of color sitting around the editoraial table in the halls of these magazines. The black men who sit at these tables should be ashamed. They are so afraid of rocking the boat that they say nothing. Oh they will go to graduation ceremonies and encourage students of color but they will not stand up to the Anna Wintours of the world.
It isn't about training or education. It is about access and opportunity. Anna Wintour is Editor in Chief of American Vogue. She weilds a lot of influence in the fashion industry. She didn't work her way to the top. She was given the position due to her father's influence. She wants to pass it on to her daughter (also with no formal training in fasion). If Conde Nast falls for that, then shame on them too.
Despite all of the gains and the flap about Italian Vogue's "Black Issue" things seem to have slipped back. We are not in a post racial world. sadly we are becoming more polarized than ever.
That does not have to be the case. There is enough for everyone. Fashion is a big industry and clearly there are a lot of really talented people. Let's give everyone a chance.
Next post - - - What's Coming for Spring 2011
a la prochaine
Debra
The most distrubing trend is the 'mullet' dress. You know short in the front and long in the back. It was a bad hairstyle and now is appears that designers what to bring it around as a bad dress. I have seen very few of them well put together on a red carpet or a runway.
I understand the practicallity. Walking in a full length gown is sometimes difficult. Especially if said gown is too long. Again, if you cannot see the toes of your shoes peeking out under the hemline, the dress is too long.
Clearly, designers are tired of seeing women step on the hems of their gowns. Ergo, create the 'mullet'dress. Knee or thgh length in the front with a full train in the back. Wrong answer. Send women to the class I call 'fit 101'. If you are going to go to the trouble of spending that kind of money on a gown get it altered to fit ladies.
Next issue - - - have black women been banned from the runways again? Is there some fear that if someone with a darker complexion is showcasing the dress it will not sell? I frankly am getting tired of designers, advertisers and fashion magazine editors who keep pertetuating the slight to black women.
That's right I blame them all. There are very few women of color sitting around the editoraial table in the halls of these magazines. The black men who sit at these tables should be ashamed. They are so afraid of rocking the boat that they say nothing. Oh they will go to graduation ceremonies and encourage students of color but they will not stand up to the Anna Wintours of the world.
It isn't about training or education. It is about access and opportunity. Anna Wintour is Editor in Chief of American Vogue. She weilds a lot of influence in the fashion industry. She didn't work her way to the top. She was given the position due to her father's influence. She wants to pass it on to her daughter (also with no formal training in fasion). If Conde Nast falls for that, then shame on them too.
Despite all of the gains and the flap about Italian Vogue's "Black Issue" things seem to have slipped back. We are not in a post racial world. sadly we are becoming more polarized than ever.
That does not have to be the case. There is enough for everyone. Fashion is a big industry and clearly there are a lot of really talented people. Let's give everyone a chance.
Next post - - - What's Coming for Spring 2011
a la prochaine
Debra
Sunday, August 22, 2010
A Man With a Dream (connected to an incredible vision)
If you live on the west coast the default fashion Mecca is Los Angeles. The scene in San Francisco is pretty fractured and sleepy. There are some great designers in San Francisco but aren't very cohesive so their voice is weak, and there isn't really a cohesive fashion district.
As you continue up the west coast the next stop for fashion is Vancouver, BC (Canada). So the industry has completely disregarded Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington. As far as it is concerned those two places warrant no special attention and fashion does not exist. They forget that it is the corporate headquarters of Norstrom.
Oh how wrong they are. Enter Kemper Freeman, Jr. with the fashion vision and a dream to make Bellevue, Washington the next fashion Mecca. For our readers from western Washington, Kemper Freeman is known as a real estate developer. His family almost single-handedly brought a small farming community (Bellevue) into the modern age and made it into a jewel to rival Seattle in terms of culture, shopping, entertainment and industry. So, if you hear someone say Kemper Development it is indeed the same man.
Your question is how is a developer connected with fashion? Well the Bellevue Collection, which includes Bellevue Square, is the shopping destination and should not be missed. Okay, there is Bravern but its only claim to fame is Neiman Marcus. Bellevue Square has so much more appeal. Not only that, it has Fashion Week!!
The people who guard the industry ignore it and say that it is really a series of trunk shows and does not deserve mention. I disagee. Not that it isn't slightly misnamed, but it is a start and will turn into a real fashion week in time. I am convinced that a perosn with vision and drive can accomplish anything.
So, watch out Los Angeles. You will have some stiff competition. You may have celebrity and a fashion district. However, a fashion district is easy to create and celebrity is fleeting. In terms of beauty, style, culture and class, Bellevue just may have you beat. Once you feel Kempr Freeman coming up behind you to steal the fashion ring it will be too late. He will have everything else in place and the only thing left will be grabbing that ring.
Personally, I hope he is successful. How cool would it be to have Mercedes Benz Fashion Week New York AND Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Bellevue?
a la prochaine
Debra
As you continue up the west coast the next stop for fashion is Vancouver, BC (Canada). So the industry has completely disregarded Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington. As far as it is concerned those two places warrant no special attention and fashion does not exist. They forget that it is the corporate headquarters of Norstrom.
Oh how wrong they are. Enter Kemper Freeman, Jr. with the fashion vision and a dream to make Bellevue, Washington the next fashion Mecca. For our readers from western Washington, Kemper Freeman is known as a real estate developer. His family almost single-handedly brought a small farming community (Bellevue) into the modern age and made it into a jewel to rival Seattle in terms of culture, shopping, entertainment and industry. So, if you hear someone say Kemper Development it is indeed the same man.
Your question is how is a developer connected with fashion? Well the Bellevue Collection, which includes Bellevue Square, is the shopping destination and should not be missed. Okay, there is Bravern but its only claim to fame is Neiman Marcus. Bellevue Square has so much more appeal. Not only that, it has Fashion Week!!
The people who guard the industry ignore it and say that it is really a series of trunk shows and does not deserve mention. I disagee. Not that it isn't slightly misnamed, but it is a start and will turn into a real fashion week in time. I am convinced that a perosn with vision and drive can accomplish anything.
So, watch out Los Angeles. You will have some stiff competition. You may have celebrity and a fashion district. However, a fashion district is easy to create and celebrity is fleeting. In terms of beauty, style, culture and class, Bellevue just may have you beat. Once you feel Kempr Freeman coming up behind you to steal the fashion ring it will be too late. He will have everything else in place and the only thing left will be grabbing that ring.
Personally, I hope he is successful. How cool would it be to have Mercedes Benz Fashion Week New York AND Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Bellevue?
a la prochaine
Debra
Saturday, August 21, 2010
And Now To Start
Well it is almost time for the grind to start, yet again. The London Edge is just around the corner to be followed by Pret-A-Porter, Premiere Classe, Who's Next, Fashion Week London, Fashion Week Milan and the star of the season, Fashion Week Paris. And yes, I did leave out all of the fashion salons state side. They are important and all of the European Boutique designers are going to make an appearance at Fashion Coterie. And after Paris, there will be the shows in the east.
Mercedes Benz Fashion Week is important and should not be ignored. Every significant American designer will be there and we will pay hommage. But we also want to pay hommage to those who never get the invitations. They too are important in the world of fashion.
If you are interested in figuring out where every single show is taking place check out the site informat.com. If you can't find it there, it probably isn't going to happen. It is a great resource no matter if you are into design, textiles, accessories, etc. This is the bible.
I am expecting some somewhat schizophrenic collections. There have been mixed reports about the economy and its recovery. If times are getting better we are more willing to buy the avante garde piece. If times are leaner, we still want value and longevity. I think that we need to stay with the measured and reasoned choices of the past few seasons.
However, if we get beauty, innovation, style and fashion all wrapped up in one, I can go for that too. So, wait for our updates. We will be bringing them to you as they unfold.
a la prochaine
Debra
Mercedes Benz Fashion Week is important and should not be ignored. Every significant American designer will be there and we will pay hommage. But we also want to pay hommage to those who never get the invitations. They too are important in the world of fashion.
If you are interested in figuring out where every single show is taking place check out the site informat.com. If you can't find it there, it probably isn't going to happen. It is a great resource no matter if you are into design, textiles, accessories, etc. This is the bible.
I am expecting some somewhat schizophrenic collections. There have been mixed reports about the economy and its recovery. If times are getting better we are more willing to buy the avante garde piece. If times are leaner, we still want value and longevity. I think that we need to stay with the measured and reasoned choices of the past few seasons.
However, if we get beauty, innovation, style and fashion all wrapped up in one, I can go for that too. So, wait for our updates. We will be bringing them to you as they unfold.
a la prochaine
Debra
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Fashion Before the Crash (and After)
While doing some editing of the fashion magazine collection I picked up the September 2008 issue of "W". As with all of the fashion mags, that is the issue everyone awaits with much anticipation. I was struck by the edginess of the collections. Not just those you expected to be edgy, but even the collections from designers who trend toward the more classic tailored looks. That made me wonder if somehow they sensed that a big change was coming to the world of fashion.
In a couple of weeks the new September issues will be hitting the newsstands along with the specialty collection magazines. It is easy to drop a couple of hundred dollars as you pick up French and Italian Vogue, The Collection, "V" and a couple of the other choice publications. Based on what was on the runways in the spring, the looks will be less edgy and more classic. These will be garments that will stand the test of time and be able to hang in your closet for a long time to come.
There are always the designers who go straight to the edge irrespective of what seems to be happening in the world of fashion. One of those designers is Rei Kawakubo of Commes Des Garcons. She is who she is and one thing is for sure. Rei will never hold back. She is going to take you straight to the edge and leave you there until you decide to turn back or take the leap. Others like Haider Ackermann and Anne Demulemeester gave you edge. However, it was a decidedly sophisticated edge. Many of the items in those collections will work in your closet for many years to come. Some items, like the Ackermann sculptured leather and wool vest will become iconic show pieces that cause people to stop you and ask "OMG where did you get that?!".
In 2008, even Carolina Herrera was on the soft side of edgy with many of the pieces in her collection. In 2010 she brings you back to the really softly tailored feminine side of her collection; and yes, even the Herrera sleeves are back. The Queen of Goth, Anne Demulemeester, was decidely on the edge in 2008. It was an edge I was willing to go to even though my friends did not understand my fascination with this very sophisticated Goth collection. In 2010 I have to say that there are pieces in her collection makeing it absolutely clear that she is the Queen of Goth. There are pieces in that collection that I would suggest to my 80 year old mother. There are a couple of long black coats that are absolutely stunning and in 2025 you could whip them out and take them for a spin around the block no problem.
So even though you are not like all of us here at the fashion project with more fashion magazines than you could ever imagine, you do have access to the 2008 and 2010 collections through www.style.com. Check them out when you get the chance. You will see the stark reality of the impact of the economic downturn on the collections the designers are opting to create and put on the runways.
These changes are a reaction to what we are willing to pay to put clothes on our backs. Three years ago I would not have hesitated to purchase a $4,500 Haider Ackermann vest. But now, even those who can afford to purchase luxury ready to wear want durable garments. By that I mean something that will stand the test of time. No wild colors, no strange cuts, no awkward drapes and certainly no strangely paired prints and plaids. We are talking classic lines, colors and accents to give the ensemble just the right "pop".
Even when times get better economically, people will be searching for value. Gone are the days when we were willing to drop $6,000 on and outfit. So the MSRP's may be droping in order to get retailers to place orders. No retailer is going to agree to continue to pay the mark down fees because they can't move the merchandise at full price.
So stay tuned. More to come on the fashion front regarding price and even what we, the average Jane, will pay to shop at places such as Bergdorf Goodman, Saks, Macy's and even Target.
a la prochaine
Debra
In a couple of weeks the new September issues will be hitting the newsstands along with the specialty collection magazines. It is easy to drop a couple of hundred dollars as you pick up French and Italian Vogue, The Collection, "V" and a couple of the other choice publications. Based on what was on the runways in the spring, the looks will be less edgy and more classic. These will be garments that will stand the test of time and be able to hang in your closet for a long time to come.
There are always the designers who go straight to the edge irrespective of what seems to be happening in the world of fashion. One of those designers is Rei Kawakubo of Commes Des Garcons. She is who she is and one thing is for sure. Rei will never hold back. She is going to take you straight to the edge and leave you there until you decide to turn back or take the leap. Others like Haider Ackermann and Anne Demulemeester gave you edge. However, it was a decidedly sophisticated edge. Many of the items in those collections will work in your closet for many years to come. Some items, like the Ackermann sculptured leather and wool vest will become iconic show pieces that cause people to stop you and ask "OMG where did you get that?!".
In 2008, even Carolina Herrera was on the soft side of edgy with many of the pieces in her collection. In 2010 she brings you back to the really softly tailored feminine side of her collection; and yes, even the Herrera sleeves are back. The Queen of Goth, Anne Demulemeester, was decidely on the edge in 2008. It was an edge I was willing to go to even though my friends did not understand my fascination with this very sophisticated Goth collection. In 2010 I have to say that there are pieces in her collection makeing it absolutely clear that she is the Queen of Goth. There are pieces in that collection that I would suggest to my 80 year old mother. There are a couple of long black coats that are absolutely stunning and in 2025 you could whip them out and take them for a spin around the block no problem.
So even though you are not like all of us here at the fashion project with more fashion magazines than you could ever imagine, you do have access to the 2008 and 2010 collections through www.style.com. Check them out when you get the chance. You will see the stark reality of the impact of the economic downturn on the collections the designers are opting to create and put on the runways.
These changes are a reaction to what we are willing to pay to put clothes on our backs. Three years ago I would not have hesitated to purchase a $4,500 Haider Ackermann vest. But now, even those who can afford to purchase luxury ready to wear want durable garments. By that I mean something that will stand the test of time. No wild colors, no strange cuts, no awkward drapes and certainly no strangely paired prints and plaids. We are talking classic lines, colors and accents to give the ensemble just the right "pop".
Even when times get better economically, people will be searching for value. Gone are the days when we were willing to drop $6,000 on and outfit. So the MSRP's may be droping in order to get retailers to place orders. No retailer is going to agree to continue to pay the mark down fees because they can't move the merchandise at full price.
So stay tuned. More to come on the fashion front regarding price and even what we, the average Jane, will pay to shop at places such as Bergdorf Goodman, Saks, Macy's and even Target.
a la prochaine
Debra
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Not my Favorite Movie
At least 10 people told me I really needed to see Sex in the City 2 as the fashion was great. That was true it was great. However, had I known it was an epic movie (in terms of length) I may have bowed out. It was colorful, opulent, warm and everything you would want to see. But as I looked at the scenery, I wasn't thinking Abu Dhabi. I was thinking Morocco; especially the beach scene. It just felt like Morocco.
I know that a lot of people think that the plot was weak and that it was a bit too over the top. I didn't go for the plot. I went to see what was being worn and to see if there was any attention at all to the cultural differences in the Middle East. Again, I was not disappointed.
However, I was a bit saddened at the manner in which the residents of 'Abu Dhabi' were portrayed. Yes it is a relatively conservative Islamic country. Yes, they do have different standards and moral codes than we do here in the States. And yes, women are less free to express themselves than we are here.
People kept talking about how awful it was that the women were wearing burqas. Well guess what? I didn't see a single burqa in that movie. I saw abayas; I saw veils and chadors, and even hijabs, but no burqas. Trust me, if you saw a burqa you would know it immediately. It totally covers a woman from head to toe and only her eyes and hands are visible.
The younger women are more expressive and they do tend to wear makeup and accessories that their mothers and grandmothers would not. That said, I think that ignoring the culture of a country in which you are a guest is rude and arrogant. The whole Samantha Jones scene with the Danish architect was totally out of line. To openly ignore the beliefs of your hosts and throw their taboos in their faces is so typically American. If you travel you see it first hand. We really believe that we have some unabridged right to do as we please no matter where we are.
I actually saw two movies depicting the lives of women in the Middle East yesterday. When I came home I watched The Stoning of Soraya M. It is about a young Iranian woman who was falsely accused of adultry and sentenced to death by stoning. It was a difficult movie to watch. I am sure it was an even more difficult movie to make. However, it was an important movie.
While I was outraged by the manner in which this woman was framed and tossed to an angry crowd by a sleazy husband who wanted her out of the way to marry a 14 year-old girl, I was not half as outraged as I was at the scene in Sex in the City 2. If you can't have enough respect for your hosts to obey their customs long enough to get through a lousy dinner date, then stay home. If you cannot attempt understand the cultrual differences between the United States and an Islamic country, then don't go.
We, Americans, don't have the best reputation abroad in terms of understanding other cultures and attempting to fit in. So while the stereotype was meant to be a put down of the beliefs in Abu Dhabi, the real stereotypical putdown was of the behavior of a sex-obsessed American woman who felt she had the right to behave however she pleased, irrespective of the wishes, laws, beliefs and moral codes of her hosts.
What does this have to do with fashion? Well there are some incredible Middle Eastern designers. So now, instead of a Sex in the City romp through a beautiful country where only one of 'the girls' even bothered to learn about the customs (Miranda Hobbes) there should be a documentary on Middle Eastern fashion designers and the real women of the Middle East.
Don't get me wrong. I do believe that women in the Middle East are repressed. I do believe that there is far too much emphasis on making women totally cover themselves. But guess what? That's not my call and I have no right to question their cultural or religious beliefs. We claim to be a country of tolerance. What I saw in that scene and a couple of others was total intolerance for a differnt way of life.
The thing that makes this planet so interesting is that we are not all the same. We live in different countries, we have different beliefs and we have a myriad of landscapes on which to play. My great-grandfather was born in France. His parents were from Morocco and Tunisia. Part of that world is in me. I embrace it and I honor it. I am also black in America and I honor that also.
While I do not practice Islam, there is a 90 percent probability that my ancestors did. While I would not choose to live the life of a woman in an extremist Islamic country, I would not dishonor any women who did find themselves living that life.
When in Morocco or Tunisia or Abu Dhabi or Saudi Arabia or Egypt a chador is an easy garment for me to don. It is simply a shawl that is expansive enough to cover my head (actually hair) and serve as a veil. I do not show my arms and legs and I do not show any cleavage. It is disrespectful. What would my great-great grandfather say? Why would I throw sand in his face? My beliefs are my own; but my behavior is on display for the entire world to see.
a la prochaine
Debra
I know that a lot of people think that the plot was weak and that it was a bit too over the top. I didn't go for the plot. I went to see what was being worn and to see if there was any attention at all to the cultural differences in the Middle East. Again, I was not disappointed.
However, I was a bit saddened at the manner in which the residents of 'Abu Dhabi' were portrayed. Yes it is a relatively conservative Islamic country. Yes, they do have different standards and moral codes than we do here in the States. And yes, women are less free to express themselves than we are here.
People kept talking about how awful it was that the women were wearing burqas. Well guess what? I didn't see a single burqa in that movie. I saw abayas; I saw veils and chadors, and even hijabs, but no burqas. Trust me, if you saw a burqa you would know it immediately. It totally covers a woman from head to toe and only her eyes and hands are visible.
The younger women are more expressive and they do tend to wear makeup and accessories that their mothers and grandmothers would not. That said, I think that ignoring the culture of a country in which you are a guest is rude and arrogant. The whole Samantha Jones scene with the Danish architect was totally out of line. To openly ignore the beliefs of your hosts and throw their taboos in their faces is so typically American. If you travel you see it first hand. We really believe that we have some unabridged right to do as we please no matter where we are.
I actually saw two movies depicting the lives of women in the Middle East yesterday. When I came home I watched The Stoning of Soraya M. It is about a young Iranian woman who was falsely accused of adultry and sentenced to death by stoning. It was a difficult movie to watch. I am sure it was an even more difficult movie to make. However, it was an important movie.
While I was outraged by the manner in which this woman was framed and tossed to an angry crowd by a sleazy husband who wanted her out of the way to marry a 14 year-old girl, I was not half as outraged as I was at the scene in Sex in the City 2. If you can't have enough respect for your hosts to obey their customs long enough to get through a lousy dinner date, then stay home. If you cannot attempt understand the cultrual differences between the United States and an Islamic country, then don't go.
We, Americans, don't have the best reputation abroad in terms of understanding other cultures and attempting to fit in. So while the stereotype was meant to be a put down of the beliefs in Abu Dhabi, the real stereotypical putdown was of the behavior of a sex-obsessed American woman who felt she had the right to behave however she pleased, irrespective of the wishes, laws, beliefs and moral codes of her hosts.
What does this have to do with fashion? Well there are some incredible Middle Eastern designers. So now, instead of a Sex in the City romp through a beautiful country where only one of 'the girls' even bothered to learn about the customs (Miranda Hobbes) there should be a documentary on Middle Eastern fashion designers and the real women of the Middle East.
Don't get me wrong. I do believe that women in the Middle East are repressed. I do believe that there is far too much emphasis on making women totally cover themselves. But guess what? That's not my call and I have no right to question their cultural or religious beliefs. We claim to be a country of tolerance. What I saw in that scene and a couple of others was total intolerance for a differnt way of life.
The thing that makes this planet so interesting is that we are not all the same. We live in different countries, we have different beliefs and we have a myriad of landscapes on which to play. My great-grandfather was born in France. His parents were from Morocco and Tunisia. Part of that world is in me. I embrace it and I honor it. I am also black in America and I honor that also.
While I do not practice Islam, there is a 90 percent probability that my ancestors did. While I would not choose to live the life of a woman in an extremist Islamic country, I would not dishonor any women who did find themselves living that life.
When in Morocco or Tunisia or Abu Dhabi or Saudi Arabia or Egypt a chador is an easy garment for me to don. It is simply a shawl that is expansive enough to cover my head (actually hair) and serve as a veil. I do not show my arms and legs and I do not show any cleavage. It is disrespectful. What would my great-great grandfather say? Why would I throw sand in his face? My beliefs are my own; but my behavior is on display for the entire world to see.
a la prochaine
Debra
Monday, July 5, 2010
Two Fashion Icons
If you were to hold court with the Queens of American Fashion, one designer sure to be in the room is Carolina Herrera. There isn’t a woman on the planet who would not want to wear one of her garments and feel really special.
The thing I really love about Ms. Herrera is that she never steps onto the runway at the end of a show looking bedraggled. Putting together a collection is a grueling process and it is sometimes a rush at the last minute to get it all pulled together. You would never know that watching Carolina Herrera acknowledge her guests. She is polished, poised and always radiant. It is almost as if she glows and her collections show it.
I must confess that before looking at the daywear, I went straight to the wedding collection. Even if you aren’t in the market for a wedding gown there is something about the look of a wedding dress and the images that are portrayed. I was not at all disappointed with the collection. No matter what your style; no matter what silhouette you are seeking you will find it in the collection. There is everything from the Princess and her court to that body conscious look that a bride of 30 would love to put on and be whisked away in.
But we are not here to chat about wedding gowns. We are here to chat about the fall collection (which will be in the stores before we know it). Again, I was not disappointed. Of course there were the camels and grays and this incredibly wonderful ruby color. Calling it red would be an injustice. It is rich and truly complements the grays and creams that are splashed on the garments. Her incredible use of color and texture is beyond description. And the cut of the garments is phenomenal. There are some of the most sumptuous trousers that I have seen in a while. They are cut to fit at the waist (none of this low-slung madness with 4 inch zippers). The legs are full and straight and that allows you to really see the drape of the fabric.
I could go on but with is the point. This is a collection you really need to view for yourself. If you are a real fashionista and a Carolina Herrera lover, it is time to scare up as much money as you can and grab a piece or two from this collection. It is timeless and unlike some clothing acquisitions these garments will not become passé, they will surely become vintage.
And now by contrast Nicolas Ghesquiere for Balenciaga is the other side of the coin. Rather than the classic fall look, he has given us something that seems light and fun. It is almost as if he was creating an all season collection. The blues, pale grays and whites go well with the garments he has designed. The look is young and fresh and there are even a couple of looks that a woman of my age would love to have in her closet.
With some of the looks I felt like I was back in the 60’s but not really. It was almost that futuristic Jetson’s feel. It was what we imagined the future would bring us as opposed to what actually arrived. But none the less, there is something classic in some of the looks. It is a blend of fun, ease and wearability (a fashion word that should be in the dictionary by now).
Again, you really need to look at this collection for yourself. A couple of my friends were stunned that I had good things to say about it. They see me as being more classic than edgy and more tailored than deconstructed. However, if they really look at the collection there is a great deal of tailoring in the pieces I would acquire. Check out the pale gray looks worn by Liya Kebede and Sasha Pivovarova. Those I would add to my closet in a heartbeat.
So ladies, get on the internet and look at these shows. The pre-fall collections are arriving in a couple of weeks. It is going to be a great season as we have returned to clothes that you can wear and keep in your closet for many years to come.
a la prochaine
Debra
The thing I really love about Ms. Herrera is that she never steps onto the runway at the end of a show looking bedraggled. Putting together a collection is a grueling process and it is sometimes a rush at the last minute to get it all pulled together. You would never know that watching Carolina Herrera acknowledge her guests. She is polished, poised and always radiant. It is almost as if she glows and her collections show it.
I must confess that before looking at the daywear, I went straight to the wedding collection. Even if you aren’t in the market for a wedding gown there is something about the look of a wedding dress and the images that are portrayed. I was not at all disappointed with the collection. No matter what your style; no matter what silhouette you are seeking you will find it in the collection. There is everything from the Princess and her court to that body conscious look that a bride of 30 would love to put on and be whisked away in.
But we are not here to chat about wedding gowns. We are here to chat about the fall collection (which will be in the stores before we know it). Again, I was not disappointed. Of course there were the camels and grays and this incredibly wonderful ruby color. Calling it red would be an injustice. It is rich and truly complements the grays and creams that are splashed on the garments. Her incredible use of color and texture is beyond description. And the cut of the garments is phenomenal. There are some of the most sumptuous trousers that I have seen in a while. They are cut to fit at the waist (none of this low-slung madness with 4 inch zippers). The legs are full and straight and that allows you to really see the drape of the fabric.
I could go on but with is the point. This is a collection you really need to view for yourself. If you are a real fashionista and a Carolina Herrera lover, it is time to scare up as much money as you can and grab a piece or two from this collection. It is timeless and unlike some clothing acquisitions these garments will not become passé, they will surely become vintage.
And now by contrast Nicolas Ghesquiere for Balenciaga is the other side of the coin. Rather than the classic fall look, he has given us something that seems light and fun. It is almost as if he was creating an all season collection. The blues, pale grays and whites go well with the garments he has designed. The look is young and fresh and there are even a couple of looks that a woman of my age would love to have in her closet.
With some of the looks I felt like I was back in the 60’s but not really. It was almost that futuristic Jetson’s feel. It was what we imagined the future would bring us as opposed to what actually arrived. But none the less, there is something classic in some of the looks. It is a blend of fun, ease and wearability (a fashion word that should be in the dictionary by now).
Again, you really need to look at this collection for yourself. A couple of my friends were stunned that I had good things to say about it. They see me as being more classic than edgy and more tailored than deconstructed. However, if they really look at the collection there is a great deal of tailoring in the pieces I would acquire. Check out the pale gray looks worn by Liya Kebede and Sasha Pivovarova. Those I would add to my closet in a heartbeat.
So ladies, get on the internet and look at these shows. The pre-fall collections are arriving in a couple of weeks. It is going to be a great season as we have returned to clothes that you can wear and keep in your closet for many years to come.
a la prochaine
Debra
Friday, July 2, 2010
I Have Not Forgotten
I have not forgotten that I promised to give you my take on the collections of Carolina Herrera and Nicolas Ghesquiere for Balenciaga. As usual, life sometimes gets in the way of all of your wonderful plans. I am once again back on track and will give you the 411 on those collections over the weekend. For now, I want to blog about something that really is important to me.
I was scanning some of my old magazines last evening and I ran across some photos of Christian LaCroix's last collection. I was really saddened that there may not be any collections to follow. It is not that he was one of my favorite designers; it is that he is a designer with his own style and an unmistakable talent for blending beauty and shock.
A few years ago I was looking for gifts for my brothers and my dad so I decided to pick up a few Christian LaCroix ties for them. It was one of the best times I had selecting gifts. Each tie was an incredible blend of color and patterns. So, mixing and matching with shirts ties and foulards was a pleasure.
I also got my dad this really pale yellow casual jacket to wear with jeans. I remember the sales associate asking me how old my father was. When I told him he was 80 he suggested different designers thinking that Mr. LaCroix would be too edgy for my dad. Well my dad is still wearing that jacket five years later and loves it.
It makes you wonder why it is okay for men, irrespective of age to wear garments that they really love; but when it comes to women the question of whether the garment is age appropriate always comes up. Maybe it is the general attitude about women and youth in this country. I don't see it so much in Europe. But here, there really is a tendency to stock the stores with clothing that is going to make grown women look totally inappropriate.
Once more, enter the game. If you are 45 and looking for a really great top to go with a pair of linen pants that you just purchased what is the section of the store that you will most likely be sent to in order to find this great top? Actually, it is a category of clothing. Those in the industry know these categories and religiously send women off to the appropriate sections of the store to find the '"age appropriate" garments.
A 45 year old woman shopping at Nordstrom would be sent to Narrative or Point of View, or if she is really edgy, Individualist or Savvy. But more than likely you are going to be sent off to Point of View or Narrative. If you go in looking well put together you be sent to Studio 121 or Collectors. But t.b.d. and via C are the exclusive domain of the 30 and under crowd.
The selections of the large commercial retail buyers are the one thing that has turned me into a boutique shopper. If I want a selection of great boutiques all in one place, I go to Saks. I just head up to the third floor and start looking around. It may be a different floor in your city so just go and check out the designer sportswear department. You are sure to find something that is really great.
I included all of the above to keep you from searching the paragraph with the question for the answer. The "category" of clothing for women 35 and up is called 'bridge'. To me it is a crazy name and an even crazier concept. What exactly are they 'bridging'? If I could rename everything it would be 'children’s', 'young adults', then "bridge" and next contemporary'.
But that is just me. My real goal, as you all know by now, is to get better choices and a wider range of options in the stores. Who would that hurt? It certainly would not hurt the designers, the retailers or the customers. Sounds like a win-win to me.
a la prochaine
Debra
I was scanning some of my old magazines last evening and I ran across some photos of Christian LaCroix's last collection. I was really saddened that there may not be any collections to follow. It is not that he was one of my favorite designers; it is that he is a designer with his own style and an unmistakable talent for blending beauty and shock.
A few years ago I was looking for gifts for my brothers and my dad so I decided to pick up a few Christian LaCroix ties for them. It was one of the best times I had selecting gifts. Each tie was an incredible blend of color and patterns. So, mixing and matching with shirts ties and foulards was a pleasure.
I also got my dad this really pale yellow casual jacket to wear with jeans. I remember the sales associate asking me how old my father was. When I told him he was 80 he suggested different designers thinking that Mr. LaCroix would be too edgy for my dad. Well my dad is still wearing that jacket five years later and loves it.
It makes you wonder why it is okay for men, irrespective of age to wear garments that they really love; but when it comes to women the question of whether the garment is age appropriate always comes up. Maybe it is the general attitude about women and youth in this country. I don't see it so much in Europe. But here, there really is a tendency to stock the stores with clothing that is going to make grown women look totally inappropriate.
Once more, enter the game. If you are 45 and looking for a really great top to go with a pair of linen pants that you just purchased what is the section of the store that you will most likely be sent to in order to find this great top? Actually, it is a category of clothing. Those in the industry know these categories and religiously send women off to the appropriate sections of the store to find the '"age appropriate" garments.
A 45 year old woman shopping at Nordstrom would be sent to Narrative or Point of View, or if she is really edgy, Individualist or Savvy. But more than likely you are going to be sent off to Point of View or Narrative. If you go in looking well put together you be sent to Studio 121 or Collectors. But t.b.d. and via C are the exclusive domain of the 30 and under crowd.
The selections of the large commercial retail buyers are the one thing that has turned me into a boutique shopper. If I want a selection of great boutiques all in one place, I go to Saks. I just head up to the third floor and start looking around. It may be a different floor in your city so just go and check out the designer sportswear department. You are sure to find something that is really great.
I included all of the above to keep you from searching the paragraph with the question for the answer. The "category" of clothing for women 35 and up is called 'bridge'. To me it is a crazy name and an even crazier concept. What exactly are they 'bridging'? If I could rename everything it would be 'children’s', 'young adults', then "bridge" and next contemporary'.
But that is just me. My real goal, as you all know by now, is to get better choices and a wider range of options in the stores. Who would that hurt? It certainly would not hurt the designers, the retailers or the customers. Sounds like a win-win to me.
a la prochaine
Debra
Monday, June 7, 2010
We Stand Corrected!!
When we make a mistake we will own up to it. We forgot about the celebrated Rick Owens. He too is a member of La Chambre Syndicale de la Couture. And since we are California residents (if not natives) we should have been more vigilant about our rundown of American designers who have been certified by La Chambre Synidcale. So Mr. Owens, our apologies. We did not mean any disrespect. Your accomplishments have been and should be noted.
A friend called me and asked what the English translation for La Chambre Syndicale would be and it is really a trade union for haute couture or high fashion. It really allows these incredible designers to create and then La Chambre Syndicale regulates how they are reveiewed, how their brands are licensed and how they are shown each year. It is really to protect the designers. It prevents people like me from coming in and seeing something I really like and trying to knock it off.
Having said that, I would never knock off a designer's garment. First it is not legal. Second, it is unfair to the designer. Third, I would probably do a really bad job as I do not have the credentials to actually purchase a pattern or toile, and God knows that I cannot draw. Also, I am not in a postion to purchase a licensing agreement to put one or more of their designs into production. So every single designer on the planet is safe with me. I am not credentialed and I can't draw.
So that is a bit of additional information. I also wanted to pay homage to Yves Saint Laurent. Saturday, June 5, 2010 was the second anniversary of his passing. I am not sure if everyone is really aware of what a great artist we lost with his passing. I can't imagine the world of fashion had he not made his appearance at the age of 17. To arrive from Algeria with a stunning portfolio of sketches and bowl over Christian Dior tells you what an artist he was.
So on Saturday, June 5, 2010 I again played "Sous Le Vent" and drank a glass of wine in honor of the one designer who would have rendered me speechless in his presence. My sincerest wish is that he has found peace. No one deserves it more.
Okay, Valentino would have done the same thing to me but I still have a chance of meeting him again; that is if I work up the nerve.
Oh and by the way, Valentino's last name is Garavani.
a la prochaine
Debra
A friend called me and asked what the English translation for La Chambre Syndicale would be and it is really a trade union for haute couture or high fashion. It really allows these incredible designers to create and then La Chambre Syndicale regulates how they are reveiewed, how their brands are licensed and how they are shown each year. It is really to protect the designers. It prevents people like me from coming in and seeing something I really like and trying to knock it off.
Having said that, I would never knock off a designer's garment. First it is not legal. Second, it is unfair to the designer. Third, I would probably do a really bad job as I do not have the credentials to actually purchase a pattern or toile, and God knows that I cannot draw. Also, I am not in a postion to purchase a licensing agreement to put one or more of their designs into production. So every single designer on the planet is safe with me. I am not credentialed and I can't draw.
So that is a bit of additional information. I also wanted to pay homage to Yves Saint Laurent. Saturday, June 5, 2010 was the second anniversary of his passing. I am not sure if everyone is really aware of what a great artist we lost with his passing. I can't imagine the world of fashion had he not made his appearance at the age of 17. To arrive from Algeria with a stunning portfolio of sketches and bowl over Christian Dior tells you what an artist he was.
So on Saturday, June 5, 2010 I again played "Sous Le Vent" and drank a glass of wine in honor of the one designer who would have rendered me speechless in his presence. My sincerest wish is that he has found peace. No one deserves it more.
Okay, Valentino would have done the same thing to me but I still have a chance of meeting him again; that is if I work up the nerve.
Oh and by the way, Valentino's last name is Garavani.
a la prochaine
Debra
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Who Can Call Themself a Couture Designer
Okay here it is. You can call yourself a couturier if you are a fashion designer. However you cannot call yourself a couture designer unless La Chamber Syndicale de la Couture has certified you as such. Here are the requirements. To join the ranks of the elite houses who create haute couture you must create a minimum of 50 new and original designs (a combination of day and evening wear) for each collection and you must show two times per year. Additionally you must employ at least 20 fulltime technicians in at least one atelier (workshop).
So when people tell you that they are going to the couture shows that means that they are traveling to Paris in January or July. So if they are headed to New York, Milan, Barcelona, London or anywhere else the designer show they go to may indeed have been created by someone who has been certified by La Chambre Syndicale; but, it will be a luxury ready to wear show. As I indicated in the last post, the only American designer who is actually certified by La Chambre is Ralph Rucci. His label, Chado is not couture. It is luxury pret-a-porter (ready-to wear).
There are even requirement about how the garments are made in order to consider the garments couture. Remember the snooty Emily in the Devil Wears Prada waxing dreamily about about getting to go to Paris in the fall and getting to wear couture? Well I laughed because she would have missed the couture shows by three months. Not only that, if the clothes she was given were already made and crafted mostly by machine, and she had not had at least one fitting it is not a couture garment. Couture garments must be at least 50% hand crafted.
These garments are for the most part created for private clients and tend to be one of a kind. So if you have a dress maker and that dress maker selects and redesigns a pattern and then creates a garment exclusively for you, your garment is couture. Sadly, your dressmaker, unless certified by La Chambre Syndical, is not. So as incredible a designer as Oscar de la Renta or Carolina Herrera or Donna Karan or Vera Wang or Calvin Klein may be, not one of them can elevate themselves to the ranks of the Couture; and they cannot claim to have couture houses.
That said, don't be discouraged. Those haute couture fashions do make their way to the ready to wear market. Designers flock to those shows in order to get inspiration. Some of them will even buy toiles or patterns, recut them or redesign them in some way and create their own designs for the ready to wear market. They can even get a licensing agreement to mass produce a design as-is.
And trust me, those couture designer are not crazy. They all design collections for the ready to wear shows and for the most part will have several labels at various price points in the market. The great ones actually design for several labels. They will also license a couture design to a manufacturer in order to put it in mass production.
So let's begin your fashion education and give you a glimpse of the types of questions you are going to find in the game the Fashion Project is creating. Name the three labels that Karl Lagerfeld currently oversees? Next, in addition to his own label, which design house does Jean Paul Gauthier run? Finally, upon the death of Christian Dior, who was selected to step in as the artistic director? Okay, one more; name the organization charged with the honor of safeguarding the legacy of Yves Saint Laurent.
How did you do on those? All of us with the Fashion Project are full of fashion factoids. For true fashionistas the game is going to be an incredible high. For those who love trivia, it will be the best and most stylish game on the planet. Stay tuned as we keep plugging away to get it off the ground. If you have any pull with any fashion photographers, we would love to hear from you. We need them to play with us to make this happen!
Mr. Lagerfeld oversees the collections created for Lagerfeld, Chanel and Fendi. He and Valentino are great friends and he would, on occasion, whip up a design or two for his buddy. And by the way, what is Valentino's last name?
Jean Paul Gauthier also oversees the collection created for Hermes. Sometimes I cannot even see Gauthier's influence in the Hermes collection. Maybe that is why he is so good and one of the past presidents of La Chambre Syndicale.
Upon the death of Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent was elevated to oversee the design house. And his (YSL's) legacy is lovingly safeguarded by La Fondation Pierre Berge.
a la prochaine
Debra
So when people tell you that they are going to the couture shows that means that they are traveling to Paris in January or July. So if they are headed to New York, Milan, Barcelona, London or anywhere else the designer show they go to may indeed have been created by someone who has been certified by La Chambre Syndicale; but, it will be a luxury ready to wear show. As I indicated in the last post, the only American designer who is actually certified by La Chambre is Ralph Rucci. His label, Chado is not couture. It is luxury pret-a-porter (ready-to wear).
There are even requirement about how the garments are made in order to consider the garments couture. Remember the snooty Emily in the Devil Wears Prada waxing dreamily about about getting to go to Paris in the fall and getting to wear couture? Well I laughed because she would have missed the couture shows by three months. Not only that, if the clothes she was given were already made and crafted mostly by machine, and she had not had at least one fitting it is not a couture garment. Couture garments must be at least 50% hand crafted.
These garments are for the most part created for private clients and tend to be one of a kind. So if you have a dress maker and that dress maker selects and redesigns a pattern and then creates a garment exclusively for you, your garment is couture. Sadly, your dressmaker, unless certified by La Chambre Syndical, is not. So as incredible a designer as Oscar de la Renta or Carolina Herrera or Donna Karan or Vera Wang or Calvin Klein may be, not one of them can elevate themselves to the ranks of the Couture; and they cannot claim to have couture houses.
That said, don't be discouraged. Those haute couture fashions do make their way to the ready to wear market. Designers flock to those shows in order to get inspiration. Some of them will even buy toiles or patterns, recut them or redesign them in some way and create their own designs for the ready to wear market. They can even get a licensing agreement to mass produce a design as-is.
And trust me, those couture designer are not crazy. They all design collections for the ready to wear shows and for the most part will have several labels at various price points in the market. The great ones actually design for several labels. They will also license a couture design to a manufacturer in order to put it in mass production.
So let's begin your fashion education and give you a glimpse of the types of questions you are going to find in the game the Fashion Project is creating. Name the three labels that Karl Lagerfeld currently oversees? Next, in addition to his own label, which design house does Jean Paul Gauthier run? Finally, upon the death of Christian Dior, who was selected to step in as the artistic director? Okay, one more; name the organization charged with the honor of safeguarding the legacy of Yves Saint Laurent.
How did you do on those? All of us with the Fashion Project are full of fashion factoids. For true fashionistas the game is going to be an incredible high. For those who love trivia, it will be the best and most stylish game on the planet. Stay tuned as we keep plugging away to get it off the ground. If you have any pull with any fashion photographers, we would love to hear from you. We need them to play with us to make this happen!
Mr. Lagerfeld oversees the collections created for Lagerfeld, Chanel and Fendi. He and Valentino are great friends and he would, on occasion, whip up a design or two for his buddy. And by the way, what is Valentino's last name?
Jean Paul Gauthier also oversees the collection created for Hermes. Sometimes I cannot even see Gauthier's influence in the Hermes collection. Maybe that is why he is so good and one of the past presidents of La Chambre Syndicale.
Upon the death of Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent was elevated to oversee the design house. And his (YSL's) legacy is lovingly safeguarded by La Fondation Pierre Berge.
a la prochaine
Debra
Sunday, May 30, 2010
I'm Back!!!!!
Well I took a bit of a break from blogging. For some reason it just got a bit overwhelming and I needed to step back and figure a few things out. I'm still going to review the fall collections; we'll take a little trip to the couture shows; and of course we will do our usual romp through the fall season.
It's funny. I love Paris in the fall. However, I love the collections that preview in March. I am more of a fall/winter dresser. Spring and summer are not bad. I just prefer the richness of the fabrics for fall and winter.
The reason I took a break was to watch "September Issue". I was in Bellevue when it came out and then when it was released it flew off of the shelves. I finally got a copy and I will say this, it did not disappoint. Do I have more empathy for Anna Wintour after seeing this documentary? Unfortunately no, I do not. To me she embodies everything that makes the industry unapproachable. To perpetuate everything that is negative about fashion saddens me.
For those who have not seen "September Issue" think back to "The Devil Wears Prada". Miranda Priestly was a caricature of Anna Wintour. To be fair, I do not know Ms. Wintour. Some who do know her say that her behavior is a shield and that she is actually shy. That may be. However, what is wrong with a bit of humility? What happend to treating people kindly and humanely? Why does she believe that she is single-handedly in charge of what I can buy, what I get to wear and even what I get to see?
If you are new to fashion go and invest in the latest issue of American Vogue. Then in contrast, grab the latest issue of Vogue Italia or French Vogue. The differences are amazing. American Vogue isn't really about fashion. It is about celebrity and advertisers. The European and Asian editions do have celebs and ads. But, by and large, they are about fashion.
American designers (and some European designers also) pay far too much attention to the musings of Anna Wintour. As a result if you wear even a size 8 in America, you'd hit the runways as a full-figured model. God help you if you wear a size 12. Then again, never mind that the most comon size for women in America is a 14. You are considered gi-hugic!!
After the obsession with being freakishly thin you move on to the obsession with youth. You hear them (the poeple in the industry) refer to it as being "fresh". What, you can't be 45 or even 60 and fresh? I see it in Paris every single day. Actual grown women who are stylish, fashionable and fresh.
The problem is that in America there is a fear and even an embarassment about aging. To me that is absurd. The alternative to aging is death. Which would you prefer? Give me as many trips around the sun as I can have. Each and every trip is a gift. My Aunt Mitte turns 100 on Tuesday, June 1st. Imagine the rich and wonderful stories she can tell. Just imagine the changes in the world, technology and society she has seen and lived through. So, if I have to get crows feet and laugh lines - - - bring them on!!! I want to be a member of the tribe for as long as I can.
Our goal at the Fashion Project is to let every woman know that she has the right to 'fashion'. Not only are we going to arm you with the tools to create your own style, we are going to keep reinforcing these ideas. Whether you are a size 2 or 22, whether you are 18 or 88, you count. You should be able to purchase beautiful stylish clothes that fit your lifestyle. You should be able to wear them proudly, no matter what!!
So, I am back in fighting form. J'ai revien ( I have returned).
Next post - - Balenciaga and Carolina Herrera? Also, if you have any requests for reviews of labels, post them in a comment. We'd love to comment on your favorite labels.
And before I go, my next post is going to explain the difference between couture and luxury labels. If one more person asks me if I am going to the couture shows in NYC I am going to scream. There would only be one show and it would have to be a collection by Ralph Rucci. He is the only couturier in America certified by La Chambre Syndicale de la Couture. I kid you not.
a la prochaine
Debra
It's funny. I love Paris in the fall. However, I love the collections that preview in March. I am more of a fall/winter dresser. Spring and summer are not bad. I just prefer the richness of the fabrics for fall and winter.
The reason I took a break was to watch "September Issue". I was in Bellevue when it came out and then when it was released it flew off of the shelves. I finally got a copy and I will say this, it did not disappoint. Do I have more empathy for Anna Wintour after seeing this documentary? Unfortunately no, I do not. To me she embodies everything that makes the industry unapproachable. To perpetuate everything that is negative about fashion saddens me.
For those who have not seen "September Issue" think back to "The Devil Wears Prada". Miranda Priestly was a caricature of Anna Wintour. To be fair, I do not know Ms. Wintour. Some who do know her say that her behavior is a shield and that she is actually shy. That may be. However, what is wrong with a bit of humility? What happend to treating people kindly and humanely? Why does she believe that she is single-handedly in charge of what I can buy, what I get to wear and even what I get to see?
If you are new to fashion go and invest in the latest issue of American Vogue. Then in contrast, grab the latest issue of Vogue Italia or French Vogue. The differences are amazing. American Vogue isn't really about fashion. It is about celebrity and advertisers. The European and Asian editions do have celebs and ads. But, by and large, they are about fashion.
American designers (and some European designers also) pay far too much attention to the musings of Anna Wintour. As a result if you wear even a size 8 in America, you'd hit the runways as a full-figured model. God help you if you wear a size 12. Then again, never mind that the most comon size for women in America is a 14. You are considered gi-hugic!!
After the obsession with being freakishly thin you move on to the obsession with youth. You hear them (the poeple in the industry) refer to it as being "fresh". What, you can't be 45 or even 60 and fresh? I see it in Paris every single day. Actual grown women who are stylish, fashionable and fresh.
The problem is that in America there is a fear and even an embarassment about aging. To me that is absurd. The alternative to aging is death. Which would you prefer? Give me as many trips around the sun as I can have. Each and every trip is a gift. My Aunt Mitte turns 100 on Tuesday, June 1st. Imagine the rich and wonderful stories she can tell. Just imagine the changes in the world, technology and society she has seen and lived through. So, if I have to get crows feet and laugh lines - - - bring them on!!! I want to be a member of the tribe for as long as I can.
Our goal at the Fashion Project is to let every woman know that she has the right to 'fashion'. Not only are we going to arm you with the tools to create your own style, we are going to keep reinforcing these ideas. Whether you are a size 2 or 22, whether you are 18 or 88, you count. You should be able to purchase beautiful stylish clothes that fit your lifestyle. You should be able to wear them proudly, no matter what!!
So, I am back in fighting form. J'ai revien ( I have returned).
Next post - - Balenciaga and Carolina Herrera? Also, if you have any requests for reviews of labels, post them in a comment. We'd love to comment on your favorite labels.
And before I go, my next post is going to explain the difference between couture and luxury labels. If one more person asks me if I am going to the couture shows in NYC I am going to scream. There would only be one show and it would have to be a collection by Ralph Rucci. He is the only couturier in America certified by La Chambre Syndicale de la Couture. I kid you not.
a la prochaine
Debra
Saturday, April 17, 2010
Going on a Rant
Okay, I am about to go on a bit of a rant. We are in NYC at Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. Of course all of the heavy hitters were there and showed a collection. Among them was Michael Kors. Some of you only know him from Project Runway. Some of you only know him for his other label Michael by Michael Kors. The rant is not because of anything he did at Fashion Week. The rant is because of the look of his collection and some of the comments he makes to young designers on Project Runway.
He has often admonished the contestants on Project Runway for not bringing forth an original design. His whole, ‘seen it’, ‘not innovative’, and other comments are now so not appropriate. The Michael Kors collection for Fall 2010 is a revisit of many designers, primarily Donna Karan. Except for the ill fitting trousers, you could probably raid the closet of a couple of well dressed friends, put all of the stuff together and come up with a wardrobe to rival that collection.
As Janice and I looked at the collection we kept saying ‘Donna’, ‘Oscar’, ‘Ralph”, etc. You get the picture. Had I not seen him rail on people on PR, this would not have bothered me. They were new takes on old concepts; but they were certainly not original. There isn’t a designer on the planet who doesn’t get some inspiration from their fellow designers. However, let’s be fair. Don’t admonish others for something you do yourself.
Chris March should laugh because Kors was slightly put off by the use of human hair as trim. And what does Michael Kors do --- he gives you a faux fur skirt. He admonished designers who had too much volume around the hip. Well what about that bubble like faux fur skirt? That certainly isn’t slimming. Saying that no woman wants a big behind is not true. There are cultures where it is considered beautiful to have a butt. As a black woman one of the worst attributes is to have a flat behind. You want that hook. I want that hook!
That said, the colors were great. There are greys and camels that really make you understand that fall has arrived. There are some wonderful chunky knits that are just right for the cold foggy days that greet you in October (or July and August if you live in San Francisco). There are some knits that appear to be blended with lurex to give then some sparkle.
Save for the obviously tailored jackets and coats, everything else is a bit deconstructed. It is softly tailored so as not to seem harsh and stiff. For that I will give him credit. There are a couple of coats I would love but all in all the collection was a sign of the times. Excluding the faux fur skirt (yes that is the third mention as I found it hideous) these are clothes that women will wear and can have in their closet for a long time.
Okay, there are some sheer knit tops that are a bit problematic and there are some deeply vee’d sweaters that are also going to need some underpinnings for the not so model like women to pull it off. The ill fitting pants can be taken care of in alterations. I just don’t like pants that are that baggy in the crotch. A pleated trouser is one thing. These pants are too low on the hip for that type of fit to look attractive.
So I guess all in all, it isn’t a bad collection. It just wasn’t fitting for someone who constantly talks about originality and setting a high bar. He does sports wear well. He is good at his craft. I just wish he was a bit less snide when it comes to dealing with young designers.
a la prochaine
Debra
He has often admonished the contestants on Project Runway for not bringing forth an original design. His whole, ‘seen it’, ‘not innovative’, and other comments are now so not appropriate. The Michael Kors collection for Fall 2010 is a revisit of many designers, primarily Donna Karan. Except for the ill fitting trousers, you could probably raid the closet of a couple of well dressed friends, put all of the stuff together and come up with a wardrobe to rival that collection.
As Janice and I looked at the collection we kept saying ‘Donna’, ‘Oscar’, ‘Ralph”, etc. You get the picture. Had I not seen him rail on people on PR, this would not have bothered me. They were new takes on old concepts; but they were certainly not original. There isn’t a designer on the planet who doesn’t get some inspiration from their fellow designers. However, let’s be fair. Don’t admonish others for something you do yourself.
Chris March should laugh because Kors was slightly put off by the use of human hair as trim. And what does Michael Kors do --- he gives you a faux fur skirt. He admonished designers who had too much volume around the hip. Well what about that bubble like faux fur skirt? That certainly isn’t slimming. Saying that no woman wants a big behind is not true. There are cultures where it is considered beautiful to have a butt. As a black woman one of the worst attributes is to have a flat behind. You want that hook. I want that hook!
That said, the colors were great. There are greys and camels that really make you understand that fall has arrived. There are some wonderful chunky knits that are just right for the cold foggy days that greet you in October (or July and August if you live in San Francisco). There are some knits that appear to be blended with lurex to give then some sparkle.
Save for the obviously tailored jackets and coats, everything else is a bit deconstructed. It is softly tailored so as not to seem harsh and stiff. For that I will give him credit. There are a couple of coats I would love but all in all the collection was a sign of the times. Excluding the faux fur skirt (yes that is the third mention as I found it hideous) these are clothes that women will wear and can have in their closet for a long time.
Okay, there are some sheer knit tops that are a bit problematic and there are some deeply vee’d sweaters that are also going to need some underpinnings for the not so model like women to pull it off. The ill fitting pants can be taken care of in alterations. I just don’t like pants that are that baggy in the crotch. A pleated trouser is one thing. These pants are too low on the hip for that type of fit to look attractive.
So I guess all in all, it isn’t a bad collection. It just wasn’t fitting for someone who constantly talks about originality and setting a high bar. He does sports wear well. He is good at his craft. I just wish he was a bit less snide when it comes to dealing with young designers.
a la prochaine
Debra
Thursday, April 15, 2010
In My Opinion
Here is the thing about evaluating fashion. It is purely subjective. If you read the comments posted by Style.com the personality of the three reviewers comes out loud and clear. There is a review of the Costume National collection and in that review there is a statement that Ennio Capasa would be better off showing in Milan as opposed to Paris. However the writer, Hadley Freeman later comments that Paris may be rubbing off on Capasa.
Ennio Capasa is seen as too Italian with skirts that are very short and a bit more edgy and sexy than the Paris scene. That hard edge is just not Parisian enough to put Capasa in the same category as say, Haider Ackermann. Nicole Phelps refers to the Ackermann collection as “serenely gorgeous”. To me Haider Ackermann is incredibly intricate and so much edgier than Costume National it isn’t funny. No one has ever suggested that Ackerman was not chic enough for Paris or that he was too edgy.
Note the extremely sculpted leather vest over the body conscious, dark taupe dress with the asymmetrical hem. No it isn’t Italian sexy nor is it extremely short. However, if it isn’t a hot look then I am mystified. Haider Ackermann has leather and he has slits up to there. With the total devotion to asymmetry it links him undeniably to the French style. No one does asymmetry better than the gang in France.
I know that a lot of people are now wondering why I am saying France as opposed to Paris. Well that’s because Paris may be the fashion capitol of France but there are designers who are from Lyon, Marseilles, Nice, Cannes and all over the country.
As you read the reviews in this blog remember that our comments are based on our personalities and our taste. If I had to choose between Costume National and Haider Ackermann, my choice would be Haider Ackermann. It is a more interesting and complicated look. It requires less accessorizing and in some ways for me it is edgy, yet very easy to take on a stroll around the block.
Are you going to get questions? Absolutely! The question is going to be who are you wearing and where did you get it? I believe that selected Saks Fifth Avenue stores carry the label and also selected Nordstrom stores; but for certain, you can find him in Paris, London and Rome. I have not been to Belgium lately but I would assume that since he is Belgian, Brussels will have plenty of retailers carrying the label.
So as I have said before, don’t take our word for what is hot and what is not. Look for yourself and then let us know if you agree with anything we write here. If you don’t, feel free to take us on. Just like we believe that fashion and style is your birthright, we also believe that you have the right to be heard.
a la prochaine
Debra
Ennio Capasa is seen as too Italian with skirts that are very short and a bit more edgy and sexy than the Paris scene. That hard edge is just not Parisian enough to put Capasa in the same category as say, Haider Ackermann. Nicole Phelps refers to the Ackermann collection as “serenely gorgeous”. To me Haider Ackermann is incredibly intricate and so much edgier than Costume National it isn’t funny. No one has ever suggested that Ackerman was not chic enough for Paris or that he was too edgy.
Note the extremely sculpted leather vest over the body conscious, dark taupe dress with the asymmetrical hem. No it isn’t Italian sexy nor is it extremely short. However, if it isn’t a hot look then I am mystified. Haider Ackermann has leather and he has slits up to there. With the total devotion to asymmetry it links him undeniably to the French style. No one does asymmetry better than the gang in France.
I know that a lot of people are now wondering why I am saying France as opposed to Paris. Well that’s because Paris may be the fashion capitol of France but there are designers who are from Lyon, Marseilles, Nice, Cannes and all over the country.
As you read the reviews in this blog remember that our comments are based on our personalities and our taste. If I had to choose between Costume National and Haider Ackermann, my choice would be Haider Ackermann. It is a more interesting and complicated look. It requires less accessorizing and in some ways for me it is edgy, yet very easy to take on a stroll around the block.
Are you going to get questions? Absolutely! The question is going to be who are you wearing and where did you get it? I believe that selected Saks Fifth Avenue stores carry the label and also selected Nordstrom stores; but for certain, you can find him in Paris, London and Rome. I have not been to Belgium lately but I would assume that since he is Belgian, Brussels will have plenty of retailers carrying the label.
So as I have said before, don’t take our word for what is hot and what is not. Look for yourself and then let us know if you agree with anything we write here. If you don’t, feel free to take us on. Just like we believe that fashion and style is your birthright, we also believe that you have the right to be heard.
a la prochaine
Debra
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Where Does it Get this Cold?
Karl Lagerfeld, for Chanel, took us to a place I had no idea existed. I can’t imagine where it gets so cold that you would wear fur pants. I kid you not; there is a whole collection of fur pants. Okay the fur was faux fur; but when you are paying these prices, even faux fur looks real.
Then there are the fur ugg-type boots with clear Lucite heals that I assume are for warmth because they can’t possibly for anything else. So again, the question - - where does it get this cold? My thought is that uggs belong at ski resorts and should not be seen on city streets. That’s just me. However Mr. Lagerfeld clearly does not share that sentiment.
Being originally from the Pacific Northwest the collection really did remind me of Inuit clothing. The native Alaskan tribe would look at this collection and I am not sure if they would be honored or offended. No it was not traditional but there was something very aboriginal about the collection. I would imagine that there was also Lapp influence. So, native people of the north, rejoice. Mr. Lagerfeld has a collection that appears to be in your honor.
So, set this stage; ice caves and ice floes, arctic scenery and snow. No models of color, except Shu Pei Qin and Liu Wen. That made the whole scene believable as of course there are no people with dark skin living in cold climates. Yeah, right!
As everyone knows we sat out Paris this year and opted for a more leisurely romp through the shows on line. Once I viewed the Chanel show I was glad I was not there. Paris can be frigid in March and this March, it was just that. I would have run to the nearest café and ordered a wonderful Parisian hot chocolate. Then I would have run back to the apartment to sit by the fireplace with a pot of tea. If nothing else the scene was believable and you realized that the mood was Nordic.
Don’t get me wrong. Some of the classic Chanel touches were there. The texture and ruffles that the label is known for were evident. The use of black and white was prominent. And, while the concept was originally birthed by his now departed colleague Yves Saint Laurent, Mr. Lagerfeld did include a new take on the tuxedo jacket paired with a white high-waist pant with a black waistband and a bowtie.
As with the other designers, there was a lot of knitwear. I can say that the Chanel knits were luxurious and done in a way to look like boucle. There was even a knit wedding dress. However, it was a bit busy for my taste. It is full of ruffles and pompoms and what looks like knitted tulle.
For the most part this was a very high fashion collection. It was almost to the point where I would have rather seen it rolled out in January at the couture shows. There are very few ‘commercial’ pieces in this collection.
One of the most commercial pieces is a smart cocktail dress in charcoal grey with a black banded hem. It has a very flattering square neckline, short sleeves and a modified baby doll silhouette. It would be a great choice for a woman who was going to an event that required cocktail attire and she was looking for something comfortable because she was pregnant.
There is also another great cocktail dress, again in black, with an empire waist and a modified trapeze skirt. It has a keyhole neckline with matching jeweled appliqués on the cuff of each long sleeve and as the top closure for the keyhole. So if you need a great dress at the age of 45 or above, again you have it in this garment.
Chanel never disappoints. You will always get a great show. You will always see the theme of the collection in the set. You will always know that Karl Lagerfeld was there and that his vision is driven by something few will ever understand.
a la prochaine
Debra
Then there are the fur ugg-type boots with clear Lucite heals that I assume are for warmth because they can’t possibly for anything else. So again, the question - - where does it get this cold? My thought is that uggs belong at ski resorts and should not be seen on city streets. That’s just me. However Mr. Lagerfeld clearly does not share that sentiment.
Being originally from the Pacific Northwest the collection really did remind me of Inuit clothing. The native Alaskan tribe would look at this collection and I am not sure if they would be honored or offended. No it was not traditional but there was something very aboriginal about the collection. I would imagine that there was also Lapp influence. So, native people of the north, rejoice. Mr. Lagerfeld has a collection that appears to be in your honor.
So, set this stage; ice caves and ice floes, arctic scenery and snow. No models of color, except Shu Pei Qin and Liu Wen. That made the whole scene believable as of course there are no people with dark skin living in cold climates. Yeah, right!
As everyone knows we sat out Paris this year and opted for a more leisurely romp through the shows on line. Once I viewed the Chanel show I was glad I was not there. Paris can be frigid in March and this March, it was just that. I would have run to the nearest café and ordered a wonderful Parisian hot chocolate. Then I would have run back to the apartment to sit by the fireplace with a pot of tea. If nothing else the scene was believable and you realized that the mood was Nordic.
Don’t get me wrong. Some of the classic Chanel touches were there. The texture and ruffles that the label is known for were evident. The use of black and white was prominent. And, while the concept was originally birthed by his now departed colleague Yves Saint Laurent, Mr. Lagerfeld did include a new take on the tuxedo jacket paired with a white high-waist pant with a black waistband and a bowtie.
As with the other designers, there was a lot of knitwear. I can say that the Chanel knits were luxurious and done in a way to look like boucle. There was even a knit wedding dress. However, it was a bit busy for my taste. It is full of ruffles and pompoms and what looks like knitted tulle.
For the most part this was a very high fashion collection. It was almost to the point where I would have rather seen it rolled out in January at the couture shows. There are very few ‘commercial’ pieces in this collection.
One of the most commercial pieces is a smart cocktail dress in charcoal grey with a black banded hem. It has a very flattering square neckline, short sleeves and a modified baby doll silhouette. It would be a great choice for a woman who was going to an event that required cocktail attire and she was looking for something comfortable because she was pregnant.
There is also another great cocktail dress, again in black, with an empire waist and a modified trapeze skirt. It has a keyhole neckline with matching jeweled appliqués on the cuff of each long sleeve and as the top closure for the keyhole. So if you need a great dress at the age of 45 or above, again you have it in this garment.
Chanel never disappoints. You will always get a great show. You will always see the theme of the collection in the set. You will always know that Karl Lagerfeld was there and that his vision is driven by something few will ever understand.
a la prochaine
Debra
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Hail to the Queen of Goth
I must say it one more time. If my style was Goth, Ann Demeulemeester would be my designer of choice. Her collection for fall 2010 is incredible. Some may think it is a bit over the top but for me, that is what makes it stand out.
Since we are talking Goth, of course it is black. For embellishment it has been accented with red and gilded with feathers. Unlike some Goth that is just angry and a bit frightening, this collection just screams style. Also, this collection delivers some outerwear that is classic. You could wear it 10 years from now and people would stop you on the street and ask you where you got that incredible coat.
Some of the collection has real classic appeal. There are a couple of pant suits that I would put my mother in and she would love them. That is amazing because my mother tends to cringe when she sees Goth anywhere. I personally would love the taupe asymmetrical jacket. It is incredibly stunning and paired perfectly with a pair of charcoal grey trousers and black leather gloves.
The first look onto the runway was an incredible pantsuit with a jacket that was asymmetrical, wrapped, belted and simply sumptuous. The second look was also a pantsuit with another asymmetrical jacket but sleeker and more classically tailored. Either one would survive the scrutiny of many fashionistas. And, if you were to talk to my previous staff, I think they are absolutely appropriate for the workplace.
You see, I was never one to bow to the traditional line of thinking. I know that the adage is to dress for the job you want. Well that is exactly what you should do. However, if you have the job, that means you can start dressing for the next one. While I was a CFO the job I started dressing for was Fashionista Supreme.
So for those who hate Goth do me one favor. Check out the Demeulemeester show. Then tell me that you hate Goth. I am betting that you will have a slight change of opinion. She managed to make a convert of me.
a la prochaine
Debra
Since we are talking Goth, of course it is black. For embellishment it has been accented with red and gilded with feathers. Unlike some Goth that is just angry and a bit frightening, this collection just screams style. Also, this collection delivers some outerwear that is classic. You could wear it 10 years from now and people would stop you on the street and ask you where you got that incredible coat.
Some of the collection has real classic appeal. There are a couple of pant suits that I would put my mother in and she would love them. That is amazing because my mother tends to cringe when she sees Goth anywhere. I personally would love the taupe asymmetrical jacket. It is incredibly stunning and paired perfectly with a pair of charcoal grey trousers and black leather gloves.
The first look onto the runway was an incredible pantsuit with a jacket that was asymmetrical, wrapped, belted and simply sumptuous. The second look was also a pantsuit with another asymmetrical jacket but sleeker and more classically tailored. Either one would survive the scrutiny of many fashionistas. And, if you were to talk to my previous staff, I think they are absolutely appropriate for the workplace.
You see, I was never one to bow to the traditional line of thinking. I know that the adage is to dress for the job you want. Well that is exactly what you should do. However, if you have the job, that means you can start dressing for the next one. While I was a CFO the job I started dressing for was Fashionista Supreme.
So for those who hate Goth do me one favor. Check out the Demeulemeester show. Then tell me that you hate Goth. I am betting that you will have a slight change of opinion. She managed to make a convert of me.
a la prochaine
Debra
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
A Bit of a Digression
Come September we are all going to be in for a treat. Actually, the treat will start in late July when fall hits the stores. We have blogged a bit about a couple of shows but now we are going to give those entries and the entries to follow some context. So, grab a glass of Merlot and have a bit of a read.
Well on Wednesday, March 10, 2010 the last show was held in Paris. To us that is the official end of the season. Of course there are still shows taking place but for the most part, the big names have shown their collections. As promised, we are now going to start blogging in earnest about this past fashion season shows. Unlike the past we are going to do some compare and contrast pieces as well as talk about what we saw and what we liked. So hang on for a wonderful stroll through fashion nirvana.
There was a clear winner this year and that winner was the typical woman. Maybe it is the economy or maybe it is the way women are consuming these days. Whatever happened, the majority of designers got on a page that finally recognized who their customers really are.
When you go to these shows you are first mesmerized by the art of the event and second by the beautiful garments that are being paraded in front of you. Somehow, you lose track of the fact that the girls (they are rarely grown women) being paraded in front of you are for the most part under 22, generally at least 5’10” and weigh less than 110 pounds. There are very few people in the audience who could get up on that runway. More than that, there are few people (specifically women) who fit into the size 2 and even 4 garments that are passing by.
In the United States the average woman wears a size 14. In France the average woman wears a size 6 or 8. Maybe, just maybe, the designers have figured out that the 16 and 17 year olds who are on the runway are not the norm, nor is the typical 16 or 17 year old capable of purchasing any of their garments. The consumers are women over 30who are willing to spend $2,500 on a jacket, $4,000 on a coat or as much as $12,000, or more, for a gown. Given that, it is really a smart move to design clothing that a woman with less than a perfect figure can wear and not feel self-conscious.
So how did they pull this off? Here is what they did. The trend is definitely running toward sports wear. The trend is leaning toward classic lines that have real wearing longevity. Also, most of the designers showed at least one absolutely cozy, chunky sweater. Most of them showed at least one piece that had great texture. And, for the record I think that most of them now understand that Donna Karan was right. The best way to dress women is in separates.
There are going to be some wonderful dresses for Fall 2010 but you are going to see pants and skirts and sweaters and jackets in abundance. The pants are more trousers than jean or slim cut. The skirts are in a variety of silhouettes and not just that pencil skirt that the American retail buyers seem to love. The jackets are strong. They do not seem to have the exaggerated, pronounced shoulders you are going to see this spring but they do have great structure and tailoring.
There is a lot of knit wear and more than a few designers seem to have had an equestrian theme in their collections. That theme will also be seen in a few collections this spring. So if any of you have clothing in you closet that is equestrian in nature, keep it. Get a great pair of riding boots and if you can invest in a modified top hat or a derby. A veil is not necessary but the hat will take you a long way.
As we are always advocating, hit the consignment and resale stores. You can find some great items at reasonable prices. If you find a piece that needs some work find a good dry cleaner or tailoring shop that can do repairs and restorations. It would be well worth the investment.
Some of you are now saying that you are up to $400 for that Akris jacket you found at Judy’s Friend’s Sister’s Closet. But guess what? If you went to Saks or Neiman Marcus that same Akris jacket would be about $5,000. You have a great jacket for life and you saved $4,600.
So now that I have identified the winner in this latest round of collections, I will opine on some of the collections that really caught my eye. What else is there to do? We have to wait for all of this to come around again. That would be in the fall. Come September it all starts again in New York and will end in October in Paris. Ain’t it great that there really are things you can depend on?
a la prochaine
Debra
Well on Wednesday, March 10, 2010 the last show was held in Paris. To us that is the official end of the season. Of course there are still shows taking place but for the most part, the big names have shown their collections. As promised, we are now going to start blogging in earnest about this past fashion season shows. Unlike the past we are going to do some compare and contrast pieces as well as talk about what we saw and what we liked. So hang on for a wonderful stroll through fashion nirvana.
There was a clear winner this year and that winner was the typical woman. Maybe it is the economy or maybe it is the way women are consuming these days. Whatever happened, the majority of designers got on a page that finally recognized who their customers really are.
When you go to these shows you are first mesmerized by the art of the event and second by the beautiful garments that are being paraded in front of you. Somehow, you lose track of the fact that the girls (they are rarely grown women) being paraded in front of you are for the most part under 22, generally at least 5’10” and weigh less than 110 pounds. There are very few people in the audience who could get up on that runway. More than that, there are few people (specifically women) who fit into the size 2 and even 4 garments that are passing by.
In the United States the average woman wears a size 14. In France the average woman wears a size 6 or 8. Maybe, just maybe, the designers have figured out that the 16 and 17 year olds who are on the runway are not the norm, nor is the typical 16 or 17 year old capable of purchasing any of their garments. The consumers are women over 30who are willing to spend $2,500 on a jacket, $4,000 on a coat or as much as $12,000, or more, for a gown. Given that, it is really a smart move to design clothing that a woman with less than a perfect figure can wear and not feel self-conscious.
So how did they pull this off? Here is what they did. The trend is definitely running toward sports wear. The trend is leaning toward classic lines that have real wearing longevity. Also, most of the designers showed at least one absolutely cozy, chunky sweater. Most of them showed at least one piece that had great texture. And, for the record I think that most of them now understand that Donna Karan was right. The best way to dress women is in separates.
There are going to be some wonderful dresses for Fall 2010 but you are going to see pants and skirts and sweaters and jackets in abundance. The pants are more trousers than jean or slim cut. The skirts are in a variety of silhouettes and not just that pencil skirt that the American retail buyers seem to love. The jackets are strong. They do not seem to have the exaggerated, pronounced shoulders you are going to see this spring but they do have great structure and tailoring.
There is a lot of knit wear and more than a few designers seem to have had an equestrian theme in their collections. That theme will also be seen in a few collections this spring. So if any of you have clothing in you closet that is equestrian in nature, keep it. Get a great pair of riding boots and if you can invest in a modified top hat or a derby. A veil is not necessary but the hat will take you a long way.
As we are always advocating, hit the consignment and resale stores. You can find some great items at reasonable prices. If you find a piece that needs some work find a good dry cleaner or tailoring shop that can do repairs and restorations. It would be well worth the investment.
Some of you are now saying that you are up to $400 for that Akris jacket you found at Judy’s Friend’s Sister’s Closet. But guess what? If you went to Saks or Neiman Marcus that same Akris jacket would be about $5,000. You have a great jacket for life and you saved $4,600.
So now that I have identified the winner in this latest round of collections, I will opine on some of the collections that really caught my eye. What else is there to do? We have to wait for all of this to come around again. That would be in the fall. Come September it all starts again in New York and will end in October in Paris. Ain’t it great that there really are things you can depend on?
a la prochaine
Debra
You Can Borrow My Mirror !!!!!!!!!!!
It has been a few weeks ....With the beginning of Spring and Fall Runway shows..
how ironic huh !!,but unfortunately I have not been able to view all the new fall fashions ,due to spring visual merchandising.......... But I promise to give some inclusive details on the next entry....
Before I do sign off ,I did want to address the surge of tights !!!!!!!!
About two weeks ago San Francisco had a surge of spring weather for almost a week along with fashion faux pas tight wearing fashionistas !!!!! My search was basically
drawn from the attractions in the Fillmore/Pacific Heights area. Perhaps I should say
I will buy you a mirror vs. borrowing one !!!!There were very few do's vs. dont's.
To come to a quick solution,I would suggest invest in a GOOD pair of footless tights
and about an half hour of your time along with your mirror that is larger than a compact case and take some serious looks of the rearview from all possible angles !!
Address the issue or redress the look .....
A demain !
Janice
how ironic huh !!,but unfortunately I have not been able to view all the new fall fashions ,due to spring visual merchandising.......... But I promise to give some inclusive details on the next entry....
Before I do sign off ,I did want to address the surge of tights !!!!!!!!
About two weeks ago San Francisco had a surge of spring weather for almost a week along with fashion faux pas tight wearing fashionistas !!!!! My search was basically
drawn from the attractions in the Fillmore/Pacific Heights area. Perhaps I should say
I will buy you a mirror vs. borrowing one !!!!There were very few do's vs. dont's.
To come to a quick solution,I would suggest invest in a GOOD pair of footless tights
and about an half hour of your time along with your mirror that is larger than a compact case and take some serious looks of the rearview from all possible angles !!
Address the issue or redress the look .....
A demain !
Janice
Monday, April 5, 2010
The Incredible Mr. Grant
Martin Grant. Those two words are synonymous great clothes. While he is gradually making a name for himself, I also think that he is being discounted by some of the major players. I think he is viewed as not being edgy enough. But here is what he is doing; he is dressing women.
I am really into outerwear that has clean classic lines. It is one of the things I appreciate about Stella McCartney’s line. It also is the reason I am becoming a big fan of Martin Grant. If I spend a couple thousand dollars on a coat I want to be able to wear it for years to come. I do not want to have to toss it out after two seasons because it is dated.
I like clean lines and classic looks for the base of my wardrobe. Those edgy pieces are for enhancing my wardrobe. After all I do need to shock people every now and then. Guess what? Mr. Grant gives you edge also.
Unlike some of the other designers who show in Paris he does small collections. He also opts for presentations as opposed to runway shows. At a presentation you get a much closer look at the garment. You get to get a closer look at the garments and you get to see the details. There aren’t 1,000 people six rows deep. It is an intimate setting and it is the perfect way to showcase this collection.
What a take on the black dress. I have never seen someone bubble a skirt with so little bulk. It is smart, it is simple and it is wearable by women of all ages. Then you stay with black and add some leather and again you have the perfect black dress that is again wearable by women of all ages.
Move on to the wrap, leather car-length coat that is so luscious it makes you wonder what you can sell just to get one and possibly a spare. The asymmetrical menswear blazer is a hit with any skirt or pant. And yes it goes on. Every single piece is incredible. The textures and the treatments are great.
Okay, if there is one issue it is length. They are a bit short for women over 40. However, unless you are 5’10” they will be much longer than they appear. It is also likely that in production, they will be lengthened. But for me I appreciate that Martin Grant just may realize that women 40 and over would also like to dress with a bit of style and edge.
Check it out ladies. I am sure you will see at least some of what I see in this collection.
a la prochaine
Debra
I am really into outerwear that has clean classic lines. It is one of the things I appreciate about Stella McCartney’s line. It also is the reason I am becoming a big fan of Martin Grant. If I spend a couple thousand dollars on a coat I want to be able to wear it for years to come. I do not want to have to toss it out after two seasons because it is dated.
I like clean lines and classic looks for the base of my wardrobe. Those edgy pieces are for enhancing my wardrobe. After all I do need to shock people every now and then. Guess what? Mr. Grant gives you edge also.
Unlike some of the other designers who show in Paris he does small collections. He also opts for presentations as opposed to runway shows. At a presentation you get a much closer look at the garment. You get to get a closer look at the garments and you get to see the details. There aren’t 1,000 people six rows deep. It is an intimate setting and it is the perfect way to showcase this collection.
What a take on the black dress. I have never seen someone bubble a skirt with so little bulk. It is smart, it is simple and it is wearable by women of all ages. Then you stay with black and add some leather and again you have the perfect black dress that is again wearable by women of all ages.
Move on to the wrap, leather car-length coat that is so luscious it makes you wonder what you can sell just to get one and possibly a spare. The asymmetrical menswear blazer is a hit with any skirt or pant. And yes it goes on. Every single piece is incredible. The textures and the treatments are great.
Okay, if there is one issue it is length. They are a bit short for women over 40. However, unless you are 5’10” they will be much longer than they appear. It is also likely that in production, they will be lengthened. But for me I appreciate that Martin Grant just may realize that women 40 and over would also like to dress with a bit of style and edge.
Check it out ladies. I am sure you will see at least some of what I see in this collection.
a la prochaine
Debra
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Stella, Strella, Stella
Breaking the Silence
Now that the hype is gone it is time to settle in and take a really good look at the runway shows for Fall 2010. We are going to bounce back and forth across the Pond as we do this in order to do a bit of compare and contrast. Besides, spring is in the stores and before you know it pre-fall will be rolling in and then the big stuff that was just on the runways. So settle in and enjoy the ride.
I have been looking at the shows and Stella McCartney has hit a home run for me. The entire collection is classic Stella. The lines are clean. The silhouettes are clean. Most importantly, these are clothes that women can wear and feel really good about themselves. From the great pants and sweaters to the suits to the fantastic outerwear there is something for every one.
I know that some think that the British designer’s are boring and that Fashion Week London is not the place but I do not agree. There are some incredible British designers and Stella is a great example.
There is a wonderful grey cardigan that can be worn as a dress or a tunic over a pair of skinny jeans. You can even accessorize it and jewel it up to become a great piece for a casual cocktail party. Given the times and the way clients who purchase at this price point invest, it is great piece.
There is also a wonderful winter white coat that is to die for. Okay you may keep your dry cleaning establishment busy but for me it would be worth the frequent cleaning points. It is classic it is timeless and it is going to be in style twenty years from now.
There is color there is texture and there is versatility. What more could you want from you local clothier? Get them to run to the showroom and place an order.
Okay some of the evening wear was not to my liking, but that is because it would look out of place on a woman my age. However, if I were young and fearless and ready to get out there and show the world how fabulous I was, I’d hit the orange number or maybe even one of those lovely two-toned numbers. I am not sure I would be brave enough to do sheer at any age but if you are and you have some fabulous La Perla lingerie then go for it.
a la prochaine
Debra
Now that the hype is gone it is time to settle in and take a really good look at the runway shows for Fall 2010. We are going to bounce back and forth across the Pond as we do this in order to do a bit of compare and contrast. Besides, spring is in the stores and before you know it pre-fall will be rolling in and then the big stuff that was just on the runways. So settle in and enjoy the ride.
I have been looking at the shows and Stella McCartney has hit a home run for me. The entire collection is classic Stella. The lines are clean. The silhouettes are clean. Most importantly, these are clothes that women can wear and feel really good about themselves. From the great pants and sweaters to the suits to the fantastic outerwear there is something for every one.
I know that some think that the British designer’s are boring and that Fashion Week London is not the place but I do not agree. There are some incredible British designers and Stella is a great example.
There is a wonderful grey cardigan that can be worn as a dress or a tunic over a pair of skinny jeans. You can even accessorize it and jewel it up to become a great piece for a casual cocktail party. Given the times and the way clients who purchase at this price point invest, it is great piece.
There is also a wonderful winter white coat that is to die for. Okay you may keep your dry cleaning establishment busy but for me it would be worth the frequent cleaning points. It is classic it is timeless and it is going to be in style twenty years from now.
There is color there is texture and there is versatility. What more could you want from you local clothier? Get them to run to the showroom and place an order.
Okay some of the evening wear was not to my liking, but that is because it would look out of place on a woman my age. However, if I were young and fearless and ready to get out there and show the world how fabulous I was, I’d hit the orange number or maybe even one of those lovely two-toned numbers. I am not sure I would be brave enough to do sheer at any age but if you are and you have some fabulous La Perla lingerie then go for it.
a la prochaine
Debra
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
I Rest My Case
Several months ago we posted an entry about ugly shoe fads. We talked about Uggs and how they were: one a fashion don't ; and two, should not be worn outside of a ski resort. Well the experts have weighed in and we feel vindicated.
Check out this article and let me know if you now will agree to throw away those Uggs. Not only are the UGLY, they are killing your feet.
Experts debate dangers of wearing popular sheepskin boots - Fashion + Beauty on Shine
http://shine.yahoo.com/channel.beauty/experts-debate-dangers-of-popular-sheepskin-boots-1164424
Check out this article and let me know if you now will agree to throw away those Uggs. Not only are the UGLY, they are killing your feet.
Experts debate dangers of wearing popular sheepskin boots - Fashion + Beauty on Shine
http://shine.yahoo.com/channel.beauty/experts-debate-dangers-of-popular-sheepskin-boots-1164424
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
The House of McQueen
Before I start blogging in earnest about Fashion Season (NYC, London, Milan & Paris), I want to highlight a couple of collections. The most moving for me was that of Alexander McQueen. Not because it was the best collection of the season but because it was his last.
Sixteen looks in all. Not a large collection but I wonder what remained in the workroom as a result of his untimely death. He died the week before London so he had time to finish several more pieces.
How do I know that? As the daughter of a dressmaker, I know the manic state you get to when you are working on something you love. You don't stop to eat; you don't get much sleep and you work until your hands are getting numb. I've been there. I have sat for hours beading the bodice of a gown. I have spent hours on endless finishing details. I have sewn and ripped and re-sewn many a garment with my mother.
It was classic Alexander McQueen. The cuts, the embellishments, the finishing touches were wonderful. I do not envy the person who is going to take over. There are some really big shoes to fill. They are extremely big shoes. I am not sure who is big enough or gutsy enough to actually step in and not feel totally exposed.
So, to the House of McQueen, choose well. Make sure that Mr. McQueen's replacement is someone who will stay true to the vision of this incredible designer. Make sure that they have that same ability to take us on a journey we were not sure we wanted to make. Find someone who will take us to the fashion edge and then hold our hand so that we drop the fear of being so far out on that limb. Get someone who will show us beauty and anger, outrageous costumes and elegant gowns. Make sure they understand the art of embellishment and the importance of the finishing touches.
When the fall shows roll around I hope that we get to see exactly what Alexander McQueen would have wanted us to see. What we see as his vision for Fall 2010 is brilliant. Let us see how Alexander McQueen would have had us celebrate Spring 2011.
a la prochaine
Debra
Sixteen looks in all. Not a large collection but I wonder what remained in the workroom as a result of his untimely death. He died the week before London so he had time to finish several more pieces.
How do I know that? As the daughter of a dressmaker, I know the manic state you get to when you are working on something you love. You don't stop to eat; you don't get much sleep and you work until your hands are getting numb. I've been there. I have sat for hours beading the bodice of a gown. I have spent hours on endless finishing details. I have sewn and ripped and re-sewn many a garment with my mother.
It was classic Alexander McQueen. The cuts, the embellishments, the finishing touches were wonderful. I do not envy the person who is going to take over. There are some really big shoes to fill. They are extremely big shoes. I am not sure who is big enough or gutsy enough to actually step in and not feel totally exposed.
So, to the House of McQueen, choose well. Make sure that Mr. McQueen's replacement is someone who will stay true to the vision of this incredible designer. Make sure that they have that same ability to take us on a journey we were not sure we wanted to make. Find someone who will take us to the fashion edge and then hold our hand so that we drop the fear of being so far out on that limb. Get someone who will show us beauty and anger, outrageous costumes and elegant gowns. Make sure they understand the art of embellishment and the importance of the finishing touches.
When the fall shows roll around I hope that we get to see exactly what Alexander McQueen would have wanted us to see. What we see as his vision for Fall 2010 is brilliant. Let us see how Alexander McQueen would have had us celebrate Spring 2011.
a la prochaine
Debra
Alexander McQueen - A swan song of sorts
I'm not sure anything should be written about the late Alexander McQueen's final collection. Instead, I hope his work will define itself in his absence.
Alexander McQueen Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear
Kirsten
Alexander McQueen Fall 2010 Ready-to-Wear
Kirsten
Paris Fashion Week - Isabel Marant
The time has come to retire Isabel Marant’s epithet as “the best kept secret.” The secret is out, and has been for some time—her accessories line debuted on Net-a-Porter.com on February 24, and the Web site will expand to sell her clothing collection online this spring.
Marant showed her Spring 2010 collection in Paris on Friday, March 5. The reviews were surprisingly mixed. I say surprisingly because Marant’s previous collections received a tremendous response and boutiques could not keep pieces in stock.
Her latest show featured cropped, sometimes cuffed, skinny jeans that hit about mid-calf and appeared in a variety of colors and prints. There were even some pairs in sequins that reminded me a little of the pants Spanish matadors wear.
Marant paired her fitted bottoms with slightly oversized, moderately androgynous blouses and sweaters—a very sweet pairing of the feminine leg (Marant seems to love sending lots of leg down her runways) with a more masculine borrowed-from-the-boyfriend topper.
Marant continued to moderate the femininity of her collection with “harder” pieces that seemed a little more rocker chic. Although I would argue that Marant has always designed with an element of rock ‘n’ roll, this time it was more glam/metal than Woodstock.
The collection offered a darker palette, with lots of black and dark metallics. Of course Marant paired some of these heavier colored pieces with a white version of her capri pants and threw in a light-wash denim jacket, both choices helped to create a nice balance.
Leather jackets and structured shoulders—though much softer than the severe, exaggerated jackets of recent—conveyed a sophistication to the rocker feel and made it the collection feel more graceful and less grunge.
Many reviews of the show focused on the fifties vibe of the crop leg, high ponytails and cat-eye makeup. One misguided writer unsuccessfully tried to compare many of the looks to the musical “Grease.” I don’t see just the fifties in this collection—I see a concept of how women exude both strength and vulnerability in a way that creates a truly feminine sexuality.
I saw the elements of the 50s girl, but I also saw 80s glam-rock in the volume of the metallic mini skirts and the undeniable panache of Studio 54 in my favorite look: a patterned silk shirtdress wrapped and cinched with a wide red leather obi—an accessory I suddenly must have—and finished with a mid-length fur.
Reviewers seemed unfairly critical of this collection, calling it a “departure.” I have to pose the question then, to these observers of fashion: Do you actually want to see the same thing come down the runway each season?
I do not.
Perhaps the mixed feelings about the latest from Marant are a result of the tremendous love she received for her past collections.
Marant made her strongest impact to date on the fashion community with her Spring 2009 Ready to Wear collection that launched “prairie chic,” a sort of neo-bohemian look that required suede slouchy boots wrapped with chains to accompany even the sweetest of delicate lace mini-frocks.
Of course that collection was much deeper than the patchwork tunics, airy, gauzy flower print and long, long legs. Marant sent quite a bit of black down the runway too. The collection seemed to transition smoothly from the romantic to a harder nightlife look through the use of black macramé and dark florals, ultimately ending with short and metallic… and those amazing boots of course.
I would argue that Marant has enjoyed such wonderful success in France, and more recently across the globe, because of a remarkable ability to design looks and pieces that allow a woman to transition from season to season.
In this collection we can see this specific talent at work. She maintains the skinny leg silhouette, but alters the length—an easy adjustment. She softens the oversized, hard shoulders, but maintains structure, creating a look that is inherently more “wearable.” The loose men’s dress shirts can be paired with everything, and made more flattering with the addition of her obi belts.
Marant has always excelled with accessories—those suede boots and then the studded suede booties of her previous collections generated waitlists miles long and inspired mass-produced knockoffs that went quickly. I think it was a wise move for her to leave the boots and simplify with a feminine pointy-toed kitten pump—with a bow. Somehow this choice allowed the clothes to speak louder and definitely made the legs (always the legs!) appear longer—something any girl should get behind.
Every single look makes me believe that I can dress just like this. And that impression has always been consistent in every one of Marant’s collections.
Kirsten
Marant showed her Spring 2010 collection in Paris on Friday, March 5. The reviews were surprisingly mixed. I say surprisingly because Marant’s previous collections received a tremendous response and boutiques could not keep pieces in stock.
Her latest show featured cropped, sometimes cuffed, skinny jeans that hit about mid-calf and appeared in a variety of colors and prints. There were even some pairs in sequins that reminded me a little of the pants Spanish matadors wear.
Marant paired her fitted bottoms with slightly oversized, moderately androgynous blouses and sweaters—a very sweet pairing of the feminine leg (Marant seems to love sending lots of leg down her runways) with a more masculine borrowed-from-the-boyfriend topper.
Marant continued to moderate the femininity of her collection with “harder” pieces that seemed a little more rocker chic. Although I would argue that Marant has always designed with an element of rock ‘n’ roll, this time it was more glam/metal than Woodstock.
The collection offered a darker palette, with lots of black and dark metallics. Of course Marant paired some of these heavier colored pieces with a white version of her capri pants and threw in a light-wash denim jacket, both choices helped to create a nice balance.
Leather jackets and structured shoulders—though much softer than the severe, exaggerated jackets of recent—conveyed a sophistication to the rocker feel and made it the collection feel more graceful and less grunge.
Many reviews of the show focused on the fifties vibe of the crop leg, high ponytails and cat-eye makeup. One misguided writer unsuccessfully tried to compare many of the looks to the musical “Grease.” I don’t see just the fifties in this collection—I see a concept of how women exude both strength and vulnerability in a way that creates a truly feminine sexuality.
I saw the elements of the 50s girl, but I also saw 80s glam-rock in the volume of the metallic mini skirts and the undeniable panache of Studio 54 in my favorite look: a patterned silk shirtdress wrapped and cinched with a wide red leather obi—an accessory I suddenly must have—and finished with a mid-length fur.
Reviewers seemed unfairly critical of this collection, calling it a “departure.” I have to pose the question then, to these observers of fashion: Do you actually want to see the same thing come down the runway each season?
I do not.
Perhaps the mixed feelings about the latest from Marant are a result of the tremendous love she received for her past collections.
Marant made her strongest impact to date on the fashion community with her Spring 2009 Ready to Wear collection that launched “prairie chic,” a sort of neo-bohemian look that required suede slouchy boots wrapped with chains to accompany even the sweetest of delicate lace mini-frocks.
Of course that collection was much deeper than the patchwork tunics, airy, gauzy flower print and long, long legs. Marant sent quite a bit of black down the runway too. The collection seemed to transition smoothly from the romantic to a harder nightlife look through the use of black macramé and dark florals, ultimately ending with short and metallic… and those amazing boots of course.
I would argue that Marant has enjoyed such wonderful success in France, and more recently across the globe, because of a remarkable ability to design looks and pieces that allow a woman to transition from season to season.
In this collection we can see this specific talent at work. She maintains the skinny leg silhouette, but alters the length—an easy adjustment. She softens the oversized, hard shoulders, but maintains structure, creating a look that is inherently more “wearable.” The loose men’s dress shirts can be paired with everything, and made more flattering with the addition of her obi belts.
Marant has always excelled with accessories—those suede boots and then the studded suede booties of her previous collections generated waitlists miles long and inspired mass-produced knockoffs that went quickly. I think it was a wise move for her to leave the boots and simplify with a feminine pointy-toed kitten pump—with a bow. Somehow this choice allowed the clothes to speak louder and definitely made the legs (always the legs!) appear longer—something any girl should get behind.
Every single look makes me believe that I can dress just like this. And that impression has always been consistent in every one of Marant’s collections.
Kirsten
Oscar highs... and lows
Well this is a dish day for all fashionistas. Who hit it and who missed is all over the news. The Academy Awards is always the most talked about red carpet and the celebrities who graced that carpet Sunday night did not disappoint.
My favorite gown was the one worn my Rachel McAdams. It isn’t that I am such a fan of Elie Saab (because I am a total fan) it was the fact that there was a softness in both the silhouette and the color. That swirling palette was really wonderful to see on the red carpet. It was like an announcement that spring is around the corner.
I also liked the Reem Acra worn by Nicole Ritchie. It was simple; it was elegant and it was a great choice for her. It matched her personality and lifestyle.
Likewise the Chris March gown worn by Meryl Streep was great. I love it when a woman is comfortable in her skin. Meryl Streep always chooses a garment that she is comfortable wearing. If I were a woman of a certain age and getting married, this would be my choice.
For the past few red carpets I have not been a fan of the choices Queen Latifah made. However I must say that the Badgley Mischka was a great choice. It gave her body a great line with the jeweled shoulder that continued to the asymmetrical empire waist that continued to the swirl in the back. The color was perfect for her skin tone and all anyone could say is well done.
Of course there were the “what were you thinking” choices. One of them was the Dries Van Noten worn by Maggie Gyllenhaal. There was something about the fit that wasn’t there for me. Also, unlike the Elie Saab the colors were vibrant and that somehow did not translate well.
Some of the other not to my liking were the Jenny Packham worn by Miley Cyrus. It wasn’t the right fit for her. I love Jenny Packham. She designs incredible gowns and has a bridal collection that is phenomenal. But, Miley is neither old enough or polished enough to pull off that gown. It may have been a bit too small in the bodice but the real problem for me was that it wasn’t age appropriate.
Poor Charlize Theron may have been wearing Dior but it was an unfortunate Dior. I don’t think that anyone was actually looking at her face. They were distracted by the flowers strategically placed oh each breast.
I am also more convinced than ever that Tina Fey needs a new stylist. That Michal Kors was not her dress. The silhouette was wrong, the color and print were wrong, the whole thing was just wrong.
And I hate to say it but Jennifer Lopez could have chosen better. I realize that she is an extremely curvaceous woman but that was just too much fabric.
In general it was a great fashion night. For those of you who are looking for a dress for an occasion pay close attention to the things that matter. Those things are fit, silhouette and color. Never do a dress that is so close to your skin tone you can’t see where you end and the dress begins. Never simply buy the dress and take it home. Call in the alterations and fit specialist so that the dress really fits you. And finally pay attention to the silhouette. Make sure it is flattering to you and that it is fresh and pretty.
Okay my co-writers will weigh in also. You will see that we don’t have the same taste and that is what makes this so much fun. We all have our likes and dislikes and that, my friends, is what fashion is all about.
a la prochaine
Debra
My favorite gown was the one worn my Rachel McAdams. It isn’t that I am such a fan of Elie Saab (because I am a total fan) it was the fact that there was a softness in both the silhouette and the color. That swirling palette was really wonderful to see on the red carpet. It was like an announcement that spring is around the corner.
I also liked the Reem Acra worn by Nicole Ritchie. It was simple; it was elegant and it was a great choice for her. It matched her personality and lifestyle.
Likewise the Chris March gown worn by Meryl Streep was great. I love it when a woman is comfortable in her skin. Meryl Streep always chooses a garment that she is comfortable wearing. If I were a woman of a certain age and getting married, this would be my choice.
For the past few red carpets I have not been a fan of the choices Queen Latifah made. However I must say that the Badgley Mischka was a great choice. It gave her body a great line with the jeweled shoulder that continued to the asymmetrical empire waist that continued to the swirl in the back. The color was perfect for her skin tone and all anyone could say is well done.
Of course there were the “what were you thinking” choices. One of them was the Dries Van Noten worn by Maggie Gyllenhaal. There was something about the fit that wasn’t there for me. Also, unlike the Elie Saab the colors were vibrant and that somehow did not translate well.
Some of the other not to my liking were the Jenny Packham worn by Miley Cyrus. It wasn’t the right fit for her. I love Jenny Packham. She designs incredible gowns and has a bridal collection that is phenomenal. But, Miley is neither old enough or polished enough to pull off that gown. It may have been a bit too small in the bodice but the real problem for me was that it wasn’t age appropriate.
Poor Charlize Theron may have been wearing Dior but it was an unfortunate Dior. I don’t think that anyone was actually looking at her face. They were distracted by the flowers strategically placed oh each breast.
I am also more convinced than ever that Tina Fey needs a new stylist. That Michal Kors was not her dress. The silhouette was wrong, the color and print were wrong, the whole thing was just wrong.
And I hate to say it but Jennifer Lopez could have chosen better. I realize that she is an extremely curvaceous woman but that was just too much fabric.
In general it was a great fashion night. For those of you who are looking for a dress for an occasion pay close attention to the things that matter. Those things are fit, silhouette and color. Never do a dress that is so close to your skin tone you can’t see where you end and the dress begins. Never simply buy the dress and take it home. Call in the alterations and fit specialist so that the dress really fits you. And finally pay attention to the silhouette. Make sure it is flattering to you and that it is fresh and pretty.
Okay my co-writers will weigh in also. You will see that we don’t have the same taste and that is what makes this so much fun. We all have our likes and dislikes and that, my friends, is what fashion is all about.
a la prochaine
Debra
Fashion News - Filson goes international
Who knew Filson, a Seattle outdoors company founded in 1897 that emphasizes durability (above style), has a cult following in Japan? I certainly didn't, and I'm a Seattle native who takes pride in my hometown businesses.
Filson opened its third location and first international outpost in Osaka Japan, in the heart of the Horie fashion district. Filson also has a Portland store, opened in 1998, but recently closed their Denver location.
The opening of the Osaka location seems like a smart move for Filson--taking advantage of Japanese interest in classic American fashion.
For more on this, check out the Seattle Times' article.
I always think it's fascinating to discover how unique cultural fashion movements become. It's easy to assume a certain amount of homogeny in fashion as major retailers pump out immense numbers of "must-have" items that are snapped up by the masses and quickly become ubiquitous pieces of the average wardrobe.
The wave of fashion bloggers posting shots of their own ensembles on a daily basis plays an increasingly influential role in the movement to reinvent and rediscover style. There is an army of young amateur stylists who are propelling the vintage and DIY movements even further and perhaps unknowingly fighting against the monotony of mass retailer "fashion."
It's refreshing to be reminded that culturally we can still be recognizable in our sense of style and so too can our domestic fashion industries--there still is such a thing as "American Style." It's great to hear that Filson, a niche company, is successful somewhere else than the very damp, very nature-oriented Pacific Northwest. It reminds me that specific concepts for clothing (in Filson's case, traditional functionality and durability) will continue to set a company apart and can bring them success. In comparison, it should be no surprise that the GAP has struggled to build a brick-and-mortar market outside the United States... just something to think about.
Kirsten
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Hooray for Hollywood
Hooray for Hollywood ..................
In the past, I have always watched the Oscars and enjoyed most of the presentations and the Red Carpet. Howbeit there was that stretch of years where it became tooooooooo political and lengthy... I admit not even wanting to view--even though invitations for great appetizers and fanfare were offered.
Last evening I was actually armed with pen and pad to give my overall view of the event to be posted on the blog. I decided to give my feedback on the Great Gowns of the evening. Many sites on the internet elect "the best and the worst,” I just feel that there is a lot of "bad-mouthing" going on these days. I am staying on the positive end of things, if not for anything else but to continue this day with the serenity with which it began!!!!!!!!!!
I had a few favorite gowns of the night, but what I actually saw was that the gowns I liked were worn by the right person. I thought the match up of body type, color, age, stature and personality were presented well.
Cameron Diaz's silvery, beaded gown was a red carpet classic with a sophistication to match her soft hairstyle.
Everyone loved Sandra Bullock's gown and commented how it was the perfect gown for the perfect winner. It was interesting to also take a look from a variety of photos to see the antique beadwork and shading effects from the lighting.
The draping and rouching of Mo'Nique's gown was flattering. The shade of blue accented her skin tone as well as her perfectly coiffed hairstyle set off with gardenias. Hattie McDaniel would have been proud!
The muted bluish gray color of Hellen Mirren's dress gave her that authentic air of grandeur and definitely let the women of her generation realize the air of grace that still emanates.
In the same vain, Meryl Streep looked relaxed and confident in her ivory gown with a plunging neckline. Even though she grimaced about her Jimmy Choo's she held her poise.
Queen Latifah chose the perfect shade of pink rose and the perfect contour of gown to highlight every effect of her curvaceous stature. Her flawless skin and presentation of jewels to accent the night were right on the money!!!
Speaking of skintone and gowns... Demi Moore—give me that gown !!!! Maybe just two shades darker for moi.
Penelope Cruz and Donna Karan's dusty red gown were a match … Thought about getting a piece of red velvet cake today.
And last but not least... Armani Prive could not have been prouder to have Jennifer Lopez don her swagg with last night's gown.
Again there are looks for one and all... most importantly: find the one for you, feel comfortable and put your best foot forward… even if it is in a Jimmy Choo for an hour or two.
A demain,
Janice
(Photos courtesy of t.f.s.)
In the past, I have always watched the Oscars and enjoyed most of the presentations and the Red Carpet. Howbeit there was that stretch of years where it became tooooooooo political and lengthy... I admit not even wanting to view--even though invitations for great appetizers and fanfare were offered.
Last evening I was actually armed with pen and pad to give my overall view of the event to be posted on the blog. I decided to give my feedback on the Great Gowns of the evening. Many sites on the internet elect "the best and the worst,” I just feel that there is a lot of "bad-mouthing" going on these days. I am staying on the positive end of things, if not for anything else but to continue this day with the serenity with which it began!!!!!!!!!!
I had a few favorite gowns of the night, but what I actually saw was that the gowns I liked were worn by the right person. I thought the match up of body type, color, age, stature and personality were presented well.
Cameron Diaz's silvery, beaded gown was a red carpet classic with a sophistication to match her soft hairstyle.
Everyone loved Sandra Bullock's gown and commented how it was the perfect gown for the perfect winner. It was interesting to also take a look from a variety of photos to see the antique beadwork and shading effects from the lighting.
The draping and rouching of Mo'Nique's gown was flattering. The shade of blue accented her skin tone as well as her perfectly coiffed hairstyle set off with gardenias. Hattie McDaniel would have been proud!
The muted bluish gray color of Hellen Mirren's dress gave her that authentic air of grandeur and definitely let the women of her generation realize the air of grace that still emanates.
In the same vain, Meryl Streep looked relaxed and confident in her ivory gown with a plunging neckline. Even though she grimaced about her Jimmy Choo's she held her poise.
Queen Latifah chose the perfect shade of pink rose and the perfect contour of gown to highlight every effect of her curvaceous stature. Her flawless skin and presentation of jewels to accent the night were right on the money!!!
Speaking of skintone and gowns... Demi Moore—give me that gown !!!! Maybe just two shades darker for moi.
Penelope Cruz and Donna Karan's dusty red gown were a match … Thought about getting a piece of red velvet cake today.
And last but not least... Armani Prive could not have been prouder to have Jennifer Lopez don her swagg with last night's gown.
Again there are looks for one and all... most importantly: find the one for you, feel comfortable and put your best foot forward… even if it is in a Jimmy Choo for an hour or two.
A demain,
Janice
(Photos courtesy of t.f.s.)
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