November 2, 2010

"Simply Be" Mad!!

Dear Reader,

I was just about to relax for the evening and pull the warm blanket of November magazines to my weary eyes for some fashionable reading, when I stumbled upon a catalog I received in the mail today, called "Simply Be."  The cover was enough to remind me vaguely of a old Delia's catalog cover I would receive as a young teen, and so at first, I ignored this tome.  But after I reached for it, and fondled through its colorful and zesty pages, I took note of a few things: 1. The clothes, pages and outlines were not flattering for anyone at all. Combining empire waists with long peasant sleeves, buttons, and paisley prints, topped off with a long, ruffle sweater and a "chunky necklace", this catalog was off to a bad and unimpressive start. 2. The tops and dresses in the catalog were undefined and shapeless, sitting on the women like a sack sits on a potato.  3.  The models were rather curvaceous.  That's when I realized this was a plus-sized magazine. After briefly rationalizing the reasons why I was getting this magazine and performing the womanly act of narcissistic self-assessment and die a mortifying little death inside with guilty understanding followed by belligerent self-denial, I became enraged.  NOT only because I was a plus-sized person, NOT only because I was a woman, BUT BECAUSE I was a fashion designer!  I was furious over these prints, patterns, and lines of the clothing! The printed ruffle dresses that add zero waist definition, day dresses that look as if wardrobe came straight from Rebecca Donaldson's closest on Full House, and prices that were beyond absurd shocked and appalled me.  The biggest insult was to women, who read this trash catalog and assume this is the standard for dressing!  That this sack is what you are supposed to wear, but pair it with skinny jeans to give the illusion you are more slim than you really are.


If that was in fact the case, the sweaters would lose the ruffles, the jeans would lose the back-button flap pockets, and even the jewelry would lose the offensive "chunky" tone. 




After a further look-through, I find that almost every single item in this catalog has something hanging off of it, whether drawstrings, ruffles, gathers, layers, bat-sleeves or attachments.  And those items without attachments?  Well, I'll just let this picture speak for itself:

I am aghast. This company, "Simply Be", being a "plus" sized company, shouldn't be focusing on trying to mask the natural curves and form of the woman body with boxy outlines, heavy layers, and clown-like ruffles.  And I am not prejudice with this particular consumer group: these clothes wouldn't look good on ANY woman, no matter her size.  The curves of the woman should be highlighted, but done in the right ways, using belts and bold colors with neutrals, and balancing the patterns, rather than combining them completely in one dress (see example below).  My dear readers, fashion must not suffer from the uninformed, nor should the plus-sized suffer from this fashion.


I would love to hear any feedback about this issue from you, the reader and consumer, and please share what plus-size retailer you most appreciate.  I have a fondness myself for Chico's, which combines the elements I described above within their wardrobe and styling. 

Stay Fashionable!

xx-Christine

October 26, 2010

You are now entering...The Fashion Zone

"Welcome to a world where there are no rules, mind and imagination are completely uninhibited; the fifth element is: fashion."

Darlings! I've missed you! I've been thinking of fashion ideas, to keep myself and you amused! I have actually come up with an impromptu and small concept of starting a non-profit organization to provide clothes for the homeless in a very unique way.  I'm working on it, we shall see what happens! I've also been very busy acquiring excellent classic pieces for my wardrobe, such as a black wool skirt for those cold winter days, some basic graphic tees, and of course, the all purpose, all fabulous, all amazing SPERRY'S! Yes, I finally did manage to get some, and I must say, they are quite amazing; comfort beyond comfort, and quite elite.

Speaking of the "elite", the newest trend showing up around town seems to be the "minimalist" trend.  This is one that I scorned when first viewed at the 2010 NY Fashion Week Collection by BCBG Max Azria.  However, I have had a somewhat change of heart; the idea of a clean palette, a new beginning emerges.  The solid colors translate strength, unity, and wholeness.  This kind of holistic approach to wearing fashion has me feeling the trend's vibe, and the best part is I can use the pieces I already have.  But, if you are seeking an excuse for some new purchases, go ahead and explore some of the minimalist fashions over at Kenneth Cole, Calvin Klein, and, of course, BCBG Max Azria

And here's something that I have been wanting to post for a while now: you see these shoes?  Well, I have seen these, and ones like them, all over the retail world lately, and for prices anywhere between $500-$1000.  I know that most probably don't have that kind of cash to spend, but there is an easy, cheap and crafty solution to this dilemma: make them yourself! It's very easy! All you need is a pair of tweezers, Swarovski Hot Fix Rhinestones (from mjtrim.com) an iron, and some help from an old pair you want to jazz up or a brand spanking new pair you want to class up, the choice (and budget) is yours!







Pics from BlueFly.com
1. First, begin by concentrating on the placement of the stones.

2, Apply Swarovski Rhinestones by using the tweezers to carefully lay the flat side of the gem against the hot iron for approximately three seconds (this is done to warm the glue up) then place the gem in the position you want.

3. Repeat and wear! Style them however you'd like and wear with pride! You just saved yourself about $500.

P.S. This idea can also be used for you LBD or LBP (Little Black Purse).  Just don't wear all your bejeweled pieces together, Barbie's anniversary was last year.

Fashionably Yours,
xx-Christine

September 25, 2010

Lights! Camera! Fashion Week!

Hello darlings! I've finally gotten the time to write to you all about Fashion Week's smashing shows and amazing displays of art.  Rather than discuss and dissect every single designer, I will go through the one's I most appreciated! I've only managed to get about half-way done (and the designer list just keep growing) so check back for more of Fashion Week reviews (and the other part of the alphabet) later! All pictures, quotes and links can be found at style.com.
I absolutely adored the bold colors of Alexandre Hecrchovitch, whose head-to-toe color-coordinated accessorizing was NOT a faux-pas.  I loved his collection!  It was inspiring and something that could be a chic Spring, or it could be too over-the-top (though Lady Gaga or Gwen Stefani could sport the look well).






Altuzarra had interesting cut-outs and patterns, bearing resemblance to a Picasso painting. 




Badgley Mischka had a very feminine feel, with similar 70's inspired looks and die-cut trims and wide pants.  Cher will go crazy for it.

There was only one look I liked from Betsey Johnson, and that's because it made me think of cupcakes :)




BCBG Max Azria was a classic Spring Collection: nudes, sheers and lace. Nothing particularly special, unfortunately, though the author of the article seemed to praise the minimalism, I find that it just shows lack of creativity to produce a more interesting line. The two peices below were the only ones that weren't entirely boring. (If you are really interested in some "minimalism" that doesn't look like a large white t-shirt dress, try viewing the collection of Costello Tagliapietra.)


To me, however, I felt I could get a better quality garment with more versatility, more style, and more interest from Behnaz Sarafpour. Glancing through their slideshow, I could immediately identify pieces I'd rather have, accessorize with, and style rather than BCBG. There is a definite feeling of fresh chicness, a classic and trendy vibe, all at once. It was SoHo meets Beverly Hills.


As far as Christian Siriano, I have definitely fallen in love with the exotic looks he always brings to the table,  I have always appreciated the designer for the work he did on Project Runway and his obvious sewing talent and imagination.  I do also love the looks, and find them wearable and fabulous, especially his white and tan combos. The colors are so classic spring/resort, but with his twist, become new again.  I have a fashion crush.







Diesel Black Gold was a rustic, caveman look, a tribal edge this spring. The leather and suede combos were very striking with well defined edges, and the palette of browns and dark colors is unusual for spring.  I did love the combination of the hard leather with soft ruffles; that contrast will be a crowd-pleaser. And the embossed, destroyed leather? Be still, my heart!




DKNY: the show transition was practically flawless. I saw each and every piece transform before my eyes into the next; it was pure magic, experienced only by the viewer themselves. Take a look. The patterns turned to ruffles turned to suits turned to skirts! It was a stunning show, and I must say, I am a big fan of this bright Superman Blue this spring. Absolutely Gorge!

Eli Tahari's khaki palette and metallic skirts had me going crazy! I love the cognac color for a pop in a belt, it's been a spring 2011 must-have so far! There was something of Grace Kelly in the air, with the glasses, the black wide-leg pants, sunglasses and hoodie combo was something straight out of High Society. So if you favor modeling a Monacan Princess, do invest in Eli Tahari next season.



Elise Overland had some interesting asymmetrical looks, but I had a feeling I would be spotting some celebrities in these little black numbers sometime soon, the lace and ruffles provide a "modest extreme" for some.

Fashion East. I don't know where to begin. The subtle classic, such as a blazer or pants, were paired with extreme touches of ruffles, full-length skirts with tutu's; it was a sight to behold for sure.




Two words: Fashion. Fringe. Oh my. Finally!
 There were two reasons I fell in love with this show: 1. FF founder Colin McDowell began a contest to see what up and coming or undiscovered talented designer was capable of representing themselves in a Fashion Show, and gaining exposure. 2. He chose three finalists and showed each collection, rather than just one. I was beyond excited for each of the three collections, each stunning and exciting in it's own personal way. The first collection by Alice Palmer showed the world that you really can use something over and over and over again and still be able to make it different.  The same pleated fabric in different style and colors and patterns. It was magnificent. The second collection by Jade Kang was structured, vibrant, and feminine. HE is what fashion week should have been across the board.  (I have a new fashion-crush). The final (and "winner" of the contest) went to Corrie Nielson's collection of "Georgian Satires". The pieces were a mockery of French and English aristocrats. Big hair, structured and corseted garments. [To me] It was a snooze compared to the previous designers, not because I can't appreciate the hard work that went into the construction, but because I have seen it somewhere, sometime before by another designer (Vivienne Westwood, anyone? I know copying is the nicest form of flattery, but sheesh!).  Oh well, still a very noteworthy and commendable show by Mr. Colin McDowell, a designer who is not all about himself.











 Francesco Scognamiglio was something I've seen before too, think Viktor & Rolf from a few seasons ago; the sleeves, the ruffles, the sheers, the colors even, were very V&R. But what is old is always new again, so that would be the case with FS. There were some noteworthy pieces, but don't get too excited, it will only show again from some other designer in a few seasons from now.







Gucci had an amazing show! Something to look at each and every time, a spectacle of the eyes, a feast for the mind, an itch in my wallet to spend on these gorgeous pieces! It seems spring will bring a combination of feathered-textures, metal hardware, and sequins galore! A bit of a dominatrix look for the spring could pose interesting. Somehow, I also see influence from Japan in the designs, anyone else? (You must look at this show yourself darlings, I won't spoil it with pictures!)

Bottega Veneta was what BCBG Max Azria could have been (or has been before?). The lines were tailored, yet drapey, flowing effortlessly from peice to piece.






Halston was magnificent, everytime I went to the next picture and the next, I found something better.  A tropical paradise of tangerine and lemon hues and water-based prints, the collection from Halston this spring is runway, yet wearbale.  The draped shoulder/skirt look took me an island where I was forced to construct my clothing with little to no sewing. 










Anna Sui had a fringe-tastic assortment of Western-Inspired wear, nothing but country patterns, denim, crocheted lace, and boots, a magical arrangement inspired by the movie Days of Heaven. I have not seen this movie, but this spring line is definitely heavenly, and I wholely embrace it. I especially loved the sparkling wheat-field backdrop, and the smiling faces on the girls.  They looked apple-pie American and delicious enough to sink my hungry fingers on. 









Douglas Hannant was a delightful surprise, combinging structured organzas and crinolins with chantilly lace and pastels, a combination and palette the designer proclaims was similiar to "a bag of jelly beans dumped on a white tablecloth." I see cupcakes more, but potato, potato.


 





Holly Fulton was a surprise of cultures; there was something romantic about the collection.  It started as an African (or Egyptian?) Paradise of prints, tribal neclaces and earrings, and feathers featured everywhere.  Then it transformed into something Klimt-esque with a Russian/German influence, finally settling on Art-Deco like clouds, a dreamy mist of something now gone. 






And a few honorable mentions: (so far, my favorite and most exciting has been Jeremy Scott)

Basso & Brooke has an interesting representation of patterns and colors. D&G had a retro display of gingham checks and floral prints for the new season. Burberry Prorsum was all about neon accent colors.
Diane Von Furstenburg had some very sailing-savy looks, a polished-patterned trend I could see catching on with a wide variety of age groups.And there was something of McQueen in the air at the Jeremy Scott show, perhaps even more Andy Warhol, a statement of the times and places we are in right now.




Come back for more soon, darlings, I promise! Ciao for now!

xx-Christine
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