More Fashion, Please.

New blog

2010-02-08T21:48:00.001-08:00

As much as I've enjoyed More Fashion Please, I've moved on.
My new blog is http://www.schoolforstyle.blogspot.com/

Commes Barbie!

2009-12-07T20:35:00.000-08:00

Is it bad that I kind of want her dress for myself?

Shameless self promotion

2009-10-30T21:15:00.001-07:00

Check out my article on The Fashion Spot:
http://www.thefashionspot.com/featured-stories/news/22450-the-reality-of-being-a-fashion-intern

As If I Need to Fall In Love With Another Foreign Magazine

2009-10-08T19:20:00.000-07:00

From July 2009's Australian Vogue.

Sheer beauty. From the concept to the colours (I love shift from black and white as one looks further down the image), to her hair.

(Photo from foto decadent)

Can we just discuss...

2009-10-08T17:34:00.000-07:00

The misuse of the term "couture." Seriously, this is my biggest pet peeve ever. Couture does not mean "relating to fashion" or "a pretty dress". You cannot refer to something as being so couture, and while some ready to wear garments are very expensive, they are not couture.

Please do not refer to something as couture unless it is custom made with painstaking attention to detail. I just think that it's really insulting to all of the artistry and effort that goes into creating couture pieces.

This, while beautiful, is not couture.

(Elie Saab Ready-To-Wear, Spring 2010, photo from style.com)

This, my dears, is couture.

(Christian Lacroix Couture, Fall 2009, photo from style.com)

I just read an interview on an otherwise fantastic fashion website wherein the interviewer misused the word couture several times, as in, "What's it like attending all of the most couture fashion shows, like Margiela?"

Please friends, let's correct this.

The 5 Best and 5 Worst Celebrity Fashion Lines

2009-10-04T14:08:00.000-07:00

The fashion world has been up in arms since it was announced that Lindsay Lohan has joined Ungaro as the line's "artistic advisor". While expecting the perma-legginged starlet to play any kind of direct role at a historic french fashion house is alarming, celebrities dabbling in design is nothing new (Lohan herself launched 6126 last year).

While some celebrity lines have been utter disasters, others have managed to make a name for themselves in design. Here are my favorite celebrity labels, and the ones that give me nightmares.

The Five Best (Yes, Two of These are Helmed by the Olsen Twins)

1. Elizabeth and James (by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen)

(photo from net-a-porter.com)

Named after the Olsens' younger siblings, Elizabeth and James provides young, fun fashion that is on trend but not gimmicky. The collection is full of slim-fitting pants, boyfriend blazers, and 90's inspired pieces, that are wearable but apt to turn heads. As a bonus, one gets the sense that the Olsens are among the most directly involved in the design process of the legions of celebrity "designers".

2. William Rast (by Justin Timberlake)

(photo from style.com)

No one expected Justin Timberlake's label to be this good. Face it, the crooner is known more for his hit songs and famous girlfriends than any sort of sartorial sensability. Yet the denim-saturated William Rast line contains lots of cool over-sized tees and skinny jeans, for an effortlessly cool look.

3. Victoria Beckham (by Victoria Beckham)

(photo from style.com)

Victoria Beckham is unfortunately a bit of a laughing stock in the fashion community. From her spray tan to her augmented chest, she is a bit hard to take seriously. However, while her tastes may differ from those of fashion darlings like Erin Wasson or Anna Wintour, her line is full of red-carpet ready dresses that toy with shape and proportion, and are a perfect match for the sky-high heels Beckham wears 24/7.

4. L.A.M.B. (by Gwen Stefani)

(photo from style.com)

After several successful seasons, Stefani has proven herself as a designer. Seamlessly blending trends with Stefani's personal style, L.A.M.B. is chic with rocker sensibilities.

5. The Row (by Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen)

(photo from mkashley.com)

Still known primarily for the boho-chic style they rocked at the beginning of the decade, one might not expect many basics in a line designed by the Olsen twins. But simplicity is the watchword when it comes to The Row, which aims to provide basics at their best. Full of well-cut blazers and little black dresses, The Row is more focused on providing quality than following trends.

The Five Worst:

1. Lauren Conrad Collection (by Lauren Conrad)

(photo from amazon.com)

Until recently, Lauren Conrad starred on The Hills, a show about her life working in the fashion industry. One can see the irony in this upon seeing her (no longer in production) fashion line. Jersey dresses similar in quality to American Apparel's but sold for hundreds of dollars more do not a fashion icon make. It's not that Lauren Conrad Collection was terrible, but it lacked personality. As a member of Team LC (as opposed to Team Heidi or Team Kristen), I think that she could do better.

2. Heidiwood (by Heidi Montag)

(photo from mtv.com)

Another Hills star, another terrible label. While Montag dissed her co-star for setting such a high price point for her clothes, her own line looked cheap, in all senses of the word. Equal parts skanky and Forever 21 clearance rack, Montag's line was tragic. Happily, she has since stuck to what she does best: reality TV and staged paparazzi shots.

3. Abbey Dawn (by Avril Lavigne)

(photo from kohls.com)

Lavigne described her clothing line to USA Today as "[a] lot of hot pinks and blacks and stars and purple and zebra. Basically, everything I wear." I don't think that I have to elaborate.

4. Paris Hilton (by Paris Hilton)

(photo from parishiltonsite.net)

Let's face it. It's hardly surprising that the bulk of this collection consisted of T-shirts with Paris's face on them (which she proudly wore, of course). What was surprising were the numerous ugly items that even Hilton wouldn't be caught dead in, including a cheap looking turtleneck sweater dress and what can best be described as a sleeveless mom-blouse with an attached tie.

5. Ashlee Simpson for Wet Seal (by Ashlee Simpson)

(photo from blog.buffalostate.edu)

Combining the worst of Abbey Dawn and Paris Hilton, Simpson's collection featured T-shirts with her face on them and items bearing a neon animal print motif.

Note: Miley and Max is only excluded from this list because:

a) I respect Max Azria and hope that one day he will come to regret this trainwreck of a line.

and

b) It is so terribly mundane that I tend to forget it exists

Party Photo Land: Buggy

2009-09-09T09:32:00.000-07:00

Time to check in with what the hipsters are wearing:

From The Cobra Snake: I'm pretty sure that this is the dress I've been obsessing over every time I've gone into Zara recently. I love the early 90's vibe of the florals. I also love the carpet bag style purse in the bottom left corner.
From Last Night's Party:

Scarfs tied in this turban style always seem to make the wearer look effortlessly chic. Not that this girl needs much help in that department. The clean lines of her dress (shirt?) and the stack of gold bangles are a refreshing departure from the sloppy layers look so often seen on party photo websites.

I really just picked this picture because I love the bug ring.

Cool Link: A Kishi Quiz

2009-08-22T22:29:00.000-07:00

I admittedly have a slight obsession with Baby-Sitters Club character Claudia Kishi's style. She was just so cool and creative. So I was thrilled when I checked out Mental Floss today, and discovered their Kishi Creation or Fashionista Flop quiz. Each question describes an outfit and the reader must identify whether it's a Kishi original or something worn by a celebrity. I got 88%. Et toi?

I love this tee.

2009-06-22T22:51:00.002-07:00

That is all.

Nautical Nonsense

2009-06-21T20:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, every fashion magazine in the world recommends the nautical look come summer, but it doesn't have to be cheesy. Try unexpected combos like an anchor on a neon dress or trading in boat shoes for white and blue peep toe heels.

Stand-Out Show: Chanel Resort 2010

2009-05-20T20:39:00.000-07:00

One could be forgiven if "blah" is the word they first associate with resort collections. After all, they often leave viewers decidedly underwhelmed. But leave it to La Lagerfeld to spice things up a bit. Chanel's Resort 2010 collection hit it out of the park (to borrow an expression from some of my future-sportswriter journalism classmates).

I love, love, love the lace overlay here. And the combination of the vintage-inspired dress and the futuristic boots is awesome. Incidently, doesn't the combination of her red hair and the pretty dress remind you a little of Rose in Titanic?

This is like, The Matrix meets the Hamptons.

The jacket is classically Chanel, but the military inspired buttons modernize it in the best of ways.

I generally don't take literal inspiration from the runways, but I have a pair of red tights and have been struggling when it comes to how to wear them. Paired with a classic black dress, they seem a bit too punky, but anything else is a bit busy. However, they are perfection with a vintagey patterned dress in a neutral colour.

This is just the most adorable outfit ever.

This is how we know The Hills is staged

2009-05-18T22:05:00.000-07:00

If the stilted conversations, abundant editing, and fake boyfriends didn't tip you off...

There is no way the person above works in the fashion industry.

(Picture of Stephanie Pratt from The Daily Mail)

Party Photo Land: Peaches, Prepsters, and Pretty Patterns

2009-04-29T20:59:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I've checked in on our hipster friends in Party Photo Land (ie. The Cobra Snake, Skullset, and the like), and I must say, I'm a little disappointed. It seems that Cory Kennedy has reverted to baggy tops and leggings, while the rest of the hipsteratti is sticking to their plaid shirts and Wayfarers.

However, there's still some innovation out there. Here are some awesome looks (first two pictures from The Cobra Snake, last photo from Skullset).

If you look closely, you'll notice that the people in the pattern on Peaches' dress are really Troll dolls. I love it!

How do I love this outfit? Let me count thy ways:

1) The yellow shorts. Bold but classic

2) The way the shirt is buttoned up to the neck. It totally changes the whole shape of the top.

3)The navy blues on top of each other.

4)The old school preppy vibe it oozes.

5) The word oozes.

How awesome are the the glasses? I love the juxtaposition of the clunky frames with the flowy top (dress?). And check out the awesome pattern on the aforementioned unidentified garment!

Inspiration Board: Go Get 'em, Tiger

2009-04-29T20:43:00.001-07:00

A youthful alternative to animal print.

Spring/Summer 2009 Cheap Picks: The Tops

2009-04-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

For those with Gucci tastes on a Gap budget, the cutest tops for cheap.

Under $20:

Geo Shapes Woven Tunic, $15.80, Forever 21:

Alright, so this one sits on the line between shirt and dress, but it is absolutely fantastic.

H81 Floral Cropped Top, $16.90, Forever 21: A touch of the 90's for those sick of grunge. This would go equally well with frayed denim shorts or high-waisted black pants.

Under $30:

Unisex Big Tank, $26, American Apparel

This comes in about a billion different colours and is ridiculously versatile. Buy a handful of cheap bandeaus and the outfit possibilities are endless.

Kissing Zebra Tee, $28.50, Delias How cute would this be with a high-waisted black skirt? I love the quirkiness of the zebras and the symmetry of the stipes.

Debate: Gladiator Sandals

2009-04-26T23:59:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that we were all in love with our gladiators last summer. They were so refreshingly different from the flip flops and slingbacks of years past. Sure, they were a hassle to do up, but they were comfortable and cutting edge.

But what happens this year? We've had a while to get used to gladiator sandals and it's no longer love at first sight. Sure they look great with S/S 09's hippy dresses but are they too trendy to last another season? Or have they become more of a classic? Does it matter if they're knee-high or super simple?

(Sandals by Sigerson Morrison, Photo from Net-a-Porter)

How do you feel? Are you a fan?

(Sandals by Giuseppe Zanotti, Photo from Net-a-Porter)

Inspiration Board: Pretty Petals

2009-04-07T20:45:00.000-07:00

If this were a cheesy teen magazine and not a super-cool blog of awesomeness, I would probably title this post "Flower Power." The trick to mastering spring's florals is to toughen them up a bit by pairing them with more masculine elements, like a gray T-shirt or Doc Martens.

Unlikely Style Icon: Betty Suarez

2009-03-26T14:40:00.000-07:00

On TV’s Ugly Betty, the main character, Betty Suarez, is constantly mocked by her co-workers at Mode (a fictional fashion magazine) for her lack of style. Ironically, Betty is arguably the most fashion forward of the show’s characters. She whimsically pairs pieces together with a disregard for conventional style rules or clashing patterns. Betty takes risks, and yet there is something adorably traditional about her vintage-inspired dresses and bow-bedecked blouses.

Inspiration Board:

Embracing Your Inner Betty:
(Is it just me, or does that heading totally sound like the title of a self-help book written by Cher Horowitz ?)

1) Dare to mix patterns
Admittedly, it can be hard for a pattern-mixing virgin to wear florals and argyle together. Yet Betty mixes bold, brash patterns together and it looks amazing. Try pairing different patterns together and shock yourself with how great you look!

2) Add a bit of geek-chic to your life
While Betty is not a stereotypical geek (an abundance of cute purses and a lack of pocket protectors save her from Screech Powers territory), her look is definitely geek-influenced. Try stealing a few signature Betty looks, like a sweater vest over a puffy-sleeved blouse, or a pair of huge (possibly non-prescription) glasses.

3) Resurrect those forgotten souvenirs
In the show’s first episode, Betty is waiting for her job interview at Mode and chats with another candidate , a bitchy model-type in an expensive cream coloured poncho. When Betty gets the job, at a loss for something fashionable to wear to work, she decides to wear a bright red poncho with “Guadalahara” embroidered across it, a souvenir from a vacation that her parents took.
While I’m not advising you to try to bring ponchos back, try putting all of those “Hawaii” or “Camp Pinelake” T-shirts to use. Yes, they looked dorky on your eleven year old self when you wore them with floral leggings, but with the neckline slightly altered (all you need is scissors!) and a cute mini skirt, they could become great.

4) Buy some statement-making dresses
Though Betty wears dresses in nearly every episode, it is rare that you would find her in a navy shift, or a simple T-shirt dress. Her dresses are all bold, whether polka-dotted and retro or sweet and floral. On their own, they are an instant outfit, while, when accessorized with equally bold jewellery, they become part of an attention-getting ensemble.

5) Be nice to your feet.
While the other employees at Mode clomp around in sky-high heels, Betty favours cute flats, or comfortable platform Mary Janes. You don’t need to give up stilettos forever, but make sure that you give your feet a break every now and then. A night out in flats can be fun, especially at the end of the evening when your friends are complaining about their heels and you’re still dancing the night away.

Congrats, Marc!

2009-03-19T20:44:00.001-07:00

http://www.wwd.com/fashion-news/marc-jacobs-engaged-2074502?module=today

futuristic love

2009-03-18T20:24:00.000-07:00

I wish that I had access to a copy of Vogue Korea.
The editorials look so, so amazing!

(Picture from foto decadent.)

Gossip Girl Fashion: Oh, S. No More Scarves for You. (S. 2 E.18)

2009-03-18T14:55:00.000-07:00

First of all, I am SO VERY HAPPY that Gossip Girl is back.

However, I take issue with this particular ensemble:
My roommate and I spent like 10 minutes debating whether this is a scarf weirdly wrapped around her arms or a sweater that matches the scarf, before deciding on the latter. Either way, not a good look. Now, I know that Serena is busy seducing older men and stressing out about the fact that her mom loves her boyfriend's father and hanging out with the incredibly dull Vanessa, but really? This is the best outfit she could come up with?

Blair only looks like she's bitching at Rachel. She really just caught sight of Serena's outfit.

Blair's outfit, however, is flawless as per usual. The bow and girly blouse are classic B, while the lace and the layers are a nod to current trends. As if we'd expect anything less.

Okay, now see?

See how lovely Serena can look when she just keeps it simple? This is much, much better.

XOXO and all that jazz.

(Photos from gossipgirlonline.net)

Decoding Dress Codes

2009-03-17T15:59:00.000-07:00

I don't know how glam your lives are, but the parties I attend rarely specify dress codes on the invitation (or even have invitations other than someone running through the halls of my dorm yelling "PARTYYYYY!``). They're just not very common these days, especially for events hosted by people my age.

However, this can lead to confusion when one recieves an invitation with an actual dress code listed (a wedding, for instance). What is white tie? How casual is too casual? Here, dear readers, is your guide. Don't say I never do anything for you.

White Tie:

What it Means:
Look at you, going to a white tie affair! The most formal of dress codes, white tie calls for a ball gown. This is your chance to go for all out glamour.

What You Should Wear:
Wear a vintage gown. They're unique and have stood the test of time. Don't forget your pearls!

Black Tie:

What it Means: Black tie can be tricky. Commonly seen on wedding invitations, black tie used to mean a long evening gown. However, a short cocktail dress is now considered just as appropriate. Think of prom in terms of formality (but hopefully not style). If the invitation says "black tie optional" err on the more casual side.

What You Should Wear: Embrace your chance to wear a long dress, and go for something that makes you feel like a princess but is still relatively simple. Pair with heels and some pretty but basic jewellery.

Cocktail:

What it Means:
You're supposed to wear, you guessed it, a cocktail dress! Anything above the mid-calf is generally considered cocktail length.

What You Should Wear:
This is a semi-formal occasion, so you don't need to look like you're heading to the Oscars, but you should look like you put some effort in! This is your chance to have fun, so pair a cute dress in a current shape with high heels and some bold jewellery.

Business Casual:

What it Means:
While you are unlikely to see this dress code on an invitation, you might be advised to wear business casual clothes to a job interview (depending on the company) or an academic awards ceremony. Whatever the case, business casual generally calls for a collared shirt and a skirt or pants made in material other than denim.

What You Should Wear:
Follow the rules with sweet flats, a polo, and a khaki skirt. Now is not the time to try anything too experimental. However, you should let your personality show through in the details (for instance, the cut of the skirt, bows on the shoes, and bright tights below).

CFDA Award Nominees Announced

2009-03-16T20:36:00.000-07:00

They include Marc Jacobs, Vera Wang, and Jason Wu.

Check out the list here.

I love vintage...

2009-03-15T20:56:00.001-07:00

I went vintage shopping this weekend.
And now I am incredibly happy.

Fashion Militia

2009-03-14T20:39:00.000-07:00

Choose vintage-inspired pieces to wear classic military style with panache.

Party Photo Land: Headdresses and Hair Bows

2009-03-12T15:03:00.000-07:00

Time for the first installment in forever of party photo land!

Love, love, love the rhinestone bow. The perfect combination of formality and fun especially when paired with a messy updo.

Doesn't she just look like an 80's it girl? I love the way she accessorized a simple outfit with bangles and a giant ring.

This is a seriously fashionable group of friends! I especially love the black pants and the girl on the far right's cut-out tee.

And last but not least:

Mischa Barton looking lovely while wearing a random headdress.

(First three photos from The Cobra Snake, last one from Skullset.)

Drop-Crotch Pants

2009-03-11T17:20:00.000-07:00

The drop-crotch pant can definitely be an intimidating style to wear at first. After all, worn incorrectly, they can make you look like a boy in the 1990's. However, they can look amazing (see Chloe Spring/Summer 2009 for proof!)

The Style Classicist:

Get a pair of drop-crotch shorts that don't bunch at the bottom for a less dramatic effect. Wear them with a simple top and some girly but flat shoes to downplay the masculinity of the drop-crotch style.

The Trendspotter:

Pair a pair of black drop-crotch pants with simple yet complimentary pieces like a drapey top, ballet flats, and Annie Hall sunglasses.

The Fashion Risk-Taker:

Take the shenanigans a bit further by rocking some crazy patterned harem pants. Wearing it with a sequined top in complimentary colours guarantees a unique yet fashion forward look.

Stand Out Show: Jean-Charles de Castelbajac

2009-03-10T19:24:00.000-07:00

As much as I can appreciate a lovely Balenciaga gown, or a YSL smoking suit, sometimes fashion just needs to be a little crazy!

Honestly, I'm getting a bit sick of designers responding to the recession by making practical (read: boring), wearable (read: black) clothes, or by taking it literally and doing the whole 1930's thing. I think that in these tough economic times our fashion should be a means of escapism, full of fun and frivolity.

Fun was definitely the operative word in Jean-Charles de Castelbajac's Fall/Winter 2009 collection.

Check it out here:
http://content.coutorture.com/2911164

(My stupid internet connection won't let me upload the photos directly!)

Rock on, JCDC. Rock on.

Stand Out Show: Commes Des Garcons

2009-03-09T17:17:00.000-07:00

As promised, more of this beauty: CDG's show was absolutely amazing. I love the layering of the same colour but in different fabrics. That is definitely an idea I might steal.

She looks like a little china doll. The shape of the coat/dress/cape kind of makes me realize why the poncho trend happened.

This is how Rei Kawakubo does structure! It's sharp yet flowy.

I adore this dress! It looks like one of those rare amazing vintage finds that people dream of.

Pictures from style.com

Oh, Commes Des Garcons

2009-03-08T19:31:00.001-07:00

I love this:

More later.

Spring/Summer 2009 Wishlist: Tops

2009-03-07T09:00:00.001-08:00

As much as I love them, you can't wear dresses everyday. Seperates have their place, too. Here are all the shirts I can't afford but majorly dig.

Floral Silk Tank Top, Rag & Bone, $290

I love the tough/girly vibe this top gives off. The combination of the floral print and floaty fabric and the black trim is awesome. For the sake of my budget, I kind of hope that Forever 21 knocks this off!

Silk Striped Tank Top, D&G Dolce & Gabbana, $345

I love how sailor-chic this top is. And I am a sucker for bows.

Neon Lights Neck-Tie Blouse, Marc by Marc Jacobs $358

My weakness for bows strikes again! I love the plaid and the pastels.

Silk Pocket Tank, Alexander Wang, $235

While I would never endorse spending $300 on a tank top, if I had the means to do so I would definitely opt for one of Alexander Wang's. This particular one comes in a bunch of gorgeous colours, ranging from pastel violet to grey. Its cut is really cool but the silk dresses it up a little.

All photos from Net-a-porter.

Spring/Summer 2009 Cheap Picks: The Dresses

2009-03-05T17:32:00.000-08:00

For those craving Armani on an American Eagle budget, here are spring and summer 2009's Cheap Picks for dresses.

Under $50:

T-shirt Scarf Dress, Gap, $34.99
How cute is this? I'm normally opposed to one-piece garments that try to create a layered look (read: those annoying sweaters with shirt collars attached) but you'd never guess that this scarf was attached to the dress. And how would you ever find a scarf to coordinate so well with a normal T-shirt dress? (Also: I have a newfound T-shirt dress addiction. I wear my black American Apparel one with everything.)

Tiered Dress, American Eagle, $39.50

I'll admit it, I was a little skeptical about perusing American Eagle's website for dresses. While the store is one of my favorites for stocking up on basics like polos and jeans, I assumed that their dresses would be of the sporty cotton tank dress variety. Who would have guessed that it would have gorgeous cocktail dresses like these? I love it. Very modern-day flapper.

Flirty Striped Dress, American Eagle, $44.50American Eagle strikes again! Although this dress gives off a totally different vibe than the last one, it's absolutely adorable.

Under $100

Colourblock Ponte Dress, Silence & Noise, Urban Outfitters, $58

As much as I love spring dressing, one thing about it that bothers me is that it's not very structured. By the time the end of summer rolls around, you just get sick of wearing floaty, shapeless things all the time (and I love me some floaty, shapeless things). This dress is the perfect combination of structure and fun.

Colourblock Ruffle Dress, Urban Outfitters, $88
Okay, so the top half's a blatant rip-off of that Marc Jacobs dress, but I really like this. The vintage-inspired bottom totally works with it.

Sparrows Tank Dress, MINKPINK, Urban Outfitters, $88

Seriously, this is the perfect dress for lazy, "I have class at 8 am" dressing. Throw it on with some gladiator sandals, toss on a cardigan, and you look completely put-together.

Pictures from store websites.

Spring/Summer 2009 Wishlist: Shorts and Skirts

2009-03-05T13:44:00.000-08:00

Oh, the things I would buy with an unlimited budget.

Paper-Bag Waist Shorts, Vanessa Bruno, $370

I love these. They totally remind me of the best parts of Chloe's Spring/Summer 2009 collection. I love all of the details: the waistline, the bow, the subtle pleats. Oh my gosh, I never thought that I would find myself liking pleated shorts.

Ethel Gingham Skirt, Luella, $715

I love this skirt so much! With a navy blue tanktop, it would be divine.

Silk Bubble Skirt, D&G Dolce & Gabanna, $295

This skirt could totally be dressed down with a T-shirt and flats or dressed up with a tank top, jewelry, and heels.

High Waisted Twill Skirt, Chloe, $865

This skirt came to my attention after I used it in like 500 different Polyvores. It's deceptively simple-looking but extremely well-cut.

Crepe Harem Pants, Alexander McQueen, $1085

As much as harem pants get dissed, I kind of want a pair. But I promise I would not wear them with high-heeled, pointy toed, knee high boots, as many do. That would be disgusting.

Mystery Solved

2009-03-04T08:51:00.001-08:00

The dress from the last post is DKNY. Thanks, Couture Carrie for the tip!

Picture from net-a-porter.com

People You've Never Heard of Wore the Same Dress

2009-03-03T20:49:00.001-08:00

Why is this at all important, you ask?

Because, my little cynics, they wore the same dress TO THE SAME EVENT.

Seriously, according to The Daily Mail, singer Haley Westrena and beauty queen/"gladiator" Amy "Siren" Guy showed up to the March 2nd "Marley and Me" British premiere in the same brightly coloured cocktail dress.

Has that ever happened before? The most similar incident I can think of is when Reese Witherspoon wore that dress to the Golden Globes that Kirsten Dunst had worn to the same event years before.

above: Guy; below:Westrena

How awesome would it have been if they'd acknowledged it and posed for a photo together? It would be good PR in a "I can take a joke" kind of way and they'd get a lot more press.

Who do you think wore it best? (My vote's for Haley. She kept her accessories simple and that works with this dress)

And does anyone know who designed it?

(Photos from dailymail.co.uk)

Spring/Summer 2009 Wishlist: Dresses

2009-03-03T14:10:00.000-08:00

This season's wishlist is going to be split up into segments, because there are just too many gorgeous pieces out there for me to limit myself to a few items!

Whether soft and flowy or architechtural, spring's dresses are gorgeous!

Broderie Anglaise Dress, Moschino Cheap & Chic, $1370

How cute would this be for a summer garden party? Because I would totally throw a garden party as a chance to wear this dress. I think that you would need a nude slip underneath it, though. I can't totally tell how see-through it is.

Embroidered Bustier, Marchesa, $3960

How beautiful is this? The colour palette, the beading, the flowy skirt. I'm in love.

Double-Layered Dress, Chloe, $2150

Winsome yet sophisticated. The perfect look for anyone working a semi-corporate job this summer.

Embroidered Minidress, Balmain, $12 200

No, that's not a typo. This dress does indeed cost as much as the rent on a downtown condo for a year. But, it is extremely pretty. I love the beading, the sleeves, and the caftan-esque neckline.

All dresses available at net-a-porter.com
Photos from Net-a-porter.

I feel old...

2009-03-02T20:51:00.000-08:00

Thought Tavi was young? Ava of La Fille, at literally half my age, is already crafting DIY Ann Demeulemeester boots and naming posts after Bob Dylan songs.

At the age of nine, I though multi-coloured braces and Gap Kids logo tees were the height of chic.

No fair?

in shock

2009-02-28T21:43:00.000-08:00

So I'm watching the first season of Beauty and the Geek online (I do super-cool things when I am procrastinating).

Aside from the horror of the beauties (one of whom is an "aspiring fashion expert") and their ensembles, there was also this utterance, out of the mouth of one of the geeks:

"I've never heard of Vogue before."

My brain.

Cannot.

Register.

Stealing from the Stereotypes: Part 2

2009-02-26T21:53:00.000-08:00

Let's take some more inspiration from the ridiculous stereotypes of teen movies!

The Cheerleader: In real life, cheerleaders are talented athletes who practice in sweats. In teen movies, however, they are bitchy girls who saunter down the hallway in their uniforms.

Keep It: Rock your own "uniform" by wearing a tank top and flippy skirt in classic school colour combos like blue and gold or black and red. Try some sneakers with it (just stick to pretty high tops, not actual cross trainers).

Leave It: Ditch the pom poms and try some cute bangles instead.

The Band Geek: Who knew geeks could be so rad?

Keep It: Channel your inner band kid with a sweet marching band inspired jacket, like this one by Phillip Lim.

Leave It: Ditch the other trappings of geekiness for cool boots and skinny jeans.

The Punk:

Keep It: Pair some ripped jeans a la Erin Wasson with a bright coloured tee and some embellished Doc Martens.

Leave It: Don't rock the rubber bracelets, extraneous piercings, or any item of clothing with the word "punk" on it.

The Jock:

Keep It: Wear a vintage letterman jacket with shoes in a coordinating colour.

Leave It: Trade in the track pants for a cute denim skirt, and the sneakers for vintage inspired heels.

Stand Out Show: Missoni

2009-02-26T19:53:00.000-08:00

You know that cool, hippy girl who just looks great effortlessly? The girl who piles on the bizarre layers and doesn't look homeless?

It seems that Missoni's muse for Fall/Winter 09/10 was that girl.

The Italian line took its signature knitwear in a new direction, creating interesting pieces like circle scarves and scarf-cardigan hybrids.

And the styling? Fantastic!

Seriously, I dare you to look at the mix of colours and textures and not feel inspired. Muted tones in the same colour family but in all different kinds of fabric seemed to be the name of the game.

This last look is my FAVOURITE. Nudes and neutrals are deceptive. You think they'd be easy to pair together, when really even neon shades are easier to mix. A barrage of bright colours can sometimes be thrown together at random and you just look like you're going for a "Look at me!" hipster kind of look.

But have you ever tried pairing camel and cream?

It's done flawlessly in the look below.

I also love the overlay on the dress. I've always been mad about vintage dresses with a layer of lace on top, so this look is right up my alley.

Oh Missoni.

You done good.

miss fifty

2009-02-23T17:21:00.000-08:00

Give your look a playful kick with a dose of 1950's style.

Stand Out Show: Topshop Unique

2009-02-22T12:56:00.001-08:00

Topshop Unique's show was the perfect combination of your cool babysitter from the 90's, a homeless person and Zenon . That's right. You children of today have your singing high schoolers and your camps of rock. My generation had a teenybopper who lived on a space shuttle.

This makes me understand why the hardcore hipster kids are so into their neon. And I love the scarf and/or cowl neck.
The Mary-Kate Olsen circa 2005 silhouette, updated.

Giant knitwear and shiny leggings are the perfect pair.

Stand Out Show of the Day: 3.1 Phillip Lim

2009-02-19T19:25:00.001-08:00

Oh, Phillip Lim. You always bring so much joy to my life. And then sadness. Because I definitely cannot afford any of your beautiful items.

However, thank you for knowing that pretty cuts + neutrals = beauty

In other news, my friend totally has the haircut that all the others do and was planning on making it her signature style. But she'll probably have to share it with have the world thanks to the role it plays in this awesome show.

She looks like a human puffball, but oddly makes me want to look like one too.
You know when you see a dress, and it's super beautiful, and it makes you wish that you had somewhere excessively fabulous to go so you could wear said dress? This dress is not one of those. This dress is so incredibly fabulous that you would buy it even though you had nowhere to go and where it to like, run errands just to make the world envious.
This is amazing proof that you can mix patterns by keeping them in the same colour palette.

Sometimes simplicity can work. (When it has a great cut like this, that is)

This dress could totally work for a cocktail party or for school.

Standout Show of the Day: Marc by Marc Jacobs

2009-02-18T16:20:00.000-08:00

As cool as the eighties vibe at Marc Jacobs' self-titled show a few days ago was, it was really the little sister collection that caught my attention this time around. It has a cool hippy/grunge feel, sort of like a WASPy girl in the nineties who runs away with a lumberjack. If that makes any sense whatsoever. I LOVE the dress above. It is gorgeous and flattering. The boots and socks are also sweet.

Only Marc (or Marc's stylist) would think to pair a boho dress with stripey tights.

The dress is insanely cool, the Hermes-y scarf is a HUGE improvement on the played-out keffiyah trend, the tights rock, the hat is pure Molly Ringwald in Pretty in Pink, and the boots and socks are awesome.

I want this coat. Seriously.

This will be my uniform next fall.

(photos from style.com)

Barbie's 50th Anniversary Show = Amazing

2009-02-16T21:04:00.000-08:00

Alright, so Erin Fetherston's collection is great (despite a few less than rave reviews), as is Nicole Miller's, but by far the most fun group of ensembles displayed thus far were those at the FANTASTIC show celebrating Barbie's 50th anniversary. Leave it to Barbie to ignore the drab, boring neutrals of the recession and rock outrageous looks.

My favorite looks below:

1. The Classic Swimsuit:

Seriously, would Barbie have had the cultural impact that she has today were it not for that first iconic look? The shine and pretty cover up modernise the look.

2. The Vintagey Skirt and Blazer:

I love how put-together this look is. Blair Waldorf, anyone?

3. The Gown:
This reminds me of the Butterfly Princess Barbie I had when I was five. She was awesome. Unfortunately, however, my Barbie did not have fantastic see-through gloves to pair with her ensemble.

4. The Ken Tee:

I want this T-shirt. Enough said.

5. The Showgirl Look:

For a slightly wilder take on the black and white striped swimsuit. Props to anyone who can pull this look off.

clashin' fashion

2009-02-09T18:00:00.000-08:00

Yes, the title's cheesy! But, this Valentine's day, deviate from the norm by layering clashing patterns in pink, purple, and red.

Stealing from the Stereotypes

2009-02-09T08:33:00.000-08:00

You know how in movies about high school the school is always divided into distinct cliques that all dress exactly alike? My school wasn't like that, and I hope that yours wasn't either. However, taking inspiration from these high school stereotypes can yield some great outfits. After all, what is fashion without dressing up?

The Stereotype: Goth
Now trust me, I am like, the anti-goth. My nails are currently neon-pink, I like smiles and sunshine and kittens, and I am a generally upbeat person. However, black is always fashionable. Maybe those morose kids are doing something right.

Steal: Definitely try some lacy accents, like the gorgeous boots above. Anything black and flowy is also good in moderation. Have fun playing with textures, which keeping to one colour lets you do.

Leave: Goth makeup. Okay, you can do smokey eyes, but drawing a giant teardrop on your face (a la some of the goth kids at my high school) is definitely overkill. Also ditch anything scary. We're going for edgy romanticism, not horror movie.

The Stereotype: Hippie

I was a hippie for Halloween, and was way too excited to wear pieces of my costume in everyday life!

Steal: Channel your inner Anna Sui with laid-back peasant dresses. Put your gladiator sandals to good use and layer on the bangles.

Leave: Hippie headbands. As much as I love them, the trend is getting kind of stale. Also do tie-dye at your own risk. I've seen it worn well, and I've seen it done terribly.

The Stereotype: Mean Girl

In real life, well-liked people tend to dress at least fairly well. However, in movie world, where cliques dominate, the popular girl can be spotted by her mini-skirt, heels, matchy-matchyness, and overuse of the colour pink. A play on this stereotype can yield a fun ensemble.

Steal: The mean girl's girliness. Ruffles, pink, and hearts can be fun, especially when piled on at once in an almost ironic manner.

Leave: The logos. Carla Santini had her Dior tee in Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen, and Regina George of Mean Girls had her Louis Vuitton bag. However, a logoed piece with a mini and heels makes you look like a trophy wife.

The Stereotype: The Nerd
A fan of math, clashing patterns, and retainers, the nerd is perhaps the most interesting creature in the land of high school stereotypes.

Steal: The clashing patterns, over-sized button downs, and big glasses. (Note: I thought that the shoes above were geometric enough for a nerd!)

Leave: Most nerds in movies have horrible hair. Don't get horrible hair.

Let me know if you like this feature and there might be a part two in the future!

Statement Necklaces

2009-02-05T17:37:00.000-08:00

Statement necklaces were all over the Spring 09 runways. But how to translate them for real life?

The Style Classicist: Pick a dramatic statement necklace and pair with a little black dress, allowing the necklace to shine.

The Trend Spotter: Try a boho-chic look by picking a multi-strand necklace and wearing it with a simple slip dress, unbuttoned cardigan, classic Frye boots and bangles.

The Fashion Risk-Taker: Try something a little unexpected, like the necklace below, which reminds me a bit of the necklace equivalent of Luella's famous tiered skirts. Wear it with an outfit that matches its overall mood (like the one below, with its fun and whimsical shape).

paper-bag princess

2009-02-03T20:06:00.000-08:00

Combine grungy basics with overtly girly accents for an utterly regal effect.

Unlikely Style Icon: Barbie

2009-01-31T19:45:00.000-08:00

Barbie, (full name Barbara Millicent Roberts), has always represented different things to different people. To some, she is a silly childhood toy. To others, a representation of Western culture’s warped body image. But to me, Barbie has always been synonymous with glamour. As a child I dreamed of being an adult, not so that I could live alone or stay up as late as I wanted, but so I could dress like Barbie.
And it seems that my dreams might soon become a reality, with the fashion world quickly catching on to Barbie’s style. Not only was everyone’s favourite 11 ½ ‘ superstar the subject of a recent M.A.C. line, but is the inspiration behind Jeremy Scott’s next collection, and will even have her own show at fashion week.

Barbie Inspiration Board:

Embracing Your Inner Barbie:
1. Wear Pink:
Though pink is perhaps the most popular colour among the 2-10 year old girl set, we tend to wear less of it as we get older. While I’m not advocating that you buy a fuchsia Juicy tracksuit (PLEASE, PLEASE don’t buy a fuchsia Juicy tracksuit!), take a cue from Barbie and integrate some pink into your wardrobe. As she shows us, there is a pink item out there for everyone, be it a beautiful pale pink gown or a pair of bold magenta leggings.

(Top: on the Chloe Spring 09 runway, Below: from LF Markey's Spring 09 collection (at Fashion Fringe), both photos from style.com)

2. Be Overdressed: The first Barbie doll wore a striped one-piece swimsuit, paired with white, cat-eye sunglasses, high heels, and hoop earrings. Her hair was perfectly coiffed, and her eyeliner bold. Red lipstick topped the look off. The first impression that she gave the world was one of a glamour girl. (Seriously, how often do you wear red lipstick and heels to the beach?). Busy Morning Barbie wore a peach and white striped day dress with a matching broad-brimmed hat, heels, and woven purse. This is quite different than most people’s real-life errand running outfit of jeans, T-shirt, and ballet flats!

Try wearing some big sunglasses the next time you go pick up groceries, or a faux-pearl necklace to class. Overdressing just a bit will make you feel like an old-Hollywood star.

3. Keep it Classy: While those Bratz skanks wear their nano-skirts and belly tops, Barbie remains ladylike. Yes, she has been known to rock the occasional cropped tee or mini skirt, but she is more likely to accessorize it with delicate earrings or a cute cardigan than platform knee-high boots. Remember to pair your more risqué ensembles with these lady-like touches in order to give off the right vibe.

4. Find Your Thing: The first thing that comes to mind for many people when they hear “Barbie” is blonde hair, high heels, and the colour pink. And no matter what the mini- style icon wears, at least two of these seem to feature in.

Now, you may find Barbie’s style disgusting. You may be a punky, Alice Dellal-esque girl who would rather die than wear a pink sparkly gown (at least un-ironically, anyway). But you’ll notice that most other style icons have their “thing”, too. For Anna Wintour it’s the bob and sunglasses, for Mary Kate Olsen the Starbucks cup and layers, and for Agyness Dean the androgynous haircut and leggings. So find your thing, be it chipped metallic nail polish or tailored cuts and try to combine it with this season’s trends.

Fashion Rules, Debunked

2009-01-24T16:24:00.000-08:00

It startles me, in this day and age of avant-gard, rule-breaking fashion, that I still have friends who refuse to pair a tan purse with black shoes. While some faux-pas will always hold true (VPL=bad, dressing for your shape=good), I think that the majority of them are just rules that have been drilled into people's heads and bear little relevance to what actually looks good together.

Here are some of the most common "fashion rules", and how to break them with panache.

Fashion Rule #1: Lame (I can't figure out how to put an accent over the e so imagine that there is one there!) leggings will make you look like a ho-ish ho-bag.

Though this is a relatively new issue (thanks, American Apparel!), I felt that it was important to address. There is a (logical) misconception among some that clingy, shiny leggings will give off that not-sought-after prostitute vibe. However, if worn right they can be absolutely chic.

Avoid wearing them with shirts that fail to cover your butt, high heels, or anything else shiny.

Try a look like this:

A soft sweaterdress creates an interesting textural contrast and downplays the harsh-ness of the leggings. Make sure that it's baggy and not clingy. Girly accessories like the necklace above soften the look, while flat leather boots look surprisingly good with the combo.

Fashion Rule #2: If you mix patterns you will clash and look horrible and everyone will hate you.

This is the mother of all fashion rules, repeated over and over again by people whom are likely fashion wimps. Mixing patterns can look amazing. Here's an example of how to not look like a clown:

Stripes and plaid and polka-dots, oh my! However, it works because the clothes stay in the same colour scheme, the general feel of the outfit is playful and fun, and not all of the patterns are bold. If you're going to mix patterns, make sure that one dominates while the others stay low-key.

Fashion Rule #3: Socks and sandals should never, ever be paired together.

This is a rule that I personally took it upon myself to enforce as a child, by whispering about the socks & sandals wearer loudly and in a horrified manner to whoever I was with. I'm still not saying that your father's black socks and Birkenstocks combo is on trend. However, peep-toe heels with bright coloured tights, over-the-knee socks, or ankle socks can be surprisingly cute. Try if possible to get a pair of socks where the seam is not at the toe.

Fashion Rule #4: Wearing denim on denim screams "hick".

I still can't claim to be a fan of denim on denim, simply because I'm not really a jeans person to begin with. However, if you're going to do it you might as well do it right.

Make sure that the washes of the denim are really, really far apart. If they are similar shades it will look like you tried to match, and if they're the same shade, you are wearing what some refer to as a "Canadian tuxedo" (never a good look). Wear a long tank or tee under the jacket to create space between the denim. Top the look off with a pair of killer heels, simply because they are awesome.

Fashion Rule #5: Black and brown look terrible together (as do black and navy blue).

I don't even know how this rule came about. All of these colours are neutrals, and neutrals can be paired with anything, including each other. Make sure that the shades look nice together and that the feel of each piece works with the outfit that you have selected, and that's that. For instance, a tan satchel, black boots, and dark navy jeans look great together.

Remember, by no means do I intend for my tips to become the "new" fashion rules. If you want to rock your medium-wash denim jacket with your medium-wash jeans, more power to you. (Just don't expect me to follow suit!) Fashion should be fun! Enjoy it!

Grunge

2009-01-21T13:19:00.000-08:00

How to rock the ongoing grunge trend without looking like you put no effort into your appearance? Chances are you'd rather look like an Olsen or Chloe Sevigny than a homeless person! Here's how.

The Style Classicist:

Pair one grunge-inspired item (like the ubiquitous flannel shirt) with more structured items like fitted skinny jeans and a dressy black heel. Add feminine details, like the locket above, to avoid grunge overload.

The Trend-Spotter:

Wear one extremely bold grunge piece (like acid-washed jeans) with simple, casual items for a laid-back look that isn't sloppy.

The Fashion Risk-Taker:

Piece together lacey, overtly feminine items with more distressed pieces. Torn shorts and an oversized flannel shirt look amazing with black tights and lacey open-toed ankle boots.

back to the future

2009-01-21T13:17:00.000-08:00

Channel your inner Judy Jetson with metallics, interesting angles, and other intergalactic fashions.

cirque du chic

2009-01-17T15:08:00.000-08:00

Fringe

2009-01-16T12:00:00.000-08:00

Fringe, in all of its flappery, cowboyish, hippie glory, has been making a huge comeback, on both the runways and the high street. But how to wear it?

The Style Classicist:

The Style Classicist should try an unexpected accessory, like the above fringed change purse, with a simple but cute outfit, allowing the fringed piece to shine.

The Trend-Spotter:

The Trend-Spotter can try a pretty fringed dress for a special occasion. Pair it with simple, sophisticated accessories along with one special extra, like the decadent charm bracelet above. Take care not to over-accessorise though!

The Fashion Risk-Taker:

Wearing two or more pieces influenced by the same trend at once can be risky. However, the Fashion Risk-Taker is always up for a challenge. As long as the fringes are different from each other in texture, colour, and material you won’t look like a Dolly-Parton wannabe.

Party Photo Land: Gold Belts, Polka Dots, and Love Children

2009-01-16T10:30:00.001-08:00

A couple of years ago, my favourite, favourite source of entertainment was Blue States Lose on Gawker. The column consisted of its author mocking the photos posted on party photo sites such as The Cobra Snake and Last Night’s Party, especially the outfits featured in some of the photos. But the thing is, some of the hipster-y outfits were actually kind of fashion-forward. Ergo, I’ve decided to pay homage to Blue States Lose by doing the exact opposite, and praising the best outfits featured on party photo blogs.

Welcome to Party Photo Land.

So I’ll ignore the fact that this girl, who looks all of fifteen, is hanging out with the thirty-something Cobra Snake, and say that I love her dress and belt. The floral pattern makes it look really 90’s in a good way. I hope that she is wearing this with gladiator sandals or Doc Martens. Because that would be dope.

So ugly it’s beautiful.

I am loving the sheer polka-dot sleeves!

Her shirt is like the jolie-laide love child of a power suit and an American Apparel store. Like it should be really, really unfortunate looking but then you see it and you’re like... “Oh... that kind of works.”

First three photos courtesy of thecobrasnake.com, last photo from lastnightsparty.com

An Inspiration Board for...The Gym

2009-01-15T18:30:00.000-08:00

Because you don't want to be another girl in gym shorts and her brother's T-shirt.

gym wear by morefashionplease

Polka Dots

2009-01-13T12:39:00.000-08:00

Have you ever fallen in love with a trend on the runway but had no idea how to make it work in real life? Although, sadly, giant sailor hats and wigs worn at the front of the face don't seem to translate in real life (but if you could somehow prove that wrong that would be awesome), some trends do. Whether you're a Style Classicist, a Trend-Spotter, or a Fashion Risk-Taker, you can pull off next season's polka-dots like a pro.

First, a rundown of those terms as they'll be used on this blog.

The Style Classicist dresses simply, and, though often very stylish, she is not the first to jump on board for a new trend. Maybe she's just getting interested in fashion, or, contrastly, she is incredibly chic but knows what works for her and sticks with it. Perhaps she is scared to try a new look, or she may simply like to see if a trend has longevity before blowing her budget on more than a few accessories.

The Trend-Spotter is a bit more experimental with her clothing. She likes to try new looks, but likes to work them slowly into her wardrobe. She would never want to look like everyone else but she doesn't automatically want all eyes on her either.

The Fashion Risk-Taker wears the trends she loves without shame. She layers and accessorizes and dresses outrageously, often taking looks directly from the runways.

These labels are absolutely flexible. You may be in between a Trend-Spotter and a Fashion Risk-Taker, or you may be a Style Classicist when it comes to shoulder pads (you love them, but are kind of scared to wear some) and a Fashion Risk-Taker when it comes to colors.

Anyway... on to the polka-dots.

The Style Classicist:

While polka-dots are pretty easy to pull off, if they're not your style you may want to start off with an accessorie, such as the bangle above, paired with classic pieces such as a simple dress or heels in colors that coordinate with the accessory.

The Trend-Spotter

The Trend-Spotter might try one especially bold piece, such as a bright polka-dotted vintage coat, and pair it with more basic items, such as pointy-toed boots and classic Jackie O sunglasses.

The Fashion Risk-Taker:

The Fashion Risk-Taker might try wearing multiple polka-dot items, a la this season's Marni. Just make sure that the polka dots are in basic colors and different enough that it doesn't look like you're trying to match. Pair with some clashing floral tights to make the look even more fun.

Runway photo from style.com.

Other photos found on polyvore.com, click on collages to see where items are from.

Gossip Girl Fashion: Episode 2.14

2009-01-12T12:51:00.000-08:00

The best outfit of the episode, hands down, was the outfit Queen B wore for her interview with the ladies from the club.
Does she not look completely Audrey Hepburn-esque?
I love it! I think I love all of the outfits below individually but together they look a tad Gap ad-ish. I understand that the stylist went for the matching thing in order to establish them as a clique or whatever, but i'm not a fan...

I love, love, love Jenny's shirt. It looks a little CDG, no?

Whenever I think that the oversized glasses thing is becoming passe, I see a pair like Nelly's and I want to buy some.

Here we get the matching again. Isabel's coat is clearly the cutest. You can tell that she's sort of looking a Hazel's ruffles in disgust.

And let's finish off the post with some more Blairyfull awesomeness.

Sigh.

Cheap Picks for Winter 2008/2009

2008-12-29T21:12:00.000-08:00

Armani taste on an American Apparel budget?

Check out this season's Cheap Picks

Violet T-Strap Flat, $34.50, delias.com

I think that these are so cute. They're like the Mary Janes you wore as a child but the texture roughs them up a little. Unisex Circle Scarf, $33, American Apparel

Is this not the most amazingly versatile thing that you've ever seen? I mean, I know it's been a tad overhyped but I still super-want one.

Seriously, if you doubt it, feast your little eyes on this:

It's incredible!

Sweater Floral Earwarmers, $24, Urban Outfitters:
How cute is this? It's like the adorable yet slightly deformed lovechild of 80s-y earwarmers and something adorable that your grandma would knit for you.

Sleeveless Color-block Dress, $22.80, Forever 21
This is so modern mod. It looks pretty well-cut, too.

Janet Plaid Woven Shirt, $22.80, Forever 21

Even though I'm a fan of the men's-shirt-as-a-dress trend, I'll admit that sometimes it's easier to get a good fit in the shoulders and sleeves by "cheating" and buying a shirtdress.

Deux Lux Double Cross Bag, $68, Urban Outfitters

Structured boho-chic.

Unlikely Style Icon: Claudia Kishi from the Baby-Sitters Club

2008-12-24T19:08:00.000-08:00

There are some style icons: (Audrey Hepburn, Coco Chanel, Jackie Kennedy) whose stylishness is undeniable and almost universal. Then there are those who teach us style lessons in their own, often overlooked way. They are (cue super hero music) Unlikely Style Icons!

This month’s? Claudia Kishi of Baby-Sitters Club fame.

Why Claudia: For those who grew up in the 80’s and 90’s, the Baby-Sitters Club was a way of life. The books focused on a group of friends, the coolest of which was undeniably Claudia.
Claudia was a crazy artsy girl who made paper-mache jewellery and painted clothing. She was known for putting together “theme outfits” (such as an “under-the –sea” one where she wore a blue skirt and jelly sandals with fish painted on them). Though she would never wear the same outfit twice, her staples were men’s shirts (snagged from her father’s closet), push-down socks, and brightly coloured leggings. Her inventiveness and self-confidence seem refreshing in today’s often conformist fashion world.

Embrace Your Inner Claudia:
1. Don’t Be Afraid to Be Crafty:
Claudia would never wear an outfit that wasn’t personalized at least a little. Creating something allows you to take pride in your outfit and it’s mad fun. Plus, you can create that look you dream of when it isn’t available in stores. Whether this means going full-on Claudia with puffy-painted T-shirts and hand-maid fruit-shaped earrings or simply sewing bigger buttons on to an old shirt is up to you.

2. Try a “Theme” Outfit: While Claudia’s style was a bit out there, it was also almost ironically matchy-matchy. She’d wear, for instance, a poodle skirt with poodle earrings and a shirt with a poodle on it. She called outfits like this and her under-the-sea outfit “pulling a Miss Frizzle” (of Magic School Bus fame). Go ahead and dress where your mood leads you. Try your own under the sea outfit or an old school aviator outfit or a super-hero-explorer-princess-in-the-1920’s-who-loves-cats outfit. When you’re feeling uninspired by your wardrobe, pick a theme and rock it.

3. Be Confident in Your Style: Claudia lived in a small New England town, where jeans and T-shirts were the norm and her friends dressed nothing like her. Yet, at her school, she was regarded as a fashion icon. Why? Confidence. She knew that she was well-dressed and refused to wear anything that she didn’t love. No one dressed like her and she loved it. Take pride in being an individual, and don’t second-guess yourself when it comes to what you wear.

4. Try Menswear-Inspired Looks: Claudia was known for stealing her father’s button-downs. She’d wear them unbuttoned over a tighter ensemble, as a dress over leggings, knotted a la Britney (but with a tank underneath) and about a zillion other ways. She also rocked ties way before Avril, and would wear baggy carpenter pants with fedoras. Go ahead and raid the men’s section of your favourite store. Guy’s sunglasses are rad (and often cheaper), a long shirt unbuttoned over a dress of the same length looks good, and a huge blazer over leggings is 80’s cool. At least one magazine per month does a “Ohmigod, menswear inspired styles rock!” feature, so you’re bound to find something.

5. Layer Like Mad:
Claudia would wear things like a baggy shirt over a vest over a tee shirt with two skirts, leggings, and socks. Layers are awesome. They keep you warm in winter, allow you to get the most of out of your wardrobe, and look pretty damn cool. Try doing a sundress over a coordinating thermal, a Erin Wasson-esque tank over a bandeau, or over the knee socks over tights.

Claudia Essentials:

1. Men’s Shirt:All-Son pinstripe roll-up shirt, $44, urbanoutfitters.com

2. Unitard: Cotton spandex jersey unitard in eggplant, $40, americanapparelstore.com

3. High Tops: Converse high-tops in red delias.com

4. Printed Dress: Marc by Marc Jacobs Daydream Print Dress, $378, eluxury.com

5. Unique Earrings: Dinosaur earrings, Etsy Seller: veryvintage, $4, etsy.com

6. Snake Bracelet: Cleo gold snake bracelet, $49.99, emitations.com

7. “Painted” Tee: H18 All You Need is Love tee, $14.90, forever21.com

8. Puffy Paint:images.google.ca

sorry, k-plast

2008-12-21T16:19:00.000-08:00

According to WWD, all American Kira Plastinina stores will be closing today.

Sad, I guess. But perhaps now every teen magazine will stop shoving her blah clothes down our throats?

I've never really been a fan, her stuff looks really mall-y to me. Maybe if she actually went to design school and then started a line it would be better?

However, everything's on major sale, so if your little heart desires you can go and get a discount on all the logo tees and metallic everything that you crave.

Gossip Girl Fashion: A Very Blair-y Post (S.2 E.13)

2008-12-20T22:53:00.000-08:00

Last week's Gossip Girl was a little light on the criticizable fashion, since making fun of funeral outfits seems a little sketch, even when the funeral is for a fictional character.

Dorota's headpiece was one of my FAVORITE items worn in the episode. It's so beautiful and a fun play on the stereotype of the maid wearing a little hat.

Actually, Queen D's whole outfit was pretty cute (see below)

And Blair's dress for the wedding was gorgeous! Look at the cut! I'm obsessing over it a little.

This outfit was also really cute! It's funny because I could totally see it on someone 40 years Blair's senior but she looks lovely in it! Very Audrey Hepburn goes corporate!

All photos courtesy of gossipgirlonline.net

falling for pre-fall

2008-12-09T12:33:00.000-08:00

sorry for the utter cheesiness of the title.

but.

BUT.

here is what's happening on the pre-fall runways right now (aka what was happening on them circa like a week ago when i started this post...)

Zac Posen:

Zac Posen's collection was full of, to use the most over-used phrase in the entire world, "old Hollywood glamour". However, it was also a little 1920's show-girl-ish, with lots of fringe and such. Burberry Prorsum:

The Burberry Prorsum collection was wearably vintage-inspired, with some of the most beautiful prints ever.

Chanel:

Chanel was ridiculously decadent (who would expect less from Karl?). But the elaborate headdresses were paired with beautiful knits and re-imagined Chanel suits.

Doo Ri:

Doo Ri's collection was absolutely It-girl-esque. The clothes don't fight for attention, but have little details such as drop-waists and ruffles that make there wearer the coolest girl in the room.

Narciso Rodriguez:

Narciso Rodriguez's collection was full of beautiful cocktail dresses. Think a cooler version of what women's interest magazines advise their readers to wear to holiday parties.

Oscar de la Renta:

De la Renta's collection was, as per usual, relatively simple at first glance, but immaculately cut. Lots of beautiful, slightly pleated A-line skirts and cute jackets.

Carolina Herrera:

Herrera's collection was very Blair from Gossip Girl (you know that I connect EVERYTHING back to Queen B). It included lots of knee-length hem-lines and an almost 1940's silhouette.

All photos courtesy of style.com, collages made by me.

vogue-ing

2008-12-08T13:23:00.000-08:00

Just a quick post today because I have an exam tomorrow:

How beautiful is this? Oh Vogue.

Why can't your covers today look like this?

(Picture: Vogue cover, December 1934 issue from coverbrowser.com)

Unlikely Style Icon: Will Smith from the Fresh Prince of Bel Air

2008-12-07T23:13:00.000-08:00

There are those who are obvious style icon material. Audrey Hepburn. Grace Kelly. Kate Moss.

And then there are those who are less screamingly stylish, but have some definite fashion cred.

For instance, Will Smith.

No, not the actor, well-dressed as he is, but the character of the same name whom he played on one of the 90's best sitcoms - the Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

Whether you were a fan in its glory days or, like me, watched it in reruns, you have to admit that Will was stylin'. In crazy blazers, tilted caps, and patterned shirts, he was ballin'.

1. American Apparel Unisex Geometry T-shirt in Red/Navy/Yellow, $40, picture from store.americanapparel.ca
Will was all about the wacky patterns and bright primary colors.

2. Marc by Marc Jacobs Wavelength Print Jacket, $348, picture from shopbop.com
Wild, printed blazers were a key component of the Fresh Prince’s wardrobe.

3. Emilio Pucci Crystal Puffer Jacket, $869, picture from eluxury.com
Brightly coloured zany prints were Will’s patterns of choice.

4. 59fifty Superman Hat, $31.99, picture from lids.com
Will was rarely seen without a cap perched on his head.

5. Essie-Pi exclusive to American Apparel Gold-Plated Eddie Bracelet, $29, picture from store.americanapparel.ca
You know that Jazz would try to steal this bling. Who could blame him?

6. Adidas Men’s Blow-Up Tee, $34.99, picture from adidas.com
Will would be all about this tee. (As would I, perhaps tucked into a skirt or paired with leggings.)

7. Nike Geo Terminator High Premium Sneakers, $100, picture from urbanoutfitters.com
Any fresh princess worth her salt needs a decent pair of kicks.

8. Band of Outsiders Neon Skinny Tie in Blue, $138, picture from eluxury.com
Will rocked the loud ties for school. And face it, this is way cooler than the ones you stole from your dad during your Avril phase.

So, I encourage you, darlings. Go out and mix some prints, wear a preppy blazer with some gangsta sneakers, and follow in Will's fantastic footsteps.

shoe-bop: purchases

2008-12-06T11:44:00.000-08:00

So despite my student budget, yesterday I partook in one of my favorite activities in the world: shoe shopping!

A few months ago my favorite pair of black Wal-Mart flats, which I've had for years, finally reached the point of worn-in-ness that I like to call "destroyed beyond belief". I've been hunting for basic flats for a while now and only finding faux Tory Burch grossness. So I was incredibly happy last night when I spotted these beauties at H&M for $17.

And then, I discovered the boots that I'd been hunting for. Backstory: my mom has these gorgeous equestrian-style boots from the 1980's that I borrowed pretty much every day of the last two winters. However, she didn't allow me to bring them to university, tragically. So here is my replacement pair. They were $180 at Aldo. My friend says that they look like Puss in Boots boots! I love them so much.

Excuse the terrible lighting and background. I live in a dorm...

Gossip Girl Fashion: gowns galore (episode 2.12 "It's a Wonderful Lie)

2008-12-05T18:46:00.000-08:00

This week's episode of Gossip Girl was clearly drama-full. However, the best part of it was not the fights over Nate, catty pranks, or boring Bart's car accident.

No, it was the Snow Ball gowns. Vanessa's is cute enough minus the whole see-through under spot lights issue. The matchy-matchy silver accessories are a bit much but I really like the cut and it's nice to see Vanessa in something remotely cute for once.

Penelope's dress is just so prom-y. It's clear that Little J was still harboring some resentful feelings toward her when she designed it! The fabric is yucky and I really don't like the hem.

Hazel's is cute in a debutante-esque way, but I wish that there was more definition of the waist between the bodice and the skirt, because it makes her look a little fat (which she is clearly NOT!)

I actually really, really like Isabel's dress. It's incredibly Disney princess, but still chic and well cut. The fabric looks gorgeous and I love the bodice.

Serena's dress is very Serena! I can't actually decide if I love it or hate it! The fabric and beading are beautiful but the short-in-the-front-long-in-the-back thing turns it into the mullet of dresses...

And last but not least, Queen B. Her dress is lovely but pretty simple. Where is the gigantic bow headband? The daring colour combinations? The bold hosiery?

Blair, dear, it's like we don't even know you anymore.

And yet I like it...

All photos courtesy of gossipgirlfan.org

project acid wash

2008-11-10T09:20:00.000-08:00

so...

i tried my un-crafty little hands at DIY the other day

on a thrifted club monaco t

i like it but i don't think it's amazing or anything

i definitely like the back more

i might re-bleach it to make it a little less uniform.

however.

funny moment.

after bleaching it i went to throw it in the wash in my dorm.

but a guy on my floor was already using both machines, so he offered to throw it in with his stuff.

anyway, afterwards he was like "umm...did you see your shirt? did it look like that before?"

the poor guy thought that he had wrecked my shirt!

random thought

2008-11-04T16:59:00.000-08:00

i love the blatant allusion to cory kennedy through the character of agnes on gossip girl
and how the guy in the first agnes episode was so mark the cobra snakey

Fall 08 Wish List

2008-10-28T17:01:00.000-07:00

Time for some Fendi dreams on my Forever 21 budget!

3.1 Phillip Lim Runway High-Waist Brocade Skirt ($375):

(photo courtesy of eluxury.com)

Insert drool here. Seriously, I am so in love with this skirt. It's playful but still sophisticated. It feels like something that could be worn from a job interview to class (well, if you don't subscribe to the icky sweatpants and school hoodie uniform) to a club.

Jean-Paul Gaultier Metallic Booties with Tooled Applique ($810)

(photo courtesy of eluxury.com)

A shoe-lover's dream! I like how the silver adds an edge to the sweet detailing.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Satin Puff Jacket ($398):

(photo courtesy of shopbop.com)

Confession: I never really went in for that puffer jacket trend a few years ago. It reminded me of the elementary school years of practical, mom-mandated ski jackets, when I yearned to grow up and be able to wear chic capelets and peacoats. (Yes, I was a weird kid...) But this coat oozes Blair-Waldorfiness (the highest of sartorial compliments, in my opinion). Not to mention the fact that it looks decently warm

Moschino Cheap and Chic Open-Toe Kiltie Pump ($425):

(photo courtesy of shopbop.com)

How awesome are these? I LOVE the fringe!

distill is my love

2008-10-22T20:59:00.000-07:00

so friends,
time for me to shamelessly gush to the point where you'd think that i'm being paid to endorse the following magazine!
(alas, it is not so)

Distill magazine is the new love of my life.
Its first issue just came out and it is a beauty.

Basically, its staff reads all the most recent issues of fashion mags, from the mainstream to crazy indie Hungarian magazines (how much would I love that job?) and then publishes the best editorials.

oh yeah.
there's also commentary by MATTHEW F-ING WILLIAMSON.
It's fabulous (albeit nudity-containing).
It's website is distilldigital.com
Ch-ch-ch-check it out.

gah

2008-10-16T12:57:00.000-07:00

maybe it's time for me to give up my beloved american apparel belt as hippy headband look.

i wear it A LOT.

i think that it's the easiest thing in the world, it allows me to channel my inner hippy, it looks great with a lot of my clothes, and it works well with messy-i-was-too-lazy-to-do-my-hair-hair.

so why give it up, you ask?

no, it's not because everyone and their mom now rocks the hippy headband.

or because it kind of makes a funny-looking dent in your hair when you take it out.

or because it doesn't work as well with my new bob as it did with my straggly summer hair.

no.

it would be because of this:

sorry, eyes.

Photo Credit: Go Fug Yourself

First Seasonal More Fashion Please Awards: Spring 2009 RTW

2008-10-09T10:28:00.000-07:00

Best Overall Collection:

Hannah McGibbon's first collection for Chloe was just unbelieveably it-girly. I. LOVE.IT!

I'm also loving the Brenda Walshyness of this (if anyone is, like me, obsessed with Beverly Hills 90210 reruns you'll catch the reference!)

Best New York Collection: Marc by Marc Jacobs

I know that fashion is not defined by wearability, but I like Marc by Marc's more subtle take on the vintagey look that we saw at Jacobs' main show.

Best London Collection:

Now I know we all lusted after Luella and went ape for Christopher Kane (excuse the alliteration/pun, I'm slightly sleep-deprived) but I felt like House of Holland was the real standout. It was youthful and creative and gorgeous. I want those jeans sooo badly!

Best Paris Collection (excluding Chloe): John Galliano

Galliano's collection, based on British history, makes me reconsider Buckingham Palace guards and the Queen Mother as style icons!

Best Milan Collection: Marni

Marni's collection looks like someone playing dress-up in their mother's closet. While the pieces are all fairly simple, they have a bit of an edge, and the stylist for the show was clever in the coordination of the outfits.

All pictures taken from style.com.

Collages made by me (please do not use without permission).

whitney port is a zillion times more stylish than lauren conrad, lisa love confirms

2008-10-07T17:43:00.000-07:00

Excuse the news-y headline
I had my 5 hour Culture of News class today and am still in intrepid reporter mode
But, i digress.

Lisa Love, West Coast Editor of Teen Vogue, told one of those horrible-tabloidy-magazines-we-all-pretend-not-to-read-but-totally-secretly-love that she likes Whitney Port's collection for her new clothing line, Eve & A

"Whitney has good taste. The designs are simple and chic. They reflect her sense of style. We'd consider them for Teen Vogue."

Now, when asked about Lauren's line, Lauren Conrad Collection, a while back, the fabulous Ms. Love brushed it off, saying "It's more T-shirt kind of things and jeans, basics."

I have to say, my dears, I agree.

Let's compare, shall we:

Eve & A (dresses below):

I can't say that I'm a huge fan of these dresses (which is weird because I'm a cocktail dress junkie) but I think the one on the left would be cute with really simple accessories. The one on the right's just kind of blah, you know? Like, I've seen this before. It's nice but nothing groundbreaking. That said, if Kate Moss or someone truly fabulous were to wear it, she would so rock it.

Lauren Conrad Collection (Fall 2008, pictures below): Upon seeing Lauren Conrad Collection designs, my heart always sort of sinks. I mean, it just seems like she put absolutely no effort into designing these clothes. I'm all for simple chic, but I don't appreciate simple jersey dresses being marketed as this creative new fashion line. To me it sort of looks like less cute, way more expensive American Apparel stuff (I love me some American Apparel, but I'm not willing to pay the price Lauren charges for her jersey dresses).

Incidentally, don't you just love the not-so-subtle Lauren-look-a-like model? When the pictures are so small, it looks like she IS Lauren. I also enjoy that the shirt in the second picture (yup, that's the piece being sold) is styled with a beret. It's so "remember that time when I went to paris? and I rode on that guy's vespa and messed up my dress and it was soo much fun?" I'm not opposed to designers being influenced by their own lives but this is just so blatant.

I'm with Lisa Love on this one.

Et tu?

PS: Let's not even talk about Heidiwood...

http://www.anchorblue.com/heidiwood/the_collection.php

Cheap Picks for Summer

2008-07-16T15:11:00.000-07:00

Yes, we all love YSL and Lacroix, but how many of us actually buy these labels on a regular basis? (If you do, please send all cast-offs my way!)

That's where Cheap Picks comes in. I've made it my personal mission to find the cutest clothes from your favorite chain stores.

Here goes:

From Forever 21:

H81 Buttonless Cardigan: $19.90

Granted, it doesn't look like much, but it seems like it would be amazing on. Sort of late-80's. With a striped shirt, dark skinny jeans and ballet flats or gladiator sandals.

From Urban Outfitters:

Endless Summer Sunglasses: $18.00

These sunglasses are the fabulous love child of the classic Jackie O frames and this season's Ray-Bans. I could see them on the coolest girl at the pool, with a bikini or maybe a paisley sundress.

Urban Renewal Levi's Cutoffs: $28.00

These are super 80's punk meets 90's grunge chic. They could so be your new summer staple.

From American Apparel:

Unisex Mineral Wash Stretch Bull Denim Slim Slack: $75

I'm most likely buying these this weekend. I LOVE them! They're basic but the acid wash makes them just a little bit different. They're also really cute in blue.

From Old Navy:

Suspended Halter Dress: $24.50

Comes in navy, black, and gray. Cute, versatile, and can take you from the beach to a semi-formal party in a second.

Knit Halter Dress: $24.50

I love the baltic print of this dress, which, though daring, would look gorgeous with gladiator sandals and large sunglasses.

hiatus over

2008-07-16T15:06:00.000-07:00

Well, dear readers, I am officially back from dead.
And by the dead I mean exams, parties, and procrastination.
Look forward to new posts soon!
And feel free to make suggestions for stuff you'd like to see on this blog.

Contact

2008-03-31T21:54:00.000-07:00

To get in touch with More Fashion, Please's fabulous editor for link exchanges and the like:

email

morefashionplease@hotmail.com

Lorick: Gossip-Worthy Fashion

2008-03-31T20:50:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that the CW's Gossip Girl is one of the most fashionable shows on TV.

In fact, it's one of those shows that frequently inspires me to shout "I love her dress! Where did she get that?", much to the annoyance of any friends or family trying to watch the show. However, it seems my wishes for Blair-worthy fashion have come true in the form of Lorick, a new line by FIT-trained Abigail Lorick.

Here's how it works:

Every piece that you see on the show that is obstensibly designed by Eleanor Waldorf (such as those fabulous low-back dresses Blair and Serena wore in the model-y episode), is actually one of Lorick's pieces. Feminine yet adventurous, Lorick's clothes are worth splurging on!

Images courtesy of loricknewyork.com

Fashion at the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards?

2008-03-30T18:32:00.000-07:00

This may come as a shock, but fashion did make a cameo at the ceremony, in the form of Miss America Ferrera's gorgeous dress. The color and shape flatter her and the dress is adorable.

Designer to Watch: Wren

2008-03-21T14:00:00.000-07:00

After much searching, I have found my favorite new designer. Recently named one of Style.com's Editor's Picks for Fall 2008's Top Ten New Designers, Wren is designed by Melissa Coker, a veteren of such diverse employers as Helmut Lang, Abercrombie and Fitch, and Vogue.

Every one of Wren's pieces, though wearable, is distinctive and well-cut. The general vibe of the line is reminiscent of a shoot for Nylon, though more simple and grown up.

Spring 2008 Wish List - Spring's Best Items

2008-03-14T22:42:00.000-07:00

3.1 Phillip Lim Fringe Sandal

I love the way these sandals are in tune with spring's "explorer" trend and yet aren't too overtly high fashion (ie. one could wear them to a fabulous party or camping). The fringe detail is a fun seasonal update on winter's fringed boots.

3.1 Phillip Lim Happiness Boyfriend Tee

This shirt looks like one of those fun 80's finds someone would buy at a thrift store in a movie (you know, those mythical thrift stores where you don't need to rummage through the stained, plus size sweat suits to find the good stuff). I love the slightly too-long sleeves and the fun graphics - cute!

Marc by Marc Jacobs Cashmere Colorblock Dress

This dress is so fun! It's girly and trendy, but still wearable. I love the pairing of the turqouise blue with the navy - an odd combination and yet the white blocks in between break it up and make the combination stunning. Plus, it's cashmere and thus super-comfy.

Marc Jacobs Collection Peep Toe with Misplaced Heel

These are controversial, yes, but I would wear them! By keeping the color scheme simple, Jacobs allows the heel to be the focal point. These are definitely shoes for getting noticed, but with a simple shift dress, they would look excellent.

Topshop T Bar Shoe

Topshop is the love of my life. Not living in England, I have to make due with Topshop binges every time I'm in London (which is unfortunately every few years). These shoes call to mind Restoration era plays and witty banter. The tassel detail updates the t bar and keeps it fresh.