NYFW: The Best So Far

We are now three days into Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. There have been many fantastic shows to kick it off. Here are a few of my favorite shows so far, for those of you who haven't had a chance to watch the shows, or those who just can't get enough!

BCBGMAXAZRIA

The BCBG Max Azria show is one of my favorites every season. They have that ultimate effortless-chic feel, and the fabrics are so soft and rich. I love just going into a BCBG store and trying all of the dresses on.
The Spring 2015 show was gentle and romantic. the clothing was simple and neutral, with lots of blush and cream colors. The BCBGMAXAZRIA website says that the collection was full of Mediterranean vibes and effortless prints.

Meskita

This was an up-and-coming label I had never heard of before. The collection was very regal, with a Summer Princess feel. There was a lot of pleating, which gave a rich, voluminous feel. Gold was the main color, but it was used in a tasteful way with subtle gold shines on white pleats, gold bands, and a few completely gold dresses.

Marissa Webb

The new Banana Republic creative director's personal label had a very professional yet feminine feel. the clothing was simple and flowy, with the color palette mainly consisting of black and white. Webb had the perfect balance of structured and loose-fitting.

Overall, with a few exceptions like Desigual and Lacoste, the trend so far has been gentle, romantic and light. I can't wait to see the remainder of the shows!

The "IT" Color of Fall

Fall 2014 is all about depth. Rich colors engulfing us and comforting us as we brave the weather to come. And what better to do so than a deep red? Different shades of maroon are everywhere this fall! 

Gap

DKNY

Alexander Wang

Whether you want an everyday piece like the Gap sweater, or an investment piece like this Alexander Wang coat, be sure to get your fill of maroon now!

Words from the Mouth of Fashion: Vivienne Westwood

"Buy less, choose well."

~Vivienne Westwood, designer

It's always good to go shopping with a game plan, otherwise you end up spending money you didn't know you had, or buying items you didn't need or want!

Yes, with the rise of fast-fashion stores such as H&M and Zara, buying more has suddenly become easier and cheaper. But is cheaper always better?

Even with cheap being available, you should be picky with what you bring home. (Yes, when it comes to fashion and shopping, being picky can be a good thing!) It can save you money, and can allow you to consider bigger, nicer buys. It's always good to have a couple statement pieces, even if that means a few less tees!

So remember Vivienne Westwood's words next time you feel the urge to go shopping, and be purposeful in your browsing!

Midi Skirts: What (Not) to Do

I'm sure you have all heard of the Midi Skirt by now. It became popular this past year, and its popularity has not decreased since!

While it may seem like you can't go wrong with this style, there ARE right and wrong ways to wear it.

First of all, the skirt has to be one of two things:

1)made with a light material that adds next to nothing to your frame:

Google Images

*OR*

2) Made with a heavier material, like this one:

Google Images

Semi-bulky midis are unflattering and misleading as to whether the extra bulk is a part of YOU or the skirt. Often they just add unwanted pounds to your lower body physique.

Tips for wearing midis:

• If you are looking to add some shape to your frame, then go for a high waisted midi made with a thick material, like the one above, which accentuates a small waist and flares out, giving the appearance of more curves.
• The same goes for women trying to take attention away from a larger lower body. The skirt flares on its own, and continues to flare almost to the end, elongating the curve and making the shape under become one with the skirt.
• No matter what shape you are, always experiment with different varieties! Everyone is different, and different types may look good on you, and not on others. 
• Pick a time to go to your favorite store, grab every midi off the racks, and have your own little dressing room party!

If the idea of midi skirts have always made you sick, remember these modern midis aren't just the typical 50's skirts. There are many different styles, shapes, and materials being used now, making the midi more flashy and unique than ever.

Pinterest, my own collage

If you don't love the way the length looks on you, or you just want to try a different take, try a midi wrap skirt!

Pinterest

Pinterest

A midi skirt can be many different things! If you don't like one of the styles, then try a different one!

What are your thoughts on the Midi?

Words from the Mouth of Fashion: Franca Sozzani

Franca Sozzani, Vogue Italia Editor-in-Chief

“I don’t like fashionistas. They only wear the brand. You want to become a fashionista? Easy! Spend money.”

-Franca Sozzani, Vogue Italia Editor-in-Chief

Every week from now on, I am going to post a quote about fashion that I want to share with you, and explain a bit of what it means to me. So above is the quote for week one, from Franca Sozzani.

I agree with the fact that almost anyone can be a fashionista if they have the money. 
Its true that anyone can be considered fashionable and trendy if they go and buy the newest Chanel ensemble. 

It's not bad to appreciate good design and want to wear attractive clothes, but it is also good to hear that people in the fashion business, like Franca Sozzani, can see through the clothing and won't evaluate only based on how expensive or flashy an outfit is. 

What do you think? Is this a harsh statement, or generally true?

Wearable Technology- Ringly

Lately we've been bombarded with all sorts of products claiming that they are "wearable technology". But many of them are unappealing and unattractive, which almost takes the "wearable" out of them, for the fashion forward. Guaranteed, there are some good ideas out there, and they are a start. But there is a new product coming out in the fall that is not only high-tech, but also fashionable! Made by the designers at ringly.com, these hot new rings, made with 18K matte gold, will tell you when you receive that important email you've been waiting for, great for situations where it would be rude to check your phone every few seconds. Also, these rings look fantastic! I would wear them just for the look! 

Daydream

 "With technology so discreet, you’ll forget it does anything other than accessorize your favorite looks." (Ringly)

For more information, visit their website, ringly.com.

Design Prom Dress: Check!

Hey guys, I've written a few posts before on how I was designing my prom dress. My prom was last week, and I am so happy to say that i finished making my dress in time! Yay! here are a couple pictures of it:

I was so excited to wear it and I was very happy for the way it turned out! This was my first real sewing project, so it was a lot of trial and error, and I still have many things to learn! I can't wait to start designing my dress for next year!

PLEASE tell me what you think about it, and if you have any specific complements or critiques I would love to hear them in the comment section! 

Thank you!