Milan Fashion Week: Illustration of Kristina Bazan

As always, the shows at Milan Fashion Week have been great. And likewise, the street style has been on point. One of my favorite street style heroes has been Kristina Bazan, founder of Kayture. She wore a fantastic ensemble, which included a Tod's Cape and Jimmy Choo boots, to the Tod's show,  which I illustrated:

View on my Instagram

I hope you like it! If anyone has a suggestion on who else I should illustrate, please comment or email me at alysj1215@gmail.com !

Have a wonderful Sunday!

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.

New York, New York

Friday is always the best day of the week, right? Well for me, this past Friday was extra special. Because...it was the first time I have ever been in NYC! And it won't be my last.
You all know how I aim to be a fashion designer, so the reason for the trip was actually to go to an information session at the renowned Fashion Institute of Technology. The school was amazing, both physically and in theory, and the opportunities they make available for their students both during school and afterwards is extensive and impresive. I look forward to applying in the fall!

And New York itself is absolutely stunning. Google Street View just doesn't do it justice. And the stores in Times Square have their own DJs? You've gotta be kidding me!
For the last portion of our time, we went down to Soho to have dinner with our cousin. We ate at Mezzogiorno, an Italian restaurant with some of the best food I've ever had. The business was just starting to pick up when we left around 9:30, and the candles and wine glasses scattered around made for an excellent atmosphere.

So here's a small summary of my Friday. I could have included a lot more, and I'm sure my dad would be upset that I didn't include anything about going in Madison Square Garden, but hey, he'll get over it! But seriously, every inch of the City was stunning and I'm just itching to go back!

(Photos found on google images, they are not my own)

Top 10 New Season Arrivals

Hi!

 

Natalie, here from Couttiepie. I’ve had the absolute pleasure of collaborating with the lovely Alyssa and having full reign to do a guest post on this here blog for you guys!

 

I’ve been having my usual nosey round the high street to see what new styles the S/S 2014 season will bring, and there are some beautiful items out there at the minute! Androgynous style is still a very big thing this season with gingham and check prints, straight cut blazers and patterned slacks bouncing around the stores, though this trend is now teamed with more pleats than in A/W, while pastels are also making a big comeback in order to add a fun atmosphere to the ‘off duty’ look!

 

 

 

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10

 

 

What do you guys think of the new season arrivals? Have you spotted any favourites yet?

 

Saturday Select: Dreaming of Sun

Now that I'm back to regular blogging...it means that I'm back to Saturday inspiration posts! To freshen your memory, I do a quick post on Saturdays with pictures to inspire you for the weekend, or pick you up from a bad week. There is typically a new theme to the set of pictures with each new week.
So this week I have been really wishing for summer, as I'm sure all of you are too, and the warmth today didnt help much. So here are a few bright ideas to remind you that summer will come soon enough!

We're already halfway through February, summer will come soon enough! I hope this gave you some happy, warm thoughts and maybe some new ideas! Have a great weekend!

Fashion February: NUMARI Sheath Dress

Happy February! For my first Fashion February post, the goal was to come up with the perfect compliments to this gorgeous NUMARI sheath dress. While the dress is so very versatile and can be worn for many different occasions, I knew immediately that I wanted to dress it for an everyday type of look. Here are my picks:

As you can see, the dress is black with camel accents in the corners. The neutral colors allowed for a bit of color play, as with the coat. Because of the elegant nature of the color scheme, I wanted to leave all the other pieces somewhat simple and make sure they brought out the rich colors found in the dress.

The Coat: This is a lamb suede jacket in distressed brown, and it can be found at Free People. The worn in feel of the coat dresses down the dress a bit (that sounds weird) and allows the dress to be used for everyday wear. It also adds a bit of color to the outfit, while the deep hue still leaves that rich, elegant feel of the dress.

The Necklace: This sweet pearl necklace is sold by Anthropologie and somewhat mimicks Chanel's new gigantic pearl necklaces, but with slightly smaller pearls! The pearls keep the outfit simple, while the chic, nontraditional design adds a modern twist.

The Hair Tie: This domed gold plate from Shopbop adds a bit of hair going without overdoing it. The gold well compliments the camel accents in the dress.

The Purse: This Coach Classic bag comes in smooth leather that can be worn with the strap or as a clutch. The simple but sleek design well compliments the outfit and ties into the black dress, but its simple enough to not draw away from the core of the outfit.

The Shoes: These Michael Antonio Jace sandals are the perfect finish for the outfit. They have a unique design thats adds another interesting element, but at the same time they have a neutral color so they dont take away from the rest of the outfit.

So, I'm thinking that the outfit would look something like this:

So, tell me what you think! Do you like my take on the dress?

Float in Pastels

Can spring be any farther away? Well, I guess, technically it could. But it doesn't feel like it could be. But, you can try to beckon it closer by wearing one of this spring's biggest trends: bold pastels are now IN!

Google Images

Is there such a thing as bold pastels? Doesn't it sound kind of like an oxymoron?

Yes there are. I'm not talking about bold as in neon, or cotton candy. The hues are still soft, yet they have a bit of umph to them. Think about that art kit you had as a kid. The oil pastels?

Google Images

Those. The brilliant blues with soft pinks; the peaches and cream. Think of the kind of color that always has a little dog walking besides it. The kind that always seems to have a white background following it around, as if it just NEEDED its own background; the dirty earth is not fitting enough. The kind that wears cat-eye sunglasses and plays tennis in its spare time.

Google Images

Pantone Spring Color Report

So, am I saying that you have to buy a cute little dog and start playing tennis? Not unless you want to. But it's certainly a fun part to play, isn't it?

Time to Change

 

 

 

I'm sorry. I've been so selfish lately.

Not only with my family and friends, but with my interactions with my fellow bloggers as well.
All I've been thinking with my relationships is "What can I get out of this?"
 I haven't cared about how I can help others, or how they might feel. I only do things when I want to do things, and only cared about what I want to care about.

With my blog, all I've really been focused on is growing my followers. I haven't really viewed anyone else's blogs, or commented for a reason besides wanting them to see my link. I'm not saying I did this with everyone; I really did have some genuine comments. But they should always be because I really enjoyed what they were saying.

So this is a big sorry. I won't be perfect, but I want to care more about you all. I'm not only going to care about followers or benefits (while it IS still important, and I will of course be very happy to get more followers). But I think instead of viewing follows as something I have earned, I am going to view them as something to be grateful for.

Thank you all my followers, readers, family, and friends for loving me and supporting me, even the selfish me! I love you all!

A Pearly Takeover

So you thought that YOU had big pearls, did you? Well I bet they don't compare to Chanel's. Not the typical Chanel strands, I'm talking about the geometric, artistic ones we saw in their spring/summer 2014 show.

Google Images

Big, right? Not only are they taking over the fashion scene overall, but they are also taking the full attention in any outfit they are a part of.

Google Images

I absolutely love these necklaces, bracelets, and rings. This collection is new, different, and certainly not one you could find elsewhere. I would surround them with simple, solid colors, as you really want the attention to be fully brought to them, and wouldn't want to clutter your look with too many statements. (You can tell I'm not a huge fan of the "mixing patterns" trend!)

What do you guys think?

Be Remembered

So.... Here's the kickoff to the #2014BloggerChallenge !! The first post is a picture or quote that inspires us for the new year.

So I found this on Pinterest ( where else?) and thought that it was a good reminder for why we should dress ourselves nicely. Even though "standing out" and "being remembered" sound much like the same thing, they have different connotations. You can easily stand out, but even if you are noticed, you can be easily forgotten. Where as if you dress and behave to be remembered, you will have a much bigger impact on others.

This also leads to a fantastic question to ask yourself for the new year:

What do you want to be remembered for? 

A Look at the Past, Present, and Future

2013 had its share of good times and bad times.
The good things? I met new people, went new places, started junior year of high school, and started blogging.
The bad things? I had a long sickness, found out I needed sinus surgery once again (happening in January), and started blogging! (I joke.)

But I feel like everyone is saying the same things about the year.

Let's take a different viewpoint on the final days of 2013 and the beginning of 2014.

No matter how much you hope and wish and dream; no matter how many resolutions you make and how well you keep them; there will always be both good and bad things about every year. It's part of being human. When God kicked Adam and Eve out of the garden, he told them that their life would now be much harder. *
So I am not going to promise that I will make 2014 MY year, or that it will be any better than the past years have been.

And honestly, 2013 was a great year for me anyway.

So, instead of looking at what MAY happen or what we HOPE will happen, let's talk about what we know.

2014:
It's not 2013.

There will be new fashion shows, new fashion trends, and new fashion stars, like every other year.

Barack Obama will still be president.

It will be one year closer to Christ's return.

The world will be one year older.
Seniors will be graduating.

There  will be new people to meet and new places to go.

There will be more sin, yet there will still be God's mercy.

We are now closer to 2018 than 2008.

Don't worry, we've still got some time before 2015 comes.

Really, the New Year is just another new day, with new opportunities and new mercies.

"His mercies...are new every morning." *

Have a great new year everyone,and remember who it is that gave us this year on earth! For Christians, it is more time to spread the Gospel, for unbelievers, it's another chance to turn to Christ!

Happy 2014!

*Genesis 2

*Lamentations 3:22-23

Free People

So today I stepped into free people for the first time. One word: hooked. I really loved the store. The clothes, the atmosphere, even the way they bag your purchased item.
 So, my first purchase ever from Free People was a floral stretch headband. There are many different ways to wear it, but here's a couple:

Normal over-the-hair...

Or with the hair pulled over and tucked into the headband.

It will be perfect for a quick hair fix in the summer!

Summerrrr.....


Anyway, I think Free People will soon become my new favorite store, and definitely somewhere I would buy from again. 

Christmas Gifts: The Shoes

I got the best shoes ever for Christmas. I got three pairs, and they were all very different. But I love them all in their own way! So here they are:

These brown boots are classy and go with everything! They are that perfect shade of brown, and can be worn with other browns, or black!

These Dr. Martens are the bomb! They are fun, and the heel adds a bit of femininity to the bulky shoe. These can be either dressed up or dressed down.

These Fergalicious heels are perfect for a glamorous evening! My mom said that they reminded her of one of the pairs of shoes in this blog post, so she knew I would love them!

So that's the lineup! Which one do you like best?

I'm Back!

Hey guys, I hope you all had a good break! I sure did, and I also took a few weeks off from blogging. But I'm back, just in time for the New Year!
 I have lots of purchases and gifts I received to fill you in on, as well as lots of inspiration to get you through the long winter months ahead! I might even start vlogging a bit, especially about makeup. Stay tuned for a lot more variety and exciting new material, as a begin what will be my fist full year of writing a blog! I can't wait! 

Chanel Dallas

I know this is kind of late, but I've been so busy lately. But better late than never, right?

The Trends:
loose, low ponytails
Long hemlines
High necklines
Heavy fabrics

So, I wrote a bunch of notes on the show, and it took me much longer than 15 minutes to watch it on YouTube. I had to keep pausing, rewinding, and taking screenshots
I've always been a huge fan of both native and wild west looks, and this had a good mixture of both.
I know a lot of people are saying it was very far from the typical Chanel feel. I don't think so.
It still had a very glamorous, strong, and independent feel, so the basic Chanel principles were still there. I think that its good and healthy for a label to veer of the typical path every so often. I know that when I have my own label, Lord willing, I will showcase many different themes and moods.
While I absolutely loved it, I feel like a lot of it was just a costume show. I would totally wear it if it was the norm, but I don't think people are going to make that there everyday fashion again. But I don't think Karl Lagerfield meant for it to be. If you think about it, a lot of fashion shows are like that. You have to pick and choose which individual pieces you like best.

And how about the makeup? Perfection.

And the little kids were adorable!

Now, for the negative:
I dont have much to say. The one thing I have is just preference, and does not affect the quality of the show at all.
So, I'm not a huge fan of ruffles, but there was enough of other stuff to keep me captivated. That's it.

So overall, I thought it was great. Definitely another great year for Chanel.