Chouion

Oh my, what a lovely coat! May I take your photo?

2009-11-11T19:06:00.009+11:00

A while ago the creative minds at Refinery 29 put together a How-To-Get-Shot-By-The-Sartorialist flow diagram to get your pic snapped by the reknown style stalker. That feat is about to get a whole lot easier! Scott Schuman aka the Sartorialist just blogged about his recent collaboration with Burberry for their new website Art of the Trench. To celebrate the history and heritage of the classic brand, Schuman walked the fashionable fields in search of crisp Burberry trench coat-clad characters. So we all know what to do now - grab those trenches and get going!

Art of the Trench

Louis Vuitton - Lifesaver

2009-11-06T07:01:00.010+11:00

As a child, I admit, I was always obsessed with cute things. Especially stationary and for some reason, band aids. As a result, I perused the isles of many a cute stationary store in the hopes of finding more goodies to add to my treasured collection. My obsession was such that when the time came that I actually needed to use one, I would cast a longing glance at my cute band aid selection but the costs would outweigh the benefits and I would instead suffice with a standard Band-Aid band aid.

Now there is more reason to be sparing about the use of band aids (or unsparing in some people's case) for Louis Vuitton have created a limited edition first aid kit in celebration of the 150th anniversary of the Red Cross. Aluminum cases filled with all your immediate first-aid needs are set snug in leather pockets forming a red cross with red and silver coloured cases. Enveloped in Louis Vuitton's signature monogram trunk with gold hardware to boot, the front is splashed with the Red Cross logo - a symbol of hope and reassurance should anyone be in less than tip top condition.

hypebeast

This is not the first of Louis Vuitton's collaborative side-step from your standard luxury baggage and clothing range, what with skateboards and lawn bowls, who knows who (or what) will be graced with Louis' lovable label next!

Time to hit the books

2009-11-03T12:01:00.020+11:00

Ah books; my escape, my confidant, my teacher. How I adore thee. But what usually begins as a relationship of adoration and care more often than not turns into one of frustration and despair come exam time. I often find myself desperately seeking refuge in a Mediterranean cook book, a witty novel or a meticulous biography - anything to distract me from the harsh, neglected words of a textbook. Sigh, if only my love of theory was akin to that of fashion.

During one particularly fierce bout of enmity with Strategic Marketing, my weary eyes were delighted to glimpse a preview of Maison Martin Margiela's newest self-named book. The elusive Belgian designer, as mysterious as his clothes are creative, takes the world on a behind-the-scenes journey of his modest to monumental steadily growing empire. Providing insights of his inspirations and achievements and documenting myriad milestones in his career, this book overflows with lovely images of iconic pieces, memorabilia and backstage beauties. Bound in a rustic muslin covering, the embroidered logo is a tribute to tribute to Margiela's legacy, two clean slates between which a decade of abstract design and radical fashion await.

My time is up, I must now go and seek peace with my neglected textbooks in the hopes that they will be kind enough to see me through finals!

Images from Wallpaper*

Longing fur winter...

2009-11-01T23:54:00.005+11:00

Right now I am dreaming of cool, crisp winds, softly drifting snowflakes, warm woollen mittens and steaming hot chocolate. That's right - I am officially over summer (and it hasn't really even begun yet). Peeling sunburn, colonies of freckles, ridiculously warm breezes, sweating at just the thought of movement - it's all a bit too much for my delicate, highly heat-sensitive skin. On the bright side, I have just under one month to wait until I can once again embrace winter wonderland, reunite with my beloved winter wardrobe and snuggle up in front of a crackling fireplace somewhere in the northern hemisphere. I admit, my premature disdain for summer this year has quite possibly been induced by the myriad editorials recently prowling the magazine scene featuring one of winter's finest - fur.

Skye Stracke for Marie Claire Italy, photographed by Jock Sturges, styled by Monika Kropfitsch

tfs

Raquel Zimmermann for Vogue Paris, photographed by Inez van Lamsweerde & Vinoodh Matadin, styled by Emmanuelle Alt

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Constance Jablonski for Vogue Russia, photographed by KT Auleta, styled by Samuel Drira

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Alla Kostromicheva for Numéro #108 photographed by Sebastian Kim

tfs

Alas, my obsession with the spring summer collections just passed has been short-lived. But rest assured upon my return I suspect I shall be hit with an overwhelming desire for iced peach teas and slouchy tees and ready for a drop of summer - flip flops and tans aside.

When I grow up...

2009-10-26T18:03:00.019+11:00

http://ryanmcginley.com/kids

Say 'cheese'! Styled by Panos Yiapanis and named 'Kids - We Don't Need No Education', Ryan McGinley snaps up happy little vegemites for the fall/winter edition of Purple magazine. Dressed in fall/winter 09-10 collection's best, McGinley perfectly portrays what kids inevitably do when faced with a camera - pull faces funny and strike little poses. Tweed, boots and statement shoulders come complete with child-inspired head gear, Louis Vuitton bunny ears and boys clad in heels and dresses. These kids are only too eager to fill the shoes of muses past - move over Baptiste!

Garance j'aDoré

2009-10-22T16:00:00.026+11:00

I have always loved Garance Doré's illustration posts. Simple yet elegant they are lovely to look at. And these are no exception. Documenting Garance's fashion week frolic with Carine Roitfeld (with whom Garance will soon be collaborating with at Vogue Paris), these images include illustrations, photos, fashion week memorabilia, typewrite font AND hand writing. There is just something so refreshing about hand written notes. I guess in today's society there isn't really a need for writing things by hand anymore, what with blackberrys and the ever shrinking size of laptops, it's just easier to type! I digress. What I mean to say is: I love the design of these images; simple and chic with a lovely personal touch. J'adore.

garance doré

Gucci ♥ iPhone

2009-10-21T19:18:00.013+11:00

Following the recent surge of social media paving a new way for fashion to mingle with the masses, Gucci is launching their iPhone application today. WWD write that the application will feature a 24hour music channel, playlists, a turntable designed by musical artist/DJ Mark Ronson to mix tracks as well as a restaurant and hotel guide. On the fashion side of things, the application will also regularly update Gucci news and events, showcase the newest collections and feature a GPS Gucci locator - all the better to find your nearest store with.

The release is set to conincide with the GUCCI ICON-TEMPORARY project, a travelling pop up sneaker store opening October 24 at 42 Crosby Street, NewYork, featuring Ronson's collaborative efforts with Gucci. Joining Chanel and Ralph Lauren in the ranks of mobile media, Gucci's application is more 'lifestyle' based and is sure to provide many a train-rides entertainment. Bets on who will be next to board the band wagon, anyone?

wwd

The Business of Fashion Film

2009-10-20T08:16:00.012+11:00

community.livejournal.com/foto_decadent
Killer Vogue by Steven Meisel for Vogue Italia Septermber 2005

Since the beginning the early 19th centruy, film has been one of the most powerful and influential mediums through which people can portray to the world their story creations. Stimulating both visual and auditory senses (as of 1926), film is engaging and viewers revel in an enthralling plot and enchanting soundtrack. It makes sense then, that the world of fashion, subject predominantly to print and online media, should utilise such an entertaining channel to communicate with, heighten the experience of and help imprint the themes of their respective collections on the fashion savvy. And what better way to show off your creative flare to the people that care than the runway?

The Business of Fashion have just posted their Top 10 Fashion Films of the Season, collating the most "innovative and captivating" fashion films screened on the runway. From visual poetry to quirky animation, creative collaborations to state-of-the-art masterpieces, this season's showcases have it all. So sit back, relax and enjoy the show!

Mannequin

2009-10-18T19:07:00.009+11:00

tfs

Movimento Surrealista starring Ikeliene Stange & Baptiste Giabiconi shot by Karl Lagerfeld for Elle Italia September 2009

♬
'Cause you're not a man
You're just a mannequin
I wish you could feel
That my love is real
But you're not a man

I wish I could just turn you on
put a battery in and make you talk
Even pull a string
For you to say anything

But with you there is no guarantee
Only expired warranty
A bunch of broken parts
And I can't seem to find your heart

You're just a toy
Could you ever be a real, real boy
And understand
But you're not a man
♬

Katy Perry - Mannequin

Barbie ♥ Louboutin

2009-10-17T07:06:00.007+11:00

What do Barbie and Christian Louboutin share? Apart from their love for fashion, of course - they share a soft spot in every girl's heart. Could there be a collaboration of two girlier pleasures? I think not. Mattel has signed Louboutin on for a yearlong project in which he will design some fabulous items for Barbie's ever-expanding wardrobe, create a pair of life size Barbie-pink Louboutin shoes (first seen on the runway at Barbie's birthday show during NYFW in February) and fashion a diary documenting Barbie and Louboutin dabbling in his favourite past times (not quite sure where the robbery scene falls into here but my guess is that they just wanted to see Barbie in a sleek, skin tight cat-woman jumpsuit). A string of themed Barbies - including burglary Barbie - will be trickling out throughout the year each with their own Barbie-sized Louboutin heels and packaged in Louboutin shoe boxes. Now why didn't they make these sorts of things when I was five-years-old?

wwd

Killer Fashion

2009-10-16T18:17:00.006+11:00

Noot Seear, prepping for her role as Heidi (the vampire seductress) in the upcoming Twilight movie New Moon, runs into the Law & Order gang for a crash course on the small screen. This fabulous shoot for the November issue of Harper's Bazaar brings together two of my favorite subjects: Law & Order and fashion! It also neatly summarises the episode formula for Law & Order at its best:

1. Heinous crime - this brings a whole new meaning to killer heels.

2. Dramatic capture - so we bought the same shoes! Is that a crime?!

3. Cool interrogation - do I look like someone who would steal shoes?

4. Sentence negotiation - Thank God they let me bring my own orange clothes!

5. I solemly swear... - on the fashion bible, what else?

6. Courtroom confessions - I'm telling you I bought them!

7. Innocent until proven guilty - the best way to win the case? Dress to impress!

8. Walk to freedom - oh please, no photos. Oh well, alright then, go on! I do look fabulous!

community.livejournal.com/fashin

Lily Dazzles in Dazed & Confused

2009-10-15T20:29:00.001+11:00

tfs

Lily Cole steals the limelight in the November issue of Dazed and Confused: The Imaginary Issue. Photographed by Martina Hoogland Ivanow and styled by Karen Langley, this fantasy shoot provides the backdrop for Cole and co-star Andrew Garfield to interview each other about their roles in The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus. Check out the interview online here and catch Cole's debut on the 29th October!

Fangtastic Mrs Wildfox

2009-10-07T07:26:00.001+11:00

Wildfox Couture Fall 09

Blast from the past: Washed out pastels, playful prints and cute slogans adorn Wildfox Couture's Fall 2009 collection. The seamless combination of LA street casual meets vintage rock 'n roll scream young and fun. Add some school-inspired accessories and plastic fangs to feel eternally youthful!

On other foxy features: watch out for the animated version of Fantastic Mr. Fox coming to Australia on 10th Janurary 2010. Starring the voices of George Cloony, Meryl Streep, Jason Schwartzman and Bill Murray directed by Wes Anderson, this film is sure to take us on a charming trip down memory lane.

Lady of Leisure

2009-10-05T23:56:00.002+11:00

tfs

Australian Catherine McNeil shot by Greg Kadel for Vogue Italia October.
McNeil looks fiercely elegant with her elaborate up-do and sophisticated glamour.

I Am Eloise

2009-10-04T21:08:00.001+11:00

the new york observer

Growing up as a child, and admittedly even now, I sometimes wish for the stylish yet simple lifestyle of Eloise, six-year-old resident of the Plaza Hotel, complete with her very own nanny. Many an adventure is had within the decadent walls of the hotel where Eloise makes friends with neighbours and hotel staff alike. Each episode ensures a good dose of plotting and scheming where mayhem and mischief is sure to occur. Now the general public are invited to join the Eloise experience with the Plaza Hotel's newly renovated Deluxe Rose Suites!

At rates starting from $895USD per night, it must a pretty good Super Duper Sundae! Oh what I wouldn't give to live like Eloise for a day!

Topshop ♥ Australia

2009-10-02T21:48:00.001+10:00

incu & the vine

If you haven't already done your spring cleaning, now is the time because Topshop is on its way to the shores of Australia! After what seems like an absurdly long time, the wait is almost over and as of October 29, Incu will be providing Topshop and Topman goodies to all the Fashionistas and Fashionistos of Sydney. Their Paddington shop is currently being renovated to prepare for the arrival of the much coveted stock so make some room in those wardrobes people and I'll see you at the cash register!

In other Topshop news, a few of their newest holiday collection pieces have begun circulating the net and will be available online as of next month. With a few references to the runway, their new pieces include long sleeve minis, studs, pearls and embellishments galore! What more could you ask for really?

the cut

Paris Fashion Week SS 2010

2009-10-02T07:24:00.001+10:00

Alexander McQueen

'At the centre of the island, near the sea, was a plain, said to be the most beautiful and fertile of all plains...' - translation of Plato's description of the lost city of Atlantis.

Plato's Atlantis - The theme of McQueen's Spring Summer collection depicts the lost ancient city of incredible riches, superior intelligence and the beauty of perfection. Accordingly, there is no other way to describe McQueen's exquisite work except: otherworldly. A mish mash of nature versus technology saw a plethora of python patterns, strong silhouettes and mini metallics. Stud-like protrusions were embedded on models' temples and noses to create an alien-esque appearance complete with skyward hair seemingly insusceptible to gravity. And the shoes! Gigantic claw-like platforms teetering on pin thin heels took the breath away from many with their beautiful embellishments and sheer size! Though extremely beautiful to look at, I'm not sure how practical they would be - this is fashion for the fearless! Definitely my favourite show this year, McQueen has created his own version of fantasy, myth and legend with this awe-striking collection. Click here to witness the magic.

Milan Fashion Week SS10

2009-09-30T07:11:00.001+10:00

Prada

Sheer and chic outfits, marvellous matte textures and luscious, ruby-red lips = Prada SS10. The ever prevalent short suit combination and one-piece body con added the finishing touches to a wonderful array of moody greys and elegantly embellished pieces. Soft ruffles and pouffes added a girly touch to the down-to-business collection.

Moschino Cheap and Chic

Playful colours and cute accents made up Rosella Jardini's young and fun Moschino Cheap and Chic collection. Channeling the 60s, there were bright colours, ruffled collars, floral patterns and super short hemlines. And how adorable are the ribboned two-tone shoes?

Moschino

Cheap and Chic's older sister Moschino paved the way for a heavier spring collection with sheer stockings and cherry prints, crystals and tassels, and plenty of gold accents. Keeping with the mini theme, skirts were both fitting and voluminous with cute frills and fluffy layers. A range of skirt suits was also on show from casual to corporate to cocktail.

Gucci

Frida Giannini displayed a futuristic collection of crisscross cut-outs, high-waisted stretch leggings, a modern take on the ikat print and holey jackets. Mesh lining and light jackets contributed to the sporty glam look while the crocodile skin jacket added a bit of edge.

Emporio Armani

Emporio Armani created a sexy yet sensible collection of work and play appropriate spring pieces. Suits were given a modern twist with structured shoulders and petal pleating as well as sparkles and suede. The second half of the collection saw took a turn towards the colourful with bright orange, coral and turquoise numbers in cutout swimsuits and beach dresses.

Emilio Pucci

Pucci's signature patterns paired with aquatic prints saw the debut of Peter Dundas' creative talent. Hitting the nail on the head, Dundas produced a lovely array of light billowing dresses and skin tight minis in a comforting palette of dusty pinks, lemon yellows and ocean blues. Plunging necklines and creative swimwear were also on show.

Where the Wild Things Are ♥ Opening Ceremony

2009-09-24T23:45:00.009+10:00

News just in! Counting down to the release of a beloved childhood story-turned-movie, Where the Wild Things Are, Opening Ceremony in collaboration with director Spike Jonze will be launching a limited edition collection of adorable play suits and faux fur pieces for the young at heart! If you're on the prowl for some furry finds check out their fluffy vests, mohair coats and fuzzy fleeces available in stores and online from September 28. Pamela Love, gaining inspiration from the movie will also be designing brass and silver accessories to complete the collection. So don your Max Suits as the furry fantasy unfolds on the big screen on December 3.

Emma Watson @ Burberry Prorsum

2009-09-23T15:45:00.003+10:00

tfs

Emma looking stunning in aforementioned Burberry outfit!

London Fashion Week SS10

2009-09-19T23:27:00.004+10:00

Burberry Prorsum

It was pastel paradise at Burberry Prorsum with mini dresses and trenches alike adorned with embelishments and belts. Draped and knotted skirts were paired with equally elaborate tops and trenches were reinvented with ruched sleeves, metallics and military inspiration. I was particularly smitten with the embellished metallic pieces towards the end and am currently lusting for the gold number Emma Watson wore in the front row.

Peter Pilotto

Peter Pilotto created a whispy collection of washed out hues in many a varying print. Pale blue, yellow, green and grey presented the background for structured skirts, strong shoulders and more generally season-appropriate short pieces. Suit jackets and lightweight knits gave a formal yet informal feel paired with super-short high-waisted shorts and waist-clinching belts.

Paul Smith

Paul Smith showed a combination of boy meets girl design with impeccable suit jackets and ties with bright colours and cute shorts. Patterns from checks to leopard to tribal donned knits, skirts, tops and dresses ensuring a very interesting show. Accessories included giant weave necklaces and beaded hair pieces and shoes were kept light and breezy with strappy sandals.

Christopher Kane

Light weigh checks dominated Christopher Kane's runway with thigh-high split skirts and sheer tops. Embroidered florals stood out from the standard print pattern in pastel pinks and yellows. Fly away hair gave the sense that models were walking through a gentle breeze as their whispy attire shimmied down the runway.

Josh Goot

Josh Goot presented a very colour-central, body conscious collection featuring geometric shapes with bright splashes of colour. Minis were the go from long tees to short frocks in spots, stripes, solids and gradients. Models wore pointed elevated pumps and occasionally sunglasses, completing the perfect summer stoll downtown look.

Vivenne Westwood Red Label

Many a cute prop was taken for a walk down the runway to accompany Vivenne Westwood's Red Label spring collection; among them straw umbrellas, goat horns, toy frogs, a strand of barley and a real puppy! The clothes themselves were Westwood at her best with whimsical patterns in every colour under the sun, an array of spring jackets, print tees and straw hats.

Charles Anaste

It was a bag of mixed balls at Charles Anaste with many a tip-of-the-hat to past season collections. While strong solid colours remained constant, skirts varied from tulip to tulle, hoop to hanging all accompanied by Anaste's signature sky-high platforms. Pouffy dresses and textured overalls also made an appearance adding to an overall mix and match medley of clothes.

NYFW SS10 Day Seven

2009-09-18T22:45:00.001+10:00

Anna Sui

A 60s circus welcomed audiences to Anna Sui’s spring summer collection. Ring leader jackets and lace-up boots preceded an assortment of prints, stripes and vibrant hues. Strong shoulders made their presence known as did knits, turtlenecks and peter pan collars. As always, Anna’s creations have a strong girly cuteness to them and I can imagine many a day spent in her paisley print pinafores.

3.1 Phillip Lim

Crop tops were in at Phillip Lim, with a combination of short shirts and jackets in muted colours dominating the runway. Basic outfits were jazzed up with glittering accessories paraded in platform peep-toe booties. The ever-prevalent sequin came in the form of tops and dresses adding to an overall very chic, very wearable collection.

NYFW SS10 Day Six

2009-09-18T07:27:00.002+10:00

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Checks, stripes and African-inspired prints made for a fun-filled collection in many a sassy shade. Models donned mini versions of Louis Vuitton's bunny ears - no doubt induced by Marc's creative work there. Other fun accessories included an assortment of tinted shades, studded bags, bulky bangles and funky sneakers. These bright and boisterous pieces will definietly bring out the bambino in all of us this spring!

Max Azria

It was a minimalistic canvas upon which Max Azria seemed to base his spring summer creations. A sea of neutrals in flowy frames were accented with strategic cut outs and other fine details while basic dresses and suits suprised with delicate embellishments. It's a marvel to see what even a small difference can make to a simple outfit!

NYFW SS10 Day Five

2009-09-16T12:41:00.001+10:00

Marc Jacobs

A circus of pale-faced performers pranced down the runway to showcase Marc's spring collection. Many a wacky and wonderful outfit ensued: High fuffle necks with short runched skirts, dewy pastel silk dresses seemingly constructed from teardrops and a barely there translucent dress which gave the impression that it had materialised from the beginnings of a sketch. The playful cutouts and embelished bodices added some glitz to the mix and I can't wait to see some closeups of the handbags! Snakeskin, spots, straps and stings - oh Marc, stop giving! This was one show I really didn't want to end!

Zac Posen

It was a kaleidoscope of colour at Zac Posen's early morning show. Zac took a trip down memory lane, reviving the 60s shift dress with striking shades and avant-garde accessories and fanning the 80s flare with furry accompaniments. Patterns were plentiful with everything from geometric blocks to horizontal stripes, swirly prints to flashy flowers. Zac produced a collection of fun, bright pieces sure to turn heads at any party!

Donna Karan

A flurry of whispy neutrals and structual solids floated down the runway at Donna Karan's show. Simple dresses were upgraded with undulating details while silk swirled freely from beneath drawstring ties. Donna gave the body con look a tiny tweak, further enhancing the waistline with dainty belts. Strappy sandals and slick side-part bobs completed the look radiating a sophisticated and refined aura.

NYFW SS10 Day Four

2009-09-15T00:12:00.002+10:00

Diane von Furstenberg

DVF's collection was a breath of fresh air from the play-it-safe designs overcrowding the runway these past few days. Brightly saturated jungle prints and tribal designs came in the form of relaxed dresses along with a few goddless-like mesh drapes. Models were adorned with clusters of golden leaves and together with their crimped hair gave off a fierce, unkept aura. The sharp hues and daring prints really made this show stand out from the crowd.

Derek Lam

Derek flaunted a colourful collection mixing pastels with brights, solids with prints and a scattering of stars and florals. Style varied as much as hue with structured skirts, high-waisted bottoms and loose-fitting dresses. I especially love the caramel suede+brilliant cerulean blue combination. The colour contrast is so striking!

DKNY

DKNY showcased a blossom of florals, girly pink hues and neutrals perfectly reminiscent of spring. Bike shorts peeped out from under shorts and dresses alike and the standard suit got a major re-working with variations on suit jacket+short options, cuffed relaxed pants and jacket length. The dizzying array of floral patterns ranged from petite buds to artfully blended flower prints to roughly scrawled blooms. Make an effort to stop and smell the roses this season!

Herve Leger

Ah, the much coveted Herve Leger! The classic body-con bondage dress was upgraded and re-vamped and Max experimented with a few different fabrics including denim, silk and sequins. The resulting dresses provided pieces perfect for both day and night. Max strayed from the skin-tight mini for a few dresses with perky skirts and cut-out one-pieces.

NYFW SS10 Day Three

2009-09-14T09:40:00.001+10:00

Alexander Wang

Always one to keep tabs on, A. Wang churned out a hip high school evoking show complete with letter jackets and knee-high socks. Contrary to his previous slouchy collections, this season he experimented with boxy structures and the ever-popular statement shoulder to produce a collection reminiscent of my mum's old high school photos - only one hundred times cooler! Super shoulder pads, careful cut-outs, artfully draped wrap dresses and feathered pieces sum up my favourite looks from Wang this spring.

Karen Walker

It was all about pattern for Karen Walker's show; spots, stripes, florals, prints - you name it! Revolving around a nautical theme, Karen's relaxed pieces conjure up images of sea-bound sweethearts set out to sail. The classic blue and white blend was offset with splashes of bright red and yellow, imparting a distinct spring feel. Definitely investment- piece material!

Richard Chai Love

Richard Chai's recession-friendly Love line dished out slouchy slacks, breezy blazers and a few lust-worthy shiny staples. I did indeed love quite a number of his pieces, namely the casual-fit blazers and the sparkling shorts and vest. The rest of the collection was a mixture of tasteful tom-boy and gentle girl-next-door with more two-piece pant and top combinations as well as an array of dark print silk dresses.

Lacoste

Prestine tennis dresses, perfectly pleated skirts and a pair of nautical-clad twins strutted their stuff down the Lacoste runway. Fully embracing the coming of summer - and with it summer sports - models donned sunsmart sweatbands and sunglasses, hoods and hats. Christophe has created sporty yet sleek pieces in simple refreshing colours of lemon yellow and brilliant blue hues. Every season I debate about whether or not I should take up tennis just so I can look fabulous in one of Christophe's outfits!

NYFS SS10 Day Two

2009-09-13T23:35:00.001+10:00

Day Two highlights:

Erin Wasson x RVCA

From body con jumpsuits to over sized tanks and mini dresses, Erin Wasson's collection emanated cool right down to the white sock+hiking boot combination. In addition to these casual get-ups, she also designed a few vintage-inspired looks as well as some long, drapey outerwear. All-in-all, quintessentially Wasson-esque. And look! It's our very own Rachel Rutt!

Jason Wu

Wu dabbled in a number of fabrics and textures for his SS line-up including silk, tweed, faille and feathers. What ensued were 38 pretty pieces, the majority of which were delightful mini dresses in a range of different shapes and styles. In stark contrast to Wasson's casual cool collection, Wu wove together a masterpiece of quirky cocktail creations perfect for a balmy spring night out.

Charlotte Ronson

A multitude of different styles were seen in Charlotte Ronson's collection this season; laid-back casual, pleasantly preppy, and sleek sophistication all in one! I'm not too sure about the sheer bunched-knee leggings (casual+sophistication=?), but I did enjoy the array of spring jackets from light trenches to blazers to military-style bombers. Who says spring has to be sleeveless?

Cynthia Rowley

Structured shorts, blurred florals and pops of colour dominated Cynthia Rowland's show. (The pastel coloured floral dress is slightly reminiscent of last seasons Moschino Cheap and Chick floral dress, no? They have a similar pattern but minus the beautiful silver detailing). I'm a big fan of bows so props for the drapey bow ties and big bow ribbon peep toes! Overall a very cute collection.

Preen

A smorgasbord of textures at Preen with wispy silks, delicate lace, crisp cotton and a material that resembled sea coral. Surprisingly, the coral-like pieces are the ones I liked the most, the dresses appearing to be more closely related to architecture than something to be worn on the body. Fluffy shoulder pads and angular cut-out dresses came in at a close second. In between the monochonic tones, blush and cream hues added a more soft, girly touch to the collection.

NYFW SS10 Day One

2009-09-13T00:19:00.001+10:00

Finally NY Fashion Week is here again! The weather is getting warmer here so I'm excited to see the new collections and hopefully find some nice picks for my summer wardrobe! I'm also curious to see whether the GFC has had an impact on the designs this year. I predict a back-to-basic approach in response to the current state of the economy. Only time will tell!

Here is a round-up of Day One highlights:

BCBG Max Azaria

What a bold reworking of the classic animal print in bright coral colours. It seems people are still eager to board the Hervé Legér train reflected by these tight bodycon bandage mini dresses. I'm liking the different asymmetrical cuts of the dresses as well as the sheer black underlining - the perfect dress for a night out on the town!

Wayne

Wayne's collection was more neutral in colour - prodiminantly beige, grey, black and white. But what they lacked in colour variation they made up with in style! Short and sexy cut-out dresses, simple white suits and casual grey get-ups signals prehaps the most wearable collection for day one.

Ports 1961

This is probably my favorite collection for today! More girly and romantic than Wayne, Tia has created some gorgeous pieces with oversized jersey tees, metallic ruched cocktail dresses and luxe leather dresses paired with long gloves. There are a lot of different textures in this collection, from jersey to silk, leather to chiffon.

Jen Kao

Dusty pink, granite grey and more sharp white suits adorn Jen Kao's latest collection! Minis galore for relatively new-comer Jen from loose fitting flowy pieces to curve defining bustier dresses. A selection of sheer tops and cut-outs add a bit of sexiness to the otherwise tame collection.

Helmut Lang

Denim revival! I was wondering when this trend would make a comeback! Nicole and Michael have taken it to the extreme by creating whole outfits fashioned from denim. I also love the layered look under softly structured blazers and it seems harem pants are in for another round this season.

Grand Stam

2009-09-12T08:09:00.003+10:00

wwd

WWD's latest Beauty Biz Issue features the stunningly beautiful Canadian born model Jessica Stam. Documenting her rise to fame in the modelling world since 2001, the article delves into her achievements (15th highest paid model in 2007), her beauty regime ("clean and basic") and her hobbies outside of modelling (cooking, flying and charity work). Stam looks scorching in the accompanying photographs!

The September Issue

2009-08-19T07:36:00.003+10:00

Last night I went to an advanced screening of the highly anticipated (on my behalf anyway) September Issue. What ensued was approx. 120 mins of pure Wintour goodness. So she was a little blunt and harsh sometimes, but to me thats all apart of the Anna appeal! If she wasn't able to make the hard decisions, Vogue would not be where it is today. Plus, despite her often short remarks, viewers discover that she has a sense of humour, and is even a little sarcastic at times too!

But poor Grace Coddington, the movie basically revolved around Grace creeping into the photo board room like a naughty child at school bracing herself to see which one of her precious photos had been cut from the magazine this time. Grace to me seems like a very lovable person, almost like the quintessential quirky Aunt. She, like Anna, is very passionate about her work and through her often dejected comments and dry humour you get a sense of how proud she is of her work (and so she should be!). The audience empathises with her when it is discovered that many a beloved shot is omitted from the issue. I must admit, I loved quite a few of the photos that were cut myself! But Anna did redeem herself slightly at the end of the movie by saying what a genius Grace was and how no one can do what she does when it comes to fashion photography. Throughout the course of the movie they both talked about how they understand each other (having started on the same day at Vogue some 21 years ago) and know how to deal with one another.

Again Anna's philanthropic deeds were highlighted with a Thakoon subplot where he works with Gap in redesigning the classic white shirt - all made possible by Anna of course. I guess her work with upcoming designers is a major part of what makes her so influential. Viewers are reinforced with the sense that everyone in the fashion industry looks to Anna on all things fashion. Whether that be the latest trends in clothing or designers.

All in all it was a very intriguing movie. I loved watching Grace's photo shoots and the end product of her masterful creations. Viewers glimpsed the day to day activities of the bustling glossy industry and were left to make their own mind's up about Anna's personality and actions. Personally, I think she is a style genius, having said that though, she is also a business woman and does what she needs to do in order to sell magazines.

Sartorialist Scouted

2009-07-14T09:20:00.004+10:00

refinery 29

One of every fashionista's dreams? - to be shot by the Sartorialist of course! With this simple step-by-step flow diagram, concocted by the lovely people at Refinery 29, now all are privvy to the secrets of getting shot by snap-happy Scott! So don those tailored suits and scarves, grab a prop and head for Soho - double points if you make it onto the website too!