Another Fab Collab

Julian Louie + ALDO SS2011

The latest edition of Another Fab Collab comes a few weeks, or actually a couple months later than planned.  But what can I say, I have been swamped.  For those of you who know me, you know I am a sucker for shoes.  I first fell in love with these tribal print wedges on a new friend's blog, The View From 5ft2.  We discussed their overwhelming appeal, while editors, bloggers, and customers began to swoon over the collection.   I anxiously awaited the release and walked through ALDO's door within a few days of their arrival.  Designer Julian Louie + ALDO = stop you in the street shoes.  Literally.  Just the other day I was wearing my orange Deannas and I was stopped in the street by a man who just wanted to tell me "how amazing those shoes are."  And trust me, in NYC, it takes an exceptional shoe to grab one's attention.

Deanna

This collaboration has produced a gorgeous and unique collection of the perfect wedges to pair with a much more subtle ensemble.  I tend to wear alot of neutrals, mainly black, so Julian Louie for ALDO Deannas are a nice breath of fresh air to my neutral palette.  There isn't one pair in the collection that I wouldn't love to have.  While they are the perfect addition to your spring ensemble, these shoes are more than appropriate year round when paired with the right counterparts.  The photos and video speak for themselves.  These shoes are sensational.  The nude Sobeslavas are next on my list and at $125 a pop, pair #2 is totally doable.  A few pair are sold online, and the rest in select ALDO stores.  It would be a shame to miss out on this amazingly affordable and uber chic collection by Julian Louie for ALDO.  My hats go off to Julian Louie for perhaps my favorite fab collab to date. 

Sobeslava & Deanna

BLINDED BY THE LIGHT

3.1 Phillip Lim "Dwayne"

Please excuse my lapse in posting, but a much needed trip back to NC halted my time spent behind the computer screen.  Since moving to NYC last September, we had not been back to our roots, and I have to say it was a fantastic feeling to be on North Carolina soil.  Upon arriving in Wrightsville Beach, NC (stop #1-my hometown) we immediately threw our swimsuits on our NYC-pale bodies and ran to the beach.  Literally.  We managed to get a couple of days in the sun, unfortunately not enough to give me any color to bring back the big city.  I'm still eye-blinding white, a trait that I have yet to get used to.

3.1 Phillip Lim "Emm"

While home, I of course had to stop by shopping hotspot, Beanie + Cecil.  My old stomping ground that always manages to get me in a little trouble with my bank account.  Ooops. I blame it on the owner, Kellie, who has a fantastic eye and always fills the racks with pieces I just HAVE to HAVE! 

Perhaps it was that I hadn't seen ample sun in months, but I felt my current specs just weren't cutting it.  Behind the glass of B+C's display case, I spotted the solution to clearly, a massive problem.  Beanie was now carrying 3.1 Phillip Lim's sunglasses?  Fabulous.  Three pairs caught my eye but ultimately the Dwayne left the store, proudly sported on my face.  An essence of wayfarer, a personal classic long before it became "the cool shades to have," beautiful matte tortoise shell frames, (for a not-too-harsh-look on this pale blonde), and a metal bar at the cutout bridge that gives it an extra oomph.  Clearly a much needed accessory, I was excited that my face had been properly updated to be on point with current trends.  Don't worry New Yorkers....they ship!

3.1 Phillip Lim "Marceau"

Sunglasses are a necessary addition to your wardrobe.  Changing this facial accessory changes your entire look, which makes it vital to keep this statement piece current.  The proper pair pulls everything together.  My suggestion for this spring is undoubtedly Phillip Lim's glasses.  Each pair is uber cool, sleek, and definitely lust-worthy.  With reasonable prices, updated takes on vintage and classic looks, and the cutest damn case for your glasses to call home.... this line is out of control.  The only question left is, "how long can NYC hold onto this sunshine?"  I have new glasses to wear Mother nature, so please be kind.  

Another Reason to Hit the Gym

Dionne, Clueless Circa 1995

About this time of year, those whose gym time has been rather sporadic (try using it in a sentence, right Clueless fans?) start to increase their visits per week.  Swimsuit season is right around the corner and no one wants their first day beneath the sun to be a traumatic experience. Well this season, it isn't just the beach that has people knocking down the Y doors.  Bare midriffs are everywhere this spring.  Celebrities from Alexa Chung to Rihanna have already been seen rocking this Gwen Stefani Ab-worthy trend.  Luckily, it is just a couple inches that is meant to be revealed.  Just a peek.  If you can't quite rock the bare midriff look, pair your high-waisted pants or skirt with a cropped tee that just barely grazes the top of your waistband.

Although the thought of walking the streets of Manhattan, baring my middle makes me a little uneasy, I have to admit that I like the trend.  Fresh and new, and while a little more of your skin is exposed, if done correctly (and believe me- there is a wrong way) you achieve the sexy appeal without the slutty ambiance.  So ladies, here's to yet another reason to crank up that level on the elliptical and a few more sets of crunches to your daily routine.  

Jessica Szohr

Alexa Chung

Rihanna

Dear Michael, Volume I

Iosselliani Multi-Colored Fringed Necklace, Beanie + Cecil

Dear Michael,

Remember that little trip we took last summer?  You know, the one to Italy where we got married?  Well if you recall, there was a tiny but fabulous boutique right by the Palazzo Vecchio that I made you go in about five times.  I think each time you managed to scurry yourself across the cobblestones to that little sandwich hut that you claimed is still the best lunch spot you have ever been to.  However, with that being said, I kept returning to that spot to view and discuss a certain pair of metal fringed earrings, complete with tiny skulls.  I drooled over those earrings.  It was one of those pieces that I couldn't get out of my head.  But with a good ten European shopping days ahead of us, I opted to hold out, but still secretly wishing that these would magically appear on my ears, compliments of my new husband.  Sadly, this dream never became a reality.  

Upon returning to the states, we picked up and moved to NYC.  Being the shopping cap of the world, it was inevitable that these tinseled beauties would reappear.  You told me to get them, that I hadn't stopped thinking about them and I should just go ahead and buy them.  As sweet as this sounded, I think that it was more so based on me TALKING about them instead of thinking about them.  Perhaps a gag tactic?  Some sort of a trick no doubt.  I tried them on this time, but again, opted out due to the fact that I was job searching and perhaps these should just wait.  But let me just say that I was still secretly wanting them to appear in a bow-topped box.

Well, guess what?  You should have grabbed the earrings while you still had a chance.  Cause I still have Iosselliani on my mind, and now the stakes have gotten higher.  Love, I am craving this Multi-colored Stone Encrusted Metal Fringed Necklace.  Same designer.  More bells and whistles.  This perfectly constructed accessory is a work of art.  Gold, silver, black, and colors?  I can wear this with anything.  Tribal influences?  Don't worry hun.  In now and all over the runway for the fall.  Two seasons minimum.  Don't know where to get it?  Got it covered!  You know that fantastic boutique I worked in back on the NC coast?  Well Beanie + Cecil has picked up this line.  I've got them on speed dial, they already have my address, and the girls are ready to send it my way.  This line has followed us through the three major spots in our life.  It's like a little puppy that is following me home.  It is kinda like it is meant to be.  Don't you agree?

Love,

Hopelessly Devoted to Iosselliani

GAGA WALKS

Lady Gaga, Mugler Fall 2011

In one of the most anticipated shows of the season, Mugler's Fall 2011 collection didn't disappoint.  Complete with Rick Genest (Zombie Boy) and Lady Gaga walking some of the label's newest creations, this over-the-top cathedral staged show was outrageously fun.  The collection was filled with sleek silhouettes, but not the Jackie O type.  Sheer panels placed in the most unexpected places added the art and shock factor that we so often associate with the House of Mugler.  Courageous cutouts and insanely high heels, it is apparent why Gaga has become such an avid follower.  Feline references in the many of the looks, as well as in the mannerisms of the models, toward the latter part of the show added even more sex appeal.  One model nearly ate runway, but with a graceful hand placement beside her head, she recovered perfectly and blended well with the aura surrounding the show....madness and chaos.  

Mugler Fall 2011

At one point Gaga is seen leaning against one of the cathedral-like columns cigarette lit and creating a sultry ambiance for the models as they strutted through the elaborate stage.  It was her last look that has Gaga's ability to walk in sky-scraping platforms NOT in questions.  With at least a foot under the balls of her feet, Gaga closed the show like a pro.  Not sure that anyone but Gaga and perhaps Nicki Minaj would wear the final look's footwear, but it sure was entertaining to watch the blonde bombshell strut her stuff while sporting these space-age creations on her feet.

Rick Genest, Mugler Fall 2011

This collection and show was fantastically entertaining for starters, but the looks themselves were not second to the performance.  Although the looks weren't exactly for the everyday consumer, each piece was fun, fashion forward, and completely original.  The color palette was beautiful.  Every shade of neutral was represented and the pops of color were perfectly inserted.   A round of applause to the House of Mugler for a job well done, and good luck topping that performance next season.

Lady Gaga Final Look, Mugler Fall 2011

Mugler Fall 2011

Photos Stolen From Style.com

A Walk In Your Shoes-Lindsey Suggs

Lindsey Suggs. Age 27. Wilmington, NC. Film Crewmember/Freelance Stylist. Savoir-Flair

When Lindsey and I first met, we weren't exactly "friends at first sight." As she recalls, I was a huge bitch the night we met, summer before heading off to college.  I plead the fifth.  Regardless of our first encounter, Suggs (as we call her) and I became fantastic friends.  We were roommates twice, which really means you love someone as once can often times be one time too many.  

Creator of the blog, "Savoir-Flair," Suggs and I share a love for beauty and creativity found in the world of fashion.  Our shared obsession with leather shorts, resulted in fantastic purchases by way of 3.1 Phillip Lim and Helmut Lang.  We have that so-called, "bad influence" on each other when it comes to shopping... being able to thoroughly convince the other as to the vitality of the clothing or often times shoe in question.  Some of our most prized closet possessions can be accredited to the in-depth discussions that took place between me and this redhead bombshell. It is probably best for the bank that we are now separated by states.  Watch out NYC, when Suggs comes to visit, we may single-handedly revive the economy.  

Favorite Pair of Shoes?

"If I had to pick one favorite pair of shoes, it would have to be my coral Marc Jacobs slingback pumps that I got for my 20th birthday!  Definitely don't get to wear them enough though.  I plan to wear them with a new yellow gold, silk blouse from J. Crew with my boyfriend jeans this spring...as well as peach tops (yet to purchase) as to practice "the art of the clash."

Why?

"I've been trying to think about why I liked those shoes so much when I first saw them.  I think that they just seemed very unique to me and they were made by one of my most beloved designers at the time.  I didn't own any red shoes and just thought they would really expand my wardrobe.  They sure did expand it- into about seven more pairs of Marc Jacobs!"

How?

"I spotted this particular pair at Soho Shoes during a random shopping trip my sophomore year of college.  It just happened to be right around my birthday and my parents had been asking me what I wanted, though I had no clue yet. I fell in LOVE with that pair of shoes because of their unique color, classic silhouette, and the fact that they were MJ's.  Luckily, mom and dad caved and gave them to me before my birthday.  My chance meeting with the MJ beauties spawned not only my flurry of full-on Marc Jacobs obsession but also my part-time job at Soho Shoes for the next two years (where may more shoes were purchased)!"

Favorite Shoe Designer/Label?

"If I had to pick one designer, it would have to be Loeffler Randall.  Their uptown/downtown style is right up my alley and their shoes are so unique and stylish.  I've constantly fallen for multiple pairs, ranging from rose fold flats to brown boots.  Jessie Randall fearlessly designs and never bores me.  I do own a few pairs of Tory Burch as well, as her wedges and ballet flats tend to be practical for work or daytime events.  Of course, I wouldn't mind a Louboutin, Manolo, or Choo though..."

Most Important Factor When Purchasing A Pair of Shoes?

"The Most important factor when I buy a pair of shoes is how I feel when I put them on.  If they make me want to dance or stand up straighter, they're a good buy!  But to peak my interest, I look for the unique details that make the shoes unlike any other pair.  Interesting textures, such as suede or python, and bright colors or patterns might catch my eye at first.  Then I assess the type of heel and its height."

Runners-Up?

Yes!  I love my natural linen Loeffler Randall platforms.  They are so fun and funky and surprisingly very comfortable.  I wear them every chance I get.  I'm currently lusting after yet another summery LR pair- a nude, strappy, mesh extravaganza."

Dream Pair of Shoes?

"My dream pair of shoes would have to be Dorothy's ruby slippers.  "The Wizard of Oz" is my favorite movie after all.  I'll settle for a pair of ruby red Loubs though."

Shoes from the Past?

I wish I still had my favorite old pair of canvas wedges from Banana republic.  They were the perfect heel height and fit so well.  Sadly, my dog Penny ate them when she was a puppy...along with about 12 other pairs.  I have yet to find the perfect replacement.  Never ever want to wear Jellys again though.  Sick nasty."

Shoe Philosophy?

"I apply this philosophy to shoes and pants: When you find a great pair that you love and that fits you well, get it!  Finding the combination of fit and adoration isn't as easy as you might think.  A nice store's shoe stock will swap out very quickly and it's hard to find that perfect pair again.  I passed up a gorgeous leopard print pump over the summer and could have kicked myself with a pointy toe stiletto when I had a near flawless outfit save for the lack of that pump.  I scoured Wilmington for a suitable substitute but ultimately settled for a leopard print scarf and taupe bootie instead.  Key word: 'settled.'"

Photos Provided by Lindsey Suggs

Follow Lindsey via Twitter

A Night For the Stars... and Fabulous Gowns

The Oscars is a chance to praise and applaud the fabulous work of the elite..... the fashion designers.  Valentino must have agreed, as he personally escorted one of his signature red looks down the runway.  Watching Valentino showcase his gown on host Anne Hathaway, and giving us a few words of wisdom was an added highlight of the red carpet special.  Such an honor to be on the arm of a fashion legend, Anne should have considered keeping the Valentino gown on at least for her first moments hosting on stage.  It was definitely her best look of the night.

  There were a few pieces from MBFW that I was shocked didn't make their debut tonight, but the choices were perfection.   High necklines, pastels and purple hues, and sleek silhouettes were trending down the red carpet.  Very few flaws (cough! cough! Melissa Leo), I was pleasantly pleased with nearly every stunning look that made its way to the 83rd annual Academy Awards.  Take a look at GZ's Red Carpet Oscars Picks.

TOP FIVE 

Mila Kunis is Elie Saab

Mila gets my top pick again! I have to admit that I am completely obsessed with this gown.  I am dying to wear this dress to.... ANYWHERE!  Love this look, sexy but sweet.

Cate Blanchett in Givenchy Haute Couture

Always so fashion-forward.  Loving the up-close shots of the detail in this amazing Givenchy gown.

Anne Hathaway in Valentino

Why couldn't she have just left this look on throughout the night?  Anne saved her best for....first.

Michelle Williams in Chanel Haute Couture

A huge step up from her flower child look at the Golden Globes in this sleek little number.

Scarlett Johansson in Dolce & Gabbana

Perfectly on trend in gorgeous lace...and in the perfect hue.

RUNNERS-UP

Although not in the top 5, these looks are more than worthy of a little blog-cred.

Hailee Steinfeld in Marchesa

Perfectly age appropriate, this young starlett looks like a princess.

Amy Adams in L'Wren Scott

Stunning gown, however, I really wanted her to lose the necklace and tie her hair back.  If these little flaws had been curtailed, she would have undoubtedly been a top pick.  

Gwyneth Paltrow in Calvin Klein 

Shimmering and sleek, Gywneth gives us another look causing every woman to envy her rocking bod.

Natalie Portman in Rodarte

Much better shade, and sans flower.  Thank you.  This is the way you rock the red carpet pregs.

Hillary Swank in Gucci Premiere Couture

I am partial to feathers, but this ombre ostrich is simply gorg.

Halle Berry in Marchesa

I love this gown, sexy, flirty, and a fabulous color for Halle, however something about it feels just off enough to not keep her in my top picks.

Mandy Moore in Monique Lhuillier

Metallic nude with a bright red lip, Mandy scored big fashion points with this shimmering choice.

SANTA FE, ARE YOU THERE?

Proenza Schouler Fall 2011

Please excuse my "Newsies" tribute, but when I read the words Santa Fe, I am immediately reverted back to childhood memories of watching Jack Kelly (Christian Bale) singing, longing for the western city.  Inspired by a trip to Santa Fe, Jack McCoullough and Lazaro Hernandez incorporated Native American references into yet another lust-worthy collection at Proenza Schouler.  Although this was only one of many Fall 2011 collections possessing a tribal influence, PS didn't disappear into the crowds.  Their pixelated prints were original and eye-catching. In a wide array of mustards, reds, and saturated neutrals, every slouchy pant, tailored jacket, cozy knit, and updated pencil is fantastically fresh.  

I find myself frustrated with my complete infatuation with this collection, but perhaps the ever so steep price tags of PS will only continue my motivation down a successful career path.  Although these creations have so far only been viewed on a 5'11'' uber thin model figure, it is obvious that each sleek silhouette will be equally as flattering on the bodies of those of us with a slightly more typical physique.  Even the southwestern velvet prints are incredibly chic, with cuts that don't add the extra bulk of say the braided velvets at Carlos Miele (not a personal FW fav).  Beautiful styling, wearable creations, and heart skips a beat designs....Proenza, you had me a first look.  

Above Photos Stolen From Style.com

BRIGHT COLORS GONE BAD

Although my day to day color palette typical consists of an array of blacks, grays, and navys, I am excited for the bright colors of spring 2011.  With a fresh new coating of snow on my doorstep, I am even more ready for chirping birds and flowing spring looks. This spring it is all about color.  Pairing these Kool-Aid colored shades with an equally but contrasting hue is totally on trend.  Red, tangerine, turquoise, or magenta... throw on a few together and you are right on trend with spring's bright colorblocking phenomenon.  Shades you think typically clash are now the hottest new color duo for spring.  We love it! 

Jil Sander, Proenza Schouler, Prabal Gurung, Z Spoke.

Photo Stolen From Refinery29

As excited as I am for spring, and as eager as we all are to put away our bulky sweaters and snowboots, it is important to use the latest trends in an appropriate manner. 1980's orange puffer jacket and fuschia, raw silk trousers do not equal fashion forward colorblocking.  If only someone had given this woman the memo.

 Believe it or not....Photo Taken as Above Enters the Carolina Herrera Show Last Week

ROCKER CHIC BADGLEY MISCHKA

A fantastic seat (third row) at Badgley Mischka was vital to getting these up close pics of the beauty and styling details that made the show a huge success.  The models' hairstyles were complete with bedazzled parts.  Some loved, some hated, and while looking over the shoulder of the Fug Girl next to me, some texted that they "weren't sure how they felt about it."  To me it was the perfect finishing touch on an exquisite collection that screamed beauty and elegance, and perhaps a hint of goth.

Each look was styled to perfection with every detail considered...all the way down to the gold and silver half-moon nails, topped off with a sheer overlay and a heavy hand of red glitter.   A dark palette with large pops of pinks and magentas (a trend throughout NYFW), the styling was a precise balancing act between hard and soft. Silk draping, colorful leather gloves, and ornate embellishments were seen alongside knits, fur, and luxurious Badgley Mischka handbags.  Black veils were added to a handful of looks, pumping up the volume on the rocker chic beauties that strutted down the runway.  Even the background provided spectators with a hint of the nitty gritty, giving the appearance that the uber fierce models were walking through an alley way only illuminating by the golden light of the street lamps.  Any number of these looks could easily be seen on the likes of wickedly sweet Kelly Osbourne, who sat front row between Kellie Pickler and Rumor Willis.

Badgley Mischka's overall presentation was a front runner in the collections that I had the opportunity to witness.  The pieces spoke for themselves, but were amplified by the fantastic production, styling, and beauty that surrounded the ten minutes of show time.  The tenth look, a jewel-encrusted ombre top tucked into a high-waisted black skirt was by far one of my favs.  The addition of metallic gloves and a miniature top hat cocked to the side (complete with the signature black veil) gave this look the ultimate sex appeal. 

Hands down, THIS was a show.  A complete production with every detail examined to the fullest.  My soon to be purchased miniature top hat off to designers Mark Badgley and James Mischka for a job well done.  

Final Look

EAT YOUR HEART OUT MIDDLETON

I understand that an English designer is in the forefront to design Middleton's gown into royalty, but with the stunning pieces that I saw at Monique Lhuillier, it is a shame that this designer isn't in the running for the job.  Every piece fit for a princess, I was beyond wowed at the gowns toward the latter part of the runway show.  It is the only show in which my camera battery decided to bail. Such a shame as I sat third row and was ready to snap some elegant pics.  Words can't describe the beauty of these garments in the flesh.  Seeing them in person takes my appreciation of Lhuillier's works of art to a whole other level.  

Photo Stolen From Style.com

Heaps of lace, volumes of chiffon, and elegant plays on texture were abound throughout the dark palette of Monique's Fall 2011 collection.  Not always a fan of the one-shouldered look, I am surprised at how infatuated I became with her one-shouldered black gown, encompassed in sheer black tulle and encrusted with gold embellishments.   Red carpet worthy no doubt, this mermaid shaped number caused quite a raucous as far as an increased level of camera flashes go.  This amazing creation was in good company with a sea of equally ambitious and perfectly constructed pieces assuredly worthy of the red carpet or an event fit for a queen.   

Photos Above Stolen From Style.com

Aggravated with forgetting to charge my camera, I attempted to snap a few with the iPhone.  The results weren't fantastic, but one blurry finale pic was "good enough" to display and I was able to snap a couple of pics of the more than pleased front row made up of Brittany Snow, Julia Stiles, and Alexandra Richards...and of course took advantage of the photo opp of the fabulous Miss J. Alexander.

Monique Lhuillier Fall 2011 Finale

Brittany Snow, Julia Stiles, & Alexandra Richards 

Front Row at Monique Lhuillier

Miss J. Alexander Post Monique Lhuillier