Now that our turkeys have been carved, stuffing has been served, and stomachs have been filled, it’s finally time to start thinking about (and shopping for!) the upcoming holiday season. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanza, or anything in between, finding the perfect party dress is essential. Since I know how difficult and frustrating it can be to create the perfect holiday ensemble, I figured I would spare you the agony of scrolling through page after page of options and present you with a few of my new found favorites.
The first dress is the perfect winter LBD made by Juicy Couture. Its mini strapless silhouette is simple and classic, while the draped velvet skirt adds a subtly luxurious touch. I imagine this dress being perfect for a dinner or cocktail party when paired with classic pumps, a red clutch, and the fluffiest fur coat you can find. The result is a sexy and ridiculously comfortable look that you will be able to wear for many winters to come.
The embroidered polka dot sleeveless dress made by Marc Jacobs is a serious must-have for this season. Its scalloped lace skirt and polka dotted bodice come together to create the perfect feminine fifties-inspired dress. Though its quite pricey, it is very high quality and the camel color makes it timeless. Try wearing this dress with a knee-length peacoat, shimmery tights and nude or black heels. If your style is edgy rather than super feminine, a leather jacket and smoky eye can easily toughen it up.
Milly’s Juliet cocktail dress is a perfect mixture of my favorite recent trends- camel, ruffles, and sequins. The mixture of textures is unmatched by any dress I’ve seen, and the colors will complement any skin tone. This dress looks best when worn with bare legs and some shiny patent booties. Top it off with a head full of cascading curls and bold, bright red lips.
By Ali Antonucci
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
'Tis the Season
Labels:
cocktail dress,
holiday dresses,
juicy couture,
Marc Jacobs,
milly,
winter fashion,
women's fashion
J'aime Mon Carre

I love my scarf, I love your scarf, and I certainly love luxury brand Hermés, two London pop-up stores dedicated to its iconic scarves. The first has already opened and sadly closed after three days of joy at the East London Rochelle School of art, Shoreditch. The second will thankfully be open until the 9th of December in West London’s Ledbury road. Both stores offer shoppers expert advice on how to style their Hermés scarves, and just in case you can't take it all in, due to over excitement, there are photographers in-store to record your look. Chances are it may very well be everything you could ever dream of in silk, colour prints and it well be. Whilst sadly you may not wake up on Christmas morning and find one propped under your Christmas tree, after a trip to these stores they are bound to be featured on many wish lists.
Text Katriona Flynn
Labels:
colour,
hermes,
pop up store,
print,
scarfs
Monday, November 29, 2010
Carolyn Murphy: Best Friend and Muse

Carolyn Murphy amazes me. She has been around since I started obsessing over fashion magazines when I was in Junior High. Eight years have gone by and she is even more beautiful now than she was then.
She almost always appears in the first few pages of a magazine.
Murphy's been modeling for top names such as Estee Lauder, Jantzen, and Versace.
Text Alexandra Faye
She is a muse. She's a natural. No matter how much or how little makeup is on her, she looks remarkable. Carolyn Murphy isn't perfect, and that is what makes her stand out. Her face is not symmetrical and she is not stick thin. She has broken the rules of the model stereotype. Murphy could be your best friend, the girl next door, just one of the guys, and the most beautiful girl in the room all wrapped into one. She is the ultimate package.
She may not be everywhere, like Caroline Trentini and Raquel Zimmerman, but she is an exquisite model. Carolyn Murphy is the kind of model you get excited to see because you do not see her on every other page. It is a treat to see her.
Labels:
caroline trentini,
carolyn murphy,
estee lauder,
jantzen,
models,
raquel zimmerman,
Versace
The Good, the Bad, and the Burlesque

I'm a big fan of so-bad-it's-good movies, especially ones involving pop stars and divas trying their hand at acting. Showgirls, Crossroads, even the abominable trash heap that was Mariah Carey's Glitter: what they lack in theatrical credibility and decent scripts, they make up for in sheer camp and hilariously quotable lines.
This is why I'll be heading out to see Burlesque as soon as possible. Judging from the glitzy, cheesy trailer, it's going to be more of a hot mess than an Academy Award blitz, but you can't knock a potential so-bad-it's-good movie until you try it. If nothing else, I'll at least get some decent makeup tricks from Christina Aguilera!
Text Molly O'Brien
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Can't Live Without My Radio
Hopefully you didn't blow all your cash on Black Friday treats -- if you've got $1.99 left in the bank account, why don't you snag TuneIn Radio, an app that lets you listen to 40,000 different radio stations on your iPod, iPad, or iWhatever. (Blackberries and Androids too!) Everything from NPR to random European electro-trance to DJs spinning on their college stations are available. After getting TuneIn, you're officially no longer allowed to bemoan the fact that you "haven't listened to anything new lately." Download and crank it up.Text Molly O'Brien
Friday, November 26, 2010
Cashmere: Bringing families together since the 18th century

Ah, holiday visits with the family; time for eating until you puke and getting a little tipsy with Grandma. Many of us will spend a significant amount of time deciding what to pack, in an attempt to appear that we are not just directionless twenty-somethings with a minor hang-over. There's this strange inherent need, during the holidays, to ensure our families of our legitimacy as productive members of society. The best way to do this, you ask? Cashmere.
Studies show Cashmere has long been associated with people who have their shit together. Though my black Armani Exchange sweater was found at Goodwill, my mother will be impressed that I had the forethought to invest in a "smart" piece that will last for ages. (Never mind my closet full of six inch heels.) My father will remark at it's "cuddliness" and remind me once again how grateful he is that my high-school days of hippie mu-mus and blue hair have ceased. Cashmere is also a great conversation topic for Grandmothers and when they learn of my new interest in the stuff they may remember a bunch of great pieces they have hidden away in their closets, just waiting for my gravy-fied little fingers. All of the merriment that ensues directly leads to father slipping me a twenty for avoiding political conversation!
And so, my friends, you now see the uniting powers of our favorite fabric species. This season, pick up some Cashmere for yourself, and a scarf or two for the fam!
Text Hannah Morris
Labels:
armani exchange,
cashmere,
family,
holidays
Thursday, November 25, 2010
The classic camel coat
It's that time of year again! With the bitter chill of winter upon us, we mourn the loss of the suns hot rays by wearing those mundane coats. We're all guilty. I know you own that dark (usually black) colored coat that sits in the closet until you feel that big gust of wind telling us it's time to bundle up. Luckily, the runways this season are saving us from the bitterness, as camel colored coats are a must have this season. Just like the color black, camel goes with everything you wear, not to mention it adds a little flair to you day. From blonde, caramel, and burnt toffee - there are a plethora of colors to choose from for any occasion, whether you're heading to work or going out to get the groceries. As a timeless piece, designers like Alexander Wang and Chloe have featured camel coats on their runway, but you don't have to spend an arm and a leg - H&M and the Gap have wonderful camel coats just under $70. Throw one on with long legged trousers and flats to keep it professional or you could make a statement by wearing skinny jeans and black knee high boots. No matter how you dress it, the camel coat is the hottest trend for the season and definitely on top of my Christmas list.Text Jessica Moy
Labels:
Alexander Wang,
camel coats,
chloe,
HM,
the Gap
Monday, November 22, 2010
The Natural Look
In January, I dyed my hair a lighter blonde for the first time. Many people asked me why I dyed my hair because they said it was blonde enough before. That isn't exactly the best thing to hear for someone who just did something to their hair that they can't change overnight. I honestly feel as if I were treated more like a dumb blonde, and with less respect than I've ever been treated in my life. In the past couple of months, when I've looked through many magazines, I've noticed that more women are growing out their lighter color. They are embracing their natural color again. From top model, Caroline Trentini, in the Express ads to Valentina Zeliaeva (a model who will appear young forever) in the Ralph Lauren to designer, Lauren Conrad, to singing sensation Fergie, to actresses Drew Barrymore and Jessica Biel. They all look absolutely amazing.
This movement to "The Natural Look" is empowering to all women. Women need to know they are naturally beautiful. They need to know they can look more beautiful, more real, more professional, more confident in their own skin, their own hair color.
P.S. This may not be true for every woman, but most women are meant to look the way they were created – with a little boost from mascara and bronzer. Also, I started transitioning my hair back to its original color, and I get more compliments on my hair color now than the ten months I had my hair the lightest blonde I could.
Text Alexandra Faye
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Necessary Knits = CHAOS Knits
It’s true that nothing is better than being completely cozy on the most frigid winter days. Most seasons, it’s hard to achieve that state of warmth without a ridiculous amount of layering or constantly keeping on a jacket. Luckily for us, this season, we’re being directed towards a trend that, if introduced just a few years ago, could quite possibly be scoffed at. I am referring the oversized, heavenly soft, and impeccably chic “grandma” knits. Cozy knits look pretty much exactly how you’re imagining them, and therein lay their arm. The perfect knit looks as if it came directly from an elderly lady’s closet- and feels as though it has been worn for years. It can be made of wool, cashmere, or anything in between, depending on your preference of material. It can be personalized with a pattern, or kept neutral in a solid, wintery tone such as crimson or oatmeal. A chunky knit accessory this season is the most bold item you can buy. Though it is possible to head to the nearest H&M and purchase a mile long scarf that will ball up and look raggy in about a week, the ones that stand out among the rest are those that are truly special. On that same note, I also won’t recommend splurging on a high-end designer’s version, either. Lucky for you, CHAOS has its own knit line! I highly suggest that you check out CHAOS Knits : trust me, it’s worth it. Finding that perfect, completely unique scarf, hat, or headband is just a few clicks away. You’ll also get to skip sifting through chaotic racks or visiting several stores before striking gold. The great thing about CHAOS Knits is that they can be reused again in the spring. Many spring RTW collections paired pastel shorts or sheer skirts with chunky knit accessories; so you will definitely get what you pay for after just a few weeks of wear.
CHAOS Knits
E-Boutique
Text Ali Antonucci
CHAOS Knits
E-Boutique
Text Ali Antonucci
Labels:
Chaos Knits,
fall winter 2010,
knit hats,
knit scarves,
knitwear,
winter trends,
women's fashion
Friday, November 19, 2010
Bewitched by Nikolet Kasmer
There’s no denying the industry touts a pretty face and rail-thin frame as what makes a model. But every so often, a devilish charm and particular aloofness can also skyrocket her straight to the top of the beauteous elite.
Although too soon to tell, the success of Hungarian model Nikolet Kasmer looks rather concrete. Attribute it to her pouty lips and flowing hair if you will, but Kasmer’s mysterious stare and European features makes for a deviant-type look all her own.
Originally from Eger, Hungary, this 5’10” blue-eyed beauty is represented by Art Models in New York. With a penchant for all things Steven Meisel, Kasmer is a true lover of the industry. This sultry stunner was also blessed with the ability to portray an intricate mix of angst and beauty in her pictures.
Think we’re being a tad too precocious? Take a look at Kasmer for yourself and see if you aren’t entranced by this Hungarian beauty’s exquisite exterior.
Although too soon to tell, the success of Hungarian model Nikolet Kasmer looks rather concrete. Attribute it to her pouty lips and flowing hair if you will, but Kasmer’s mysterious stare and European features makes for a deviant-type look all her own.
Originally from Eger, Hungary, this 5’10” blue-eyed beauty is represented by Art Models in New York. With a penchant for all things Steven Meisel, Kasmer is a true lover of the industry. This sultry stunner was also blessed with the ability to portray an intricate mix of angst and beauty in her pictures.
Think we’re being a tad too precocious? Take a look at Kasmer for yourself and see if you aren’t entranced by this Hungarian beauty’s exquisite exterior.
Labels:
city models,
fashion models,
Hungary,
Nikolet Kasmer
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Wrapped in plastic - it's fantastic
If you've ever seen the first Toy Story movie, you'll remember Andy's nasty neighbor Sid who took toys and reconstructed them to resemble scary robotic creatures. Well, Margaux Lange has done the same thing, only - not so scary. Using parts of Barbie doll's, Margaux re-constructs evey part of the iconic toy - head to toe - into beautiful statement pieces. She hand crafts one of a kind necklaces, brooches, and bracelets - selling anywhere from $130-$220. Margaux's Plastic Body Series art is getting international acclaim! One of my favorite pieces is the Smiley Necklace made from 29 Barbie mouths, the colors and style's are AMAZING! Her line also includes a circular pin made out of Barbie arms and earrings made out of Barbie ears, not to mention a ring made out of Ken's abs...yes, you read that correctly - Ken's six pack on a ring, how could it be better? To some, the jewelry may sound a little creepy, which is understandable - wearing body parts around your own. However, when you see the fantastic work Margaux has done, you'd be surprised. Margaux has been published in many books and have been displayed in a number of art galleries. Her unique pieces of Barbie jewelry are quirky and cool, but still have a high end feel to it - which is exactly why I LOVE it!! Text Jessica Moy
Labels:
Barbie jewelry,
bracelets,
brooches,
Margaux Lange,
necklaces
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Bobbi Brown's Makeup Manual
In an attempt to master the art of barely there makeup, I decided to spend $30 at Borders on Bobbi Brown’s Makeup Manual. If there’s anyone who knows how to create the perfect natural makeup look, it’s definitely Bobbi Brown. She’s been in the business of beauty for longer than almost all of her competitors, but she has yet to be outshined by any of them. I figured that this all inclusive how-to guide would help me develop the basic skills of makeup application as well as present me with some day to night transitional looks.
Labels:
Beauty,
bobbi brown,
less makeup,
makeup manual,
natural makeup
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
The epitome of 'fresh': Tiana Tolstoi
You know a model is truly up-and-coming when the few tidbits found on the web about her are elusive and scarce. Yet, this fresh-faced beauty from Egypt is worth a mention (maybe even two) because of an undeniable charm, evident in her pictures.Tiana Tolsti was discovered in Paris by an agent from New Madison. While those may be the only concrete facts known right now about Tolstoi , the industry's knack for idolizing ethnic beauties such as this, guarantees it's only matter of time until this ethereal face has a Wikipedia page all her own.
The Only Way is Vintage

There were no promises broken, or lies told, when the good people of Clerkenwell Vintage Fashion Fair guaranteed a beautiful selection of vintage clothes, shoes, handbags, hats, gloves, textiles & jewellery this Sunday. Housing all these wonderful pieces and their fabulous collectors was the equally glorious Old Finsbury Town Hall. The charm of this setting and all of its 1885 Art Noveau charm was enough alone to justify any trek through London Town on the greyest Sunday of the wonderful winter season. Given that the vintage artifacts were as impressive as their surroundings decorative features, made for a lovely and very atmospheric glimpse at the less commercial and genuinely honest side of vintage fashions, and its lovers. Think shift dresses, floral prints, hate it or love it fur fur fur, pea collars, lace trims and golden treasure. It did indeed feel only what I can imagine opening a treasure chest in a very old attic might have felt like. For those who fancied a cuppa and also suffered sweet tooth syndrome the tea rooms were the ultimate school hall experience. For those who may have over indulged at the cake counter the alterations room was the next stop. With the most charming hairdressing set up just on the edge of the hallway the up do's being created and cemented with hairspray indeed ensured that the starlets and gentlemen at the Clerkenwell Vintage Fair received the ultimate experience. This was the last of these fairs before the end of the year, it certainly leaves something to look forward to in the new year.
Text Katriona Flynn
Text Katriona Flynn
Labels:
architecture,
clothes,
jewellery,
vintage
Monday, November 15, 2010
A Ph.D. in Hipster Studies?
The rise of the contemporary hipster - think of the typical American Apparel-bedecked, large eyeglasses-wearing, unknown electro band-listening man or woman who either lives in Williamsburg or pretends to - has officially entered the realm of the academic.After a successful symposium held in collaboration with The New School in NYC, n+1 magazine is releasing an essay collection in which intellectuals write hipster cultural criticism; there's a transcript of the actual symposium itself, plus a great article about a recent clash between hipsters and Hasidic Jews in Brooklyn. Mark Greif, founder of n+1 magazine, also has a great essay in a recent New York magazine. Worth checking out if you're of the mind that hipsterdom goes deeper than ironic sweaters and Animal Collective albums.
Text Molly O'Brien
Labels:
American Apparel,
Brooklyn,
Mark Greif,
Williamsburg,
writing
Boots Are A Woman's Best Friend
In the Mid West, the weather has more mood swings then a woman pregnant for the first time. One day you will be wearing short sleeves and shorts. The next day you could be wearing layers under a winter coat with jeans and leather boots. Either ways, the leaves on the trees have completely changed colors and every day is considered visually pleasing.After this weekend, I have a feeling the winter-coat-weather is going to stick. You could walk through a little boutique or down the sidewalk and see women in an assortment of different boots. Tall, tan leather boots have become in-style recently in the Mid West. Though about a year ago in New York City, my best friend attending NYU started wearing them. That’s how it works here.
The best part about boots is that there isn’t just one type. Uggs are perfect for the cozy look with long flannel top, just make sure you are wearing them for function and not to make a fashion statement. Black Leather or suede flat boots are perfect for that classic jeans and all black-everything-else look. The black buckled heel-boots that just cover the ankle is perfect with a dress or a skirt. Last, but, not least, you can’t rule out the leather heel-boots that rise up to your knees. These are perfect for when your trying to add a little sophisticated flair to you're look.
Text Alexandra Faye
Photo by Lauren Boismier
Labels:
ankle boots,
boot trend,
boots,
fall 2010 fashion,
fall boots,
fall winter 2010,
knee high boots,
over the knee boots,
winter fashion,
winter trends,
winter wardrobe
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Extreme Gourmet
One of the best chefs in the world, Ferran Adrià, is closing shop at his renowned restaurant in Spain, El Bulli. Any Top Chef acolyte or casual pursuer of Food Network techniques would drool at the crazy concoctions Adrià has created. In a marathon 30-course meal at El Bulli, one can expect anything from sculptural corn bread and reconstituted, spherical olives to marinated rose petals with artichoke foam. Jay McInerney recently wrote an article for Vanity Fair about his dining experience; read it here and let your imagination run wild at the possibilities for Adrià's future experiments in molecular gastronomy after El Bulli closes next summer.Text Molly O'Brien
Labels:
El Bulli,
Ferran Adria,
gourmet,
restaurant,
Spain,
Top Chef,
vanity fair
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
J.Crew RTW S2011
Though I’ve been less than pleased with J.Crew’s sudden spike in prices for trendy items that can be purchased for about $15 at Forever21, I am reluctantly starting to realize that the brand does in fact have high fashion potential. In the past, I’ve scoffed at the lace camisole being sold for over $300 and the sequin sweatpants for $600, but as I flipped through the Spring 2011 look book, I found myself swooning. The only thing wrong with this collection is that it doesn’t hit stores for another few months.The vision: Jenna Lyons has always tried to incorporate her own personal style into the vision she has for the J.Crew collections. This season, she focused on a creative play on minimalism, a stark contrast with the billions of brooches presented on the fall collection. Lyons creates looks that may seem mundane if she followed suit with many other designers and used a strictly neutral palette. However, in typical J.Crew fashion, the line is filled with bright colors and dazzling patterns. With several different shades of hot pink, bright orange, burnt red, sea foam green, and cyan blue, it’s hard to imagine why the industry is so dead set on such a basic color palette.
The outcome: Bravo! Each look successfully masters the art of pairing several pieces of color together without looking insane. One look had three different pieces all in different shades of hot pink, while another played with color and texture using chambray, cashmere, and sequins. There honestly isn’t one look within this collection that isn’t completely wearable, whether you’re going to class, to work, or an after hours party. Hopefully, J.Crew’s RTW line will cause its customers to begin experimenting a lot more than they have in the past. After all, these looks will be sold as deconstructed individual pieces, so it will be difficult not to play around a bit and develop new, but equally fun outfits that fit a myriad of different styles.
Standout pieces: It’s hard to say which pieces deserve the standout title, because there are just so many of them. However, after careful consideration, I’d like to nominate the magenta paper bag shorts, the white and gold striped sweater, the pleated khaki skirt, and the sequined maxi skirt used in the final look. Though I love the way each piece was used in the collection (especially the skirt being paired with a chambray button up and leather waist belt), I can clearly envision at least 3 different uses for each one- which makes them well worth their estimated prices.
I’m still not ready to start adding J.Crew to my list of favorite high-end designers, but this collection has definitely stolen the prize for most anticipated spring collection. Perhaps this is because it is so on point with my own individual style, but I can totally see mothers and daughters alike purchasing (dare I say) the same pieces and using them in completely different ways.
By Ali Antonucci
Labels:
bright colors,
j.crew,
mixing prints,
neutral clothes,
spring 2011 rtw,
texture,
women's fashion
Monday, November 8, 2010
SUNDAY KNIT ROAST
Sunday Knit Roast as opposed to a knitted Sunday Roast is not only a more appetizing but relaxing way to spend a winter Sunday. The imaginative folk of I Knit London have knitted up the idea of unwinding in a cosy London pub on the last Sunday of each month, with a Roast dinner and a pair of knitting needles. (Unless of course crochet is more to your taste in which case you will have a sole crochet needle) All welcome, just turn up with yarn, needles and perhaps an appetite for all the trimmings.Last Sunday of every month from 2pm, The Crown and Two Chairmen, Dean Street. Text Katriona Flynn
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Return of La Vie Bohème
Some people just haven't recovered after the hit musical Rent closed last year, ending a run of 5,124 performances. For these people, there will be no more singing "Today 4 U" mournfully in Lower East Side alleyways, longing for Roger and Mimi and company to return - Rent will be revived Off-Broadway next year. It'll feature all new cast members and the original director, Michael Greif, will be returning. Though cast luminaries like Taye Diggs and Idina Menzel will surely be missed, there's nothing wrong with injecting a little youth and vigor into the production.All the die-hard fans with "No Day But Today" tattoos and original Rent t-shirts won't want to miss the new production, scheduled to run at New World Stages next June after the Tony Awards.
Text Molly O'Brien
Labels:
Broadway,
Idina Menzel,
Musicals,
Rent,
Taye Diggs
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Designer 3-D glasses
The future is here!! With the ever so popular 3-D television and movies taking over our households and movie theater's, it's no wonder some fashion labels are marketing their very own 3-D glasses. Gucci is teaming up with Oakley to make their own designer 3-D specs. To most, this sounds a little silly, especially if you know they are ONLY intended for movie theater use. If you have $225 to purchase the glasses - then why not? Armani is following with the exact same trend, only it's a little more affordable - costing around $58. We'll see if these 3-D designer glasses sell in December when they are released. Do you think they are a new trend? Will you purchase these specs, just in time for Christmas?
Text Jessica Moy
Text Jessica Moy
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Wonderful Waves
Effortless waves are a signature for super-cool celebs like Kate Hudson and Blake Lively, and have been coveted by beauty gurus for years. That ‘I just woke up but still look great’ look is unbelievably sexy, yet unattainable for so many women. I’m a straight-haired girl myself, so the prospect of getting beachy waves has always been more of a myth than a reality for me. I know that there are a lot of girls out there who feel my pain, who have tried everything to try to get the look that seems to come so easily to others. Whether they’ve gone to sleep with a head full of ridiculous braids, attempted to master the art of pin curling, purchased the industry’s best curling iron, or tried plain old Velcro rollers, none of these will produce that perfectly imperfect look. If you can relate to any (or every) one of these scenarios, then I come bearing great news. There’s a new iron that’s description and reviews claim it to be a miracle worker. It’s called the RSession tapered curling iron, and it’s available for just $50. What makes this iron so different from all the others, you ask? Well, it’s all in the way it’s designed. First of all, it’s marketed as a 4-in-1 iron, so it’s designed to be a multipurpose tool. You can create the look you desire depending on how much hair you use, how tightly you wrap your hair around the iron, and the way in which you hold the styling tool. Its tapered barrel ensures perfect curls with plenty of volume and bounce. It takes a little bit of practice to get it to look just right, but there are plenty of customer reviews and YouTube video tutorials to help you out. After a few practice rounds, you’ll find yourself looking in the mirror admiring the hairstyle you’ve been dreaming about for oh so long.
By Ali Antonucci
By Ali Antonucci
Labels:
Beauty,
curling iron,
hair tools,
hair trends,
RSession,
wavy hair,
women's fashion
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
the Line of Beauty
The eagerly awaited new exhibition on route for Londons Somerset House certainly does uphold their continuous commitment. Showcasing the world’s most celebrated creative talents across fashion, art and design. As renowned fashion illustrator René Gruau moves in on the spotlight of fellow exhibitor of the moment at Somerset House Mathew Williamson, Gruau proves that there is more to the world fashion than beautiful clothes. A selection of sketches are presented which celebrate the life and work of René Gruau work (1909-2004), exhibiting some of the most iconic fashion images of the 20th century. The wondrous illustrations are full ofthe splendor of the the unruled and unimaginable world of fashion illustration. Gruau creates the unimagined experience through the beauty of the line and its way of representing fabric, line and silhouette is only what one could have imagined is the ultimate look of these clothes. With groundbreaking artworks including original illustrations of selection of Dior Haute Couture dresses, this exhibition will hopefully prove that not all clothes need to be worn to be adored, happening from the 10th of November.By Katriona Flynn
Labels:
Christian Dior,
fashion,
illustrations,
Rene Gruau
The New Black
The color black has been every woman’s best friend for as long as the fashion industry has been around. Designers are well aware of this, and have made sure to include plenty of black in every collection they produce. Black matches practically everything, it can easily be layered, it’s unbelievably slimming, and it never goes out of style. I don’t think I’ve ever suspected another color of attempting to steal black’s spotlight… until now.
Milan Fashion Week, New York, and Paris we saw look after look showcasing the color camel and it’s become clear that camel is trying hard to be the new black. To be honest, I expected a lot more resistance from consumers, but everyone seems to be embracing this foreign concept rather than rallying against it. In its defense, camel is an amazing alternative to its darker competitor. For starters, it’s just as versatile, if not more so. A pair of camel trousers is just as essential as a pair of black skinny jeans. The camel trench has almost entirely replaced the black peacoat, and nude heels are definitely popping up a lot more than basic black on the red carpets. Camel bags are appropriate for every occasion, and have become instant classics. What I love about camel is that it is a lot more neutral than black. It looks good with every skin tone, while black often seems too harsh on pale individuals and doesn’t always mesh well with alternative hair colors. Black is also a lot edgier than camel- it gives of a much darker vibe, while camel offers just as big of a statement without the gothic undertones. I’m not so sure that camel will wipe black out of clothing’s existence entirely, but I do think that everyone who is dedicated to their wardrobe should consider investing in a bunch of different neutral pieces. My suggestions are to buy an article from every department in a camel shade- a pair of pants, a skirt, a pair of city shorts, a winter coat, several tops, boots, heels, flats, and even a handbag. That might seem a bit excessive, but since the color is now so popular, it is available everywhere from Fendi to Forever21.
By Ali Antonucci
Milan Fashion Week, New York, and Paris we saw look after look showcasing the color camel and it’s become clear that camel is trying hard to be the new black. To be honest, I expected a lot more resistance from consumers, but everyone seems to be embracing this foreign concept rather than rallying against it. In its defense, camel is an amazing alternative to its darker competitor. For starters, it’s just as versatile, if not more so. A pair of camel trousers is just as essential as a pair of black skinny jeans. The camel trench has almost entirely replaced the black peacoat, and nude heels are definitely popping up a lot more than basic black on the red carpets. Camel bags are appropriate for every occasion, and have become instant classics. What I love about camel is that it is a lot more neutral than black. It looks good with every skin tone, while black often seems too harsh on pale individuals and doesn’t always mesh well with alternative hair colors. Black is also a lot edgier than camel- it gives of a much darker vibe, while camel offers just as big of a statement without the gothic undertones. I’m not so sure that camel will wipe black out of clothing’s existence entirely, but I do think that everyone who is dedicated to their wardrobe should consider investing in a bunch of different neutral pieces. My suggestions are to buy an article from every department in a camel shade- a pair of pants, a skirt, a pair of city shorts, a winter coat, several tops, boots, heels, flats, and even a handbag. That might seem a bit excessive, but since the color is now so popular, it is available everywhere from Fendi to Forever21.
By Ali Antonucci
Labels:
camel colour,
fall 2010 fashion,
new trends,
women's fashion
Monday, November 1, 2010
Ready, Set, Write
For those who have an inner Jonathan Franzen or Joyce Carol Oates, as well as a set of speedy typing fingers, National Novel Writing Month (more colloquially known as NaNoWriMo) begins on November 1st. It's a 30-day challenge: write a 175-page, 50,000-word novel in a month. Sounds nuts? It is. But out of 165,000 participants in last year's NaNoWriMo challenge, over 30,000 people managed to churn out enough pages. Impressive!The goal, urges the NaNoWriMo about page, is not a fully fleshed-out masterpiece à la Gustave Flaubert, but simply the process of "valuing enthusiasm and perseverance over painstaking craft." Writers upload their pieces to the official site and, once the robotic word counters do their thing, get the satisfaction of knowing they've written a work as long as The Old Man and The Sea, if not necessarily as well-crafted. Want in? Register on the NaNoWriMo site.
Text Molly O'Brien
Labels:
competition,
jonathan franzen,
joyce carol oates,
NaNoWriMo,
National Novel Writing Month,
writing
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)






