Get Kinky This Summer: Mini Crimps Are In

Need a new summer do' but just don't know what? It's time to get kinky with an ultra retro and fun hairstyle; mini-crimped hair. Donned in many SS' 11 editorial lookbooks and seen on the runway at the Luca Luca show, mini-crimps are perfect summer. Whether you prefer your hair up or down the look instantly adds style and a youthful, playfulness. The best part? Most hair crimpers add kinks to your mane in just under 30 minutes and lasts for several days, making getting ready that much easier. This simple look will give you that perfect boho-chic look that is very trendy this season.

Check out an affordable and highly rated mini-crimper here!

Text Lauryn Stone

Source(s): Refinery29

Sweet Cheeks: Kate Moss Bares Her Bum For Vogue Brasil

Kate Moss is known for anything but being modest; she is edgy, sexy, raw, and a dominating force in the fashion world. Having walked for almost every designer, acted as the face of an innumerable amount of campaigns, and solidified herself as a muse to many industry members, Moss has once again captured every one's attention with her latest cover.

Shot by Mario Testino, Kate Bares all on the cover of Vogue Brasil's May '11 issue. Sporting smokey eyes, a pink pout, and gold cuffs Kate poses completely nude for the cover shot. While the ladies and south-of-the border are hidden, her bum is out for the whole world to marvel at. Some complain that cover is much too racy. However, this is Vogue Brasil where beauty is all about the bare body. And also, let's face it, this wouldn't be a true Kate Moss cover if it wasn't slightly controversial.

Text Lauryn Stone

Source(s):

Hermès Gets Personal

The beloved french fashion house will celebrate its Madison Avenue face-lift this Wednesday, May 4th with an opportunity for customers to choose from a selection of iconic prints and have their own messages or monograms embroidered on the silk. This is part of the "Life in Silk" line that has been available in the Paris flagship since September. Choose from the Hermès standards of flouncing paisleys, smart checks, or a very relevant animal print, but make sure you do quickly--in true Hermès fashion the treasures are only available to few for a short time!

Text Hannah Morris

Source: Vogue

Photo: Hermes

Three Retro-Inspired Swimsuits That Are High On Style

If you're not the itsy-bitsy, barely-there-bikini-wearing kind, then you're in luck. There are plenty of stylish options that you can pick from, like these three from Samantha Pleet, Rodarte for Opening Ceremony, and Lonely Hearts. The Samantha Pleet Tide Suit features a high-waisted bottom and a classic brassier top in an interesting modern print. This Rodarte for Opening Ceremony halter one-piece is adorable with its nostalgic floral print. And this cut-out purple number from Lonely Hearts is so cute that you'd want to wear it with high-wasted shorts or skirt so you can sport it out on the streets as well.

Text Kristina Bravo

Sources: Need Supply, Opening Ceremony, Lonely Hearts

The New Force Behind Balmain: Olivier Rousteing

Behind "What what will happen to Galliano?" another big fashion question faces us; who will replace Christoph Decarnin at Balmain? No need to linger around for the answer, it was confirmed this week that Olivier Rousteing will be new Creative Director at Balmain.

The French designer has been a part of the Balmain team since 2009 as the head of the womenswear studio and before that, he designed for the men's and womenswear collection at Roberto Cavalli for five years. Known for his extremely good looks (no joke, this guy is a good looking cat) and edgy design aesthetic it was no surprise that the fashion house promoted from within their own family. Sources report that the house expects great things from the young designer and that he was a shoe-in for the position.

Rousteing's skills will be put to the test this upcoming fall during the Spring '12 shows and hopefully he will be able to capture the bad ass essence of Balmain the same way Decarnin did.

Text Lauryn Stone

Source(s): Style.com, WWD.com

An Odd Future: OFWGKTA

Tyler, The Creator - Yonkers from Dauphín on Vimeo.

It would be foolish to take OFWGKTA, or Odd Future at face value. A quick glance might conjure assumptions ranging anywhere from “goofy skater kids” to “reckless vagabonds”, however, this 10 member deep alternative hip-hop group prides itself in its distinct ability to shock and destroy.

These dunk-sporting renegades have raised the temperature in LA hip-hop scene and are quickly becoming a 10 man force to be reckoned with. Led by spirited lead rapper Tyler the Creator, the group is made up of Earl Sweatshirt, Domo, Genesis, Mike G, Frank Ocean, Super 3, Syd tha Kyd, Left Brain and Hodgy Beats.

Urban Dictionary cites OFWGKTA as “a group of satanic skateboarding rapist rappers”, and a quick perusal of the groups music videos suggests that this rather unorthodox definition is well, true. With no shortage of “F*** You’s”, drug innuendos, on-camera vomiting, and of course, skateboards, Odd Future understands the efficiency of shock value and capitalizes on it.

Label Watch: Toga, Not Just For Ancient Roman Plays and Frat Parties Anymore

Tragedy may have hit Japan hard last March, but that isn't stopping the spirited creative talents of the country's fashion industry to show off their latest A/W 2011 collections. The Japan Fashion Week website is archiving the designers' collections that were exhibited through follow-up presentations and press days. One of the most notable is Tokyo-based label Toga, spearheaded by self-taught designer Yasuko Furuta. The collection is a mixture of an avant-guard aesthetic and urban design, dark with a touch of whimsy. Support creativity and check out the other amazing collections from Japan Fashion Week here!

Text Kristina Bravo

Sources: Style File and Jfw.jp

Neon Nails To Match Your Neon Leotard: American Apparel Nail Polish

Hitting stores just yesterday, American Apparel has released a limited edition collection of neon-hued nail polish. Using their long lasting and thick coated formula the new hues are the perfect accent for any summer get'up. The collection features red, green, orange, yellow, and purple- all in neon shades of course. And, just as quirky as their apparel, each color is simply titled as it looks; "Neon Green," "Neon Yellow," etc. However, if you want to get your fingers on one of these new colors you better do it fast. It is rumoured that there will only be 2000 bottles of each shade available in-store only and they may have already sold out.

Text Lauryn Stone

Source(s): Refinery29.com

5 Online Shopping Hunts That Are Worth Your Visit

As fun as it is to walk into an air-conditioned store with anticipation of swiping your credit card for a bag full of pretty things, sometimes all you really have time for is online shopping. However, open 24 hours a day with limitless nooks and crannies, the world wide web can indeed be a really wide, disconcerting world. So here are five online stores to guide you in the right direction, preventing that overwhelming feeling of helplessness like a kid lost in a supermarket.

Need Supply Co. for reasonably priced style (pictured above) -- This Virginia-based online shop carries trendy but not-too-trendy clothes that seem very high-end. However you're in for a real treat when you look at the price ($48 for that romper? Score!). It could be the beautiful models, good lighting, or the high-fashion aesthetic of its lookbooks, but excellent style doesn't lie. More after the jump!

Text Kristina Bravo

Sources: Need Supply, Bona Drag, Fred Flare, Etsy, Three Feathers Vintage, DisciplesOf, La Garconne

Who Knew Kristen Dunst is The New Face of Bvlgari?

You may have noticed Kristina Bravo blogged about Kirsten Dunst is starring in an upcoming film, Melancholia, but what she didn't mention was Dunst's new role as the face of Bvlgari's Summer 2011 Sunglasses Collection as well as the jewelry designer's new fragrance Mon Jasmin Noir. Of course she is also modeling the brand's latest jewelry collection, as well.

If you don't recall, I wrote about Julianne Moore modeling with lion cubs a few months back. During that time, cubs were a huge hit all over every magazine in ads and photo spreads. Now, we are seeing full grown animals on the pages, such as in the current Bvlgari ad campaign. At first, the brand was showing Dunst in sunglasses, and I personally did not know who the model was. In each issue, I would see this woman with odd lips and wonder what the significance was. In the May issues, they have finally revealed who she is: Kirsten Dunst. Wow, this was not expected at all. The actress has been nowhere to be scene in recent years. She was considered highly fashionable about six or seven years ago. She was the face of Miu Miu in the Spring 2008 Collection, then disappeared from the spotlight for a long period of time. Now, she is back shining directly in the fashion world through Bvlgari. Does this brilliant Little Women, Marie Antoinette and Spiderman star know how to make a comeback or what?

Test Alexandra Faye

American Apparel: Beating a Dead Horse?

Earlier this week it was released that American Apparel's Dov Charney was able to secure $15 million dollars to keep the debt-beast at bay just a smidgen longer and keep the company afloat. It is said that the money was raised by a board of Canadian investors with an option for further investment in the next since months. Fashionista.com reports that many of these investors are taking the stance that Charney is merely misunderstood and eccentric (uh...?), and who has also taken a hit in diluting his stocks in order to make this deal happen. One of the investors is quoted as saying that they look for companies who are being "discounted...for reasons that are temporary." While it may seem like a stretch to put these sentiments next to a company which has faced such controversy and seems to have been floundering for awhile now, this is the same investment company that was able to successfully bail out Jamba Juice in the last few years, so maybe they can be the white knight for American Apparel as well; thoughts?

Text: Corinna Fabre

Information: Fashionista.com

Picture: American Apparel

Rebecca Minkoff Gives Real Advice On How To Make It in Fashion

Fashion industry insiders speaking about how they became successful usually involves, "Oh I just really fell into it," or "My father was an editor of a British magazine." That kind of talk isn't very motivating for a struggling student who is actually trying to make it in fashion. Rebecca Minkoff's interview on Fashionista.com gives real advice for budding industry players. In starting her own company, the handbag designer says,

"I started with $10,000 from saving up my whole life. By the time I began to grow at a rate that was beyond dollar in, dollar out, I was in business with my brother. Luckily he had great credit and could secure a credit line. If you don’t have good credit, I would say find someone who does! The thing that we learned was to not go out and get a huge chunk of money. I have seen many people blow through it because it’s there. We saved and thought about every single penny and to my brother’s credit we are lucky in that we own 100% of the company today."

For more advice on how to break it into the industry, what buyers want, doing a collaboration, and getting press for your product, check out the rest of the interview here.

Text Kristina Bravo

Source: Fashionista.com

Are Unisex Clothes the Future?

Kanye West sported this women's piece from Celine's Spring 2011 collection at Coachella last weekend. Known to be a huge fashion-aficionado, the hip-hop artist has always been bold with his style, and he isn't the only one to venture into clothing designed for the opposite sex. This brings into question, are we headed into gender-neutral fashion? As society progresses, more and more barriers are being broken down and free stylistic choices are encouraged. A girl shopping in the boys department for an oversized blazer is not weird at all, and boys opting for women's duds, although not as usual , is not a big deal in the fashion industry. Check out this trend on other stylish personalities here, and think, does the future hold more unisex clothing?

Text Kristina Bravo

Source: Style.com

Sugary Treats from Tom Binns

Tom Binns, famous for classic costume jewelry with an electric neon twist, has introduced a new collection for spring that is anything but flashy. The designer, who counts stylist Rachel Zoe among his biggest fans, has gone the way of the Easter basket this time around with a collection focuses on fluffy pastels and marshmellowey creams. Pair these confections with a plain white t-shirt, skinny fit cargos, and a statement heel for an outfit that is certain to put some spring in your step!

Text Hannah Morris
Source: Vogue
Photo: Vogue (Liam Goodman)

Melancholia: A Movie for the Fashion Crowd

Many iconic movies owe their cinematic appeal to costume design, such as Breakfast at Tiffany's, Almost Famous, and Black Swan. Who didn't love the ethereal dresses sported by the Lisbon sisters in The Virgin Suicides? Lars Von Trier's Melancholia feature some iconic-looking ensembles while also starring two of fashion's quirky darlings, Kirsten Dunst and Charlotte Gainsbourg. Dunst has modeled for Boy by Band of Outsiders and Gainsbourg, other than being the daughter of Jane Birkin, has played muse for designer Nicolas Ghesquière. The dramatic sci-fi thriller is the story of the relationship of two sisters as challenged by the impending collision of another planet into Earth. This combination of romanticism and modernism in the movie's theme is likewise embodied by the costumes of the characters, which can easily epitomize our generation's fashion to movie spectators many years from now. Needless to say, this apocalyptic movie will be nothing like 2012 (What 2012 you ask? Exactly). With two fashion icons, beautiful cinematography, and an intriguing plot, what else can a fashion-lover ask for? The film comes out on May 26!

Text Kristina Bravo
Source: Vimeo

Kate Spade: The Bike Maker

Have you ever dreamed of cruising the streets of your town or city on a killer set of wheels? Well bicycle wheels that is. Kate Spade has collaborated with Adeline Adeline to create the perfect cruiser for any bike-goer. Crafted by Abici in Italy, the bike is sleek, retro, and absolutely adorable. It comes in Spade's classic "Kelly Green" hue and features a steel frame, English-style leather saddle, a silver rear rack, and a night-friendly front light. The best part? The cruiser has a chain guard so go ahead and throw on your flowy dress and cute wedges and have no worries of chain grease stains and scratched ankles.

This fashionable form of transportation will be sure to turn heads and add an unexpected splash of color to your summer outfits. However, riding in style doesn't come cheap. Priced at $1,100 the bike comes in two sizes (26" & 28"). Check out the cruiser online here!

Text Lauryn Stone

Source(s): Refinery29, Adelineadeline.com

Sexy, Vintage, and Ultra Feminine: Honor's Spring Lookbook

It seems like this season's current collection of lookbooks from designers couldn't get much better; that is until you take a look at Honor's latest lookbook for Spring '11. Shot at a brilliantly chic and romantic estate, the lookbook is feminine and debonair. Models elegantly lounge on rich velvet chaises while wearing fabulous sheer blouses and gowns. The color palette is neutral but with a creamy and heavenly appeal. Each garment is simple, uncontrived, and undoubtedly wearable. Subtle touches like the soft pink ombre on the gowns, glints of shimmer on sequined shoulder pads, and delicate pleating on sweetheart bodices make this collection perfect and pretty.

Check out the rest of the lookbook here!

Text Lauryn Stone

Source(s): Refinery29, Honor Apparel

Coachella Street Style Snaps!

Another Coachella weekend has gone and passed and the music festival would be nothing without street style that ushers the season of heat and dehydration. The outfits spotted might have been a little predictable (Levi's cut-off shorts, the maxi trend, mini-dresses, floppy hats, crop tops), but what else are you going to wear in the middle of the desert in almost triple digit temperatures? Here are seven of the best street shots from around the web, giving us a little style inspiration for the rest of summer.

Text Kristina Bravo
Sources: Refinery29, Studded Hearts, Fabsugar, Elle

April Showers by Burberry

Burberry's latest campaign is catered to the Spring season. "April showers bring May flowers". If you watch the advertisement video, the movie and infamous scene "Singin' in the Rain" will come to mind. While the saying and the movie have been around for years, the focus on raincoats is innovative for a Spring collection. The best part of this campaign is how fun the photographs and video are, with the playful movements of the models and "rain" they are playing in. The art director, set designer, photographer, and cinematographer must have had a blast working on this shoot.

With the translucent materials and bold color palette of greens, reds, yellows and blues, wearing Burberry in the rain will show the fun and exciting side of your personality. The way Burberry used its signature pattern in news ways shows how the line is always becoming more modern without losing its classic tough. So go ahead, have some fun in the rain this season!

Take a look at the site! You will enjoy it!

Text Alexandra Faye

Ooh La La: Daisy Lowe's Swimwear Collection is a Scorcher

Swimsuit season is almost upon us (cue spine-chilling horror movie sound effect), but you can relax because good things such as shape-embracing swimwear come in collaborations. Think, who better to offer a swim line to splash around in for the curvaceous set than 22-year old bombshell Daisy Lowe? The rock and roll British lovechild of Pearl Lowe and Gavin Rossdale designed a retro-inspired four-piece collection for affordable retailer Peacocks. The two swimsuits and two bikini sets are all priced under £22, or $36 for stateside beauties; so there's no excuse to fall back on the same old bikini you've had in your closet for years. So come summer, channel a modern-day Jessica Rabbit poolside and celebrate those womanly curves!

Text Kristina Bravo
Source: fashion.telegraph.co.uk

A Night at the Museum

There is nothing more stylish than a killer outfit and a killer night out and we've got the perfect solution for you, whether you're in sunny L.A. or blustery NYC: the opening of two amazing exhibits.

The first is one that should come as no surprise with the success of the Mulleavy sisters this year: the two are featured in their first solo exhibition at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The show entitled "States of Matter" is currently on display now through June 5. The relatively large scale exhibit features a mixture of black and white pieces from previous shows, along with pieces from their outstanding displaying from designing for Black Swan. The clothes are featured with varying changes and props tells a story of inspiration from the sisters you'd be hard pressed to find anywhere else.

On the other coast, starting May 4th is an exhibition set up to showcase the life's work of none other than Alexander McQueen: this is an exhibit to hold your breath for. The showcase has already been highly buzzed and will surely be difficult to navigate due to its popularity, but definitely a can't miss show. From the Metropolitan Museum of Art's website (where the show will be featured) we are promised, "Approximately one hundred examples will be on view, including signature designs such as the bumster trouser, the kimono jacket, and the Origami frock coat, as well as pieces reflecting the exaggerated silhouettes of the 1860s, 1880s, 1890s, and 1950s that he crafted into contemporary silhouettes transmitting romantic narratives" Along with a newly released book featuring his work, this is a once in a lifetime opportunity to peak inside the mind of a genius.

Text Corinna Fabre

Shower Fun with Tom Ford

Skin sells. Tom Ford created a whole empire based on this concept. Who else could have come up with this ad campaign for bath products (well maybe Dov Charney could have, but this is certainly more tasteful than an adolescent-looking girl showing off her coochie)? Call me an easy target, but I've never wanted designer shower gel so badly. It's kind of like that Zoolander scene where the male models had a little too much fun at the gas station, kind of silly but fun, fresh and sexy nonetheless.

Text Kristina Bravo
Source: Fashionologie.com

Hlaska: Boyfriend's covet worthy basics now for women!

Hlaska, the first fashion venture of Youtube co-founder Chad Hurley is slated to debut a women's line this Saturday, April 16th. The San Francisco brand gaining clout for it's supple leather goods and handsome casual blazers focuses on sourcing most of it's men's brand from the U.S. and the women's line will be entirely produced in-country. There has been no leakage as to what the line will feature though we're expecting soft leather jackets, androgynous over-sized watches, and lots of heather grey. Think J.Crew basics with a couture flair. Visit the website to view the new line on April 16th and remember, just because they're creating for women doesn't mean we can't buy from the men's line too!

Text Hannah Morris
Source & Image: Hlaska.com

Designer Duds For Less: Matthew Williamson For Macy's

There is no better feeling than finding a great deal on some killer outfits and now you can have that feeling once again with Macy's latest guest designer, Matthew Williamson. Feminine, fun, and modern, the collection features perfect, ready-to-wear summer pieces. Colorful printed dresses and comfy knits are just some of the duds you can expect to find in the exclusive collection as well as rich, faux leather jackets and breezy dresses. In trend, the colors in the collection are bright and vivid. Aside from the beautiful clothes, the friendly price tag is enough to make any fashionista want brave the crowds and lines. The average price point is $80 which compared to a $300 median price (0f his normal collections) is an absolute steal. The best part is that the pieces created for the temporary line are just as fabulous as his runway collections. The collection can be purchased online and in the Impulse section in stores for a limited time this season. Start shopping Matthew Williamson for Macy's here.

Text Lauryn Stone

Fox News Lashes On J. Crew For Hot Pink Nail Polish

Fox News isn't exactly known for the "fair and balanced" journalism that it claims, but contributing psychiatrist Keith Ablow inspired quite the controversy when he criticized J. Crew's creative director Jenna Lyons on her parenting skills. J. Crew's April 2011 catalog features Lyons' son with pink toenails, quoting the creative director saying, "Lucky for me, I ended up with a boy whose favorite color is pink. Toenail painting is way more fun in neon."

In his article titled "J. Crew Plants the Seeds for Gender Identity" (geez), Ablow answered Lyons' remark on the catalog with, "Yeah, well, it may be fun and games now, Jenna, but at least put some money aside for psychotherapy for the kid—and maybe a little for others who’ll be affected by your 'innocent' pleasure." Ablow continues, "These folks are hostile to the gender distinctions that actually are part of the magnificent synergy that creates and sustains the human race. They respect their own creative notions a whole lot more than any creative Force in the universe."

Forcing personal beliefs on people and condemning someones parental methods don't quite scream "fair and balanced." Fashion celebrates all kinds of people and their creativity with open-mindedness, something that Fox News can really use some of. What do you think, does Ablow have a point or should he leave J. Crew alone?

Text Kristina Bravo

Image: Fashionista.com

Glam Up Your Life: Versace's 2011 Interior Collection

Bring style, color, and luxury to your household with Versace's latest home collection. Sleek and colorfully contemporary, Donatella describes the visual foundation for her interior design as the same for her clothing; glamourous and sexy. Featuring a citrus bright color palette, the collection is clean and fashion forward. Bubble cocktail tables are laquered with high shine and moon chairs are upholstered with rich velvet. "I want to create spaces that make you feel sexy and glamorous. And comfortable. It's really that simple." Donatella describes. The collection debuted today at Salone del Mobile in Milan and set to release this summer. Check out more of the 2011 Versace Home collection as well as other pieces here.

Text Lauryn Stone

Source(s): Style.com

Office Chic: Candela's FW '11 Lookbook

Get some early inspiration for fall with Candela's behind-the-scenes video for the F/W '11 lookbook. Photographed by Tom Hines, the lookbook was shot in your run-of-the-mill office space that plays the perfect backdrop for the incredibly chic and sexy collection. Designer Gabriela Perezutti was inspired for her collection by the 1970's film "The Network" and based her choices for the fabrics, colors, and silhouettes on the film. With a very polished and professional color palette- navy', khaki's, and burgundies- the collection is anything but provincial and is actually quite glamorous and pretty. The silhouettes are structured and exude the essence of the quintessential "office uniform" while still maintaining an aire of elegance and femininity. The simple and sophisticated styling- by Kate Sebbah- allows the pieces in the collection to shine individually and makes each look wearable for the everyday fashionista. Does this lookbook inspire you for fall?

Text Lauryn Stone

Source(s): Refinery29

Trending: Shirt-dresses To Take You Everywhere in Spring

Although shirt-dresses never really left the fashion scene, the designers behind Rag & Bone, Phillip Lim and NAHM revisited and reinvented the classic silhouette for A/W 2011. The shirt-dress can take you anywhere from day to night and work to play, not to mention that it flatters all shapes and sizes, making anyone look put together without really trying at all (that's the trick, isn't it?). Of course as with any classic staple, it doesn't hurt to accessorize to make it all your own. So whether wear these with combat boots, wedges, a belt or some quirky jewelry, look smart in these fun must-haves for spring!

I Don't Like Mondays Evil Twin Revolution in the Classroom Shirt-dress (pictured above), $37.20; Cheap Monday Whitney Dress, $90; Madewell Scenic Route Dress, $126; Shakuhachi Army Mesh Shirt-dress, $187.20; Something Else Haze Slash Shirt-dress, $128; Urban Outfitters Sparkle and Fade Dress, $59. Levi's x Opening Ceremony Onesie Skirt Dress, $280.

Text Kristina Bravo

Source: Fashionologie.com

Label Watch: Shakuhachi Hits All The Spots

The talent behind Shakuhachi is self-taught designer Jessie White. The label from down under was founded over a decade ago with three handmade printed neon t-shirts White presented to an Australian boutique, all of which were bought on the spot. Slowly but surely, Shakuhachi is making its name in the international front with Urban Outfitters featuring some of its pieces in a high-end capsule shop late last year in NYC.

The line's Cruise 2010-11 collection, titled Love Etc., will give the trendy fashionista everything that she could ever ask for: cut-outs, mesh, lace, denim on denim, leather, asymmetrical hemlines, and you guessed it, maxi skirts and dresses. The supplementary shoe collection features lace-ups, platforms, mules and fringes, which are all very Alexander Wang-esque. Thinking that all of these will just make you look like another fashion victim? For this collection, White indeed uses very on-trend elements, but utilizes them quite smartly and seamlessly; never a tad too much. Range and contrast were the main themes, which were all somehow brought together in a unified collection. The girl that Shakuhachi designed for this season is unmistakably the epitome of her time, a very refreshing take on the current state of fashion. Check out the whole collection here!

Text Kristina Bravo
Images: Shakuhachi.net

Karlie Kloss Part 2

I still cannot believe that this model is in high school! It completely baffles my mind! Karlie is absolutely stunning in this Oscar de la Renta ad. She has a look on her face like she knows... like she's already been through the tough times in life and now she's rougher on the edges because of it, but in a strength is sexy way. Her body is blossoming and her long limbs accentuate how beautiful it is to be a woman. There are some models who have boy-like thinness, but not Karlie. While we have seen her grow up through ad campaigns, runway shows and photo spreads, she has the type of versatility that will have her shining for many years to come.

Text Alexandra Faye

Full Skirted: Maxi Skirts Center Stage

This last week, the New York Times did an almost full two page spread on the trend of the moment: maxi skirts. They covered every different trend from the flowing hippie skirt to the more daring fully sheer option and the different ways the trend has been featured. This past season we saw the skirt on every runway from Marc Jacobs to Charlotte Ronson and back to Fendi and Michael Kors.

As the feature points out, while these silhouettes may be on much more the demure side than some of the looks we've been used to (not a day goes by that some celebrity doesn't have a little mishap with a hoochy-coochy problem if you know what we mean....), that isn't to say that the trend is uptight or prudish by any means.

So here's the real question: with the trend's shooting to the stars popularity, you'd be hard pressed to find much of a selection in any stores...what gives?

Text: Corinna Fabre

Source: New York Times

Photo: Style.com

American Apparel Launches Denim, And No They're Not The Crotchless Kind

Once a place where all metallic leggings go to die, American Apparel has definitely come a long way. Through out the years the L.A.-based company has added accessories (bringing back scrunchies and athletic headbands), jazz shoes and California Select vintage clothes. But of course what it's mostly known for these days are the controversies that surround its provocative ads, which include a model sporting sheer underwear that exposes her au natural lady part, and CEO Dov Charney, who is not one to shy away from sexual harassment cases.

The company recently reported a loss of $86.3 million dollars last year, and according to WWD, it is potentially very close to filing bankruptcy. However, despite of the controversies and its bad financial state, American Apparel is coming out with denim. In a press release, Charney says, "Jeans are iconic, essential part of the modern wardrobe, just like the t-shirt... No one does basics like American Apparel. We've mastered the basic t-shirt, now we're getting excited about jeans."

But can denim save American Apparel? Despite the seemingly lack of ethics in its practices, the company does employ many Americans with their local, vertically integrated manufacturing. Not to mention that it carries some pretty great basics that other clothing companies just can't seem to rival. What do you say, will American Apparel be able to dig itself out of the hole?

Text Kristina Bravo
Image courtesy of American Apparel
Source: Fashionista.com

Blast From Past: Wildfox Couture's SS'11 Lookbook

Kitschy, sassy, and definitely a little naughty Wildfox Couture's lookbooks are always a must-see and their latest one doesn't disappoint. With a retro inspired motif (late 80's/early 90's) the shoot plays on traditional, summer nostalgia via poolside poses and sun-drenched images. Aptly titled "Sweet Valley Fox," adorably free-spirited models prance around in the sunshine in casual graphic tee's and barely there shorts after a long day at school. Between the telephone couch session and the sexy, hallway pizza party this lookbook is going to make you yearn to throw on your summer uniform and call up your best gal pal for gossip and junk food. The styling is simple and sexy while the photographic style is totally vintage. Want a fun little anecdote about the shoot? It is rumoured to have been shot at the same house as the one inFerris Bueller's Day Off! Look forward to summer days by checking out the rest of the lookbook below!

Text Lauryn Stone

Source(s): Wildfox Couture

Olsens to launch a new website

Fashion's favorite pint sized powerhouses will be starting up yet another style venture this summer. This July, the twins will launch their newest website Stylemint.com, a monthly on-line shopping club. The idea is that members will fill out surveys and quizzes to help create a personalized shopping experience and the items offered will be specifically tailored each individual. According to a recent Vogue.com article, the Olsens wanted this to have a change to "engage with customers directly." The line will begin in July with a collection of Olsen designed t-shirts starting at $29.99 that are certain to sell out immediately. With so much recognition as of late (see their spread in April's Vogue) there is no better time to invest in a bit of the Olsen name. Visit Stylemint.com to be added to the mailing list and to become one of the first buyers!

Text Hannah Morris
Source: Vogue.com
Photo: Stylebyme.net

CHAOS MUSIC: The Comeback Kid-Pusha T

Pusha T - Cook It Down from Illusive Media on Vimeo.

The music industry loves a comeback kid-especially when it involves the star-studded company of Mr. Kanye West. Pusha T, one half of the critically acclaimed Virginia-based hip-hop duo, Clipse, is the latest artist rallying a chart topping resurrection after the disappointing debut of his 2009 album “Til the Casket Drops”. The Clipse album nabbed the 41st spot on Billboard charts before plummeting into irrelevance shortly after.

A Fashion Reality TV Show That Won't Have You Cringing

Fashion and reality television rarely equal magic; well, reality television plus anything rarely equal magic. But when cable network Sundance Channel and Elle Creative Director Joe Zee join forces, we have good reasons to expect something different.

We've caught a glimpse of Joe Zee's zany personality on MTV's The City. But surely his new project will prove to be more entertaining than the thinly disguised boredom of socialites as they pretend to toil in a fashion magazine (although it didn't really set the bar too high). The premise of the show, titled All On The Line, revolves around the creative director and his efforts to help talented designers in succeeding in their businesses. Many fashion reality TV shows have gone and failed, with the CW responsible for about half of them, but Joe Zee's cred in the fashion industry makes this one promising. And as Rachel Zoe has showed us, with the right amount of crazy and some authenticity, fashion on TV can be pretty darn addicting.

Text Kristina Bravo
Image courtesy of FashionIndie

Calvin Klein: Fall 2011 Presentation

Known for their sexed-up and at times controversial advertising, The Calvin Klein presentation for the Fall '11 collection will make you covet more than just the beautiful models. The collection is sexy, cool, and sophisticated. The color palette features shades of rust, sand, and granite with flicks of metallics like copper and pewter. With a mix of textures like denim and splashes of bold prints, this collection is far from predictable. Males models wore comfortable yet tailored ensenbles while the female models posed in chic pieces. The line is easy to wear and fashionably functional for anyone. Check out the rest of presentation here.

Text Lauryn Stone

Source(s): Models.com

Blake Lively: The New Face of Chanel

Blake Lively is now promoting Chanel's new blood red handbag in the latest ad campaign. This seems to be an obvious choice with the way this actress has been almost everywhere lately. Now, I do not mean everywhere as in all over the tabloids. You will rarely see her there unless mentioned in a "Best Dressed" category. She is in almost every fashion and beauty magazine, if not for her makeup, hair, or the latest trend she's sporting by top designers. Designers are smitten over her. From Michael Kors to Lanvin to Karl Lagerfeld. How lucky is this young woman? Those are three designers any person interested in the fashion industry would kill to be oogled by. Who could blame them, though? She is around six foot, blonde, and has a great body. She is sexy but not provocative. Last summer she did a spread in Vogue where her curves were obvious, but covered up for a surf and beach shoot. She might be considered perfect. She has played the classiest but most controversial "It Girl" in the Upper East Side in Gossip Girl, as well as a sell out drug addict playing the ex of Ben Affleck in The Town. Lively is a young woman to be inspired by, in the acting industry, as well as in the fashion industry.

Text Alexandra Faye

A Good Excuse to Buy Another Bag (No Really)

Earth day isn't until April 22; but in fashion, looking ahead is never a bad thing. One stylish way to celebrate is to gradually cut off those pesky, plastic grocery bags and opt for cuter ways to carry your pre-made organic salad or packets of ramen noodles. Eco-friendly options have been around for a while now. And with those disturbing documentaries and heart-pinching PSA's, the continued existence of plastic bags is baffling.

19 billion of these usually, tacky plastic sacks are used every year in California alone. So, let's show those corporate lobbyists and the Senate, which rejected the state's proposed ban on plastic shopping bags last September, by rebelling in style with these reusable totes. Other than clean streets and sanitary parks, the good news is that many of these are cheap, come in every color of the rainbow, and can be conveniently tucked away in the deepest cranny of your PS1 (real or knock-off).

American Apparel Emergency Bag (pictured above), $16; Baggu, $8; Etsy Eco Sail Tote, $75 (okay, kind of expensive for a grocery bag… but it's made from recycled sail boat sails! Just think of the crying Indian.); Thank You Tote Bag, $20; Smartcycle Reusable Shopping Bag, $4.95; For All The World Tote, $6.99. Click after the jump for pictures!

Text Kristina Bravo
Sources: LA Times, NBC San Diego, American Apparel, Baggu, Etsy, ThankYouToteBag.com, Reuseit.com, ModCloth.

Label Watch: Conjure a Charming Spell in Lindsey Thornburg's Cloaks

If at age 11 you cried yourself to sleep over not receiving an acceptance letter from Hogwarts, rejoice! You can still live out your magical fantasies, well sartorially at least, through Lindsey Thornburg's cloaks.

Growing up in Aspen, Colorado, Thornburg studied philosophy (to make mystical stones, who knows?) in Santa Barbara and attended design school in Los Angeles, where she made her first dresses under the label Fabric. A trip to Machu Picchu in 2006 and her collection of Pendleton blankets inspired her to create a cloak collection. The indigenous prints of many of Thornburg's designs perfectly complement the draped silhouette of a cloak, resulting in an edgier alternative to the good old jacket or coat. If you're not really the cloak wearing kind (I guess muggles deserve pretty things too), Thornburg also makes other ready-to-wear pieces that are equally stunning.

Text Kristina Bravo
Images courtesy of Lindsey Thornburg

In Need of a Fashion Giggle?

Anna Wintour's face and the "fierce" expressions of models walking down the runway don't exactly scream fun; but that doesn't mean that the fashion industry doesn't have any sense of humor. Case in point is Garance Dore in her post, "Talking Fashion".

The French illustrator and street style photographer (just like her beau, The Sartorialist's Scott Schuman) has always had her quirky way with words. In this entry, Garance writes about fashion industry semantics in which she reveals that "I'm going free-lance!" can really mean "I just got fired," and "I have a huge project with a huge client but I can't really talk about it" equals "I just did a shoot for Target." The first of what will hopefully be many installments is hilarious, despite the fact that they could all just easily be true. See, fashion isn't all anti-Semites and miserable interns.

Text: Kristina Bravo

Image courtesy of Vogue.co.uk

Lets Talk Turkey

Apparently there is a new trend emerging in shameless self propaganda and meat wear...and it's not very subtle. Miss Turkey is apparently taking her origins quite literally and now advertising turkey burgers for Carl's Jr; yes, the same Carl's Jr. who brought us the masterful artwork that brought together Paris Hilton and a juicy burger. Not only does Gizem Mimec (Ms. Turkey) don a turkey burger printed bikini while eating her burger (in what some are calling porn worthy) but she does it all while keeping her tiara aloft and her sash perfectly placed. So what do you think...genius advertising or pathetic ploy? Maybe a mix of both?

Text Corinna Fabre

Bass x Rachel Antonoff: There's No Shame In Being Girly

Taking interest in the royal wedding (don't even pretend not to know) and gushing over cute kittens may be considered for the weak. Thanks to Alexander Wang, bright-eyed romantics have been pushed aside even in fashion, where tough, I-don't-give-a-fuck downtown chic still reigns in vogue. Sometimes however, it's nice to embrace your sweet, non-swearing feminine side. This is where Rachel Antonoff's collaboration with Bass comes in. Known for her frilly and playful designs, Antonoff created a collection for the century-and-a-half old footwear company that can bring out the girly side in the most rebellious of chicks. Floral details, ladylike bows, and fine craftsmanship are just some of the remarkable features of these vintage-inspired kicks. So go ahead, drop the leather jacket and give those dominatrix boots a rest. Allow yourself to get giddy as you stain your lips red, wear a flower in your hair, sport one of these and for heaven's sake, let the lucky boy pay for your dinner for once.

Text Kristina Bravo

Image and Source: Bass Shoes

M Missoni Fall 2011

Retro is back, and there's no hiding from it! This time the major player is M Missoni which clinging to it's signature knits but now using them to feature bold designs and mod stylings. The clean lines show geometric patterns in a myriad of mustard, eggplant, and olive colors. There is no shortage in the line of turtlenecks, rompers, short dresses, sweaters and spotlight the random pops of turquoise and reds that keep you on your feet! The line also features great accessories to compliment their bold looks. There are some fashion collections that take retro a little too over-the-top, but this is not one of them!

Text Corinna Fabre

Suno, so now!

Suno, known for their sugary sweet flower prints, is launching its online shop on Monday and we're totally waiting in the virtual line. According to a recent interview with Vogue, the plan is simple: the New York designers are going to provide the basics, including swimsuits, no frills, no complications. The mag also reports that 70% of the collection is produced in Kenya, which explains the glorious watercolor prints and airy pants. With small designers creeping out of every borough, it's hard to differentiate the good and the great. But Suno rises above the rest, with an international flair. Sit down with a glass of wine and your favorite credit card on Monday to check out the new site; it's like an island vacation without the baggage charge!

Text: Hannah Morris

Image: Suno.com

Source: Vogue

Clash Class: J.Crew's scholarly take on mixing it up

J.Crew's Fall 2011 line features the brand's standards: washed out boyfriend jeans and confectionery cardigans with a sophisticated twist. This season Lyons has delved into rich, contrasting bright solids and very little pattern. With a cult following of her quirky, old-timey pieces, Lyons has decided to move to something a little more sophisticated this time around. The clothes feel decidedly more mature than past collections with structured swing coats and pressed cropped pants.

In true Crew style, the models look slightly disheveled; their ruffled hair and coy smirks look like they were doing something way too fun just moments before. And those over-sized glasses! They take some of the edge off of grown up silk dresses. According to Style.com, the Cutler and Gross frames are the same ones that grace Lyons's own façade. Look to the line this fall for wonderful additions to your closet and some inspiration for coupling all of your favorite vintage hand-me-downs!

Text Hannah Morris
Source & Image: Style.com