The Fashion Vagabond

Cha-cha-changes

2011-06-15T19:26:00.000-07:00

I haven't written in a long time. A lot of changes have happened since my last post, too. I also missed the opportunity to write about all kinds of exciting or noteworthy events in fashion: the Royal Wedding, the CFDA awards of recent, the Cannes Film Festival red carpet, the Venice Biennale, etc., etc. I do not anticipate having a long period of absence again, so I hope you'll continue to stop by! Hopefully, the best ideas are yet to come...

Stay tuned...

April Showers Bring...Royal Weddings?

2011-04-19T18:52:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry I haven't posted in ages! I have a truly excellent excuse, though. I've been utterly glued to non-stop, round-the-clock Royal Wedding coverage. Yes, I've watched everything from the cheesy Lifetime movie "William and Kate" (which I'd like to watch again if Newcastle would hurry up and lose to ManU) to BBC specials and even some sort of TV Guide Hollywood 411 special. I've also been yoked to the official Royal Wedding website, Royal blogs, the BBC's coverage, and CNN International's updates. In short, I haven't missed a moment of the madness.

What makes this wedding so special? Well, first and foremost, I love England. Absolutely love it. If you can find a bigger Anglophile in the U.S., please introduce me. I could wax on nostalgically about the many reasons that I love this great nation forever, so I won't bore you with that. What is the other reason that has me following the wedding details of two people I've never met? Quite simply, I'm always excited when anyone who has been in a long-term relationship finally makes it official. There's something extra meaningful about a union that has been a decade in the making. Kate waited a long time for this moment, and I'm just really happy for her. Perhaps it's also a sign of hope for the rest of us in long-term relationships that there could be an engagement at the end of the tunnel.

I had great hopes of preparing exciting and interesting posts about London this month, but that ship has nearly sailed. The wedding is just ten days away! Perhaps then I can carry on with my normal daily activities, but, for now, there's Royal Wedding coverage on somewhere, and I'm going to find it!

Cheers for now!

The Wisdom and Disenchantment of the Style Rookie

2011-03-30T10:51:00.000-07:00

Tavi (aka The Style Rookie) had a recent blog post that really resonated with me. In this post, titled "I feel like the photo to accompany this post should be a lot more intense and introspective-seeming but hey! mirrors are pretty introspective," Tavi wrote about, basically, becoming disenchanted with the fashion world, wondering if she'll always be interested in fashion, and where to go from here. I've kind of felt that way myself lately, mainly because a big opportunity has landed in my lap, one that I was not expecting and that has completely dumbfounded me. I have the chance to accomplish my lifelong dream, and I'm wondering if I even want to.

Like Tavi addressed in her post, something "is different" about the fashion industry now. I know exactly what she means. The fashion world has changed so much in the past five-six years that I barely recognize it. I find myself asking, "Is this what I wanted? Is this the field that I became utterly enraptured with more than a decade ago?" I just don't like the changes that I'm seeing and I'm finding that I want to distance myself from it, not become more engrossed. The fact that fashion has become so fashionable lately is really a double-edged sword.

When I first became interested in fashion back in my early high school years, opportunities in this field were beyond limited. Teen Vogue didn't exist. Ed2010.com didn't exist. I don't even think Vogue.com existed. I was the only person in my high school who read Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and W. Even in college, the only girl on my freshman hall who was remotely interested in fashion and aesthetics had never seen an issue of W (she stumbled into my room one night and wondered what the giant magazine I was holding was...um, W). But, back then, Karolina Kurkova was more likely to grace the cover than Kim Kardashian. And then along came "Project Runway," The Sartorialist, "The September Issue," "Valentino: The Last Emperor," "Sex and the City" (well, SATC existed when I was in high school, but it didn't explode in popularity until I was in college). And suddenly everyone wants a piece of the fashion pie. It's no longer unique or esoteric. There are now tons of different opportunities in the industry, but everyone is after them now.

Like I said, it's really a double-edged sword. When I applied for a Fulbright Scholarship, I wrote about the democratization of high fashion, and how this is a good thing. It isn't a field that should be limited to the provenance of the elite. Fashion, as the industry has gained popularity, has recently become a field worthy of academic consideration...and it certainly wasn't before. Case-in-point: Parsons created a Masters in Fashion Studies program (the program is only in the second year of its genesis). I wrote about how this was significant and how the field was not frivolous. This is something that I have been trying to convince myself of, really, for an entire decade. Is it important? Does it merit academic exploration? Does it make a worthwhile contribution to society? In my scholarship essay, I argued that, yes, it is important and it is something to be studied. I wasn't able to convince the Fulbright Committee of this, of course, and sometimes I have trouble convincing myself.

This is only because of the changes that have come about as a result of its popularity, globalization, and democratization. Now I meet people who say they are interested in fashion but do not know who Valerie Steele is (Are you kidding me??!! That's like being interested in politics and not knowing who Hilary Clinton is.) They don't know about Edna Woolman-Chase and the early origins of Condé Nast. They're not familiar with the writings of Lisa Armstrong and Suzy Menkes or the curatorial work of Harold Koda and Hamish Bowles. I've even met fashion design majors who couldn't hold conversations on the contributions of Cristobal Balenciaga ("Who?"), Diana Vreeland, and Edward Steichen. What are people learning about fashion then? What is it about the field that they like? How can you proclaim to be concerned about this subject if you're not cognizant of the most important people to have shaped it?

All of this leads me to wonder where fashion is heading and if I really want to be a part of it. Will I wake up one day and realize that my dream was just an illusion? Like Tavi hinted at in her blog post, for many of us, the illusion already started to shatter after the recent John Galliano incident. Here is a person who I've admired for nearly ten years. I wrote about wanting to curate a fashion exhibit around his fantastical closing runway outfits. I had him listed as an inspiration in my blog bio (which I've since removed for fear that others might think I'm anti-Semitic were I to have kept it). And then he's shouting about loving Hitler and being fired by Dior and being sent off to rehab. Prior to that incident, Alexander McQueen committed suicide. Here was someone who many of us thought would revolutionize the industry and become a lifelong, household name. And even before that, Valentino was somewhat forced into retirement when his label was bought. I know that these unfortunate events could happen in any industry. People pass, retire, get fired, etc. It just makes me question my commitment to fashion on some level.

But then I look around my room and my apartment. I've been archiving issues of Vogue for so long that I must store them in three different locations (the early archives are at home with my Dad, the middle years are in storage at my Mom's, and the most recent editions along with my favorite issues are in my apartment). I've visited fashion museums and exhibits on two continents. I've collected rare editions of books on fashion (some that are valued at over $200 on amazon.com). And I have dreamed night and day about seeing my name on Vogue's masthead. It's the one thing that I've thought would make my life complete. If I could just accomplish that, I'd truly be happy. I would want nothing. And now the opportunity is before me, and, like Tavi, I'm wondering if I should "get out of it what I get out of it, ignore or laugh at the rest, and bring the enjoyable stuff back home to add to my collection of all that stuff I'm trying to absorb" (The Style Rookie).

I'm still pondering that, but I'm as disenchanted as I've ever been. I really wish I could say otherwise.

(** quotations are from The Style Rookie at http://www.thestylerookie.com/**)

easyJet Heads to Amman, Jordan

2011-03-29T14:14:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite travel bloggers, A Lady in London, has been Tweeting about an upcoming trip to Amman, Jordan for the past couple days. Her tweets on the side of the blog really piqued my curiosity, so I checked out her Twitter page. She had tweeted about taking a press trip to Amman with members of easyJet, citing the reason for the trip as the airline's expansion to Jordan. I think this is pretty exciting news for budget travel. easyJet's expansion makes the Middle East that much more accessible to travelers who are looking for deals or who otherwise might not have had the opportunity to venture to that corner of the world.

I must confess that despite this initial enthusiasm, I have had sort of a love/hate relationship with the budget airlines in Europe. My sister and I have spent many-a-night huddled on the floor of airports in Luton, Stanstead, Gatwick, and other cities around Europe waiting for an inconvenient (but cheap) flight to somewhere like Warsaw or Paris. On our most recent trip, our plans to travel to Stockholm and Oslo were thwarted by sky-high carry-on baggage fees (disclaimer: the flights were not booked with easyJet) that caused us to eat the price of the tickets and vow to visit the cities on our next European excursion. In fact, I don't think I have flown with a budget carrier since a flight with Laura from Krakow to Berlin in 2006. (I try to save all of my boarding cards.)

Instead, we've been flying out of Heathrow with British Airways (my absolute favorite airline in the entire world) or Iberia. In other words, we've generally shied away from making plans on the budget airlines, even though they provide low-cost service to destinations like Istanbul, Fez, Bucharest, and Helsinki (so, some pretty fantastic places that we want to visit).

easyJet's expansion to Amman might cause me to rethink my recent aversion to the budget carriers. Petra is a must-see destination on my travel list, and easyJet just made it that much more affordable for me to visit...so, thank you, easyJet! I look forward to flying with you again.

The Fabulous Traina Sisters

2011-03-29T12:22:00.000-07:00

Victoria and Vanessa Traina are without a doubt two of the most stylish sisters in the whole of fashion-dom. They're up there with Mary-Kate and Ashley, Lucy and Plum Sykes, Missy and Frankie Rayder, Jaime and Jodie Kidd, and any other stylish sister duo I failed to mention. They exude style, which is not surprising given their lineage. As the daughters of best-selling author Danielle Steele (who collects couture the way most people collect, oh, DVDs), they've been exposed to high fashion from a very early age. They had a formal coming-out at the legendary Crillon Ball in Paris (other debutantes have included Jane Aldridge, Lauren Bush, Anna's daughter, and Dree Hemingway). And now they're fixtures on the international fashion scene, attending the major shows and even acting as design muses for certain designers. So, it should come as no surprise when the sisters step out looking as fabulous as they did in the above photo from Vogue.com.

(** photo from www.vogue.com**)

Alexandra Kotur Departs Vogue

2011-03-29T10:11:00.000-07:00

And another one bites the dust over at Vogue. Alexandra Kotur, the magazine's current Style Director, will be departing Vogue for the greener, more society-laden pages of Town & Country, according to WWD. Unlike the other recent Vogue upheavals, I don't have a strong opinion regarding Ms. Kotur's departure. Her work always focused more on the aspects of the fashion industry that I find rather unappealing: society, society balls and parties, rich people/ heiresses wearing Lanvin, etc. Even when she was the Senior Editor for Special Projects back in 2003, I don't know that her work really jumped off the page and moved me in the way that, say, the reviews of Sarah Mower always have done. She's talented, to be sure, but she wasn't someone that I wanted to emulate.

So, who do I think will be replacing her at Vogue? That's a tough one. There have been so many changes to that masthead in the past year and a half that even I can barely keep up with it. This person would have to have an edge on society happenings, since he or she will be responsible for gathering the Ten Best Dressed/ Girl-of-the Moment ladies. This person will also be involved with the big productions Vogue puts on, like the Met Ball (though I believe Sylvana Ward-Durret handles the brunt of that). I'm predicting the promotion will come from the top middle of the masthead, someone young who has been at Vogue for a few years. Maybe relative newcomer Ricki de Sole? As the daughter of Domenico de Sole, she certainly knows a thing or two about money and Society. She probably has connections up the wazoo, too. Still, she hasn't been with the magazine that long, and heiresses tend to depart pretty quickly (um...Devon (née Schuster) Radziwill, Claiborne Swanson), so that might not be a safe pick. I don't know, I'm stumped.

Will I be reading T&C now that another Vogue alumna is joining the ranks? T&C is one of those magazines that I covertly flip through on occasion. It's one of the more pretentious magazines, in my opinion, out there. It's on par with something like the Robb Report in that it makes no bones about who the target audience really is. Magazines like Vogue, Bazaar, T+L, etc. feature ideas that are sophisticated and cultured, which appeals to a certain group of people, but they aren't blatantly focused on wealth. I only became interested in T&C when Lauren Bush appeared on the cover back in the early 2000s. Since then other society girls like Amanda Hearst (or was it Lydia?), Lauren Santo Domingo, and Eugenia Silva have appeared on the cover. The fashion editorials are OK, but nothing forward-thinking enough to really hold my attention. So, no, I really doubt I'll be reading T&C any more than I do now.

Congratulations are in order to Ms. Kotur, though. Brava!

Inspiration and the Bookstore Tradition

2011-03-22T11:44:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite things to do is to spend several hours at a bookstore, reading all of the new magazines, journals, and books that I can. The goal is to come up with inspiration: new ideas for articles and blog posts, as well as ideas to stir the mind. This is one of the things that I picked up when I met with an editor at Teen Vogue in the summer of 2009. She began each day by sifting through dozens of newspapers and clipping or bookmarking articles and ideas that could be of use for her own work later on. She struck me as not only an extremely successful person (if you work at a national magazine, chances are high that you're a go-getter in every sense of the word), but an incredibly brilliant journalist. I'm already an intellectually curious person, but I definitely wanted to emulate what I saw in this editor even more.

What do I read when I camp out at the bookstore for a couple hours? Here are the titles that I'm most likely to sift through:

- Vogue (Obviously. I begin by writing down all of the changes to the masthead. For April, Anna hired lots of new folks, so I like to find out as much about those individuals as I can.)

- Condé Nast Traveler (This is one of my favorite travel magazines, so I always read it. I used to subscribe and probably will again. I find that the advice is a little more useful for my budget and travel style than upscale mags like T+L).

- Travel & Leisure (Even though the articles tend to cater to a higher income crowd, I still read this magazine each month.)

- National Geographic Traveler (I really love this magazine. I always come up with great ideas either for blog posts or for future travel initiatives.)

- Tricycle (I only recently began reading this Buddhist publication, but I absolutely love it. Great ideas, excellent advice, lots of information to stir the brain.)

- Vanity Fair (I never read all of the articles, but I enjoy analyzing the masthead and contributors.)

- Lucky (One doesn't so much read Lucky as look at the pictures of clothing, shoes, makeup, accessories, etc. I still come up with some interesting ideas after each perusal, though. I'm also enjoying seeing how the new EIC is transforming the magazine.)

- International editions of Vogue and Harper's Bazaar. Australian editions are my current favorites.

- The Atlantic (If I'm in the mood for some current events or political junk (which is rare), this is where I turn.)

- Women's Health (I haven't carried out my resolution to go to the gym, but I am curious to read about ways to eat healthier or maintain an overall healthier lifestyle. And, who knows, I might go to the gym one more time this year...though I doubt it.)

Then I make my way to the real treasures: the books. I always walk down the fiction and literature aisles, jotting down titles as I go. I also head to travel (of course!) and then Eastern Philosophy and Religion, which is my new area of interest. I think I wrote down at least five titles from the Buddhism and Tao shelves to request from my local library.

What kinds of notes am I left with after all of this reading and note-taking has finished (about two hours overall)? Well, yesterday I came across an article about the volcano in Iceland that I might write a letter to the editor in response to; I read about a bridal boutique in my area (featured in Lucky) that I'll probably check out either for personal reasons or for the blog; I jotted down two book titles that I'll be requesting from the library; I wrote down a few websites about eco-living that I'll want to check out; I came up with two more ideas for blog posts; and I ended up making a mad dash to the library to reserve more books on Buddhism. Who knows what ideas will pop into my head that I'll want to explore in greater detail after a mad reading session.

I write all of this to offer ideas that might inspire you, but also to wonder where your inspiration for writing, learning, and, well, living come from. So, what inspires you? What motivates you to rework your lifestyle, read new things, or experiment with different concepts?

Time is a precious luxury, so I know we're all committed to making the most out of the time we have!

"To a Mountain in Tibet" Part One

2011-03-21T13:23:00.000-07:00

If a book could be accompanied by an audio soundtrack or "theme song," I think the song that would best fit Colin Thubron's newest book, "To a Mountain in Tibet," would be U2's "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For." I've only just begun reading it, but this is a powerful book with an important underlying theme that really resonates with me.

Colin Thubron is a British travel writer (I like to think of him as the British Paul Theroux, or Paul Theroux as the American Colin Thubron) who has produced such literary hallmarks as "Shadow of the Silk Road" and "The Lost Heart of Asia." What I love about his writing is that he is honest and straightforward, if even a bit of a curmudgeon at times, while fully immersing himself in and exploring the local culture. The reader knows that he is not taking this journey merely for the sake of selling a book; there is something deep and intrinsic that imbues his curiosity about the world, and it shines through in his books.

"To a Mountain in Tibet" is more than a travel narrative. While coping with his own familial loss, Thubron decides to undertake a pilgrimage to Mount Kailas in Tibet, a place that is sacred to one-fifth of humanity, according to the book-jacket (I'm sure this figure is true, but I'll have to verify it). An abbot Thubron encounters along the journey tells him about the mountain, "You know this is a mountain of great power. To travel there multiplies merit. The Buddha often flew there with his followers. And spiritual treasure-seekers meditated there - thousands of them- so its caves are full of blessing." The reader knows right from the beginning of the book that this is a special journey with a unique purpose. What is it that Thubron is searching for? What has compelled him to make this journey, to climb a mountain that no one ever has before? What is he hoping to find and will he, in fact, find it?

I haven't finished the book yet, so I don't know how the journey will end, but I understand and appreciate Thubron's quest already. Unlike many of the reviewers on GoodReads, I haven't found his writing to be depressing. Instead, I have found it to be introspective and highly personal. Aren't we all searching for something? That perfect job or experience that will make our life complete? Thubron is approaching this search inwardly, for he writes about the tenants of Buddhism in "To a Mountain in Tibet."

I've been very interested in Buddhism lately (that is another reason why I was drawn to this book), reading such works as "Zen Flesh, Zen Bones," "Living Buddha, Living Christ," and "Awakening the Buddha Within," which I highly, highly recommend. Buddhism really speaks to me even though I wasn't raised in a religious family. We didn't read the Bible or talk about God. (To this day, I don't think my sister has ever even opened a Bible.) Religion was just a non-factor. I remember when a friend from high school said to me, "I've known you all these years, but I don't know what you believe." I recall being absolutely dumbfounded by this question. Believe? What do I believe about what? I didn't have an answer for her, and I probably still do not. Yet, I've been drawn to Buddhism, mostly because the teachings of Buddhism are principles that I believe can fit in with anyone's life, whether s/he is spiritual or not. It's about being a better person, living a full life, being happy with you are, and exploring from within. "Help yourself," as the Buddha said.

So, is this why I believe Colin Thubron made that epic trek to Mount Kailas? Is he a "spiritual treasure-seeker?" And, did he find what he was looking for? I'll find out tomorrow...and I'll let you know!

Happy Birthday, Grace!

2011-03-21T13:04:00.000-07:00

One of the most influential figures in modern fashion celebrates her 70th birthday this April. Who is that, you might be wondering? Here are a few clues: 1) she's a redhead; 2) she's Welsh, and 3) she's arguably the world's greatest living stylist (at least she is according to Anna Wintour). I could only be referring to one person: the incomparable Grace Coddington.

In the April letter from the editor, Anna Wintour writes that Grace is "the fashion insider's heroine." This is most certainly true. Before R. J. Cutler's documentary, "The September Issue," put her on the map, so to speak, only people who were truly fanatical about fashion (folks like, um, me) knew about the work and genius of Grace Coddington. She is the Creative Director of Vogue (so second-in-command), but her work takes place behind the scenes. She doesn't write flashy articles about Gwyneth Paltrow or Amar'e Stoudemire like Plum Sykes or Hamish Bowles. She doesn't review the collections like Sarah Mower or contributors like Lynn Yaeger. Yet, her vision permeates every page of the magazine. It's her work that we really remember after sifting through each issue of Vogue. She is the magic-maker or dream-weaver, if you will. She creates the fantasy and she makes the enchanting world of fashion come to life. I don't know where the industry would be without her.

So, here's to you, Grace Coddington. Thank you for your work, your dedication, and your contribution to fashion. May you have another beautiful 70 years!

6

2011-03-10T10:04:00.001-08:00

Today is Brian's and my six-year anniversary. (Hurray!) It's hard to believe that we met and started dating six years ago today. We've been through a lot together, like most couples who have been together for five years or longer. There have been some terrible haircuts, horrible outfits, loud shoes, but a lot of happiness, too. I think that is because we really balance each other out. That cliché about opposites attracting might actually be true.

I think this was taken in 2007 at my friend Sarah's annual Christmas Party. This is one of those rare photos in which both people are looking at the camera, there is no glare from my glasses, and everyone is smiling.

Here we are having dinner with my dad. I think this was taken in 2005. The quality isn't as good because it was taken with a disposable camera and scanned. I didn't join the digital age until late in 2007, so most early photos of me and Brian are actually in photo albums and not on a desktop.

We're out celebrating one of my best friend's birthdays (Leah!) here. I'm drawing a complete blank on where this was taken, too. Maybe I do need Facebook, after all. I love the red lights in the background, though!

This was taken at Brian's younger sister's wedding in October 2009.

...and maybe the seventh year will finally be the charm for us!

Sarah Burton's Ice Queen and Court for McQueen

2011-03-09T11:51:00.000-08:00

The question over at Alexander McQueen, since the loss of the maestro himself, has been how much should Sarah Burton mesh her individual creativity with the vision that McQueen had himself for his label. After viewing her first complete solo collection for the house of Alexander McQueen, I think she did both perfectly. She married her talents and unique point of view with the raw genius of that of Alexander McQueen in the brilliantly-themed "The Ice Queen and Her Court" collection.

It was a collection of both light and airy and tough and edgy clothing, with little color. Nearly every shoe was a platform laced boot of white or black. Models also wore caps of feathers, fur hoods, and little visible makeup. The collection wasn't entirely wearable, but I don't think it needs to be. There is always a client for those who produce fanciful clothing. In fact, there is one dress in particular that I would be lining up to purchase...

I loved the opening look modeled by Freja as the Ice Queen herself.

I could see Daphne Guinness wearing this.

I hope that isn't real fur since I find this entire look highly wearable.

This looks like an ideal suit for the office to me.

Another gorgeous Ice Queen look. I wonder if Tilda Swinton's role in "The Chronicles of Narnia" was partial inspiration for this collection...

Just the slightest touch of color in this delicate lavender ensemble.

And the most beautiful, breath-taking dress of all. Sarah Burton must have a window into my dreams because this is exactly what I have envisioned wearing for a wedding. Time to start saving! I.want.this.dress.

(** all images from style.com**)

Vintage Linda Evangelista

2011-03-09T08:18:00.001-08:00

This photo of Linda Evangelista by Mario Testino is one of my absolute favorite fashion photos. It was taken for V Magazine in 2001 and also appeared in Testino's "Portraits" exhibit at London's National Portrait Gallery, where I snatched up this postcard in the museum gift shop. I love the neon green backdrop, the black lace headpiece, and, most of all, the expression on Linda's face. There aren't too many models like her around these days.

(** image: Linda Evangelista, V Magazine, 2001, Paris, Mario Testino; National Portrait Gallery, London**)

Jesus Statue Puts Swiebodzin on the Map

2011-03-04T11:21:00.001-08:00

What does the Polish city of Swiebodzin have in common with Rio de Janeiro? Both cities are home to the world's tallest statues of Jesus Christ. While Rio's world-famous "Christ the Redeemer" formerly held the title of World's Tallest Jesus Statue, Poland's "Christ the King" has now claimed this honor. The new statue in Poland stands at 33 meters tall, which represents one meter for each year of Christ's life. This statue of Christ also includes a giant crown, which puts the statue at 51 meters tall. Rio's Christ statue towers in at 38 meters tall and overlooks the whole of the city atop a mountain.

I would love to know what my Christian friends think of this trend in building large statues of Jesus Christ. Is it in poor taste? Is it a proud symbol of everlasting faith? According to The Christian Science Monitor, feelings are mixed in Poland with some Polish Catholics feeling that the statue represents "megalomania" and "grandiosity." Others, like Bishop Stefan Regmunt, believe that the statue is an affirming sign of faith. And, of course, local businesspeople (and likely tourism agents) hope that the iconography of the statue will attract more visitors to Poland.

I've dreamed of visiting Christ the Redeemer ever since I saw "The Chipmunk Adventure" as a young child. (I still tear up when I hear "Off to See the World.") And I'd love to see Christ the King, too, especially since it's in my motherland.

(** image from The Christian Science Monitor**)

Mum's the Word at Vogue

2011-03-03T12:05:00.000-08:00

Is anyone else surprised that no one from Vogue has released a statement about John Galliano? The incident has practically monopolized Cathy Horyn's writings for the Times this week. Editors from Italian Vogue and the International Herald Tribune have offered their insight and opinions on the matter. Natalie Portman was quick to condemn what Galliano said and to distance herself from Dior. Why hasn't anyone over at Vogue said anything? They haven't even acknowledged that the incident happened. I've checked their website (www.vogue.com) all week for headlines and...nothing. I know they're in the midst of Paris Fashion Week, but this will likely be the biggest issue confronting the fashion community all year. So, why are we hearing crickets on this matter from Vogue?

Anna, are you out there?

The End of an Era

2011-03-01T07:46:00.000-08:00

Well, it's official. John Galliano has been fired from Christian Dior over accusations of anti-Semitic comments. Who would have guessed that something like this would happen? I still can't believe how quickly this unfolded.

I have been hoping that there is more to the story than we are hearing, but after viewing the video of Galliano making those statements, I just don't know. I am deeply saddened to see Galliano's fantastic career come to an end (not to mention the ongoing defamation of his talent), but I'm even more disappointed to see someone I admired so much act in such a way. This is indeed the end of an era for many reasons.

I'm continuing to read up on this issue. There will no doubt be more discussion as it continues to develop.

(** image from style.com**)

And the Oscar for Best Dressed Goes To...

2011-02-28T09:20:00.000-08:00

This year's red carpet was filled with gorgeous fashions, but three women undeniably stole the show: Michelle Williams, Cate Blanchett, and new-comer Hailee Steinfeld.

Michelle Williams was utterly flawless in Chanel Couture. She nailed the entire look, from the perfect pixie haircut to the relatively jewelry-free embellishments. Red Carpet glamour doesn't get much better than this.

Cate Blanchett looked highly original in Givenchy. Some may have criticized the silhouette of this dress, but I loved it. I also thought it was true to the aesthetics that Blanchett is known for. It takes a certain style to carry off this dress, and Blanchett did so perfectly.

How refreshing is it to see a young woman in an entirely age-appropriate look? Hailee Steinfeld won over the masses not only for her Oscar-nominated role in "True Grit," but for her impeccable taste in choosing this beautiful Marchesa gown.

My other favorites included Gwyneth Paltrow in Calvin Klein, Halle Berry in Marchesa, and Scarlett Johansson in Dolce & Gabbana. I also loved all of the dresses that host Anne Hathaway wore throughout the show (but not the dress she arrived in- sorry, Valentino!). There were a few dresses that I didn't care for. Nicole Kidman's Dior just reminded me of a seashell. I thought Amy Adams could have improved her dark blue dress by removing the bold necklace and wearing her hair up. As for best dressed male? Andrew Garfield in Louis Vuitton, though I could be a bit biased by the fact that he is also quite handsome.

Other fashion high-notes included Colin Firth thanking Tom Ford in his acceptance speech (loved that!) and Natalie Portman thanking the Mulleavy Sisters (even if they weren't technically the costume designers) for their work in "Black Swan."

All in all, it was a very fashionable evening!

(** images from vogue.com**)

Prada's Ladylike Innocence

2011-02-25T09:39:00.000-08:00

It was such a thrill to watch the new Prada collection live yesterday. There's something so energizing about watching the models storm down the runway, wearing clothes never before seen. I loved the atmosphere and music, too. But now that the collection has been viewed, it's time to really think about what Ms. Prada presented.

The collection featured no pants, only skirts and knee-length dresses this time around. The clothing also had a dainty, childlike feel to it, or an "unattainable girlishness," as Tim Blanks put it. I really loved that element of the clothing, though! I adore youthful looks that require slim physiques (i.e. no bust) in order to successfully carry off. Despite the unassuming, ladylike aesthetics, the collection was undeniably provocative, with models decked out in python boots, fur, and sequins. There's nothing childlike about knee-high snakeskin boots! My favorite pieces were the dresses that featured giant plastic scales, leaving Tim Blanks to wonder if they were meant to portray serpents or mermaids. That's the genius behind Miuccia Prada: she always leaves you with something intellectual to ponder.

I agree with Blanks that there was something off-putting about the way the models clutched their bags. I love accessories, but maybe they could have done without the bags? Or at least without holding them in such a strange manner? I am crazy about those shoes, though!

Exquisite use of color! And there are those python boots that were referenced. There's definitely a juxtaposition between the young and the more sophisticated happening in this look.

I could see this as a prep school uniform, but the fur also gives it a much more advanced, grown-up feel.

Now we're moving into my favorite part of the collection. I thought the shimmering scales were brilliant. This look is flawless, and I'd wear everything from head to toe.

Can you tell that I really love yellow? The burgundy cap gives this look a bit of a twenties, flapper feel, but the boots seem reminiscent of the sixties. Regardless of era, this is perfection.

I really prefer seeing the clothes unobstructed by the handbags.

There's something very delicate about this final look. Gorgeous shoes, too.

Miuccia Prada explained that she was "curious about women" and wanted "to challenge their passion." It showed in this collection.

(** images and quotes from style.com**)

Breaking News: Galliano Suspended from Dior

2011-02-25T08:05:00.000-08:00

In case you've missed the breaking headlines in The New York Times and New York Magazine (and WWD, Vogue UK, etc.), news from France has just revealed that John Galliano has been suspended from his duties at Dior for allegedly making an anti-Semitic comment to a couple in Paris. The story is still unfolding but the details that I have read so far suggest that Mr. Galliano had been out at a café in the Marais district when the incident occurred. The exact details of the event are still not known, as sources from Vogue UK suggested another side to the story. Mr. Galliano had previously been drinking, however. According to The Cut, his blood alcohol level at the time of the incident was 1.0, with the legal limit for driving in Paris being 0.5.

Christian Dior released the following statement, as reported by Reuters: "Dior affirms with the utmost conviction its policy of zero tolerance toward any anti-Semitic racist words or behavior," Sidney Toledano.

Should Mr. Galliano be suspended from the company for the incident, though? I can see where Christian Dior is coming from. Dior is one of the biggest, most influential companies in the fashion industry and they can't have the face of the company be someone who makes racist remarks. On the other hand, in defense of Galliano, the incident was non-violent (i.e. he didn't attack anyone, no one was injured) and information is still inconclusive. Should his responsibilities be stripped because of hearsay? What do you think?

I really hope they can sort this out. We need the creative genius of John Galliano!

(** image from style.com**)

Prada Live from Milan

2011-02-24T09:20:00.000-08:00

We are truly witnessing the democratization of the fashion industry. The Fall 2011 Prada Collection will be streamed live from Milan any minute now. Actually, the show was scheduled to begin at noon, or 6 p.m. in Milan, but what respectable fashion show ever starts on time? It's kind of daunting to consider that those of us who are watching the live stream of the show will be able to view the new collection at the exact same time as, say, Anna Wintour, Anna della Russo, Anna Piaggi (wow, never considered how many "Anna's" there are in the biz), and celebrities and socialites alike. I think that's pretty exciting.

If you have access to a computer and want to catch the live show (or perhaps watch it later), T Magazine and New York Magazine's The Cut are both streaming the collection...as soon as it begins.

Happy viewing!

Street Style Four Ways

2011-02-23T12:29:00.000-08:00

Now that New York Fashion Week has ended, it's London's turn to showcase where they believe fashion is heading next. Admittedly, I'm a little behind in viewing all of the collections, both for NYFW and what has been presented so far in London. What I'm a little more interested in lately is what those attending the shows will be wearing. With the meteoric rising of personal style blogs, what you see worn at the shows is now as important as what you see presented at the shows themselves. Of the four major fashion capitals (New York, Milan, Paris, and London) London is in my mind always the leader when it comes to whimsical, original street style. Here's my assessment on all of the four majors:

LONDON: Check out blogger Phil Oh's excellent photos for Vogue from the opening days of London Fashion Week to get an idea of what puts London street style in a class unto itself. You have bright colors, patterns (even the banana-printed Prada that I thought would be impossible to wear!), mohair heels, creative hairstyles, neons, high and low looks, dressed up versus dressed down styles, and eccentric hair pieces. I just feel that London street style is all-inclusive and all-out adventurous. You can really only pull off some of these looks in London. Looking a little weird or "out there" is never a problem and Londoners always seem to be following their own beat when it comes to fashion. Maybe that's part of why I always feel so at home there.

NEW YORK: This is the place for dressed-up head-to-toe black looks. Stylish New Yorkers tend to be more formal than other fashion capitals and usually way ahead of the trends. Bill Cunningham is always able to hone in on what's happening in fashion by photographing the emerging trends here. What's up next? There's definitely something happening with the length of the skirt, as evidenced by Mr. Cunningham's recent photos here. So New York.

MILAN: The Italians pull off high-wattage glamour better than anyone else. This is the country that gave us Valentino, Armani, Gucci, Versace, Prada, Fendi, and Pucci after all. The stylish Milanese take fashion a step further than merely being dressed up. It's all about the glitz here.

PARIS: Parisians know more about fashion than just about anyone else. Charles Worth may have been British, but Gabrielle Chanel was French. The look here is elegant, understated, chic with a capital "C," and sophisticated. The French seem to appreciate fashion history as much as they understand where fashion is heading. The work that Karl Lagerfeld produces for Chanel year after year is certainly indicative of this. It doesn't change much, but it always looks fresh and new. I don't know how the Parisians do it.

(The above photo wasn't taken in any of the four fashion capitals, but it's my absolute favorite street style photo.)

Emma Watson's Bewitching Valentino

2011-02-22T11:18:00.000-08:00

I have a huge confession. I have not seen a single Harry Potter film in its entirety. Not a single one. I've tried many times to make it through the first movie, but I've fallen asleep every time. Conventional wisdom would indicate that I'd be a huge fan of the Harry Potter franchise. It takes place in England, my earthly paradise. It was filmed (partially) at Oxford University, where the greatest four months of my life took place. The main characters are enrolled in boarding school, which is one of my odd interests (I used to request catalogs from schools like Andover, Groton, and Western Reserve Academy for my younger brother...he wasn't so amused). I've even visited the real-life inspiration for Hogwart's in Edinburgh. Despite these similarities, I still haven't cottoned on to the lore of Harry Potter.

Yet, I find Emma Watson absolutely fascinating. Well, as far as actresses/ celebrities go. She is well-spoken, highly educated, academically ambitious, and fashion-forward. If she appears on the cover of a fashion magazine, I actually read the interview, as opposed to fast-forwarding through it like I do with 99% of other actor/actress interviews. I love that she is willing to take risks with fashion, even as a young woman. One need not look any further than her new pixie haircut for evidence of her daring nature. She has also carved out her own identity and aesthetics through fashion, which I find laudable. Take a look at this beautiful Valentino Couture confection that she recently wore to the British Academy Film Awards. Even Hermione would be impressed!

Maybe I'll try to watch the first Harry Potter movie one more time...

(** image from vogue.com**)

Hamish Bowles to Address the Oxford Union

2011-02-18T07:59:00.001-08:00

The world's most famous debating chamber is set to host one of the world's foremost experts on fashion next Wednesday, February 23rd. Hamish Bowles won't just be in Europe for the various fashion weeks of London, Milan, and Paris; he also has the privilege of being the invited guest at the Oxford Union. This exciting news has me contemplating both a ticket to London and a quick dusting off of my old Oxford Student ID.

The Oxford Union is one of those magical institutions that make Oxford so unique. It's a members-only club for which you pay hefty dues. This membership, however, gives you access to the excellent library, bar, student services, activities, and, of course, world-famous speakers. When I was at Oxford for the Hillary Term, I was thrilled that Sir Paul Smith would be one of the featured guests. I was actually able to shake his hand and mumble something about being an admirer of his work. I have other fond memories from the Oxford Union, though. I recall how my friends and I decided to participate in the OUSU (Oxford Union Student Union) pub crawl. I believe I still have the t-shirt for that event. What a fun night! And, of course, I enjoyed studying in the OU's library, which, while small, always had hidden nooks and crannies for quiet studiers.

Hamish Bowles mentioned on Vogue.com that he is excited for this opportunity, and he has every reason to be. By speaking at the Oxford Union, he'll be joining a prestigious list of guests that has included the Dali Lama, Mother Teresa, John McCain, Michael Jackson, Jon Bon Jovi, Clint Eastwood, W.B. Yeats, President Carter, Senator Robert Kennedy, and Stephen Hawking. In addition, twelve British Prime Ministers have either been members or officers in the Union, including Tony Blair and Margaret Thatcher. This place is steeped in history.

So, what might Mr. Bowles address at the Union? I would hope he would focus on his curatorial work for the Metropolitan Museum of Art, as well as his most recent project, "Balenciaga: Spanish Master" for the Queen Sofia Spanish Institute in New York. The fat that the Oxford Union has asked more and more people in the fashion community (I believe Anna Wintour was asked to speak two years ago) suggests to me that fashion is not frivolous and that it is a subject worthy of serious academic and intellectual thought. I hope Hamish Bowles will continue to convey that message when he meets with some of the UK's finest students next week.

A Candle for Hope

2011-02-17T11:55:00.000-08:00

Lighting the symbolic candle and hoping...and hoping...

Best in Show

2011-02-15T09:11:00.001-08:00

The models of New York Fashion Week aren't the only ones strutting their stuff on the runway this week. Monday also marked the beginning of another kind of fashion week: The 135th Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show. America's oldest and most prestigious dog show began yesterday and will culminate with the title of Best in Show awarded this evening. Although one dog in Westminster history has won the coveted honor of Best in Show three times, there is only one dog who is truly Best in Show to me. He is a champion Chihuahua whose beauty is only surpassed by his kind heart and genuine soul. He is a constant source of comfort, a lifelong companion, and the best friend a person could ever ask for.

His name is Magglio, but he is most commonly referred to as "the Popple" or any variety of the following nicknames: Poppsy, Pop Pop, the P.O.P., young pooch, the favorite, or the blessed pooch. He is sometimes referred to as a shaman or mystic because he possesses special, other-worldly powers. I sing songs or "Popple carols" in his honor and, because dogs are so tonal, I also have various songs that indicate mealtime, treats, walks, "business strolls," road trips, and the sighting of deer or squirrels.

The Popple and I do everything together. We go on nature walks, discuss philosophy or Buddhism (he's an excellent listener), eat together, read, etc. This has been a rather tumultuous, unhappy year for me, so he has always lent a shoulder for me to cry on as well (or perhaps it is the salty taste of tears that he really likes?). I often tease my boyfriend by saying that the Popple and I are soul mates who are on a life journey together. The only thing is, I'm not kidding.

Here he is in all of his glory:

He has a very contemplative nature. When he is not meditating (or sleeping), he can often be seen pondering the meaning of life (above) or suggesting answers to life's mysteries.

Much like his mother, he has a very trained eye for aesthetics. This coat is replete with an Edwardian collar, water-resistant fabric, and light-reflecting panels, so it is both functional and fashionable.

In order to maintain his statuesque physique, he is very conscious about what food he consumes. He is seen here overseeing the preparation of homemade cookies. Being the gourmand that he is, however, he shies away from most baked goods. A few of his favorite foods include fresh (not frozen!) shrimp lightly glazed in sugar, mature cheddar varieties from New Zealand and Ireland, water infused with the essence of cucumber or berry (only in the summer), and honey-roasted turkey breast.

One of his favorite hobbies is chewing rawhide sticks. He prefers to scatter half-chewed sticks around the apartment along with bits of kibble so that he is never far from a source of entertainment. We can't even begin to understand the complexities of his mind, so I never question his actions.

Sunbathing is another one of his daily pleasures, most often enjoyed with a member of his inner circle. Fox is currently his most trusted companion, so he is usually given the privilege of the Popple's company, as seen here. He just has an unrivaled zest for life.

In addition to being a soothsayer of sorts, he is also deeply compassionate and concerned about cultivating relationships with his coterie of stuffed animals. His circle of friends includes Fox (pictured above), Moose, Sheepe (his oldest advisor), Dragon (of Welsh origins), Pig, Hedgehog, Mallard, and the shunned Cow, who was unfortunately removed from his close circle for unknown reasons.

Weather-permitting, the Popple enjoys sitting on the balcony and communing with the natural elements. I am always astounded by his regal presence, as he demonstrates in this photo.

Being this magical can be exhausting, though. He requires much sleep, private meditation, and personal time in order to hone his inner being. Recently, Brian and I have begun discussing his many Buddha-like qualities. It is possible that someone so young (he just celebrated his fifth year) has already achieved enlightenment. He graciously shares his wisdom with other canines of his size and stature.

When I begin writing his biography, the title will likely take inspiration from St. Teresa of Avila's The Way of Perfection, for he is as close to perfection as can be achieved. Compassionate, selfless, generous, erudite, inspirational. The Popple embodies all of these qualities and so much more. There is no doubt that he is truly Best in Show.

Katie Couric Meets The Style Rookie

2011-02-11T13:51:00.000-08:00

The title of her blog might be a bit of a misnomer these days. She has sat front row at New York Fashion Week, met Karl Lagerfeld, been flown to Tokyo, and is getting ready to launch a magazine. Contrary to what her ironically-named blog might suggest, Tavi Gevinson is anything but a style rookie. She can now add being interviewed by Katie Couric to her long list of impressive teenage accomplishments.

In the March issue of Glamour, Katie Couric asks the 14-year old blogging-sensation the questions that anyone who is familiar with Tavi might be wondering. Who are her style influences? What inspires her own unique sense of fashion? How does she manage to be a normal high school student and jet around the globe attending fashion shows and industry parties? How does she handle the criticism she receives from fashion insiders? And, how did someone from a Chicago suburb fall into the world of high fashion?

Tavi thoughtfully answers all of these questions, while revealing herself to be someone who is genuinely intellectually curious about the world. One of my favorite comments from the entire interview was this one: "If I hear about something and I don't know what it is, I find out." I think intellectual curiosity is the single greatest attribute a person can have. Perhaps that is why Tavi is able to write about everything from the music of Bob Dylan to the eccentric fashions of Rei Kawakubo with such authority and zeal. I may have been skeptical when she first emerged on the fashion scene, but I think this interview may have won me over. If someone has the courage and conviction to follow his/her passions, not to mention succeed, that should be applauded.

Despite her high profile in the fashion community, Tavi also revealed that she has remained rather grounded. When asked if she plays sports, Tavi responded by saying, "Oh God, I'm awful at sports. In gym I just try and avoid getting hit in the face." That was basically my strategy during gym class! I used to get in trouble for hiding my note cards in my baseball mit or pockets during gym class. Hey, I didn't want to waste valuable study time! I also loved how she explained that her love for fashion is truly an outlet for her own creativity and personal exploration, which is how it should be. Nothing else has the power to transform quite like fashion.

In sum, this was an excellent interview. I really enjoyed reading Tavi's responses. Fortunately, Ms. Couric did not throw her a curve ball by asking her to name one of those books she's been reading. Though, I doubt Tavi would have had any difficulty doing so.

** interview quotations and photo from www.glamour.com**

How to Wear Prada Spring RTW

2011-02-07T11:02:00.000-08:00

You may recall that Prada Spring RTW 2011 was one of the more unorthodox collections to make its way down the runway. The collection included bright stripes of orange and magenta, prints of monkeys and bananas (???), and mismatched, seemingly unflattering palettes and silhouettes. Yet the young actress Hailee Steinfeld managed to pull off a look from the runway flawlessly. In fact, I didn't think it was possible for Prada Spring RTW to look this perfect. The dress suits her youthful vitality and the colors are incredibly flattering on her. She also looks magnificently age-appropriate and classy in this dress. This beautiful dress secured her a place in this week's list of the Ten Best Dressed on Vogue.com.

In contrast, here is the runway version of her dress.

I think model Valerija Kelava wears this dress incredibly well, but I find the real-life interpretation of the dress even more flattering and wearable. Then again, shouldn't great fashion translate well from the runway to reality? I might have to reconsider the merits of this collection after seeing the perfect interpretation of one of the runway looks.

(** top photo from vogue.com; bottom photo from style.com**)

A Walk Down Memory Lane

2011-02-03T09:56:00.001-08:00

On these particularly cold or dreary days, I like to reminisce about happier, sunnier times. Looking at old travel photos for my War and Peace post also inspired me to look at all of my old travel albums. I had so much fun scanning those photos, that I thought I would share some more travel memories. All of these photos are pre-digital camera, which has its flaws and perks. The flaws are that the quality is not as high and that the amount of photos I can take is greatly limited. The perks to taking photos without a digital camera, though, are that you actually develop the pictures, as opposed to leaving them on your computer or desktop for all eternity. I also miss the days of taking my camera to CVS and then waiting to see the developed pictures for the first time.

So here are a few fond travel memories!

One of my very first trips to Europe is still one of my absolute favorites. This picture was taken in the Boboli Gardens in Florence in April 2004. Toward the end of the Michaelmas term at Oxford, my friend Kristen and I left to backpack around Europe. Kristen planned the trip completely on her own (this was before I became the trip-planning master that I am now), booking all of the flights and arranging all of our accommodations (including two stays with friends of hers who were studying abroad in Florence and Rome). I hadn't planned on traveling outside the UK, but I've always been grateful to Kristen for the effort that she put into making that trip possible.

Here we are in Riomaggiore, a city in the Italian Riveria's Cinque Terre. Kristen's older brother had traveled to this part of Italy while he studied abroad, so Kristen made sure that we got to visit this picturesque part of Italy, too. We are preparing for the big hike between the cities in this photo. I'm wearing a cord blazer and leather trainers from the Banana Republic, which is about as casual as I ever get. Kristen was much better prepared for the long hike! (She's also sporting the official jumper of New College, the college that we were both visiting students in at Oxford.)

This beautiful picture was taken during the hike, which is still one of my fondest travel memories ever. We spent time in all of the cities (Corniglia, Manarola, Vernazza, and Monterosso al Mare), stopping for meals and, of course, gelato along the way. We also visited the beach and took a boat ride back to our starting point of Riomaggiore. Oh, and the trail was littered with dozens and dozens of cats.

After Italy, we flew from Rome to Barcelona for 15 euros. This was back when the budget airlines (Easyjet, Ryanair) actually were cheap, so it was easy and inexpensive to jet around Europe. I absolutely adored Barcelona! It was beautiful, clean, organized, and a wonderland of culture and art. Kristen and I also scored a huge deal at the Tourist Office (something I never visit), reserving a luxurious hotel for a fraction of the asking price. Having a decent place to stay when you're traveling can make a world of a difference! Anyhow, Barcelona was just magnificent. This photo was taken at Parc Guell, which was designed by Gaudi. I believe this bench is one of the longest benches in the world.

This picture was taken in another one of my favorite cities: Antwerp, Belgium. I visited Antwerp while I was in Belgium visiting my family in Brussels in May/June 2005. Antwerp is a fantastic city for lovers of fashion and art. I visited the Mode Museum and caught a glimpse of many of the original boutiques of the Antwerp Fabled Six, a group of designers who all graduated from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts around the same time (Ann Demeulemeester and Dries van Noten are probably the most well known). I really loved the setting for this photo, but I mostly took it for the Union Jack. Can you spot it?

While in Belgium, I also decided to take a little weekend trip to nearby Amsterdam. My aunt booked the train ticket for me and dropped my off at the small station in Waterloo. I didn't have any plans beyond that (no booked accommodations, etc.). I ended up meeting a group of American students in one of the connecting stations who were traveling from Paris to Amsterdam. After chatting for a bit, I asked if I could tag along with them in Amsterdam. That is definitely one of the perks of solo travel- you never know who you're going to meet. Both my sister and I traveled solo to Amsterdam, making friends (in my case) and encountering highly unusual characters (in my sister's case). This picture was taken in front of the Rijksmuseum. Any traveler to Europe knows that those "statues" are inescapable.

Back in the UK. I visited Windsor and Eton during the summer of 2005. While my term at Oxford included many side trips around England (Cambridge, Stonehenge, Warwick Castle, Stratford-upon-Avon), I had not made it to Windsor yet. The trip from London was a short 30-minute train ride, even with the British Rail being partially closed for repairs. I walked around the castle with two American students and then made my way to Eton College. I have a minor obsession with prep/ boarding schools, medieval colleges, and the Ivy League, so I had dreamed of visiting Eton since my middle school days. It was as idyllic as I had always imagined.

I made it back to London, unknowingly, in time for the Trooping of the Colour, which is the Queen's official birthday celebration. While walking around Buckingham Palace, I met an older English couple who lived in London and attended the celebration every year. They told me where to stand for the best photo ops of the Royal Family. It's hard to tell, but Prince William and Prince Harry are the two wearing tall hats in the carriage in this picture. Camilla Parker-Bowles is sitting across from them. After the processional, airplanes fly over the palace and the entire Royal Family waves to the public. I was so happy to be able to experience English pageantry in all its glory.

Here is the Royal Castle of Warsaw, which my sister and I visited during our trip to Poland in February/ March 2006. It was bitterly cold while we were there, but we had a fantastic time exploring our heritage. Up to this point, Poland was probably the most foreign place we had visited. During our stay in Warsaw and Krakow, we only met two other Americans (a father and daughter who were traveling around Eastern Europe), yet the Polish people that we did meet were incredibly kind and helpful to us. On the public transit (a small above-ground bus line), we met a librarian at the University of Warsaw who offered to ride the tram with us until we made it to the Old Town Square from our hotel. We were definitely able to practice our Polish, but almost every young person spoke flawless English. Imagine being Polish and traveling to the U.S. without being able to speak English!

I can't wait to go back to Poland when it's a bit warmer.

After Krakow, we flew to Berlin, which is another impressive city. I loved how modern and cosmopolitan Berlin was. We visited the Film Museum because my sister is a huge film buff. It was probably one of the most unique museums I have ever visited- interactive and filled with exhibits on every aspect of the film industry in Germany.

We took an audio guided tour of the enormous Schloss Charlottenburg Palace in Berlin. What I loved most about the Palace was how every single room had its own unique purpose and design. There was a "Chinese Room," a "winter room," a "ballroom." I just loved the ornate details and decorations. It certainly gave me inspiration for my own future abode!

What are some of your fondest travel memories?

Fashioning Twitter

2011-02-01T13:17:00.000-08:00

I'm starting to wonder if I fled Twitter too hastily. I haven't missed Facebook one bit, but then again, Facebook didn't give me access to the musings of such fashion-people as André Leon Talley, Carine Roitfeld, Lauren Santo Domingo, Anna Della Russo, and models like Carmen Kass and Agyness Deyn. Granted, I only used Twitter a handful of times, but it was rather interesting to read the casual thoughts from such influential people in the industry.

Who else in the industry is on Twitter these days? Vogue.com just had a great post on that titled "Beauty is A-Twitter" by Ana Dragovic. Dr. Lisa Airan, for instance, is now tweeting. I've admired her since her very first Vogue appearance back in Amy Astley's piece, "The Doctor Wore Prada," in 2001. I always thought she seemed so cool. I loved that she was completely self-made, too. A Northwestern medical grad, she's now one of the most famous dermatologists in NYC, not to mention a fixture on the social and fashion scenes. Julie Macklowe, who has been profiled in Harper's Bazaar and featured in Vogue for her collection of ball gowns and high-end fashion, is also tweeting. Voguettes Meredith Melling Burke and Sarah Brown are also on Twitter, as are models Arlenis Sosa, Jessica Stam, Miranda Kerr, Coco Rocha, Hilary Rhoda, and Chanel Iman.

In just a few minutes exploring what tweets I could see without a Twitter account, I picked up news that Barneys NYC had appointed Amanda Brooks as the new fashion director (Is Simon Doonan still there?). I also came across this gem from TheLSD: "It's not so much the angry rhetoric in politics today, but the liberal use of "flair" on politicians' lapels that offends me so..." Finally- a statement on politics that actually interests me!

With all of the fun fashion quips on Twitter, I just might consider tweeting again!

(** image from http://www.thetop10blog.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/09/Twitter_Birds_rasterized.png **)

War and Peace (and fashion?)

2011-02-01T08:59:00.000-08:00

Today marks the inaugural day of my February Book Project. Actually, given the length and significance of this book, it's more like my February and March Book Project. You've probably guessed from the title of this post that I'll be reading War and Peace over the next few weeks. This is my little treat for having completed all of my MA and PhD applications. I've been looking forward to reading it for some time, so there seems like no better time than the present to begin one of the greatest books ever written.

There are a few reasons why I have been looking forward to this book so much. I'll start with the most important first. My family is of Russian and Polish descent, and we are extremely (extremely) proud of this heritage. My sister and I are only second-generation American on our paternal grandfather's side. Our Polish and Russian ancestry runs deep. My great-grandfather was a cossack in the Russo-Japan War of 1904. Once upon a time, my father had a fantastic photo of him wearing the traditional cossack uniform. Dad is still hoping to track down this photo. My great-grandfather has another claim to fame of sorts, but the story is so scandalous that you'll have to message me for the details. Growing up, my dad said that they only spoke of this story in hushed whispers. Like most immigrant families in 1950s Cleveland, my dad grew up with someone they referred to as a "D.P." What is a "D.P," you ask? My dad said that a D.P. was a "displaced person" from the Old Country who came over to the U.S. usually by himself. As such, this person took shelter with another immigrant family. My dad said that almost every family in his neighborhood had a D.P. from Russia, Poland, Hungary, etc. I think history like this is fascinating. Preserving Russian and Polish culture is immensely important to us. My dad and uncle support ethnic restaurants, we read Polish and Russian literature, and we try to keep these stories alive.

My sister and I made our first visit to Poland in the winter of 2006. That's me in the below photo in the middle of the Old Town Square.

The dead of winter really isn't the best time to visit Poland (it was freeeeezing!), but we were committed to experiencing part of our heritage. We flew from London Luton (not my favorite of London's airports, to say the least) to Warsaw on Wizz Air. Laura and I were the only Americans aboard the plane, and when we landed everyone clapped. We were a bit more organized for this trip than we usually are. We had hotel reservations in Warsaw and Krakow (we usually land somewhere and "free style" it), followed by plans in Berlin. Poland was pretty magical, though. We visited the Royal Castle in Warsaw and the Wawel in Krakow, which probably made for my all-time favorite travel memory. The food was also delicious. I usually eat pierogies two to three times a week, so to be able to eat them in my Motherland was a real treat. My sister had the biggest pot of goulash, wheeled over on a cart, that I have ever seen while we were in Krakow. The favorable exchange rate made all of these little delicacies possible. We had such an enchanted time in Poland that Laura and I joked we'd be the first of our family to actually return to the Old Country. We came (to the U.S.), we saw....we returned. Next up, we're hoping to spend some time in Russia, ideally taking the Trans-Siberian Rail from Moscow to Beijing.

Aside from the obvious cultural and ethnic connections to a writer like Tolstoy, I'm looking forward to tackling another challenging book. War and Peace is also somewhat relevant in the fashion community. When I met with an editor from Teen Vogue back in 2009, she said that she was currently making her way through War and Peace, as were other editors. And, Lauren Santo Domingo said that War and Peace was her favorite book and that she had read it 13 (13?!) times in an issue of Vogue. Because the book is also one of the greatest sources of life across all socioeconomic backgrounds in Russia, I'm hoping to zone in on some elements of material culture in the book. If I can write about my findings in a way that won't bore you to tears, I may write about them in another blog post.

And, now, with all of that being said, it's time to begin reading!

(** Both photos were taken by me during my trip to Poland in 2006. This was before I had a digital camera, so I scanned these photos from the originals. The top photo was also taken in the Old Town Square of Warsaw. One side of this Square actually shares my surname.**)

Valentino: The Prettiest Couture Collection of Them All

2011-01-28T09:26:00.000-08:00

The work that Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri are creating at the helm of Valentino just keeps getting better. When a famous designer leaves a fashion house, especially when that designer is the label's creator, there is so much pressure on the label's successor (i.e. Yves Saint Laurent taking over at Dior, Tom Ford replacing Yves Saint Laurent, Sarah Burton carrying on Alexander McQueen's legacy). Yet, Piccioli and Chiuri have not only retained the style elements that Valentino himself established so firmly, but they have also brought their own unique vision to the brand, as Tim Blanks pointed out in his review for style.com. Their couture collection for Spring 2011 was another outstanding example of this.

What I love most about this collection is its overall feminine and delicate mood. I love pieces that are overtly feminine- bows, ruffles, satin, etc. I adore it all. The color palette of soft ivory, pale pinks, and nude tones was also pitch perfect. Of course, there were a few dresses in Valentino Red, but overall the shades were ethereal and light. The impeccable craftsmanship, however, is what separates the couturiers from the amateurs, and Piccioli and Chiuri are above all else couturiers.

Look 24, modeled by Kamila Filipcikova, is my absolute favorite dress from the entire collection. I love the one-shoulder silhouette, the ruffled collar made of butterfly cut-outs (genius!), the bow at the waist, and most of all, those dazzling shoes. All of the shoes in this collection were flawless, but this is my favorite pair.

Is this not the prettiest dress you have ever seen? Again, I am in love with that butterfly neck piece!

This dress has a vintage, antique feel to it that I am always happy to see on the runway. Wasn't it Valerie Steele who said that designers need to have knowledge of fashion history in order to create the clothing of tomorrow? It was something to that effect, and I completely agree.

I am reminded of the Valentino dress that Michelle Williams wore to the Golden Globes when viewing this delicate black and ivory number. While sartorially stunning, the dress did not receive many accolades outside of Vogue. I, of course, loved it almost as much as this soft dress.

I find myself taking a trip down memory lane with this ensemble, too. My friend Emily wore a pleated skirt just like this one when we were in college. Hers was not sheer, but it did have the same diaphanous feel to it as this Valentino creation. Everyday is a runway, after all!

Again, we have all of the new Valentino signatures encompassed in one breathtaking dress.

This collection was just so beautiful! I would dress like this everyday if I could. Encore!

(**photos from style.com**)

Time for Spring Couture Already?

2011-01-25T08:49:00.000-08:00

It's a little difficult to become excited about spring when there are mounds and mounds of snow outside. Yet, fashion constantly pushes us forward, ushering in season after season of new looks. I only just finished digesting the RTW shows, but it's already time for another round of collections. Ready or not, here's a brief glimpse of Dior Spring 2011 Couture.

My countrywoman, Magdalena Frackowiak (yes, she's Polish!), looks fantastic in this dark navy and pale blue dress. The styling, while reminiscent of Fall 2010 Couture, is still impeccable in my eyes.

Could anyone else picture the former Betty Draper in this ensemble? I love the structured jacket and pleats, but most of all, I am crazy about a cinched waist. Perfect!

This has a conservative playfulness about it that I can really appreciate. It's also incredibly feminine and delicate. Galliano's range never fails to astound.

This soft confection looks like it was made for the red carpet. Tailored to the knee, it's the perfect multi-purpose dress for the office, social engagements, travel, shopping, etc., etc. It can be next to impossible to find the utility in couture sometimes, but it is meant to be worn, yes?

I kept coming back to this metallic knee-length number. I particularly like the effect of the bubble on the skirt. I have a piece like that and it's one of my most-worn items.

And, the man behind the magic. Is John Galliano not the coolest person on the planet, or what? I don't know when or how, but I'm going to meet him someday.

To view Galliano's full collection for Dior Spring 2011 Couture, head on over to style.com, the site from whence these beautiful photos came.

Flawless Rodarte

2011-01-24T11:01:00.000-08:00

Kirsten Dunst wore one of my favorite dresses of the year to the recent Art of Elysium Heaven Gala. The dress by Rodarte is an ethereal blend of colors, patterns, and textures: mint green mixed with jade and turquoise, heavy fabrics encased by soft satin, and bold prints balanced out by faded details. The Mulleavy Sisters are always quick to say that the idea for a dress came to them in a dream, but this beautiful frock looked like it truly was inspired by a heavenly deep slumber. Absolute perfection!

(** photo from vogue.com**)

The Wisdom of Samantha Brown

2011-01-24T09:39:00.000-08:00

She can usually be found jet-setting around the world, staying in fabulous luxury hotels, and visiting the best of what the planet has to offer. This past weekend, however, Samantha Brown came to Columbus, Ohio. She spoke at the AAA Travel Expo, which was located downtown. My friend Leah, who is both a travel agent and avid traveler, invited me to attend the Expo with her.

I was really looking forward to hearing Samantha Brown speak. I've been watching her shows since "Great Vacation Homes," but it was her "Passport to Europe" series that really won me over as a fan. I love how her travel experiences, while rarefied and highly unique, are described in her personable way, making her show strangely relate-able. She makes it seem like anyone can travel and have these life-changing experiences. She conveyed exactly this message when she spoke at the Expo.

I found two topics during her presentation to be deeply profound. First, she spoke about how her travel experiences have given her more confidence in every aspect of her life. I've found the same to be true from my own experiences. Traveling to another country definitely requires a certain level of confidence, especially when you are traveling by yourself or without the comfort and ease of an organized tour. My sister and I have both traveled around Europe by ourselves, sometimes arriving in a city without any reservations or concrete plans at all. Traveling like a vagabond forces you out of your comfort zone, allowing you to meet people that you otherwise never would have spoken to. You also have to figure out every single detail of your travels completely on your own, building problem-solving and communication skills. There is a sense of accomplishment that comes with this kind of travel that I'm not sure can be achieved any other way.

Secondly, Samantha (we're on a first-name basis now) spoke about how important and vital traveling really is. She stressed that it is not some frivolous act merely for the privileged few, but an opportunity to greatly improve one's life. I couldn't agree more! I find it so upsetting when traveling is downcast as a "vacation" or considered prodigal and wasteful. Any opportunity to explore the world and see how other people live is a worthwhile one.

While I loved Samantha Brown's presentation (even the somewhat awkward Q&A from strange members of the audience...), there was one huge downside to it that Leah and I discovered. Our minds were spinning with all of the places we want to visit!

Thank you, Samantha Brown!

(P.S. How fabulous is her dress?! I love it!)

Mrs. O Radiates in McQueen

2011-01-20T06:26:00.000-08:00

Please allow me to be the ten thousandth person to comment on how beautiful First Lady Michelle Obama looked in her red Alexander McQueen dress at the state dinner for China's President Hu Jintao. She looked absolutely regal in this dress! Who knew there was a political figure in the U.S. fashion-forward enough to pull off a gown by McQueen?!

Mrs. O always looks wonderful at official dinners and functions, but she really needed to step it up a notch for this particular event, given who would be in attendance. The guest list for the dinner included a diverse array of leaders from all facets of industry: politicians (Hillary and Bill), celebrities (Barbara Streisand, Michelle Kwan), and fashion professionals like Anna Wintour and Vera Wang. Celebrated musician Yo-Yo Ma was there, too. As far as I could tell, no one in the room looked as radiant as Mrs. Obama. Ms. Wintour looked chic, but not statuesque like our First Lady.

I love that we have a First Lady who both has fun with fashion and is a friend to the fashion industry. Not since Jackie Kennedy have we seen a First Lady make this much of a statement with fashion. We'll be talking about Mrs. Obama's influence on fashion for decades to come, no doubt.

So, what is it with the D's and fashion? They just always get it right!

(** photo from nyt.com**)

Into the Gloss: High Fashion Meets the World of Beauty

2011-01-19T10:05:00.000-08:00

Visitors to the new beauty website, "Into the Gloss," can be forgiven for thinking that the page resembles the clean, organized layout of that other fashion powerhouse website, Vogue.com, for the site was created by Vogue alumna, Emily Weiss. What makes Into the Gloss such a unique site is that it combines elements of beauty, style, and personal adornment with a high-fashion, yet relaxed feel. There aren't many websites run by individuals that can attract the likes of Sally Singer, Anna Della Russo, Karlie Kloss, Genevieve Jones, and Arizona Muse, just to name a few. Yet, Into the Gloss provides interviews, photos, and commentary from some of the fashion industry's leading professionals. I've also noticed that Derek Lam has commented on the site. Not too shabby, eh?

Into the Gloss creator Emily Weiss interned with Teen Vogue before leaving for the greener pastures of Teen Vogue's older sister, Vogue, where she worked as a fashion assistant. I haven't noticed her name on the recent masthead, but I believe she may still be contributing or freelancing for the publication. Either way, she received great support from Vogue when she launched the site late in 2010. Since then, the blog has featured new makeup from Chanel, Lancome, and Revlon; makeup and beauty advice from insiders like Vogue's Kelly Connor and Marie-Amélie Suavé; and new products from Korres and Breydo Parfums.

Being associated with Vogue certainly means that Ms. Weiss is privy to many products and people that someone with a different kind of professional background truly wouldn't be. She hears and sees what is new first. So, if you're interested in the inside scoop in the high-fashion world of beauty, Into the Gloss is the site for you. Since one never knows who or what will appear on the site next, it definitely makes Into the Gloss one to watch.

(** photo from intothegloss.com**)

20 More Places to Visit in 2011

2011-01-18T08:20:00.000-08:00

If you're still making travel plans for 2011, National Geographic Traveler also has some suggestions for you. The magazine's twenty recommendations are off the beaten path, adventurous, and, like a few of the NYT's recommendations, a tad suspect. (Apparently every publication thinks Americans should be heading to Kurdistan and Tunisia this year...?) Overall, I really enjoyed these travel suggestions and would love to add them to my very long list of places to visit in my lifetime.

1) Mongolia

Why? To visit the Gandan Monastery, view Stone and Bronze Age artifacts, and attend the Naadam Festival.

2) Plitvice Lakes, Croatia

When my sister and I were in this area of Croatia, we were propositioned about a million times to take a boat ride out to see the national park and lakes region. The price they offered was outrageous, so we unfortunately had to decline the usurious offer. Maybe we should have made the splurge? Nat Geo seems to think it's a place worth visiting.

3) Sardinia, Italy

I'm already sold on this gorgeous island. I bought a used copy of the DK Sardinia guide a few years ago and have been wanting to visit ever since. I'd like to get beyond the Costa Smeralda, though.

4) Tasmania

I don't think many American tourists venture to Australia's smallest state, which is, geographically, south from Melbourne. Nat Geo says it is a year-round destination due to its maritime climate.

5) Namibia

Etosha National Park and Mundulea Nature Reserve are two highly recommended sanctuaries for viewing the nation's diverse ecosystems. I'd love, love, love to go to Africa.

6) Laos

It seems like Southeast Asia is perennially popular. Just a few years ago, the New York Times chose Luang Prabang as the top must-see destination.

7) Tunisia

Hmmm...I'm not sure that 2011 is the best time to visit this North African nation after all. When a country makes it on to the State Department's list (i.e. a list of places not to go), it should probably be removed- at least temporarily- from your list. Sorry, Tunisia. We'll have to catch you in 2012.

8) Papua New Guinea

There's no doubt that this remote nation enchants and fascinates travelers. It's way off the beaten path and hard to reach in a myriad of ways. Nat Geo does not recommend going solo, however.

9) Kurdistan, Iraq

I wonder if the NYT and Nat Geo were in cahoots on this one. I am sure that this is a culturally rich nation worthy of study and appreciation, but now might not be the best time to go. Whenever I mention going to a place like this (i.e. Siberia, Burma, Columbia) to my father, he always reminds me that there are millions of places to consider going right now before putting yourself in potential danger. In other words, wait until the turmoil has dissipated; then visit.

10) Black Sea Coast, Crimea

This one-time "Russian Riveria" is "still a mystery" to most North American travelers, according to National Geographic Traveler. I'm intrigued by the "cultural crossroads blending ancient Greek and Roman, Byzantine, Russian, Tatar, and modern Crimean history and architecture."

To view the other selections, check out the full feature here.

(** The above photo is of the harbor in Pula, Croatia.**)

Golden Globes: Tilda Swinton in Jil Sander

2011-01-17T11:06:00.000-08:00

As soon as I saw Tilda Swinton's austere white and yellow dress at the Golden Globes, I immediately knew it was Jil Sander. The look- which may have actually been a long blouse tucked into a floor-length skirt- was so simple and understated that it couldn't have been designed by anyone but Raf Simons for Jil Sander.

Was this ensemble a hit or a miss, though? Ms. Swinton is certainly known for wearing unusual, unique pieces on and off the red carpet. There is no doubt that she can carry off this look, which few people could, so it definitely suits her. I just wonder if it was possibly too spartan for an awards show like the Golden Globes. Perhaps a short-sleeved Jil Sander ensemble, like the one Kate Bosworth recently wore, would have been a bit more fetching? I'm not sure. Maybe it's the balloon-shaped sleeves that made the dress feel awkward to me? At any rate, the fashion powers that be over at Vogue were smitten with the look, listing Tilda Swinton among the night's best dressed.

What is your impression of this look from Jil Sander?

(** photo from vogue.com**)

The Best of the Pre-Fall Collections

2011-01-17T09:35:00.000-08:00

Besides the fabulous Nina Ricci collection for Pre-Fall 2011, there hasn't been a singular, complete collection that I have loved quite as much. In viewing the looks for pre-fall, I've come across bits and pieces that I have found interesting. Here are a few of my stand-out favorites:

I am so fond of this sophisticated look from Valentino! My adoration stems mostly from that glorious leather jacket, but I also really love the trousers, too.

This short, sequined dress by Matthew Williamson is just so much fun. I love it with those tan ankle booties, but I'd love to see it with textured tights and flats.

When Plum Sykes was on the prowl for what she deemed a "Forever Wardrobe," she turned to bespoke Stella McCartney for the suit and Giambattista Valli for the dress. Is there any wonder why? Valli's artfully-crafted pre-fall collection was filled with sexy dresses, tailored coats, and couture-like craftsmanship that you just can't find anywhere else. The above dress was one of my favorite looks.

I'm not sure about my overall impression of the Louis Vuitton collection, but I really loved the above looks. The collection clearly took inspiration from the 1920s (my favorite period!), with flapper-esque dresses and sequins. I'm still digesting everything, though.

Phoebe Philo did a terrific job over at Celine. This outfit has the classic conservatism of an English equestrian ensemble, with the subtle sophistication of a cool Parisian bon vivant.

I was really bamboozled by the Bermuda shorts and eclectic prints over at Proenza Schouler but I couldn't deny the beauty of many of the dresses (like this one) that they presented. Let's see what they turn out for the fall collections...

There honestly wasn't much that caught my eye from The Row, but this impeccable leather suit strikes me as the sort of investment piece that one could have in a closet for a lifetime.

(** photos from style.com**)

The Opinion of Fashion

2011-01-14T12:06:00.000-08:00

After reading several very catty comments on personal style blogs like "What I Wore" (a terrific blog, by the way!), I started thinking about the role of criticism in fashion and the value of those opinions. Does every opinion matter? Can opinions carry factual statements with them? Can we qualify certain opinions above others? And does criticism add value to the canon of fashion, meaning does certain criticism cause us to look at fashion or art in a new way?

When I worked in the Senate, one of my colleagues (and friends) caused me to think about the word "opinion" more in-depth. If a person made a comment to describe the sky as "cloudy" or "light blue," this colleague would counter that that was merely an opinion, not to be considered as empirical or factual. Pronounce a word a certain (correct) way? Just an opinion. Use an adjective to describe a person or action? Again, just an opinion. One of our senior staffers even joked that if Jesus Christ Himself were to appear before this person, he would argue with Him. At first I was frustrated by this annoying behavior. How can we rely on the dictionary and apply those words to real-world concepts and ideas if every use of that word is not factual? How can we understand the word "beautiful" if we cannot apply it to its dictionary counterpart? The frustration slowly evaporated into utter curiosity and fascination. This was a dilemma for Noam Chomsky! Maybe the famed linguist could explain to us Senate folks how to properly use words without having them downcast as mere opinions.

Then I started to wonder if certain opinions meant more than others. Say, for instance, that a fourteen-year old declares that Shakespeare was a hack. Will this opinion cause us to reevaluate the literary canon and Shakespeare's role in it? Well, no, of course not. How about if respected book critic Michael Dirda reviews a book and declares that it is mediocre? Is this an opinion that matters? It certainly carries more weight than most opinions, that's for sure. But, are his statements factual?

So, how does all of this relate to fashion? Well, since everyone is a fashion critic these days, are there certain criticisms that should be valued above others and can we take those opinions as facts? Should Jessica Quirk (the blogger behind the popular site "What I Wore") be offended when a commenter dismisses her outfit? Should the fashion commentary of bloggers like Tavi or BryanBoy carry any weight or hold relevance with the more seasoned criticism of Cathy Horyn or Lisa Armstrong? Does it matter if someone who knows very little about fashion describes the recent Prada collection as "hideous?" What if that person is Cathy Horyn? Does that opinion matter then? When are opinions more than just opinions- when are they facts? And, when do these opinions or criticisms cause us to look at fashion, art, dance, theater, performance, or anything that can be evaluated in a new light?

And, finally, who will be the next visionary to challenge the way we understand and interpret modern fashion?

What are your thoughts on the roles and relevance of opinions and criticism in fashion and the arts? Which ones do you value and which ones do you hold as factual?

Vogue Interiors

2011-01-11T11:27:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite new features on vogue.com is "Apt with LSD," where Lauren Santo Domingo takes readers inside the homes of such people as Amanda Brooks, Samantha Boardman, Coca Rocha, and now herself. This week's installment of the popular series included a look at the glamorous Flatiron loft of LSD and her husband, with photos by Vogue alumna Claiborne Swanson Frank.

I love the use of unusual and unsuspecting pieces as art or furniture, like the tall glass beaker in the first photo, for instance. The placement of the giant giraffe skull also adds another dynamic to the eclectic room. I also enjoyed the various artistic incarnations of her dog- both the bronze statue and the Lego likeness. My favorite piece would definitely be the Lalanne hippo that opens into a full bar. What a great idea! Oh, that same room photo also contains artwork by Salvador Dali and Max Ernst.

Is it any wonder that this apartment is as chic as the owner herself?

To view the full photo slideshow, click here.

(** photo by Clairborne Swanson Frank, vogue.com**)

In Love With Nina Ricci Pre-Fall 2011

2011-01-11T08:32:00.001-08:00

If the purpose of the pre-fall collections is to excite the buyers and pique their curiosity for the fall collections, then Peter Copping more than succeeded at Nina Ricci. He presented 19 chic, sophisticated, and wearable looks in a stunning palette ranging from bright tomato red to subdued navy. He also presented an outfit for every occasion in his client's life: the tailored skirt suit for the office, the whimsical and flirty cocktail dress for social engagements, the Red Carpet dress, and the edgy feathered look for the Carine Roitfelds among us. I can't come up with a single thing about this small collection that I dislike. Here are a few of my favorites:

This is how I picture my most fabulous self sauntering down rue Cambon in Paris. Trés, trés chic! And I love that red!

This ethereal look has remnants of Chanel in it. It strikes me as the perfect outfit for the ballet. I also adore the black shoes, which make it a bit edgier and pulled-together.

What a show-stopper! The lacy back of this dress is just exquisite- pure perfection.

This looks like the sort of eclectic frock Natalie Portman would wear to a premier or awards show. I'd love to wear it out on the town!

This might be my favorite look from the collection. I love the layered chiffon tiers, and there's something about that hat that just pulls the entire look together.

No, this is my favorite look from the collection. Undeniably chic and oh-so Parisian.

Peter Copping had pretty big shoes to fill in replacing Olivier Theyskens, but he has lived up to the challenge yet again. I can't wait to see what he has in store for us with the fall collections!

(** photos from style.com**)

"The Warhol Treatment"

2011-01-10T19:23:00.000-08:00

By now, I'm sure just about everyone has seen Tatler's February cover of Kate Middleton receiving, artistically, what has been dubbed "the Andy Warhol treatment." (I think the Daily Mail first came up with that one?) I googled the phrase "Kate Middleton Tatler cover" in images and was overwhelmed with a screen of Kate's lovely faces in pink, yellow, and green. This image is everywhere.

Iconography aside, I love this cover. It's one of the best Tatler covers I've seen in awhile and it's one of the most memorable magazine covers in the past few years, too. It's eye-catching and Kate looks fantastic. Tatler definitely struck gold with this one. I doubt many people in the U.S. read this British gossip + fashion + society magazine, but plenty will start. I haven't bought an issue of Tatler in a few years (no particular reason), but I'll certainly be racing to the newsstand to buy the February issue!

The NYT's 41 Places to Visit in 2011

2011-01-08T13:22:00.001-08:00

The article that I look forward to every year in the Times is finally out: their round-up of the best places to visit for the year. For 2011, they have selected a combination of 41 up-and-coming destinations, familiar cities that are suddenly "hot" again, and some rather unexpected and exotic places. The cities they choose never fail to surprise me. Here are a few of the destinations that the NYT recommends travelers visit in 2011:

- Santiago, Chile (a place that certainly made headlines in 2010)

- Port Ghalib, Egypt

- Dresden, Germany

- Tozeur, Tunisia

- Hangzhou, China

- Iraqi Kuridstan (There are always a few questionable choices and this might be the most suspect recommendation for 2011. It's pretty difficult for an American to get a visa to that part of the world!)

- Kosovo

- Okinawa, Japan

- Koh Samui, Thailand (Two of my friends were actually married here in 2009!)

- Republic of Georgia

- Cali, Columbia

Of the 41 places, I've been to five:

- Iceland (where the above photo was taken)

- Milan (Of all the wonderful cities in Italy that there are to explore, I'm not sure I'd recommend Milan. It's a great city, but Italy has, in my opinion, many more exciting and beautiful places to visit.)

- London (Is there ever a bad time to visit the world's greatest city?)

- Antwerp, Belgium (Great fashion city!)

- Durham, NC

Places I'd really like to visit:

- Melbourne, Australia (I've heard nothing but superlatives in reference to this Australian gem.)

- Budapest (a perennial favorite, no doubt)

- Sopot and Gdansk, Poland (My family is from Gdansk, so I'd love to go back to Poland and head north this time.)

- Erzurum, Turkey (Turkey has been so hot lately. Everyone I know is going there.)

- Tallinn, Estonia

- Singapore

- Oualidia, Morocco

- Zanzibar

And there were quite a few North American destinations:

- Olympic Park, Washington

- Miami

- Oahu

- Whistler, British Columbia

- San Juan Islands, Washington

- Loreto, Mexico

- Park City, Utah

Those are a few of the places that the NYT has suggested travelers visit in 2011. To read the full selections and the rationale behind each choice, visit the full article here.

Where are you off to in 2011? Have you been to any of the places the NYT recommends that you visit? Would you counter their recommendation or concur with it?

As always, happy travels!

Fashion Projects: Collecting Fashion

2011-01-06T16:56:00.000-08:00

In the future, I want to avoid re-posting articles that have already been published on the web, but this article on collecting fashion in Fashion Projects is just too important to miss. It also features commentary from some fashion heavy-hitters I truly admire (Valerie Steele, Agatha Ruiz de la Prada, and Amy de la Haye). Read and enjoy!

Collecting Fashion
By Marco Pecorari

Fashion as ephemeral artwork is daily narrated in temporary exhibitions. As hosting institutions, museums have started questioning the way they react to this new dimension within the museum. Collecting dress is already a duty of ethnographic and decorative arts museums. But at the same time, these institutions are conceiving dress as social testimony, or serial object. In these museological contexts, the dress is hardly ever contextualized in its visual process of creation that coincides with a representation of contemporary fashion. In order to explore this topic more in depth, we talked to the curator Amy de la Haye, the Director of the Museum at FIT Valerie Steele, the director of the Galleria del Costume, Caterina Chiarelli and with fashion designers, Agatha Ruiz de la Prada and Antonio Marras.

Marco Pecorari: First of all, thanks for participating. Let’s start with an ‘easy’ issue: what’s the difference between fashion and costume? fashion museum and costume museum?

Agatha Ruiz de la Prada: We had to face this issue with Madrid’s costume museum when we propose to call it ‘Costume Museum’ but I guess, a fashion museum should cover more than mechanics and elements of fashion, such as representing fashion’s relation to society.
Antonio Marras: In my opinion, the gap is huge. Costume is identified as obsolete, retro and not contemporary. Fashion is escaping from this. Wrongly. Personally I love visiting costume museums.
Caterina Chiarelli: I love costume museums, too. But I think we should delimit costume museum to an ethnographic field, based more on the study of dress as a tradition than on its changing nature.
Amy de la Haye: Traditionally collections of dress and fashion were generically described as ‘costume’, a term that could embrace different kind of dress. It was inclusive. Fashion and the museum were not paired explicitly until the early 1970s when the V&A (London) and the Costume Institute at the Met (New York) started to actively embrace contemporary fashion. However, the terminology of museum collections and institutions has only started to change very recently to more accurately reflect the type of garments housed/exhibited and, where appropriate, to reflect growing interests in fashion and attract wider audiences.

Agatha Ruiz de la Prada and Amy de la Hay

MP: so that’s also a commercial side…
Valerie Steele: Yes. But I use the word “fashion” rather than “costume” because I want to emphasize that even in the past, people wore fashion – not fancy-dress costumes. The word “costume” should be restricted to theatrical/film costume or folk costume. The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) is a fashion museum – meaning that we look at fashion, not as “art” (like in an art museum, where they tend to focus just on haute couture) or “history” (like a history museum, where clothing is used to document or illustrate other aspects of the past) but as a legitimate type of design that has both artistic and historical elements – and that has its own history.
CC: Very true. In my opinion, a fashion museum should exhibit the changing of this type of design, with more freedom.

MP: What kind of restrictions could a fashion museum have?
VS: There are restrictions on conservation and exposition of dress, and also from fashion designers and the fashion system in general….

MP: What kind of links should we have between fashion museums and the fashion system?
ARP: A museum is a place for exhibiting art, creativity, whereas the fashion commercial machine has to deal with money and productions…
VS: I don’t agree… I think that a fashion museum is a part of the fashion system. Fashion designers know that the museum is a medium (like runway, the fashion magazine and the department store) that presents fashion to the public. Therefore, designers seek to control exhibitions of their work: here’s one restriction which doesn’t have to be accepted by curators.

MP: An example is the one with Lagerfeld and the Metropolitan Museum of Art, in which case Lagerfeld’s interference caused the exhibition to be cancelled

AM: I’m a fashion designer and I would never dare to interfere in the interpretation of my work. I would put my self in the curator’s hands. I would consider it an honour.
dlH: It’s understandable. Designers in turn recognize that having their work represented in a museum collection provides cultural cachet today and will ensure their place in history in the future. But it’s not only that. Sometimes there are amazing connections made. When he had just launched his own label in London, John Galliano studied an 18th century man’s coat in the collection and presented his interpretation to the Collection as a gift. When fashion looks to history, the Museum can become especially relevant.
AM: Definitely. “fashion people” have very little memory and they don’t look at the past as much as they should, and museums could help close this gap, if they could provide an easy access…

MP: Many museums are starting to catalogue on line their collections, which would make for a lot easier access and would also be helpful in terms of conservation.
AM: Great. I think it would also be important to create a close relation between fashion designers factories and museums, in order to catalogue the most significant clothes, which are being produced. Just think about what we could have done in Italy: from Albino or Capucci to the first Max Mara and Romeo Gigli…
CC: Sure, we should promote this collaboration but we need also to be careful to not get too involved. The museum could end up becoming a company’s archive.

MP: Could fashion museums represent the new step in museology or influence it? A new form of museum?
dlH: We have to say two things about this. First, as we have trends in fashion there are also trends in fashion curation and in curation in general. Fashion curation has to be analyzed because it can be seen as an important step for the role of curators in museum. Second, we have to underline that fashion is one of the most immediately accessible of all museum collections. When I worked at the V&A I used to say that you could find your way to the Dress Gallery (which at the time showed a chronology of western fashion) blindfolded as it was the noisiest – everyone, all ages and both genders, had something to say and felt confident to express an opinion.
Clothing of all types is inextricably entwined with our biographies and we leave imprints on the clothes we wear.
VS: It’s true, but I also think that it’s too soon to know what fashion museums will ultimately contribute to museology as a whole. But we must strive to move beyond designer hagiography and crowd-pleasing displays of “pretty” dresses worn by celebrities.
CC: I do believe that a fashion museum is inherently different and has great potentials for the future of museums. It is a dynamic museum.

Amy de la Haye is reader in Fashion Curation and Material Culture London College of Fashion.Joint Course Director (with Judith Clark) M.A. Fashion Curation, London College of Fashion. Formerly Curator of 20th Century Dress at the Victoria & Albert Museum (1991-1999). She will publish a book (co-curated with Judith Clark) on Curating Fashion for Yale University Press.

Valerie Steele Ph.D., (Yale University) is Director and Chief Curator of The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)

Caterina Chiarelli is Director of the Galleria del Costume – Palazzo Pitti di Firenze.

Antonio Marras is the designer of his own brand Antonio Marras and Artistic Director of Maison Kenzo

Agatha Ruiz de la Prada is a Madrid-base fashion designer

Marco Pecorari is completing his Phd in Contemporary Fashion Theory at the Centre for Fashion Studies – Stockholm University – with a thesis entitled “The Show is not Enough: new trajectories for reading contemporary fashion”. He writes for several fashion, arts and cultural independent magazines.

(**content and photo from fashionprojects.org**)

Ballet Beautiful

2011-01-06T14:22:00.000-08:00

Much like the rest of the world, I have resolved to exercise and/ or eat well in the new year. Making the resolution to hit the gym was easy, but actually going is quite another thing. I, like 99% of the population, rather abhor working out and exercising. In order to keep my resolution (for whatever it's worth), I am going to turn to that most sophisticated and chic sport that was recently made popular again by Natalie Portman's stand-out performance in "Black Swan." Yes, I am referring to ballet.

I took ballet lessons briefly during middle school and again in high school when I was taking gymnastics classes at a private academy. I was always terrible- the worst person in the entire class. I am not flexible and I lack rhythm. Yet, I'm willing to give it another try.

The inspiration for my second turn at ballet will be the Ballet Beautiful method by Mary Helen Bowers. After dancing with the New York City Ballet, Bowers studied English literature at Columbia and later went on to develop her own fitness regime which focuses on "the exquisite grace, beauty and strength that are the essence of a ballerina's form." Oh, and she also helped Natalie Portman train for her role in "Black Swan." Vogue's Molly Creeden was recently sent to Bowers's studio to try out her method and to learn how Portman prepared for her role. I think the visit was a success.

Although I won't be able to register for a class with Bowers, I am going to try to incorporate elements of ballet into my soon-to-be fitness plan. Bowers explained that ballet can help one look like a ballerina: "long, lean, sculpted, and strong, but still very elegant" (vogue.com). That's exactly how I would like to look! In order to achieve this, I want to try the "New York City Ballet Work Out" DVD, something that I have checked out from the library multiple times and returned unopened many times. I'll keep you posted as to how this project develops!

(** photo of Mary Helen Bowers is from her website, www.balletbeautiful.com**)

"Twilight Visions:" Brassaï's Contemporaries

2011-01-05T17:57:00.000-08:00

While catching up on art news in Artforum and Art in America, I came across an article that included a few of my favorite photographers: Brassaï (naturally!), Man Ray, and André Kertész. Well, the article was actually in The Daily Beast's Art Beast, but I came across the link via Art in America. Anyhow, Philip Gefter wrote about an exhibition, "Twilight Visions: Surrealism, Photography, and Paris," at New York's International Center of Photography that featured surrealist photos of Paris from the 1920s and 1930s. Jackpot! Sadly, the exhibit ended on May 9, 2010, but on the bright side, a few of the photos by Brassï's peers are still linked. Here are a few of my favorites:

This photo by Ilse Bing has all of the qualities that I love about a Brassaï photo: soft, blurred lighting and a completely candid ballerina in mid-twirl. This photo was taken at the Moulin Rouge in 1931.

To me, the most interesting aspect of this Man Ray photo is the placement of the mirror. I've become very interested in the many properties of mirrors throughout different periods of art history. Maybe Anne Hollander's entire chapter on the use of mirrors in art in Seeing Through Clothes had something to do with that...

I love black and white photos of the Eiffel Tower. This one, taken by Man Ray, is titled "For Electricity."

I'm not familiar with the work of Dora Maar (yet), but I really appreciate the themes and techniques of this portrait photo of Léonor Fini, taken in 1936. It really reminds me of some of Brassaï's photos in the Paris brothels (not to imply that Ms. Fini resembles a woman-of-the-night!). There's just something about her bravado that makes me think of those photos...

If you'd like to see more photos from the exhibit, I refer you to "Dreaming of Paris." All photos in this post are also courtesy of the Art Beast.

Goodreads 2011 Book Challenge

2011-01-04T14:45:00.001-08:00

If you're not a member of the website Goodreads, I highly recommend that you join. This is currently the only social networking site that I use and it is a fantastic site with multiple social and intellectual benefits. Goodreads allows you to share the books that you have read, are currently reading, and want to read. There are also literary quizzes, polls, lists, reviews, ratings, and other networking possibilities. In my opinion, it's a much better way to spend one's time than trolling on those other social networking sites.

For 2011, Goodreads advertised a book challenge (naturally)encouraging users to push themselves to read a certain number of books. Since I graduated from college, I've had a goal of reading four books per month (except in a month when I am reading something like Anna Karenina), but this year I'm going to aim to read something in the neighborhood of 30-35 books. I have a big project to begin in February (details to come) and I hope to be returning to the hallowed halls of academia later this fall. Thus, I better make the most of my leisurely reading time while I can!

So, here's what's on my immediate book radar:

1) "The Consolation of Philosophy" by Boethius. I've wanted to read this for awhile and I finally found a good edition of it at my library.

2) "Seven Days in the Art World" by Sarah Thornton. My applications to PhD programs in art history piqued an interest in the fast-paced world of modern art. I'm even contemplating an internship with Sotheby's or Christie's. Ergo, I thought it would be a good idea to check out various aspects of the art world in this book.

3) "The Distant Hours" by Kate Morton. This brilliant Australian author is one of my absolute favorite contemporary writers. Her book "The Forgotten Garden" is one of my top ten favorite works of fiction.

4) "The Unabridged Journals of Sylvia Plath." I've read the first 200 or 300 pages of this book somewhat sporadically, but I want to commit to actually finishing it this year. I find her personal writing even more compelling than her fiction and poetry.

5) February's Book Project. Technically, this will be February and March's Book Project, but details will come at a later date. This book will be my reward for completing all of my grad school apps. I'm really looking forward to it!

6) "Cousin Bette" by Balzac. I've really enjoyed the two books by Balzac that I've read previously (Pere Goriot and Eugenie Grandet), so I'm looking forward to this one. Also, one of the grad schools that I applied to sites the works of Balzac in a few of the course listings. Better to get started on that now!

7) "Troilus and Criseyde" by Chaucer. I think we're all familiar with The Canterbury Tales, but I want to delve a little bit deeper by reading this work by the father of English literature.

8) "The Gay Science" by Nietzsche. My uncle loaned this book to me when I had a course in philosophy my senior year. Regrettably, I still haven't read it. That must be remedied.

9) "The Old Patagonian Express" by Paul Theroux. My favorite travel writer has an anthology coming out this year, but I'd like to read this classic on travel through the Americas first.

10) "Diaghilev and the Golden Age of the Ballet Russes," by Jane Pritchard. This is the print companion to the exhibit at the V&A that I previously wrote about. I've been in my library's queue for it for weeks, so hopefully a copy arrives soon.

That's just a small sample of what's on my literary plate this year. What will you be reading? Send interesting recommendations my way!

(** This photo was taken by me in one of the Great Halls of the British Museum.**)

The Year in Review

2010-12-31T09:08:00.000-08:00

The end of the year is always a wonderful time for personal reflection. Were the past twelve months eventful or influential? Did I accomplish what I set out to achieve? And, most important, what is on the horizon for the new year? Here's a small look back at my past twelve months ...and what I'm looking forward to in 2011.

LONDON: Any opportunity to visit my favorite place in the world is a precious gift that I do not take for granted for even a moment. No matter how many times I visit this city, I always leave looking forward to the next return. I earned my eleventh and twelfth LHR stamps this year, and I can't wait to receive more!

TRAVEL: Though my travel plans didn't exactly go as I had hoped, it would be rather trite to be remiss about visiting nine countries in a single calendar year. My sister and I visited some of the world's greatest cities and had unforgettable adventures along the way. I know this trip is something that we'll both still be talking about when we're in our nineties.

UNUSUAL CHARACTERS: I met some rather strange folks on the travelin' road this year. There was "Nico Patterson's Mom" in Venice, a gregarious woman Laura and I kept bumping into all over the city. She told us stories about her unusual world travels (this woman had been everywhere) and how her son had Barack Obama as a professor at the University of Chicago. There was also "Jesus" in Bologna, a vagabond/ street beggar that Laura and I also kept bumping into all over town. He asked us for a euro at a festival in the piazza, and later that evening we saw him stumbling through the porticoes with a half-empty bottle of Sambucca. We both want to return to Bologna and look for him again. Oh, and there was the woman in Pula, Croatia whom we affectionately referred to as the "Accommodation Troll" because she solicited a room in her house to us as soon as we arrived at the bus station, not speaking a word of the local language and having absolutely no idea where we'd be staying. We declined her offer, though.

THAT VOLCANO: We began our travels in Iceland, but the volcano didn't really bother us until we were in Italy, trying to make our way north to Austria. Every train was booked solid for the next three weeks or more, due to the closure of nearly every major airport on the continent. Instead, we took a train to Udine, Italy where we waited all day to catch the only train to Salzburg. Around midnight that evening, one of the Tren Italia workers agreed to let us on the train without a ticket, provided we crouched in the hallway. We spent one of the longest nights of our lives in the cramped, smelly hallway. When two young Austrians boarded the train around 2 or 3 a.m., they remarked that the it smelled like a fish market. That was being kind.

REMEMBRANCE: We must always look forward, while never forgetting those who made the future possible. My father took my sister and I to visit the Ohio Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Canton. The memorial is a smaller version of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C., but it is the largest free-standing wall in the country. I've been to the Wall in D.C., but I was even more moved upon seeing the memorial dedicated to the brave men and women from Ohio who gave all they had. My sister and I hope to have a brick dedicated to our father here.

NEW LIFE: My best friend and her husband welcomed Baby Jackson in February. He's one of the most precious babies I've ever met, and something tells me that he's going to have an insatiable desire to see the world, much like his parents. And, in November, my boyfriend's sister and new husband welcomed their first child, Baby Zachary. Brian became an uncle and his parents became joyful grandparents. I can't wait to watch as their lives unfold.

FUTURE PROMISES: I think 2011 is going to be a fantastic year. I'm optimistic that it will finally be the year I realize my goals and do what is most important to me.

"...I see your true colors shining through...I see your true colors, and that's why I love you...so, don't be afraid to let them show...your true colors...true colors...are beautiful like the rainbow..."

Stay tuned for more!

Happy New Year, Dear Readers!

Lady Gaga: 2010's Best Dressed?

2010-12-28T11:51:00.000-08:00

Vogue readers recently elected Lady Gaga as 2010's Best Dressed Person. The competition was stiff, with Gaga beating out such fashionable contenders as Anna Wintour-favorite Blake Lively, First Lady Michelle Obama, Ethiopian supermodel Liya Kebede, and Brit It-Girl Carey Mulligan, among others. In choosing Lady Gaga, an artist who dresses primarily in costume, has the line between theatrical costume and fashion become even more blurred?

Don't get me wrong- I like fashion risk-takers. I love them, actually. I'd rather see a row of Anna Piaggi-wannabes than Jennifer Aniston-emulators any day. The fanciful and the outrageous are what make fashion exciting, in my opinion. Sure, there are hits and misses along the way, but you can't hit a home run if you're not willing to swing the bat. Lady Gaga is certainly a risk-taker who brings excitement and attention to the fashion industry. However, do her costumes represent her personal style? The purpose of theatrical costume, according to art historian Anne Hollander, "is to catch the eye with something unusual" (Seeing Through Clothes). Gaga accomplishes this summa cum laude, but she does so in a different manner from other fashion risk-takers like Daphne Guinness, Tilda Swinton, and the late Isabella Blow- all of whom dress(ed) in a manner which reflects their personal style.

Lady Gaga's personal style, as captured by the paparazzi, seems to be as bold as her costume choices, but perhaps not as fashionable. She has been photographed shopping (in the winter, no less!) without pants many times, wearing fishnets or sheer tights instead. She also wears heels that are typically favored by the women-of-the-night set and not the A-list fashion crowd. Fashion choices like these represent a lack of taste to me, even if they are bold and daring. One can take risks in fashion while still being appropriate, I believe.

So, if Lady Gaga won Best Dressed for her costumes and not her personal style, is she truly the year's best dressed woman? And what is the difference between costume and clothing- or is there one? Just a little fashion brain food for you!

(** photo from fashionfame.com**)

LSD's Trunk Show

2010-12-28T09:14:00.000-08:00

Lauren Santo Domingo is a woman who wears many hats. She is a Vogue contributing editor, stylist, socialite, modern fashion icon, and wife to Andrés Santo Domingo, a member of one of South America's wealthiest families. Now she has added entrepreneur to her long resume. Santo Domingo has developed, what I believe, is a brilliant business concept: an online trunk show that will have clothing straight from the runway available to those who can, well, afford it. The new enterprise is called Moda Operandi and it will launch on February 15th (Robert Sullivan, vogue.com).

What I love about this concept is that it makes runway fashions available. So many times, pieces from the runway are presented and photographed, and then tucked away into fashion obscurity for all eternity. Or, the piece is altered so severely after it is produced that it no longer resembles the original runway creation. If you are someone who saw the original on the runway and want that dress, Moda Operandi will now make it available to you, albeit you are willing to wait at least six weeks or more for the ensemble to arrive (which LSD believes women will not mind).

Upon first inspection, this concept might seem elitist or completely antediluvian, which in some respects it is. However, if you truly love fashion for fashion's sake, then this modern trunk show might just be what the doctor ordered in terms of preserving couture and ready-to-wear. Fashion critics have been warning about the end of couture for decades, much like bibliophiles have worried about the end of print media. I believe that Moda Operandi will extend longevity to fashion and bring more utility to runway shows (not that you should have to justify art for art's sake, but now there is even greater purpose for runway shows).

It will be interesting to see how the designers respond to this concept, though. According to Sullivan's article for Vogue, Calvin Klein, Thakoon, Derek Lam, Altuzarra, and Prabal Gurung have already agreed to make their fashions available for the trunk show. That's fantastic, but many of those designers are personal friends of LSD, so it makes sense that they would take part in her new venture. Let's see if she can attract the high-end designers (Galliano, Lagerfeld, Ghesquiere, Elbaz, et al).

I'm optimistic about this project and highly curious about it. Let's hope Moda Operandi's clients are as well.

(** information in this post is from "Lauren Santo Domingo: Lady and the Trunk," Robert Sullivan, vogue.com**)

French Vogue v. American Vogue, Or Know Thy Audience

2010-12-19T15:06:00.000-08:00

Carine Roitfeld's sudden departure from French Vogue has raised many questions over the past few days. Who will replace her at the magazine? Will she be collaborating with Tom Ford (Ford says no)? And- in not so many words- why can't American Vogue have editorials, articles, and content that are as provocative as those of French Vogue? Aren't Anna, Grace, Virginia, and the stylists and editors at American Vogue as talented and creative as their French counterparts? Yes, they are would be my answer. So why are American Vogue readers stuck with Jennifer Aniston and Anne Hathaway while French Vogue readers have access to Lara Stone and Freja? It's the audience, as one reader of The Cut pointed out. (S/he's right.) And here's why:

1) American Vogue, under the editorial leadership of Anna Wintour (so in the past 25 years), has developed too broad of content that most often has absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with fashion (which is why you were drawn to Vogue in the first place, right?). There are interviews with politicians (*yawn*) like Condi Rice, Timothy Geithner, and Hilary Clinton; stories about trite celebrities (*double yawn*); and quips about everything happening in the life of LSD and other Vogue socialites, many of whom flee the magazine after only a few months (Claiborne Swanson, Sara Moonves, Devon Radziwill, Ricki de Sole- just give her a few more months). Anna has explained that she wants the magazine to be like a fabulous cocktail party, where there are conversations on everything from literature to the culinary arts. This is a great concept, but a magazine is not like a party, and the content must be specific to its audience. Unfocused, broad content equals too broad of an audience.

2) American Vogue readers are more interested in celebrities than models (or at least Anna thinks we are). Instead of covers like this:

and this:

we have covers like this:

and this:

Even when there is a model on the cover, the styling is dull and unimaginative. I know that Vogue has to sell copies to stay afloat, but if they started putting forth interesting covers, the folks with only a fleeting interest in fashion would move on to more appropriate choices like In Style and Glamour, leaving more avant-garde choices for the hardcore fashion addicts among us. And we would show our support and appreciation by subscribing again.

3) Lastly- and this is a big one- American Vogue readers are too conservative to allow the kind of editorials that French Vogue produces. And this is a crying shame. The broad readership that American Vogue attracts is easily offended and unusually conservative- something that has lately bewildered me. There isn't a single member of Anna's staff who conceals his or her liberal leanings, yet month after month, a conservative reader writes in complaining about an article on women's rights, an interview with a Democratic leader, or a progressive editorial. Again, know thy audience. There's a reason I do not read National Review. The magazine does not represent my values or beliefs. If you don't like the liberal content of American Vogue, look elsewhere. Maybe Rupert Murdoch will launch a conservative fashion magazine (which would be a misnomer because fashion is by definition forward-thinking and progressive- it has to be). When the magazine puts forth only culturally provocative content, things will get better. And fast. Fashion, like all art forms, has to be constantly changing and cutting-edge to stay relevant.

I think American Vogue has the opportunity to be as forward-thinking, progressive, visually stimulating, and culturally aware as it wants to be. Attracting readers who want the same is the only thing standing in its way.

Diaghilev and the Ballet Russes at the V&A

2010-12-19T12:32:00.000-08:00

I really should have been born in the 1920s. I could have been friends with Carmel Snow, had my photograph taken by Brassaï, hung out in Paris with Picasso and Henry Miller, worn clothing designed by Chanel and Lanvin themselves, raised havoc as a flapper in New York, and witnessed a production of the legendary Ballet Russes. Since the ability to time-travel has not been invented yet, I'll have to content myself with the Victoria and Albert Museum's exhibit Diaghilev and the Golden Age of the Ballets Russes, 1909- 1929 to fulfill the last request. The exhibit, which opened on September 25th and will be running until January 9th, is a monumental undertaking co-curated by renowned curators Jane Pritchard and Geoffrey Marsh. I won't be able to make it back to London before the 9th of January, but, fortunately, the V&A's website has provided a wealth of information, photos, videos, and interviews on all things related to this exhibit.

For instance, the exhibit houses one of the largest Picasso paintings in the world. Picasso painted the backdrop for the 1924 Ballet Russes production of Le Train Bleu. The painting, which was signed by the great artist, is the centerpiece for this exhibit. To view the positioning of the photo, check out the V&A's video here.

Diaghilev was an incredibly collaborative and forward-thinking man. The exhibit also features the talents of Stravinsky, Chanel, Matisse, Picasso, and Nijinsky, his legendary partner and star dancer. This includes props, costumes, set designs, and posters designed by Léon Bakst, Georges Braque, and Natalia Goncharova. Nearly every aspect of the exhibit's creation, from its earliest genesis to the present, has been documented by Jane Pritchard at her blog. The V&A has also put together a walking tour around London which highlights important places in theatre and the history of the Ballet Russes. I can't wait to take advantage of that! The next time you're in London, check out the map here.

My curiosity in Diaghilev and the Ballet Ruses has been increased tenfold by merely viewing the V&A's website devoted to the magnificent exhibit. I can only imagine how much it would be heightened by actually seeing the collections. As usual, the V&A seems to have created nothing short of a masterpiece.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I must request every book the library has on Diaghilev and the Ballet Russes, including the accompanying exhibit book by Jane Pritchard and Geoffrey Marsh.

(** photo and links from the V&A's website at www.vam.ac.uk**)

Holiday Party Razzle Dazzle

2010-12-16T18:03:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that Pre-Fall collections are already out. I'm still digesting the many looks and trends from last season. I'm liking what I see for Pre-Fall so far, though. I also think that next season's looks can lend inspiration for the holiday party circuit this year. Here are a few perfect dresses and sensational party looks to wear to everything from the office party to simple cocktails out on the town.

This dress by Thakoon takes my breath away. Wearing this dress would make one an instant contender for the title of Best Dressed at the Holiday Party. I also love those incredible shoes. Yes, this is what I would wear to my holiday party.

Vera Wang's bright red party frock is also perfectly festive. I think pairing it with black tights and a sculptural blazer (to be removed upon arrival) would be perfect for crisp December weather.

I love this embellished dress from First Lady-favorite Naeem Khan. The shoes, however, are rather lackluster, so be sure to wear a more exciting pair. It is Christmas, after all!

And finally we have here two different, but equally holiday party-appropriate looks from Fendi. The suit on the right would be ideal for the office party and the sexy dress on the left would be perfect for a dressed-up dinner out on the town with your beau. The shoes are pure perfection, too.

Have a fashionable holiday!

(** photos from style.com**)

Lauren Bush and David Lauren Make It Official

2010-12-14T12:26:00.001-08:00

What a busy season for engagements! Prince William and his long-time love, Kate, finally made it official, and now David Lauren has popped the question to his girlfriend of six years, Lauren Bush. According to New York Magazine's Daily Intel, David Lauren proposed to Ms. Bush at the Metropolitan Museum of Art last Friday. I just love when couples with a long history together make engagement announcements. There's something bittersweet about it that yields additional happiness to me.

I suppose we can officially begin speculating as to whether or not Lauren will take David's surname. I suspect she'll remain Lauren Bush in public. We need not bother in speculating who will design the bride and bridegroom's wedding ensembles, though. Something tells me that Ralph Lauren will have that honor. Oh, and I predict that Dylan Lauren will have something to do with the wedding cake or dessert treats.

Congratulations to the happy couple!

The Official Royal Engagement Photo

2010-12-13T12:20:00.000-08:00

It should come as no surprise that Mario Testino was chosen to take the official engagement photo for Prince William and Kate Middleton. Testino was Princess Diana's most trusted photographer, capturing her for countless British Vogue shoots and official engagements. He also photographed Prince Charles for the September 2010 issue of Vogue. It would seem that Mario Testino has well established himself as a friend to both the Royals and the fashion industry.

His official engagement photo of the young couple is simple and elegant. If they weren't one of the most famous couples in the world, they could very well be any other stylish and sophisticated couple. Both appear relaxed and genuinely happy- everything one would want in an engagement photo.

The photo only leaves me wondering who designed Kate's beautiful dress. Issa, perhaps?

(** photo by Mario Testino, vogue.com**)

Presidential Holiday Style

2010-12-13T12:11:00.000-08:00

Our First Lady and President look so festive at the Kennedy Center Honorees' Reception in Washington, D.C. Who knew style this fantastic was even possible in D.C.? Michelle Obama, in particular, looks absolutely stunning in her Naeem Khan burgundy bedazzled and embroidered dress. I also love the drop earrings and slicked-back hair. There's no mistaking it- our First Lady is a Style Star!

(** image from vogue.com**)

2010's Top Books

2010-12-12T10:06:00.000-08:00

It's really difficult for me to narrow down my favorite books from the year to just ten selections. These are books that I really enjoyed, not books that were necessarily released in 2010. In fact, I do not believe a single one of my favorite books from the year was new in 2010. The ones that most stood out in my mind are a combination of travel narratives (one of my favorite genres), fashion/ clothing books, literature, and uplifting tales.

"Moon Tiger" by Penelope Lively. I'm making my way through the entire list of Man Booker recipients. I am so glad that I read this one! It is an incredibly moving and poignant tale about life, loss, and love. It's one of my all-time favorite books.

"The Language of Clothes" by Alison Lurie. While a little dated now, this book still offers wonderful insight into why people wear what they wear and what that ultimately means. It also affirms the importance of dress as a means of the signification of identity, something that I find very compelling.

"Conversations with Picasso" by Brassaï. The photographer Brassaï has been one of my greatest academic interests lately. I love the way he captured the demimonde of Paris, while still attracting the attention of high fashion magnates like Carmel Snow. In reading "Conversations with Picasso," the idea for a PhD dissertation was born.

"The Forgotten Garden" by Kate Morton. Australian writer Morton perfectly weaved together an unforgettable tale about a person's mysterious past. All of the details unraveled throughout the book in incredible ways. I can't wait to read it again.

"Riding the Iron Rooster: By Train Through China," Paul Theroux. Theroux is by far my favorite travel writer. Yes, he is a bit of a curmudgeon with some rather acerbic comments regarding life in America (among other things), but his thoughtful travel accounts never cease to astound me- or make me wish that I had been along for the ride.

"The Years" by Virginia Woolf. Virginia is one of my top two favorite writers (along with Iris Murdoch), so I've been making my way through her complete works. "The Years" is definitely one of my favorites. I love how she told not only the history of the Pargiters, but the history of London, too. This annotated edition is also absolutely beautiful.

"All Passion Spent" by Vita Sackville-West. After reading so many books by Virginia, I thought it was time to explore something by her lover, Vita. I was not disappointed with this book. I found it extremely uplifting and inspiring. I even wrote a blog post on it!

"The Time Traveler's Guide to Medieval England" by Ian Mortimer. This book was so entertaining and fun to read that I almost forgot it was non-fiction. If you love learning about the history of England, or if you just love history, you'll adore this book.

"Istanbul: Memories and the City" by Orhan Pamuk. Pamuk's memoir was part travel narrative and part autobiography. He blended the two elements together seamlessly and, in doing so, educated the reader on his own path to becoming a writer and Istanbul's path in becoming a world-class destination. This book also made me very eager to visit Istanbul- something my sister and I plan to do in the near future.

"Seeing Through Clothes" by Anne Hollander. I love art and fashion, and this book was a perfect combination of the two subjects. Hollander's fascinating book gave me some wonderful ideas and encouraged me to add art history to my academic repertoire.

Happy reading!

(**all images from amazon.com**)

Lanvin for H&M on the Red Carpet

2010-12-07T13:46:00.000-08:00

Natalie Portman recently stepped out in Lanvin for H&M, putting to rest the pretentious argument that bridge lines aren't well-made or on-par with their more expensive relatives. I think she looks fantastic in this dress. Had Vogue not specified that this was Alber Elbaz's collection for H&M, I doubt anyone would have known the difference in terms of the craftsmanship of the dress.

Well done, Monsieur Elbaz!

(** photo courtesy of vogue.com**)

Katy Perry's Bejeweled Red Lips

2010-12-03T15:29:00.001-08:00

Why subscribe to Harper's Bazaar? Aside from the steep discount off the newsstand price, subscribers also receive creative, fashion-forward covers that no one else is privy to. Case in point- the December issue of Harper's Bazaar. Three covers were released, as opposed to the usual two. There is one newsstand cover (*yawn*), one subscriber cover, and one special edition subscriber cover. I received the "special edition" cover, and it was indeed a treat from the norm.

This cover has the faint outline of Katy Perry's facial features, which are styled up with lots of mascara and Swarovski crystals. It's such a head-turner that I barely recognized the musician when I first retrieved the magazine from my mailbox. It's also unlike any other fashion magazine cover in my collection.

Bravo, Bazaar!

Holiday Wish List

2010-12-01T18:44:00.000-08:00

It's a bit early to begin composing holiday wish lists (especially considering my sister's and my most time-honored holiday tradition is to begin our Christmas shopping the day before Christmas Eve), but I've been inspired to compile a list of gifts for those of you who are out and about holiday shopping. Perhaps one of these gifts will suit someone on your holiday shopping list, or strike your own fancy.

I have a soft spot for quality stationery, and Crane is by far my favorite choice. I especially love the Giraffe Print Letterpress Notes in ecru/ white. A box of ten cards and envelopes can be yours (or your recipient's) for $19 at crane.com.

I've been collecting DK Eyewitness Travel Guides since middle school. My first DK guide was purchased back when I was in the sixth grade and was for- you guessed it- the UK. I now have close to thirty DK guides and would love to add this one to my collection.

What better way to celebrate the holidays than with the Choir of New College! A world-renowned choir, the Choir of New College releases musical recordings that are available in the UK (naturally) and at amazon.com. Check out the choir's website, too, at http://www.newcollegechoir.com/. I have heard them in person, and they are magical.

Balenciaga Paris Eau de Parfum. Bergdorf Goodman describes it as "a demure violet with airy blossom and delicate peppery notes. A fragrance that is mysterious and fragile, yet leaves a lasting trail." Last year my boyfriend gave me perfume from Lanvin; perhaps Balenciaga will be next?

Prim Premium Chain Point Court Shoes (quite the title, eh?) from Top Shop are fashionable enough to wear when one is out on the town, yet conservative enough to wear to the office. I love the ankle chains, which would be perfect with tights.

These Radcliffe Camera Bookends are available at the Bodleian Library's online site, or at the shop in Oxford. If I had my way, an entire room in my apartment would be furnished in Oxford memorabilia. These bookends, at 250 GBP, would be a great way to start.

A classic decanter for the wino or liquor connoisseur on everyone's holiday list. This particular square variety is available from Pottery Barn for only $25.

I have a weakness for lip balm and have always wanted to try Clinique's Repairwear Intensive Lip Treatment balm. I've been deterred from trying it by the high price tag ($25), but still think it is the ultimate gift for fellow lip balm addicts this Christmas.

And, finally, this pink diamond engagement ring from Asprey- a ring so stunning that it might even make Kate Middleton jealous. Price upon request, of course.

Happy holidays, dear friends!

Angelina Jolie Again?! Yawn

2010-11-29T10:56:00.000-08:00

Angelina Jolie is no stranger to the pages of Vogue. In fact, she's been a cover model now four times since 2002. I'm still trying to understand what Vogue's fascination is with her. I don't find her to be a terribly interesting person, although I applaud her for her various humanitarian efforts. I don't think her sense of style is that fantastic, especially given the fact that she has access to any garment under the sun. And her personal life isn't too exciting (to me) either. Most importantly, I haven't been too intrigued by any of her subsequent covers. They just strike me as your run-of-the-mill celebrity cover designed to appeal to the masses instead to the niche fashion crowd. Maybe I'm off base here. Take a look at the covers for yourself.

This cover from April 2002 is by far my favorite. Annie Leibovitz shot the image, and it actually has a fashion presence to me.

The March 2004 cover by Mario Testino isn't bad either. Gorgeous dress!

The January 2007 cover, which was frequently paired with Jennifer Aniston's Vogue cover (in which Aniston also posed in a red dress). Celebrity feuds really do not belong in the pages of Vogue. I considered this cover (and the story) a low-point.

(**cover image from www.shoppingandinfo.com**)

And we have the December 2010 cover. I love the blue background and hot pink type. Oh, and the Tom Ford dress. But that's about it...

(** all images from Google search**)

Lauren Bush for the Gap

2010-11-24T07:42:00.001-08:00

I'm pretty sure that I've mentioned in the past just how much I adore Lauren Bush. She's just a rock star- one of those rare people who excels at every single thing she does. She's intelligent (Princeton alumna), she's genuinely eco-conscious and concerned about making a contribution to humanity (her FEED bags are evidence of that), and she's a bona fide fashion original who both models and designs. She has also been in a long-term relationship with David Lauren for, oh, seven or eight years and hasn't felt the pressure to marry yet (perhaps because her married name would be Lauren Lauren?). You would think that someone from a staunch Democratic family would not be drawn to someone who is Republican royalty, but I'm willing to bet that Ms. Bush is not terribly partisan. In short, Lauren Bush is someone I reallllly, realllly admire.

Her newest endeavor seems to be modeling for the Gap's holiday campaign. I found this on the EU site, so I'm not sure if it's out in the U.S., but here she is looking fabulous as always. *Sigh*

Chanel Iman Dazzles at the CFDA Awards

2010-11-23T14:03:00.000-08:00

Chanel Iman looked absolutely stunning at the CFDA/ Vogue Fashion Fund Awards last week. I love this entire look from head to toe. The pops of electric tangerine accent the shimmering canvas of the Altuzarra dress so well. Could orange possibly be the next big trend in nail color?

I just love her. Anna, will you please give her a solo cover already?

(** photo courtesy of Vogue.com**)

The Royals and Vogue

2010-11-17T07:38:00.000-08:00

Now that Kate Middleton is officially the Future King of England's Bride-to-Be, it's only a matter of time before she has her first cover on Vogue (British or American editions). British Vogue, in particular, loves the Royal Family. They also love Royal-inspired editorials, like the fantastic 2001 spread with Kate Moss on the cover for the "Royal Salute." I'm hoping that we'll see Kate on the cover before the wedding...and many times after.

Until then, here are a few of my favorite covers of Vogue's favorite cover girl, Princess Diana.

This tribute to Princess Diana from October 1997 is widely considered to be one of the best ever UK magazine covers, at least according to The Guardian. This photo of Princess Diana, taken by Patrick Demarchelier, is simple and, indeed, one of the best covers ever.

The earliest Vogue cover.

I'm quite certain that Mario Testino contributed the portraits for this special edition.

I would love to have this issue. It was edited by the late Elizabeth Tilberis and the cover photo of the beautiful Princess was taken by Demarchelier. Classic.

No, Kate Moss is not a member of the Royal Family, but this commemorative edition and salute to the Royal Family is one of the best fashion issues ever. It is also one of the prize jewels in my Vogue Archives. This is another one of The Guardian's favorite UK magazine covers ever. If you love the cover photo, wait until you see the editorials inside. Truly Vogue at its best.

(** photos from Google search, The Guardian, or Vogue Archives**)

A Royal Wedding is Upon Us!

2010-11-16T07:51:00.000-08:00

The news that Royal watchers have waited for was finally announced today. Prince William and his long-time love, Kate Middleton, are officially engaged! Let the countdown to the Royal Wedding begin!

I can't wait to find out who will have the honor of designing her wedding dress, not to mention the extended wedding party's ensembles. Will she wear Princess Diana's sapphire ring? Where will the ceremony be held? Reports have indicated that the wedding will definitely be in London, but no official venue has been revealed yet. I'm hoping for Westminster Abbey. Also, who will be Prince Harry's date for the ceremony? And, where will they honeymoon?

With so much happening in England over the next two years (the 2012 Olympics, the Queen's Diamond Jubilee), this is yet another reason to make the trip across the pond. As if we truly need justification to travel to England!

The Perennial Accessory: Scarves

2010-11-01T08:59:00.000-07:00

If there's one accessory that has really spiked in popularity lately, it'd have to be the scarf. Scarves can be worn with anything to jazz up any outfit. They can be worn year-round. And, the best part, they are available at every price (I won't say "price point" because that annoys me to death). For the longest time, I had been on a tremendous shoe kick (and I still kind of am), but my accessory focus slowly shifted to that of the accessory, especially once I realized all the style aid that a scarf can lend to a wardrobe. On my most recent jaunt through Europe, I picked up two super-stylish patterned scarves, one in Bologna and another at the Top Shop (Is there any other store?) in London. I've already worn them more times than I can count.

One of my new favorite scarf hubs is Echo Design. They have more varieties and patterns of scarves than you could wear in a lifetime. The price range is pretty generous, too. There are truly scarves for every budget and every taste. Here are a few of my favorite designs from their website:

The "feather formation" scarf is pricey at $78, but with a pattern like this, it's probably the only accessory you'll ever need. It's also my favorite scarf from Echo Design's website. This scarf can turn even the dullest ensemble into something truly noteworthy. I'd love to add it to my scarf collection.

The "crowned jewels" scarf is fit for a queen, and it has a price tag to match, at $98. This silk scarf is so sumptuous in its rich color palette and design. It's also available in three different colors and varieties, so snatch them all up if you can.

The "printed embroidery" scarf will lend itself well to a blank canvas. This scarf, at $58, touts itself as offering "the look of embroidery without the sewing." The benefits? The fabric will not snag a thread. This beauty is available in silk in multiple colors.

The "cheetah velvet smoke ring" scarf is designed to be worn in a ring, as the name would suggest. Some companies (Banana Republic, for instance) refer to this style as the "infinity" scarf, but it basically means that the scarf is worn almost like a necklace, as opposed to draped or wrapped.

And here it is in "ring" form. I think this would be a beautiful way to accent an all-black evening ensemble. So chic, and for $58, it might be one of the least expensive ways to tailor an outfit to your individual taste.

For more images of beautiful scarves from Echo Design, check out their full online collection at www.echodesign.com. Enjoy!

Liu Wen Looks Nothing Like Herself in the New Estée Lauder Ads

2010-10-29T11:54:00.000-07:00

Liu Wen recently became the first Asian to sign with cosmetics giant Estée Lauder, so the fashion world has eagerly awaited a glimpse of the new ad campaign. I really love Liu Wen. She is absolutely stunning on the runway and has a classically beautiful face. It's also fantastic to see the fashion world becoming more racially diverse. I think Estée Lauder was truly lucky to land her as a representative of their brand. However, I was a little disappointed with the ad campaign upon first glimpse in The Cut. She just looks nothing like herself! Maybe it's that fuchsia lipstick or the commercial styling, but she doesn't have that radiant, natural look that she typically exudes.

What do you think of the ad?

There's no doubt that she is beautiful, classy, and worthy of the campaign. But, in comparison to a recent look from the runway (below), you might see why I was ever so slightly disappointed.

Here she is at Stella McCartney, beaming with a natural glow. Maybe the ad campaign is just a little too "glamazon" for my taste. When you're this beautiful naturally, do you really require all of that makeup?

What do you think about the ad campaign?

(**ad image courtesy of The Cut at http://nymag.com/daily/fashion/2010/10/behold_liu_wens_first_estee_la.html

Stella McCartney image courtesy of style.com**)

Fakes are Never in Fashion this Election Season

2010-10-25T08:19:00.000-07:00

Midterm elections are right around the corner here in the U.S. There are a lot of vital issues that are on the ballot for consideration, but there is one important campaign that will not be on the ballot. This is an issue that is close to not only my heart, but to the fashion community's as well. It is a campaign that has been spearheaded by Harper's Bazaar: Fakes are Never in Fashion.

This issue is always on my mind, but it entered my radar this weekend while my boyfriend and I were at a fall festival. I was expecting pumpkin pastries and authentic arts and crafts. Instead we were met with counterfeit Prada and Coach bags and bootlegged CDs and DVDs. Not exactly what I was expecting... One woman who was selling the counterfeit goods actually had a printed business card on her table. While pretending to peruse the illegal merchandise, I politely asked if I could take one of her business cards with me. Of course, she said. I've never had the opportunity to turn in someone selling counterfeit goods before, but this might be my first chance. Usually, those who panhandle illegal goods do so secretly or in an evasive way to hide from police and law enforcement officials. The truth is, fakes are NEVER in fashion. It is NEVER OK to sell or buy illegal, counterfeit merchandise. It may seem like a victim-less crime, but it is far from that.

Harper's Bazaar has been devoted to cracking down on the counterfeit goods industry for the past five years. Every January they provide an update on what is happening to prevent the sale of counterfeit goods. The magazine has also launched a website to accompany the campaign. Here are a few vital facts from their website that will hopefully make people think twice before they buy that fake Prada bag.

* $600 Billion- Estimated annual sales in counterfeit goods worldwide

* $512 Billion- Global sales lost to counterfeit goods

* $250 Billion- Annual loss to American companies from intellectual property theft

* $20 Billion- Estimated loss to American companies from counterfeit products

* $1 Billion- Estimated annual loss in NYC tax revenue due to counterfeiting

* 750,000- Number of jobs lost due to intellectual property theft in the U.S.

*10%- Estimated percentage of fakes among all goods produced worldwide every year

Consider those facts from Fakes are Never in Fashion (http://fakesareneverinfashion.com/fakes_numbers.asp) for a moment. In a time when the U.S. is reeling from catastrophic job loss, the last thing we need to be doing is supporting an industry that contributes to the loss of jobs. And these are only the economic and financial statistics associated with counterfeit goods. Dana Thomas, author of Deluxe: How Luxury Lost its Luster, is a well-respected fashion journalist who also reports on this issue for Harper's Bazaar. In a recent report she shared gruesome details from a trip to Guangzhou, China. She visited a factory where fake Louis Vuitton bags were made and discovered that some of the children had suffered broken bones at the hands of their employers. The employer had broken the leg bones and tied them together, so that they would never heal. Why was this done? Because the children had asked for a break. This horrifying story was revealed in the January 2009 issue of Harper's Bazaar. View the story here: http://fakesareneverinfashion.com/fakes_luxury.asp

If that won't make one think twice before buying that fake Kate Spade bag, I don't know what will. It's not just that the industry is deceptive and illegal, but it has also been linked to terrorism, abusive child labor practices (above), and the loss of revenue and jobs. It's not technically a crime to own a counterfeit bag (at least not in the U.S.), but in Europe, particularly in France, you can be jailed and severely fined just for being spotted carrying one. Lawmakers in the U.S. are working on that issue, though. The Design Piracy Prohibition Act was introduced in Congress to protect the rights of the designers who came up with, say, the double cross of the Tory Burch ballet flat or the craftsmanship of an Alexander McQueen shoe. When you buy a fake product, you're also robbing someone of the hard work and effort that went into creating that product.

So, when you head to the polls this election, consider this issue for a moment (even though it's not on the ballot). It's something that needs to be on the minds of concerned citizens everywhere, everyday. When you cast your vote, remember that FAKES ARE NEVER IN FASHION.

For more information on Harper's Bazaar's campaign, Fakes are Never in Fashion, check out their website at http://fakesareneverinfashion.com/default.asp. They have information on protecting yourself from unknowingly buying a fake good, on reporting the crime (anonymously), and on contributing to the prevention of the counterfeit industry. I hope you'll support this truly worthwhile cause.

(** image from http://fakesareneverinfashion.com/content/fakes_respond_lg.jpg**)

Our First Lady, the Style Star

2010-10-18T09:45:00.001-07:00

One of my favorite style stars was in my neck of the woods yesterday with her husband, the man we all know as our President. I was so excited that the President and First Lady would be in town yesterday, but so disappointed that I wasn't able to take part in the celebratory excitement. Like any other Michelle Obama fashion-enthusiast, I had to turn to the website, Mrs. O, for photos of her from the weekend's events. Here she is in Cleveland wearing different gradations of navy and a fabulous print top. While there's no doubt that other First Ladies have had a certain style about them (Jackie O, anyone?), what I love most about Mrs. Obama is that she always looks professional, original, and youthful. She's also a friend to the fashion industry, choosing to support newer, unknown designers in lieu of the more traditional presidential favorites like Oscar de la Renta and Carolina Herrera.

I just love her.

(** photo image courtesy of Mrs. O at http://mrs-o.org/storage/105635219.jpg?__SQUARESPACE_CACHEVERSION=1287357488139 **)

I can officially remove W from my reading list...

2010-10-12T07:20:00.000-07:00

I started reading W right around my senior year in high school. I loved that the magazine offered more artistic and avant garde cover photos than any other American fashion magazine. I also loved the sheer size of it, even if my subscription completely overwhelmed our mail box. I subscribed all through college and kind of lost interest in W after graduation, switching my gears toward travel magazines like National Geographic Traveler and Conde Nast Traveler.

Well, any remnant of interest I had left in the magazine has been obliterated under the re-design of Stefano Tonchi. I haven't liked anything about the magazine since it was supposedly revamped. I didn't even touch the issue with Michelle Williams and Ryan Gosling, and I almost always give the magazine the obligatory peruse when I'm in a Barnes & Noble. The same will happen with the so-called "art issue" for November. Kim Kardashian?! Naked?! How is this in any way artistic? Shouldn't she be relegated to the covers of magazines like In Style and People? W used to be about high fashion, society, and culture. Under Mr. Tonchi's brief reign, the focus seems to have completely moved to pop culture, something that I have absolutely no interest in.

I wish W could return to its original focus. Actually, I wish the entire fashion industry would dial the clock back a bit. I have become completely disenchanted with the entire mainstream fashion industry, making me that much more pleased that I decided not to pursue a career in fashion journalism.

Maybe W will come around. For now, it has been removed from my magazine reading list.

(** image is from NY Magazine at http://images.nymag.com/images/2/daily/2010/10/12_kardashianw_250x328.jpg**)

Charlotte Casiraghi's Dazzling Purple and Red Chanel

2010-10-11T09:35:00.000-07:00

Vogue.com's Ten Best Dressed list is always my favorite part of Monday. I check this list religiously, and don't really consider the day to have begun until I have seen Alexandra Kotur's latest style stars.

My favorite look from this week's compilation is definitely Charlotte Casiraghi's stunning Chanel ensemble for the 90th anniversary of French Vogue. I love everything about this look: the double belt, the cuffs, the lace hat, the red nails and lips. It's just perfect. I only wish we could have seen the young Casiraghi crack a smile. Why does everyone in the fashion world (or in Ms. Casiraghi's case, high society) always look so glum? I've never seen Tonne Goodman with the hint of a smile. Caroline Seiber always looks depressed. Anna is, of course, never seen smiling.

SMILE, people!!!

To see the complete Best Dressed List for the week of October 11th, head on over to the newly-revamped Vogue.com.

(** photo of Charlotte Casiraghi is also courtesy of vogue.com**)

Valentino Spring 2011: Feminine, Romantic Bliss

2010-10-05T16:32:00.001-07:00

The October 5th Paris collections have been, without a doubt, my favorite day of shows this entire season. Not only did Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri put forth what was, in my estimation, their best collection for Valentino to date, but they also presented my favorite collection this season. I haven't seen Sarah Burton's collection for Alexander McQueen yet, but I know that I will still be reflecting upon this beautiful collection for Valentino even when I do view it.

I love feminine and romantic pieces, and this was an entire collection of looks that evoked delicate and ladylike moods. Each dress was more beautiful than the one before it, rendering it nearly impossible for me to select just a few favorite looks.

I am in love with this delicate, ladylike blouse. It is so sweet and demure, yet so versatile and powerful.

This beautiful dress reminded me of an earlier Valentino lace gown that both Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Lopez wore variations of. I liked both of those dresses by Mr. Valentino very much, but I might like this one just a little bit more.

This dress is far too special for it merely to be referred to as a Little Black Dress.

Sasha Pivarova wears this carnation pink dress so beautifully. There is not a single thing that I would change about this look.

And, here we have my absolute favorite look from the entire show. How many trips to England would I have to sacrifice in order to add this gorgeous dress to my closet? Sigh. Waaaay too many...

I also adore this look from head to toe. The delicately placed ruffles on this dress remind me of ta scene in "Valentino: The Last Emperor" in which Valentino is seen quarreling with Giancarlo over the placement of the ruffle bands on a strapless white dress. Valentino wants there to be spaces between the ruffles; Giancarlo thinks it looks like there is a giant abyss in the dress. Surely you remember that scene?

Freja looks stunning in this elegant ecru dress. I also love the oh-so-delicate pop of color with the yellow shoes. This is exactly how I would want to look on my wedding day.

The closing look was another beautiful dress with diaphanous layers and a precious spark of color in the pink shoes. Pure perfection.

To see the collection in its entirety (which you definitely should!), head on over to style.com, the furnisher of these photos.

Now That's What I Call Fashion: Haider Ackermann Spring 2011

2010-10-04T13:07:00.000-07:00

Every so often, there will emerge one of those rare, life-affirming collections. If you are a writer, it is the kind of collection that you dream of writing about. If you are a model, it is the kind of clothing that you always hoped you would have the chance to present. And, if you work at a magazine, it is the kind of compelling, provocative collection that you know will bring even more interest and enthusiasm to the industry. Haider Ackermann's Spring 2011 collection was just that sort of collection.

The clothing was sophisticated to a tee, as well as sexy, erogenous, fashionable (of course!), and entirely wearable. I loved the rich, saturated hues of the yellows, reds, and teals set against the sexy black layered vests, silk pants, and rope-like belts. As Nicole Phelps said in her review of the collection for Style.com, "the clothes somehow managed to be utterly soigné and fabulously louche all at the same time."

Here are a few of my favorite looks from Señor Ackermann's outstanding collection.

From runway to reality, a layered tee would obviously be needed, but I still love the fantasy presentation of this look, especially since this model wears it so well.

Is this not the most gorgeous color you have ever seen? I would love to wear this dress, even though I am probably a foot too short for it.

So sleek, so sophisticated with just a pop of color. I could definitely see myself strolling through Paris in this one...

At first glance, this pattern closely resembles chic pajamas. Upon further inspection, it is a sartorial delight.

Another stylish interpretation on the previous look, this time with a sleek leather jacket.

Sigrid Agren wears this ensemble perfectly, but I think it would also look fantastic if the beautiful blouse was paired with skinny jeans for off-the-runway.

I'm not sure how well this look could translate off the runway, but it certainly is strikingly eye-catching. Of course, the leather vest could be a must-have item. I love the buttercup yellow color of the skirt and heels, but see it having little real-life wear-ability...unless you are Kate Moss.

(**Check out the complete collection over at style.com, from whence these lovely photos came.**)

Where the Models Are: Balenciaga and Balmain

2010-09-30T18:12:00.000-07:00

I think we all enjoy seeing new, fresh faces on the runway, but there is something so reassuring about seeing familiar faces. And where were the top models this season? It looks like they flocked to Paris for the Balenciaga and Balmain shows. Gisele! Carolyn Murphy! Stella Tennant! Carmen Kass! They were all there, storming down the runway and giving the young girls something to really aspire to. Here they are in their full glory:

Canadian stunner Daria Werbowy opened for Balmain. I know a few critics have lambasted the collection for being too DIY, but I really loved it. All of the models looked fantastic, too. Healthy, and beautifully styled.

The Estonian supermodel, Carmen Kass, rocking the runway at Balmain. Carmen Kass is without a doubt my favorite model ever. I love her. It's so wonderful to see her somewhere besides those Michael Kors ads, too.

She may be pregnant, but Australian model Miranda Kerr can still work that runway at Balenciaga.

Supermodel Amber Valletta taking a break from her budding acting career to walk at Balenciaga.

I'm not crazy about this look at Balenciaga, but Carolyn Murphy certainly looks radiant in it.

I was so excited to see Dewi Driegen on the runway at Balmain! She is another one of my favorite models, probably because of her close resemblance to Carmen Kass.

Stella Tennant is that rare model who can look both regal and edgy at the same time. Her presence on the runway, here at Balenciaga, is always welcomed.

Pulling out all the stops at Balenciaga with the biggest model in the biz, Gisele, closing.

(** all images from style.com**)

Bold, Bright Bananas at Prada

2010-09-27T16:46:00.000-07:00

Critics have been going bananas for Prada's Spring 2011 collection, which is fitting because the fashion-forward dresses and prints actually featured bananas and moneys. I bet you never thought you'd see the name Prada associated with bananas (or monkeys), but take a look at her spring collection to see what all the buzz has been about. I'm still deciding whether or not I think this collection was a "powerful idea perfectly executed," as Suzy Menkes said, or a vision that has been lost amidst a sea of neon pink and yellow bananas.

Two yellow dancing monkeys paired with a lime green and black striped skirt? Where on earth would you wear this colorful ensemble? Not even the shoes can redeem this look for me.

How much for a Prada top covered completely in bananas? At least the shoes are beautiful...

Will I anger the fashion gods if I write that I think this outfit is downright hideous?

Now we're getting somewhere! I really love this look. I'd love to see it accessorized off the runway, too.

More happy, dancing monkeys! If a celebrity were to wear this dress to a red carpet event, would she end up on the worst dressed list, or would critics applaud her sense of adventure in fashion?

Fantastic suit! I would love to wear this and bring my own spin to it. I'd like to get a better look at those shoes, too.

To see the complete Prada Spring 2011 collection, go to style.com, the website from whence these photos came!

From London: Jonathan Saunders Spring RTW 2011

2010-09-26T16:44:00.000-07:00

I know that collections are currently being presented in Milan and that I am (as usual) way behind in viewing said collections. I've slowly been making my way through the collections from London, though, and Jonathan Saunders is without a doubt my favorite so far. I love his use of color, accessories (namely, shoes), and prints. Check out a few of my favorite looks from the Spring 2011 RTW runway:

I posted this look mainly so you could check out these glorious shoes. How do I love these shoes? Let me count the ways... Spectacular. I would wear them forever. I'm also mad for that belt. Fantastic use of accessories here.

I'm not usually one for shorts, but there is something about this look that I cannot resist. Again, you have the fantastic belt and exquisite shoes, but there is something about the continuous line of this outfit that I love. This model pulls off the look flawlessly, too. I adore that pale skin!

This look is one of my favorites because I would wear the entire look, from head to toe. In fact, I have worn something so similar to this that I might have to post my own "What I Wore" inspired post and recreate this ensemble.

What a fantastic dress for spring! The bright orange and turquoise instantly brought a smile to my face.

This is another perfect dress for spring (or even fall, if worn with a blazer). If the dress were a bit longer, I also think it would be ideal for the office. These shoes are also a girl's best friend for their magical ability to instantly lengthen legs.

While I loved the colorful pieces in this collection, I really didn't care for the designer's all-black statements. I have very few black pieces in my own wardrobe, so I might have an initial bias, but take a look at these pieces for yourself:

So many of the other looks in the collection had a childlike innocence that I loved. This sheer, midriff-revealing dress certainly does not. I also feel that it adds very little to the overall cohesiveness of this collection.

Despite the beautiful shoes, I really didn't care for the overall look. Too short, too sheer, too sexy for my taste.

While the collection was not perfect (What collection is?!), of the 37 looks, I found at least 30 to be beautiful, interesting, or wearable. Well done, Mr. Saunders!

(** all images from style.com**)

Elle Promotes Unhealthy Body Images with the October Issue

2010-09-21T11:27:00.000-07:00

There has been a lot of controversy associated with Elle's October cover of Gadbourey Sidibe, so much so that EIC Roberta Myers already spoke out in defense of the lighter skin Ms. Sidibe appears to have on the cover. I'm not sure if Elle lightened Ms. Sidibe's skin or not, and I'm really not concerned with that non-issue. To me, the problem with this cover is unequivocally one of health. Why did Elle chose to glamorize someone who is severely overweight, obese, and unhealthy? This is unhelpful and harmful! Two-thirds of Americans (over 190 million!) are overweight or obese. Obesity-related diseases are a $147 billion dollar medical burden annually. Childhood obesity, First Lady Michelle Obama's singular issue, has tripled in the last thirty years (CBS). This is a problem, not something to celebrate as an issue of diversity ("The cover is of a real woman!") or one of self-confidence. It's not an issue of judgment, either. It was Elle's choice to feature someone who is unhealthy.

What perplexes me, though, is why more people aren't bothered by the lionization of someone who is incredibly unhealthy. If the cover model had been unhealthily thin, people would be speaking out left and right about how the magazine is promoting impossible body standards, negative body images, and unobtainable weights. When the person is on the opposite end of the health spectrum, no one mentions the problem and those who do are deemed "insensitive." It is fine for a person to say to me, "You're too skinny!" or "You could stand to gain a few pounds!" but it would be unthinkable of me to say "You're too fat!" or "You could stand to lose a few pounds!" to someone else. I will never understand why that is. Of course, I think any comment along those lines is inappropriate, but in American society, it is perfectly acceptable to criticize a thin person, but insensitive to criticize an overweight person. Elle only enforces that paradox with this cover.

I can't wait to read what Elle readers thought about this cover when the letters to the editor are printed in a couple months.

What are your thoughts on the cover???

Vintage Vogue Nostalgia

2010-09-15T17:14:00.000-07:00

Vogue has come a long way in its august, 118-year history. Though, looking at pictures of covers from the earliest decades of the magazine, I can't help but feel that maybe change isn't always for the best. I find these older covers to be more artistic, more innovative, and more stylish than any of the covers that I have seen in the past ten years. I'm definitely feeling a little nostalgic for the "olden days." Take a look at some of these vintage covers, and you may just agree.

(** images in this post from a Google search**)

ASME's Best Magazine Covers 2010

2010-09-13T06:56:00.000-07:00

The American Society of Magazine Editors (ASME) has released its finalists for the fifth annual Best Cover Contest. To be selected, a cover had to have appeared between June 1, 2009 and May 31, 2010. The finalists, as broken down by category, are listed on the Society's website and Amazon.com, so that the public may vote for their favorites.

Can you guess which fashion magazine had multiple covers featured in the contest and which other fashion magazine had zero? If you guessed Harper's Bazaar for the first answer, you'd be correct. And, if you guessed Vogue for the second part, you would also be correct. Yes, Bazaar had four covers selected (which also put them in fourth for most overall nominees right behind New York Magazine, The New York Times Magazine, and The New Yorker), including this cover of Kate Hudson. Not surprisingly, all four covers were subscriber covers (i.e. not the boring, generic covers that grace the newsstands). Another fashion magazine, Elle, also had a cover finalist, but it was also a subscriber cover.

That should tell editors something right there. The newsstand covers are just too plain! There is nothing interesting, eye-catching, or provocative about them. It is the subscriber covers that are really catching people's interest, or at least garnering media attention and winning awards. Perhaps Vogue should consider issuing a subscriber cover along with their peers, Harper's Bazaar and Elle?

To view all of the finalists, check out ASME's website at http://www.magazine.org/asme/about_asme/asme_press_releases/2010-best-magazine-cover-contest-finalists.aspx

Wonderful Wu: Spring RTW 2011

2010-09-11T17:52:00.001-07:00

I'm still sifting through the collections that have shown so far this week in New York, but Jason Wu's work has been an immediate stand-out. I am in love with this collection! It's wearable, varied, whimsical, colorful, and sophisticated. Sure, those words get thrown around quite often, but when you see these photos, you'll agree.

There's almost nothing I adore more in fashion than mixed prints and patterns. The top is obviously too sheer, but that can be fixed.

I would love to see this dress styled with a fitted blazer, opaque tights, and sculptural shoes for fall.

This look is pure perfection on porcelain, untanned skin. A look this classy and sophisticated just couldn't be achieved by applying bronzer (or the harsh rays of the sun) to the skin. I love it.

This outfit beckons to be worn in the South of France. Glamorous and, if paired with a nude camisole, sophisticated in an understated way.

I can't resist this beautiful look! It's not the most fashion-forward look we've seen from Wu, but it's endlessly wearable. And isn't that the most important thing to consider when accumulating new pieces these days?

Is it possible that this dress could also be made in ivory and blush? I'm hearing wedding bells...

(** photos courtesy of style.com**)

Grace Gravitates Towards Redheads

2010-09-10T09:41:00.000-07:00

It's official- I'm dying my hair red. In a brief blog post from The Cut ("In Fashion, Redheads Stick Together," 9/10/10), Grace Coddington recountedwhy she was initially drawn to current Glamour executive fashion editor, Anne Christensen, when she hired her as her assistant at Vogue many moons ago. "You go toward a redhead. At least subliminally," Grace told The Cut. I'm guessing that Ms. Christensen had many other notable attributes which made her worthy of a gig at Vogue, but it sounds like being a redhead may have given her an additional leg (head?) up on the competition.

Other noteworthy redheads in the biz include blogger Jane Aldridge (at least, I think she is a natural redhead...), Karen Elson, and Maggie Rizer.

Now if you'll excuse me, I must make my way to Target so that I can procure a lovely shade of strawberry blonde to color my hair.

Carey Mulligan's Vogue Moment

2010-09-08T08:08:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to finally see a fresh face on a Vogue cover! Carey Mulligan will be the cover model for the October issue, and she looks absolutely radiant. Not only do I adore the soft colors and palettes they chose for the cover, but I love the way her hair was styled.

I know that I have groused (a little!) in the past about actors taking the place of models on fashion magazine covers, but I think Carey Mulligan actually possesses unique style worthy of fashion's most revered cover. I'm not sure if she has a stylist, but she is constantly in new and exciting looks. There's something about those British girls- they have undeniable style!

What do you think of the cover?

(** image courtesy of http://images.nymag.com/images/2/daily/2010/09/20100908_vogue_250x339.jpg **)

Quotable Quotes from ALT

2010-09-07T16:53:00.000-07:00

I know that the live coverage for the Lincoln Center public fashion show is still going on, but I wanted to share a few thoughts and, most importantly, quotable quotes from the irreplaceable Andre Leon Talley.

First off, could poor Hanneli Mustaparta have been any more awkward alongside ALT? Oh, my goodness... This was obviously her first gig in front of the camera and off the runway. Plus, although she had worked as a model, she didn't know most of the guests who came to chat with ALT. And, as fabulous as he is, Andre really didn't make much of an effort to include her in the conversation or to introduce her to the designers.

Secondly, this was clearly the night to toot the horn of Anna Wintour. I'll include a few of Andre's choice comments regarding Anna's state of being the supreme fashion potentate. They were excessive!

I thought the show was very exciting, but way too fast-paced. I liked the concept of having a constant stream of models moving around the arena, but it was difficult to focus in on one particular look or model. Gisele opened the show in Marchesa and later admitted to having been nervous during the show, likely due to the length of the runway. Other top models including Karolina Kurkova, Lily Donaldson, Chanel Iman, Karlie Kloss, and Angela Lindvall walked in the show.

And here are a few of my favorite quotes from ALT that I scribbled down while he was commentating the show:

"Shoes from Prada or Payless!"

"Trying to clean up the world" ALT about Donna Karan

"Fashion is for everyone today!"

"Walk that train, girl!" ALT to Naomi Campbell

"I am so happy that people feel good about themselves!" (Not sure what he meant there...sometimes ALT's ways of thinking are higher than ours...)

"It's her (Anna Wintour) city tonight!" Agreed. Mayor Bloomburg should just relinquish his seat and give it to Anna.

"I love that beehive!"

"Go out at night in plaid!"

"Masterly! Drama!"

"You should do coffins!" ALT to Vera Wang

"Polish is important."

"Waists are back, curves are back!"

"I love the glitter on the eyelids!"

"This is a night of history!"

Let's face it: ALT is a veritable book of quotations, so I'll have to limit myself to those gems.

And now I must return to the evening's festivities!

Fashion's Night Out Festivities Kick Off Tonight

2010-09-07T15:03:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I'm feeling a little overwhelmed this week! There are just too many exciting things happening in fashion to keep up with- and that's a good thing. Tonight's public fashion show at Lincoln Center in New York kicks off the FNO festivities. Andre Leon Talley will be broadcasting the show live as it is streamed on CBS. Hanneli Mustaparta will also be joining ALT. The streaming begins at 7 p.m., so eat a quick dinner and get ready to camp out in front of your computer for the remainder of the evening. I'll look forward to posting some thoughts on the show after it has aired!

Check out the public fashion show at www.cbs.com/fno. CBS also has other videos and promotions regarding Fashion's Night Out, so check it out!

Young, Fashionable Italians in Love

2010-08-28T06:39:00.000-07:00

This photo, taken by The Sartorialist, is one of the many reasons why I love Italy and, particularly, Italian fashion. Everyone dresses so well there! It never ceases to amaze me. This couple was captured in Florence, a city, while not as stylish or fashion-forward as cities like Milan and Rome, is still very stylish in its own way. I just love how in sync this couple is with one another's personal style, though I'm guessing that this look was not planned or coordinated. The young lady looks adorable from head to toe, and her boyfriend could certainly teach the wannabe J.Crew preppies a thing or two about style.

(**Photo courtesy of The Sartorialist at http://www.thesartorialist.com/photos/61610BohoCouple_2218Web.jpg**)

Is that Barbara Bush?!

2010-08-27T07:15:00.001-07:00

I never thought I'd see a Bush not named Lauren in a magazine as progressive, fashion-forward, and avant garde as V magazine. Not only is it a surprise to see a Bush in V, but a Bush photographed by Terry Richardson.Those two names just don't go together to me!

But, sure enough, here she is, styled with a nod to the 70s. I'm not too fond of this ensemble for her. I think she actually has pretty excellent personal style, and has looked much better than this. I met Barbara and her sister in person once and while everyone else was lining up to ask them questions about their father's campaign (*yawn*), I was quick to ask Barbara where she found those amazing shoes she was wearing (they were Jenna's).

The rest of the photos in this shoot are rather lackluster, too, though I was happy to see Lisa Airan engaging in fashion outside of the world of Vogue. The idea is also kind of stale (young society doyennes). Nevertheless, I'm happy to see Barbara getting out there and trying something new. Maybe she'll follow in the fashionable footsteps of her cousin, Lauren, one of my absolute favorite arbiters of style and taste.

(**Photo from V courtesy of nymag.com/daily/fashion**)

Cathy Horyn Can Make Tomato Sauce or Read Vogue

2010-08-26T13:55:00.000-07:00

I really love Cathy Horyn's take on the September issues of Vogue and Harper's Bazaar. In her August 20th blog post entitled "Big Sisters," she wrote that Vogue can be as "strange and dense and rueful as a novel" while Harper's Bazaar this time around is replete with "confidence, clarity, and directness." Quite a stark contrast, I would say! I definitely agree with her that Bazaar put forth a stellar September issue. The articles were readable, the editorials were whimsical and unique, and the subscriber cover was the most artistic cover I can remember in years. Well done, Glenda Bailey et al!

Maybe Horyn didn't give the September issue of Vogue a fair shake, though. Her main criticism of Vogue (not just the September issue), while undeniably veracious, is that the publication puts too much emphasis on class and, well, snobbery. She cited a quotation from an article featuring Charlotte Casiraghi by Vicki Woods that had Casiraghi "snootily" instructing the author to search for the name of her (Charlotte's) boyfriend on the internet if she wanted to know his name so badly. This was just one case in which Vogue seems to favor society and privilege above anything else (as Horyn mentioned in her article, Casiraghi was still "portrayed in the photograph as a class act"). I think Horyn is correct in pointing this out, but Vogue wasn't the only publication to have an article devoted exclusively to socialites and privileged European fashionistas.

Derek Blasberg wrote an article titled "The New Fashion Flock" for Bazaar in which he provided the readers a guide to who is filling the front rows at fashion shows these days. I'll give you a hint: these girls aren't plebians. They're young girls from uber-wealthy and privileged European families, much like Charlotte Casiraghi. Bianca Brandolini d'Adda, Eugenie Niarchos, Tatiana Santo Domingo (OK, she's not from a rich European family), Margherita Missoni, et al. So, I'm not sure if Horyn's criticism of Vogue was entirely fair since Bazaar has kind of been guilty of doing the same thing lately.

I hope Cathy Horyn will put off making that tomato sauce until after she has read both magazines completely.

My FNO Sample Itinerary

2010-08-24T07:16:00.000-07:00

If you haven't been to the official Fashion's Night Out website, I highly recommend it! This is the kind of website that you could spend hours on, sifting through the myriad of options available to shoppers on September 10th when FNO goes down. You can even create a sample itinerary to help you organize your shopping priorities. There are just way too many options to chose from, though, so I had a very difficult time just narrowing my selections down to eight. Obviously, the place to be is Bergdorf Goodman, since that is where Hamish Bowles, Tom Ford, and Victoria Beckham will be. Yes, please!

Here's a look at a few of the (other) places I'd stop by on FNO (image designs courtesy of www.fashionsnightout.com):

Akris

835 Madison Avenue New York NY 10021

View Website

212.717.1170

Facebook

Twitter6-10pm at the Akris boutique to celebrate Fashion's Night Out with Claiborne Swanson Frank, Veronica Swanson Beard, Alexis Swanson Traina, and Vogue Photography Director Ivan Shaw for a special photography exhibition- Indigo Light: a collection of portraits by Claiborne Swanson Frank. A percentage of the evening's proceeds will benefit Baby Buggy.

Balenciaga

542 West 22 Street btw. 10th and 11th Aves. New York NY 10011

View Website

212 206 0872

Facebook

TwitterFNO Collection Available In-Store

Nicolas Ghesquière & Balenciaga present an evening of exceptional events for Fashion’s Night Out on Friday, September 10, 2010, at the Balenciaga NY boutique. For one evening only, from 8 PM– 10:30 PM, Balenciaga is proud to feature the US exhibition debut of the Cindy Sherman Untitled (Balenciaga) Series. At 9 PM Balenciaga presents a special live musical performance by Karen Elson, performing songs from her debut album The Ghost Who Walks, produced by Jack White. For full press notes and images, please contact Cynthia Leung at cynthia.leung@us.balenciaga.com or 212.279.4440

Banana Republic

Rockefeller Center 626 Fifth Avenue New York NY 10111

View Website

212-974-2350

Facebook

TwitterJoin us for a celebration of style, co-hosted by The New Yorker. View an exclusive exhibition of fashion covers from The New Yorker’s extensive 85-year archive. From 6-7 p.m., meet the magazine’s covers editor Françoise Mouly and Banana Republic creative director Simon Kneen. Plus enjoy sparkling wine, hors d’oeuvres and shopping incentives on full-priced merchandise all night long. One night only – only at Banana Republic Rockefeller Center.

Bergdorf Goodman

754 Fifth Ave at 58th Street New York NY 10019

View Website

212-753-7300

Facebook

TwitterNO Collection Available In-Store

FNO Collection Available Online

Appearances By: Jason Wu Mary J. Blige Nicole Richie Simon Spurr Thom Browne Tom Ford Victoria Beckham 6-11: 5F Photo Studio 6: Face-Off Makeup Artist Competition With judges BryanBoy, Catherine Malandrino, Hamish Bowles & Trish McEvoy. 7: BG Best In Show: Designer Dogs Take The Catwalk! MC Robert Verdi. Judges Kelly Rutherford, Monique Lhuillier & Tinsley Mortimer. 8: Play With The Pros With athletes Georgina Bloomberg, Joey Cheek, Sarah Hughes & Tim Morehouse. 9: Karaoke! Special host Patrick McMullan. Complete BG Info: http://blog.bergdorfgoodman.com/womens-style/fno

Henri Bendel

712 Fifth Avenue New York NY 10019

View Website

212.247.1100

Facebook

TwitterFNO Collection Available In-Store

6-11pm Reality stars,The Fabulous Beekman Boys ,with cameras, bring the country to Fifth Ave. with a General Store. Get a 10 min reading with astrologer Susan Miller for $25; benefits Housing Works. Lustr, a New York Magazine top10 fashion app, demos the app. Launch of Atelier Swarovski collection featuring Karl Lagerfeld. 6-9pm Fekkai, Marchesa and Olivia Palermo have a Red Carpet moment that you can share on Facebook/Twitter. 7-9pm Bendel illustrator, Izak, signs one of a kind“green”totes for $100; proceeds go to charity. 8:30-10:30pm Model Erin Wasson presents her jewelry collection LOWLUV.

Jimmy Choo

716 Madison Avenue 645 New York NY 10022

View Website

212 759 7078 or 212

Facebook

TwitterFNO Collection Available In-Store

Both New York stores- Madison Avenue at 64th Street and 51st Street at Fifth Avenue will remain open for late night shopping until 11pm with champagne and refreshments. Both will be selling the Fashion's Night Out t-shirt. Only at the Madison Ave boutique- be the first to view and pre-order for one night only- the much anticipated Jimmy Choo & UGG boot collaboration! The capsule collection will officially launch for sale globally on October 21, 2010. The collection is based on the iconic UGG Australia boot construction with design details that embody the spirit of the Jimmy Choo brand.

Kate Spade New York

454 Broome Street New York NY 10013

View Website

212.274.1991

Facebook

TwitterFNO Collection Available In-Store

Join Tim Gunn, chief creative officer of Liz Claiborne inc and co-host of project runway, and deborah lloyd, creative director of kate spade new york, for a window styling contest at the kate spade Broome street flagship. Contestants will create displays inspired by tim gunn's newest book, Gunn’s Golden Rules: life’s little lessons for making it work and the designs will be judged by tim and Deborah. Pick up a copy of Gunn's golden rules and have it autographed while sipping a gin and tonic. Head home with a limited-edition cosmetics case, available exclusively for fashion’s night out.

Textile Arts Center

505 Carroll Street Brooklyn NY 11215

View Website

718-369-0222

Facebook

TwitterThe Center + Ecouterre.com host "Celebrating Slow", a night of eco-fashion education, DIY, and shopping w/ local designers! (Titania Inglis, ReMadeUSA, Wiksten, Shabd, M2) 6-7PM: Fashion Project's HACK SUSTAINABLE FASHION Workshop: What's your fashion manifesto? 7-8:30PM: PANEL w/ Jill Fehrenbacher (ecouterre, inhabitat), Sarah Scaturro (Cooper Hewitt), Greta Eagan (FashionMeGreen), Caroline Priebe (Uluru), Titania Inglis, Shabd Simon-Alexander, London Sheriff (WasteNotWantNot) 8:30-11PM: SHOPPING; WORKSHOPS: Bags for the People, Sewing Rebellion, natural dyeing; FOOD, DRINKS, DJ Whistlepunk.

Great Britain and Ireland for All Seasons

2010-08-20T10:54:00.000-07:00

I've been collecting DK Eyewitness travel guides since middle school, and I love seeing how the series continues to expand and grow. One of the newest incarnations has been the "Where to Go When" editions. Along with the original guide, DK has launched the Americas, Italy (coming in September), and the one I'm currently in love with, Great Britain and Ireland. As with all DK travel guides, "Where to Go When: Great Britain and Ireland" is loaded with colorful photos, hotel recommendations, maps, websites, and cultural information. Though the book helpfully divides Great Britain and Ireland's top attractions seasonally, the guide truly offers enough suggestions to fill up a lifetime of travel through this most enchanting land.

Here are a few of my favorite suggestions for each season:

SPRING

- Experiencing the Georgian charm of Alresford in Hampshire. In addition to the lively Watercress Festival and Eel House, travelers can also pay homage to Jane Austen at her home in nearby Chawton.

- The "bewitching views" of Pendle Hill in Lancashire. This was the site of the most famous witch trial in English history.

- London. Though the editors at DK have placed London into the spring chapter, there truly is no inopportune time to visit what I believe is the world's greatest city. One could spend ten lifetimes exploring London and still have a whirlwind of merriment to enjoy. This guide offers an excellent introduction for first-time visitors.

- Oxford, the city that is in "a class of its own." Three and half of the best months of my entire life were spent here, so Oxford will forever be close to my heart. "Where to Go When" has excellent suggestions for experiencing the best of Oxford, like the Radcliffe Camera, Turf Tavern, Evensong at the colleges, and the Botanic Garden.

SUMMER

- The Isle of Wight. I've always wanted to visit this south coast locale, and the editors at DK suggest doing so in the summer when the temperatures are a comfortable 60-66 degrees. Be sure to visit the iconic Needles.

- The Orkney Islands, off the northern coast of Scotland. If you want to see stone circles, this is the place for you. Both the Ring of Brodgar and the Stones of Stenness are found here.

- The castles and coastline of South Wales. Just a few of the castles you'll see here are Chepstow, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Laugharne, and Carreg Cennen.

FALL

- Windsor and Eton. In addition to seeing Windsor Castle and Eton College, Hampton Court Palace is just fifteen miles southeast. For history-lovers, the town of Runnymede is of particular significance since this was where King John signed the Magna Carta in 1215.

- The Mountains of Mourne on the east coast of Northern Ireland. Explore the beaches of Newcastle, Tollymore Forest Park, and the Silent Valley.

- Visit the "bonnie, bonnie banks" of Loch Lomond, Scotland where you'll also see Stirling Castle and the ruins of Inchmahome.

WINTER

- Stonehenge in Wiltshire, England. DK recommends visiting for the winter solstice. The stones are roped off during other parts of the year, so this is one of the rare opportunities to actually get close to the mystical stones. Salisbury Cathedral, the finest 13th-century Gothic cathedral in Britain, is also nearby.

- York, England. York Minster is one of the most impressive cathedrals in all of Britain.

- Chester in Northwest England. I really love this small city that is practically on the Welsh border. The city has ancient walls which encompass it and contain all sorts of whimsical shops. The large cathedral is also impressive.

I highly recommend "Where to Go When: Great Britain and Ireland" to anyone looking to explore this region in depth. You will never be unable to come up with amazing places to visit and spectacular sights to see.

September is the January of Fashion

2010-08-13T13:43:00.000-07:00

September marks the beginning of a new cycle of fashion, or so says Candy Pratts Price. It is also the most important month of the entire year for the magazine world. So, which magazines put forth the most exciting, innovative, and fashion-forward covers for September? Here are some of my top picks:

The subscriber's edition of Harper's Bazaar. This is the best cover design I've seen all year. I haven't seen Jennifer Aniston look this edgy or fashion-forward on a magazine cover since the February 2003 issue of W. It would figure that my subscription to Bazaar just ended, so I'm stuck with the yawn-inducing newsstand cover (see below). Maybe I can buy the issue off of a library...

The newsstand cover is like a night-and-day contrast to the artistic subscriber cover. This one is perfectly suited towards the mainstream who have absolutely no interest in fashion.

While not a fashion magazine, I really love Vanity Fair's cover photograph of Lady Gaga. I just love the way she is styled, and I also love that silver hair, which seems to be on-trend these days.

I like this cover shot of Halle Berry. I think her hair looks fantastic and uber-chic. I know that Anna feels like a big statement was made by featuring an African American woman on the cover of a September issue. I just think (no offense to Ms. Berry, who is quite lovely) that Chanel Iman or Liya Kebede would have been more exciting cover choices. They are both highly talented models who are truly deserving of Vogue's top cover honor.

W's different redesigns for September. I'm not crazy about any of these cover images, but I'm most drawn to the middle image. I'm extremely curious to see how Mr. Tonchi has changed the magazine, though.

I also really love British Vogue's Kate Moss cover. Everything about this cover is just perfect.

(** images from Google**)

Less than one month until Fashion's Night Out!

2010-08-12T07:46:00.001-07:00

Fashion's biggest, most inclusive night of the year is less than a month away! And this year's event is primed to be even bigger than last year's inaugural event. To find out what will be happening when and where, be sure to check out FNO's Twitter page, Facebook page, and the official website at www.fashionsnightout.com.

Fear not if you can't make it to New York. From Washington, D.C. to London, Tokyo, and Sydney, there is bound to be an event near you. There are two other ways to take part in the action this year. "Fashion's Night Out: The Show" will be taking place at Lincoln Center on September 7th. Tickets for the largest fashion show ever to be held in NYC go on sale August 19th. According to vogue.com, the show will include over 150 models! CBS will stream the event live and vogue.com will have the show on its website the day after the performance. CBS will also be airing a special documentary on the making of FNO on September 14th at 10 p.m.

I don't know about you, but I am overwhelmed with excitement and anticipation for this year's event! I just hope that Hamish Bowles will be singing Noel Coward standards again because I do not want to miss out on that for a second year in a row! I'm also hoping to disguise my resume and writing portfolio in a cleverly-crafted fan letter to Mr. Bowles...

So, what are your plans for FNO? Will you be in NYC or London? Which fashion designers/personalities are you hoping to see?

More FNO updates and coverage to come as we approach the big event! Stay tuned!

Tinsley Mortimer and I Have Something in Common

2010-08-09T08:45:00.001-07:00

There's nothing more annoying than walking into a clothing store and being asked fifty million times if you need help with something, if you have any questions, or if you are looking for something in particular. Menacing sales associates are the main reason that I shop as little as possible. I just don't want to fend off ten salesgirls while I browse around a store!

Apparently veteran shopper Tinsley Mortimer agrees. She told WWD (which The Cut posted) "I don't like them helping me. I know what I like, and I prefer them to just let me go. I'll probably buy more if I don't feel any pressure." I couldn't agree more! If I need help finding something in particular (i.e. a size that is not on the sales floor), or if I have a question about the ratio of nylon to cotton in that blouse, believe me, I'll ask. If, however, I am continually pestered, I will indeed have a question for the salesgirl, and that question will be "Where is the nearest exit?!"

I've long been mystified regarding the sales approach of clothing stores. Do they really think that this is how sales are made? Sometimes I just want to wander through a store to see what's new. I won't be buying anything, even if you tell me that the sweater I'm holding can spin straw into gold. I'm just here to look. Also, I really don't require a stranger's help with finding a piece of clothing. I've been dressing myself for almost twenty years now (OK, my dad picked out my clothes in elementary school!), and I have a well-developed aesthetic. Plus, I enjoy searching for that perfect piece and stumbling upon an interesting find.

I realize that there are exceptions to this shopping preference, though. I can't imagine shopping for a wedding gown without the assistance of a sales associate. Also, if a man is searching for a gift for his wife/girlfriend/daughter, I can understand how this might necessitate assistance. There needs to be that happy medium between completely ignoring a prospective customer and bothering him/her to the point where the customer makes a beeline for the door.

How do you feel about shopping? Are you with Tinsley and I in that you know what you're looking for and just want to be left to it in a clothing store, or do you enjoy a certain amount of assistance from the sales associates?

The Search for the Perfect Bag

2010-08-08T08:21:00.000-07:00

Handbags are probably my least favorite accessory to purchase and, sadly, I am in desperate need of a new one. My last go-to bag was purchased in London in 2007 at New Look, which is basically a British Forever 21 equivalent. Nevertheless, this was a fantastic black doctor bag that was loaded with roomy pockets, chic stitching details, and versatile handles. It also constantly garnered approval from strangers. So, I am now in the market for a new bag. I need something that travels well, something that can handle a lot of wear and tear (my trusty New Look bag survived nearly three years and two big cross-Europe trips), and something that is unique. I've really been favoring cross-body bags as of late, so that's probably what I'll concentrate on.

Here are a few looks from Gap, Inc./ Piperlime that are either top contenders for the role of New Bag, or are indicative of what I'm looking for:

I really love this Marc by Marc Jacobs bag, but it's inconceivable for me to spend $400 on a handbag. If I can buy round trip airfare to London for not much more, I'm definitely not spending it on a purse. No way, no how.

This Rebecca Minkoff cross-body bag has everything I'm looking for in a new carryall. The only problem, again, is the price. These are the details that I would want a prospective bag to have, though.

I kind of like this mustard-yellow cross-body bag from Nine West. The only problem I can see is that it is predominantly nylon, and I'm not sure if a nylon bag can truly go the distance.

This mini chain bag from Banana Republic obviously couldn't be my new multi-purpose, go-to bag, but I'm strangely drawn to it. This bag would be so much fun for nights out, dressy dinners, cocktails, etc.

I haven't bought a handbag from the Gap since high school, but this two-tone coated canvas bag has real potential. The bag also possesses more uptown elegance than its small price tag would suggest.

(** all images from piperlime.gap.com and gap.com**)

America's Favorite Cities

2010-08-01T09:03:00.000-07:00

Travel + Leisure wants to know what America's favorite cities are. For the magazine's annual survey, you can rate your favorite city on everything from the quality of its cultural and historical monuments to the abundance of its microbreweries or farmers' markets. You can even rate the city based on the attractiveness and friendliness of its inhabitants. The 35 cities include standards like New York, D.C., Chicago, and Boston along with smaller noteworthy gems like Philadelphia, Providence, Savannah, and Seattle. I only took the survey for three cities: New York, D.C., and Chicago since these are the American cities that I have spent the most time in. How did I rate these cities?

Well, New York received high marks for the diversity and stylishness of its residents, but loooooow marks for the friendliness of said residents. If you've ever been temporarily lost in New York and tried to ask for directions, you know exactly what I'm talking about. Of course the city received the highest scores in categories like neighborhood joints, luxury stores, vintage boutiques, nightlife, and cultural attractions. I gave it low marks for cleanliness (after Rome, New York is without a doubt the dirtiest city I've ever visited) and ease of public transportation. I have an easier time getting around Warsaw than I do New York.

How did our nation's capital fare? Well, I gave D.C. high marks for the quality of its historical monuments (obviously!), cleanliness, ease of public transportation, the intelligence of its inhabitants (yes, that was a category...a category in which L.A. always comes in last), the quality/ abundance of classical music venues, and the access to outdoor parks and recreation. I was unsure of the friendliness and stylishness of the inhabitants. Traditionally, D.C. is where fashion comes to die, but that's been changing recently, so I was optimistic.

Chicago generally received middle-of-the-road marks from me, mainly since I haven't visited in a few years. I didn't think I had a valid opinion in many categories like noteworthy neighborhoods, singles bars, and public transportation (I've always walked or gotten around via taxi). I did give Chicago high marks for the quality of its museums, ethnic restaurants, skyline, and friendliness of inhabitants.

How would you rate our nation's cities? Take the survey at http://www.travelandleisure.com/afc/2010 and watch for the official results in the December 2010 issue of T+L!

The Fashion Vagabond

Cha-cha-changes

April Showers Bring...Royal Weddings?

The Wisdom and Disenchantment of the Style Rookie

easyJet Heads to Amman, Jordan

The Fabulous Traina Sisters

Alexandra Kotur Departs Vogue

Inspiration and the Bookstore Tradition

"To a Mountain in Tibet" Part One

Happy Birthday, Grace!

6

Sarah Burton's Ice Queen and Court for McQueen

Vintage Linda Evangelista

Jesus Statue Puts Swiebodzin on the Map

Mum's the Word at Vogue

The End of an Era

And the Oscar for Best Dressed Goes To...

Prada's Ladylike Innocence

Breaking News: Galliano Suspended from Dior

Prada Live from Milan

Street Style Four Ways

Emma Watson's Bewitching Valentino

Hamish Bowles to Address the Oxford Union

A Candle for Hope

Best in Show

Katie Couric Meets The Style Rookie

How to Wear Prada Spring RTW

A Walk Down Memory Lane

Fashioning Twitter

War and Peace (and fashion?)

Valentino: The Prettiest Couture Collection of Them All

Time for Spring Couture Already?

Flawless Rodarte

The Wisdom of Samantha Brown

Mrs. O Radiates in McQueen

Into the Gloss: High Fashion Meets the World of Beauty

20 More Places to Visit in 2011

Golden Globes: Tilda Swinton in Jil Sander

The Best of the Pre-Fall Collections

The Opinion of Fashion

Vogue Interiors

In Love With Nina Ricci Pre-Fall 2011

"The Warhol Treatment"

The NYT's 41 Places to Visit in 2011

Fashion Projects: Collecting Fashion

Ballet Beautiful

"Twilight Visions:" Brassaï's Contemporaries

Goodreads 2011 Book Challenge

The Year in Review

Lady Gaga: 2010's Best Dressed?

LSD's Trunk Show

French Vogue v. American Vogue, Or Know Thy Audience

Diaghilev and the Ballet Russes at the V&A

Holiday Party Razzle Dazzle

Lauren Bush and David Lauren Make It Official

The Official Royal Engagement Photo

Presidential Holiday Style

2010's Top Books

Lanvin for H&M on the Red Carpet

Katy Perry's Bejeweled Red Lips

Holiday Wish List

Angelina Jolie Again?! *Yawn*

Lauren Bush for the Gap

Chanel Iman Dazzles at the CFDA Awards

The Royals and Vogue

A Royal Wedding is Upon Us!

The Perennial Accessory: Scarves

Liu Wen Looks Nothing Like Herself in the New Estée Lauder Ads

Fakes are Never in Fashion this Election Season

Our First Lady, the Style Star

I can officially remove W from my reading list...

Charlotte Casiraghi's Dazzling Purple and Red Chanel

Valentino Spring 2011: Feminine, Romantic Bliss

Now That's What I Call Fashion: Haider Ackermann Spring 2011

Where the Models Are: Balenciaga and Balmain

Bold, Bright Bananas at Prada

From London: Jonathan Saunders Spring RTW 2011

Elle Promotes Unhealthy Body Images with the October Issue

Vintage Vogue Nostalgia

ASME's Best Magazine Covers 2010

Angelina Jolie Again?! Yawn