Color Me Happy

I’m normally not a huge fan of the Milan Collections. I don’t know why, but I always feel like the New York and Paris shows speak to me more. Maybe it’s because more young, edgier designers choose to show in those cities (including London), or maybe it’s because Roberto Cavalli, my least favorite designer, is associated with Milan. Not to knock Mr. Cavalli or anything (he was a gentleman on last week’s episode of Project Runway) but I just don’t like clothes that scream “look at me I’m sexy”. ANYWAY, I must say I am completely in love with the Missoni collection for Fall ‘08. The way the colors were paired together – beautiful burnt reds with rustic oranges, dreamy pastel greens with burgundy, and turquoise with creamy chocolate brown. And the BOOTIES! Oh gosh, the booties. Patent leather grey and bright turquoise. Another thing to add to my “things I want list”. See for yourself.

Images from Style.com

Not Inspired

When asked what the inspiration behind his latest collection was, Marc Jacobs replied “nothing”. He just drew some beautiful sketches and went from there. If you ask me, I thought it was a boring answer and a very inspiring collection. The colonial hats and the orthopedic penny loafer hybrids paired with a jordan almond color palette got my attention. Sonic Youth was an added bonus.

There Will Be Blood

Does it get better than this? Rodarte’s Kate and Laura Mulleavy took fashion to another level with their manga inspired creations for Fall 08, turning out a collection that was pure phantasmal fairytale. A continuation from last season, the design duo looked to Japanese horror films for inspiration and whipped up a collection full of dramatic web-like knits and a plethora of white, black, and blood red dresses. A little bit punk, a little bit goth and a whole lot of sadomasochism brought on by the 5 inch heels adorned in spikes and studs (Christian Louboutin) left me wanting more. Aside from the dark color palette, there were pretty pastels that made their way onto full skirts and airy dream-like dresses – more ice princess than goth queen. It was a beautiful, well articulated vision that no doubt came from the vivid imaginations of two young designers who will be around for many seasons to come.

All images from Style.com

A Vintage Mall

Last weekend I went to the Santa Monica Vintage Expo for the first time accompanied by two lovely ladies, Sara and Siobhan. I didn’t really know what to expect and I was totally blown away in the first ten seconds. It was at the convention center and the best vintage vendors from around the world set up shop for two days, selling their goods at way too expensive (for me right now) prices. I felt like I was at a vintage shopping mall, mostly because it was indoors as opposed the the outdoor flea markets I normally go to for vintage shopping. There were some beautiful Victorian dresses, and if I’d had $250 to drop I probably would have. A mint condition Victorian dress would be perfect for my Marie Antoinette themed bridal shower next weekend, but I’m working with a freelance budget these days! Sara decided to browse the half off racks, and I did the same. We ended up totally scoring on a dress for the bridal shower (Sara), a dress for my engagement photos (Moi), some high waisted 80’s Jordache (Sara), and a few other amazing treasures at affordable prices. It was well worth the trip. Here are a few photos of some things I was drooling over.Vintage Victorian baby shoes. Out of control.Would make an amazing wedding dress.Such a lady.I would hem this up and wear it out on the town.These shoes have history.Vintage always looks merchandised much better than new things, wouldn’t you agree?I wanted this real bad.This must be what heaven looks like.

Borrowed From Les Boys

Fashion week has just started, and while it’s not even close to being over I can already say that I have a favorite collection. My new designer obsession: Alexander Wang. Still considered a newcomer to the fashion world, he’s quietly morphed into a “one to watch” in NYC and has developed quite a following amongst downtown gals. I’m totally into all the menswear inspired looks that are quickly trickling down from the runway to the streets, and Alexander Wang’s Fall 08 collection has a borrowed from the boys, post-grunge industrial look that I can’t get enough of. And while the collection may be on the darker side, there’s still a sense of femininity that resonates throughout. Rolled up denim shorts, oversize tuxedo blazers, slouchy pants, oversize tops, and ripped stockings are just a few of the pieces I have stuck in my head. Take a look.All images from Style.com