Spring Trends: Nude

Sorry for the lack of posts lately. I took a little break to take in all of that "Obamania" since I knew that everyone would be talking about Michelle's dresses and every single thing Obama did this week..

But I've decided that in honor of new beginnings, I would do a couple of posts on spring fashion, especially since the RTW fall shows are just around the corner. Time really flies doesn't it?

The first trend I'm documenting is nude! At first I was so disappointed to see a lack of colour in some of my favourite spring shows, but I'm really falling in love with this trend. First of all, it's sexy! When worn in particular ways, nude can be a substitute for actually bearing one's skin. Second, it's versatile. There isn't much that doesn't go with neutral colours, and your looks can be punched up with colourful accessories - look out for the next trend: statement jewellery. Lastly, it's simple. This is most important because times are hard in economies worldwide and it's so easy to follow this trend on the cheap.

I've put together some outfits demonstrating how you can wear nude from day to night. I'll add an office look if there is a demand..enjoy!

For colour choices note that traditional "skin" tones work best on women with olive and darker complexions, while those with paler skin should try pink or gold.

Hot or Not?

Uh-oh, not another one of these hip hop fashionista clones! Teairra Mari is back, which I thought might be a good thing because I'm dying for some new R&B! After hearing her first single though (and Christina Milian's for that matter), it's clear that I'm not going to get any.

But back to Teairra's outfit. She is dressed head to toe in Louis Vuitton (the Stephen Sprouse collection), which is a little weird. Is there an endorsement deal in the pipeline? I highly doubt it. But would her stylist really do this to her? Admittedly, she does look kind of cute in a high school kind of way. Her whole revamped "high-fashion" look is clearly to compete with Rihanna, but she's coming across as the poor man's Rihanna with this. I think maybe if she removed the scarf, ditched the LV speedy bag and opted for a clutch and some opentoe booties, I might like it.

What do you guys think of her look?

Will Smith in Madrid: Seven Pounds Premiere

This is completely superfluous, but did you guys see Will Smith at the Seven Pounds premiere in Madrid? I mean I know he's a married man.. (I say that as if that's the only thing standing between he and I, lol).. but he was looking fione! I went through all the possible terms I could use to describe his sexy and none of them seemed good enough, so I had to go with a throw back from I don't know.. 1993? But whatever. The point is, he looks so young and fresh (no pun intended), and I love his suit. I know this is a fashion blog, but I have no idea who designed this grey suit. I just needed you guys to see this. And I'm not usually a fan of the skinny tie, but it works!

If I can find out who dressed him, I mean other than Jada, I will update this post. For now, just enjoy :)

Update

I still don't know who Will is wearing, but I just found this photo of Rosario Dawson at the Rome premiere for Seven Pounds. I've always been a fan of her style, but she blew me away in this strapless Bottega Veneta dress. It's so simple, but she has never looked more gorgeous. I'm speechless..and kind of in love.

(no homo...not that there's anything wrong with that)

Jourdan Dunn on the cover of Elle France

I adore Jourdan Dunn. She is quickly becoming my favourite fashion model, next to Liya Kebede and Agyness Deyn. She recently graced the cover of Elle France, and I just wanted to post it because I think she looks amazing. I can't believe how young she is! It must be crazy to get discovered in the mall and then almost overnight you're this huge sensation. In November she was awarded model of the year at the 2008 British Fashion Awards, which was awarded to Agyness Deyn in 2007.

I've highlighted the racism ingrained in the fashion industry before, so I won't go there again, but I think Jourdan is an extremely important figure in the industry right now because she is a black woman. She is closest thing we've had to a supermodel in years. And she sells. This is said with no intention to take away from her beauty and talent, however. I don't want this to be a Barack situation!

Here are a few photos of Jourdan appearing on the spring 09 catwalks for 1. Alexander McQueen, 2. Prada, and 3. Rodarte

2009 Golden Globes Fashion

I was perusing the internet early this morning and I think it’s really funny to see all these best and worst dressed lists with the same looks ending up on either side, depending on the reviewer. Some were so skewed i.e. if you won, or at least appeared in something successful over the past year, you looked great. At least the awards show itself was pretty fair, unlike the MTV Music Video Awards.. where apparently you can sweep the show if you work out, take a shower, and put on a sparkly dress - you know, instead of shaving your head and going to mental institutions.

But, I digress. And not to belabour the point, but here's another subjective list :) I have a definite number 1, but there were so many great looks on the red carpet that there's only a rough ordering on the rest. I'd love to hear your thoughts so please vote in the comment section on your favourite looks. Let's get started!

1. Kate Beckinsale was an absolute dream in this white, sculpted custom-made J. Mendel gown.


2. A close second was Eva Longoria, who looked ravishing in this red Reem Acra fishtail gown.


3. Evan Rachel Wood's tiered black Elie Saab gown was to die for. She looked absolutely amazing from top to bottom.


4. Kate Winslet was a classic beauty in this strapless Yves Saint Laurent gown.

5. Rumer Willis was a pleasant surprise in this plum number with black belt. The bodice fit a little too low, but the dress is gorgeous - my favourite purple of the night.

6. Beyonce brought the sex appeal with this form fitting bejewelled gown - another Elie Saab creation. P.S. I hope Jay brought an oxygen tank - can she breathe?

7. I know you may think 7 is an odd number with which to end a list, but it's my blog and I can do what I want. But seriously, this last one just slipped in above the rest. I LOVE Sandra Bullock, and I was really impressed with, and a little shocked by her choice. The asymmetric top is very "now", the nude colour is also very current, the turquoise clutch is inspired, and I love the shape of this Christian Dior gown. My list just wouldn't be complete without her because she shows how a woman can look absolutely radiant without the glitz & glam, boobs & booty, and even without colour. She is the anti-JLo.

And lastly, a tip of the hat to Gilles (J.) Mendel for doing his thing all over the red carpet. Don't forget to vote!

Kanye West for Louis Vuitton: Boat Shoe Sneaker?

Kanye West has recently revealed the first of 6 shoes that he is expected to design for Louis Vuitton in a long-rumoured collaboration. Going for a clean design, given the LV brand, he has produced a deck shoe/AF1 hybrid.

I had no idea that men were heavy into boat shoes, but apparently these are what's hot in the streets. Well to clarify, low-cut, loafer type shoes in general are hot, with some dudes venturing into the boat shoe territory. On the one hand, I think it's cool that street style is evolving, but on the other, I think this is going to lead to another strain of resistance against the "ghettoization" of high class style.

That aside, I'm torn on Kanye's collaboration. Is Kanye a style maven? In my opinion, no. Being different is cool, even encouraged. But in Kanye's case it's just so forced. He just seems to throw things together as if he is anti-trendy. That's not style, it's a hot mess. Nonetheless, he is a huge name, and the self-declared "Louis Vuitton don", so this collaboration will undoubtedly be magic business-wise for both parties.

I do think the shoe is kind of cool. An astute commentator on hypebeast.com noted:

"..It has every element that’s in right now with the elite contemporary shoe buyer. It has the backing of a hiking inspired ankle/heel support. The trim of a loafer, the silhouette of a vans authentic, and the styling of a top-sider.."

I'll have to agree that it's a good idea. However, the execution needs some work. Just like in his personal style, he needs to work on refining his ideas. The wings at the back take away from the clean look of the shoe, and the sole is just a little too thick for a low-top. We'll give it a B+. But I look forward to seeing what else he has in store - way to build the suspense (and get some early feedback) Mr. West.

Speaking Of..

In my last post I mentioned the Notorious premiere which I wasn't going to cover because fashion-wise, it was a sordid affair. But, I couldn't mention Angie's dress and not show you guys what I was talking about. But before we get to that, my choice for favourite look of the night goes to who else, but Diddy. Say whatever you want about the man, the dude knows how to put an outfit together. Pay close attention to the shirt and tie combo if you have doubts..jeeze.

Next up, I really liked Naturi's dress as well. She was the only woman there to really impress me. Sorry Ciara. Plus, check out the neckline!!

And now that the suspense has been built, check out Angela's dress. I couldn't get a great shot, but isn't it cute? I just love how playful it is, and I love the colour on her. Still too flowy though!

As for Diddy's "unofficial girl".. I'm divided. At first, I flat out hated this. Now it's growing on me, but I wouldn't go so far as to say I like it. You can't tell in this picture, but the fit isn't great. And I don't get how this is what you wear to a movie premiere, nor do I get the school band motif. But she looks pretty as always..

Updates:

I hadn't seen these pictures of June Ambrose and Antonique Smith when I first posted this entry. Sorry Naturi, but these are definitely my favourite looks of the night - with Ms. Ambrose winning by a long shot. But as a stylist to the stars, I wouldn't expect much less.

Hot or Not?

Yesterday was the VH1 Critics' Choice Awards, and I peeped Taraji P. Henderson in this silvery/mauve dress.. Now I'm not sure I like this dress, although her total look is fabulous. What do you guys think? People seemed to have liked it. Am I just tripping?

Angela Bassett, whom I love(!), was also there, but she was dressed like Oprah when she has a Tyra body. I hated this look for her - made her look old! But I know she's still got it because I loved the dress that she wore to the Notorious premiere.

Eva Longoria (Parker) showed up in a gorgeous teal, Grecian-inspired dress. I think the dress was amazing (I enjoyed the bag also), but Eva is looking a little beat. Something about her hair and make-up was just off.

Lastly, I ADORED Anne Hathaway's two-tone Gianfranco Ferre dress. I think she could have done more to pull the whole look together - either her hair or her heels are too flat, but something about this is irking me. The dress fits perfectly though, and it's amazing.

Crowd Pleaser

How cute is Dakota Fanning? I never imagined that she would be the source of my favourite look for any event, but she managed to pull it off at the People's Choice Awards. I hope this doesn't sound too horrible, but I always thought she was kind of a weird looking kid. She started out very cute, and then got kind of awkward, but now she's really growing into her looks. But this isn't a beauty blog so back to her outfit.. Her BCBG cobalt blue one-strap dress is gorgeous. I like the minimal look in terms of jewellery and make up - very age-appropriate, and yet she looks more grown-up than I've ever seen her. Her mother must be so proud.. On another note, I've still not seen The Secret Life of Bees!

Inspired: Mataano

I am really into African inspired fashion these days (did you see Ralph Lauren's spring collection??). I just think it's beautiful. So I was really happy to learn about these two up & coming Somalian designers. Identical twins Ayaan and Idyl Mohallim launched their brand Mataano (Somali for twins), in late 2008. Appearing on Oprah and in Essence magazine, these twins are certainly gaining their footing in the fashion industry. They aspire to create a successful brand with a rich cultural heritage and I believe that they are on their way to doing just that. Their 2009 spring line is very simple, composed of only 10 dresses, but I definitely see promise. In contrast to the mostly muted colour palette of NY fashion week, I can clearly see the Somalian influence in their design aesthetic. I just love what they're doing (and their names, haha).

Below are my favourite looks from their collection. I'm loving this emerald green..

Here is a link for your viewing pleasure:
http://www.mataano.com/

Bebe Launches New Recession Friendly Line

Bebe is testing a new lower-priced concept Store in San Francisco that will target a younger clientele. The store, named simply "2b" will target customers 15-20 and prices will be 20 to 50 percent lower than those found at Bebe.

I've never been a huge fan of Bebe. It's not because I actively do not like it, but I've just never really gotten around to shopping there. I've only ever noticed the Bebe Sport store at the Eaton Centre, but apparently there is also a regular Bebe. I don't really care for overpriced sportwear, and I'm really not into logo gear, which is all I ever remember seeing as I walked by. Apparently I'm not alone on this because comments on this story (of the new store) seem to reflect a gross distaste for the brand. The most commonly used descriptor was 'cheap' - and that was not referring to the prices. Other more colourful terms included "whore clothing".

I'm just wondering, is a lower-priced Bebe store a good thing? Does anyone really love this brand? I was just on their website and I think it is pretty overpriced for what they're selling. The brand is just average in my opinion. However, I could see myself definitely buying one or two items. If this pilot store is successful, and pending that it ever reaches Toronto, I think I might give it a try. Check it out:

http://www.bebe.com/

Urban Fashion Reconsidered?

I have been against urban fashion for quite some time now. It's not that it wasn't a good idea, but I just felt like putting a logo on a t-shirt and capitalizing off your career as an artist did not make you a fashion designer. I still feel that way - very much so. However, it was naive of me to think that fashion was an equal opportunity industry where race didn't matter. It's simply much harder to create an ethnic design house. Most black designers are at least pseudo celebrities (hip hop mogul or Stevie Wonder's wife anyone?). Black models struggle to get work. And a friend of mine was even denied her prize of the cover of a magazine.. Now I can't officially say it was because she was black, but it was because she was black. That Black Vogue issue last summer was a VERY small step towards the recognition of black talent and beauty in the fashion industry.

In this light, I can see why urban fashion developed. It was to cater to a different demographic that is currently largely ignored. It was also a part of the trend of celebrities exploiting every opportunity to make money. Unfortunately, the quality of the product shows that in most cases, it was the latter motive. However, I still believe in urban fashion, and I hope that someone soon can take the reigns and lead this currently dying part of fashion to success. Just because it's "urban" doesn't mean it has to be ghetto or sloppy. Street fashion is being co-opted all the time by white design houses. Just take a look at who owns Baby Phat, Phat Farm, and Enyce today - not to mention that these owners have no idea how to handle or market these brands.

So I'm on the look-out for new ethnic designers in 09, and I'd like to see some style that's more New York and less Orange County this year. Let's make it happen.

Compare and Contrast

Do Take Risks..

Solange Knowles is definitely known for some questionable fashion choices, but at least she tries news things. She has been refining her style recently and I am really digging her New Years Eve outfit. I am not sold on the jewellery or the clutch.. but I think the dress is cute and I love the criss cross peep toe Chanel booties. I know that some people may not agree with me about the dress, but I think it fits really well and it just makes sense with the shoes. And it's not so out there, but Solange's personal style definitely shines through.

Don't.. Just don't..

Meagan Good. Why? I do not get this woman. She is gorgeous and she has such a nice body, but she still insists of wearing things like this! I think that Meagan Good is one of the worst dressed celebrities. She dresses like she thinks it's still 1998. I just don't get it.

Double Kate

I know it's winter and I promise I will stop posting about dresses soon, but I simply adore this silver and black dress worn by Kate Winslet in the February issue of Elle UK. Unfortunately, I can't for the life of me figure out who the designer is! Please write me if you know. I won't rest until I solve this mystery. I also think that the image is beautiful. She looks absolutely gorgeous, (and young!). Not that she's old or anything, but she's usually styled in the vein of her Titanic character, which certainly isn't a very modern look.

My other guilty pleasure are these Christian Louboutin crepe satin T-strap sandals! These were worn by Kate Hudson in the January issue of In Style. I LOVE these shoes. They are $995 at Saks, and honestly..I'm so tempted (not really, but I do accept gifts!). These are some ruffles that I can definitely get with.

I hope I don't sound like a complete loser when I say that I might shed a tear the day that I own a pair of my very own CL's. Ok I'm exaggerating, but there is virtually no item that I covet more. Except maybe a pair of YSL's..haha. And on a side note, Kate Winslet totally looks more like Goldie Hawn than Kate Hudson in these pictures. Weird.

Beyonce in St. Barts

In keeping with my post about dresses earlier, I thought I would add this Catherine Malandrino dress seen on Beyonce as she vacationed in the Caribbean over the holiday season. I love the dress, but I'm not sure that I love it on her. I'd seen these pictures a couple of times but I didn't love the dress until I saw the sketch. It's not that she's not wearing it well, I just think it looks 50 times more elegant in the sketch for some reason. Maybe it's because I haven't seen a dead-on shot of the dress on her. Either way, the dress is fabulous and she still looks cute.

Happy New Year!

I hope you all had a great time ringing in the new year! My new year was definitely filled with memories, but I was surprised at how hard it was to find a decent dress to wear out! To be honest, I didn't have time to go into the city so that definitely hurt my chances, but I can't believe how few stores were even selling dresses. I guess that's what happens when you shop during boxing week. Do you think stores sell out of their holiday dresses that early in the year or do they really not stock dresses until spring? This is my second year in a row doing the last minute dress shopping thing so I really don't know. Last year I was able to get this amazing purple dress from Limite for an even more amazing price. One side of the whole store was just dresses on sale. I was looking forward to that again this year, but no such luck. I ended up buying this cute, but not so well fitted dress from Urban Behaviour - not my favourite store at all, so you can tell I was pretty desperate. Anyway, the whole fiasco inspired me to do an expose on some of my favourite party dresses!

I am really digging the tube sweetheart neckline right now. I think it's great because it works for both petite and curvy women, and it can be very flirty and girly or sophisticated. For instance, this gold strapless dress ($22.80) from forever21 is a cute way to do this style:

Or you can go more classy with this satin, pocketed style ($24.80). I really like this dress because you can take it from day to night with accessories. You pair this with a little blazer and pumps for work, then with a glittery stiletto, funky clutch, and killer jewelry for a night out. You can even do this with a pair of black gladiator sandals and a small cardigan for a lunch out. It's the quintessential "little black dress" if you will.

I thought I was over sequins, and for the most part, I am. You can also add ruffles to that list - although I have a few ruffle-y pieces that I love and will be wearing this spring. But then I ran into this hot black dress ($98.00) from Bebe! It's not so much that sequins are out, it's just not enough to be shiny in my opinion. If you're going to do the sequin thing, don't just literally buy a plain dress covered in sequins. Make a statement. Besides, whether sequins are "in or out" this dress is killer.

Speaking of ruffles, here is a more subtle way to wear this look. The cut gives the illusion of ruffles, but they are really just strips of fabric. This reminds me of those tassel Tina Turner type dresses, but with a modern spin. In fact, my new years dress was a knock off of this dress! *shh* It's a BCBG Max Azria ($200) laser cut dress that I got for $34 including tax! Although the dresses look identical, I must admit that hers looks like it fit better than mine did. However, had I had the time to get it tailored, I definitely would save my $200.

Last but not least, I just wanted to give a quick mention to Yaya & Co. This is a store you may have seen in Scarborough town centre recently. I believe I first saw it in Vaughn Mills, but I could be wrong. In any case, they have a really great dress selection. I was weary because it looked a little cheap and hoochie (for lack of a better word) at first, but they actually have some nice stuff. In fact, it ended up being out of my price range, but still definitely affordable.

Best wishes to all for the new year!