September 13, 2011
by fashion pulse contributor


[Images Courtesy of Payless]
Before any model graced the runway at Lela Rose, the designer played “Imagine” in its entirety, a song reminiscent of peace; one world, one people. Only then did she begin her runway collection of beautiful, whimsical, overtly feminine pieces. Rose drew on a variety of inspirations from Vegas neon signs, the Coney Island amusement park, and graveyards to create signature checked spring jacquard and “carousel” cotton prints. Cinched waist dresses appeared in navy, white, gray, yellow, pink and more. Airy polka dotted skirts flounced by, cute cardigans made a sweet statement, and gold metallic floor length gowns reigned. A striking orange jacket, sure to stop traffic, left a lasting impression in classic structure. Pattern, embellishment, and even a few feathers made an elegant appearance on this runway. She also unveiled the latest Lela Rose for Payless ShoeSource collection. The footwear proved to be as vibrant as the clothing with graphic shapes and resin studding. When all is said and done, Lela Rose successfully crafted an approachable, girly collection for SS12.
–Alana Quagliariello
September 12, 2011
by fashion pulse contributor

Pulling from her background in both luxury and contemporary design, Joy Cioci’s goal is to always create modern apparel with luxurious detailing. The effortless wear of the clothing does not speak to the intimate thought process behind the vision. The SS12 collection felt fun and youthful in its colorful majesty (blue, red-orange, chartreuse, and white). Day dresses in cotton and silk were paired with wide, brimmed floppy hats. Lace popped up in blouses, yet leather arrived on shorts and pleated pants. For me, however, the showstopper was the cotton black crochet lace blouse paired with the silk chiffon black and white motion stripe print maxi skirt. Cioci’s goal is to design with love, and it’s hard not to be smitten with her aesthetic.
–Alana Quagliariello
September 10, 2011
by Julia DiNardo

From our friends at thefind.com:
No fall fashion wardrobe is ever complete without the addition of tweed. From dresses, to skirts, to pants which are always ready to wear to work and beyond. Need some new tweed inspiration? This season, tweed coats are what you want and our favorite designers have created some beautiful, updated, and unconventional designs that are ready to keep you warm and undeniably looking chic during all hours of the day. Milly, Burberry Prosum, and Lanvin have a few gorgeous constructions that are all parts class and 100% luxury. In colors that are ready for winter wear, they are neutrals that don’t just catch the eye, they boast a runway –inspired style that will signify a sophistication that will be all your own no matter how windy or nippy the outdoor commute may get. Top off your favorite winter wardrobe with this three amazing modernized tweed swathes and enjoy the extravagance of these designers for years, and cold-weather seasons, to come: Lanvin Bow Embellished Tweed, Milly Suede Trim Cape, and Burberry Prorsum Wool Tweed Coat.
– Mira Torres
August 12, 2011
by Julia DiNardo

From our friends at thefind:
If you’ve been a fan of the casual-yet-chic desert boot trend — more western and slightly edgier than the oxford styles, but with that same boyish charm — or even if you weren’t quite sold by the flat takes on the style, you may find a new obsession in this season’s heeled versions! Without sacrificing the desert boot’s laid-back feel that makes it so popular, these takes on the trend give the style a sophisticated update, while the added height makes the original low-key look significantly more strut-worthy while still keeping its comfort. Additionally, the suede finish makes the look a little more luxe, and somehow just manages to automatically scream ‘Fall!’ If you’re not afraid of height or a nice chunky wedge, take a look at Tory Burch’s ‘Denise’ wedge , but if you want the height without the blocky look, consider these Steve Madden lace-up Taara boots! For a more classic desert style, try Madewell’s Suede Sandstorm Boot in a fall-festive shade like “Flint” or play it safe and stick with black like these ‘Kallin’ boots from Aldo for a pair that will carry you through the winter!
– Alex Gambardella