September 13, 2011
by Julia DiNardo
[All Images Courtesy of ELLE.com]
By the middle of the week, it seemed to be evident that two very distinct color stories were emerging from New York Fashion Week; one, was very poppy and bright, mixing color blocking into technicolor, sporty proportions, while the other was comprised of earth tones such as ochre, beige and solid brown, mixed with abstract prints and dark beads fitting into the tribal category.
Donna Karan executed the latter for spring, in a graphic collection that boasted rouge lips and hard, horsetail like ponytails, swaying vigorously as each model walked past. Burnt oranges and subdued lime gowns came toward the end, however Karan showed a definitive dedication to the clay-hued theme, influenced by the time she’s been spending in Haiti and executed to refined perfection. She did incorporate her functional, cozy Casual Luxe pieces at the beginning of the show, proving that no matter what direction Karan may go each season, she always will provide enduring lifestyle pieces meant for everyday wear.
–Julia DiNardo
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
New York can be quite raw, grungy, and a bit dangerous- and that was exactly the inspiration behind Altuzarra’s Spring/Summer 2012 show. An androgynous, messy feminine aesthetic brought to life a cleaner version of so-called grunge, a trend that has resurfaced in a new, slightly polished way. Bold, dark eyebrows and straight “destroyed” hair create the deconstructed look. Yet, the cleanest part of the look was the nude nails, meant to look like a “second skin.” Artist Candice Manacchio of CND explained how any classic woman with a modern edge could rock these nails day to night. The first coat is a nude Putty layered with a second Super Matte Top Coat to avoid any and all shine. The look is real and functional in a dynamic way.
–Alana Quagliariello
September 12, 2011
by Julia DiNardo
No matter what the temperature, a pop of color will brighten up your day, even if the skies outside are grey. I really wanted to wear my new cutout wedges, a complimentary pair I received from my showroom at ShoeDazzle. Within a few minutes of walking into work, several people were gushing over how great these shoes are, and I have to say I completely agree! If you’re not familiar with ShoeDazzle, it’s a site that functions around you filling out a few style-related questions, then you get personalized selections of shoes and bags based on your preferences.
It’s free to sign up, and every single pair of shoes on the site are $39.95 with free shipping and returns, plus you get 20% off your first purchase. I just looked in my ‘showroom’ on the site, which just rotated in fall boots; under $40 is a pretty good deal for this inclement weather must-have, that includes knee-high boots. Have you joined ShoeDazzle or another site with styles based on personal preferences?
In this look:
Kenneth Cole Jacket (Courtesy of Kenneth Cole)
Kenneth Cole white jeans (Courtesy of Kenneth Cole)
Wynonna Blue Suede Wedges (Courtesy of ShoeDazzle)
–Julia DiNard0
