Blogger is letting me down...

Okay, well, apparently I can't upload pictures right now, so my awesome fall fashion post has to wait.

But I can bore you instead with a random idea.

One thing that I would like everyone's opinion on is a question that I have been pondering for quite some time, and I puzzle over it every fashion week without coming to a successful conclusion. So, the question is: Is it a DO or a DON'T to wear a designer's clothes from previous seasons to their fashion show?

Many celebs do this, as well as mere mortals who just so happen to be fashion-forward enough to blend in with the glitterati. However, the only positive aspects of this I see are, of course, the flattery factor (maybe if I show her how much I love her designs, she'll float me some free samples?), and the quirky convenience of a walking comparison. (Oh, I've heard of this designer before but I can't for the life of me remember what her last collection looked like?)

But my opinion, overall, is that this just looks tacky and generally embarrassing. Especially for those stars who conspicuously change outfits between shows just to make sure they are showing up in a particular designer's pieces.

However, maybe a good middle-of-the-road solution would be to wear several pieces, all from different designers, and attend all of their shows the same day? I'm not sure how well that would work schedule-wise, but it would save you alot of wardrobe changes!

Go ahead and sound off your opinion in the comments. I want to hear different spins on this and other possible solutions to not look completely dumb when attempting this extreme act of flattery.

PS: Temporary change to the layout. New colors, etc. It's only until I get the time to create some new graphics and other fun stuff, but I did notice that the bright colors of the other layout were hard to see on some people's screens, so if you have any suggestions regarding viewability, let me know.

Looking forward to Spring?

Okay, everyone, thanks for being patient with me, but I'm finally going to be back doing regular posts, especially now that my favorite season is finally here!

That's right, I absolutely LOVE fall fashion. But after seeing all of these great Spring runway shows, many of us fall-lovers now have a bit of spring fever. But, don't dispair. You can still go out and buy that cute spring dress AND not have to stuff it in the back of your closet until the warmer weather hits.

How? Simple. Just add a few key fall staples, such as an edgy, cropped jacket, tights (you should probably go with wool or something warm if you're not blessed with 60-70 degree winters), and substantial heels (think thick pumps or chunky wood platforms, not sandals) and you have a fresh, insta-chic fall ensemble.

Confused? Take a look at these examples:

Take a cute, printed sundress like this one from Karen Zambos Vintage Couture.

Karen Zambos Vintage Couture Short Satin Dress, $430, shopbop

Add an edgy, cropped leather jacket, tights (keep 'em neutral), and substantial Marc by Marc Jacobs pumps.

adampluseve Cropped Leather Peacoat, $795, shopbop

Marc by Marc Jacobs Shoes Suede Cap Toe Mary Jane Pump, $450, shopbop

Add some color to all of these grays and blacks with a statement tote in radiant red.

Foley + Corinna Handbags Glazed Jet Setter Jr Tote, $490, shopbop

Or, take this more cost-effective example, with the color emphasis on this pretty emerald green dress from Forever 21.

Sleeveless Satin Dress, $22.80, Forever 21

Add a white jacket with a cropped, swingy shape to take this dress from day to night.

Lux Audrey Jacket, $140, Urban Outfitters

Neutral tights and these precious white pumps pull this outfit together, along with a neutral patchwork bag.

Swear Nancy Heel, $60, Urban Outfitters

Parquet Buckle Bag, $58, Urban Outfitters

Note: both of these outfits would work with a pair of gray wool tights. Or, for a more monochromatic effect, pair #2 with white opaque tights.

With each outfit, I tried to add that pop of color that wakes you up on a dreary fall day, and I think that these are not only fashionable, but easy to wear. And when spring finally comes along, all you have to do is shed the tights and jacket and hit the town!

Blog Roundup: I seem to always be bored on Sundays

I've noticed that the last couple of these that I've done have fallen on weekends, so it would be a safe bet for you all to expect this from me every Sunday, if not a bit earlier. But anyways, without further ado, here are some more great posts for you guys to check out! Enjoy!

First up, Second City Style reports on changes in bridal trends, which caught my eye since I, like everyone, seem to have wedding fever even though I'm not getting married for a few years yet. (my fiance and I are both poor college students, I don't even have an official engagement ring yet!)

Yet another from Second City Style, a feature on FAME 2007, Fashion and Media Extravaganza, which took place at the Illinois Institue of Art-Chicago, and more specifically the show put on by students in fashion design.

Since I haven't done a designer spotlight in a while, I share this one with you from Sassybella, featuring Soaked in Luxury.

An interesting series for you to check out, StyleBites is teaching all of you wannabe's how to break into the modeling world. You can read part one and part two now, part three will be available Wednesday.

Yet another post on a student show, J'Adore Couture offers commentary on the latest and greatest new designers graduating from Academy of Art University, including pictures of the designs that they presented on the runway.

Trend Alert: Colored Denim

It seems that the newest SS07 trend is actually a combination of the 70's/80's throwback and the need to brighten up our lives-- and our wardrobes-- as the weather turns warm once again.

The concept is simple, take the acid-wash of the 80's to the next level by adding bright color and a modern shape, be it skinny, or the more 70's-inspired high waist and wide leg.


This piece by Grey Ant is a more practical way to wear the latter style, with a happy medium in both the waist and leg. They are still classified under "high-waisted," but it's a manageable one, rather the extremes that we've been seeing with celebs. The leg, though flared and 70's-esque, is not too wide as to be overwhelming, once again, as we've seen alot of the fashion-forward stars doing lately. And, of course, they offer the refreshing wash of color that marks this trend.

Grey Ant Essentials Jean in Blue, $209 [yikes!], Azalea Online

If pastels are your thing, Urban Outfitters offers a few color options for you. These are also great if you want color, but not an overwhelming amount.

Lux Pastel Skinny Jean, $68, Urban Outfitters, Available in Blue, Pink and Lilac (shown)

Now, my first question when I noticed the prevalence of colored denim in stores was "how on earth would you wear something like that?" Well, I've finally come up with not one, but two, answers to that question.

The first, and more obvious, is best illustrated by a celeb who somehow seems to hit these crazy denim trends in just the right way, Victoria Beckham. The key to this look is the fact that the denim takes center stage, and everything else is neutral (black is the easiest way to go, but you can play around with the colors a little if you want).
However, there is one problem with this look for those of us who don't necessarily want to accentuate our bottom half but still preserve our trendiness (Because, let's face it, not all of us can pull off the looks that Victoria Beckham can). If this is the case, pick a top and accessories that compliment the color of your pants while not competing with them. Here's an example.

Free People Embellished Cami, $36, Urban Outfitters

Lux Technicolor Skinny Jean, $68, Urban Outfitters

As you can see, the olive and blue colors in the cami offer a break between the bright yellow pants and the more greeny-yellow in the top, while still allowing the colors to coordinate well. You can pair this look with flats in a muted neutral tone, a plain bag, and any kind of nature-inspired jewelry (Once again, it can be quite fun to play around with the different color combos).

I'm completely open to any other ideas for wearing this trend, but as far as I'm concerned, the above two are not only idiot-proof, but versatile. Now, if only the skies would clear up and let that sun out, I might actually get in the mood to try this trend.

Applied Style: The Most Wearable Looks for Spring '07 - Part 3

For the last post in my series, I've decided to bring out the big guns: a multi-purpose outfit that happens to be one of my favorites for this season. It combines a feminine, yet casual look with two major trends: big prints and colorblock. Think it can't be done? Just look:

First, we're going to start off with this tube top from Urban Outfitters.

Lux Kyoto Tube Top, $28, Urban Outfitters

The first time I saw this top, I fell in love with the print. And then I fell in love with the price. UO seems to never disappoint me. Trendy, not pricey. I love it.

Moving on to the pants. I recommend a pair of capris that are very fitted on the leg, with no embellishments. There are many options, including denim and twill, just make sure they are some type of gray hue. Some cropped opaque tights in a semi-thick material will also work.

Now for the final touch: colorblock accessories. Pretty much anything goes in the bag department, as long as it's white with black accents. It can also be plain white as long as there are no major embellishments, such as this leather tote by Gryson.

Gryson Leather Tote, $995, Bergdorf Goodman

Of course, you're going to need some heels to top it all off, especially if you have short legs, because the capris can do funny things to them if you wear flats. These are my favorites:

Marc by Marc Jacobs Leather Peep Toe Pumps, $360, Shopbop

Also, this particular outfit is very versatile. You can pair it with a nice dark blazer if you aren't in an arm-and-shoulder-bearing climate, as well as with a pair of skinny jeans instead of the capris, using all the same principles, of course.

So what did you guys think about this series? Would you like to see more like it? Let me know!

Applied Style: The Most Wearable Looks for Spring '07 - Part 2

The look I'm going to show you today is great because it's so versatile. It's not casual, but it's not too stuffy-looking to, say, go out with your friends after a big black-tie event.

The key to making a great evening outfit is a strong focal point. The focal point to this outfit is an amazing dress by little-known label Gina Michele. The materials are classic, and the structure is very mod. And with its soft metallic sheen, you can't miss!

Prince Dress by Gina Michele, $150, Unsung Designers

There are a wide variety of shoe choices for this outfit as well. My favorites, however, are edgy, strappy heels, like these from Cesare Paciotti.

Cesare Paciotti, cod. 931510, 212-452-1222 to order (USA only)

To give it a more dressed-down feel, basic gray or black wedges, like these by Cynthia Vincent.

Image from shopbop.com, item no longer available.

Care for a more rock-and-roll look? Simple with this dress as well. Simply add opaque leggings or skinny jeans with some basic ballet flats, like these from Urban Outfitters.

Mod Mary Jane Ballets, $38, Urban Outfitters

As for a bag, a simple, streamlined clutch is your best bet. Just remember: no patent or metallic, you don't want it to compete with your already fabulous dress.

Applied Style: The Most Wearable Looks for Spring '07 - Part 1

Alright, kiddies. Time for me to embark on my first blog series! yay! Basically, I'm going to offer you some options for cute outfits ranging from casual to evening by incorporating all of the lastest design trends. And, better yet, I'm going to show you where to get them as well.

First up, a very casual look that can easily translate to summer as well. It consists of a flowy top, tuxedo shorts, and a casual, yet stylish sandal.

Harkham Liquid Style Jersey Top, $200, Azalea Online

Lux Cuffed Short, $20, Urban Outfitters

Giuseppe Zanotti Sandals, style E7105, $500, Zappos

This super-casual look is hard not to love, with a cute and comfortable empire-waist top, simple shorts, and sandals with an updated gladiator look, with jewel details on the straps.

Total price: $720
(pretty reasonable)

And you can even trade the shorts for some dark denim if you want to dress the look up a little more (or if the weather isn't very nice).

Next time: an eye-popping evening look. Stay tuned!