Look At Me NOW [D&G Fall 2011]

D&G's fall 2011 menswear collection is all about fun. Graphic T-shirts, bright colored pants and loads of fur rounded out the school boy motif for a look that is absolutely too cool for school. 

Up HIGH, Down LOW [LANVIN]

Lanvin is known for their ballet flats. Together with brands like Tory Burch and Chanel, Lanvin helped put these shoes back on the map. The trend has taken off with variations in practically every variation. Check out this leather pair with crystal embellishments. Dress them up or down for daytime lunch dates or a few hours in the office. For an evening look try  this shoe as a high heeled pump. Enjoy!

source: Lanvin.com

LIVE from LAS VEGAS! [Balmain Spring 2012]

For the spring 2012 collection, Olivier Rousteing takes the house of Balmain from the City of Lights to another well lit city: Las Vegas. On the way, he stops over in Spain or maybe Texas to take in a bull fight. And it seems that Elvis provided the soundtrack for this journey. The end product is a masterfully crafted collection of tailored and embellished minidresses, leather brocade suits, and hot pants. Balmain's signature dresses were updated with boleros, and military shirts featured embellished collars, pockets and plackets. But Rousteing doesn't just stick to house favorites; he adds new ideas to the Balmain vernacular with full maxi skirts in soft blue denim and even leather. Thankfully, it looks like the days of hole-ridden, safety pinned T-shirts with $1000 price tags are over. Rousteing maintains the brand's integrity keeping all of the flash and ditching all the trash. Enjoy.

These BOOTS Were Made For Walking! [Alexander McQueen]

I have been obsessing about these boots all season. I don't even know where to begin. The overall shape is so classic, but the truth is in the details! The mixed textures of the leather and the front zip upgrade this standard boot perfectly. And the best part is that they're on sale!!!

Sugar & Spice [Valentino Pre-Fall 2011]

For Valentino's pre-fall collection, design duo Pier Paolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri worked stretch wools and lace into pretty pleats and voluminous ruffles for an overall soft and feminine look. The palette was largely neutral, save a few crimson concoctions and a leopard trench. The shoes too, were delicate; instead of ridiculous platforms, Piccioli and Chiuri opted for a strappy sandal with just enough interest so as not to be overlooked. However, the much appreciated edge came courtesy of a supple leather mini skirt and plush fur coat. One of the best moments is when those two skins were combined for a mix-media chevron coat. Despite the lady like overtones, there was a strong sense of austerity. You can see it in the pulled back hair and pale make up, or in the near complete absence of prints. That restraint was something unexpected, fresh and paradoxically youthful. Paradoxes seem to be Piccioli and Chiuri's specialty. Enjoy!

Lady in RED [Nicki Minaj @ 2011 AMA in Oscar de la Renta + Alexander McQueen]

Who would have thought that Nicki Minaj would ever wear a dress by Oscar de la Renta and that it would actually look good?! At the 2011 American Music Awards, Nicki hit the red carpet wearing a black and green gown from de la Renta's spring 2012 collection. She finished the look with a sick pair of platform wedges from the Alexander McQueen fall 2011 runway. I am pleasantly surprised by how well this look works for Nicki. It's much more sophisticated, but it still has an edgy street appeal. Her hair and make-up is a different story? I don't think I'll ever get over her colorful wigs and geisha make-up, but Nicki gets an A+ from the neck down.

Shorty Wanna Ride? [Diesel Black Gold]

The winter temperatures are fast approaching, so it's time to take out some heavier artillery, but not quite time for the biggest guns in your closet. Try this suede biker jacket. It will keep you warm enough for these temperatures and the slim fit creates a sleek silhouette. My one qualm is the faux fur collar. With a two thousand dollar price tag, I think shoppers would appreciate some authentic fibers. But besides that, it's perfect. Enjoy!

Can I WALK With You? [Alexander McQueen]

Rarely am I rendered speechless, but often, when I am, McQueen is the culprit. Only Sarah Burton could transform lowly muslin into something incredibly dramatic and luxurious; granted, she did so by adorning it with impeccable jeweling and intense metal plating on the most supple of leathers. Mixing hard and soft, Burton creates a shoe that is equal parts romantic and dominating. At 7 inches high and just under $5,000 it's a standout for the fall season.

Diamond in the Rough [Alexander Wang Fall 2011]

Fur and sheer dominated Alexander Wang's fall 2011 runway show. There were also a fair amount of leather and silk. The look was Wang's signature downtown cool, but with a luxurious edge. Everything from shoes to sunglasses were swathed in plush fur; there were even full fur blazers. Mixed media was also a big theme, with wool and nylon hybrids. Wang even made pieces that transitioned seamlessly from one material to another. Glossy, metallic pumps and sandals completed this extravagant look perfectly.

TOP of the CLASS [The ROW]

Upgrade your Jan-Sport and head to campus with this ultra luxurious alligator backpack from Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen's line, The Row. This exotic skin hardly needs any embellishment and is finished tastefully with minimal brass hardware. But good luck maintaining your 4.0 GPA because you probably won't be able to afford your books; at $34,000 this backpack will set you back more than a semester's tuition! 

Lady in RED [Kerry Washington x Zuhair Murad x Emmys 2011]

Kerry Washington scores again with this beaded gown by Zuhair Murad at this years Emmy Awards. In a sea of red gowns on a red carpet, Kerry managed to stand out with minimal jewelry, easy, understated hair and a bold red lip. Red is truly your color, Kerry.

JuneTV [June Ambrose x VH1]

Clips like the one above are about to take over the world. Rumors have been circling for over a year, but last month VH1 finally announced that "style icon" June Ambrose would be joining their reality roster with a new show, tentatively titled "The June Ambrose Project." Scheduled for an early 2012 launch, the show will document June and her tireless team of assistants as they work with some of music's and movie's biggest starts. It's sure to be a hoot, so make sure you tune in!

source: VH1

BLACK SWAN [Alexander McQueen]

Silk chiffon, intense embroidery and plumage are always a recipe for a major McQueen moment. This halter gown from the pre-fall collection is simply exquisite. The detailing at the neck line and waist is perfect and the feathered "pelmet" takes this look over the top. Pair with simple jeweled sandals, minimal jewelry and pulled back hair. A fresh face with the white and a smokey eye with navy complete the look.   

American Gigolo in Milan [DSQUARED2 Menswear Spring/Summer 2011]

Perfect tailoring and classic roots bred a seductive and confident collection for DSQUARED2's SS menswear collection. With a distinctly European, specifically Italian, feel, Dean and Dan Caten craft a look for every man from the international man of mystery to a college kid on spring break. And as always, the styling is nothing short of stellar. 

LBD [Stella McCartney]

Recapture your youth with this whimsical lbd from Stella McCartney's fall 2011 collection. Have some fun with the polka-dotted sheer paneled dress, but accessorize carefully and sparingly to avoid looking like a tramp. The look is about balancing something playful with something sexy, so don't lean to far in either direction. And don't worry about your underwear showing; there's a nude sheath in the right places to conceal your unmentionables.

The BEAT Goes ON [Balmain Resort 2012]

Olivier Rousteing is turning out to be a great choice as the new creative director at Balmain. For the labels first resort collection, Rousteing delivers  the very best in tailored blazers, skintight denim and the house's now infamous beaded mini dresses. It is an updated return to the formula that put the high-priced brand on the backs of virtually every A-list celebrity. This season, the Balmain girl goes tribal with native american prints and gold fringe. But what's even better this time around is that I actually like the shoes.  Head to toe, Rousteing's got it covered.

A WORD from the EDITOR [Back to Cool: La Mala Educación]

Summer is over. The grind resumes. Pack away all those summer pieces. Pile on the layers, scarves, hats. Change your attitude. Fill your calendar with more business meetings, fewer social events. Start with NY Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. 

This season is a paradoxical return to a polished, buttoned up aesthetic with an emphasis on edgy, unconventional details. Exclusivity and originality reign with even more prominence than previous seasons. The 70's are back, the 80's are  still here.

Back to Cool is a reminder to look through your history books; do some research. As Lady GaGa advises in her V Magazine column, use your "library card." And don't only look to the past; go into the "classrooms" and see what the "kids" are doing/wearing/saying today. In essence, learn the rules,  then break them. 

Be diligent with your studies. Stay focused! Set your goals and execute them. You'll be happy when your report card reads straight A's.

backpack by Alexander Wang

source: STYLE.COM

FATHER of the BRIDE [Umit Benan]

Since dad is likely footing the bill for these elaborate wedding events, it's only fitting that he be [nearly] as well fitted as the bride, especially if he's giving her away. Something with very classic bones and a modern fit works best; think traditional, but not dated. Look to designers like Tom Ford and Umit Benan for inspiration. Benan's eponymous brand specializes in updated classics, and the designer recently took the helm at Trussardi 1911. Check out a few looks from his Fall 2011 presentation.

La Luna de Miel [Jumby Bay Island]

MOTHER of the BRIDE [VALENTINO]

As much as we think the wedding is all about the bride, in reality, it is about the entire family; a point the mother of the bride will make, no doubt. With that in mind here are some options for the slightly more mature family member, who wants to stand out, but not upstage the bride. Valentino has been working with a very feminine aesthetic that naturally leans towards matronly and traditional. Normally, matronly is not a compliment, but it has found it's appropriate audience in the bride's mother. On these shoes, the heels are not too high, and the designs are not too youthful, but there is just the right amount of drama to make mom feel comfortable to gloat for just a moment on what a beautiful bride she has raised. Check out the choices below.

The Rehearsal Dinner

As the impending nuptials approach, it is time for the rehearsal dinner. The bride has remained devoted to her white/neutral palette in shameless reference to her title as fiancée. For dinner, she pairs a grecian style satin gown with byzantine jewelry, a snake skin clutch and crystal heeled sandals. Anticipation builds as we await the wedding day ensemble, but our appetites are sated for now...

The Rehearsal Dinner by CazAntonio featuring crystal heels

LOVE is Like the SEA [Elie Saab Fall 2011 Couture]

Embellished gowns and cocktail dress were the look at Elie Saab's couture showing for the fall 2011 season. It's hardly a new look for the seasoned designer, but that is not to say that the collection wasn't fresh. A lightness permeated his dresses, with tons of sheer fabrics and a largely pale color palette; the wind machine made it's contribution as well. There were some obvious wedding worthy pieces for both bridesmaids and brides, though I'm not particularly fond of his wedding dress closer; it's always the same  big overdone princess dress with elaborate vail. In that vein, Saab often comes under fire from critics who cite his work as predictable and static; and while his garments lack the "diversity" you'd find at Marc Jacobs or Louis Vuitton, that certainly does not lower his stock. Saab knows his customer well and he caters to her tirelessly, creating romantic, feminine dresses that will ultimately stand the tests of time. 

You Had Me @ Hello [Alexander McQueen]

Alexander McQueen gives your feet a lesson in whimsy with these cascading resin leaf wedges. Aside from being just plain beautiful, the structural and architectural influences in the design are remarkable. These wedges are the perfect complement for a whimsical wedding look.

 

The Bridal Shower

For her bridal shower look, our bride sticks to a traditional motif, with a strapless tiered organza dress, vintage diamond drop earrings and lace pumps. A chunky bracelet and elaborate clutch round out this look. Make up should be warm, but still light and hair pulled back into a high, loosely-curled ponytail. 

The Bridal Shower by CazAntonio featuring satin pumps

Sheer Genius [Givenchy Fall 2011 Couture]

Givenchy has done it again! Creative director Riccardo Tisci has delivered yet another phenomenal couture collection. With his unwaveringly singular vision, Tisci crafts whimsical, modern gowns using virtually every embellishment available. This season instead of elaborate futuristic headpieces, Tisci accessorizes his masterpieces with decadent clutches. Practicality aside, the clutches are genius. With a nearly exclusively white palette, it is an easy transition to bridal wear, but only the most daring of brides could manage a shameless walk down the aisle in one of these dresses.

You Must Not Know 'Bout Me [Beyoncé's Best Thing I Never Had]

Beyoncé moves on to greener pastures in the new clip for her latest single, Best Thing I Never Had. In the Diane Martel directed video, a scantily clad, pre-wedding Beyoncé reminisces on her failed high school relationship to find that it was the best decision she ever made. Over all the video is pretty underwhelming, but Beyoncé looks absolutely stunning (except for her Princess Laia coif).

Walk the Aisle [Brian Atwood]

Walk down the aisle in these limited edition shoes from Brian Atwood for a truly glamourous wedding experience. The crystal encrusted and flower adorned heel gives this otherwise classic shoe all the drama a bride craves on her special day. It's best to pair with a shorter wedding dress; no use hiding such a dramatic shoe under a gown.

Alice In Wonderland [The ENGAGEMENT Party]

Bride and Prejudice is the story of an outlandishly fashionable girl/woman as she navigates the treacherous road to betrothal. Naturally, she is getting married in June (though, likely not at The Plaza), and she is a socialite so there are many more events, than just the wedding day. First up is the engagement party. Set the scene: a lavish [family] estate in upstate NY or perhaps Long Island with immaculate lawns, perfectly pruned rose bushes, a grande fountain, a few albino peacocks roaming around and a sprawling chandelier lit tent. The only beverage options are champagne and water. What does the bride-to-be wear? Vintage couture, of course. She must set the tone for the half dozen or so events leading up to the wedding, and everyone will be dying to know what type of bride she will be. This bride is rooted in tradition, but remarkably fresh and certainly not afraid of the unconventional, so the natural choice for today's ensemble is a dangerously short couture lace frock, a pair of dazzling diamond stud earrings, a chunky, eye-popping platform pump to avoid sinking heels in the dirt (it is a garden party after all), and small sleek clutch. She completes the look with a high ponytail combed into a single large, long drop curl and soft/bright-eyed minimal make-up.

COUNTDOWN [Beyoncé's 4 Album Review]

Beyoncé's new album, 4 is slated for release on Tuesday, June 28th, but [un]fortunately the full album leaked last week. Normally, I'm opposed to listening to leaked albums; they're often not official, missing tracks, unmastered and at the core it's a violation of the artist's work. That being said, I couldn't resist, and the album was literally put in my lap, so I listened (I had already pre-ordered it on iTunes, so my conscience is clear). I've been listening to the album on repeat since then. It is not at all what I was expecting, but it is absolutely a pleasant surprise. After reading all the reports from producers that the album was party music focused and taking hints from the lead single, "Run the World (Girls)", I was ready for an album much like B'day, unrelentless, impatient and aggressive. With a few exceptional exceptions, the album has a much different, more mature tone, with more mid-tempos than club bangers. All the strength is there, but it's much more subdued and controlled; instead of an explosion, it's more of a seek and destroy missile. With a relatively slim track listing of just 12 songs, 4 is noticeably shorter than her last album, and thus virtually free of the dreaded "filler" music. There is, however, lots of experimentation, and genre blurring. The standard "two verse and a bridge" formula wildly prevalent in R&B music is hardly employed here. Standout tracks include "Party" (featuring Kanye West and André 3000), the only cameos on the whole album, "I Care", "Start Over", and my personal favorite "Countdown" (I don't know how her team passed this up for the lead single slot). On a bad note (pun intended), I can do without the vintage throwback track "Love on Top"; it sounds like a Dreamgirls throw away. Overall, the songs of the album demonstrate Beyoncé's versatility. She literally outdid herself with this project. I'm sure most of the links to the leaked album are disabled so make sure you cop 4 on 6/28 and don't forget to wish me happy birthday. Now, all hail the Queen!

On Bended Knee [Tiffany & Co.]

I don't know why girls get to have all the fun when it comes to engagements. Fuck that! When I get married, I want a blinged out wedding band and an engagement ring too. In fact I want this three stone Lucida ring from Tiffany & Co; I picked it out using their iPhone app. It has enough diamonds to put a Beverly Hills housewife to shame, but the square cut stones make for a more masculine silhouette. On second thought - fuck the marriage altogether, and just give me the jewelry; I'm married to the Game. 

source: Tiffany & Co.

Wonder Woman [Lanvin Spring 2011]

The warm weather is here (right?), so break out those easy summer dresses. If your closet is wanting, head to Lanvin for the very best in light, flowy skirts and dresses. Alber Elbaz constructs an ultra soft and mostly minimal collection that's surprisingly practical for hot summer days, especially the flat sandals. The collection is perfect for any variety of tropical getaways. Did someone say honeymoon?

You Had Me @ Hello [Valentino]

Fall in love with these feminine lace shoes from the house of Valentino. Creative directors Pier Paolo Picioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri have been working the lace motif for the last few seasons to mostly positive reviews, but this platform pump is sure to quiet any remaining resistance to the ultra-feminine trend at Valentino. Brides-to-be, ladies-who-lunch and party girls around the world would agree!

Game of THRONES [Alexander McQueen Fall 2011]

Sarah Burton continues her immaculate rule over the house of McQueen. Fall's collection was aptly titled "The Ice Queen and her court," and at McQueen, monarchs rule graciously for the most part. With feathered shoulders, soft tweeds, and plush furs, the collection was truly fit for a queen, and, I expect, priced for one as well. Overall, McQueen's or Burton's kingdom is experiencing a time of peace and reserved prosperity; the queen's court seems largely serene in all those white feathers. But at a moment's notice, they are prepared for war with elaborate harnesses, sky-high, thigh-high boots and black leather gloves. No need to fret; this queen favors peace, and Burton ended the show with a series of spectacular gowns covered in broken china mosaics, tons of plumage and yards and yards of silk organza. Long live this Queen!

Softer Than A Mother, Boy I Know You Wanna Touch [Ralph Lauren]

Upgrade your duffle game with this alligator weekend bag by Ralph Lauren Purple Label. Words can't describe so I'll just direct you to the price tag. Brace yourself!

 

Suit Up [Gucci]

You literally cannot go wrong with this expertly tailored wool jacket by Gucci. It's somewhat of a splurge, but such a timeless and versatile piece is worth the investment. 

source: yoox.com

Love You Long Time [Shipley & Halmos Spring 2011]

Shipley & Halmos cleverly update classic men's wardrobe staples with a healthy dose of fun. It's certainly not a new concept, but it continues to be a recipe for commercial success. And people think fashion isn't practical.

American Idol [Beyoncé Run the World (Girls)]

We interrupt our regularly scheduled program with the release of Beyoncé's highly anticipated new video for "Run the World (Girls)," the first release from her fourth studio album, aptly titled "4" which is set for release on Tuesday, June 28th (aka my birthday). The Francis Lawrence (Cry Me A River, Bad Romance) directed clip has Beyoncé and a horde of women in a post-apocalyptic desert in a one-sided dance off with male soldiers. As with most of her videos, the fashion is insane. Her styling team literally ravaged Paris Fashion Week with pieces by Peter Dundas for Emilio Pucci, Givenchy Couture by Riccardo Tisci, Norma Kamali, Alexander McQueen, Jean Paul Gaultier and Gareth Pugh! Get into the vid!

We now return to our regularly scheduled programming.

LOUB IT UP [Christian Louboutin]

Christian Louboutin continues his foray into men's fashion with some dangerously dope sneakers. He updates his classic Louis sneaker with Swarovksi crystals, patent leather, and some insane studding. Anyone of these is a great summer stunt shoe, even if summer doesn't seem to be on its way.