Current News
Current News is all about giving a partially subjective view of where fashion is in modern times in respect to recent events.
When this blogger worked at a so-called country version of Dillard's, Levi's was offered in bulk, yet there were few who bought the classic pairs of denim in favor of rough and rowdy Western pairs. Do remember this is Arkansas after all? Levi's is a Western brand anyway thinking back to the time when German immigrant Levi Strauss developed the infamous material of denim during the Gold Rush in San Francisco where the headquarters are still standing today. The brand has stayed consistently authentic to their original intentions of delivering a Western Americana influence on clothing with heavy regards to their trademark obviously being the indigo-beloved staple.
The brand has teamed with other clothing labels such as the conceptual Vetements and more recently the simplified and classic Wardrobe.NYC. A launch party was celebrated a week and a half ago for the American brands, and celebrities arrived to show their support. Gigi Hadid nodded to the 90s heroin chic in a two-piece oversized denim shirt with a half-do hairstyle. Kate Moss approved! More models worked the arena including Soo Joo Park and David Alexander Flinn. Hero of fashion writing even attended being the Leandra Medine, creator of the Man Repeller.
It could not be said how many times those pretentious "Levi's" t-shirts with white backgrounds and red letters walk through city streets. An impactful American empire was built as a kingdom of denim. Levi's has become an instinctual thought when thought about denim for suburban families, urban go-getters, and rugged farmers. Of not only being an American success, Levi's has reached international acclaim and continues to be annoying popular in painting the world blue.
Down on the West Coast (July 31, 2019)
Shout-out has to be sent to the Business of Fashion for implanting this idea but couldn't read it because of having to pay membership fees. What a tragedy for this millennial's psyche! The idea is of highlighting the profilic and widely-worn brand of Levi's in analyzing their success. How do they make everyone from extraordinary fashion lovers to strait-laced business men to baseball playing high school students crave their products? The borderline is noticing their product selection and discovering the magic within their marketing. And no, the merchandise is not all dad jeans.
Levi's has kept relevance with current trends occurring in pop culture as well. If this show hasn't been highlighted enough throughout our retro-obsessed environment, Levi's released a temporary collaboration with Stranger Things showcasing pieces inspired by the cult show. The limited line was honestly assumed to be a flop due to its entirety aiming for the masses, yet dumbfounded in amazement is a more accurate expression. Plenty of items are sold out, and the evidence due to '80s nostalgic style is abundant. The popular ones include a trucker-style ball cap featuring a key year for the show '1985,' an "Eleven" sweatshirt dedicated to a fan favorite, a bold, tribal shirt reminiscing the brand Kenzo, and pair of pleated jeans the character Eleven wore which deserve the all-time favorite award.
Aforementioned was Levi's versatility in reaching to so many different markets. Sports are not a major concern on this site, yet sports stars are mega-billionaires for some reason. Levi's developed collections with key sports leagues being the NFL, MLB, and the NBA to suit all sorts of crazed fans desiring their owns sports regalia. Automatic thoughts travel to dread with looking at the merchandise but is found to be another welcome surprise. Bright and colored polos, trucker jackets, and popping hoodies! Are these pieces radiating chic forcing everyone to snatch their waists? No, but they'll sell which is the main goal of a business especially a major five-and-a-half billion dollar one. To mention what is marketed on a demographic standpoint, Levi's is regarded as family-friendly. It isn't like one brand widely known selling to young women wanting to be a bad bitch and go be stupid at the club. Levi's is designed to be worn for men, women, and children. Clothing is appropriate for both teeny-boppers as well as high retirement-rollers. Men do have more diversity in sizing with waist sizes starting at 25" and ending at 60" while women's start at 23" and ending at 34".
Pants wanted but she don't have the coin
Completely stereotypical but sells
the cool people celebrating the launch along with an accompanying ad carrying an outfit on my now bucket list
Even at the beginning of every show, the viewer is entreated to high heels clacking and the verbs, "Live, Work, Pose!" The intro already opens up to the world of dressed-up glamour filled with late 80s nostalgia which many young girls seem to admire for aesthetics. The show clothes are featured in events known as balls where houses battle for glory in categories like high fashion runway, good face, and all realness. The first one drama was ensued with a house stealing 17th century garb to a Renaissance-themed ball. Houses are filled with performers unwelcome by society and their families because of their sexualities and genders. The houses each have their own house mother. The two main ones featured in the show are Elektra and Blanca who are both trans women. Elektra is obviously stylish, elegant, and offers grandeur. She gives a "Praying Mantis" Debra Shaw impression, who was a famous 90s supermodel with beautiful skin. Notable looks include a Derby-sized black hat with black blazer along with her big reveal in a billowing white cape and plunging black gown after the surgery which turned her genetically into a woman. Elektra is appreciated, and the shade is enlightening. Yet, I favor Blanca because of her style being so quintessentially 80s, Gianni Versace chic. Jewel tones and shoulder pads, galore! Then, the gold hoops are a nice signature complimenting her sass. The Season 2 trailer also gives a nod to the time in fuzzy, black-and-white editing transporting fans to how life was.
and POSE (June 25, 2019)
Ready to mention one of the most enthralling and real TV shows out there with it being the show filled with all types of sashay. Pose is about the journey of different trans women and gay people striving for greatness in New York City amidst of the struggles due to discrimination and the AIDS crisis of the 80s and 90s. The discrimination is directly referred to race and trans people. One scene which automatically applies is when a main character, Blanca, who is one of the transsexual women attempts to celebrate a dance victory at one of the established gay bars. She is forced out because of her not being appropriate due to being transgender/transsexual along with being black. It was disturbing in how the owner classified his clientele as being under 35, gay, and white. This honestly being what is currently the requirements for Grindr. Anyways, in watching the show admiration applies to the people who burned barriers for everyone in the gay community, and this is especially applicable to how they handled the AIDS crisis which unearthed lots of fear with several people's deaths. The show gives notice to everyone who is trans which is needed because of the disrespect applied to them such as the recent shooting of Muhlaysia Booker in Dallas. It tells about what needs to happen for there to be a better world plus on a lighter subject gives lots of fashion.
giving us opulence
Thy 2 Queens
To many, Pose appears as another gay show, but it holds deep significance to current situations and history. The main characters partook in a style of dancing known as "voguing." If confusion is present, think of Madonna when Madonna was good with "Vogue." It is a type of exaggerated dance style that started in the 60s and came out in Harlem with the black community. In observing the moves, much of modern-day drag comes from "voguing" in kings and queens embracing their fabulous selves. With this distinction, Pose can be regarded as historical fiction but should not be treated with mold and dust. It tells of strife like the sense in finding your true family with sometimes your own not being supportive. Along with oozing pizazz in style, what's not to love?!
A New Era (June 11, 2019)
Where Lana Del Rey is located for the Vogue Italia shoot, a definite style starts based on the setting itself. For the shoot, the area translates as a 1970s hotel room with Del Rey waiting for dope. The idea may not register as being a high-quality fashion editorial, yet Vogue Italia is anything but typical. A lot of the editorials from the esteemed fashion magazine appear as if from a low-budget music video from starving artist musicians. The lighting was dark, and the featured furniture was clearly outdated in its olden, golden hue. Grainy photos aid in the vintage style being it is the photographer Steven Klein's style. Del Rey has often nodded towards the early 1960s in her style such as with the negligees and babydoll dresses, yet in this scenario the 70s are more prominent with the blue eye shadow and Studio 54 golden lame. Del Rey has revamped her style for the time period, but the course occurs for all successful musicians. Even in the tagline, "I'm writing my future," she alludes to an exciting change for her life. For my own personal view, the case is my teenage moments with her becoming older alongside myself forcing me to realize how much time has passed. Absolute certainty of what has happened should come with her book and the album arriving sometime (hopefully) this year. Lana, we are ready, so please make us cry!
Lana's signature look is defined by a dreamy vintage air along with combining elements of white trash to make an electrifying, Americana look people resonate but is so idealistic her image is alluring. Difference with how 2019 Lana is compared to her previous counterparts is the simple fact of her growing up. Throughout the editorial, a sinister style comes alive in femme fetale form. In the "Born to Die" era, Del Rey proposed this colorful image accessorized by red hair and a playfulness inspired by the character Lolita. The associations with youth and naivete are gone especially considering where Del Rey is positioned in the music industry from working almost 10 years with her alias aside from Elizabeth Grant. The editorial in Vogue Italia depicts her in a sophisticated manner which does not go along with her previous sugar baby lifestyle. Now it appears she is the sugar mama instead.
All I have to say to my gangster Nancy Sinatra is when is the album going to be released. She is most likely irritated about the many leaks over the years of her songs, but the restraint for her fans including yours truly has reached a formidable high. There may be hope anyway due to the recent cover story of the beloved sad songstress for Vogue Italia June 2019. She even earned three different covers with black and embellished Moschino, a Marilyn mood in Miu Miu, and Princess Leia in Fendi. Attention is drawn towards the artist's $1 book of poetry called "Violet Bend Backwards Over The Grass." This making sense considering her undisputed talent for pouring her soul in intelligent yet heartfelt prose through lyrics. This is not the only significant change for the singer but has manifested in her own personal look as well.
Summer Camp (May 10, 2019)
REAL MEN
To explain the theme from a historical perspective and how it relates to fashion, the start of it can be described as personal because of the "camp" style based on a tendency for men to go more feminine. This is an obvious nod to the gay culture. Even traveling back to the 1700s with King Louis XIV, he showed off his legs in a delicate but inviting way comparable to ladies of the night. Camp style cannot be mentioned without including the gay Irish icon Oscar Wilde who epitomized the dandy style with a girlish touch in his posing and extravagance piercing through gritty, black-and-white imagery. "Camp" also includes men who performed as drag queens during the 1800s imitating the Victorian look with lots of makeup. A great, contemporary example of this portrayal is the movie The Danish Girl with Eddie Redmayne acting as one of the first transgender women Lili Edbe. Surprisingly there are quite a good amount of photos giving evidence to cross-dressing. The images show men in corsets looking like showgirls and classically posing portrait-style in hoop skirts.
The theme could possibly be used to note the advancement for how mens' fashion has evolved over the past few years in this decade. Vivid memories come racing back to constantly being bored for what men's clothes offered in its' boring displays of prep. Difficulty is carried with this statement because of the over-abundance of this brand, but Alessandro Michele for Gucci has significantly affected the clothing market for men. I would not go the level of remarking how he introduced items but actually brought back a style from yore of feminine clothes for men enlisting ruffled blouses, softer fabrics, and (gasp) skirts; even though, skirts ergonomically are more logical for men than women. Think back, if possible, a few years ago when Marc Jacobs arrived to the Met Gala in a pink polo dress coursing down towards the ankle. People became frantic. In today's world only some years after that incident, that garment on a man can be classified as tame. There is still advancement to occur for men's fashion and on a much grander scale the gay community. Yet, excitement is ensued for what Andrew Bolton and his team created this year and what it signifies about where our world is going in terms of equality.
This is late, and I fully admit to faults in the tardiness of posting. Yet, the importance of this case is way too important to ignore. It can be called the Super Bowl for fashion lovers which I cannot agree enough. The event is true glamour non-comparable to the atrocities which are award shows. If it involves Giuliana Rancic, show me the exit. Maybe the root cause of it being a better event is the pink carpet instead of the typical red. That could be a subject for debate or Lady Gaga's theatrical arrival or where Beyonce has been gone at the event for over a century. These can be discussed in a latter post, yet what will be mentioned was partly inspired by one of my friends.
What is camp? At least it is one of the easier themes compared to others the Met Gala has assigned. Remember the poor moment of Manus and Machina? Let's not. Camp can be connotative to memories of elementary school with committing to boy scouts for two weeks or summer camp like the iconic Parent Trap movie with Lindsay Lohan. Yet, this theme is referring to an exaggeration, theatrics, and the complete opposite of minimal sophistication. Camp can often be interpreted as comical yet not out of stupidity but of wit. Go for Carol Burnett instead of Snooki. With this theme, the outcome was destined to be much greater than other years because of it being a theme where celebrities who love being the Sun centered among the planets can really commit to what they love. The performances and shock factor were definitely present. Of course there are celebrities who do not abide by the theme to any degree with them usually attaining for the sexy and snatched Fashion Nova look. I understand because of constantly having to market their images, but it is always disappointing.
VICTORIANA
bodysuit from legendary designer Gianni Versace in the early 1990s
reincarnation of the beloved "Crocs" by Demna Gvasalia for Balenciaga
photos from the "Camp" exhibit featured at the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Kylie Jenner in her own Fashion Nova dress
Cardi B for the release of her collection for Fashion Nova
duck lips were standard a long time ago, need to change your look
Death for Baddies? (May 06, 2019)
It all started with a photo on Twitter exposing the label for a lime-green moto-inspired swimsuit. Facts of Fashion Nova's products potentially causing great amounts of harm to customers is scary considering how many people have worn their products and who are swayed by the celebrity influence of them such as with billion-dollar mogul Kylie Jenner and finessed gangsta Cardi B. Panic became rampant, and the news went viral. Yet, others who saw the post familiar with California safety laws noted those kinds of labels are found on a multiple of products in the state. The technical term for why is California's Proposition 65 which orders companies to list any and all potentially harmful chemicals in products. This is applied to the coffee industry; even though, the risks for a significant disease are slim.
The scare of Fashion Nova's swimwear permanently damaging important reproductive organs is subsided based on the company being held in California. However, this minor fact can lead to what else is dangerous whether at a minor or major degree. The general public will never know everything there is in the clothing industries about all the toxicities, yet fast fashion companies and brands which produce a wide variety of new clothing at any point in the year deserves more reserve. Like what was mentioned before, there is an apparent lack of attention and detail put forth into these garments if they can be called that. Research is absolutely beneficial, but also do not be frightened by any possible scare of what could happen.
Country Is Officially Pop (April 21, 2019)
The style of country could be delved into eons of time with the moments of the Southern Belles like Scarlett O'Hara or the good ole' days of Little House on the Prairie, but what will be mentioned is narrowed to the current times. In bringing up the subject again, camouflage has been on recent records. (There will be other subjects or money back guarantee.) This trend has either haters or lovers, but colored camo is a mainstay for street style. YouTuber Rickey Thompson gave the unnatural variation of the classic print a negative view on his video of what to throw out for 2019. Yet, it is still fashionably relevant with the Fashion Nova lovers. Another print that derives from the specific area of the U.S.A. is plaid. It is still a trend after three years making it a main staple for now. Runways accepted it proudly this season with labels such as Michael Kors, Marine Serre, and Christian Dior. Even considering this decade, a declaration should be dedicated to the versatility of cowboy boots. They add a healthy dose of individual character yet can be used with any outfit. Short, white lace dress with brown vintage boots, done. Graphic black and white suit with over-the-knee black boots, done. They can even be used for weddings, which recalls to 2011-12 so vividly but is cute.
Growing up in the remote flatlands of Arkansas, the genre of country was obviously abundant. Seeing camouflage was typical. It can even have many archetypes as in duck camo, deer camo, and digitalized. Those complexities being realized after working in a "yee-haw" version of Dillard's. Much of country anything like what was mentioned can be categorized as simplistic in a negative sense, but much thought is in consideration. This principle is applied in the charming, country fashions as well as music. Currently, the music scene is having an affair into the rustic way of life. It may not be only a hot moment of passion, but a sustaining fire. The supporting cases are the rise of Kacey Musgraves being the fringe queen at Coachella, Maren Morris in collaborating with Zedd, and the now infamous viral hit of "Old Town Road" featuring Hannah Montana daddy himself Billy Ray Cyrus. Fashion is highlighted by the flashy dresses the songstresses wear along the John Wayne-inspired regalia. Country is often played on the side strings as not being as important as other styles, yet through media this belief is inaccurate with music queens Lana del Rey and Lady GaGa trying on the style.
If there in lies any doubt as to the significance of country style in fashion, focus should be directed towards the blue hallmark for All-American cowboys being the textile of denim. The famous inventor during the Gold Rush, Levi Strauss, knew about how to make a textile that endures and even endures in style. Who knew something of a cornflower blue could be personified in so many people's wardrobes across the globe. The 1800s invention has become a standard in fashion. The baggier "Dad" jean specifically has come back which honestly is similar to a pair of Wranglers.
Country fans may feel pride for what is happening within the world for paying more attention to a classic American genre, yet country fans may feel disgust after the genre being so called manipulated into an indistinguishable object that can be of question to categorize the product as country at all. This statement probably stems from implicit bias, but these changes which have occured within the realm of country are beneficial to survival. Country fans usually are people who are delighted by the tried, the true, the tested. Change is not a quality which is celebrated. Yet, it is necessary so as not to be outcasted from the world. People got on their "High Horse" so to speak for Maren Morris collaborating with Zedd, yet the legendary icon Shania Twain received backlash for being too pop and wearing many crop tops. Negative viewpoints will be always be present, but the main goal is growth. Yet, abiding by some traditions can be good. From observing customers working at Lansky Brothers, they still admire the western shirts with campy embroidery, and these people can come from Australia, England, and Canada. The classic, "Hee-Haw style of country can be laughed but possesses an unique charm which brings smiles throughout the room. As long as it brings joy for many, go for it.
Is Coachella Too Much Hype or Actually Worth It? (April 16, 2019)
It seems ideal. The ideal setup of a dreamlike oasis filled with music and dressing with the mentality of anything goes known by the world as Coachella. Throughout the recent years of the '10s, the prominent festival has been witnessed as the destination where fashion and music collide into a wondering polymerization of individuality. The festival is focused solely on what is good in the world without the conflicts people often concentrate. Based on the outfits photographed for the first weekend, individuality was definitely on display.
Controversy is definite in this type of atmosphere where celebrities are everywhere a.k.a. Kendall and Jordyn, but let's talk about clothes. (Besides those stories are boring and basic.) She pulled a Marc Jacobs by being 30 minutes late to her performance but delivered magnificently with her signature gangster bass. Billie Eilish roamed around the stage wearing her insane asylum white scrubs, her do was positioned ala Gwen Stefani in the 90s with the Cinnabon rolls. Mentioning more interesting looks with Janelle Monae who stunned in her black-and-white. She wore a tailored coatdress in an African pattern with a matching kufi. The other look came with a bedazzler (if you remember those) in her donning metallic leggings and jeweled leather cap. The queendom family arrived with her and Lizzo onstage wearing macrame, a Stetson, and booty shorts. What more do you want? That would probably be K-Pop in the form of BLACKPINK who went together in geometric mini skirts looking like baddies from Instagram but stepped up. Red Vegas fringe was represented by two K queens with reviving popster Katy Perry in a showgirl two-piece and country cutie Kacey Musgraves in an elegant cape dress. We all know who won this showdown. As far as the Insta-girls go, a.k.a. models of today, I am sure they looked like their usual selves. They do not really surprise me with their fashion choices. The looks are more about highlighting them given they are beautiful, but they are beautifully boring.
Respect is certainly given towards the celebrities who constantly perfect their brand image specifically through how they look, but recognition should also be given out towards the fans. Outlandish looks were present and a present. The absolute attention-drawing looks are not always in the chicest format, but no respect arrives for boredom's lack of presence. Coachella is a fantasy and should be portrayed as such. An oompa loompa squad carries no connotations to high fashion existence but is entertaining to observe. Yet a mime interpretation was created by a man and woman who both promoted Mucho clothing. Yes, another Lana flower crown was in highlights but was worn wonderfully in extravagance with a 60s print. Psychedelic and futuristic shades were in full view by a group, yet the carefree aspect was not lost. Great qualities from this event go to how people embrace their bodies with no insecurities jamming out to top music. Media is a powerful tool promoting hatred and doubt for people, yet so many don't care. They are going to enjoy the tunes while loving themselves.
Katy Perry
the shade
FASHION + MUSIC
Coachella is an insanely sought-after festival where envy builds up seeing Insta-stories of the events. From an outsider's perspective, it forces the weirdness of people to emerge. The looks can seem alien with futuristic, body-conscious clothing and crystallized faces, yet those looks are normal in the Golden State. Many people look forward to days in the fall because they know how to dress for it. No clue can be applied for dressing in the summer. For this problem, look at the looks here. Flirt with the floaty fabrics and face fringe. Show some skin for a change. Loosen up a bit by playing with your wardrobe. Even if you're like me and can't go to the anticipated events, make your own concert with blasting music through Beats and arranging outfits. Walk in front of the mirror with what is put together. Make this Coachella perpetual where fashion and music always go in sync.
The Fashion Pioneer of the 20th and Early 21st Century (February 25, 2019)
Last Tuesday, I was at work being bored for lack of people and was scrolling the Internet on my outdated phone. My eyes sprinted right to a blurb that alarmed me. Karl Lagerfeld dies at 85. I had to look further because I knew in my gut that it was true. Within a few seconds, headlines of articles popped up all over my phone. In being completely honest, I knew his end was near after the drama about not attending the last two Chanel shows back in January since he loved to be a ham and parade around in tight pants. It still seems unimaginable in my mind because of how he was held in insane high esteem by the fashion community and by a fashion-obsessed wannabe from Arkansas.
People may be confused as to why he was regarded as being so great and admired by so many celebrities, editors, models, etc. His over-the-top exterior was miraculously charming and was found to be appealing. His creativity was seen vividly through his collections even in his earlier days at Chloe. It was also reported that he based and worked on collections from his dreams. From a viewer's perspective, his mind seemed to never stop and always strive for whatever is fresh and exciting. He never cared for what had been done before but always managed to create garments and silhouettes that pushed the fashion industry forward. Yet, as much as he dared to travel into a galaxy of the frightfully, desirous unknown he still held on to classic elements of whichever fashion house he belonged making his garments irresistibly attractive.
People may wonder what significant styles did he create as a designer. I could mention the Chanel pasties on Stella Tennant, guitar dress at Chloe, and making tweed super luxe in our eyes, but the real invention was how he configured the creative director role we see today. From Chloe and Chanel, he was able to blend signatures of the houses and make them current for society at the time. Even for celebrities, he created a particular image that suited their personalities but amplified them. What comes to mind is Audrey Tautou's majestic ad for Chanel No. 5 with her wearing a black satin slip and a messy chignon on a train. She may be controversial but Kristen Stewart definitely upgraded through Lagerfeld with becoming a glam tomboy. Then, Keira became Hollywood wannabe to incredible Parisian darling in prim but innovative Chanel.
drawing of Anna Ewers at Lagerfeld's final couture show
For bringing attention to why I still remain so taken aback from his death is because of what he meant to me growing up becoming in love of fashion. There are key moments lovely in presentation that I want to share with you. Chanel Spring 2009 R-T-W was the first fashion show I ever witnessed, granted it was online, but it still amazed me as a youngster. I still want that black-and-white checked suit on a 16-year-old Karlie Kloss. Now I'm going to an old person voice with a back in my day story. But back in my day, Chanel was always a treat when couture was involved. It seemed as it always the grandest interpretations for how heaven would look like emerged in the Grand Palais. I still love Spring 2011 Couture the most to this day with Kristen McMenamy closing the show in a two-piece bridal outfit composed of a top appearing as glass and a feathery pale skirt trailing behind her. For the sets, they were insanely elaborate that truly dignifed a runway show as being a show such as enacting a supermarket, cafe, bringing a rocket, and even an 30 foot iceberg exported from Sweden. When the question arises of which Chanel show was the best, it absolutely is between Spring of 2011 and Spring of 2012. Spring 2011 carried a beautiful set full of black, white, and jade green. The clothes were quite dramatic with black tulle and ripped denim, and the one spotlight was on Carmen Kass in an overwhelming dress made of peach feathers. Spring 2012 is a personal favorite because of the one and only Florence Welch (my English idol.) Her dress caused her to look in a mermaid with silvery scales and paneled beads hanging like a gypsy curtain. The clothes in the actual show were fit for a princess with the fluttery pastels and possessed an ethereal quality that matched the sea theme.
Karl Lagerfeld may not have been the best acting person with committing activities and saying remarks deemed as indecencies, yet there is no denying of his genius in the realms of creativity and fashion. I said this before to someone at work about how this is controversial in the public, but I believe he contributed to Chanel more than Chanel did. He reinvented a dead fashion house into elite, luxury status where basic girls all over want a piece as long as Chanel is on it. He created such momnets throughout his career that his death signifies the end of an era for fashion. The sadness of his death still undeniably sits over the fashion community. If he could say anything in the world now about what to do, he would say to move on and stop grieving over him. He possessed great knowledge in moving from the past to push forward.
literally placed Karl with Florence on my screensaver
Marky Mark and The Rest for What's to Come (February 15, 2019)
It's official! One quarter of fashion month is over with New York completing its' turn. There is a general consensus on how the city has declined in terms of showing cutting-edge fashion and having influencers water down New York's impact in the fashion arena. Yet, many young, new talents have emerged to take place. New York still has life and not just because the Benedict Arnolds came back from Paris, he he! The principal showman closed the week with this individual obviously being Marc Jacobs.
In recent seasons with using my trusted opinion, the two leads for giving audiences high-end, innovative styles were Marc Jacobs and Calvin Klein. Now that I am sadly aware of Raf going away from Calvin, Marc is now at center stage. (more designer musical chairs I guess) This collection; however did not appear ostentatious like what he usually produces. The show gave off an intimate setting with dim lighting on the models, but the clothes were standouts without much need of any stimulating distraction. Before Marc gave collections inspired by 1980s couture which was performed last fall and for spring, he produced the same collection but in Easter egg colors. His fascination since he left Louis Vuitton in 2014 has been fixed upon volume and proportion. This season the same elements applied in the forms of trapeze-style coats, wide-sized ruffles, and non-quiet poufs of fabric. I enjoyed it because of there clearly being good clothes that are constructed well and thought out without much nonsense and with enough nonsense. Timeless qualities emerged boldly and brilliantly such as with the opening looks of a leopard cape, pussy bow blouse, and pleated gray slacks. Another favourite was the striking unmistakable yellow, taffetta gown with the model playing the part of a new, Spring flower. The plaid coats related to the current era, and the feathers at the end of the show added the right type of fancy to add whimsy to audiences' minds. While it was a quiet show, this could be one of his defining moments because of what the message appeared to be. The clothes obviously still work for today especially with how they are styled by the legendary Katie Grand, yet nostalgia still crept through a doorway to cause people emotional heartbreak just a tad. It offered nodes to Marc Jacobs earlier work with some of the looks appearing as those in 2005/2006 plus a feathered cape moment on Rianne von Rompaey that looked so much like Fall 2010s show for Jacobs. Then, my favorite supermodels of the 90s, Christy Turlington, closed the show in a dramatic, off-shoulder, noir feathered dress passing as evil Odette in Swan Lake. She walked in Jacobs' shows in the past in the 90s and automatically brings back memories of the glory days of the supermodels. The quiet manner suggests in my mind as being a rebirth for the brand. Wonder what Marc Jacobs has in his mind. It will be 2020 before we know it.
Talk can flutter its wings about New York not being edgy enough for high fashion, yet it consistently since recent years has encouraged debate over political and global matters in the world while Europe focuses on what's pretty. There is also much more diversity in New York with giving attention towards plus-size models like the opening show 11 Honore with the outstanding Laverne Cox closing the spectacle in cranberry and corseted Zac Posen. She also brings attention to another group needing focus being the transgender community who was plentifully shown more so than other times at NYFW. Transgender, multiple races, and multiple ages. My, My, My! Such designers celebrate going outside the norm such as Christian Siriano and Becca McCharen-Tran of Chromat. This innovative nature happens in the states, yet Europe still prefers their stick-thin, 16 year old, white girls. What a shame!
Another sign of good hope was the overwhelming focus towards sustainability like at the Fashion for Peace event celebrating the life of Mahatma Gandhi. What happened during New York Fashion Week is the first occurrence of the event and was designed to encourage eco-friendly design centered on a specific theme. For this year the theme was eyes on India and eyes on New York portrayed by the designers swimwear goddess Norma Kamali, ethereal Mimi Prober, sunny-side Mara Hoffman, and Sabyasachi Mukherjee who designed Priyanka Chopra's wedding dress. There were quite a few designers like Hillary Taymour of Collina Strada who used deadstock fabrics for her collection and is now borderline commonplace to use such materials for swimwear lines. The fashion industry changes rapidly and responds to the news of our times such as environmental risks and how gender can be interpreted. Yet, it still can hold onto honored favorites with one of my favorite supermodels.
I Will Never Understand (January 22, 2019)
In commemorating the national holiday celebrating the brave acts of Martin Luther King Jr., there are people spotlighted in this article which showcase talented Black individuals who are revolutionizing an industry that has typically been stereotyped for only accepting a particular kind. Fashion carried a relatively low tolerance for difference a long time ago, but from personal observance, there has occurred several steps toward progress in giving more opportunity to people who deserve it.
Needing to absolutely mention the incredible display of African American heritage through the label Pyer Moss, developed by the designer Kerby Jean-Raymond. He really impressed fashion lovers in 2018 with a collection ranking to the top according to vogue.com. The Spring 2019 collection fell into his signature category of highlighting social justice and awareness along with fashion. The primary purpose was to show the normalcy of Black people in what happens in daily life. Sharing the culture was obvious but it carried an understated value without my needing a snooze button. Adore the one sleeve saffron and embroidered purple shift! Another benefit is added from him producing menswear that doesn't put me to sleep. Greatly appreciated!
https://www.vogue.com/fashion-shows/spring-2019-ready-to-wear/pyer-moss
He was previously written in another post on the HOME page because of his bomb show, but Virgil Abloh has become a powerhouse with running the business for Louis Vuitton menswear to being in charge of his own label, Off-White. Mind you he was the one responsible for outfits Serena Williams wore in Wimbledon which was covered on this site a long time ago it seems. It could be noted he is very welcome on Noel Ruby and with adequate reason. He always offers new and unique perspectives for how to dress filled with supermodels usually for his Off-White shows. His streetwear aesthetic combined with a treasured sophistication has been praised, and he has become a regular for fashion shows in Paris for the past few years. One of my favorite moments was when he sent a collection inspired by the legendary Princess Diana. Unconventionality was prevalent due to the exaggerated tulle and trendy, cycling shorts, but the collection was enjoyable to see.
Bella White is ghosting me for Off-White, but I don't mind
one of the most iconic makeup artists of all time.
A new, modeling face has been in my mind since last season with her name being Indira Scott. She may not last since I like her, but her look is remarkable. Not only having Bambi eyes, she also possesses dreamy dreads which were highlighted in Dior Fall 2018's couture show. As a sidenote, she closed in that show as being a featured model. From starring in only the best shows of fashion month, she has grabbed advertisements from the likes of Coach and Opening Ceremony. Obsession is present from the slight fact of her reminding me of Zoe Kravitz who in my mind is the ultimate cool girl in her fashion sense. These are not the only people represented in the industry with there containing the legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath, old favorite Todd Oldham and the neverending Naomi Campbell.
The next topic needs to be addressed due to rising economic climate suffocating between different groups especially with the two parties which should have never happened. An incident occurred where presumably Republican teenagers appeared to be against the Native Americans around the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C. Bunches of people attacked the school group with one teen in particular because of what appeared to be prejudice. Yet in an article, he stated trying to defend himself and his class against people who threw slurs at them calling them names like "cracker." It is undoubted about wrong action being committed, yet in the words of Dr. King, "darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that." Listening with a calm demeanor and appropriate action is needed to face the turmoil which is occurring every day. Use Dr. King's prime example to somehow make any sort of an impact on the constant violence. Republicans and Democrats have many differences, but they both can agree on one area. They both despise where our country is at this time.
Glamour in Contentment (January 15, 2019)
This may be a stretch for those reading who are older and do not have to worry as much about money. Yet, travel with me to a time when financial issues were debatable and when you lived in maybe not shabby but definitely not a ritzy environment. Times like these can be especially hard, but tons of growth occur during these times. Questions may arise of what has any of this have to do with fashion. That consideration will be treated.
The Japanese always deliver
In this time we are living in, the trend for dressing casually has been more expressed than ever before in history. (You could think of the B.C. era, but that is an entirely different entity in and of itself.) This trend is perfect for people like me who are still in the stages of saving for what they want but have an utter affinity for clothes and appearances. Clothing was positioned in society as being a useful tool in showing to the world what you can afford. Now, it is completely considered normal to work out of the house in sweatpants and dirty sneakers with the individual probably being a YouTube celebrity with 20 million subscribers (ahem, Jake Paul). There was a short story I remember from my younger years in junior high called The Necklace with a lady named Mathilde who has a lowly life wanting more probably wishing she could have been a golddigger. She gets a necklace from a rich woman who Mathilde idolizes and wears it to a ball to later lose it. In the end, Mathilde works hard for the debt she owes for replacing that lost necklace. For the grand finale, the necklace is revealed to be fake. This proving that glamour can be discovered within lowly places that people have usually deemed as unacceptable. The point is it is okay to be fake. Fun fact: Coco Chanel is the designer responsible for costume jewelry.
In this time of life in being young and broke, beauty can be found in the simplicity. Not to give too much humor to the situation, but a broke down establishment has some appeal. Think of Coyote Ugly, one of my favorite guilty pleasures, when at the beginning Violet goes with Gloria to the NYC to set up her new apartment. Gloria seems to not be impressed with the new crib and shows fearful concern which is valid. Yet, now the place could be a backdrop for a ChilledCow video. Onto that pile of worms for my love of ChilledCow, it disperses the aroma of modern glamour. This is partially insane, yet the minimal subtlety of elements consisting of the worn out living areas, casual clothes, and glimpses of nature make for captivating scenery. Plus, the music is dope. This type of rugged glamour is not only a new idea but is already established. It can be considered mundane to wear tons of staged makeup and get-up because the look is too perfect. The cool thing to do is now wear a shearling denim jacket, hoodie, sweats, and white Vans which will get dirty within five minutes walking on the street. To finish that specific look, the option for hair would be to snatch in a ponytail with baby hairs flying everywhere. Yet please do not do this considering how much of it I see. Add some originality! I was just strolling on a college campus and at the mall today, and that same outfit and items are still relevant.
the male uniform going about the streets today with this having subtle variation
Questions can beg for the consideration of older people who do not want to seem as if they are trying to be hip with the kiddos. Possibilities to inject more casual glamour into their lives would be to add sleek sweatpants and jazzy sneakers with an elegant coat or men could rock an old t-shirt tucked into trousers with a sports jacket. There are also older people on Instagram who wear lavish and extravagant outfits with no care as to who will judge them. That is style! It is refreshing to see how this chill vibe is in with no constraints. What is delightful is pretention does not exist in this arena. All are welcome to join and be included. Oftentimes in a culture promoting acts of consumerism down our throats we can be distracted by vast amounts of excess and lose sight of what’s beautifully basic. Not just basic but human. Items that are worn, rugged, have mistakes, tell stories, and are their own flies on the wall of the vast scope of life. Don’t worry about being judged for it because of it being accepted nowadays and judgment for it is not only dated but rude.
Look from previous collection for Loverboy
Cringy Menswear that I ♥ (January 05, 2019)
I guess this section should be updated more frequently since the title is called "Current News," and the last post was on December 1. SMH! I guess one of my resolutions for this new year is to post more but I will catch on that aspect later. Today or tonight the topic is over what is happening currently for Fall 2019 in menswear.
When Iceberg was bad
Usually menswear season is when I register as joyous because of the shows being a prelude to couture season. The mindset of that specific purpose has changed with the desire to embrace the trends and culture of the shows in what the designers are portraying. I wear menswear after all. Not much has occured, but the early stages can be the best with much anticipation for what is to come. From what has been spotlighted by stage lights, trends cover from bright colors, athleisure, and androgyny. These translating to what we have seen before. It is not groundbreaking, but it is still early in the season. Even the 70s influence is very tired and traditional, Band of Outsiders delivered in pieces that can be considered timeless. Their approach can be commendable in using browns since everyone hates that group of colors for some odd reason that I don't understand. From their showing and E. Tautz, I'm guessing scarves can be a trend which is great for the mere factor of wanting to wear all accessories as the fashion hoarder I am. Appreciation comes generously for the plaid and pantsuits.
To see the shows for yourself:
For Iceberg, much needed improvement was added from a new designer. This being seen in clothes speaking to the audience of today. To summarize, the show was cohesive in crazy graphics, sweats, and bold color-blocking. There was even the use of bright, neon green that did not look repulsive. For my wants I love the fitted red sweatpants with the added zipper detail at the boom. The Mickey Mouse merchandise was a nice feature and wise for the market who idealizes couture dresses for princesses in their head. In Londontown, Charles Jeffrey Loverboy is an emerging designer who gave a collection worthy of Anglomania. I knew he was based in London from the 10th look. Of course, the crazy emerged a la Vivienne Westwood, yet there were pieces customers could wear and not get fired. The Goodwill-esque cardigans are nice along with the referencing to Piet Mondrian in the color-blocking like what was aforementioned. The variation in the plaid is a delight from the usual brown tones; even though, the pattern is a tad Gucci. As far as fantasy, Loverboy brought guests into his universe of street-style goddesses related to Boy George. The necessity of the great escape can be lost due to what the customer desires. It is refreshing to see the dream incorporated especially in this day and age. For what lies in store, I am uncertain, but 2019 may start off wonderfully for creating great strides to how we dress because as you know fashion is all about change.
Now here are the theories I have developed within the framework about the music video. First, there was the throwback to early 2000s movies we all cherish towards the days of blue and purple stereo foam coffee cups with Britney being the main chick. I believe this reference goes along with the message of Thank You, Next being the movies were great experiences at the time, but it is time to move on in life. The other theory which goes along with the other one is Ariana Grande playing the mean girls of the films portrayed like Regina George and Torrance Shipman. The later parts of the video gave a nicer depiction of these characters than the original movies suggested. This could show how Ariana has changed as a person with bettering herself from past experiences like the relationships mentioned in the song. I do love this because of it signaling growth in a human's development which I personally have experienced with me about to graduate from college. College is basically going to be my Thank You, Next.
My Thank You, Next! (December 1, 2018)
If you have remained under a rock for the last three weeks or so, you may not have realized the music world falling on the floor dying over (Ari)ana Grande and Thank You, Next. People may consider me basic for loving it as much as I do, but oh well. I believe it is powerful how she was willingly able to take her past experiences and move on with her life. Something I desperately need to do.
The music video uploaded yesterday; even though I thought the song didn't need it. However, it is mainstream pop and they want to make headlines. Might as well let them eat cake! The video was a throwback to early 2000s pop culture with incorporating chick-flicks such as Mean Girls, Bring It On, 13 Going on 30, and my ultimate favorite Legally Blonde. On going from a style prospective, the usual 2000s regalia were used with those cute, little tank tops, cardigans, and lots and lots of pink. The quality of the outfits which I found amusing was that Ariana looked as if she would wear those in real life. One of my favorites being the off-the-shoulder feather top with high-waisted jeans. Totally related to Ari's own style and Elle Woods
"thank you, next"
"Thank You, Next"
"thank you, next"
"Pledge allegiance to the world's most powerful computer"
It's Tough Out In The Grimes (November 30, 2018)
When I first saw headlines about Grimes debuting a new song, I thought to myself why is everyone so obsessed with her now. Doesn’t she produce alternative content that everyone else usually shuns away? Then, I read about her being in a relationship with the business tycoon Elon Musk. She definitely has game. No wonder she is being watched with a magnifying glass nowadays. Just two hours ago, headlines of her debuting a new song popped, and I became curious. Then, on Spotify the song “Venus Fly” emerged. This signaled an opportunity to write about the Grimes and her merch. The merch technically relating to fashion, so this post can technically work.
Enough of theories for right now! Let’s talk some T-shirts. In looking at the designs, they look creepy as par Grimes’ aesthetic. They feature a multi-eyed porcupine demon fish, an insect-human hybrid, and a little girl in need of an exorcism. I dig it! My favorite is the demon fish with bubbles all around her and the shirt being split with black and white. If someone wore that, one would think the person is trendy but also possesses dark and deep seas of thoughts. The logo on the back carries “Grimes” with moth wings on either side, a barcode, and some phrase/word in Chinese (may not be Chinese in fearing I might be offensive). I have to commend the illustration with the boldness of the artworks, yet portraying frighteningly beauty which forces one to stare in captivated fear. Maybe, the amount of work involved in these shirts is due to Grimes’ assumed master plan. All I can say is that if it was, I commend her. De-plugging from outside sources is necessary for maintaining and improving health.
https://www.vogue.com/article/grimes-new-merch-t-shirt-sticker-music-twitter
The song itself, “We Appreciate Power,” has a dark, techno side reflecting the true nature of Grimes. This is yet another peaceful protest in the objection towards technology. Being against the rapid development of electronics is definitely not problematic, but this message has been tossed back and forth for the screens in civilians’ minds constantly. Persistent stimulation is the goal for the world which Grimes has described today. Considering even the singer’s vocals in the song, she emphasizes the importance of the words with her usually giving airy, ethereal notes. The song was hyped up with Twitter along with creating the previously mentioned merch. I wonder if she was elaborating on a master plan. With her being in the spotlight because of smooches with logical genius, she may have generated some electricity in her head telling her to use this new power to create awareness applicable to the world. She may have reflected on the absurdity of people wanting to look closer at what she does because of a relationship and conjured this being an opportunity to produce significant change for the better in the beauty of breaking the plug. Yet, Elon Musk is all about the plug with embracing technology. May not want to know the riffs in that relationship!
Venus Fly is also the bomb!
For knowing about the t-shirts; Sorry I live on Creative Commons :(
Similar silhouette at Rocha
I’m sorry for this late update. My laptop has been a nightmare to deal with, but I have finally managed to upload this article even though fashion month has been forever ago. I needed to fully explain my top 10 favorite shows. Let me tell you that Paris took the cake! They reigned supreme, but others were still stunners too! Let the sassy explanations begin.
#10: Matty Bovan. To me this show was not perfect in the clothes being reminiscent to me of John Galliano for Dior in the early 2000s, but that comparison alone deserves respect. This designer is a newcomer who is coming up the ranks with incredibly embroidered full skirts and punk-filled chaos. I am living for the organic shapes and the raw, artsy prints. Loved Winnie Harlow and her look!
#9: Prabal Gurung: This season proved to be one of the most emotional, and Prabal Gurung is definitely included in this with the inspiration being the designer’s home country, Nepal. The collection was enlightening with bold flashes of color with great shapes flattering women’s figures. Plus I love the affect of the Middle Eastern gold embroidery especially on the pink dress!
#8: Balmain: Who knew I would actually prefer a Balmain look? Part of it is due to it reminding me of Christophe Decarnin (bonus points if you know who that is!) The looks were so filled with modern glamour but with washed down beauty and hair which I am a sucker for. Then, there was a past influence with the hoods and the darker-skinned women going back to legend Grace Jones. Just enough oomph for this show, but not too much like the other ones.
#7: Simone Rocha: I am not typically a fan of Rocha because I find the collections to typically be the same every season, but I was proven wrong with this. The gorgeous yet dated fabrics, shawls, and faces were well executed. The clothes are made for a 18th century Asian doll with how precious the looks are. Favorite fabric is the floral tapestry at the beginning. Looks so 80s I love it!
#6: Ralph Lauren: The master of American fashion is still reigning. For his 50th anniversary, he did not disappoint with opening everyone to his world of eclectic, rugged yet elegant glamour. The velvets, patchworks, and subdued shades are helping us to be more prepared for fall. This is in a different season category but I don’t care. Ralph still deserves to be noticed.
#5: Mary Katrantzou: This was couture. There, I said it. The amount of quality detail in this show I can’t even. There were a lot of references to looks in the past with the stamp looks and the stacked, embellished dress from her first collections 10 years ago. Yet, she made trends with babydoll dresses and shawls. I consider this an all-faves show indulging us in Katrantzou’s specialties.
#4: Louis Vuitton: To be honest, this was so Balenciaga-Ghesquiere I just couldn’t. It is so good, though, and especially to see for this year. The color-blocking, florals, and emphasis on volume were lovely throwbacks in combination with the Ready Player One vibes to make it more current. Favorite looks were the printed dresses with the silver garland applique. Dying for that!
#3: Valentino: Where all grace and status abide. Piccoli delivered again. For me, the black and red dresses reigned supreme in the dominant silhouettes highlighting the models superbly. Can’t beat that! Kristen McMenamy moment and the stunners at the end. The final dress could be considered matronly but felt instead so fresh for today.
#2: Paco Rabanne: Julien Dossena has transformed a brand that was no-show for years to becoming a major highlight for all of fashion month. This show pushed his limits in going into the trendy bohemian, Marrakesh vibes but was done with Rabanne signatures. There was mixing in all the right places with long, lean silhouettes. A show with not as much quantity but tons of quality which is much rather
preferred.
#1: Balenciaga: The designer who surprised me in the best way. There were great clothes that were just great clothes which I love. Trends were not as significant but style prevailed with some weirdness to go along with it. The draped dresses were well done along with those tailored coats which were simply snatched from the face of the earth. Then, Catherine McNeil looking like Audrey Hepburn in Funny Face.
That was a moment for the decade!
Top 10(October 16, 2018)
The boho: the muse for Spring 2019
Early Katrantzou
Dior 2000s
they got served (September 4, 2018)
Sports isn’t my forte, but the Serena Williams’ outfit collection needs discussing. To set the scene, worldwide ultra glamazon tennis player Serena Williams has been playing in the U.S. Open. striving to win the seventh title. Even though it can be remarked how she is very much focused on her sporting career with Williams working it out on the field, she has produced significant looks for swiping the racket that have gotten the newspapers publishing crazily.
The catsuit. You can hate it or love it, but ultimately it was a fashion moment worth remembering and recanting for the year. In observing how she looked on the field, the entirety of it was quite marvelous in giving off a sleek, Catwoman essence with her hair pulled tight in a chignon, simple platinum hoops I am assuming, glittering Nike tennis shoes, and of course, the catsuit itself. The controversial garment was seamed in a most interesting technique in it taking the template of a swimsuit then adding leggings and sleeves with a statement-making red belt to tie it off (quite literally.) Even though the look is beyond aesthetically-pleasing, it offers quite the benefits with it helping to prevent blood clots after her birth which happened earlier this year. So with all of the amazing attributes, why has received the skewed comments?! Oh wait, it’s because of it being something unusual, and people wanting everything to be the same. What a shame she didn’t wear a little, precious mini skirt even though she is a bonafide, grown woman who has a household name. From the officials especially considering the French tennis chief of the tournament, Bernard Giudicelli, they are wanting to enforce stability within the uniforms and implied about how Williams went over the line, which obviously has no grounds with the uniform actually being a health benefit to Williams. Yet in other looks, it seemed she had a fierce comeback.
For her outfits at the U.S. Open, Virgil Abloh, the designer for Off-White, collaborated with Nike to be responsible for all of Williams’ looks. After the attack on her style with the empowering catsuit, she gave her sassiness back with irony in a black, tutu frock that carried an asymmetric detail across the front with one sleeve. The reasoning behind this is done in a humorous but classy way in referring back to how female tennis players are treated with the expectance of wearing the typical, crisp, clean skirt before mentioned. Well, she took the juvenile style and overdone it in the best way possible. Maybe, even the choice to use the color black was in a disapproving move towards Wimbledon with its’ all white policy. Oh, and that was not the only tutu for display. The other statement came in the same dress but in the color, lilac. I am not aware if the color specifically means anything in terms of making a statement, but the tutu message is clear. Williams fought back, and fought back with a win proving that the outfits are not a crucial matter to how she can perform on the field. It is just having to deal with people who carry traditional views which do not make sense and do not garner any support.
In finalizing on a happier note in terms of rightful sass, in the outfit with her black tutu she donned on other intriguing components to her look which gave her the elevated status into high fashion. For starters, she donned on a leather jacket evoking the brand’s Fall 2018 collection with the contrasting, white arrow symbols located on the wrist. Arrow symbols were also on tennis shoes that were white giving it a monochromatic look and making it dynamic. Then, that sports bag! I believe rightfully so that it should have the words of “Aka Queen.” Mine was just an outdated maroon-colored one that detailed the mascot and reeked from years and years of sweat. The photo featuring this could honestly be an add for the brand Off-White and would probably benefit the brand to an insane amount. My theory enlists of her getting ready to deliver. Deliver to her opponent and deliver to everyone who thought she was out of line. Sometimes, when people try to demean others into conforming to their ways, the supposed victims are not victims. They rise, get up, and show them that they are not going to subvert to their oppressive ways. Williams showed them who the queen is.
the Queen
push-ups begone (August 25, 2018)
In the classic phrase, to give credit where credit is due, I have to mention the i-d article that gave me an idea. This one is about the decline of Victoria’s Secret due to the company’s one-note portrayal of sexuality for women in its’ narrow-minded male-approving view. With reading this, a certain amount of shock came rushing through my body, but then I realized rationally that this information makes sense. Women are tired of being placed in little boxes attempting to be the ideal model like Jasmine Tookes or Elsa Hosk. The natural approach to women’s sensuality has rapidly catched fire with great success with modern-day women taking an effortless approach to beauty with the mindset of accepting me with all my flaws. This can be seen in the trendy boy beat look where imperfections are made perfect. Even in one of my college classes, I heard a student describe the brand American Eagle carrying a brand which enabled body positivity through hiring models who look realistic instead of as a hologram. People are responding more to the sincerity and the grace more each day, and Victoria’s Secret has to change their brand image in order to keep steady with everyone else.
Journey with me on a tale of historical, depraving standards. Usually, matters of the past do not interest me to a great extent, but for this article, a tremendous exception can be made. Considering the time of the 18th century when women were only regarded for their appearance and men could only dress in the same drab 24/7, the invention of the corset took a toll on forcing women to have the craved hourglass figure. With observing the harm in the current trend of waist training, discovery enlists of the utensils for a tiny core are able to disrupt normal breathing patterns, shift the internal organs, and could possibly break the ribs if used in the incorrect manner. With experience in watching health-related videos on YouTube, the get-fit-quick method has never been a method that is attractive. Actually, work out and watch what you eat specifically with using cardio and spot exercising for your waist. That is off topic, but if you can’t achieve that figure that is fine. With mentioning earlier in this article, anything goes because of acceptance being what’s hot. Plus we all know the pain endured by Kate Winslet by her vicious mother. Yikes!
Men’s standards of women throughout the years have been problematic. Women can often be seen as holding trophy wife status and having to gain financial security by proving how lovely and desired they are by other people. I know Lana Del Rey is an icon for the sugar-daddy life, but who wants their life to be that empty of true love and integrity. There was a scene in the classic movie Giant, set in the early 1910’s in ranch-filled Texas, when screen legend Dame Elizabeth Taylor took her ground in amidst of a group of traditionally-minded men who wanted to discuss men talk thinking women could not understand it. Taylor’s character did not take that comment too lightly. Thinking of my own struggles of finding identity, this could relate to the entirety of women in history when they for the majority had to considering someone else’s mindset to any possession they carry. That goes across into items that are physical, mental, and sadly even spiritual. Liberation for women is still recently a new topic considering the whole of history, and it saddens me as a man the constant pressures that have hounded them. Yes, equality is vastly approaching more than ever before, but problems still remain.
The norm, right?!
This question can pop up about any boundaries being possible for people including women to express anything they want from the way they dress, how they act, and what they think. The 1st amendment of the Constitution automatically pushes forth, and this is not the end of the answer. For me, this part of America’s legal document needs to be updated considering its harmful effect on society as whole. Without going too far into the mystic land of ethics, any action particularly wrong comes from the view of how it affects others. For instance, going to your best friend’s birthday party in amidst of her co-workers completely topless is not the best way to treat someone so dear to you in taking the spotlight away from her plus making everyone else uncomfortable. I know that social norms suck, but in order to not make some people uneasy or to get ahead in life, you would need to abide by them to some extent. More freedom of good expression would be refreshing to see, but until that happens, rationality has to come forth in life. Yet, the situation for those troubling circumstances is getting better with each day.
In going to Victoria’s Secret, they have managed to profit from basically being a monopoly capitalizing on women’s insecurities and catering to men’s fantasies. In achieving a better understanding of the type of brand it is, I would associate it to Abercrombie & Fitch especially considering the amount and degree of perfume in that store (Oh my word!). One of my former managers I worked with in retail commented on women are realizing a well-made bra does not have to come from there anymore. People are growing to be smarter and with this education, more businesses have concluded to the decision of adding a truthfulness to their companies. The sooner Victoria’s Secret changes their image, the better for their company because they need to cater for women’s needs instead of advertising for men when really they can watch online porn anyway. Women are gaining more respect now with not having to consider men for how they should look. Forget push-up bras and spending every second at the gym for the “ideal body.” The discovery comes that there is no ideal at all. All women in every facet are beautiful. This has been repeated widely with hypocrisy, but now all are discovering its actually true with the media and business to back that claim.
water turned purple
Yet, the information just posted comes from their website, and to be fair other information needs to be addressed from indifferent sources. In an article published in October 2017, H&M was credited as giving a lot of bark but no bite meaning that the claims of using the circular system is not true given the fact of the circular system not being yet in use. Other controversial issues include the use of World Recycling Week when customers receive a 15% coupon for their next purchase for donation of used clothes. This has been criticized for advocating an illusion of creating eco-friendly products but actually is a façade for gaining money through discounts. Yet, H&M was praised by Brodde for stripping away PFCs (chemicals for water and stain resistance) and initiated by the organization, Greenpeace, with attacking the fashion company’s values. In observing the clothes for what they are from the company’s Conscious Exclusive Collection, they offer subtle notes recalling nature but never a tree-hugger overdose with the romantic-styled garments in shades of white, blue, and green. The clothes are not too unconventional for everyday life but are sophisticated enough to socialize within the higher-ups. However, H&M’s boast about using organic cotton is a kind of hoax that can be easily believed without the right research. Apparently, the use of organic cotton for a t-shirt calls for more than 350 gallons of water than the use of standardized cotton. From what other parties have said, I can conclude that H&M is not perfect, but their efforts are not totally debunked. There is exposed effort and time in the attempt of setting ethical issues at peace, and I have not come across problems relating to the harm of the workers. H&M is traveling the right path, but it is not at the rate in which it proclaims. Plenty of transparency about the processes of the company have been generous towards the public, but how do we know what if what is being answered is honest.
In offering a wider scoop on what has happened in the last days, the troublesome situation started with Trump placing a tariff on steel and aluminum exports which fired up plenty of countries. Because of this action, the European Union decided a 25% tariff should belong to items traditionally associated with America such as motorcycles, bourbon, and the beloved afore-mentioned blue jeans. From these extremely radical and partly childish measures, American founded businesses are losing profits. Several Republicans can argue about how Trump is vying to restore America to what is was founded when really through the tariff he has damaged the appeal of what the country’s citizens can create on an international level, which in the last decade has become a requirement for a business to become credibly successful. This reasoning is supported by a tagline regarding the European Union’s decision as a “slap in the face” and the expression of the denim industry regarded as a “pawn in Trump’s trade war.”
horror and made-up? (August 12, 2018)
I was reading comments from a video on the topic being the ethics of fast fashion brands, and there was one which suggested a hope for leading fashion in a beneficial way. Someone posted about how the ultra-famous and ever-changing fashion brand H&M is planning to use all sustainable resources for their items. For those who may be unaware as to what H&M is, it is a global fast fashion powerhouse and is one of the leaders for the fashion industry basing styles off of prominent designers and what is trending for the moment. For H&M to be ecologically conscious is a great deal considering the amount of influence it caters towards other businesses and organizations aspiring to their success. When I first read the delightful proposition, an all-encompassing relief came over my being as to what this would project for the future, but skepticism has grown as to whether or not this is the truth. With this article comes research as to finding answers.
The ZDHC (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals) is a program that carries the main world-saving goal of eliminating harmful chemicals and toxins in the international textile, leather, and footwear industries. H&M is one of the companies which are a member of this organization. The ZDHC is the actual group whose goal is to eradicate harmful substances in the industries previously mentioned by around the time of 2021 not H&M. H&M specifically sets the goal to use all renewable resourcing for their products by 2030. Yet, the person who posted about H&M’s supposed plan does not probably possess enough credibility in fashion for others to completely value what he/she comments on the subject. I realize this remark tastes salty, but it will be washed out later with some tea. ;)
Other information on H&M’s sustainability plans are further explained on the company’s website which describe massive effort executed in issues related to the environment, awareness for customers, and treatment of employees. The changes which have been made by H&M are described with the presumed thought of there being an incredible amount of deliberation for planning the good-natured endeavors. One positive I see from the report detail about how the company has collaborated with other companies and organizations which show accountability and a team effort in delivering results that are beneficiary for all related parties. Companies like re:newcell and Treetotextile have helped the popular brand in offering innovative ideas transforming traditional methods into not producing wasteful pieces and helping to circulate the circular method by renewing resources. This method will aid in significantly downsizing the tragic heaps that have dominated landfills which have polluted the earth. Other innovative techniques for sustainability include safer ways of creating materials such as gaining the help of the company Treetotextile in forming a textile from materials found in the forests with also the company re:newcell in recycling cotton, viscose, and materials occurring naturally to make more textiles. For the workers’ benefits in remembering the tragedy that occurred in Bangladesh, 100% of the manufacturer groups in the country have elected workers to represent H&M, and 40% of the elected workers are women leading the cause for female empowerment in a country even in the Middle East. In making better wages for workers, over 375,000 have been accounted in obtaining a better increase for their salaries, and more importantly, there is communication rising between managers and staff over fair pay. Customers have even been considered in H&M’s plans by pioneering Take Care, an idea pitched to teach customers have to rework garments customers have in their closets and to prolong their use. There is also the concept of customer transparency which has been encouraged by H&M to follow by the use of customers choosing products based on where the product was made plus what fabric is composed for the product. This helps to ensure trust for customers about H&M being a business with moral values.
people's thoughts of green fashion
what green fashion actually is
AMERICANA
our nation's blue velvet (August 10, 2018)
Levi Strauss, an icon of American fashion, formed an item so synonymous with current culture that I wouldn’t be surprised if there’s a pretentious statue of the inventive designer in San Francisco. This everyday staple is an automatic stimulus with America that it is a shame the shining, blue wonders can be gone because of a certain president. I don’t desire to venture too vastly in a political escapade, but in mentioning this fact objectively President Trump has not contributed greatly to the country much less to the fashion industry. This controversial business of all being associated with beauty and expression is often thought as being tiresomely vain and ridiculous with no possible meaning beneficial to society. Yet, a wonderful part of the industry is the confident fact of carrying a product that ties into the country’s origins. Fearfully, though, this product can be gone because of a certain retaliation.
With the terrible sequence of events, many can think to themselves on what America has become. Be abstract for a minute and think of America as a house. This house has endured several blows with floods, earthquakes, and storm damage that represent other countries’ attacks on America’s credibility and trust. Now with the tariff being placed on quintessential American items is like a piece of this house’s foundation being taken away and the house being slowly crumbling to ruins because of the loss of identity. The identity has been firmly established and to see it going is as if a body part has been tragically amputated especially the meaning behind the denim. Levi Strauss imagined in his extraordinary mind about creating an item suitable for work in the gold mines and along with the discovery of gold the blue stars became a symbol for growth, progress, and freedom. This idea can even be relevant with women’s jeans being designed as early as the 1930s which set a spirit called in our day and times as feminist with the idea of a woman being as capable of doing a man’s work. Then, icons are conjured in the mind with imagining great moments in cinema and print with Golden Age stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Marlon Brando, and James Dean in his quintessential role as the rebellious Jim Stark in Rebel Without a Cause. The rebellious streak of the denim is coincided with the two women Thelma and Louise who famously drove as newborn fugitives. Even in print, models such as Kate Moss and Brooke Shields advertised the item for the brand Calvin Klein, which further established the blue jean’s credibility. Lastly in music, a song called “Blue Jeans” by Lana del Rey became another hit for her along with her Born to Die album that hearkens back to a idealized Americana.
This item is not just any item as can be shown but actually carries some spirit and some soul that influence the individuals wearing them. It being gone can be argued that this could lead to a renewal or a rebranding of America in some way, but some things should never die. It is terrible to possibly witness the death of something that has so much vivacity, energy, and holds an optimistic attitude. The tariffs placed are being attempted in being removed, but how far will America sink before Trump becomes dethroned.
X
raking up the leaves (July 27, 2018)
In upon about thinking about this subject at hand, I had to give my naïve, honest opinion about what will be in magazines fully in September. This is about the advertisements for fall 2018. Before this article, I peeped at times to see what was there, but know I dived right in the deep end to know the whole scoop of what is happening for the season. I am delighted to inform there are quite a few advertisements which are artistically lovely and thoughtful, but what is the fun in that? I do have to include those ones which are just trainwrecks in every capacity of the word. So, let us partake in what has been offered:
Firstly, I would like to mention about Chanel, and I am aware that is no photo is present. I tried to find something for the obviously famous fashion label, but I am guessing all of the press wants to be shut tightly as a pack of sardines. The only thing nowadays for the label in magazines nowadays is Margot Robbie trying to model. How tragic is that?
Now this is an actual campaign and one in which I have grown quite fond. This is Alexander McQueen’s lovely portrayal of romantic dream-like clothes amidst the classy yet glamorous city of San Francisco full of nuances, shadows, and skylines. I enjoyed this partly because it not being overtaken by Steven Miesel like so many other advertisements, but the photos are shot by one of my favorite photographers at the moment, Jamie Hawkesworth, who brought his signature warm-toned Polaroid quality to the photographs. The saturation is stunning with the vibrantly blue sky amidst all of the Russian red hues, and deep, onyx blacks. With the photos, it is visible to tell Hawkesworth is acting as a true photographer and shooting in weird predicaments in probably not making the models super happy with how close he was, but it is part of his profession with true artistic license. My two favorite images have to be Rianne in the long, red fringed number leaning forward looking partly as a demon in religious, Renaissance art, and the other is Shanelle Nyasiase’s glamorous look with a ruffled, pink gown draped beautifully towards the back with feathers gracing the bottom posing over the shoulder having the Golden Gate Bridge in the background. Utterly iconic!
For this section I am going to compare two advertisements because of them being grouped in the same category of gimmicky marketing with tons of money to spend featuring Versace and Prada. These are undoubtedly legendary houses that have to abide by the entire public by their prestige, so I understand why advertisements can often be lackluster. However, Versace’s intention of making the longest advertisement possible with 54 models in 1 image classifies in my mind as a Guinness World Records disaster. Who honestly cares about the quantity and the numbers projecting forth?! Actually give a care about the content! Prada did better, yet the company strived for a 360 degree advertisement. The effects are great with the neon lights, and Amanda Murphy is an excellent choice for the brand. Although, the main focus and attribute should not be a cheap trick yet should be on artistic license.
In remembering the former glory days in a later context, Jonathan Anderson picked up Elise Crombez and Stella Tennant for the Loewe campaign. It is comprised of two kinds of shots. One is of the models reading the great works of Emily Bronte, Gustave Flaubert, and Miguel de Cervantes, and the other is of them is fire-engire red bobs lying on the floor of a bourgeoise hallway. Both kinds are fabulous, and I love the approach of giving high quality images that are few than tons of images which are lackluster. On a sidenote, the books the supermodels are supposedly reading feature high fashion images from the Vogue Archives. Jil Sander also produced the same kind of high fashion images that are closer towards the face and pertain a indie-cinematic aspect. Yet, the viewer of the advertisements would not focus on the clothes being the selling point but on the whole quality of the images itself which defeats the purpose of the advertisements themselves.
For uttering the words of safe sophistication to describe these three, they failed to push boundaries but will probably have sales. Fendi enabled the same concept used for other campaigns of building-block props and simple backgrounds with mod styling. This features the clothing well but is just another bore. The other snoozefests happens to both feature the model Edie Campbell. Not to her fault as being a puppet for mediocre showing, but they do not use her to her best advantages. Bally has produced a mock-up of Burberry while Agnona used a sophisticated portrayal that has been used countless times.
For something less depressing from an under-the-radar designer who needs more attention. Ulla Johnson released free-spirited images synonymous with her brand and the movement happening in fashion at the moment. The image that is one of the best I have seen this season is two girls on canoes in mustard flowy frocks in what appears to be rural Thailand with straw huts, a lake, and mountains in the distance. It is probably going to be my screensaver for my laptop for a couple of days. With bringing Miuccia back in the picture again with Miu Miu, it turned out to only be cat eyes, red lips, and bouffants in lackluster posing. The images are not bad by any means, but I would quickly pass by them in a magazine.
These two designers are especially spotlighted this season. One because of the designer’s recent promotion, and the other being a global phenomenon that can’t stop being on top. Chloe’s advertisement was like usual with the type of photography and the warm tones, yet it was refreshing in it’s location being outside remote warehouses amidst the New York City skyline. The girls are modern and chic in portraying millennial young women in trying to look cool which reflects our culture accurately. I do have to mention I appreciate the shoot being in New York City because of that possibly boosting the city’s appeal with recent degradations regarding fashion week. The apple has not rotted yet. The latter of the two is regarded as a millennial icon with completely transforming the brand. Alessandro Michele at Gucci delivered yet again with entertaining everyone’s eyes in showing us his imagination. The first half seems to be a ritzy dinner party gone wrong while the other half includes the film legend Faye Dunaway gucci-fied in tracksuits, oversized sunglasses, and the entitled Dionysius. Both of these series I respect in highlighting the Gucci brand for being both creative and outlandish while also retaining some element of sophistication which attracts multiple segments of age. One picture I particularly found striking and as one of my favorites is my platinum sister Stella Lucia in Little Edie-approved attire surrounded by an entire collection of cheesy wigs ranging from a curled 1700s one ala George Washington to a cheap knockoff of Grace Coddington. It is along with the brand Michele created so weird, but the whole aesthetic has worked so well since he started.
BEST: In seeing these images, I did not know exactly what to expect. I had assumed this would be at least in some degrees decent and pleasing, but I did not envision for my mind to be wonderfully blown from the hinges. Calvin Klein’s fall collection was by far my favorite of the entire season as it showed a chic rendering of what is happening in the world as well as new, avant-garde styles created to challenge the mind. The ads amazingly used his thoughtful clothing as instruments for pictures mimicking the great images of Vogue in the 60s. This was referenced in the play of proportion, symmetrical situations of the models, styling with the hoods and glasses, and the isolation of nature along with models in elongated silhouettes. This campaign transported me to Raf Simon’s world which is a future that is inviting but hosts to be far different from our own. That was a focus in the collection about where the world is going and what is happening in it currently. The whole spectacle with these images and the show reflect how greater thoughts can be achieved through something often categorized as being trivial being fashion.
WORST: This was indeed catastrophic in terms of execution, lack of creativity, and just plain disgrace. Maria Grazia Chiuri sent out non-compelling ads which go well with the non-specialness of the collection at hand. A new photographer was ensued besides Demarchelier. Perhaps it was he who did not get hired, but I bet it was he who did not want the job. The collection that this was based was inspired by the protests in France during the late 1960s about the subject of feminism. I am not one to be against women’s rights or more so the pay gap between the genders, but this needs to be finished with more of a polish instead of a boring performance. For the photos capturing the clothes, quotes were used located in the bottom which I presume attempt to correlate with 60s cinema. They were actually underwhelming, and as I conclude are a cheap stunt trying to relate to young people with what is trendy on Pinterest boards. There needs to be more substance than that and women walking Parisian streets in dim lighting. I do not know what the future is for Chiuri’s career, but from what I have read in my spare time and seeing Dior run by herself, she is hanging by a fiber and not a thread.
Brava!
So what?
Vogue Italia September 2012
King Piccoli
photograph by Helmut Newton
rest of couture and the show that had me cry (July 16, 2018)
Yes, I am fully and most definitely aware of how late I am posting this but from what all I beheld behind these hazel eyes (hah!) I had to post something. This is especially due to the show which forced me in all sorts of emotions for how absolutely beautiful each garment was, and I do not use the word “beautiful” lightly. To start this post in a general manner, I am going to mention overarching themes throughout that week which begin by Miss Markle and Prince Harry. There was apparently debate on clothes of which she could wear as a new royal and from what was showcased much grandeur could be due for the duchess if the Queen can loosen her strings a bit. Another aspect I noticed which I find to be supremely more interesting is the trend of the Catholic-style garments with bellowing sleeves and overwhelming skirts. This is probably due to the Met Gala theme earlier this year, but I would have thought the theme would have stopped. Yet, many probably thought the same kind of thought on the subject of millennial pink. One trend diverting the traditional notions of couture is the menswear look a la Saint Laurent (my favorite designer). At Alexandre Vauthier, a blazer was accented by a wide, hot pink belt, and white shirts were topped off with lovely, black, satin bows. Then at Sonia Rykiel, the trend was interpreted with diaphanous layers and fluttery trains evoking the romantic poets of the Renaissance era in particular to the uber-fabulous opening look complete with a trendy beret. Lastly the 80s are still relevant with many of the shows like at Valentino with Pierpaolo showing bright bold hues, Vauthier giving the Dynasty-era glamour, and oversized bows galore at Giambattista Valli. Speaking of Valli, those bows at the shoulders were genius and needed to be executed way more often than they actually were. Now I will mention the specific shows themselves, and these would be new designers giving us glimpses of the future and old ones showing us wonderful fairytales with incredible attention to detail.
Reflecting the 80s mood at the moment, a relative newcomer Ronald van der Kamp sent out a Helmut Newton-inspired montage giving an eclectic collection full of animated delights. This was not so much a Disney revival, but more so of Tim Walker exploding everywhere. Every piece seems to matter, and that sort of effort is imperative in a great show. I appreciate how all of the gems look as if found in a lost, deserted thrift store in SoHo. Highlights include the oversized, golden blouse with tailored, black trousers and a feathered headpiece, the Grace Jones-inspired orange cowl-neck dress, and the billowy cream dress with an off-patterned sleeve. This sort of show does not attract everyone, but this is what I appreciate about it.
For Maison Margiela, John Galliano really showed the works for his collection that ties wonderfully to the space age movement. The models played the part as extra-terrestial space martians draped in swathing looks of supernatural tendencies. From the first look of oversized, cut-out, bright orange cape paired with a tulle pencil skirt, the future looked bright. There were plenty of silhouettes which seemed to be considered normal, yet the master could not let that happen. The blazers were scorned with orange, construction belts. Coats were tied with massive bows accented on the neck. Everything else was colorfully covered in tulle. What I highly value with his work is he brings you along for a ride into another universe that you never knew could even exist. This world full of teal and marigold faced aliens wearing asymmetrical layers of differing textures could be one that I vacate for a week.
Next is Armani, who honestly when I saw that there 96 looks I was hesitant and thought I would be tuned in for a trip to snooze-fest. The regal nature of the clothes and the opulence impressed me so much I was interested all the way through the collection. For this show, there were two parts which comprised of the regal black-and-white aforementioned and the fantastical comprised of bright aqua and fuschia. The latter part filling that Disney lack if you had one. Great moments include all sorts of non-depressing black like the calf-length, princess-seamed coat fit for a princess and the long-sleeve gown with what seems to be a loose white ribbon at the neck. Then, a great surprise came with the surrealist cape with arms crossed in embroidery. My absolute favorite of the show by far! The rest of the show like I typed before was a Disney princess’ dream but proved in my mind not as compelling as the more sophisticated counterpart. Some designers are gifted with power of enchanting dreams and some design clothes for rich sophisticate with a bougie mansion in the Upper East Side.
This part is going to be the longest with no doubt because this show made me react the most emotionally. The work of Pierpaolo Piccoli at Valentino was a masterpiece comparable for the brand’s archive. The founder himself as well as the former editor-in-chief of Vogue Paris stood up for the frontman’s grande spectacle and what a spectacle it was. Every part of this collection added to the great whole of treating the audience in physical form and electronically a powerful version of artistic sophistication. What was not extraordinarily extravagant was meaningfully minimal. A kind of minimal that is fresh and exciting which can only belong to the short-lived but impactful repertoire that Piccoli has built for himself. Pieces like the sleeveless mauve and emerald dress with a jaw-dropping cowl back and the petal-shaped pink satin gown show that this designer is on a level where no one else exists. From the looks shown I do not know how many words I could type to describe them because of the amount of depth poured into each and every look giving it the love only a true designer of craft could gift. Yet I will say for the elaborate pleasures there was a wonderful black embroidered coat with what seemed to be pearl baubles resembling bushy trees, the long-sleeve iron-clad dress with a matching, elaborate swim cap to match, and a fluttery, black dress with miniscule black feathers which make you to want to murder someone like Natalie Portman in Black Swan. Next, I have to describe and recount an experience through a dress depicting the artwork of Bernini called Apollo and Daphne. The figures on the dress were an ivy green amidst gold, lilac, and other shades of green with the dress being assembled so effortlessly with a drawstring and a scarf to finish the look. This was a wonderful reminder of my time studying abroad in Europe where I visited the Villa Borghese in Rome where this statue is held. The jaw in my brain would drop thinking about unrealistic this piece of sculpture came to be, yet that was a different time when craftsmanship was regular and not as rare. However, Piccoli proves there is hope for the fashion world in creating artistic clothes and presentations. The final movement of taffeta and satin gowns established an appropriate ending to the magnificent show. One recalled to mind what Scarlett O’Hara should have worn in Gone With The Wind for that ostentatious portrait in her mansion as the gold-digger we all know her to be. There is also the orange moment which took all audiences spellbound with Adut Akech closing again for another momentous occasion. She honestly reminded of a flower reincarnated with it being the bird of paradise. For Adut, I say she is the Queen of Paradise. Valentino as a brand has become fully reincarnated as well from what Piccoli has constructed. What he presented was so powerful to me it made me cry. I have never committed that action in the ten years I have been interested in fashion. For couture at one point the focus was on John Galliano for Dior, then it directed towards Karl Lagerfeld at Chanel, and now all eyes have chosen their splendid visual meals at Pierpaolo Piccoli for Valentino.
Palais Royal (July 7, 2018)
Yes, I am finally getting to write about the current Chanel collection which showed a few days ago and will get to later write about collections that are not so universally
known later. However, to begin this grande topic about the Grand Palais located show I will begin to say my expectations of a boring beginning filled with mundane tweed in a supposedly "new" silhouette for a suit will unfortunately true. In mentioning them more in a trying objective manner, the suits had sleeves which were sliced open a little above the elbow and the midi skirts had deceptive slits which showed a much shorter mini skirt. These opening looks quite frankly looked depressing and fit for a teacher of a nunnery/covenant if they allowed such drastic exposing of the skin. Then came an array of another type of suits similar to aforementioned but were shorter which gave the suits more life and could be considered as being wearable. As being the sucker for fuchsia that I am, the skirt suit on look 16 was quite nice and especially fitting for the model's reddish hair. Karl hasn't lost all his marbles! More excitement (and I using that term generously) comes from a considerable amount of poofy moments in attention to the sleeves and skirts. Especially with the flared skirts in the form of cocktail dresses, I can sense the spirit of Melanie Martinez succumbing to the attractive elements of the couture creations. The other poofy dresses shared characteristics of Louis Vuitton looks from previous seasons, but I will allow this to slide because of the fondness which formed from how good these dresses looked. Throughout the show, an abundance of black filled a majority of the show's entirety which dreads my enthusiasm. Myself as well as people reading this are aware of Chanel being responsible for the creation of the little black dress, but black can only go so far in this day with plenty of people seeking ultra stimulation with every second. Yet Karl is more than capable of producing black well including a long-sleeve velvet dress with the cohesive slit having silver embroideries along the neckline and the side seams. Minimal dress but maximum impact. There are also the sheer billowy Renaissance dresses with pop star-appropriate sparkly mini dresses underneath. The final black dress I am going to mention is not an absolute show-stopper but would cool with some boots and heroin chic hair with it consisting of a layered sheath gown with maze-like silver embroidery and that slit. Other key moments which are undeniably impossible to not mention are the band uniform
with the flashes of Chinese red which I originally thought was an absolute train-wreck. Although, I thought a key pop singer could pull that off fabulously, and the ugliness of it is so prevalent and unmistakable to where it is likable. This is kind of similar to pajama like sets of Chanel Haute Couture circa 2012. Another Renaissance moment was the gradual progression of wondrous embroidery in pale grey with antique puff sleeves. This is definitely one of my favorite looks. My favorite I will mention in about so and so words. For this time I must express the grandeur of the heavily stylized set evocative of Karl Lagerfeld's style. Let's say if the fashion industry could be compared to the film industry, Karl Lagerfeld would be the Baz Luhrmann of fashion. Every aspect is EXTRA! The extra showed in the adaptation of the Institut de France and banks of the Seine. Yet, this collection is not the glamorous prestige it sounds. Lagerfeld fell in love with Paris after the toils and strife of World War II. This being reflected in the ashy tones of the looks. All that black makes sense now! Plus the dress just mentioned with degrade of the color and the embroidery completely tells the story of the destruction within the City of Light. I do indeed appreciate the personal nature of this collection with his memories of Paris as a young man during a tumultuous time and in many other collections as well Lagerfeld shows his audience his unique experiences through clothing and art which all artists should do. Now onto my favorite look of the collection and moment. The bride, obviously. The ensemble with the jacket and the skirt portion had an elegant, regal quality, yet it carried a cool modern edge. This edge being the memorable mint and the no train, which both I am huge fans. Trains are not mandatory for every individual. There are for some, but not everyone caters to that pursuit. It is 2018 after all. Along with the fabulous
jeweled dress is the Sudanese-Australian model Adut Akech who emerged as a queen that combined aspects of a Final Fantasy fairy, Lady Liberty, and Queen Elizabeth all-in-one. Yes, this is a great choice because of her race and her representation for the fashion industry on this massive, weighty iron scale. The internet have had buzzing bees react to her being
chosen as the Chanel bride for this collection and still remarking in how there still needs to be more representation for women of color. I do totally agree especially considering how in the U.S. white people are becoming more and more of a minority as time passes through our fingertips. Customers and for the majority of people, fans want to identify with people wearing the illustrious garments, and these viewers would probably react positively. This discussion is a minor rant which I can later discuss in another post, but for this couture-clad occasion, Adut killed, murdered, and obliterated everyone else with how she was presented, and I can wholeheartedly believe why the major point of interest for the show is her. In wrapping up the lengthy writing, I conclude by remarking how Chanel delivers garments that obliges one to dream of a idyllic future with the Ritz, champagne, and the Champs Elysees, but the couture collections need to stop appearing as if they were from ten years ago. I can give evidence on that crime scene of a predicament.
Began by Men, Run by Women (July 5, 2018)
Two houses encouraging supreme elegance with ensembles that transfer to dreams of an idealized, glamorous lifestyle belongings to bistros, tea parties, and galas. One recalls to the glories of the past while the other travels to the future with modern silhouettes. Yet both carry timeless beauty which transcends to the wants of so many women.
With the Christian Dior, the viewer is invited to a grand room with pure figures of white in sections which have a perfect, OCD quality that is disturbing in its perfectness. The creepy sheebies go away when the room is filled with light, and then suddenly Ruth Bell comes sashaying in a black midi skirt suit with oversized sleeves and the trend-of-the-moment beret. The other opening looks had a grace yet boredom with the color palette consisting of black, grainy grey, and princess peach. Hope does exist, though, with pieces excelling in minimalism established in sumptuous fabrics. The blah color palette waltzed away with images of statuesque models emerging as movie stars for the Oscars in plisse gowns made with jewel tone colors. Personal favorites of mine include the strapless, burnt orange and the swanky, mint green which adapted could fit a modern-day Grace Kelly. Another stunner comes to mind with the stark loveliness of the fabric itself being embroidered beige leaves and the minimal long-sleeve dress cinched by the tiniest copper belt fit for a porcelain doll. The other array of gowns that are shown are indeed dreamlike in fanciful detail but is sadly typical and doesn’t stir any debate. I do appreciate the collection’s grace and classical garments, but Chiuri needs to show looks which are not the same as she has previously done before. In other words I can make several cases of Diet Prada with her.
Now with the other prestigious house, Givenchy. I have been pleasantly surprised at Mrs. Wright Keller’s turn because of her previous work, but what she has shown gives a modern elegance to the house. From the beginning, I am greeted with a luxurious, creamy mansion with a spacious lawn outlined with a reflective runway. Then, my heart soars with a Funny Face, Audrey Hepburn interpretation of the famous pink and white column dress she wore revealing her debut as a model. This version instead has a black top with an icy silver skirt looked ultimately chic and one of my favorites from the show. This collection cannot really be put into specific groups like the Dior show but instead everyone looks as if they are going to the same gala. All of these eclectics and sophisticates blending together superfluously for one fabulous showing. The menswear I am especially appreciative of seeing is executed well and sets a precedent for other designers to do the same in producing special couture menswear.
The clothes were sleek and dark. It would be wonderful if they were not almost all black, yet near the end there was a shining, silver topper with fragmented metallics. Purchasing this is almost an instinct for me, but I have to remember I’m broke. With transferring to the women’s portion, several standouts come to mind including the pieces in the same type of fragmented pattern mentioned earlier mimicking feathers. This can include the tulip-shaped ombre dress with black turtleneck and leggings, gorgeous! The caped dress with the vibrant, majestic blue skirt, wowza! Finally, that showstopping cape in shades of emerald and onyx make me ooze excitement with its prowess! As much as this show had awesome tailoring, it carried gorgeous drapery as well. There’s the black tuxedo-inspired garments as well as looks such as Julie Hoomans walking like a queen in Lawrence of Arabia giving me 60s Vogue flashbacks. If you want more flashbacks, there are the silver accessories including the chokers, the caps, and even an epic harness. This collection definitely had influence from times past with the designer detailing about inspiration from Hubert du Givenchy’s work. Her clothes are undeniably amazing, yet I wonder if there is any sense of a rip-off in the stunning looks. I understand all manmade artwork cannot be completely original, and inspiration is essential. However, being a great designer for a house involves innovation, and I am not completely sure Wright Keller involved this principle. To close I want to mention the ending of the show that delights me with the interpretation of the iconic LBD Audrey Hepburn wore in my favorite movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Model of the moment Fran Summers strides in a sleeveless black velvet gown with the major twist being the hood, yet it was not sporty in the slightest but truly cinematic.