Top 10 Fashion Crimes (That Seem To Never Go Away)

Edited by Princess Glover

Walking down the street one morning, I see a young woman dressed somewhat professionally, as if she’s on her way to work—smart, black trousers, fitted white button up and unassuming black heels, typical of the “business casual” dress code. But what caused this mundane occurrence stand out in my mind, and what would be the catalyst for the following rant is that over what would have been a sensibly attractive ensemble hangs a dingy, grossly oversized men’s zip-up hoodie splattered with a gauche, nondescript print. Why?!? I thought to myself, and suddenly realized that such crimes against fashion seem to forever permeate the greater population and assault our senses on a regular basis. I just can’t seem to wrap my mind around why some people choose to look like shit, given the plethora of resources and pillars of fashion how-to at their disposal. There. Is. Just. No. Excuse.

These are some of the worst offenses, old and new that I think if eradicated, would make the world a much better place:

1. “No clothes” clothes. Let the world know how insecure you are.
2. Skinny jeans on fat people. Hence the word “skinny”.
3. Overzealous anything. It’s cliché, but damn true: less is really more.
4. Ugg boots. Why do people still wear these??
5. Ill fit. End the delusion. Dress your size.
6. Mariah Carey.
7. Missing the mark. You tried but it’s not neither here nor there. Go with what you know.
8. Head-to-toe matching. It’s old-fashioned, tacky, and hurts my eyes.
9. Intentional, unnatural whiskering/fading on denim. Still??
10. An ostentatious outfit and a meek disposition. Like the aspiring emo kid in skintight jeans who looks as if he’s been called fag all day. Own it.

Stop the madness.

MOMENTS OF STYLE: Ciara

Edited by Princess Glover

This is probably the one and only time I can honestly say that Ciara looks like someone who knows fashion. Looking to be having a lapse in Solange-itits, Ciara got in touch with her inner fashionista (and maybe a credible stylist) and stepped out in this crazy fierce ensemble for Nylon Magazine’s 10th Anniversary party in New York the other night. I absolutely love everything about this look; the asymmetrically tiered pencil skirt and shrunken leather jacket pulled together with a simple white blouse, wide black belt, and simple jewelry is incredibly stylish. But what really makes it pop are those delicious, fire-engine red leather gloves which add interest and color to an otherwise neutral palette. Now if she can look like this all the time she’d have a reason to stay on some people’s radar.

SHOP: New High (M)art

Edited by Princess Glover

I absolutely love this moderately styled online shop which is a innovative display of some of the most ubiquitous and sought after underground labels and indie designers, made even more accessible just in case you don’t happen to live in L.A. It’s also an extension of the 300 square-foot Chinatown boutique that shares an equally eccentric and understated aesthetic, kinda like American Apparel but less crass. The company’s roster of eclectic clothiers include Costume Dept., Miss Mars, Rojas and Grey Ant making it a haven for hipsters and artists alike. New High (M)art attempts to blur the lines between fashion, art and commerce staging gallery-like 6 to 9 week shopping “installments” in store, with an “emphasis on bringing attention to the risk-takers and more forward-leaning examples of design”. They also have some random cool shit like deliciously vulgar greeting cards and vintage hip-hop records.

Not Since Norma Kamali Have Sweatpants Looked This Good

Edited by Princess Glover

L.A. based designer John Ward has revived the idea of luxe sportswear with his new line, Maggie Ward. Taking a fresh, updated approach to modern basics, his Fall 2009 collection features elegant body-hugging leggings, tanks, thin knit sweaters and bodysuits that you probably wouldn’t want to actually do any real physical activity in. Using non-traditional materials such as artesian Japanese fabrics and washable stretch leather and velvet, these pieces only look casual yet are nonetheless comfortable. In addition to opulent details, Ward’s penchant for architecture is evident throughout the collection with the use of geometric patterns and semi-structural designs. From partying to shopping to just plain chillin’, Ward’s blend of simplicity and luxury makes this label a truly transitional staple.

Accessory To Die For: Nicholas King Bracelets

Edited by Princess Glover

I would have to say that as far as accessories go, anything that can be worn on your arms add the most eye-catching detail and can make the most of any look. Despite being afflicted with abnormally small wrists (I’ve lost many a bangle due to my petite limbs), I have always been keen on bracelets, bangles, cuffs and the like. Jewelry designer Nicholas King has captured my heart with his collection of daring and beautifully executed wristwear that makes use of simple, yet dramatic materials. Made in jolly ol’ England, pieces consist of big, chunky gunmetal and clear resin cuffs inlayed with silver and gold studs, golden rope and wicker, with accents such as velvet ribbon and crystal bows. If you think that’s dope, check out his equally impressive necklaces and earrings that bear a similar aesthetic.

Running In Heels Is My New Soap Opera

Edited by Princess Glover

Although the only time I’ve ever looked at an issue of Marie Claire was offhandedly in the doctor’s waiting area, I am totally enthralled by this fashion-soaked reality show. It’s an entertaining, if not accurate depiction of what it’s like to work as an intern at a mainstream glossy. This show has done for me what Stylista didn’t—instead of nonsensical challenges and novelty, weekly eliminations (that by the way took place on a made for TV set) we see three, couldn’t-be-more-different fashion industry hopefuls tackle real (?) assignments and frenetically run around NYC in their respective heels all in an effort to please the dry, yet endearing editor-in-chief Joanna Coles.

With four episodes down, the characters are well in place. Samantha, who is by far my favorite, is the small-town, doe-eyed optimist whose positive attitude more than makes up for her naiveté. Despite some seeming body image issues—an ill-fitting sample size garment results in a teary breakdown—her sweet and carefree nature makes her stand out amidst the I-take-myself-way-too-seriously ilk. Talita is the opportunistic diva who definitely rocks the best outfits, and speaks with a deep, self-assured cadence. With a degree from the eponymous FIDM, she’s a little tense, but driven. Then there’s the deplorable wretch that is Ashley, who’s “bring the other girls down to make myself look good” approach will really get her far in this industry (insert sarcastic tone here). Instead of letting her experience speak for itself, which she’s failed to do thus far, she flagrantly whines and complains about the other girls getting more glamorous assignments while she gets stuck running mundane errands. Um, hello…that’s what interns do. Secondly, a negative disposition will only perpetuate a less than desirable situation; you get what you put out and being a hater gets you nowhere.

If you haven’t yet, I highly recommend checking it out. It’s as mind-numbingly addictive as Top Model reruns on Oxygen, but better.

Why BET’s Rip the Runway Was Neither Here Nor There

Edited by Princess Glover

I somehow, inadvertently was able to catch the encore presentation of this annual “fashion show”, and not surprisingly, was pretty much disappointed. Maybe it’s the fact that what I had hoped to be a fashion-forward platform for innovative, up-and coming black designers actually turns out to be a quasi-concert where video vixens replace actual models that results in my inevitable indifference, if not despondency. I mean, I get it—it’s the fusion of hip hop and fashion, a cultural melange of creative expression. However (and this is where they get it wrong), the predictable drone that is mainstream rap completely overshadows and, at times, dictates some of the fashions that stanky-legged down the runway Sunday night. Not to say that there weren’t some designers that managed to stand out: Korto Momolu’s breezy, ethnic-inspired dresses and jumpsuits, and Byron Lars’ sophistocated twist on timeless, classic pieces were dreamy and well executed. Even the fact that Joy Bryant was actually wearing makeup and not looking dowdy for a change was enough to keep me watching till the very end. But then there was the tacky, repetitive, done-to-death streetwear, rapper-sponsored labels and Baby Phat copycats that turned promise into mediocrity. This probably wouldn’t have happened had they let Kanye West get involved, as much as I hate to say it, since he seems to be such the fashion savant nowadays. There’s always next year…

RANDOM COOL: Beatrice Boyle Graphic Tees

Edited by Princess Glover

Beatrice Boyle’s undeniable talent for graphic illustration has resulted in a capsule collection of tees, tanks and dresses for the British fashion boutique, Browns Focus. The 23-yr. old Fine Arts graduate of St. Martins in London, uses glossy imagery injected with gloomy distortion, creating pieces that are representative of fashion at its edgiest. Boyle’s artistic coalescence of the “glamorous and the sordid” is fun, unique and makes runny mascara look both scary and beautiful.