FashionIndie » STREETSTYLE

THE DAILY GASP: Candice Swanepoel on the Cover of Harper’s Bazaar Espana

Lester Brathwaite — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 17:23:17 +0000

Heaven must be missing an angel because Candice Swanepoel has alighted on the January cover of Harper’s Bazaar España. The Victoria’s Secret Angel is absolutely striking in Balmain and a flawless couture hunch, raising the bar for all other covers to trip and fall over in 2012.

Photo: The Fashion Spot

NYFW Street Style: The Werqing Class

Jessica Lapidos — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 17:58:28 +0000

Bitches came to werq this week. Part of the joy of Fashion Week is that we tighten it up and put out our greatest. Sunday best every damn day. Droves of street style bloggers and reporters brought out the big guns and snapped it all up to show the world what happens outside of Lincoln Center. Some of the outdoor photogs are sourcing these looks to bring back to their companies to replicate, that’s how much we’re turning it. See the standouts of The Werqing Class.

Might I begin by showing you a proud moment of mine: it’s called Vogue Italia:

Now look at these fab fashionheads turning it at New York Fashion Week.

Bassnectar Brings Heady Dub Step and the Funkiest Dressed Cats to Bass Island

Jessica Lapidos — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:51:16 +0000

On the Island of the Governor this weekend, roughly 10,000 tweakers freaked by the speakers to the massive sound thumping dub step pounded out by the one and only Bassnectar. Not to mention Lupe Fiasco, Z-Trip and other the DJs that spun earlier in the day. Almost as much as I relished the dirty sweaty jiving down in the trenches just rows from the stage to the sound that’s still ringing in my ears, I delighted in everyone’s fearlessly tripped out outfits. Bassheads f*cking brought it on their bodies. Everybody matched the light show – flashy, neon blinding and psychedelic. Made even better for me by rainbow glasses that make each light look like this. See the best of what I saw.

Peace. Love. And psychedelics. And girl in back, werq that denim gartered jumpsuit overall thang.

Vogue China Takes it to the Street

Megan Turley — Wed, 03 Aug 2011 17:00:58 +0000

Lachlan Bailey’s street style editorial for Vogue China, entitled “Handsome Girl,” features a rough-and-tumble Tao Okamoto sporting a tousled bob by hair stylist Rudi Lewis and a vibrant red lip (we’re all about the red lip at FashionIndie) by Sally Branka. The editorial is a study in rock and roll style, with ripped shirts, sequins and studded leather courtesy of fashion editor Clare Richardson. We’re loving the no-nonsense style and Tao’s corresponding, and surprisingly soft cover.

Lenny Kravitz Is On The Telephone

Jessica Lapidos — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 13:01:28 +0000

Lenny Kravitz just picked up the phone.

The Moshi Moshi Pop Phone, that is. And now you can get it dipped in solid pimp gold. Find them at A. Turen, an indie designer boutique on the Lower East Side. They just got them in yesterday, so get yours before they’re gone. And because they love indies much, mention FashionIndie and you get 10% off.

This is the very phone that I’ve been delighting passersby, close friends and myself with for the past two months. Nothing startles people quite like a walking rotary.

Get Nicole Richie’s Hot Mommy Look for Less

Bella Dawn — Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:03:27 +0000

On this Mommy-Daughter day, Nicole Richie and Harlow’s relationship flourishes in florals. Momma Richie plays to baby H’s childhood innocence with pastels and a lace trim. Nicole’s general badassery, however, is marked with studded denim and thick strappy black leather. Her signature oversized sunglasses (which, by the way, she admitted to owning over 200 pairs) help her stay totally incognito… It’s all in the big leather Mom Bag.

Floral print dress not for little girls. Leifdottir, $104

Serious rocker studded denim vest. Alice by Temperly, $150

Over sized sunglasses shield the world, girls. Marc by Marc Jacobs, $98

Black leather ~~mom~~ cool bag. Big Buddha, $66

Comfort and style mutually agree upon black wedges. DV by Dolce Vita, $50

Because we all know you’re really eyeing Harlow’s jelly shoes. Juicy Couture, $70

Get the Battling Brooklyn Decker Look for Less

Bella Dawn — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 20:46:12 +0000

Brooklyn Decker is tapping into military mode with her olive utility vest. She femmes it up with a cap sleeve, embroidered frock and the little leopard chain handbag. Two tones nude pumps, however, show she may be neutral after all.

Green with army envy vest.

Reformed by The Reformation $60

LWD is the LBD’s daintier sister.

Paul & Joe Sister $185

This cat’s got some fight in ‘em.

Lovers & Friends $64

Go nude without the exposure.

Arden B. $40

As you fight for the deals you deserve, who would have thought getting decked was a good thing?

Bonnaroo: Trippin’ on Street Style

Jessica Lapidos — Tue, 14 Jun 2011 21:34:18 +0000

Bonnaroo joins over 100,000 young music lovers together with the common objective of having the Greatest. Time. Ever. The festival went down this weekend in the hottest fun-brewing dustbowl this side of the Mississippi (and that side of the Mason Dixon Line). It was a feast (and challenge) for every sensation, and what everyone wore was truly sensational. I frolicked around with a Flip Cam tied to my body, sneakily capturing every outfit that caught my sparkling eyes. Upon reflection of these guerilla videos, I’ve snapshotted the trends that cropped up in This Tent and That and The Other, Which and What Stages. And this is what you wore:

I Am Hippie. Hear Me ROAR!

The plastic bag ain’t cool, but the rest of her is.

The Great World Worn

Braving the Sun in Black

Be On Neon

The White Stripes

Fanny Packing Hands-Free

Thank you for being beautiful at Bonnaroo! So much of the pleasure of festivals is how people fearlessly adorn their bodies with smile-inducers. Know that the wondrous dressing does not need to stop outside of festival grounds. Real people in a straight state of mind might appreciate it, too.

All photos brought to you by me and my Bonnaroo shenanigans.

Do it Yourself Runway Hair: Fishtail Braid

Megan Turley — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 19:52:21 +0000

Judging by my stifling morning subway ride, summer is definitely here. For us long-haired goddesses, with hot temperatures and humid heat comes frizz, frizz, frizz. Beat the heat and your hair into submission by putting a twist into your daily routine with one of summer’s hottest trends for hair – the fishtail braid.

Making appearances in Missoni, Roberto Cavalli and Prada shows, the fishtail is a fresh, fashionable take on summer plaits. It’ll push your hair out of your face and into the spotlight!

Here’s how to do it yourself, demonstrated by yours truly and my handy MacBook Photobooth app:

Step 1: Separate your hair into two parts. You can do this as a side-braid (as I am doing), or a braid down your back, but you might want to try it on the side first so you get the hang of it and know how it should look.

Step 2: Separate about a half inch of hair (the smaller the piece, the more the braid will look like a fish tail) out of one of the sections, and pull it over to the other section. Pull the hair from underneath the section when you cross over to get that scaly look.

Step 3: Combine the piece with the new section, then separate about the same amount from this new section and pull it over to the old section.

Step 4: Repeat. It may take a few repetitions for the pattern to appear, so don’t get discouraged if at first you can’t see it!

Voilà ! A perfect summer style in under five minutes!

New Photos! Pretty & Plastered #1

KirillWasHere — Wed, 08 Jun 2011 17:13:06 +0000

Hello Fashion World! Some of you may know me, but most of you probably don’t. My name is Kirill and I am the party guy behind the lens at www.kirillwashere.com. This is my first time blogging about fashion, which I can honestly say I know nothing about. I don’t know current trends or who’s going to be hot next season. but what I do know is what looks good.

That’s right, I’m a photographer, covering a very prominent part of our culture. I shoot nightlife — and what aspect of our society is more riddled with crazy fashion than nightlife – it’s our time to shine – strip off those work clothes (for those of us who have jobs) and hit the town to get fucked up.

(That’s me on the right in the coon skin hat along with my buddies Jesse Marco & DJ Sinatra.)

And so because of my excessive drinking and creeping on hot chicks, FashionIndie and I have teamed up to bring you a sorta-weekly blog that I call: Pretty & Plastered! (which for argument’s sake may not always contain plastered people, but will ALWAYS contain pretty people)

I will admit I am very biased, I like my girls hot & clothing optional… so brace yourself!

PS – Don’t expect me to comment on the photos like every other lame blogger does. Look at the photos for yourself and form your ideas – I’m not here to insult your intelligence. And so without further adieu…

Pretty & Plastered: The following photos were all taken at SL East in the Hamptons excluding the few day/bedroom shots:

View all photos at www.kirillwashere.com and follow me on twitter @KirillWasHere!

FashionIndie Packs for Bonnaroo

Jessica Lapidos — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 03:14:55 +0000

WEEE!! FashionIndie is going to Bonnaroo! And this is the giant bag of tricks that’s coming with. (Plus the Wellies that I plan on purchasing in case of rain. Plus the glow sticks I will acquire in due time). While at Bonnaroo, we’ll be chatting the musicians up about their personal style, and how fashion makes their musical journey all the more interesting. But first, let me show you what I’ll be wearing, keeping in mind the state of mind of those around me, so I can make everyone’s trip, to Bonnaroo, as visually stimulating as possible.

From a bird’s eye view of the contents of my bag, you’ll see color on top of pattern on top of sheer on top of lamé, and you’ll even see a fanny pack. There are big pieces, little pieces, warm pieces, swimming pieces and a $1 vest. Here lies before us an infinite algorithm of wild wear for an epic journey. Let me break it down for you.

Sack It To Me

This is a time when those rucksacks I was talking about will come in handy. That blue backpack holds everything you see here. For the festival itself, it’s best to be hands free, erego a tiny backpack or fanny pack are key. Also, string your beverage around your body in a traditional Spanish wine gourd for good luck.

CROP IT TOP

Starting on top, I’ve brought a series of bandeaus. The three on the right are swimsuits. The thin striped American Apparel, and the sequined Pat Field ones are not for bathing, though no guarantees. They’re better than a traditional bra because if you take off your top, you’re still wearing enough of a shirt. The shirts are cropped, wide and loose. They flow and are light as air.

High Waist, Zero Waste

With cropped tops and bandeaus, the best partner is a loose high waist. A flowing floral skirt (with pockets!), a short floral flounce, or a long patterned short are resilient to dirt because it becomes one with the pattern. Or go stretch short denim for the daisy inside ya.

Safety Shorts

When you’re carefree frolicking about, cartwheeling in said floral skirts, you’ll only give happy surprises when your bum is not bare, but covered in shine. American Apparel does great things for happy bikers, and Missoni makes a killer covering bikini bottom.

Dress it Up

Though cutout and crazy here, what you see beneath is a floor length paisley halter dress from Shopmamie that has taken me through some wild festival times. That leopard piece is a piece of holed chiffon that wears like a dress – a Salvation Army find. Then Urban Renewed that fabric on the right into a side paneled patterned piece.

In Case of Chill

If the night brings a chill, I’ll bring my brightest. Both relics from my Mom and Grandma.

Get Armed

But what if it’s not cold enough for a whole jacket? Of you think it might get chilly later and you just don’t feel like carrying a whole extra shirt? Well, my friends, you need sleeves. Made by Tilly and William, they fit snug around the tops of your shoulders and hug your arms like leggings. Made of mustard lace, sold at A. Turen, and psychedelic prints, they can be trippy and practical.

Pants of Two Fittings

Leggings with flair (not flare) and floor length gauchos from circa 2004 will suit me well if the night dips into chill.

Mud Friendly Shoes

Your shoes must be strong, and so must your feet. If TOMS are good for children in third world countries, they can certainly survive 4 days at Bonnaroo. The mismatching “Birkenstocks” are actually by a company named Gold Star which I bought in Rome last summer – they are resilient. The middle pair are by Off The Beaten Track, which I bought specifically for festival-going.

What else?

Makeup – make it bold colors on the eyes, sparkles on the nails, and violent lips.

Water bottle – bring your own for free, earth friendly thirst quenching.

Maya Water Facial Mist - this is an absolute must to revive and moisturize tired skin

Phone + Pop phone – Okay, I might not need the whole telephone while galavanting, but I’ll need my blackberry to

TWEET YOU EVERYTHING!

Follow me @JessicaLapidos as I traverse Bonnaroo…. this could get weird. I’m psyched.

Summer Swag #FashionTalk with College Fashionista

Jessica Lapidos — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 13:39:10 +0000

Last night from the hours of 7-8PM EST @FashionIndie was blowing UP with a massive Twitter #FashionTalk. We had a fast tempo chat with College Fashionista and their Style Gurus about the hottest summer accessories. We lusted over turbans, flatforms, knuckle rings, friendship bracelets, derby hats, crossbody bags and so much more. Insider tips and tricks were swapped and gobbled up. It was mayhem! Luckily the whole conversation is still there for you to see hashtag FashionTalk. Here is a snippet:

@CFashionista: Question 1: What runway jewelry are you seeing students wear a lot this summer? #FashionTalk

@fashionindie: We love stacking multiple watches! Also wearing rings to the first knuckle and jewelry that looks like weapons #fashiontalk

@mollivitta: i’m also seeing a lot of knuckle rings as well! very grunge meets bohemian accessories this summer. #fashiontalk

@fashionindie: @janebhaynes a body chain necklace by http://louisemanna.com is a MUST HAVE #fashiontalk

@franimalRU: @mcarthurjoseph I love body chains but i’m also falling in love with leather harnesses. #fashiontalk

@fashionindie: Friendship bracelets are DEFINITELY back in style — we are working on a post on the best ways to DIY one! #fashiontalk

@CFashionista: Question 2: What is a versatile bag you can wear to an internship but also out at night? #FashionTalk

@JessicaLapidos: #versatilebag BRIGHT satchel: room for plenty, no hands needed.fashionindie.com/brief-your-wor… #fashiontalk @fashionindie #fashioneditor #fashiontalk

@CFashionistaUK: @AlexanderWangNY is the best! RT @frontrowfashion: RT @fashionindie: Alex Wang bags go really well from day to night #fashiontalk

@KateLCooper: cross body bags will never go out of fashion for students, they are the best option for dancing with on a night out! #fashiontalk

@hannahryan_park: @piperlime has amazing amazing designer crossbody bags for a decent price! check it out everyone!#fashiontalk

@CFashionista: Question 3: What are your thoughts on flatforms? What other shoes trends are prevalent on Fashionistas this summer? #FashionTalk

@fashionindie: Flatforms are so Japanese-cute! Super comfy, keep u tall, good for your feet. They are SUCH a win. (@iamsamlim) #fashiontalk

@JessicaLapidos: #flatforms grab the eye, they’re gorj AND points for us -they never hurt. Thanks @ladygaga & the 70s @fashionindie #fashiontalk

@BreanneRochelle: Am I the only one that will hide a sprained ankle or foot injury by wearing platforms or strutting in pain in heels #fashiontalk

@Lposts: @BreanneRochelle totally had a pair of black platform combat boots total spice girl love.. I was very proud.#fashiontalk

@BreanneRochelle: @Lposts I had the Sketcher platforms like Ginger Spice. Yeah, I thought I was cooler than I was.#fashiontalk

@caitlinsole: sometimes flatforms remind me of those moon bounce shoes people had as kids… http://tinyurl.com/4y7ghp8 #fashiontalk

@hannahryan_park: @swh33lz @symaspeaks NUDE PUMPS ARE PERFECT for any outfit! love love love #fashiontalk

@CFashionista: Question 4: What summer headwear can’t you live without this season? Turbans, fedoras? #FashionTalk

@JessicaLapidos: @fashionindie @iamsamlim #headscarves and giant derbies, the two can interplay#fashiontalk

@ElizTaufield: What’s so great about turbans is that you don’t even need to buy one… make them out of what you have- scarves, bandanas, rope #fashiontalk

@fashionindie: Headwear trick: cut off the sleeve of a tshirt, automatic oversized turband! (@iamsamlim) #fashiontalk

@fashionindie: Im also still into the braided rope headbands around the forehead, hippie chic is timeless really #fashiontalk

@maricorgaraniel: fascinators are fun, too (ala princess catherine), for weddings… can you really rock them outside of teh UK though? haha #fashiontalk

@skiesbelow: Fishtail braids are great, so easy to do when you get the hang of it! Love all hair pleats RT @marleegiglio #fashiontalk

Props to @dynamicbovine for the profound fashion randomness.

@dynamicbovine: Maxi dresses are the ultimate way to survive the summer heat WITHOUT shaving your legs. #jussayin #fashiontalk

@dynamicbovine: Seeking high-waisted bathing suit bottoms! It seems worth the sacrifice of a bad midriff tan. #fashiontalk

@dynamicbovine: Shoutout to all my 5″8 and up girls that STILL wear wedges and skyscrape tiny boys with bad height genes. #fashiontalk

Willow Smith Is To Die For

Megan Turley — Tue, 31 May 2011 22:46:12 +0000

Will Smith fell to his death off of a cliff in New Zealand?!? Not the Fresh Prince! What would Willow do? Well, PHEW! It was just a rumor. Not since Orlando Bloom spent the better part of a decade there filming Lord of the Rings has New Zealand seen such excitement. While Big Willy is still alive, we’re dying over little Willow’s style.

Girl is taking advantage of her parent’s deep pockets to explore her inner fashionista, and her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Embracing the wild side of fashion, Willow’s outfits this year have been fueled by nothing less than an animalistic fervor.

Exhibit A (above): Willow in all her ten-year old glory, rocking ripped lime-green leggings and wild stripes in her hair as if she was born right into a punk, techno-color Lion King dream.

Leopard print is on the menu this summer, and we’re eating this next look up.

From her adorable round-lens sunglasses, cheetah print harem pants, right down to her dark brown riding boots, Willow looks about ready to go on a fashion safari.

Willow welcomed in the spring with something a little more polished than her wild former looks, but we love it just as much.

At the White House Easter Egg Roll, the Smith family has a little something for everyone. We’re particularly loving Willow’s matching plaid blazer and shorts with those lime green sneakers, plus Jada’s light pink top with high-waisted paper bag shorts is definitively casual chic.

In other New Zealand related news, are Tupac and Biggie living quietly in a town in NZ?

Granny Chic: Simply a Product of Abject Laziness

Megan Turley — Tue, 31 May 2011 20:58:42 +0000

Feeling lazy? Don’t get yourself down. Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen may have created a multi-billion dollar empire out of laziness.

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen are living the high life as of late, with a CFDA Award nomination and a successful brood of fashion lines under their boho belts. The sisters, notorious for their grungy, “hobo chic” style, recently dished to Style.com about their inspiration:

Ashley: That moment for us was us waking up, going to school, and not wanting anyone to take our picture. Kind of a piece of protection.
Mary Kate: For me, it was so cold, like the wind chill. How could you not put on 20 things when you’re going from Los Angeles to walking through the snow?
A: Yeah, we were California girls.
MK: I think it was probably that. And laziness.

And there you have it; the purveyors of granny chic themselves have chalked it up to a combination of being cold and lazy.

Yet the Olsens are anything but lazy, competing with the likes of Prabal Gurung and Joseph Altuzarra for the Swarovski Award for Emerging Talent at the CFDA Awards, and micromanaging ever aspect of their fashion line, The Row.

On the success of their multiple lines, including the Row, Ashley says, “I feel like it’s been this constant slow growth but a consistent growth.” Mary-Kate adds, “all the companies run on their own.” We get it Mary-Kate, you’ve only been in forty two movies. You’re obviously incredibly lazy.

Source Love:

http://www.style.com/stylefile/2011/05/the-future-of-fashion-ashley-and-mary-kate-olsen/

http://www.wwd.com/eyescoop/mary-kate-and-ashley-olsen-scissor-sisters-3632307?module=recent_home

The Montblanc Hills are Alive With the Sound of Kristin Chenoweth

Jessica Lapidos — Mon, 23 May 2011 21:29:23 +0000

On the sixth floor of Saks Fifth Avenue, Montblanc brought a limited edition writing instrument to light as Kristin Chenoweth brought every guest to a hush. To welcome the first ever white resin version of the iconic pen, along with a solid white collection that benefits the preservation of the Mont Blanc mountain range in the Swiss Alps, she made the hills come alive with the sound of her voice.

Watch and listen after the jump. And find what Kristin Chenoweth is wearing these days.

Enjoy the Wicked voice of Kristin Chenoweth singing The Sound of Music to honor Montblanc and its namesake, the tallest mountain range in the Swiss Alps.

We caught up with Kristin Chenoweth after her tear-inducing performance.

What’s your favorite thing to wear right now?
Very comfortable clothes. I’m really into Proenza [Schouler] right now. I just wore a beautiful shift dress by Joie on Oprah two days ago.

Wow! What was that like being on Oprah?!
Crazy! My head’s not even… It’s still in a cloud. It was a very special moment in my life.

You are such a phenomenal talent. How does it feel to be on the stage?
Always on a stage of any kind is a blessing. Because I get so much from the audience and hopefully I can give back. It’s awesome.

Loving this white pocketed number. Who are you wearing tonight?
Theory! I’m all over the map. From Diane Von Furstenberg to Theory. I go anywhere that’s simple and looks good on me. That’s where I go.

Well she’s beautiful, it must not be very difficult.

The “Tribute to Mont Blanc” white collection will be available exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue in NYC until May 29th, with all proceeds going to conserve the mountain range.

BOUTIQUE CRITIQUE :: A. Turen : Look 4

Jessica Lapidos — Fri, 13 May 2011 15:44:21 +0000

At A. Turen, everything is made with care. That’s just the nature of the designers Ashley Turen keeps in the store. Her hand painted pieces hold their ground next to select designers and and wild accessories. The painting is abstract, meant to give each garment it’s own pattern. How did Ashley get into painting? “I have loved painting since I was about 7 years old. It was only about three years ago that I changed my medium from painting on canvases to clothing. The same technique applies.” See it here.

Want to shop? Mention Fashion Indie when you go to A. Turen and get 10% off!

Look Four: Universal Cutout

The Peekaboo Dress: Timo Weiland, $320

This look began with this thick, smooth stretch dress that toys with the body and the eye. It checks at the bust at the fiber level, essentially building in the bra. And the strip in the middle is sheered black. Timo and design partner Alan Eckstein always make it interesting and know how to get ahead young.

The Universally Painted Dress: A. Turen

Tight, long sleeve and cut classily short, the under layer is actually a dress. It’s hand painted by Ashley Turen to me looks like the far reaches of space.

The Bitchin’ Jacket: A. Turen, $850

Painted by hand and studded at the shoulders, this bomber is bitchin’. That might be the only adjective for this jacket. I felt lie a rock star in it.

The Mesh Ring: Laura B Collection Particuliére, $154

I chose this ring because its multi-tonal woven metal meshed with that of the hand painted effect. It has metal beads tied into it as it sits thick on the hand. I told you about Laura Bortolami’s high fashion history, but now you can find her luscious chain mail in boutiques across the globe.

Check it here:

A. Turen | 85 Stanton St (btwn Orchard and Allen), New York, NY | (212) 533-8200

Photography by Christopher Hall

BOUTIQUE CRITIQUE :: A. Turen : Look 2

Jessica Lapidos — Tue, 10 May 2011 13:32:34 +0000

What, you wanna mess? With this? You crazy?? There might be some vintage teeshirt collectors out there that feel this way about Ashley Turen, for she takes these rare, valuable vintage tees and has her way with them. Crazy? Maybe. But I say fearless. She takes pieces of clothing that have existed in a certain way, and that have exact replicas floating around the universe, and transforms them into one-of-a-kind. Her style of painting gives the shirts an other-worldly, walking-through-space effect. And the cold shoulder cutouts on this one? Divine. And only at A.Turen.

Look Two: Classic Rock Revamp

The Re-Imagined Real Led Zeppelin Tee: A. Turen, $625

There are real vintage concert tees that range from hundreds of dollars to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the pedigree of the shirt. This 1984 Led Zeppelin Swan Song shirt happens to be one of them, and Ashley Turen just happened to have owned it. And thus, she began deconstructing it to turn it into something flashier, given studs and paint and a pair of scissors. 70’s to 80’s is her specialty; find your all time fave.

The Non-Shredded Mini Skirt: Wicce, $190

Paired with the rockin’ concert shirt is a shredded lookin’ mini skirt. Those are no shreds though, for the skirt is comprised of thousands of tiny sequins, jumping from black to gray to give it that appearance. The concept behind Wicce, possibly pronounced witch, is that a woman is space that she must fill up with her own desires and imagination.

The Glam Scarf: We are Owls, $180

Something about this shirt evoked the glam rock vibes within me (all in attempts to get the Led out). So I wrapped this abstract cheetah print scarf round my head and rocked on. Creators Connie Lui, Ling Chen and Emily Chen are inspired by the night, the time when the three with day jobs come together and work on more beautiful things.

The Golden Prayer Bracelet Strands: Louis Morais, $420

Slid onto Portugese prayer bracelets are beads of solid gold. I used to wear these little strands (minus the gold) when I discovered them in Paris several years ago, now they’ve got bling. Morais got his start when he saw a bracelet in a magazine he could not afford, so he made it himself. He has evolved into a maker of fine fun jewelry, and prides himself on quality materials. Find jewelry care tips on his website.

The Mother of Rock Star Necklace: Ann Dexter Jones, $1180

Mother of the Ronsons, Ann Dexter Jones makes jewelry about as cool as her kids. Only sold in A. Turen on the east coast, this collection has a broad sense to it: little gold engravings are shown alongside giant hanging stars like this.

The Wedged Non-Cons: Ash $150

Take the shoes I was wearing in yesterday’s Boutique Critique and throw a wedge on it. Yum.

Ready to rock? Go to:

A. Turen | 85 Stanton St (btwn Orchard and Allen), New York, NY | (212) 533-8200

Photography by Christopher Hall

BOUTIQUE CRITIQUE :: A. Turen : Look 1

Jessica Lapidos — Tue, 10 May 2011 02:33:23 +0000

Across from the comically delicious Meatball Shop on Stanton St. in New York sits a boutique that boasts some ballsy moves of its own. Alongside brands like Timo Weiland, Martin Margiela and other emerging talents, storeowner Ashley Turen carries her own collection of hand painted pieces. Here’s where balls of steel come in to play: she hand paints vintage Chanel bags and coveted concert tees (see them here this week). For the shopper that wants something rich with history and a fresh coat of paint, A. Turen is the destination.

Want the look? Shop A. Turen and get 10% off when you mention you FashionIndie!

LOOK ONE: Crop It Tall

The Painted Shorts: A. Turen, $168

The look began with the jean shorts, hand painted by Ashley Turen. Tattered to exposed-pocket summertime delight, these completely original mid-waisted metallic daisy dukes spoke to me.

The Nude Leather Tank: Maggie Ward, $282

I chose this top for its stability and flounce; the cropped A-line is perfect with a short and tight high waist. Plus, the leather is like cream. Maggie Ward was founded by Three Dots co-founder John Ward with the vision to make comfortable clothing that doesn’t appear comfortable. Tricky, tricky, and totally working.

The Softest Cropped Cardi: KristenseN du Nord, $239

This piece immediately warranted a home in the Boutique Critique. The combination of fabrics so delicate on a shape that embraces the moment makes for a must-have. Since the brand’s inception in 1996, they have worked exclusively with carefully selected Italian craftsmen and the finest materials. They use a method they call “wash-wash” to ensure zero shrinkage.

The Turban-Tied Scarf: Juma, $176

Amidst the wall of brilliantly patterned scarves, this one jumped out in its regality. With the image of a peacock surrounded by its painterly feathers, it just begged to be wrapped around my head until it became a fabric beehive. Brother and sister duo Alia and Jamil Juma forged these scarves and the rest of their collections from the influence of travel and art.

The Memories Necklace: Venessa Arizaga, $325

Off this chain hangs little bits of reminders of the trinkets you’ve encountered throughout your life and childhood. Each piece of jewelry is different; these pieces are gathered by Vanessa Arizaga through her copious travels. Before she took the dive into her own jewelry business, she was deep in the design world working under Tuleh, Carolina Herrera and Zac Posen. This is jewelry with a sense of humor and a background of elegance.

The Sneaks: Ash, $130

Properly faded and bleached, this pair makes one chill summer sneaker. The design pair Leonello Calvani and Patrick Ithier share a history in French luxury and create fine shoes that hit abreast of the trend – they strive to cater to those who seek out fashion in the most thrilling cities in the world.

The Chain Mail Pouch: Laura B Collection Particulière, $760

Made of metal mesh that moves like water, this pouch slouches so elegantly at the side. It has an alternative handle to carry on the wrist as well. Versatile and a little bit see through, I’m rather in love. This bag came to Laura Bortolami in a dream, whilst sleeping in Morocco; a glimmer on mesh. And so she did. Before she did any of this, she worked in her native city of Rome for Armani, Gianni Versace, Dolce & Gabbana and more until she dedicated herself fully to her jewelry venture in 1999.

Like what you see? See more all week here from A. Turen. And here’s where to go to get your own:

A. Turen | 85 Stanton St (btwn Orchard and Allen), New York, NY | (212) 533-8200

Photography by Christopher Hall

PS – Seriously, try the meatballs across the street.

Marc Jacobs Werqs a Prada Skirt

Jessica Lapidos — Tue, 26 Apr 2011 14:53:00 +0000

Marc Jacobs takes a stroll at Bergdorf Goodman in a Prada skirt and shoes. Now, it’s tricky to establish firm feedback on a man in a skirt – even on a man such as this and a skirt such as that – but he’s working it. He’s no stranger to wearing so-called men’s skirt, his first public foray was back in 2008, but now he’s fooling around with a woman’s skirt. See why it works on Marc Jacobs, and if you should try this at home.

The Cut: The length is demure cutting just below the kneecap, and the details on the side provide outer thigh shaping.

The Pattern: The dark stripes keep it colorfully subdued, and the low espadrille flatforms complement it.

The Confidence: The thing is, Marc Jacobs will always be taken seriously in this skirt. You can pull it off too with a demeanor like that.

The Verdict: Let’s put a Bookmarc on this trend, we’ll see who catches up.

Boutique Critique:: The Reformation NYC: Look 5

Jessica Lapidos — Fri, 22 Apr 2011 13:48:51 +0000

The Reformation, named for both Martin Luther’s Reformation to a simpler approach, and for the concept of reforming vintage clothes, is a favorite among reformed shoppers like Leighton Meester, Emma Roberts, and Shenae Grimes. Their reasons for shopping The Reformation on the regular could be its low environmental impact from only using vintage clothing and dead stock fabric, or the one-of-a-kind quality of it being made by hand in-house, or the sexy effects of lace, washed silk, breezy prints and zippers. All of those points and more have driven Fashion Indie to it, making this week’s Boutique Critique sustainably sexy.

Look Five: Spring Spins Sheer and Long

The Sheer Tie Dye Skirt: $175

The dyed effect on this clear piece brings ethereality. It’s meant to layer, so I kept my blinding purple American Apparel tights on underneath. The leggings are low slung, and I’ve hiked the skirt up, leaving my skin only partially exposed, good for a summertime peekaboo.

The Summer Vest Dress: $195

Hitting floor length and speckled with florals, this garment is flexible in its wear. Pull it open for an all-encompassing vest, or close it for a lovely sweeping dress. And it gives me slight vibes of Easter Sunday, which I suppose makes sense, as it’s been reborn.

The Cashmere Crop: $105

Soft and delicious is this little top. It squeezes right into this look, its lavender picking up the purples throughout. In the mid-weather Spring, it’ll keep you cuddling warm with a jacket, but will still be working alone with a high waist. The shoulders stay aloft with substantial facing, acting as its own shoulder pads.

Want more from The Reformation? Check what I did with Look 1, Look 2, Look 3 and Look 4. Happy Shopping.

The Reformation NYC | 143 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002, (646) 448-4925

Photography by Christopher Hall

Shoes by Walter Steiger.

Boutique Critique:: The Reformation NYC: Look 4

Jessica Lapidos — Thu, 21 Apr 2011 23:26:46 +0000

Yael Aflalo and her business partner Chi Bui have not only filled their stores with reworked vintage, but other stores as well. They sell their one of a kind pieces at Saks Fifth Avenue, Nieman Marcus, Intermix and Bluefly (among others) and have created lines for Urban Outfitters: Reformed and Nom de Plume YaYa. Now, enjoy another look straight from their Lower East Side location: The Reformation NYC.

Look Four: Layered and Lace

The Long Lace Skirt: $205

I chose this skirt because it has to be layered, and the lace is insatiable. It’s perfectly narrow at the waist with a zipper, and it flares so naturally at the bottom. Spinning takes great effect in this.

The Nether Layer Ivory Skirt: $145

I went white underneath so that the lace can come alive in contrast. It’s shorter than the lace skirt, so there’s a cloud of mystery by the ankles. The elastic at the waistband makes this piece ultra versatile and the silk makes it super soft.

The Crop Tank Back-Lace: $125

From the front, it is proportioned just right for this skirt, curving up to the top of the hips. The back is made of white lace, covering sheer from nape to waist.

The Plucked Heart Necklace: Pamela Love, $380

She’s the drummer in a band and inspired by everything from medicine to Hieronymus Bosch. She’s making mighty jewelry, rustic, weighty and evocative.

See what else Fashion Indie found at The Reformation in Look 1, Look 2 and Look 3. And visit them yourself!

The Reformation NYC | 143 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002, (646) 448-4925

Photography by Christopher Hall

Boutique Critique:: The Reformation NYC: Look 3

Jessica Lapidos — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 12:59:12 +0000

Yael Aflalo founded The Reformation with her business partner Chi Bui with the initiative of finding vintage pieces to rework into cohesive collections. They scour estate sales and the likes for garments that belong together and redesign them in house. The store is brimming with washed silks, and so is look 3.

Look 3: Counterstripes

The Long Skinny Stripe, $170

Skinny stripes cause an optical illusion. They’re a stark black and white contrast and play with the light to look three-dimensional. This bottom shirt layer hangs way low in the back, a completely different length than the front. It would work alone as a dress on a shorter frame, as it’s a small and I’m a giant.

The Mid Layer Shirt Vest, $145

The optical quality of the stripes is thrown into relief with another layer of mini stripes. Black and off-white, it brings the eye to notice the opposing shapes and colors. Cut narrowly sleeveless, and high at the side, it can stand on its own or as a lovely layer.

The Wash Silk Crop Shirt, $85

Breast pockets and a mid waist crop are some elements that make this substantially silky button up so perfect for now. Layered over the optical twins, it acts like a jacket, but looks and feels like nothing of the sort.

The Thin Maxi Skirt, $145

The layers get longer as we go down. Thus, the skirt is an ankle length swinger. Not see-through but certainly light in texture, this skirt and its elastic band will find many ways to live on your body.

See what else Fashion Indie found at The Reformation in Look 1 and Look 2. And visit them yourself!

The Reformation NYC | 143 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002, (646) 448-4925

Photography by Christopher Hall

Boutique Critique:: The Reformation NYC: Look 2

Jessica Lapidos — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 18:52:07 +0000

At 20 years of age, Yael Aflalo founded her fashion empire YaYa Aflalo out in LA in 1999. Ten years into that business, she switched gears to and began reworking vintage pieces into one-of-a-kind designs. She opened The Reformation LA in 2008 with that concept, and opened this Lower East Side location a few months later.

Check here for Look 1 and more about The Reformation NYC.

Look 2: Work It Two-Timer

The Tall Turtle Stretch Silk Top, $175

This tie-bleached black washed silk tank has a cowl on the neck that is the just the size to hug over my ears and contain my hair within it. Imagine that feeling on a cool summer’s eve. The shirt goes longer, falling just below butt level.

The Summer Slack, $135

The pedal pushers in a washed silk twill have an elastic insert at center back for size versatility. When remaking vintage clothing into something new, the sizing doesn’t always carry over. Aflalo uses this method in many of her pieces.

The Slouch Blazer, $165

Once made for shoulder pads, the shoulders are now rounded into a drop shoulder. It’s malleable and light; an ideal warm weather sport jacket.

The Vintage Wicker Slippers,$95

They like these little ol’ guys at The Reformation. A different shape cut from yesterday’s look, but these slip-ons are super practical; a lovely summer flip flop alternative.

The Reformation NYC | 143 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002, (646) 448-4925

Photography by Christopher Hall

Boutique Critique:: The Reformation NYC: Look 1

Jessica Lapidos — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 05:59:25 +0000

Ring the doorbell to gain entrance to a trove of treated treasures. The Reformation is a store of lace, fringe, washed silk and ultra femininity. It also happens to be made entirely of reworked vintage clothing. Yael Aflalo is the designer behind the store and everything is made in house. Take a peek at what can be made from what’s been made before.

Look 1: Trompe L’ace

The Lace Fringed Dress, $125

This piece is so versatile because it becomes what is beneath it. The low swinging fringe makes the dress substantial.

The Nude Bra Top, $65

The top underneath is made of lace – pile the two laces atop one another and they become opaque. The bra hits the bottom of the ribcage, which equals more skin coverage from the lace.

The High Nude Shorts, $125

These thick silky shorts hug the body close and make a great layer unto itself. The length just happened to cut at the exact proportion necessary for this visual effect.

The Lace Cutout Kimono Jacket, $225

Found in varying lengths throughout the store, this particular piece comes to a sheer end at the bottom of the dress fringe. The silk swims to complement the shape beneath, and it has the capacity to fit a multitude of situations. However you decide to style it, it can work inside the house or out, day or night.

The Vintage Man’s House Slipper, $95

Now, these probably were not made with the intention of being indoor slippers, but they do remind me of what my grandfather used to wear, though his were not as pointy. The woven leather has been worn, and wear with ease. This look, however, could certainly do with a spicier pair of shoes.

The Reformation NYC | 143 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002, (646) 448-4925

Photography by Christopher Hall

Boutique Critique:: Ava Maria: Look 4

Jessica Lapidos — Fri, 15 Apr 2011 13:56:40 +0000

Buckling under the weight of such beautiful objects, and body falling into a standing broken-down doll, this outfit may take you down the rabbit hole. This outfit is seeped in French history; several pieces have a long lineage in Paris. Sought out by store owner Katherine Virketiene, she’s brought into Ava Maria pour toi.

Look Four: AvaMaria in Wonderland

The Oil Slicker Saddle Heels: Repetto, $250

It started with the Repetto; this time, oil slicked. In the most beautiful way, it looks like a dirty puddle. It was love at first glance. Repetto is famous for ballet shoes, and construct gorgeous others for we non-professional-dancing folk.

The Mini Checker Shirtdress: Cacharel, $178

Ah the shirtdress, blue and gold checked, enhances the hidden hues of the Repettos. So dainty on its own, so innocent, yet vibrant as well. Cacharel took off in the 1960s with its iconic shirtdresses designed by Jean Bousquet. Following in the traditional footprints, they are still prevalent today.

The Kitty Silk Top: Paul & Joe Sister, $228

A shirtdress is a shirtdress, and I couldn’t wear just a shirtdress. I was jazzed to find this complementing silk top that slid underneath the open top so smoothly. The blues dance together and the checks on cats patterns don’t protest too much. Famed French menswear designer Sophie Albou started Paul & Joe in 1995 and branched into les femmes in 2006 with the little Sister.

The Waving Belt: Linea Pelle, $188

The gingham and the shirt came alive together, but the look was still lacking something. Linea Pelle belt corsetry filled that void. With the ends fastened at the back, the shaping quality of waving leather strips brought more shape to the silhouette.

The Flowering Rings: Marie-Lise Lachapelle, gold-plated leaf, $350, silver orchid $375

The silver and golden leafy rings flourished on one hand, enhancing the dual tonal quality of the entire look. Marie-Lise Lachapelle constructs these structures by making molds from actual orchids and leaves. That’s why the metal has so much wildlife in it.

AvaMaria | 107 Crosby Street, New York, NY 212.966.0909

Photography by Christopher Hall

Boutique Critique:: AvaMaria: Look 3

Jessica Lapidos — Thu, 14 Apr 2011 04:49:25 +0000

Things got wild in AvaMaria when owner Katherine Virketiene brought out this structural Dasgupta jacket. After pairing it with the leopard shirt dress, there was a bit of awe at the wall of shoes when trying to land on the right ones. There was debate over matching maroons and the likes; with Virketiene’s buying plan, she brings in of dozens of classic pieces that deserve to live for more than just a season, never worn, at a lower price. This is the result.

The Soldier Jacket: Dasgupta, $695

Since I’d heard of Aparna Dasgupta’s cared for tailoring and distinct aesthetic of feminine masculinity, I was delighted to find this particular piece in AvaMaria. It juxtaposes the sergeant closure with the princess cut and pleat-like flaps from the hip. It begs for a feminine shape to flesh it out.

The Catty Dress: Diane von Furstenberg, $168

Diane, known for wrap dresses and dresses and dresses, I fittingly found a DVF dress that accentuated the strong-woman look of the jacket. The leopard print is stealthily spicy beneath the military cut. It’s peeking out atop the collar, so it’s clear that it’s a dress.

The Leopard Heels: Hollywould, $220

Leopard on Leopard? In the words of photographer Christopher Hall, “I won’t shoot this if you don’t wear the leopard shoes.” It’s tricky out there with cat on cat, but the trick is to keep them different enough so they don’t look dyed to match. Like the maroon shoes might’ve.

AvaMaria | 107 Crosby Street, New York, NY 212.966.0909

Photography by Christopher Hall

Boutique Critique:: AvaMaria: Look 1

Jessica Lapidos — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 12:52:27 +0000

AvaMaria is tucked away along the cobblestones of Crosby St just So. of Ho. Inside you’ll find a load of Louboutins and Choos and DVF wraps next to relative unknowns that will soon circulate your wardrobe. Store owner, and former professional ballroom dancer, Katherine Virketiene’s buying philosophy lies in that when you buy something one season, you’re going to have it forever. Therefore, she doesn’t always scramble to get the very newest in Ava Maria, much of her energy goes to finding the best never-before-worn pieces from recent seasons past, and sells them a discount.

Look 1: See-Through Señorita

The Swishy Jumpsuit: Zimmerman, $360

Look One began with a washed silk jumpsuit. With a solid boned bodice, the heart shaped neckline hugs sturdily on the ribs. This allows the swishy washed silk to sway to the billowing harem whilst staying put on top. The pockets are deep and the ankles are stretchy; Australian duo Zimmerman has paid attention to the details.

The Recycled Net Top: Camilla Norrback, $188

This next piece came into play because of its netted quality that sees clear through to the jumpsuit. As playful as it is practical in the practice of layering, this shirt also happens to very conscious of the world around it. Swedish designer Camilla Norrback can claim eco-friendliness since 2002, and has made this top out of 100% recycled polyester.

The Orchid Statement: Marie-lise Lachapelle $375

Pinned to my hair is an orchid dipped in gold, the flower immortalized as jewelry, preserving its natural beauty. This piece originally sat as a necklace in the display, but with a thick, long curved bobby pin, it became a hairpiece rather simply. With an entrepreneurial sculptor father and high fashion model artist mother, Montreal native Marie-Lise Lachapelle captured the attention of her own celebrity clients with her stunningly delicate jewelry. She made the jump from styling to full time jewelry making in 2005.

The Mary Janes: Pedro Garcia, $180

Just about the only thing that could compliment the flower in my hair is Mary Jane. And this pair by Pedro Garcia elevates the look with a touch of demure formality. Hailing from the south of Spain, the brand breathes the Mediterranean Sea.

Read more about the store in our interview with AvaMaria owner Katherine Virketiene.

AvaMaria | 107 Crosby Street, New York, NY 212.966.0909

Photography by Christopher Hall

Top 16 Umbrellas to Weather the Storm During April Showers

Amanda Gabriele — Fri, 08 Apr 2011 17:24:15 +0000

April showers bring May flowers, or so they say, but what could possibly get us through this month of chilly rain and wind? There is nothing like a fabulous umbrella to shield your hair, outfit and soul from the treacherous “showers” upon us during this bipolar month of spring. Check out our picks for the 16 best umbrellas to keep you feeling dry and looking smart.

Cheery & bright - clockwise from top left:

UncommonGoods Color Wheel Stick Umbrella $40 – uncommongoods.com

Topshop Auto Walker Umbrella $36 – us.topshop.com

Bombay Duck Sparkles Folding Umbrella $31 – brolliesgalore.co.uk

Unique Vintage AID FOR JAPAN**Red & Orange Gerbera Daisy Umbrella $25 – unique-vintage.com

Bold prints - clockwise from top:

London Undercover English Breakfast Umbrella $75 – farfetch.com

Fulton Union Jack Garden Folding Umbrella $29 – johnlewis.com

Blue Banana Cherry Skulls Print Umbrella $13.65 – bluebanana.com

Barneys New York Dot Folding Umbrella $130 – barneys.com

Clearly chic - clockwise from top left:

Linea Butterfly Border Birdcage Umbrella $33 – houseoffraser.com

Urban Outfitters Clear Bubble Umbrella $18 – urbanoutfitters.com

Totes Bubble Umbrella $22 – macys.com

ModCloth Vintage Unburstable Bubble Umbrella $34.99 – modcloth.com

Clean & classic - clockwise from top left:

London Undercover Classic Tartan Umbrella $85 – frenchtrotters.fr

Louis Vuitton Umbrella $700 – louisvuitton.com

Vista Umbrella For Two $49 – umbrellastand.com

Burberry Checked Umbrella $165 – farfetch.com

Best Dressed at The Fest

Jessica Lapidos — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 21:39:43 +0000

We’ve established that The Beatles are The Best Dressed Man Band of All Time, but what about their fans? Does the impeccable style of The Fab Four penetrate the fashionable wits of those dedicated to the music of John, Paul, George and Ringo? This past weekend, Beatles fans from across the universe united for a hotel takeover to celebrate the legacy of peace, love and sensational music at The Fest for Beatles Fans. This year I was there as more than a fan (and festival coordinator), I was FashionIndie’s eye, on the lookout out for the best executed Beatles era throwbacks.

Look for the girl with the sun in her eyes and she's wearing a mod mini, psychedelic paisley, suede fringe, chains and a headband.

Sexy Sadie, what have you done? You've made a swinging hippie look.

All we are saying is give peace a chance, mon.

Something in the way you mixed leopard and plaid, attracts me like no other...

Like the outfit? You know my name. Look up my number.

Well they were just 17, and you know what I mean, the way they looked was way beyond compare.

In this velvet paisley, Mr. K. will challenge the world.

Working class hero is something to be. A suit to match your beard is something to have if you're Mark Hudson.

It was twenty years ago today, Sgt. Pepper taught the fans to dress like the album cover.

Boutique Critique:: Début: Look 3

Jessica Lapidos — Wed, 16 Mar 2011 13:07:38 +0000

Début is the kind of shop where some jewelry hangs on hangers. Designers are making such radically new creations that owner Lisa Weiss must often come up with creative ways to display them. Those displays are ever changing because the average length of time she carries one designer is about three seasons. In order to maintain her store’s philosophy, she cannot get too loyal to one designer. She must live by the essence of if you love it, let it go… What comes back is the success the designers see upon graduating from Début, knowing where they kicked it all off.

Own a before-they-were-famous designer piece for 10% off! When you shop at Début, just mention FashionIndie.

LOOK THREE: Abstract Python Warrior

The Shoulder Piece: Fannie Schiavoni, $825

This look began with my love of the chain mail shoulder piece. The metal mesh moves like water in my hand and makes me feel invincible when strapped around my body. Its creator Fannie Schiavoni hand makes each piece in her studion in London, and keeps the color of her materials muted so that she can focus purely on the shape and clean lines. She has named this collection “Lucy in the Sky”, evoking a psychedelic yet other worldly feeling.

The (non) Body Suit: Calla Paris, Leggings, $174, Tank, $98

My first instinct to match the brilliance of the shoulder scene-stealer was an abstract printed dress by Calla Paris. Calla Haynes is a Canadian-born, Paris based designer with a five-year training history with Olivier Theyskens and a serious knack for tight prints. Début had the pattern in a fierce little itty bitty dress (which I spotted first). That mini thing, which being one of the only pieces left over from Fall 2010, did not come in my size, and thus did not even contain half of one of my boob. But I needed an outfit to form the foundation of that glorious shoulder piece. So it occurred to me to try the olive printed stirrup tights with the matching tank. Alone and together I was in love. The leggings have a nearly 3-inch sturdy black elastic waistband that hugs and sucks in as the tank tucks in to form a bodysuit.

The Skirt: Whit, $225

A bodysuit is so right for so many reasons. However, it didn’t feel 100% right at the moment; there had to be another layer, if not to cover more stunning items in Début, then to cover some of my winter weight… With that came this military green scoop pocket skirt by Whit, a line launched by Phoenix native Whitney Pozgay. With a studio Brooklyn and experience with Kate Spade, Three Asfour and Steven Alan, she has created a line founded in imagery as diverse as Keith Haring and ice pops.

How do you feel about the bodysuit? Would you wear this look?

Come back tomorrow for Look 4.

Début | 298 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012

Boutique Critique:: Début: Look 1

Jessica Lapidos — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 18:21:01 +0000

Tucked away on the north end of Mulberry Street, just above Houston, lives a petite boutique lined with the freshest names in design. Début is sparsely arranged to feel like a gallery, built to give each designer a proper artist’s display. Storeowner Lisa Weiss frequently hears from new customers, I’ve passed by it so many times and just never came in! I wasn’t entirely sure it was a store. Let her hear that no more. This incredible little-known and selectively merchandised store sparked my desire to explore the best boutiques in New York, and take you shopping with me. Piece by piece. Designer by designer. Through five original looks. One look each day. Every week. From now on. This is the Début of Boutique Critique.

Like what you see? Shop at Début and mention FashionIndie to get 10% off!

LOOK ONE: Swim Slung Salsa

The Skirt: Heikki Salonen, $585

Look closely. This is not just a dress. In fact, it’s no dress at all, unless you were to pull that skirt up above the bosom and belt it, á la yesteryear’s silhouette. This swingy, deep pocketed, ruffled and raw chiffon hemmed skirt is by Finish-born, London-shown designer Heikki Salonen. Though the skirt looked familiarly pleasing at the waist, I’ve slung it fresh at my very low hip, stretching the length to ankle height.

The Top: Lisa Marie Fernandez, $385

The top is also, in fact, no top at all. It is a bathing suit by Lisa Marie Fernandez. Made of neoprene. The shape recalls forties swimwear while the material calls more for a surf instructor and/or scuba gear. Wear it to swim, wear it to dinner. If you were Gaga, you’d wear it alone to both.

The Necklace: Orly Genger by Jaclyn Mayer, $325

The black and white speckled neon rope tied necklace topped the texture twist. This innovative jewelry from Orly Genger by Jaclyn Mayer is made of entirely hand woven climbing ropes; the knotting techniques are stemmed from those used in artist Orly Genger’s sculptures. The jewelry is a collaborative effort of the two.

Check back tomorrow for another fresh look, and more information about Début.

Début | 298 Mulberry Street, New York, NY 10012

Interview: Going Golden with Advanced Style’s Ari Cohen

Lester Brathwaite — Tue, 22 Feb 2011 16:06:45 +0000

Ari Cohen‘s blog, Advanced Style, celebrates an oft-neglected population of stylish individuals: the geriatric set. Cohen takes streetstyle photos of some of the most fabulous men and women trolling New York’s sidewalks, and they’re old enough to be your grandparents. We interviewed Ari about his love for the elderly, his experience as a blogger, and his favorite Golden Girl. Hint, she’s mine too. Go to Lookbooks.com for our “Blogger Spotlight” on Ari and Advanced Style.

Emmanuelle Alt on The Daily and Outside at Fashion Week

Jessica Lapidos — Sat, 12 Feb 2011 19:45:19 +0000

French Vogue’s new Editrix is the talk of the tents today. Emmanuelle Alt had a full exposé in The Daily Front Row and took over the cover, though without an actual interview in the mag, we can’t be sure it was entirely conciliatory. Here she is coming out of Prabal Gurung, boxy jacketed and denimed as ever, and… what’s that in her hand? Oh snap! A Daily Front Row. She’s got a bit of light reading ahead of her.

The story mused over her beginnings, from the 90s assistantship at French Elle, Fashion Editor jobs at 20 Ans and Mixte, then her decade at French Vogue. They compared soundbites from Emmanuelle to quotes from Carine – it’s a little bit of who said it best. Though the Daily promises to answer under the radar questions, they were never really able to ask them. It’s mostly research and speculation. It was entertaining, but I’d really love the actual lowdown of what’s going on in her mind and at French Vogue.

Photo by Jessica Lapidos

The 12 Most Fashionable Cats in Fashion

Josh Linam — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 18:16:54 +0000

Step out of the litter box and onto the cat walk.

A cat’s-eye-view of the 12 most fashionable cats to ever pounce across Fashion Avenue…

Reginald is all-American prep. After a sweaty tennis match, he dons a cardigan sweater immediately. True he may be uncomfortably warm, but some things you must sacrifice for style.

Sally performs weekly jazz shows at the Cat’s Meow. With sultry gowns and an angel kitty’s voice, boy can that cat scat.

Boomer is a tough guy kitty, but don’t let his feline frown fool you. He shops the Land’s End catalogue with his pal Eugene on Sundays. The only real fight Boomer ever got in was with a nutty PETA squirrel who called him an “animal” for sporting fur.

Sally drinks too much. While her taste for liquor runs wild, her eye for fashion is right on. What a lush!

Cats everywhere itch for Liza’s dress-making skills. With the launch of her ready-to-pur line in November, look for Liza to make a big leap in the industry next year. (Even bigger than that couch-to-dryer leap last Fall.)

Always sensible, Clara strictly shops Ann Taylor Loft. She carefully lays out her wardrobe each weekend for the upcoming week – Monday through Friday, it’s all planned out. Clara could use a boyfriend.

Chazz only wears vintage. He scurries through thrift shops night and day hunting mice and bargain finds.

Bojangles is an eccentric. He often stares into space, tripping on meth-amphetamines. You can’t deny his fashion forward fearlessness.

Well, if it isn’t little miss Sassy. This flirty feline will cozy up to any fat cat for a free cocktail. Some call her “catty,” but she prefers to think of herself as opportunistic.

Hef is a player, and you have to give him props. His cat-call to “lets get it on” ratio is impressive.

If there’s one cat that should’ve been born in the ’20s, it’s Bella. Nothing makes her tail quiver like an old school dinner party.

Clarence hails from Britain, and you can spot his distinct European style from at least two backyards away. Impeccably tailored, his slim and modern cuts reveal a strikingly lean build. (Think Daniel Craig or Jason Statham.)

[Link Love: Fun Krazy]

Runway Model Street Style Not Blogger

Nicole Vardo — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 20:27:08 +0000

Street style photos aren’t just for the fashionable bloggers of this world, sometimes it twists things up when you recognize runway faces in those well known street poses!

Lindsey Hoover

“I’m wearing a Comme des Garcons cardigan with Earnest Sewn jeans, Jil Sander boots and an Alexander Wang T-shirt. My favourite show so far has been Dries Van Noten, which was beautiful. My style is classic and fairly simple, although, let’s say I’m not adverse to a killer heel.”

(credit: Style)

11 French & Sassy Outfits for Winter

Nicole Vardo — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 16:59:47 +0000

Urban twists with wicked french inspired items, and lots of jean jackets to mix up for this harsh winter. Model Keke Lindgard is the official diva showing off these pieces of perfection for Elle France October 2010 . Check out the rest of these duds in the LB CLOSET

Win A Glam Rock Watch From Lookbooks.com

McArthur Joseph — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 20:33:02 +0000

Keep reading to find out how you can win this $1,195 Glam Rock Miami Collection watch made of genuine green python leather and stainless steel from Lookbooks.com.

Glam Rock is a Miami-based brand that allows you to create one-of-a-kind watches with funky mix-and-match straps and faces. The watches have bold designs in vibrant colors and funky materials like python, lambskin, alligator and Saffiano leather. The number of possible combinations are virtually endless as each season brings new entirely new looks. Glam Rock watches have Swiss movement and are made from the finest Italian materials, striking a perfect balance between high-quality and high-fashion. They are available at Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus and Saks.com.

To win this beautiful watch all you have to do is follow 3 simple steps

Steps:

1. Sign into/up for Lookbooks.com

2. Upload your street style photo inspired by the watch.

3. Win!

Lookbooks.com Announces First Two Ruffian Winners

McArthur Joseph — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 18:43:56 +0000

Lookbooks.com is giving away 20 pairs of Manolos for Ruffian inspired streetstyle photos and the first two winners are being revealed now!

Lookbooks.com is giving away 20 pairs of Manolo Blahnik‘s straight from the Ruffian S/S2011 Runway. And the first two winners are La Pollo & Olnu.

Congrats girl!

If you want to win then head over to Lookbooks.com and ENTER NOW!

New York City’s Best Spots for Culture-holics & Street Style Queens.

Nicole Vardo — Fri, 08 Oct 2010 17:14:04 +0000

Starting my daily routine going through my merry way to the FashionIndie office in the mornings, I always like to look around for my daily fashion inspirations of the day, as I’m sure all of you do no matter where you live, but being a fashion kid in New York City has it’s perks, what better way to start your morning off than along side some of the best dressed and most interesting people ever! Plus having a little Strokes and Vampire Weekend playing on my iPod in the back ground, coffee in one hand and a camera in the other… pure genius.

Lorimer

L train to Bedford

Chelsea Area

Columbus Circle

Astor Place./St. Marks

5th ave/53st.

Washington Sq. Filled with stylish NYU hipster lovin’

Today’s Moment of Cool is Brought to You by Kate Lanphear

Saynt — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 15:51:06 +0000

Somehow Kate Lanphear always manages to look like that bitch in high school who was so painfully bad ass you just wished she’d put a cigarette out on you face and fuck you… No? Just Me? Okay. I’ll get some help…prudes…

Amber Rose Wears a Black Christmas Tree

Saynt — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 15:38:39 +0000

For some reason I want to blame Henry Holland for this.

Link Love: The Jezies

STREET ZEROES: This Pinata is Too Legit to Quit

Saynt — Thu, 09 Sep 2010 14:00:29 +0000

You know how sometimes you go through your parents old photos and notice one horrific outfit which just calls back to that time period like platform shoes on dad or headbands and leg warmers on mom, we’ll in twenty years it’ll be photos like this that make our future children happy they have a better grasp on timeless style.

It’s okay to laugh, there’s a 90% chance this jacket comes with an attitude as obnoxiously annoying as Micheal Kors on Project Runway.

FASHION FAIL: Designers Won’t Lend Dresses to Christina Hendricks

Amanda Gabriele — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 15:24:03 +0000

Even if you’re on an Emmy award-winning television show, don’t expect designers to support you unless you’re a size 0 or 2. Mad Men’s Christina Hendricks was able to snag a gorgeous Zac Posen gown for this year’s awards, but her search was not easy. Read more…

“People have been saying some nice, wonderful things about me, yet not one designer in town will loan me a dress,” Christina Hendricks said. “They only lend out a size 0 or 2. So I’m still struggling for someone to give me a darn dress. This has always been my size. I’ve worked on other shows with this same size, but Mad Men celebrates it and that is nice.”

It’s really time to get with the program, people. Starvation isn’t for everyone, so let’s throw the healthy ladies a bone.

LINK LOVE: Hollyscoop

PHOTOSHOP OF HORRORS: Diane Von Furstenberg Dress Made for Women With Gumby Elbows

Amanda Gabriele — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:28:18 +0000

Well isn’t this fancy. If you buy this Diane Von Furstenberg dress on Bloomingdales.com, you arms will magically grow to epic, Inspector Gadget proportions. Great job on the Photoshop work, asshole. I’m sure you’ll be getting a healthy bonus this year.

LINK LOVE: Jezebel

The NYSE Threatens to Delist American Apparel

Amanda Gabriele — Wed, 25 Aug 2010 16:07:47 +0000

American Apparel Inc. could be delisted if it does not file its second quarter results in a timely manner. The New York Stock Exchange sent the retailer a letter with the warning Monday. Read more…

American Apparel said:

The delay in filing has been caused by the resignation of Deloitte & Touche as American Apparel’s auditor after the accounting firm said it found material weaknesses in internal controls over financial reporting. Deloitte requested more information from the company to determine if there were problems in previous financial reports. American Apparel has said it is working to give Deloitte more informatin.
American Apparel has hired back its former auditor, Marcum. The Los Angeles-based company said Marcum needs more time to review procedures for the first two quarters of the year.

LINK LOVE: The Cut

FASHION FAIL: Jimmy Choo for Uggs

Amanda Gabriele — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 18:57:46 +0000

The day was going so well until I saw these. I am so upset that Jimmy Choo would associate his beautiful designs with this disgusting shoe brand. Now sorority girls everywhere can barf up that keg beer in high style.

LINK LOVE: Refinery29

FASHION FAIL: Extreme Black Eyeliner

Amanda Gabriele — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 20:20:15 +0000

Taylor Momsen, we all know, is just all-around terrible. But this look might be her grossest. Now she’s just a bad Halloween costume.

LINK LOVE: Bella Sugar

WTF?!?: Vatooing

Amanda Gabriele — Fri, 20 Aug 2010 18:58:18 +0000

This might be the stupidest thing I’ve seen all month. Why would you pay top-dollar for a temporary tattoo? Go to the grocery store, put a quarter in the machine and just apply yourself. A link to the ridiculous video after the jump…

Lose a few IQ points, and see the video here.

LINK LOVE: The Luxury Spot

FASHION FAIL: Taylor Momsen Criticizes Rihanna

Amanda Gabriele — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 14:58:12 +0000

The girl who thinks she can wear a garter instead of pants thinks she can tell Rihanna what’s up. Wrong Momsen, try again. The 17-year-old, in the September issue of Spin, thinks it’s annoying Rihanna wears leather jackets. Read more…

Why does Momsen think it’s annoying? “People think pop is rock, and the lines are getting blurred,” she says. “Now Rihanna’s wearing f—— leather jackets, and it’s really annoying.”

Really? You should be taking tips from the fabulous fashionista, Grammy award-winning Rihanna and shut the fuck up Momsen.

LINK LOVE: Racked

FASHION FAIL: Silly Bandz

Amanda Gabriele — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 23:37:47 +0000

Oh man, I have been waiting months to get this off my chest. I fucking HATE Silly Bandz. The brand’s website says they are the “hottest new fashion accessory.” Why are adults wearing a rubber accessory meant for five-year-olds? Let’s explore the possibilities. Read more…

Let me present to you the Top 5 Reasons Why Humans Older Than Five Wear Silly Bandz:

5. They didn’t make it past preschool and need help learning their animals.

4. The Letter People couldn’t break through, so they don’t know their ABCs.

3. OfficeMax was out of rubber band balls on their last store visit.

2. They missed the Pogs faze and never got to trade anything in school.

And drum roll please, the #1 reason people older than five wear Silly Bandz:

1. They have absolutely no style or sophistication when it comes to accessorizing.

Oh how Coco Chanel is turning in her grave.

IMAGE VIA Silly Bandz