We are urberly buberly happy for the success of (capsule), the men’s show that brought the likes of Yoko, Wrath Arcane, and Acne Jeans.

Word on the street is that the (capsule) show was the highlight of men’s fashion week in NY and the only show that mattered for people looking for menswear that was fresh and inspiring.

There were plenty of slim trousers, cardigans and woven shirts to be found, but all had a twist to them, whether it be contrast fabric lining or unusual button treatments. Directional footwear, evolved streetwear, unique eyewear and accessories and handcrafted denim rounded out the assortment.

There’s a new movement in men’s fashion, and (capsule) is at its forefront.

Popularity: 7% [?]

A girl can never have too many bags, every occasion calls for a different one, whether it be an elegant clutch for a night out, or a larger shoulder bag for your every day needs. So how do you find that perfect mix, that great bag you can use anywhere and still fit all your crap in? Here are some things to look for:

1. A neutral color like black, chocolate or charcoal, that’s timeless and looks good with whatever you decide to throw on.

2. Plenty of inside pockets and compartments so you can stay organized without having to try to hard.

3. Fun detailing like plated logos, buttons, buckles or a simple pattern.

4. A durable fabric, for example leather, that wont look like a hand-me-down after a month.

5. Not so large so that you look like you’re carrying around your luggage.

Chances are you’re going to find more then one perfect bag for yourself because there are so many amazing ones to choose from this season, so once you pick one, go ahead and get some more.

Think you know what it takes to make the perfect carry-all? Enter maurices Project Handbag and design the accessory with attitude. The winning designer will get a VIP trip to NYC, a $500 shopping spree at maurices, and you’ll see your design put into production and sold at maurices stores all across the USA!!!

CLICK HERE to submit your design today cause the competition ends February 11th.

Popularity: 5% [?]

So I don’t know how I feel about polka dots. Ya see they have this weird stigma to them. They aren’t for men which means the male species hasn’t had the opportunity to embrace it. But women seem to get it, but does that mean it’s a good look?

This look from AKA New York seems to make polka dots look good. The large size and color make the dress seem fresh and perfect for spring. Available exclusively at shopbop.com. It might be a great look for the indie girl looking to the spring for some fresh prints and a chance to show a little leg. Get it now.

Popularity: 2% [?]

So here is our picks for trends that will take you from Fall (since winter never happened here in NYC) to Spring (which is like now with this crazy warm weather, I mean we had dinner out on the porch last night and it’s January!).

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1. Purple
Totally my new signature color. Everything I’ve bought in the past few weeks has been a shade of purple. Even my manicure is royal purple. This is a color anyone can wear, from pale to tan this color can be rocked to any event or hip party, and will make you stand out from the all black New York crowd. Pair it with neutrals or punch it will a pastel, don’t do it head to toe, and please no purple eye shadow!

2. Geometric Shapes and Patterns
This was supposed to be a winter trend but since we’ve had no winter this year, I’m taking the trend into Spring. Contrasting colors work best with this look and a great pattered top goes really well with your fave jeans or black pants.

3. Ruffles
Anything feminine is in for Spring and dramatic flamenco-inspired ruffles and are a great way to add some femininity to an ordinary outfit. Multi-teared ruffles were shown on almost every runway from Zac Posen to Marc (no need for a last name, he’s infamous, and very friendly on Myspace)!

4/5. High Waist and Wide Leg
If you still haven’t gotten into this look, Spring is your last chance. From denim to skirts and linen pants, this look will still be with us through out the next few months. Paired with flats or high heals, it adds length to the torso to hold in all those holiday snacks that we’re all still digesting.

6. High Legs
Even though I’m not a fan of mini skirts or short shorts, this look is very in for the upcoming season, and since this is supposed to be the hottest Spring/Summer (thanks allot Al Gore), we should all get used to wearing close to nothing. Plus, this look elongates the legs, adds height, and attracts all kinds of attention (whether or not it’s wanted is questionable)!
7. Dresses

Yes, this is a no brainier! When you don’t feel like getting dressed or don’t know what to wear, dresses are the perfect thing to just throw on. Dressed up or down, with accessories or not, with any heal, dresses are the perfect thing to have in your closet. This Spring all kinds of dresses will hit the stores, from long and flowy, to short and sweet, to one shoulder styles right off the runway…

8. Big Shoulders
This is not the best look for everyone, but since it was all over the runway I have to mention it. This doesn’t mean to pull out the shoulder pads, just add a little volume with ruffles or puff sleeves.

9. White Head to Toe
White is a great way to feel like you are on a beach vacation and still run around the streets of NYC. Besides getting dirty really easily, this look is great for a cool Spring night out and great for a hot day.

10. Polka Dots and Tie Dye
So this is Daniel’s add on to MY article…. I think both these looks make you look like you’re back in middle school but what do I know? If Marc says it’s cool it must be so!

P.S. Just a few little trends that we would like to see the death of before Spring arrives:

Embellished Denim
I don’t care if it’s Cavalli, this looks makes you seem 40 years older than you are, it’s not a good way to accessorize your outfit.

Red Lipstick
This was a Fall/Winter look to brighten up everyone’s skin from lack of sunlight, but now that there is sun, a glossy nude lip is the rage. Make-up should be natural and enhance your best features and unless it’s the perfect shade of red for a great cocktail party, please leave it at home (most of it ends up on your teeth anyways).

Dark Nail Polish
Along with the lipstick, dark nail polish had been an epidemic on the women of New York. Everyone young and old has been wearing it, from dark burgundy to black, it’s sooo over. There are really great fun shades available at your nearest Ricky’s or the Nail Salon. So opt for a navy or shade of purple, try a coral or stick with a blood red (very classic), and there’s always French if you can’t decide, which will always be in style.

Leggings
I think we are all tired of leggings, they’ve lasted one season too long and should be retired. I don’t mind a fun pair under a cute mini but leggings instead of pants that are just a bit too see through are NOT a good way to stay trendy.

Menswear as Womenswear
Apparently, this is out for Spring. Personally very upsetting cuz I just bought the cutest oxford booties inspired by the trend. But the head to toe look is last season. For now, opt for one piece like a tailored blazer paired with a flirty skirt, or pleated pants with a ruffled top.

So hope this helps and states our over opinionated opinions!!!

Popularity: 17% [?]

Can someone explain to me the appeal of overalls. I used to have a pair back in the day that I wore religiously (of course this was back when I was living in Walden, a hick town which had live pigs in the grocery stores, no jk). My mother would but them on me so that I wouldn’t get dirty while rolling around in the mud so I guess they served some purpose.

Yesterday I saw some misguided fashionista walking the streets with a pair of overalls that reminded me of Laney Boggs from She’s All That. Her hair was tustled, her pants buckled tight and she was trying oh so desperately to rock stilletos. Did I miss something here or have overalls been deemed cool by the fashion god Marc Jacobs?

Popularity: 4% [?]

Here’s a recent piece of mines from The Daily at Trendible.com.

Alright so I think I’ve had my share of “designer exclusives”. They have been popping up everywhere. Cavalli at H&M, Alice Temperley for Target. It’s gotten to the point that everything needs to be “extra special” in order to be worthwhile, which seems ridiculous, I mean honestly how many of these things can they push on us before they become, well, un-special.

Case in point. The Erin Fetherston collection for Target. The CFDA nominee hit Target stores nationwide last month. Did anyone care? I just stopped by Target this weekend and saw rack after rack of Erin’s collection still waiting for desperate “exclusive” shoppers to pick them up. Even worse, the Alice Temperley collection which hit shelves months ago still are lingering in the clearance section. It seems that since Proenza Schouler the Go! International collection can’t seem to, um, go. This doesn’t seem to be the case at H&M though which seems to sell out collection after collection of big names designers that lend their talents to the retailing giant.

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Take for instance the recent Roberto Cavalli collection which flew in and out of H&M in under 15 minutes. You can still catch remnants of the collection on ebay selling at up to three times as much (which is really quite ridiculous since you can pick up actual Cavalli pieces on eBay for the same price. Don’t believe me? Cavalli for H&M Dress sold for $199 at H&M vs. the inspiration for the Cavalli for H&M Dress. Shockingly the original valued at $10,950 has a minimum bid less than the H&M knockoff).

Overall it seems these designer for hire are a hit an miss which doesn’t bode well for the future of independent fashion.

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P.S. Did you know that Uniqlo regularly welcomes capsule designers. Philip Lim, Alice Bittar and other locals have filled their shelves. Big surprise is that no one seems to hear about it and it’s hush hush on eBay. If you’re really looking for exclusives this might be the place to shop.

Popularity: 2% [?]

Dear Indies,

I’m going to sort of copy the Ask Daniel section and give you my opinion on a current style or trend; this week, suspenders. I just don’t get it?!? I was into the style when it first came out (and yes, there is a photo of me on the site from a few weeks ago wearing Nanette Lepore high waisted wide leg pants WITH suspenders) but the more I think about it now the more I don’t like it.

So we are not men, we don’t have pot bellies that our pants sit under and need support to be held up, so why do we need to wear suspenders? Daniel probably won’t agree with me since he loves the current “women dresses in menswear” look, but the suspenders have a solid purpose that they don’t fulfill on our womenly bodies.

Also, if you are like me, and are top heavy, the suspenders will not sit in the right place, like in this image where the suspenders sit to far to the side and accentuate the girls, unless that is something you want. When paired with high waisted pants, the look shortens your torso, and when paired with a mini skirt, you look like a private school brat on her first day to school. Ohh! And overalls (the cousin of the suspenders) don’t even get me started!

Ladies, how old are we? Do we want to look like we are back in grade school? There is not a single way that I can think of that would make overalls look chic and sophisticated, so unless you are a construction worker, please leave this look to the kiddies!

Sincerely,

Rebecca

Popularity: 2% [?]

I must have missed the memo, but it seems there has been a growing underground trend amongst underground designers, skip the model and wear the clothes. I’m not sure it the reason is cause of budgeting (I personally have never met a indie model who wasn’t willing to work for picts) or cause of self love, but I personally love it. My favorite example is in the case of the Mooka Kinney girls Rachel Antonoff and Alison Lewis, the recent Gen Art Fresh Faces, who pose in each of their picts for the past two seasons.

Another one to watch is Mandate of Heaven, the artist as designer meets vintage collection which enjoys a little self love. Guess the whole “Be your collection, wear your collection.” gossip I preached at Parsons actually made sense.

Popularity: 2% [?]

Members Only is coming back!!! “We are resurrecting one of the most famous brands in the world, because great brands never fade,” Arnold Simon from Members Only Licensing Group said to WWD. The resurection of the brand, which has already had a resurection amongst Williamsburgers and the Lower East Arties, may not be welcomed. It seems like everytime we see something as cool, it needs to make a “comeback” for Mainstream America. When the 80s style hit it’s peak two years ago (yes everyone, it’s already done. Please move on.) brands like Parasuco and Jordache suddenly came back to life, “resurrected” from their acid washed days. I have to agree with the writers at WeAreTheMarket.com, let Members Only die. We’ve already got our “vintage” pieces from Beacons Closet. We don’t need it back from the dead.

Popularity: 1% [?]

The Model. An Endangered Species?

I always admired Target’s ability to not “just be another Walmart” by unleashing concepts that supported the fashion community. Their Go International collections with designers such as Proenza Schouler, Patrick Robinson and Temperley have been huge successes which have fueled these young designers and taken them from lesser known names to super stardom. But now Target is pushing the envelope by eliminating a staple of fashion, the model. Model-less, set to premiere at Grand Central Terminal-Vanderbilt Hall on November 6th at 12PM, will be exactly what it’s named, a runway show without models in which holograms will be used to showcase the clothes.

The show will feature men’s, women’s, bridal and maternity collections from Bowie by Keanan Duffty for Target(R), Erin Fetherston(TM) for Target, Isaac Mizrahi for Target(R), Liz Lange for Target(R) and Mossimo for Target(TM) as well as jewelry, handbags and shoes from Dominique Cohen for Target(R) and HOLLYWOULD for Target(R). My opinion on this one is mixed. While the clothes should be the most important thing on the runway, do we really want a world without models? H&M played with this idea a few years ago, not out of inspiration, but instead as damage control when video of Cocaine Kate snorting a few lines of magic (career enhancing) powder surfaced on the internet. They abandoned all photos featuring Kate in their fall collection and opted for blank mannequins to push their wear & toss goodies. Now with Target pushing a bunch of pixelated holograms how long till other retailers and designers follow suit? And more importantly was the death of the “supermodel” just the preview of the death of the “working model”?

Personally, I miss the larger than life personalities that once dominated the runways, the one name wonders who were valued only for their beauty and occasionally for their strut. Hopefully Modelless isn’t a nail in the coffin for the supermodel, a final insult to a species of woman that was once above Hollywood, a woman that is sorely missed in a world of Paris Hilton’s and Britney Spears’.

Visit Trendible.com for more.Â

Popularity: 2% [?]

Look at this picture. Tell me what you see. If you say anything but a happy sunset then I’ll assume that you have serious daddy issues. I never wanted to be a psychologist but if I got the chance to be that would probably be my opener. The Rorschach blot has found it’s way off the couches of the quacks office and onto the runway. H.Fredricksson seems to be one designer on top of the trend with a collection sprinkled with enough symmetrical spotting to provide anyone with laundry list of “what do you see here” answers.

H.Fredricksson Square Neck Top ($330) and Baby Doll Dress ($352) pictured above.

Popularity: 1% [?]

I’ve been feeling this one for sometime. I knew I was on track when I started growing back my chest hairs and realized how amazing it is to just be a man. The age of the Metrosexual is nearing it’s end and the testosterone fueled manly man is coming back. Don’t believe me? Look at the signs.

Who has time to shave? I’m dating models.Â
Today’s Daily News (the manlier of papers) has announced the new “burst of menergy” which is hitting fashion, including masculine looks from typically androgynous label Dolce & Gabbana. In addition George Clooney, the perennially clean shaven GQ idol has grown a beard and was recently in a motorcycle accident (motorcycles=manly, vespas=not). Additional proof is shown on TV as shows like Desperate Housewives and Grey’s Anatomy are making room for shows like Cavemen, Mad Men, and Big Shots (all featuring “real” men/cavemen).

Did anyone ever figure out what the guy on the far right did?Â

Probably the most apparent sign that the trend is at it’s end is the farewell season of Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, the show that introduced a slew of metros-in-training to the joys of shopping, cooking and (heaven forbid) waxing. Look at the Fab Five now and you start to wonder if they really know what their talking about. Carson looks like he’s constantly vacationing on a beach in Belize (do you really enjoy wearing so many floral prints), while the others run around trying to figure out what contribution can they possibly offer that isn’t easily replaced by “a womans touch”.

Seems like men have finally figured out what they really want, to not have their sexuality questioned by women. And women have figured out what they really want, not to date a gay guy. Hopefully the trend continues and our gender roles become less confusing. Of course, this would be easier to say if women’s fashion trends didn’t recently take a nosedive, as menswear inspired pieces resurfaced on the runway. Guess the age of the “fe-man” has begun.

P.S. I’m not stressing that men give up dressing well and taking care of their bodies, I’m just saying to do it with your own “eye”.

Popularity: 2% [?]

Q: I see it all the time and it makes no sense, why do guys wear their pants so low that you can see their underwear?A: This is one of my biggest fashion peeves. I don’t get it. It makes no sense at all, looks horrible and is by far the most pressing issue in urban men’s fashion today. Here are a few reasons why I feel men do it…

1. They want you to know they can afford underwear.

2. They are on the DL (”on the down low” a.k.a “in the closet” for all those without a ghetto handbook handy) and want other men to know their asses are up for the taking.

3. They’re self-destructive and want to make it as easy as possible for cops to catch them. Running ain’t easy when your pants are so low.4. They have diarrhea and need quick access between their ass and the toilet seat.

5. They didn’t get the memo that Tupac is dead and took his style with him.

6. They are really self conscience about their weight and want to make sure that everyone knows they don’t have “junk in da trunk.”

7. The only clothing stores that accept food stamps are Big & Tall stores.

8. They are jealous of women who get to feel a cool breeze up their skirts on warm summer days. Why should they get all the fun? Whoo!! That was a quick blast of wind.

9. They’re are tired of women asking if they wear boxers or briefs.

10. They really, honestly, and fool heartedly think its cool. No joke. They seriously believe that. I know it’s ridiculous. But yes, they really do think they look like the streets version of Cary Grant or something.

Popularity: 7% [?]

Our prediction that the flapper look will be big for Fall must hold some weight because the folks at ShopBop.com agree with us.Conjure your inner 20’s goddess in the Sweetface Double Strap Sexy Dress by label, Sweetface. This mini dress is perfect for a classic night on the town.

Specs:
Silk, mini dress with medium-weight, jersey banding at bust, back, and straps. Keyhole back and pleating throughout. Balloon edge at bottom hem.

33″ long.
Body: 100% silk.
Trim: 58% acrylic, 26% nylon, 8% spandex, 8% wool.
Dry clean Only.
Imported.

Click here to get your hands on this Fall must-have dress!

Popularity: 2% [?]

The jury is in and the verdict is that the wide leg fit is definitely on it’s way back. Though the tide is turning when it comes to trendy jean fits, I feel compelled to hold on to my love for the skinny jean [and hold on to a style that doesn't make me look like a potato].

However, I do envy those that can pull off the wide leg look exquisitely. My thinking is, if you’re going to go wide, do it to the extreme. Which is why I’m absolutely enamored with Goldsign’s Scandal Super Wide Leg Jean. They’re a little bit retro and a lot sexy.

Specs:
Denim pant with flap pockets at front and tab detail at back. Snap closure at pockets and waist. Worn spots at edges. Extra-wide, flared leg.

7.5″ rise. 35″ inseam.
100% cotton.
Wash cold.
Made in the U.S.A.

Click here and slip into a pair of these!

Popularity: 2% [?]

Ahhh, New York City in the 80’s, New Wave, Danceteria, and neon colors everywhere. So gaudy and over the top, I wish I could’ve been there. But alas, I get trapped in the post “Sex in the City” era, where shoes cost more than a month’s rent and celebrity designers are a dime a dozen.

This of course all has a point. Patricia Field. The stylist who first introduced Miss Bradshaw to Mr.Manolo insists on hiring only the most fab fashionistas of the NYC nightlife set to work in her store. Die J Mars is one of these carefully selected club kids, responsible for making the dance floor what it is.

By day he tends to Patricia Field’s 302 Bowery flagship in wild ensembles of rock & roll couture. By night he’s spinning tunes on the turntables left and right at downtown’s hottest clubs, or performing in his band RISE with his sexy co-stars Shelly Ebner and Elaine Benavides. He’s basically the club scenes answer to Batman.

If you’re looking for style clues simply look at these electro pop music makers. Their unshakable resolve to push the boundaries of “what’s in” make them a prime target for flattery through imitation.
-Kristen May

Popularity: 2% [?]

I think it’s safe to say, the “It” Girl factor will never wear off . Artists will always need muses and young, career-free girls who play dress up in designer goods, Manolos and vintage are a tempting target. It makes sense (of course sometimes it doesn’t. Two Words. Paris Hilton.).

Before these girls can legally have a cocktail, followers all over the world are creating fan sites dedicated to them. They are stalked at clubs by groupies and wannabes. In one weird case someone had custom wallpaper with an “It” girls photo plastered all over their room. Some of these chick-a-dees create and participate in art, some attend amazing colleges and build a highly respectable education, while others endure in a star f*cking, trainwreck of a life, spending their time dropping names to Holly-weird nobodies at any event offering a photo-op???!!!

But fashion is surface at the end of the day, so head over to Angel Lust PR and vote for your fave “It” Girl on the rise in the poll section. We are featuring Cory Kennedy, Ponellie, and the alternative model Raquel Reed (aka bff to Jeffree Star).

Doe-eyed Cory Kennedy (at right) is one such “It” Girl, rising in internet popularity in the Cali club scene. In addition, the girl rights for alternative style bible Nylon and is a frequent target of nightlife photographer Cobra Snake. You can check out her blog which features a full stock of her hipster style. She’s probably best defined as the Chloe Sevigny of our generation. You know it’s true cause Vincent Gallo is all over her jailbait appeal.
In any case, the bad-girl, rehab, convict crew is running out of tabloid space and it’s about time. These mid-twenty socialites must feel threatened as it seems they are making a last ditch effort to befriend the up & comers. You better watch your backs indie “It” girls or Britney Spears will be calling you to babysit.

Fame can offer so much, but too much to soon will destroy you in the worst of ways. Just be smart and try to remain down to earth. Ah, who am I kidding. Work it girls, I would!!!

Click Here to Vote for your favorite “It” Girl.
-Kristen May, aka. educated in design. I believe that makes my opinion in fashion worthy.

Popularity: 3% [?]

I hope they have one in my avatar’s size!!!

Second Life and The Sims have become online phenoms with over 8 million users claiming avatars in Second Life and millions more contributing to The Sims virtual world. With such a captive audience it was only a matter of time before retailers and fashion brands jumped in to get a piece of the very real income this platform offers. Anyone with Photoshop can create a collection for this virtual world and sell them for any amount they want, making some extra money and spreading the word about their fashion line. But will virtual sales translate into real sales?

American Apparel, H&M, and Stella McCartney think so.

Stella even hosted a PETA protest in the digital world, which I personally feel is the laziest way to be an activist (second only to the union workers who hired homeless people to protest for them).

Read the JC Report’s full article on how the future of fashion may be more about pixels than reams of fabric…

Popularity: 2% [?]

This is a girl I met on MySpace on one of Linday Lohan’s (yes, I friended Lohan) many deleted accounts. She was at the top of the list and all the sudden she had 50 thousand friends. She is a MySpace phenomena whose style has gained her a touch of fame in the indie “it gal” sense.The designer of Mandate of Heaven discovered her online and before she knew it she was walking down their catwalk. I call her Pony and she is one of my many indie muses. She’s got it going on when it comes to style, the faux tiara combined with vintage says it all.

She is a fashionista genius. Pony has caught the eyes of many scenester and fashion photographers on nights out on the town and her photo will be splashed all over the blogosphere the next day. This little lolita is one of the most charming it girls on the rise you will ever meet. She’s Edie Segdwick minus the trust fund and disaster. She’s everywhere keep your eye out and watch what she’s wearing!

Popularity: 2% [?]

The slow disappearance of fashion illustration in the past decade has been unfortunate, especially for artistically minded individuals like myself. It is still around and new artists in the field are slowly staging a comeback. I personally doubt it will ever “fully” comeback, the increasing technology in our society has successfully duplicated some aspects of the craft. Also, there haven’t been any Sistine Chapels created in the past century. We don’t rely on such extremity in art any more with photograph available. So does this mean the eventual death of fashion art?

To the fashion illustrators out there, please don’t ever give up your craft, and please try your best to have your work published, or at least on a website. I will always give credit where credit is due.

Check my blog www.angellustpr.com for more on this artist now and in the future.

Popularity: 26% [?]

For the fall season, purple ruled the runway. A color that once signified royalty due to it’s high production cost (see, Fashion Indie teaches you things), the deep hued shade made appearances at a number of shows including that of indie hero, Zac Posen. Working well with shades of burgundy, gray and blacks adding this color to your wardrobe is as easy as finding the right accessory or dress. Just don’t over do it on the purple power, the last thing you want is for someone to confuse you for an over joyous dancing dinosaur.

Here are some prickly plum picks for punctuating your purple palette people…

1. What Comes Around Goes Around Jacky Satin Top

2. Kale Metallic Weyman Clutch

3. Moschino Cheap & Chic Open Toe Patent Kiltie

4. Shaoo Patent & Porcelain Necklace

5. Foley for Foley + Corinna Jersey Cocktail Dress

Popularity: 3% [?]

The Whitney Museum is currently featuring an exhibit dedicated to the sixties. They are calling it “The Summer of Love” ! Why not get in the spirit of things by dressing the part in one of a kind sun suits by designer Carissa Ackerman. Carissa’s line Mandate of Heaven line of 60’s influence sun suits. Carissa takes vintage clothing and remodels it into her very own creations combined with trims and notions she find all on her own. Her line is a big hit with Brooklyn girls and the local NYC rock and roll community. In fact one of her poster girls includes indie rock seductress Paige Wood . Stop by her hip store and and search for an original for yourself at 347 Grand Street Brooklyn, NY.

Brought to you by your friendly fashionista Blogger Kristen May Anastasia!!!

Popularity: 2% [?]

I like many of you I am addicted to reading about fashion on the internet. My favorite blog right now, aside from FashionIndie.com - the greatest blog known to man, is Papierdoll.net. One of the few sites I’d go to daily for a fashion fix, they’re usually on point when it comes to style trends. That is until a recent article on Wide Leg Denim. Indies do not be fooled by the onslaught of wide legs that are quickly making their way onto the marketplace looking for your cash. You worked too hard cutting calories to whittle down your tankles to fit into cigarette jeans. You did way too many reverse crunches to tighten your ass and look killer in staight legs. The wide leg jean is just a ploy for you to trade your still very stylish/professional/posh straight legs in for a pair of jeans that will make you look like a late 90’s reject. Just as bad as uncinched baby doll dresses, the wide leg jean will make you look like a fat ass cow who listens to way too much Kurt Cobain. I was once a fashion victim who fell prey to this look, rocking 24 inch wide Guess jeans in high school. For shame indies, for shame.

Probably the worse thing of all is that the trend is already mainstream. The Gap, after failing to capture the cool crowd with their skinny leg Williamsburg jeans, already has wide legs in productions for the fall season in various unattractive washes. Whether or not these are left overs from ten years ago remains to be seen, but all in all avoid wides like the plague.

If you do opt to do the wide leg thing, opt for wide leg pants (not jeans) in wool, cotton, or silk for the coming fall. These Alice + Olivia Front Pleat Wide Leg Pant are stylish without looking too trendy, too Gap, or too rejected 90’s. Paired of with a S.W.O.R.D Argenta Jacket it’s the perfect look for welcoming the fall.

Popularity: 3% [?]

With the temperatures creeping towards the high 90’s this week, I thought you’d like to take your mind off of the heat and think about the cool of the autumn that will enevitably grace us. So here is one fall look that might actually look good on you. Be brave folks. If fashion was meant for everyone they’d sell clothes at Walmart. [Real clothes, people, not that rejected sweatshop crap].

Turbans & Babushkas- I can’t say how much I love this look. Prada introduced the turban and Marc Jacobs the babushka but you can be sure a number of indies are working on their own versions of this must-have accessory. The best way to wear this look is to not over think it. Simplicity is key to a lot of fall looks, so pairing off the turban and babushka with a similar color scheme will most likely lead to it looking like a natural extension of your ensemble rather than a poor fashion choice.

Popularity: 2% [?]

Two Summers ago the we saw the attack of boho, last Summer short shorts made the scene, this Summer the dress is back. Nearly every designer is coming out with knee high and full length dresses this season, so be sure to pick one up. To do this look right, skip the 5 inch pumps and opt for a wedge or flats. Also remember that accessories are huge for the season. Gold, Silver and Bronze are huge this season as well so feel to add them on.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Patchwork dress, Anna Sui | 80’s style top, Topshop | Maxi dress, Marc by Marc Jacobs | Patchwork skirt, Ichi | Pink top, Pepe

I’ve had a sneakin’ suspicion about this trend for a while now, first seeing it on style starlet Lily Allen, then on the streets of Manhattan, and now finally Europe’s favorite trendster The Catwalk Queen announced what is undoubtingly becoming “the next big trend”. That’s right folks, DIY styled patchwork dresses and tops are flooding in with a style that is one part flee-market couture and one part Raggedy Anne chic.

What I’m loving about this look is how well it plays on multiple body shapes. The dresses being created in this style, like the long Marc Jacobs number above, drape well and seem to perfectly accent curvy girls by creating a natural waist and by placing more coordinating patterns towards the bottom of the dress. While this style seems very familiar (remember “gypsy dress syndrome” from Spring of three years ago) it isn’t a direct imitation of what has already been done. Instead this look seems to be directly influenced by the vintage reconstruction period that jump started the indie designer and DIY culture a few years back.

Patchwork Kaftan, S’nob | Blouson, Matthew Williamson| Summer mini dress, Tibi

What’s best of this indie trend is that it has already made it to the mainstream.
Yesterday dressbarn, or should I say “definitely not your mother’s” dressbarn, premiered some pieces that follow this patchwork trend to the letter, mixing alternating black and white prints to create a trendy piece of fashionable art.

Popularity: 1% [?]

Bright is the right way to go this season. Aside from the obvious statement they make about your confidence as a trendsetter, brights are perfect for welcoming Summer’s warm weather. When wearing brightly colored jeans, keep your accessories and the importance of matching colors with complimentary tops in mind. Check out our top 10 bright jean picks from designers like Citizens of Humanity, Rich & Skinny, and Joe’s Jeans.

1. Citizens of Humanity Paley Ankle Length Stretch Jean

2. Marc by Marc Jacobs Skinny Chrissie Jean

3. Seven Jeans Side Zip Joyce Jean

4. Radcliffe Denim NW1 Skinny Stretch Jean

5. Rich & Skinny Rich Boot Cut Jean

6. Kova & T Boot Cut Stretch Jean

7. Joe’s Jeans Chelsea Jean

8. Dittos The Classic Wide Leg Jean

9. James Jeans - Dry Aged Denim Original 5 Pocket Jean

10. Seven Jeans Belted Straight Leg Jean

Popularity: 6% [?]

I’m officially sick of this evil New York weather! Aside from being the universe’s super soaker target, I can’t deal with the gloominess of it all. To cheer myself up, and yourself if you live in NYC, I picked some lemon-drop fashion from Shopbop.com. They are perfect picks for bringing your own little bit of sunshine to the Big Apple.

1. Fragments Small Lucite Earrings

2. Lisa Curran Adjustable Halter & Shirred Brief Hipster Bikini

3. Alice + Olivia Paris Dress

4. Malini Murjani Billeyette Clutch

5. Madison Harding Open Toe Canvas Wedge

Popularity: 2% [?]