Start with a color blocked dress. This well matched shift by Gucci is boxy with similarly proportioned stripes to the Rothko.

Mark Rothko untitled framed print,

LA stylist turned it out outside of BCBG, then again when I spotted her in long creme lace at GenArt. It took her 10 minutes to put this together. It's called being a professional -

The bug-eyed glasses may have snapped to my attention first, but settling into the sleeve contrast and pink pops, the look is evermore interesting. The look was inspired by the Japanese anime FLCL (pronounced foolie coolie), thus, somehow, the process was quick to put the look together.

A vision in orange neoprene and Christopher Kane via that fluid filled iPad case, AND the studded shoes, this guy says he wore the bottom layers to the gym this morning (a hoodie? we believe it) and threw the rest on in a matter of minutes.

Holding his girlfriend/co-blogger's Chanel purse in one hand, and his badass style in the other, this Italian and his stallion-like fur looks as chill as he does chic.

What a Joy to behold! It took this fashionably late writer literally 10 minutes to jump into her Jewel by Lisa dress and Mercury sunnies.

The former half of the Dee and Ricky design/blogging duo rolled out of bed and came in what he wore the night before. If it werqs, it works.

This dashing matching couple struck a chord, the veil taking it all a notch above. They allegedly "did not take long getting ready."

In Henry Hollands visor shades, neon strappies over black and a fur so faux it's made of shredded cotton, she deserves her blog-given title

After this trend scouter was styled by BCBG for their show in these shorts and shirt, it only took her 15 minutes to assemble the rest.

Her chain hits her chest while she's waiting for her friend's show. Longtime friend of designer Titania Inglis rocks a chain from back in the day with a crisp Risto jacket. And it took her exactly 1 hour and 6 minutes to get ready, shower and vitamins included.

The sight of his neckware made me gleefully giggle, wave in its general direction whispering YESSS. He smirked and told me that he makes them. So, in addition to the few minutes it took him to get dressed in the A.M., he put his time into the hard work to make the hardware -

In her mom's 90's Comme des Garçons velvet paper bag gauchos, she took 20 minutes in the morning to ready herself. That is after a week and a half of outfit prep. Refreshing honesty from the curating eye of the stunning new online boutique

This born and bred Brooklynite menswear blogger took 5 minutes to get his reds in order.

Spotted last night at the Tim Hamilton show at MILK, the green spotted shoes against the paid, somehow tied together with denim, fur and lace made for a texture extravaganza. And obviously, like all good fashion boys and girls, it took her just a few minutes to coordinate.

Color palette: Coral, all shades of tan, black, white, yellow
Statement Pieces: Fur leather jackets, ankle length chiffon slit dresses/skirts.

Makeup: Hair slicked back in a low side part ponytail, simple single winged eyeliner.
Front Row Name Drops: Nylon Magazine’s Faran Krentcil, Rumi Neely, Bryan Boy, E’s Scouted Dani Stahl, Elle magazine’s Joe Zee
Runway Music: Let’s Go All The Way- Citizens!

Blazers by Missoni
Boots by Steve Madden

Clockwise from top middle:

Placemats and a Titanic number of silverware get the table set right.

The class level instantly jumps an octave with hot homemade apple cider. Serve it from a spouted jug and suddenly you're a right Martha Stewart.

Use it for distributing hor d'oeuvres or toting drinks to guests; a serving tray makes it look like a real affair. These colors keep it bright and festive, but it's a pattern you can also use for your summertime BBQs, too. No Santa tray shall be wasted.

It's all about the ambiance. Keep the lights dim, the candles bright, and the candlesticks classy.

The weather is always the curveball for an event, and depending on your floor situation, you might not want people tromping in with sopping wet boots. But think of Carrie and her missing Manolos! You don't want to end your party indebted $600 in shoe damages to your friend whose heels went missing from the unceremonious shoe pile. Have a solid welcome mat and a cute towel by the door to take care of any messy (yet fabulous) shoes.

With a little bit of sparkle and a defined waist, get your hostess dress in the shiny little Susie Homemaker variety. An LBD with a built in necklace means no jewelry will swing in the soup.

Tomboy Girlfriend

Neil Moodie engineered the “tough pony” for the BCBG Max Azria show here in NY, but it was also seen at Rochas and Calvin Klein. This self-wrapped pony is easy to do yourself.

The Fashion for Action sale is going on at The Altman Building 135 West 18th Street, (between 6th and 7th avenues) from November 17-19th.

For our Uptown Chic/Downtown Sleek look today we are obsessing over these Reiss sequin trousers.  The perfect complement to both buttery smooth silks as well as rough & textured fabrics, their slim line and subtle sparkle make them a wardrobe essential.

Ruffian

VPL

Graeme Armour

Jeremy Laing

Richard Chai

Cushnie et Ochs

BCBG

Prabal Gurung

Color palette: Dusty lemon and lime over over bold red, cobalt and neutrals.
Mood: Sharp angles of soft silk and low slung hips set to Navajo prints, tennis pleats and sheer hoods, cut with a twenties vibe.
Statement Pieces: JLo-low cut, cut-out shouldered floor touching dress, with a near hem sheer inset and a native american, quasi-Missoni print.
Front Row Name Drops: Primetime took prime seating: Sophia Bush of One Tree Hill, Elisha Cuthbert of 24.
Gossip: @SophiaBush proclaims “my favorite collection of theirs for years!! Stunning.” http://say.ly/SHIGml
Runway Music: Beat boxing scat/pop up techno.

Birthday Wishlist, straight from the heart of Social Media Sara:

1. Jeffrey Campbell Brown Distressed Litas – Platform pumps for adventures to run around the city in.

2. Klimt ‘The Kiss‘ Blankbook – Safe keeping mixed abyss of inspiration, notes, poems, sketches… my life in dissolved in pages.

3. Louise Manna Body Chain – Necklace for the whole bod.

4. Lomography Diana + Dreamer Camera – Vintage inspired pics, drool-worthy mint color.

5. Nasty Gal Ink Velvet Turband – Everyone needs at least one good turban, why not make it velvet, mmmm.

6. Topshop Scallop Hem Suede Shorts – Staple for music fest filled summer.

7. BCBG Thalia Deep V-Neck Jumpsuit – More function than a dress, less fuss than pants.

8. Skull Candy brown Aviator Headphones – Never let the beat stop, Fashion Indie Mixtape 3, that is!

9. Karen Millen Tribal Print Clutch – Tiny bag of funk.

10. American Apparel Long Accordion-Pleat Skirt – I could twirl in this for days. [She's got good taste. I own this, too! Yes, twirling is delightful in such a skirt.]

Kind souls, friends of Sara, and intern sympathizers, send all gifts to the FashionIndie office. To inquire about size and/or general birthday merriment tweet @SaraNiezgoda.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

BCBGMaxAzria
BCBGMaxAzria is known for dressing the youthful, stylish and sometimes flashy woman. The same chic lady will love the brand’s watches, which are both elegant and extremely wearable. If you have the attitude and confidence that lands you in BCBG threads, you’ll love these timepieces as well.

From the VIP Glam collection, this rose gold plated watch features rhinestones, a mother of pearl face and white leather band. It’s perfect for the girl who needs a little bling in her everyday life.

How ideal for spring! From the Icon Voyage collection, this adorable green watch with flower print and snakeskin textured band will brighten your day with every glance. The gold plated case adds a luxe touch to the delightful design.

If a watch isn’t quite badass enough for you, this one will change your mind. From the Prism collection, gold and silver pyramid studs and a thick leather strap won’t cramp your style.

Kenneth Cole
If you have classic fashion sense but add an edgy, urban slant every now and then, Kenneth Cole has something for you. Its S/S 2011 watch collections use new technology and materials, turning the hands of the brand far into the future. If cosmopolitan chic is the vibe you’re going for, you will love these watches.

Can’t decide between a digital and analog watch? You don’t have to! This double watch is way to cool for words, displaying both the gears behind the automatic display and an easy-to-read digital screen with hour, minute and second spots.

Taxi cabs have touch screens and so do our cell phones, so what not snag a watch with the same advanced technology? This rose gold and silicone watch is both sporty and opulent with time, date, stopwatch, alarm and 32 city world timer touch screen functions.

Deciding between a black and brown watch can be frustrating, so why not go for the underrated and elegant navy blue? One of my favorites from the collection, it features a rose gold plated round case, transparent dial and gorgeous blue crocodile leather strap.

Breil
From one of the chicest Italian accessories brands comes the spring/summer 2011 watch collection. Breil captures the essence of today’s stylish European customer with classic materials and the highest level of quality and Italian design tradition. If you’re looking for a polished and chic time piece, this is the brand for you.

This automatic watch from the New Globe collection allows the wearer to see inside with an exposed-gear feature. A stainless steel case, mineral glass hands and genuine leather band makes it the perfect style for everyday wear.

The iconic Manta collection has some amazing new additions for spring, this blue bezel and stainless steel piece included. The timeless “diver” design is water resistant up to 10 ATM and features a safety lock. Utilitarian and sophisticated for the manly man.

Also from the Manta collection, this gorgeous women’s watch features a pearly, white patent leather strap and Swarovski crystals. Contemporary and glamorous, even the most refined, classic Italian lady would adore this piece.

D&G
The cool and contemporary side of Italian fashion comes through with these D&G watches. Young and fresh styles feature details like arcane logos, bright colors and tons of bling for accessories you won’t want to go without.

Casual, fun and perfect for summer, this fuchsia watch from the Hoop-La collection features a comfortable silicone band. The silver D&G logo is partly hidden in the strap connector, creating an artistic and mysterious edge to this energetic piece.

I almost fell over on my face when I saw this watch from the Medicine Man collection, I adore it so much. With both tons of color and that edgy, stainless steel bracelet, it is a perfect time piece for men and women on any occasion.

Small and elegant with just enough flash, this watch has a silver dial with rhinestones and white leather strap. From the feminine Flock collection, a hidden D&G logo is included in the band hardware for a little added mystique.

Freestyle
Thirty years after it became the go-to watch brand for surfers, Freestyle is branching out to fashion-forward, active individuals looking for performance timing accessories. Always supporting athletic independence and creative expression, these watches are waterproof up to 100 meters and perfect for those looking to equip themselves for spring/summer activities.

This most excellent watch from the Blush collection is a sporty breath of fresh air. The bright jelly color looks great both in and out of the water while an intricate face won’t let you get too lost in a day of summer fun.

The Hammerhead XS collection was developed out of demand for dive-style watches made to fit tiny wrists, but this accessory can be worn for any casual occasion. The sea foam/stainless steel combination gives this classic style and fashion-forward edge.

Surfers need bling too, right? This practical and chic watch from the Shark Bling collection features genuine crystal, a colored display and high gloss durable polyurethane strap.

I hope you have been getting into the watch trend as much as I have. Which of these spring styles is your favorite?

close-up of the workings of a wristwatch

Backstage after the show I got to meet Max Azria, I nearly died. I gushed to him how stunning the show was noted the square theme. I asked the only question I had time to squeeze out before he was whisked away: How does he think a woman wants to dress, the core philosophy that fuels BCBG:

“Women ultimately want to look cool. They want to look classy, and yes, chic.” – Max Azria

Simple as that. And he certainly knows how to oblige.

Runway Photos courtesy of Elle.com

Max Mara goes for a sleek and minimal look with their spring 2011 campaign starring Karolina Kurkova. Photographed by Mario Sorrenti, Karolina dons the label’s elegant pieces with slicked back hair by Luigi Morenu and a smoky eye by Aaron de Mey.

BAG FIGHT!!

Hmmm…

Does the BCBG bag on the left look familiar?

Though he has the conservative, steely eyed look of a lawyer-cum-news analyst, Dan Abrams really wants to be a Web mogul. And the past eight months have seen Abrams — NBC’s chief legal analyst and a former MSNBC host, most recently of “Verdict With Dan Abrams” — launch three online properties: Mediaite.com and GossipCop.com (which he cofounded) in July and geek-culture site Geekosystem.com in January. Now Abrams is expanding into the fashion space with a fashion news and all-things-style-related Web site called Styleite.com, set to go live March 15

LINK LOVE:Dan Abrams to Launch Style Site

CONTRIBUTE YOUR OWN STORY: JOIN ENVY

Perhaps we weren’t as intuitive this season, but did anyone else see Lanphear at any other shows? I’m worried.

We were sitting and discussing BCBG with the girls from iFashionNetwork, and decided that besides the random bursts of color at the show, the looks were sort of boring.

‘Maz Azria was inspired by a clean, modern approach for Fall 2010.  Gravitating towards a neutral tones infused with surprise POPS of neon yellow and blue.  Prints were geometric and kind of gave me an avatar-ish, galactic vibe.  The models wore white tights contrasting with the dark neutrals.  The silhouettes coming down the runway were linear with asymmetrical draping, transparent pleats.  The styles were belted, giving shape and a vision of cool, easy sophistication.’

Read more here.

More pics here.

If someone told me that BCBG designer, Max Azria, somehow survived thousands of blows to the head, I wouldn’t be terribly surprised. Anyone who decides to collaborate with Miley Cyrus is one of two things: Money hungry to the point that they will siphon celebrity status from a 16-year-old to make a Wal-Mart collaboration, slightly nicer than toilet paper -OR- mentally deranged. I’ll take the latter. 

Just in time for back-to-school, Azria’s and Cyrus’ collection will hit the Wal-Mart shelves, tantalizing tweens and causing their parents to waste more money on Cyrus paraphernalia. The majority of the collection, consisting of tops, pants, graphic tees and shoes, will sell for about $20 or less…is this really something you’d want your name tied to?

Wasn’t Cyrus’ peak last year? I feel like kids are more interested in The Jonas Brothers than that “she’s so yesterday” Hannah Montana. Maybe it’s just me, but I won’t be surprised if many pieces from this collection sat on the shelves. 

Thanks Pop Crunch! 

This rough cut documentary gets up-close and personal with Lubov Azria, Max’s wife, as she heads to New York to prepare for three major fashion shows: BCBG, Max Azria and Herve Leger.

She discusses the importance of celebrities wearing their clothes and delves into the major differences between the three brands. It’s interesting to see how six months of work culminates in ten minutes on a runway.

LINKAGE: Fashionista

Kendra Spears for the Akiabara Ad Campaign.

Kendra Spears in Trovata S/S 2009.

Kendra Spears for Ford Models contest.

Like any sane person, I deleted my Myspace account once I realized that I wasted at least four hours each day changing my layout design, took pathetic photos specifically for new Myspace defaults and stalked my ex-boyfriend to see who he was macking on that week. Now granted, I’ve been Myspace sober for over three years (thanks to Facebook. damnit) but Kendra Spears, the new face all over the runways, owes her whole aspiring career to Myspace. 

Say sayonara to the typical college co-ed and hello to the winner of Ford Models’ Myspace.com contest! So she didn’t win the $100,000 contract with Ford Models, but who can complain walking for Gucci, Hermès, and Valentino in Paris and Milan? Recently the 20 year old Portland State University student has been working on shoots for Dazed and Confused, Italian Marie Claire and an upcoming BCBG ad campaign. 

Anyone else wondering why Kendra Spears didn’t wind up in New York Fashion Week last month? Well, according to bookers, they aren’t too keen on Spears’ Cindy Crawford lip mole. Well too bad for us here in the States, it looks like European bookers know a pretty face, mole or no mole, when they see one! 

Thanks NY Mag!

There are few advertisements I can call energizing. I did not expect to see something like this from BCBG, but photographer Patrick Demarchelier did a beautiful job with the fall ’08 campaign. I love that the models in focus are perfectly still, and the background appears to be speeding by. The clothes are looking fab as well!