The Fashion Fund, created by the CFDA and Vogue to aid young and emerging designers, includes a mentorship program and a cash prize. Altuzarra took home $300,000 while runners-up Pamela Love of Pamela Love Jewelry and Shane Gabier and Chris Peters of Creatures of the Wind walked away with $100,000 each.

Those that went home empty-handed were Suno’s Erin Beatty and Max Osterweis; Carlos Campos; Antonio Azzuolo of A.A. Antonio Azzuolo; Carly Cushnie and Michelle Ochs of Cushnie et Ochs; Ohne Titel’s Alexa Adams and Flora Gill; Fenton/Fallon’s Dana Lorenz, and Soraya Silchenstedt of Finn Jewelry.

This year’s selection committee included Vogue’s editrix-in-chic Anna Wintour, CFDA prez Diane von Furstenberg and CEO Steven Kolb, Theory‘s Andrew Rosen, Coach‘s Reed Krakoff, J. Crew‘s Jenna Lyons, and past Fund winners — Proenza Schouler‘s Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez. [WWD]

Metallic bodycon dresses

Metallics are absolutely everywhere this season. From shoes to scarves and everything in between fashion has come over very futuristic. Shimmering silvers and golds, sequins and embellishment take your dress from drab to fab. Ramp it up even further with a bodycon dress; this will definitely get you noticed.

How to wear? 

Styling details to keep you on point can include one-shoulder straps, studding and embellishment as well as bust cups and contrasting metallic belts.  Keep the metallic trend going in your shoes and jewellery. Give the look a bit of an eighties vibe with wrist cuffs, black and gold envelope style clutch bags and chandelier earrings.

Lacy LBDs

The little black dress never fails to impress, but this season you need to spruce it up a little if you want to compete with all those shimmering metallic-clad ladies. The only way to do that this season is with lace, and plenty of it. Whether bodycon, shift, a-line or skater, lace adds a sultry, sexy touch to an otherwise average black dress.

How to wear? 

Lace on the arms, around the neck or layered over the dress are the most fashionable ways to work lace into your outfit, but don’t be afraid to break the mould with lace hemlines and cut-out detailing. Work the grunge trend and go for black from head to toe with colour-matching accessories.

Bright, bold, asymmetric dresses

The colour block trend from the summer is reinvented with richer, autumnal hues such as burgundy, plum, mustard and emerald green.

How to wear? 

A favourite style for these eye-catching dresses is asymmetric hemlines accompanied by one-shoulder detailing. Corsages, Grecian-style drapes and pleats all add glamour and style and give a nod to the disco fashions of the 1970s. Accessorise in contrasting colours and keep jewellery, shoes and jackets larger than life.

Hitler John Galliano

Why not dress like the most controversial man in 2011 news? Add a Hitler mustache and Nazi uniform to the mix and you’ll have the most ferociously offensive costume at the party.

Essential Supplies

Hitler..errr “Chaplin” Mustache

Swastika Armband

Crown

This labor day keep it casual and classy with neutra colors. Leave all the American flag swag for the douchebags. (And your 4th of July outfit for next year.)

Keep reading to find out what pieces you need to pack for 3 day weekend.

I’m not the only one who would live in this rainbow mountain of Givenchy Pandora bags. Celebrities like Reese Witherspoon, Kate Beckinsale and Hilary Duff are also huge fans.

We love this bag to death, but, unfortunately, won’t be buying one anytime soon. Check out page two for our “look for less” picks.

Ladylike Fall 2011 runways: Monique Lhuillier, Jason Wu and Nina Ricci

This outfit is inspired by a look that walked down the Dolce & Gabbana Mens Fall 2011 runway.

This look is super versatile. It can be taken from day to night with ease and trancends many scenes.

Keep reading to view the individual pieces.

VOGUE Fashion Night 2011 dans le monde (version… by VOGUEPARIS

Anna Wintour and her flock of the fabulous have meticulously the selected 10 designers (and design duos) in the running for the CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award. Last year, Billy Reid took the top prize of $300,000, a year of mentorship and a bronze trophy. The two runners-up Prabal Gurung and Eddie Borgo each took home $100,000 and a year of mentoring. This year, the judges are Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCollough of Proenza Schouler (who join the committee for the first time this year), Mark Holgate of Vogue, Jeffrey Kalinsky of Jeffrey and Nordstrom, Steven Kolb of the CFDA, Reed Krakoff of Coach, Jenna Lyons of J.Crew, Andrew Rosen of Theory, Diane von Furstenberg of the CFDA, and of course the Queen herself, Anna Wintour of Vogue.

See all the of nominees here:

A. A., Antonio Azzuolo

Photo: Fashionologie

Giving executive realness on her way through Heathrow in a Roland Mouret shift and Smythe blazer with a 2011 Mulberry Polly bag and Manolo Blahnik pumps.

1. American Flag Tee (Topman $44)

This is a pretty basic staple & perfect for the most casual of affairs.

Kate, it seems, is taking a page out of the Michelle Obama playbook by adhering to the rules of wardrobe diplomacy —  the practice, as The Financial Times‘ Vanessa Friedman explains it, “of a national leader (or leading representative) wearing clothes from the country they are visiting as a form of economic and cultural outreach.”

For her tour of Africa this week, the Fierce Lady has mixed and matched her Narciso Rodriguez and J. Crew staples with Nigerian-born designer Duro Olowu.

Meanwhile, DVF is a logical choice for Kate. Not only an iconic designer and president of the CFDA, the DVF wrap dress is the prototype for those damn Issa and Reiss dresses Kate can’t seem to get enough of.

I can’t wait to see what else Kate wears — especially since she’s picking out her own wardrobe like the down-to-earth princess she is. Personally I’m pulling for some other all-American designers  to cover that emaciated royal back of hers. Imagine, Princess Katherine in Alex Wang?  [Financial Times]

I’m Lauren, resident NYC dweller, crazed shopaholic and creator of my blog Diary of a Fashion Addict. My philosophy: There’s never a reason to pay retail! I’m constantly looking for a discount code to score those Zanotti’s on a budget. Want the “in” on these super hush hush NYC or online sample sales? Check in with me here, every Tuesday where I’ll be your guide to the best “Steals & Deals” coming your way. For more sales, style inspiration & savvy shopping tips, visit my blog DiaryofaFashionAddict.com.

Deal for a Day:

Fun, flirty and feminine dresses & separates to remind us why it’s kick-ass to be a girl. Catherine Malandrino on Gilt Groupe, June 14.

For an invite to Gilt Group, email Lauren@diaryofafashionaddict.com

Discount Code DL:

Amazing hand-selected art, apparel & accessories for Men and Women from top designers Acne, Vena Cava, Band of Outsiders and more… ie get these sick Alexander Wang Dakota lace-up booties (orig. $650) for $455 after the discount.

Use code “Luckybreaks5” for 30% off your order @ Tenoversix!

Sale on Sale:

Calypso St. Barth is the epitome of Bohemian Beach Chic. Check out their awesome online sample sale HERE, featuring already deeply discounted maxi dresses, lace skirts & out of this world prints. Use code “Samplesale” for an additional 50% off at checkout!

Real Life NYC Sample Sale:

Do you love that feeling you get when you put on some cheeky lingerie before a night on the town, but not dying to pay $$$$ for it?! For swimwear, sleepwear, and lots of sexy lingerie so naughty, you’ll want to take it off as soon as it’s on, head over to the La Perla sample sale asap!

La Perla Sample Sale:

When: 6/12-6/16

Where: 225 5^th Avenue, between 26 & 27^th.

M-W (9:30-6), Th (9:30-7)

The Male Sale:

Just in time to shop for Father’s Day…and you of course! Shop Men’s, Women’s and Kid’s up to 60% off at the annual J.Crew Sample Sale:

When: 6/14-6/18

Where: 260 5^th avenue (near 28^th street)

T-F (10-8), Su (10-4)

Bonus: The City Steal

A deal so good, we had to add it as this week’s bonus! Get up to 54% off salon services at legendary NYC salon Warren-Tricomi.

- One haircut & blowout for $91

- Three blowouts for $120

- Full head of highlights for $175

Warren-Tricomi Salon via Gilt City

**offer ends Friday 6/17 at 10am.

For even more Steals & Deals check Diary of a Fashion Addicit!

Right to Bare Arms

Either find some sleeveless numbers or go all Edward Scissorhands on some old jackets.

Summer Layering – Sleeveless by Les Fabian featuring a sleeveless cardigan

Leggings of the Fall

Slip a legging — or jegging or whatever the helll the kids are into these days — under those short-shorts.

Summer Layering – Leggings by Les Fabian featuring fringe shorts

Lighten Up

Try a light jacket, cardie, hoodie or sweater  in a fabric that breathes, like cotton, linen or silk.

Summer Layering – Light by Les Fabian featuring a stripe sweater

Put a Necklace on It

Heap on the accessories to add a layer of sophistication or plain ole whimsy.

Summer Layering – Accessories by Les Fabian featuring a chain necklace

The Long and Short of It

Mix up your proportions and lengths — if summer ain’t about a crop top, what is it about?

Summer Layering – Crop by Les Fabian featuring a studded jacket

Today is the first day of the season that I wore shorts to work so I decided to share a few pairs I have my eye on.

1. A summer basic which goes with nearly everything;  J.Crew $60

2. Why go to the beach when you can wear it?; Quiksilver $53

3. The ultimate chill pair; American Eagle $25

4. For the hippie inside us all;  Insight $50

5. Layering made simple & stylish; Gap $45

6. Two words: drop crotch; Topman $70

7. Distressed & designer all at the same time; Armani Exchange $40

If you have any questions/comments about this post, the knock off Jil Sander shorts I’m wearing or anything mens style: tweet me @mcarthurjoseph

[From left to right]

Vintage wicker will camouflage with the sand. Modcloth

Abstract pattern tote-it-all: Bluma Project

Retro florals slouch it cool: Nomad

Feed the children and your tan: American Eagle

Woven plastic squares the tote: Big Buddha

Hyper graphic brights on the beach: Firetrap

Beach Me Up speaks for itself: River Island

A cage for your goods.. wrap everything up: H&M

Render the hippie in you with a Baja Bag

Anchor your bag down with your towel: Billabong

Flowers and tie straps make it dainty: Peacocks

Geometric native, traded fairly: Aura Que

Take the farmer to the Hamtons: J. Crew

Now, pack up wisely like @iamsamlim.

Picture this: A regular 70 something degree  summer day. You’ve planned a great day of doing nothing besides walking around the city and random errands. A great stylish and casual outfit can consist of:  a J. Crew tee, Balenciaga cargo shorts, Levi’s plaid shirt (preferably open) Converse Hi-tops, and an A|X watch.

As the day comes to an end you realize that you have a few events and parties to go to in the evening. Instead of going in for a completely new outfit an appropriate amount of layering and accessorizes will completely change the look. Button up the shirt and add a skinny tie. Add more texture and prepare for a slightly chilly night by addding a leather jacket like this McQueen.

With just that your semi shelpy outfit has become fit enough to take on the night world by storm. Assuming that you’re going to some awesome event and not a black tie affair.

- With the Met Gala, the Fashion World’s Oscars only a few hours away, what better way to celebrate (especially if your invitation was lost in the mail like mine, I’m assuming, was), then to take a stroll down memory lane of the Costume Institute‘s patron saint, Anna Wintour‘s ball looks over the years. Time had the unmitigated gaul to name Vogue‘s editrix the worst-dressed of the year for her Chanel Couture from 2008′s Superheroes exhibit, but hopefully whoever had the cheek to write that is hanging by his/her nipples in a dungeon in France somewhere. Where they belong. [Fashionologie]

- J. Crew‘s new catalog features employees modeling their clothes, including openly gay designer “Somsack” and his boyfriend “Micah,” that for some reason is deemed “explicit.” Dear “Straight” World, the gays date and wear clothes. That is when we’re not secretly plotting against the moral fiber of America and recruiting your children to our degenerate way of life. Actually, you know what, we can do both since our people are natural multi-taskers. — Love, The Gays [Refinery29]

- New W Fashion and Style Director, Edward Enninful describes his vision for the mag as thus: “I want editorial to be filled with ideas. It’s very important to capture the mood of the collections and bring narrative onto the pages. It’s also very important to be forward-thinking but remain wearable. We should project what’s going to come, take from the past and bring something new, and document what’s around now.” That means practically nothing to me, but I’m hoping it will translate into tons of black models and couture out the wazoo. [Style File]

- Professional jailbird Lindsay Lohan still somehow manages to find work, this time giving face on the cover of Blank, photographed by Steven Gomillion and Dennis Leupold. I’m holding out hope for a jailhouse photoshoot during the four months she’ll be locked up. [DesignScene]

- Cool-kids-about-town and adorable design duo, Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez of Proenza Schouler are starting their own costume jewelry line, set to launch during the pre-collection season. I’m assuming this won’t be Claire’s-level bobbles but I wouldn’t mind a PS tribal beaded necklace bunch. [WWD]

- Red carpet favorite Marchesa is hopping into less formal territory with its one-off Playboy Bunny costume design for the new Playboy Club opening in London June 4th. Using the original iconic costume design, Georgina Chapman and co. added “Marchesa’s signature details, such as hand draping and embroidery.” I better not see a forty-foot train of tulle cascading from that bunny tail. [Vogue]

- Anna Wintour parachuted into the J. Crew store on Fifth Ave to celebrate CFDA winner Billy Reid and the two designers who subsequently ate his dust, Prabal Gurung and Eddie Borgo.  All three designed capsule collections for the Crew; Reid’s seven piece collection is available online now through May with Gurung’s premiering in June and Borgo’s in July. [Fashionista]

- Geez, they’ll let anyone teach at Columbia these days. James Franco will teach “Master Class: Editing James Franco… with James Franco.” I can’t wait til his students take to task re-editing Pineapple Express into a serious drama about drug addiction and gun violence. [Gawker]

- Halle Berry is ready to take her ex, Aussie hunk Gabriel Aubry, to court over custody of their daughter Nahla. How ready is she? So ready she dropped out of a Garry Marshall film. Remember him, the guy who did Pretty Woman and then nothing ever again? [Just Jared]

- Well, Berry’s loss is Katherine Heigl‘s gain. And everyone else’s loss. [Gawker]

- W claims that Kim’s “tearful” accusations of being “exploited” were unfounded as her editorial was meant to “document the career and power of Kim Kardashian as a work of art.”  All I have to say about that is the Mona Lisa never made a sex tape. [NY Mag]

- Speaking of sex tape, Indonesian singer Ariel was sentenced to 3 and 1/2 years for a sex tape that leaked with him and two women. I’d like to suggest we implement this rule here in the states. ASAP. [Gawker]

- J. Crew shareholder claim their $3 billion settlement is insufficient. In other news, Haiti is still happening. [NY Mag]

- Once upon a time, there was a prince named Lacroix who saved the beautiful princess from looking like a cheap starlet recovering from meth. And they all lived happily ever after. Until the prince declared bankruptcy and his atelier was closed. The End. [T Magazine]

If Sears were to buy J. Crew, I would shed a single tear. Surely the fashion gods would strike thunder down on Sears’ piggy bank before that happened.

Yet reports say both Sears and Urban Outfitters have been poking around J. Crew’s books to see the value proposition.

Urban Outfitters, now that might make sense. They have cool, original threads and legit fashion cred (even if they do house 30 penis jokebooks at any given store).

Can’t wait to hear how this story unfolds!

A look at NINE bags that are sure to add hair to your chest…

[Above: Prada]

At the core of man is raw, testosterone-filled power. A true man will throw a girly guy bag out his window like a World War II grenade.

Sturdy, leather and grip-worthy — here are nine bags that’ll help you return to your roots (beard roots).

[Louis Vuitton]

[Dior]

[Polo]

[Marc Jacobs]

[Gucci]

[Louis Vuitton]

[J. Crew]

[Hugo Boss]

Suede bottoms and cushioned footbeds make these slippers luxuriously comfortable while  cute bows and contrast piping make them presentable. You can buy them for $45.00 on sale ($29.99 in cream) in stores or online.

LINK LOVE: The Cut

Mo wore the couture confection for the taping of TNT‘s Christmas in Washington special airing Saturday night at 8 pm EST.

Jon Schneck, co-owner of New York Vintage (along with his wife Shannon Hoey) thinks that this might be “first time a First Lady has worn a vintage dress” and is “truly honored” that Mrs. Obama chose his store for her “first venture into vintage clothing.”

First, but apparently not the last. Schneck says that Mobama has scheduled other dresses from their archives, therefore we can expect a fervently renewed interest in vintage clothing. After all, whatever Michelle Obama wears has resounding effects in the fashion industry and in women’s personal lives.

I wouldn’t have even looked at a kitten heel two years ago, but then came the statuesque First Lady catwalking from Air Force One, wearing a Jason Wu dress and a J. Crew sweater set, an Isabel Toledo bag in one hand,  the world’s problems in the other, wearing a dainty 2-inch heel. And my mind. Was. Blown.

New York Vintage, in particular, will probably get some serious business as a result so get your classic couture now before everyone and their gay best friend invades their Chelsea store and strips them clean.

LINK LOVE: The Huffington Post

J.Crew Polka-dot Tights ($23), Kate Spade Oversized Dot Tights ($27), Madewell Swiss Dot Tights ($15)

Falke Ribbed Over-The-Heel Leggings ($64), Rick Owens Merino Wool Zig-Zag Footless Tights ($870),Forever 21 Ribbed Knit Tights ($7)

J.Crew Lace Tights ($23), Urban Outfitters Tuscan Floral Tights ($14), The Limited Lace Tights ($20)

Charlotte Ruse Teal Tights ($8), Falke Red Pepper Tights ($25) Anthropolgie Mustard Tights ($13),Free People Cobalt Tights ($12)

(Photo credit: fashionologie)

How do we feel about this do we like, or is it just an all around negative feel? LOOKBOOKS

Bitch, you better work.

Barack Obama and his first lady, M’Obama, made a diplomatic trip to India where they danced with some students. Mrs. Obama’s moves garnered her widespread acclaim and compliments. “Dancing Queen Rocks India” read the Times of India.

That doesn’t surprise me. When M’Obama and I used to go clubbing in 19-none-of-your-goddamn-business, we would step onto the dancefloor in our matching J. Crew sweater sets, belted naturally, and the crowd would part like the red sea. When the beat dropped, Michelle would immediately find the nearest pole and break out into a spread eagle.

Those kitten heels were made for dancing.

LINK LOVE: Gawker

Just because there’s torrential rain falling from the heavens doesn’t mean it’s not summer.  Check the humidity that just won’t give up.  There’s no way you can wear a trench and if you try a rain slicker you’ll be spending a good ten minutes peeling that thing from your skin once you get inside.  And let’s not forget about the foolishness of wearing rain boots.  So here’s a handy little guide on beating the heat (and humidity) while also staying reasonably dry.

As much of a pain in the ass as it is to carry an umbrella around, it’s totally necessary.  You can find a huge variety of cheapies around the city.  Go to Chinatown, Muji, Macy’s, Barneys, or Brooks Brothers, all with umbrellas ranging from $3 to $50.  By using an umbrella, you don’t have to drop a huge amount of coin on a windbreaker which–let’s face it–probably isn’t waterproof anyways.  And what rain does make it through?  It’ll feel damn good.For your top, wear a thin cotton button down.  A t-shirt is liable to get wet and stick to your body and when it dries, it’ll be wrinkled and unsightly.  Furthermore, t-shirts are extremely constricting in this weather.  You’re basically asking to get hot and sweaty (and not in the good, Al Green way).  You can leave the top few buttons undone and allow the shirt to breathe around you.  If a good breeze hits, it might even inflate the shirt and you’ll feel like you’re parachuting/Puff Daddy in that one Ma$e video.  That’s always a plus…if you’re particularly immature like I am.

Concerning your bottom?  Don’t wear pants, guys.  Most young men likely to frequent Fashion Indie probably also wear slim or skinny pants.  Your legs are the most likely part of you that will get wet.  If they do and you’re wearing pants, you’ll be extremely uncomfortable and it will take forever to dry.  If you’re wearing loose pants, you will still be extremely uncomfortable and probably look half-retarded.  Think about it–you’ll have your pants plastered to your shins while the rest droops off to the back.  Not a good look.

Go with a pair of shorts–preferably of a solid, darker color.  We don’t want the rain to soak through and show your privates off now, do we?

Now for the most daunting task of summer rainwear: the shoes.  You can always go the flip-flop route, but if you’re in a walking city, you might find it ‘icky’ or ‘eww-ie’ to leave your feet so exposed to the inevitable puddles you’ll have to traipse through.  If you can’t buck up, go for shoes that will dry fast, you won’t mind tossing, and that don’t look like you’re wearing them for those exact reasons.

Try going with plimsolls or the always reliable Vans and Chucks.  Or get your old-school Bruce Lee on with a pair of espadrilles which are being pushed hard this summer.  The shoes that make the most sense to wear, however, are some genuine boat shoes.  Seeing as they’re made to be worn on a boat, they should serve you well in rainy weather.

Finally, carry a tote.  A backpack’s going to extend too far out from the umbrella and get soaked, a messenger bag is just going to make things hotter.  A tote, however, stays close to your side, is of a quick-drying material, allows for a variety of patterns and styles for cheap and, most importantly, can hold a surprising amount of goods.

So there you have it.  How to stay cool in the summer without burning a hole in  your wallet, the rainy day edition.  A roundup of one suggested outfit culled from this article’s linked pieces below.

1. Navy and White Totes umbrella from Macy’s, $25

2. J. Crew Secret Wash lightweight point-collar poplin shirt, $59.50

3. Topman blue smart shorts, $50

4. United Bamboo Skull Tote, $50

5. Cole Haan Air Yacht Club boat shoes, $56.64

TITLE LOVE: McArthur Joseph

The reason that Akira is such a killer nominee for this Friday feature is that it’s probably the most detailed animated film ever made.  It literally puts anything Disney has ever done to shame.  Factor in that the movie takes place on such a massive scale (a re-imagining of post-World War III Tokyo) that there’s a helluva lot of detail.

Based on Ôtomo’s as of then yet-unfinished manga (it just gets nerdier and nerdier, doesn’t it?) the film starts off extremely strong focusing on a group of teenage reprobates and secret military experiments but soon loses its way.  Fortunately for those of us who like looking at beautiful things, however, it never loses its style.  So, with that, on to the outfits!

As stated above: super-macro.  The outfit that pops out most is the man in the yellow chinos.  It’s getting towards the end of pastel season (i.e. Spring is being burned to death) but it’s always a good/super-preppy look when someone gets all Nantucket on their own ass with a basic blue oxford and some colored slacks.  Then there’s Mr. Punk I and Mr. Punk II to the left with looks reminiscent of the most recent Balmain men’s collection.  Leather jackets with a little bit of prep mixed in (a button down and olive green slouch neck sweater).  Who knew cartoons could dress so damn well?

But Ôtomo can go super-micro too.  If you want to look like a teenage derelict/leader of a futuristic bike gang, here’s how you do it, from head to toe.  Check the fit on all the items: slightly oversized polo to let the cool breeze in, cropped just-slim-enough chinos, killer mid-top white sneaks.

Second from the left, and the guy all the way towards the right.  Neither of these characters plays a major role in the film.  In fact, the rightmost character might not even have a line.  Nevertheless, both of these guys have got it going on.  Hello Joe Strummer, and hello sweet shearling collar overcoat.  We’ll refrain from commenting on the cutoff graphic tee on the left.

The girls get in on the action too, of course.  From left to right, some real-world finds.  Honestly, this movie’s like a schizophrenic sketchbook come to life mixed with a lot of Mad Max, Max’s Kansas City, and, uh…Max Fischer.  It’s totally max, basically.

Check the gallery and see if you can match the following with their pictures.  It’s like one of those quizzes on children’s placemats at roadside diners.  Or, you know, don’t.  Whatever you do, pick up Akira (or watch it on YouTube).  Enjoy all the pretty pictures, pretend to soak up the philosophy and the Kubrick-ian 2001-style ending.  When else can you say you’re-a-learnin’ while watchin’ car-toons?

A. Burberry Prorsum Felted Military Coat

B. J. Crew Aldridge Suit

C. Marc Jacobs Gladiator Sandals

D. Mr. Hare Fitzgerald Shoe

E. Kitsuné Espadrille

F. Patrik Ervell Collegiate Jacket

Answers (pics numbered L-R): A-12, B-11, C-8, D-9, E-9, F-15

I die for the jacket with flares. The entire collection is also very cute.

View entire collection on Envy!

LINK LOVE: Style

LINK: Rumormongering: Will J.Crew Continue Its Winning Streak with an UES Wedding Store?

Add Your Own Stories on ENVY The Fashion Network

LINK: Our Top Ten Moments from J.Crew’s Fall Presentation

Add Your Own Stories on ENVY The Fashion Network

So glad I didn’t get up for this show this morning, looking at the photos this is probably on the same level of awful as the Lindsay Lohan/Ungaro collection. Do the Kardashian’s realize that we are in Fall, not Spring with their boring Old Navy worthy shorts (even in leather, which we saw last season) and J.Crew like tops. Besides denim and tee shirts, which came straight out of a Joyce Leslie store, there were equally bad dresses made for a twelve year old skank, or the likes of (again) Lohan. The only halfway decent, partly original piece was a leather corset worn over a plain jersey dress.

Entire collection here.
Thanks Cotourture for the pics.

Billy Reid, Richard Chai, Unis (designed by Eunice Lee), J.Crew’s Frank Muytjens, Caulfield Preparatory’s Vincent Flumiani and Doug and Ben Burkman of Burkman Brothers were all chosen by GQ’s Editor-in-Chief Jim Nelson and its Creative Director, Jim Moore.

The winner will be chosen next month by a panel of judges including GQ’s editors, the CFDA’s Steven Kolb and Italo Zucchelli, Calvin Klein’s menswear designer — all six nominees will be featured in GQ’s March issue.

Via Fashionista

Vogue is reporting that Alexa Chung has just signed contracts to design a collection for J.Crew’s Madewell. The first pieces from the collection will be available this September, and will be sold under the label Alexa Chung for Madewell.

LINK LOVE: Fashionologie

Tomorrow marks the start of the holiday shopping frenzy, while I’m hear to hopefully make your job a bit easier. When is comes to buying gifts for guys my biggest advice would be to keep it simple. Buying clothes is not easy, so I like to stick to small accessories and unique pieces that show thought went into them, but can’t really be messed up.

1. Ties: I know it seems cliche to buy a guy a tie for Christmas (or whatever holiday you celebrate), but every guy needs them, and if it’s a good one it makes a great impression. Take for example this great Band Of Outsiders tie, it’s certainly not cheap, and it is unique enough that it looks like you put thought into the purchase (available at Opening Ceremony; $140).

2. Fragrance: Most guys own and where more than one scent It keeps girls on their toes, and they are often worn for different seasons, occasions, etc. A well thought out fragrance is always a good purchase. Don’t pick a particularly strong scent though, even some of the manliest of men don’t like an overpowering fragrance. I’ve become a huge fan of the Jeremy Scott for Six Scents fragrance (available at Oak NYC; $85.00).

3. Scarf: Every is wearing them, and they are a very useful item if you’re in a cold area. Be careful though, because buying the wrong scarf can end up the same way as buying an ugly shirt for someone. Keep is simple. Buy a versitile color or pattern, and ake sure it goes well with more than just their usual coat. I’ve been a huge fan of the American Apparel circle scarf I just picked up, it makes it really easy to bunch up around your neck and it doesn’t unravel and fall off (available at American Apparel; $28).

4. Work Bag: Think what you want, but just like women and their purses, a man can’t have too many work bags. I use mine all day everyday, to the point where the strap just breaks off. Show you put some thought into it though. Buy a higher end bag that has a little personality like this Billykirk x Opening Ceremony bag, rather than some shitty canvas one from The Gap (available at Opening Ceremony; $365)

5. A Weekender: Not to be confused with the previous work bag, a weekender is for someone who’s on the move a lot. A weekend here and weekend there, never more than about 3 days, but they have enough stuff that some packing is involved. A weekender is a must! Make sure you have a good one too, these will last just about a life time. I love this bag by Property Of just because of it’s size. You can really fit a good amount of stuff into a bag like this, and still be able to carry it around easily (available at Blackbird; $345).

6. Sunglasses: I wear mine all year around. Like many of the other pieces I’ve show you so far you want to get a pair that are practical yet have a little fun in them. I wouldn’t recommend getting to crazy either, stick to buying black or tortoise they go with everything. I’m a huge fan of everything Super has been doing, I actually have a pair on my Christmas list (available at Super.com; $244)

7. Cool Gadget Accessories: Gifting really unique accessories for (in this case) the person’s iPhone can be a great gift. Be warned though, make sure that you are 100% positive it is cool before you buy it, you don’t want to turn into that weird aunt who buys you stupid accessory things. I love this AnOther x Colette x Gareth Pugh iPhone case. Not too many people will have it, and it scores major scene points (available at Opening Ceremony; $95).

8. Rings: I knwo what you’re thinking, rings? But yeah rings! I’ve found most men wear atleast one ring at all times (even if it’s not their wedding band), so being able to find a really cool masculine ring makes for a great gift. Iona and Digby do an amazing job using old hunting and fishing motifs for their jewelry which make them perfect for gifting (available at DigbyandIona.com; $180)

9. Jewelry: Keeping in line with the previous pick, gifting jewelry (even to guys) is always a solid choice. Pick something simple and cool, none of this stupid “Jesus Piece” crap from a street vendor in Chinatown. I love the “Tar” collection from Alex and Chloe. The items are simple, and the black tar look gives them that additional edge (available at AlexandChloe.com; $64)

10. Books: A good book is never a bad gift. I recommend giving the “What A Man Should Know” Volume 1 book to any guy out there. Not only is it funny, but it’s pretty true too (available at J-Crew; $20)

Sick of your standard J-Crew wardrobe but you like the style? Check out the new Margaret Howell collection for just that extra touch of class.

After seeing a ton of Essie’s bright nail polishes on J.Crew models for recent ad campaigns, the label has let loose some exciting news. The company is reportedly selling a select few of the Essie polishes in their stores! Stocking up for the fall, J. Crew is selling colors “One of Kind” and “Eternal Optimist”.

LINKAGE: Style

I am normally a big Steven Alan supporter, but I don’t know how I feel about this latest Fall collection. I love Steven for the colors that are usually used. The collections always seemed to be bright and unique no matter what the season was, but this Fall gets a bit dark and practical. The dullled down earthy palette has me thinking J Crew not Steven Alan.

Gallery: Steven Alan: Fall 2009 Collection

via Men’s Rag

It’s time to get cleaned up and classy with the new George McCracken Fall 2009 Collection. The collection is mostly plain solid pieces that are teamed with sharp jackets and sweaters. Looking to step up your J. Crew jammed wardrope? George McCracken is your man.

Gallery: George McCracken: Fall 2009 Collection

Courtesy of: The Fashionisto

Madewell, the store for J. Crew-lovin’ teens, has released some looks for Spring 2009.

They’re pretty, but nothing too earth-shattering. It’s mostly staple-oriented, basics like distressed jeans, shrunken blazers.  They work in some trends with a leather jacket and lots of fringe. 

GALLERY: Madewell Spring 2009 Lookbook.

Dunderdon has created yet another collection that seems to have one leg on the side of fashionable, and the other on the side of the everyday man. The collection plays with its pairing of fashionable accessories like a pocket square or skinny tie, with an everyday man type look of a khaki short or navy pant. The collection it’s self reminds me a lot of a J. Crew look, with a trendier color palette. Keep an eye out for this collection if you need those staple pieces for a casual Spring outting.

Thanks to Selectism for the images.

Another design trio managed to hit the nail on the head once again, as the team of Scott Barclay, David Hickman, and Nick Thomas managed to produce an amazing collection for their company Idol Radec. Moving into their third season of production Idol Radec has created their best yet. This Spring collection is the perfect blend of leisure and business, with just the right amount of trendy. Designed for the American man, Idol Radec is definitely for the man who enjoys a J. Crew or Ralph Lauren look, but doesn’t want to be a name brand sell out. This is also a good collection for the skinnier silhouetted male who isn’t juiced up on steroids, like the frat “bros” that some other main stream brands may market to. Since the company is so young their website is on the way, but they do include links to their Myspace page as well.

Thanks to The Fashionisto for the images.