FashionIndie » vivienne westwood

Lick This: Stamps Celebrate 60 Years of British Fashion

Amanda Gabriele — Fri, 25 May 2012 15:45:33 +0000

LOOKBOOKS editor-in-chief Cator Sparks came across these incredible images of our favorite UK designers, and we simply had to share the love. See it all after the jump.

From The Style Examiner:

London-based graphic designers Johnson Banks have worked with fashion photographer Sølve Sundsbø to produce a range of 10 stamps that portray 60 years of British fashion.

Live models (as opposed to static fashion mannequins) were used to embody the silhouettes of the various fashion eras and fit perfectly into the surviving existing garments. Following the shoot, the features of the models and background were erased from the images in order to focus the viewer’s gaze upon each of the British fashion designs.

The stamps feature the work produced by fashion designers in the 1940s (Hardy Amies), 1950s (Norman Hartnell), 1960s (from the boutique Granny Takes a Trip and designers Ossie Clark and Tommy Nutter), 1970s (Jean Muir), 1980s (Zandra Rhodes), 1990s (Vivienne Westwood) and the first decade of the twenty-first century (Alexander McQueen and Paul Smith).

Enjoy. And if any of our British readers obtain some of these beauties, send us a post card! See the original story at LOOKBOOKS.com.

DESIGNER DAILY: Yang Du

Jessica Lapidos — Thu, 24 May 2012 18:07:28 +0000

It’s a jungle out there. And they just don’t make cartoons like they used to. These are two of the worldly issues addressed by surrealist artist-turned-designer Yang Du.

Upon graduating from Central Saint Martins she worked for John Galliano and Vivienne Westwood, then turned her attention to the comically graphic animals that parade through her collections, crawl up backpacks, and punch a poncho. The Fall 2012 adventure starts here.

Cannes Red Carpet Trend: Putting on the Ritz

Amanda Gabriele — Mon, 21 May 2012 13:25:42 +0000

We are well into the fifth day of Cannes Film Festival 2012, and the red carpet is alive with celebrities in couture. So far, we’ve seen the black ball gown make numerous appearances at premieres and parties, an elegant choice for the French festival. Now it’s time for these style stars to put on the ritz. Sequins and beading have been trending on the Cannes red carpet these last fews days, and you know we can’t resist a diva in sparkles. From the parties to the premieres, it’s all about the glitz and the glamour.

Diane Kruger in Vivienne Westwood

Jada Pinkett Smith in Emilio Pucci

Gemma Arterton in Gucci

Jessica Chastain in Gucci

Jane Fonda in Roberto Cavalli

Naomi Watts in Gucci

Jada Pinkett Smith in Atelier Versace

Salma Hayek in Gucci

Jane Fonda in Atelier Versace

Salma Hayek in Gucci

Paz Vega in Giorgio Armani

Fan Bingbing in Elie Saab

Penis Talk, High-Fashion Crowns Fit for a Queen and Lady Gaga Forced to Cancel Concert Over Outfits

Lester Brathwaite — Tue, 15 May 2012 20:34:02 +0000

- This is the cover of Azealia Banks‘ upcoming EP, 1991. [Styleite]

- Kidult has responded to the $689 Marc Jacobs T shirt bearing his handiwork by releasing a “Not Art by Kidult” T for 6.89 Euros. [High Snobiety]

- Harrods is celebrating Queen Elizabeth‘s Diamond Jubilee with 31 redesigns of the St. Edwards Crown — what she wore to her coronation in 1953 — by the likes of Mulberry, Lanvin, Valentino, Bulgari and Tiffany’s. [Fashionista]

Mulberry

- Joining Harrods in toasting the Queen is Vivienne Westwood, who’s designing a special collection, and Nicholas Kirkwood, who will be offering a limited edition pump covered in Swarovski crystals. Don’t expect the Duchess of Cambridge to wear them, though. [Vogue.fr]

- Someone has cursed the world with penis leggings, that is, leggings featuring tiny penises (penii?). Not leggings for your penis. [Jezebel]

- Speaking of fancy penii, Buzzfeed editor Gavon detailed his pejazzling journey. I know what you’re thinking, “Finally, all of my pejazzling questions answered!” [Buzzfeed]

- Lady Gaga was forced to cancel her sold out concert in Indonesia after a group of Muslim extremists took umbrage with her sexy outfits and threatened to use physical force to prevent her from performing. [The Cut]

Vogue’s Olympic June Cover, Put Your Tongue on a McQueen and Glow by JLo Celebrates 10 Years

Lester Brathwaite — Mon, 14 May 2012 20:35:12 +0000

- The CW has officially picked up The Carrie Diaries, thus ensuring you’ll get your fill of cheap puns and over-the-top fashion come fall. [Deadline]

- Chanel staged its 2012 Cruise collection at the Palace at Versailles with guests Tilda Swinton, Haider Ackermann and Karl Lagerfeld‘s plaid vest. [Grazia]

- Olympian hotties Hope Solo, Ryan Lochte and Serena Williams grace the June issue of Vogue. [Styleite]

- Aquascutum‘s out of the woods for now and is celebrating with a new CEO in Tim Dally. [Vogue UK]

- The UK’s Royal Mail has come out with some sartorial stamps celebrating post-war British fashion with postage bearing designs by Alexander McQueen, Vivienne Westwood and Zandra Rhodes. [Style File]

- Jessica Simpson is wasting no time cashing in on little Maxwell Drew with a maternity line in the works. [The Cut]

- Coty celebrated the 10 year anniversary of Jennifer Lopez ‘s signature fragrance, “Glow,” one of the most successful scents in history with almost $2 billion in sales — or in other terms, more than all of her movies have grossed put together…multiplied by a million. [WWD]

- Isabeli Fontana will walk down the aisle for the third time when she weds Lauryn Hill‘s baby daddy, i.e. Rohan Marley in Ethiopia at some point in time. [Modelinia]

- This is Daphne Guinness singing Jefferson Airplane‘s “White Rabbit.” Just ’cause. [Paper]

Got the Rolly on My Arm and I’m Pouring Chandon: A History of Labels in Lyrics

Lester Brathwaite — Mon, 14 May 2012 14:17:50 +0000

It seems like you can’t turn on the radio, or more realistically open up your Pandora, without hearing some serious name-dropping in your favorite tunes. But label-whoring in lyrics goes way back in the day before Kanye West was the Louis Vuitton Don and Gwen Stefani‘s Harajuku-mania.

Eartha Kitt - "Santa Baby" (1953) Lyric: “Come and trim my Christmas tree/With some decorations bought at Tiffany’s.”

Sister Sledge - "He's the Greatest Dancer" (1979) Lyric: "He wears the finest clothes/ The best designers heaven knows/ Ooh, from his head down to his toes/ Halston, Gucci, Fiorucci/ He looks like a still/ That man is dressed to kill."

Klymaxx - "Meeting in the Ladies Room" (1985) Lyric: (Spoken Intro) "I had to leave my condo to come to this/ Well I'm back/ But this time I'm with my man/ And these women are puttin' their hands all over his Yamamoto Kansai sweater that I bought/ And I'm much, much unhappy about that/ I'd hate to come down to their level and become a BW/ A basic woman/ But if they don't stop/ It's gonna get SCANDALOUS."

Run-D.M.C. - "My Adidas" (1986) Lyric: "NOOOOOOOW/ Me and my Adidas do the illest things/ We like to stomp out pimps with diamond rings."

The Notorious B.I.G. - "Hypnotize" (1997) Lyric: "I put hoes in NY onto DKNY/ Miami, D.C. prefer Versace/All Philly hoes, dough and Moschino/ Every cutie wit a booty bought a Coogi."

Lil' Kim - "Crush on You (Remix)" (1997) Lyric: "You got to hit me off/ Buy this girl gifts of course/ So I look slick in my 6 with my Christian Lacroix (pronounced Lacross)

Jay-Z - "I Just Wanna Love U (Give It to Me)" (2000) Lyric: "What do you say me, you and your Chloe glasses/ Go somewhere private where we can discuss fashion/ Like Prada blouse/ Gucci bra/ Filth Mart jeans/ Take that off."

Gwen Stefani - "Rich Girl" (2004) Lyric: "Think what that money could bring/ I’d buy everything/ Clean out Vivienne Westwood/ In my Galliano gown."

Beyoncé - "Upgrade U" (2006) Lyric: Audemars Piguet watch/ Dimples in ya necktie/ Hermès briefcase/ Cartier top clips/ Silk-lined blazers/ Diamond-creamed facials/ VVS cuff links/ Six-star pent suites."

Vampire Weekend - "Cape Cod Kwassa Kwassa" (2008) Lyric: "As a young girl/ Louis Vuitton/ With your mother/ On the sandy lawn"..."Can you stay up/ To see the dawn/ In the colors/ Of Benetton."

Kanye West - "Niggas in Paris" (2011) Lyric: "What's Gucci my nigga?/ What's Louis my killa?/ What's drugs my deala?/ What's that jacket Margiela?"

Lady Gaga - "Fashion of His Love" (2011) Lyric: "You know that I'd never cheat on a man/ 'Cause I'm not like that/ I'm physically crafted to be/ As fitting as McQueen." Add your favorite fashion lyrics in the comments below!

Fashion History: Vivienne Westwood Inspired one of Punk’s First Feminist Anthems, “Oh Bondage! Up Yours!”

Jessica Lapidos — Thu, 03 May 2012 17:41:27 +0000

In 1976, year before Sid Vicious joined the Sex Pistols, an angsty musician in braces and leather dresses by the name of Poly Styrene started her own punk revolution in London’s Chelsea art scene. With her band, garnered by an ad she placed looking for “Young punx who want to stick it together,” X Ray Spex landed a weekly gig at Man in the Moon theater, right next door to Vivienne Westwood‘s store, then named Seditionaries. Years later, Poly lets out that their most famous song, her feminist cry, “Oh Bondage! Up Yours!” was inspired by Vivienne Westwood and Malcolm McLaren’s bondage pants.

Now a part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art collection, Vivienne Westwood and Malcom McLaren spurred the thoughts of revolution, earning a forceful voice and sound to their message.

Olympic Torch Beats Out Royal Wedding Dress, Savage Beauty for Design of the Year

Lester Brathwaite — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 11:47:48 +0000

Well, you can’t win ‘em all. Sarah Burton‘s wedding dress for the Duchess of Cambridge and Alexander McQueen‘s Savage Beauty exhibit had to take a backseat at the 2012 Design of the Year Awards as The Olympic Torch burned down the competition to take home the top prize.

The Olympic Torch, designed by the team of Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby, is made of aluminum with 8,000 perforated holes representing each of its carriers as it makes its way to London for the July 27 opening ceremony.

“Nothing is harder to get right* than designing for the Olympics,” said Design Museum director Deyan Sudjic. “The lightness and simplicity of Barber Osgerby’s Olympic Torch does just that.”

There were a total of 89 nominees in seven categories: Architecture, Digital, Fashion, Furniture, Graphics, Product and Transport.

The winner of the Fashion category was Issey Miyake‘s origami-inspired 132 5 Eco-Fashion collection, beating out these top contenders:

McQueen Met exhibit
Mary Katrantzou‘s fall 2011 collection
the Royal wedding dress
Gareth Pugh‘s spring 2012 collection film
the Late Night Chameleon Café store
Céline‘s fall 2011 collection
Melissa + Gaetano Pesce Boot and Flip Flop
Vivienne Westwood‘s Ethical Fashion Africa collection
the Oratory Jacket by Brompton Bicylce Ltd
Suno‘s spring 2011 collection

That Issey Miyake collection is pretty badass — you should really check out that video link, or if you have ADD like I do, this much shorter one — so I can understand how Kate’s gown and even Savage Beauty could pale in comparison. I don’t accept it, but I understand it.

For a full list of the winners click here.

*Tell that to Sarah. At least Barber and Osgerby didn’t have to lie to Anna Wintour‘s face.

Art by Design: Marc Chagall Inspires Birthday Look

Jessica Lapidos — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 14:16:14 +0000

Picasso once said of Marc Chagall, ”When Matisse dies, Chagall will be the only painter left who understands what color really is.” His impeccable color palette, along with the style of the times (1915) laid ground for today’s look. This painting is aptly titled Birthday (for today is mine) and makes me yearn for deep reds and florals.

This robe like silk Kimono wears well as a flowing summer weight jacket.

Update the scalloped collar with this light angular necklace.

Hit it long and red, matching the hue of the room.

With lovers past floating above and around you, the 6-inch brim will help you shield an eye.

Like the bouquet in her hand and the cloth on the table, this shirt gives the look a happy twist.

A floral bandeau in light blue brings cheer.

Twirl down to the toes in shoes that match the whimsy.

Like the colors of the paisley in the pillow, this bucket bag picks up all the hues and carries it together.

Art by Design: Picasso Inspires Marni & Vivienne Westwood

Jessica Lapidos — Thu, 29 Mar 2012 13:28:08 +0000

After a period of somber (and cheap) blue, Pablo Picasso broke out of his depression and into his Rose Period. ‘Twas a time of harlequins and acrobats, Parisian nightlife and a deep cheerfulness. The palette is a burning red, with yellow-orange accents and black and bronze undertones. Picasso’s two-year red phase started in 1904; get inspired by the turn of the century look.

Getting dressed with a painting in mind is a cool challenge. And it will ensure your color palette is artfully mastered. See how Picasso got interpreted sartorially here.

Start with a spring-weight full-sleeve fiery-red jacket.

Keep it in the family of colors that carried through Picasso's Rose Period.

Though it is hard to pull off, this tall bucket hat give the look a jaunty tilt.

With the principles of cubism at work, this ring ties in the hues and the angular repeat.

With a mary jane strap and open foot, the shoe appears to be seen from many angles at once, the art Picasso perfected.

Tie the look together with a silk scarf, if only for the precious white space.

Killer Platforms: Short Film on Shoes in the 70s

Jessica Lapidos — Fri, 23 Mar 2012 16:30:32 +0000

What with the advent of Jeffrey Campbell, the platform generating machine, we hardly bat an eyelash at the prospect of wearing what some (read: old people) referred to in the 70s as “ankle-breakers.” But in the day, sky high chunky platforms were newsworthy media shakers, and semi-plausible reason for medical concern. With the likes of these vintage Vivienne Westwood ten-inchers, Elton John, David Bowie, The Who, and the chic London scene spread the trend right around. So what did the people of England think of them come 1977? Watch the doc, and see how the fairest of them all cannot be deterred.

[Dangerous Minds]

Vivienne Westwood, Gareth Pugh and Jason Wu Go Plastic

Jessica Lapidos — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 23:49:53 +0000

In a sleek store that feels like Calvin Klein went to a festival (think stark white with a glow stick explosion), sits a display of plastic. Plastic molded into shoes. Shoes by some of our favorite designers of all time. Gareth Pugh, Jason Wu and Vivienne Westwood are some of the latest designers to team up with Melissa to create a line of shoes that embody their aesthetic at a price point we mere mortals can afford. Melissa has been jellying shoes in Brazil since 1979, and just opened their first U.S. store in SoHo three weeks ago. We took a look around at the baller collabs and the trippy vibes that reverberate within the shop.

The downstairs floor imagery is constantly moving. As is the back wall. It's fluid, kind of like the capabilities of plastic. Oh, and they're also 100% recyclable, in case you were wondering. Read on to see the collaborations up close.

You can get Gareth Pugh on your tootsies for $105! It's really got his DNA in every aspect of the shoe. He told their in-store magazine Plastic, "I don't collaborate a great deal with other brands, so whatever I do with this needs to be done in a way that I am 100% happy with the product before it goes out." On the chosen print: "The print of the sandal is very characteristic of my work. It emerged from a drawing that I did as soon as I left college and since then it changes a little bit every season. It is a historical print in my career."

Jason Wu set out to make something very characteristically him, and also Melissa at the same time. "It's a pleasure for me to work with plastic in such an innovative way. It is a very modern material present in our daily lives and the possibility of making it more fashionable is very interesting."

"It is amazing what Melissa can do with plastic. Each shoe has a character and tells a story." - Vivienne Westwood

Dita Von Teese snatched all three of these line-backed peep-toe wedges on her Melissa visit.

You can't buy Melissa online, only in the store. Let yourself be Wu-ed into the store. Or go to one of the more than 700 stores worldwide that carry them. Galleria Melissa 102 Greene St New York, NY But you can check out the shoes pre-visit.

Viv Westwood Thinks You’re Ugly, Top Model Thinks It’s British and Stella McC Thinks She’s an Episode of “Glee”

Lester Brathwaite — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 22:28:04 +0000

- ”People have never looked so ugly… We are so conformist, nobody is thinking. I’m a fashion designer and people think ‘what do I know?’ but I’m talking about all this disposable crap. So I’m saying buy less, choose well, make it last.” — delightful harridan Vivienne Westwood. [Guardian]

- Speaking of delightful harridans, these paper dolls of Dame Maggie Smith‘s sublime Dowager Countess from Downton Abbey are everything. Ever. [Vulture]

- America’s Next Top Model is still happening. Now in its 18th cycle, this time around it’s a “British Invasion” with seven British models versus seven American models. Sort of like a 21st century Revolutionary War with bikinis and smizing. [The Cut]

- Proving once again that you indeed have to pay the cost to be the boss, Britney Spears had to pay an undisclosed amount to Brand Sense for cutting them out on a secret deal she had with Elizabeth Arden. [ONTD!]

- The Marni for H&M lookbook, y’all. [Fashionologie]

- Stella McCartney staged a magic show and a flash mob during her elegant dinner party with a little help from her friends Shalom Harlow, Alexa Chung, Amber Valletta and Yasmin Le Bon. Kate Moss was there but she didn’t do shit except throw shade at everyone. [Styleite]

- And finally, Whitney Houston was laid to rest this weekend and I think this serves as a very fitting tribute.

The Royal Wedding Dress, Olympic Torch and McQueen’s Savage Beauty Vie for Design of the Year Award

Lester Brathwaite — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 12:48:42 +0000

The Design Museum has nominated the Duchess of Cambridge’s Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen royal wedding dress for its Design of the Year award, along with the 2012 Olympic torch and the Metropolitan Museum of Art‘s Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty exhibit.

A panel of experts will choose the Design of the Year as well as the top designs in six categories including Fashion, Architecture, Furniture and Graphics. In the Fashion Design category, Mary Katrantzou and Céline‘s fall 2011 collections will compete against Vivienne Westwood‘s Ethical Fashion Africa collection, and the collaboration between shoe company Melissa with Italian architect Gaetano Pesce. The winners will be announced April 24 at an awards night at the Museum. [Vogue UK]

INDIE REWIND: Character Study — Fran Fine

Lester Brathwaite — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 19:00:46 +0000

She was working in a bridal shop in Flushing, Queens. When her boyfriend kicked her out in what can only be described as one of those crushing scenes. So over the bridge from Flushing to the Sheffield’s door. She was just there to sell some makeup, but the father…oh, he saw more. Because she had style! She had flair! And she was there, that’s why she became the subject of today’s class. Though she might be better known as The Nanny, Fran Fine never looked domestic.

Key Pieces: Mini skirts, bold prints, leopard anything/everything, skirtsuits, body-con dresses, tights, the occasional statement evening gown for when Mr. Sheffield lets her out of the house and, of course, tons and tons of hairspray.

Designers to Wear: Vivienne Westwood, Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Betsey Johnson

Defining Fashion Moment: Whenever Mr. Sheffield had any sort of high-brow event at the manse, Fran would finagle her way into the party with a show-stopping entrance atop the staircase, which she would then descend dramatically like the drag queen she is. However, any serious discussion of Fran’s style would be incomplete without mention of her equally fabulous mother Sylvia Fine and gold-lamé-loving grandmother Yetta. The apple doesn’t fall far from the heavily-sequined tree.

Muppets Take The Runway!

Jessica Lapidos — Thu, 17 Nov 2011 18:29:27 +0000

Miss Piggy has been hogging the fashion spotlight for quite some time, but now it’s time for all the Muppets to step out in style. Have designers like Tom Ford, Rick Owens, Versace and Michael Kors been secretly inspired by the Muppet clan? We think so, because we found a whole ton of muppet doppelgängers on the runway. They took over Good Morning America this morning, and now they’re taking over FashionIndie. What with all this media, once they’re done saving their theater, maybe they can help save Fashion Week.

Cookie Monster :: Helen Yarmak

Kermit the Frog :: Akris

Fozzie Bear :: Michael Kors

Statler & Walter :: Rick Owens

Gonzo :: Tom Ford

Bert and Ernie :: Paul Smith

Hilda :: Tavi* *not runway, but priceless.

Link Hogthrob :: Alexander McQueen

Marvin Suggs :: Versace

Newsman :: Thom Browne

Sam Eagle :: Just Cavalli

Animal :: Christian Dior

Zoot :: Gucci

Scooter :: Isabel Marant

Janice :: Donatella Versace

Sgt. Pepper Floyd :: Vivienne Westwood

Stagehand :: Marc Jacobs

Sweetums :: Dennis Basso

Dazed & Confused Celebrates 20 Years with Retrospective & Coffee Table Book

Samantha Lim — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 12:00:35 +0000

Dazed & Confused magazine celebrates their 20th birthday with a retrospective by Somerset House… tomorrow! Coinciding with the launch of the book ‘20 Years of Dazed & Confused: Making It Up As We Go Along’, the retrospective will feature iconic covers, artwork, photo shoots, designs, and their editorial content. In birthday terms they might still not legally be able to drink, but they sure seem to know how to celebrate. A list of the all star cast that will be featured in the stunning exhibit is after the jump.

Rankin

Nick Knight

David Sims

Terry Richardson

Jake & Dinos Chapman

Damien Hirst

Sam Taylor-Wood

Katie Grand

Katy England

Alister Mackie

Nicola Formichetti

Alexander McQueen

Vivienne Westwood

Gareth Pugh

Nailed It: Sophy Robson

Amanda Gabriele — Tue, 18 Oct 2011 17:30:23 +0000

Over the next few weeks, we are going to look at eight incredible manicurists and their over-the-top art in a new feature called Nailed It. Today, let’s explore the incredible manicure designs of London-based artist Sophy Robson. Pulling inspiration from music, fashion and street art, Robson’s nails are some of the boldest we’ve seen. Her designs have even landed her a gig with beauty powerhouse Sephora to curate its Sephora by OPI nail art. Click through for a gallery of our favorite Robson designs.

“I take the ghetto ideas and make them mainstream,” Robson told WWD. All photos via Sophy Robson’s Tumblr So So Fly Nails.

A Very Gaga Wedding?

Lester Brathwaite — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 10:54:44 +0000

And in other “Divas: They Grow Up So Fast” news, rumor has it Lady Gaga may or may not be marrying longtime/on-off/secret boyfriend and author of The Drunk Diet, Lüc Carl. And bets are floating in on who would be assigned the Gaga-gantuan task of designing her wedding dress.

Gag’s little sis, Natali Germanotta, is the odds on favorite — possibly for the Haus of Germanotta – with notable runners-up Nicola Formichetti (natch), Gareth Pugh, Atsuko Kudo, Donatella Versace and Vivienne Westwood.

Stella McCartney and Donna Karan are the least likely candidates — I guess a shawl-collared jersey wedding gown is a bit at odds with the Gaga aesthetic. But what about a Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen creation? I wouldn’t put it past the Lady to get married in the exact same dress as Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge…only because it would be hilarious.

As for the material of the dress, bets range from balloons to flowers and glass.

But here we are putting the unicorn before the cart. News of Gaga even dating anyone is news to me, let alone getting married. I’d hope if Lady Gaga were getting married she’d at least have the decency and class to whore the story — and herself — out, Kardashian-style. [WWD]

Over The Moon for Midnight Blue

Jessica Lapidos — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 14:03:47 +0000

Yesterday we got the blues for the men in our lives. Today we’re over the moon, for midnight blue. Accessorizing blue where black have been leaves you with a slightly brighter night. This darkest hue of blue looks even better set in gold. But then, so do most things. See where you can get the blues that won’t get you down.

Nocturnally vicious in a slithering snake centrifuge. Alexander McQueen £745

10 Reasons Men Should Wear Speedos

Jessica Lapidos — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 13:45:47 +0000

On the isles of the French Riviera, and all throughout Europe and the Mediterranean, the speedo is King. It’s where both the sexily ripped and the hairily rotund alike sport the banana hammock as common practice. Here in The States, our boys prefer the board short. But, sexily ripped gentlemen, we urge you to see the benefits of wearing smaller swimming trunks. So that we can see your muscly trunks. And for plenty of other reasons that benefit you more than us. With nary an actual Speedo on this list, see why 10 designers agree that a shorter, tighter bikini bottom is highly masculine.

DSquared2

You’re getting your gams in gear for your spankin’ new short shorts, and one thing is certain: Your upper thighs need a tan.

14 Fabulous Red Carpet Looks That Prove SJP Should Top Forbes

McArthur Joseph — Wed, 06 Jul 2011 20:21:49 +0000

Yesterday Forbes announced that our beloved Sarah Jessica Parker made it to the top of the most paid actress list by raking in 30 million dollars! To celebrate her good wealth we’ve compiled fourteen of our favorite red carpet looks by the former Carrie Bradshaw.

Alexander McQueen

Nini Ricci

Marchesa

Elie Saab

Vivienne Westwood

Lanvin

Alexander McQueen

Elie Saab & L'Wren Scott

Producer/actress Sarah Jessica Parker arrives to Bravo Media's 2010 Upfront Party to promote her new show "Work of Art", which she serves as Executive Producer. Skylight Studios, West Soho New York, New York Wednesday, March 10, 2010 Johns PkI/Splash News

Stella McCartney

Dolce & Gabbana

Yves Saint Laurent

Alexander McQueen

Burberry

Halston

Dior Haute Couture

INDIE NEWSROOM: Naomi Roars for Givenchy Before Attending Kate’s Wedding…Men’s Fashion Week Gets ‘Zany’…J. Lo Finds Her Light

Lester Brathwaite — Wed, 29 Jun 2011 21:43:19 +0000

- Kate Moss wedding guest and occasional BFF, Naomi Campbell is in full primal mode for Givenchy‘s new Fall 2011 campaign, shot by Mert & Marcus. [Fashion Gone Rogue]

- Kate‘s epic wedding guest list also includes Daphne Guinness, Vivienne Westwood, Jude Law, Jade Jagger and reportedly, John Galliano. [Styleite]

- Blogger Rachel Kane of WTForever21 might have to change the name of her blog to WTorever21 because she clearly doesn’t give an F. [Fashionista]

- Oscar nominee Hailee Steinfeld is precociously stunning in Miu Miu‘s new Fall 2011 campaign, shot by Bruce Weber. [Fashion Gone Rogue]

- Meanwhile, Raquel Zimmermann is sleekness defined for YSL by Inez and Vinoodh. [Models.com]

- The Huffington Post assembled 21 of Spring 2012 Men’s Fashion Week‘s “zaniest” looks. Some are actually zany, some are pretty fierce and some just need to stop pretending. [HuffPo]

- Jennifer Lopez will be on HSN this weekend, and while her team of handlers explain what an HSN is, J.Lo found her light and showed some gam for new fragrance Love & Light‘s ad campaign. [People]

British Council of Fashion Designers Play a Love Game at Wimbledon

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

The 125th annual Wimbledon tournament began yesterday with much hoorah from the fashion world. Just the other night, the women of the Women’s Tennis Association gathered for a pre-competition gala at The Roof Gardens in Kensington and the British Council of Fashion Designers rallied around of the tennis stars. These ladies may look smokin’ in tiny pleated skirts and poly/elastane tanks, but they clean up nice when powered by a council of designers. At least most of them do… See which one aced it, and which ones baselined.

ACE: Caroline Wozniacki – Stella McCartney

The #1 high power fashion-cum-athletic designer Stella McCartney has fittingly taken the #1 player in the WTA as her own; Caroline Wozniacki is the face of Adidas by Stella McCartney. She’s flashing Stella off and on the court and crushing bitches on the grass court.

SIDESPIN: Serena Williams - Burberry

One half of the dominating twins, this side paneled sidespin hugs every solid muscle curve.

LOVE: Ana Ivanovic – Matthew Williamson

Playfully textured, the slight fringe reminds us of the grass courts on which the tournament takes place. Mini-skirts and fast balls…

WILDCARD: Jelena Jankovic – Vivienne Westwood

This dress is a shirred thing. Will a win be in the bag?

FAULT: Heather Watson – Mulberry

How one makes an superbly trim athlete look frumpy is beyond me, but unfortunately Mulberry has done that for Watson. And the shoes look like ace bandages, not a good look for a competing tennis pro.

FLATLINER: Laura Robson – Temperley

She hits it low and steady. None too exciting, except for the shoulders.

LET: Andrea Petkovic – Richard Nicoll

The tennis imagery works in the iridescence, but the fit? The ref is consulting the umpire for a final decision.

BYE: Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova – David Koma

Its tennis themed pleat cuts her off all wrong, and ends up making her look wide. Too much, yet too little.

LOVE LOVE: Maria Sharpova – Alexander McQueen

Stuns, absolutely radiant.

MATCH POINT: Bethanie Mattek-Sands - Alex Noble

Designer to Lady Gaga, Alex Noble created the bodice of this dress out of, you guessed it, tennis balls. Tis possible that only an entity like Mother Monster could pull off such a thing, but don’t get us wrong Bethanie, we admire your balls.

Good little ball boy he is, Nicholas Kirkwood heeled the whole WTA for this night.

Designers gave the gala a big serve, but who won the game point in your book?

The Best Loot to Channel Your Inner Pirate

Amanda Gabriele — Fri, 20 May 2011 16:41:18 +0000

Ahoy, mateys! Are you prepared for ye olde Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides to open in theaters today? Well if you’ve been too busy pillaging the locals to put together appropriate garb for the film, we have you covered. Check out the guide below and channel your inner pirate.

1. Let your fingers make waves on the high seas – Noir Pirate Ship Ring $195, noirjewelry.com

2. Shattered & shiny, just like the mirror you broke when your treasure was stolen – OPI Pirates of the Caribbean Silver Shatter Nail Lacquer $11.95, amazon.com

3. Show them who’s boss and enter the room with your guns blazing – Western Six-Shooter Revolver Pistol Sunglasses $9.99, gogglesandglasses.com

4. To tie around your head on pirate missions – Missoni Vertical Stripe Scarf $390, harveynichols.com

5. Let the pirates lift your boozy booty for you – Brass Binnacle Two Pirates Wine Bottle Holder $38.95, brassbinnacle.com

6. So you can see the map on a late-night treasure hunt – DL & Co. Bright Pink Skull Candle $130, harveynichols.com

7. Land on your feet in style with these heavy-duty boots - Vivienne Westwood Pirate Boot $478, zappos.com

8. Keep your jewels guarded by a skull right where you can see them – Alexander McQueen Classic Skull Diamanté-Embellished Box Clutch $2,065, net-a-porter.com

9. Hoop earrings with killer swords for the classiest pirate madame – Noir Two Tone Dagger Hoop Earrings $60, endless.com

10. You’ll never lose your way with a compass around your neck – Swarovski Adventurous Pirates High Sea Compass Necklace $250, swarovski.com

11. Perfect for the landlubber who wants to jump on the pirate fashion ship – Wildfox Couture Pirate Love Mini T $59, wildfoxcouture.com

How are you celebrating the release of Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides? Even if the movie sucks, which is probable, it’s still fun to play dress-up for the occasion.

The 10 Worst-Dressed Designers

Lester Brathwaite — Tue, 03 May 2011 20:28:53 +0000

You would expect a dentist to have healthy teeth, a math teacher to be able to do long division and a police officer to follow the law, wouldn’t you? So why are some designers so gosh darn sartorially-challenged? Though they may make beautiful clothing for a living, some of fashion’s greatest designers have some of the worst personal style. Just because they have a great eye for detail doesn’t mean they use that eye when getting ready in the morning, so here’s a spiteful list of 10 designers who could probably do well by rifling through their collections rather than their closets.

1. Isaac Mizrahi

Though I live by Unzipped and gave Bravo‘s The Fashion Show a shot (even before the inclusion of Iman), once the mandals came out I just couldn’t keep my silence any longer.

2. Christian Audigier

Audigier would land on this list just for creating Ed Hardy, but religiously wearing it only cements his inclusion.

3. Vivienne Westwood

You know Crazy Cat Lady from The Simpsons? Dye her hair Carrot Top orange, throw her in a combat boot and call her Vivienne Westwood.

4. John Galliano

I’m less offended by his ringing endorsement of Hitler than by his penchant for gay pirate dandyism.

5. Kate Mulleavy

Turns out you can go wrong with all black, whereas a pop of color and a show of effort are always in fashion.

6. Jeremy Scott

Scott’s look says to me “Club kid who kept partying long after the trash was swept up” only Scott then rummaged through said trash for this jacket.

7. Patricia Field

Though she practically single-handedly created the fashion icon known as Carrie Bradshaw, Pat Field can give off too a bit too much sex in the city. Though kudos for rocking that Jessica Rabbit red hair better and before Rihanna.

8. Anna Sui

I saw Anna Sui on the street the other day…though it could’ve been a bag lady. Either way her China Bang was stunning.

9 Karl Lagerfeld, Perhaps a controversial choice, but the gay vampire look sometimes leaves me…cold.

10. Betsey Johnson

There’s nothing I want more than to see Betsey Johnson doing cartwheels in a ballerina tutu at age 90. Just because it’s bad doesn’t mean it doesn’t feel good.

For Whom the Belle Tolls: A High Fashion Royal Wedding

Lester Brathwaite — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 14:33:55 +0000

With the Royal Wedding creeping achingly closer each day, British Vogue would be remiss if they didn’t feature at least one editorial homage to the Prince William-Kate Middleton hysteria gripping both sides of the Atlantic. In “Wedding Belles,” Mario Testino does the honors, capturing Arizona Muse, Fei Fei Sun, Kirsi Pyrhonen, Madelene De La Motte, Irina Berezina and Karmen Pedaru as they’re besieged by men and women in uniform while maintaining their matrimonial cool .

Stylist Lucinda Chambers has Arizona taking flight in Elie Saab Haute Couture and Kirsi making waves in Marchesa, as Madeleine and Irina draw a cockney crowd in Vivienne Westwood.

Meanwhile, Fei Fei and Arizona are ready to cause a five-alarm fire in Alberta Ferretti and Carolina Herrera, respectively; luckily there’s a response team in the neighborhood.

Karmen is every inch the fairy tale princess in Dior Haute Couture and though there is nary a prince in sight, she could easily settle for a Lt. Charming of the Household Regiment – D Squadron.

Fei Fei, however is ready to find herself a few good men– and at least one boyish girl — in Jenny Packham.

All of these gowns are sickeningly gorgeous, but which one would you prefer to see the future princess Naomi Campbell-walk down the aisle in?

I’m a traditionalist and have always wanted to get married in Dior Haute Couture…my bridesmaids, all drag queens in Chanel Couture, deathdropping down the aisle while Liz Taylor officiates in a Givenchy Couture catsuit. Sadly, that dream is now missing a Dame.

Link Love: The Fashion Spot / Photos: Fashiontography

FASHION SCRAMBLE: Shulman’s Wedding Fake Out + Liz Up for Sale + Fashion in Silhouette

Lester Brathwaite — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 10:14:22 +0000

- British Vogue Editor, Alexandra Shulman, wanted to “remove the question of who would be designing the dress,” by offering a slew of designs by British and non-British designers. Of course, the dress to which she is referring is Kate Middleton‘s already legendary wedding gown that no one knows about or has seen yet. Talk about living up to the hype. Designers included in Shulman’s bridal issue include Oscar de la Renta, Vivienne Westwood and Bruce Oldfield, all featured on the cover and described as Shulman as the prettiest. Well, thankfully that question’s been removed: it’s totes one of those three. [WWD]

- The alleged sale of Elizabeth Taylor‘s $150 million jewelry collection is no longer alleged. Christie’s has confirmed that they have reached a deal with the late Dame’s family to sell Liz’s jewelry in addition to some of her art, clothing and other memorabilia at several auctions to be announced later this spring. If I can’t get that damned Taylor-Burton Diamond, I at least want this. You know, for lounging about the house….going to the grocery store. [HuffPo]

- This is hands down the best thing I’ve seen in my entire life: a chart detailing fashion’s silhouettes from the 18th century through the Victorian Era, the Roaring 20s, Dior’s New Look, the mod 60s, the punk 70s, up until the 2000s. How will the 2010s be represented? Tranny heels, bodysuits, harem pants, opulent fur, statement shoulders, Armageddon? [Fashionising]

FASHION SCRAMBLE: Decarnin Says Bye Bye to Balmain + Westwood Does Not

Lester Brathwaite — Wed, 06 Apr 2011 10:34:46 +0000

- After five lucrative, statement-shouldered years, Balmain and creative director Christophe Decarnin are getting a divorce. What will happen to the sequined jackets?! No one ever thinks about the sequined jackets! Decarnin was notoriously absent from the Fall 2011 show in Paris under speculation of a mental break, but sources say the designer and Balmain’s chairman/CEO Alain Hivelin just didn’t see eye to eye. An internal hire is expected to be announced shortly. [WWD]

- Vivienne Westwood is opening up her first flagship store in the states and she’s doing it in Los Angeles. Why L.A.? ”I don’t actually like New York.” She explains. “New York people are a bit stuck up and self important, and think that just the fact that they live in New York makes them better than anybody else.” Not better than anybody else. Better than everybody else. So-what? Who-cares? Is it our fault our city kicks every other city’s ass? I don’t think so. Please don’t punish us for being the bestest, Viv. [W]

- As if there weren’t enough fashion reality shows hosted by supermodels, now NBC has thrown their chapeau into the ring with Fashion Star, hosted by Elle Macpherson. But don’t expect high concept challenges requiring yards of tulle and a metric ton of beading; this show will focus on everyday items, “like bathing suits or lingerie, or surf wear and jeans.” And the winner gets a multi-million dollar contract and the chance to have their line sold at a “massive retail store.” I don’t know about you, but I’ve all but given up on PJ Runway (Lifetime? Ew.) and The Fashion Show, despite Iman being the best person ever, just doesn’t make the cut. Will a show about designers making mass-retail jeans intrigue you? Especially on NBC? [Modelina]

Carmen Dell’Orefice Proves That Fierce Knows No Age Limit

Lester Brathwaite — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 12:20:09 +0000

Supermodel Carmen Dell’Orefice has been modeling for nearly 65 years — give or take a decade or two — and nearing 80, Dell’Orefice seems to have only gotten better with age.

Photographed by Ruven Afandor and styled by Anna Brambilla, Carmen appears in Vanity Fair Italia wearing looks by Stella McCartney, Vivienne Westwood, Ralph Lauren and Viktor & Rolf.

Having lost all of her life savings for the second time around — but this time was thanks to Ponzi-schemer, Bernie Madoff — Carmen Dell’Orefice continues to work perhaps out of necessity but continues to work it effortlessly.

Photos: Tom & Lorenzo

How To Dress For Spring Showers & Still Look Magnificent

Amanda Gabriele — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 13:00:45 +0000

The official start of spring is less than two weeks away (yay!) which means spring showers are also on the horizon (boo). But do not fear, you can brave the rain with flying colors if you dress for the weather. Check out the guide below full of items to help keep you dry, snug and, hopefully, cheerful.

Credit: Stylescoop.co.za

1. Invest in a good raincoat. There is nothing worse than arriving somewhere feeling cold, damp and gloomy. A good raincoat will keep you dry and never go out of style. Plus, they last for years if you take good care of them.

Clockwise from top left:
- Emma Cook duffle raincoat $400 – net-a-porter.com

- Diane von Furstenberg Zigzag cotton-blend raincoat $282 – theoutnet.com

- Jil Sander raincoat with tie waist $705 – brownsfashion.com

- Smythe Asymmetric hooded raincoat $385 – brownsfashion.com

- Rag & Bone Bleecker trench $595 – lagarconne.com

- Vivienne Westwood raincoat $1,065 – viviennewestwood.co.uk

- H&M white raincoat – hm.com

2. Don’t forget your rain boots. Even if you change into different shoes, waterproof wellies are a must for any walking commute. But these styles are so cute, you might not want to make the switch.

Clockwise from top:
- Sperry Top-Sider Sadie rain boot $79.95 – endless.com

- Fessura rain boot $119.95 – endless.com

- Cole Haan Air Melanie knee-high rain boot $128 – endless.com

- Calvin Klein Ava rain boot $119 – calvinklein.com

- Burberry haymarket splash rain boot $225 – zappos.com

- Roxy drizzle rain boots $54 – roxy.com

- Pour la Victoire studded ‘Ted’ rubber rain boots $162.99 – bluefly.com

- Polo Ralph Lauren Rossalyn II Rain Boots $64.99 – finishline.com

- Target leopard fade rain boots $22.49 – target.com

- Loeffler Randall LR rain bootie $165 – zappos.com

3. Ditch your boring, black umbrella. Would it be out of line to say these umbrellas may make you wish for rain? Maybe that’s going too far, but these designs are both adorable and made to last. Trash that bodega umbrella if you haven’t already and buy something you’ll enjoy opening.

Clockwise from top left:
- Marc by Marc Jacobs jumbled birds umbrella $48 – zappos.com

- Lulu Guinness birdcage umbrella $52 – luluguinness.com

- ModCloth raindrops on railways umbrella $30 – modcloth.com

- Kate Spade umbrella $55 – katespade.com

- Tiffany butterfly umbrella $46 – umbrellaheaven.com

4. De-frizz your hair. Humidity will leave your locks in shambles no matter what the temperature may be. These products will work with your hair on those down-pour days to keep it looking smooth, light and frizz-free.

From left:
- Tigi Bed Head Some Like It Hot heat and humidity resistant serum $20 – yesstyle.com

- Frederic Fekkai Marine Summer Hair Zero-Humidity Frizz Control $20 – yesstyle.com

- John Frieda Frizz-Ease original hair serum $7.64 – ulta.com

- ghd Obedience Cream for Frizz-Free Styling $18 – neimanmarcus.com

- Redken Fresh Curls Curl Boost Anti-Frizz Scrunching Spray Gel $38 – yesstyle.com

- Living Proof Wave Shaping, Curl Defining No Frizz Styling Spray $95 – sephora.com

5. Throw a hat on that frizz. Forgot to de-frizz? No problem! These spring hats are so fresh, they’re much more than bad hair day remedies. From classic straw to flower appliques, there is something for everyone here.

Clockwise from top:
- ASOS PREMIUM flower detail hat $44.83 – asos.com

- Albertus Swanepoel Pierre fedora $415 – barneys.com

- Topshop traditional boater $40 – topshop.com

- Missoni Zigzag crochet-knit sunhat $495 – net-a-porter.com

- Marc Jacobs Chapeau hat $442 – colette.fr

- Christian Dior 1950s vintage floral hat $450 – 1stdibs.com

- Zara two-tone wide brim hat with bow $29.90 – zara.com

6. Don’t let mean Mother Nature steal your sunshine. It might be damp and dreary, but you can brighten your day with a bold piece or two. Just looking at these colors will put you on a sandy beach.

From top to bottom, starting from the left column:
-D&G quilted crossbody bag $515 – zappos.com

- Zara fashion city bag with flap $149 – zara.com

- Adidas concord round sleek night shoes $70 – adidas.com

- Moschino ruched linen-blend skirt $860 – net-a-porter.com

- Acne high-rise skinny jeans $275 – net-a-porter.com

- Miss Selfridge belted drape bubble dress $65 – missselfridge.com

- Versace Polka-dot cotton-blend micro shorts $595 – net-a-porter.com

- ASOS MARKY Patent Leather Traditional Brogues $62.76 – asos.com

- Lanvin one-shoulder top $1,260 – barneys.com

- Jil Sander stretch-cotton slim-leg pants $595 – net-a-porter.com

- ASOS leather saddle bag $53.79 – asos.com

- H&M bow flats – hm.com

- ModCloth Perfect Photo Op Flat in Wingtip $102.99 – modcloth.com

Vivienne Westwood at World’s End Eighties Trip

Jessica Lapidos — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 23:37:38 +0000

Vivienne Westwood‘s influential existence in the realm of fashion evolved through its powerful early stages between 1980-89. The Museum at FIT has gathered photos, press and groundbreaking garments into an exhibit that opened yesterday that demonstrates her profound effect on the punk revolution, and how she garnered international interest for the London fashion scene. She created by the philosophy, not of change, but rather surprisingly of tradition. It is how she manipulated past traditions to fit the changing times that resonated with so many.

“If you look at any movement… it’s people rejecting what’s just behind them and pulling something out of the past.” – Vivienne Westwood, 1986

At the beginning of her journey into the fashion world, Westwood opened a store with design and business partner, artist Malcom McLaren. Through many incarnations of names, a store called World’s End (with a 13 hour backwards moving clock over the doorway) became the breeding ground for their experiments of unisex clothing inspired by 18th-century men’s undergarments, swashbuckling Pirate-wear and other historically sound yet new-age garb. The photo below was taken in the store, Vivienne on the bottom left, Malcom on the right.

McLaren and Westwood took the anti-establishment of World’s End to the runway. The first look below is a unisex tunic and pants ensemble, which was part of the Pirates collection in 1981. The next is made of sweatshirt fleece supplemented with blouse and baby blanket material. The third look from the Buffalo collection of ’82 is an antique-looking brown satin bra top with a full cotton skirt; the show note went to the tune of Take your mother’s bra and put it over a sweater with a muddy face. The fourth look on the right is a pair of distressed pants suspended by springs “to show the movement”.

The Buffalo collection:

The influence of Vivienne Westwood and Malcom McLaren moved beyond the streets and runways of London and far past the doors of World’s End when musicians got involved. In fact, the Sex Pistols wore their designs back when their brand was still called “Let It Rock”. With the advent of MTV, celebrity fans of World’s End like Boy George and Adam and the Ants became fashion icons before the world on television, in Westwood.

Vivienne Westwood drew great influence from philosopher Bertrand Russell. It is his quote on her shirt, “Orthodoxy is the Grave of Intelligence.”

With that, in 1984 when she and McLaren parted ways due to artistic differences, she went against the grain of the eighties. Where most of the industry was creating silhouettes of power shoulders and boxy suits, she drew from the Victorian era and developed the “mini crini”; a knee length version of the crinoline understructure. She also dipped into the seventies and Japan and pulled out platforms, but gave them a pirouette; the rounded up toe allows for perfect balance on point. Even more radically, she resurrected the corset, bringing it back in a liberating manner for it was no longer required. The quote on this photo reads, “…taking tradition into the future.” – Vivienne Westwood.

Feminizing the Scottish kilt, futurizing the corset and harking menswear back to medieval times, Vivienne Westwood in the late eighties was well on her way to stamping her unique print on fashion. She ended the decade with a bang: November ’89 cover of British Vogue.

More on Vivienne Westwood and the FIT exhibit:

Photography by Tommy Mendes

Character Study — Fran Fine

Lester Brathwaite — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 21:31:01 +0000

She was working in a bridal shop in Flushing, Queens. Next thing you know her boyfriend kicks her to the curb. It’s one of those crushing scenes. Today’s class (in case you need a refresher; class has been out of session for a while and Gwyneth Paltrow was unable to sub) is dedicated to Francine Joy Fine Sheffield. Though she might be better known as The Nanny, Fran Fine never looked domestic.

Key Pieces: Mini skirts, bold prints, leopard anything, skirtsuits, body-conscious dresses, tights, the occasional statement evening gown for when Mr. Sheffield lets her out of the house and, of course, tons and tons of hairspray.

Designers to Wear: Vivienne Westwood, Gucci, Christopher Kane, Betsey Johnson

Vivienne Westwood Red Label AW 2011

Gucci AW 2011

Christopher Kane SS 2010

Betsey Johnson AW 2011

Defining Fashion Moment: Whenever Mr. Sheffield had any sort of high-brow fête, Fran would make her entrance atop the staircase to the studio audience’s whoops and hollars. Then she would precede to mess up and inevitably repair whatever situation her employer was involved in.

Fran Drescher’s endlessly optimistic nanny was the continuation of a long legacy of whacky ladies who were no strangers to glamour. A legacy that started in the 1930s with screwball heroines like Carole Lombard, Katharine Hepburn and Irene Dunne and which continued for decades more with Lucille Ball.

That The Nanny is still in re-runs is a testament to Fran’s (Drescher and Fine’s) own legacy. Now if we only had more time I could delve into the genius wardrobes of Ms. Fine’s relations: Yetta and Sylvia Fine.

I can see the apple doesn’t fall far from the sequined tree. And for extra credit, study up on Should Be on the Nanny.

Christopher Kane SS 2010

Vivienne Westwood Red Label AW 2011

Gucci AW 2011

Betsey Johnson AW 2011

RuPaul’s Drag Race: Mopping Up the Competition

Lester Brathwaite — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 21:48:09 +0000

13 drag queens from around the country heeled it to L.A. for another round of expert tucks, budget sequins, cheap puns and death-defying lip-synching also know as the third season of RuPaul’s Drag Race.

RPDR:3 is basically what happens when you take the bastard child of America’s Next Top Model, Project Runway and American Idol, throw a wig on it and let it run free in size 12 heels on subscription cable.

Last night’s episode, “The Queen Who Mopped Christmas” introduced us to the 13 queens who would compete for the title of “America’s Next Drag Superstar.”

Before they could even put down their purses, Ru showed up to give them their first challenge: a photo shoot with super hunky photog and A-Lister Mike Ruiz. The queens had to jump for their love, posing on a trampoline while making it look both easy and sexy. The winner of the challenge was Raja, a lanky lady whose style will make you go Gaga.

Tyra would be proud.

The contestants were then given $50 and 10 minutes at a thrift store to find pieces that would go into creating their best holigay couture. Amidst a sea of shade and despite a breakdown or two, the queens got their tucks together in time for the runway.

Wilhelmina Slater herself, Vanessa Williams joined PJ Runway alum Santino Rice, Michelle Visage (Ru’s old co-host on 90′s relic, The RuPaul Talk Show) and Mike Ruiz (with guest Santa, Bruce Villanch) to judge the queens on who best embodied the principles of CUNT – Charisma, Uniqueness, Nerve and Talent.

Raja won again, this time with a look reminiscent of Vivienne Westwood and a walk that would put most supermodels to shame. Meanwhile Venus D-Lite and season 2 cast-off Shangela had to lip-synch for their lives to Vanny Williams’ own “The Right Stuff.”

Things got a little ugly — eyelashes and wigs flying everywhere — and though Shangela was the first to be eliminated the last time she hit the stage, she proved the better woman this time around and Venus had to sashay…away.

Raja is clearly the front-runner for RPDR:3, but my money might be on one Ms. Manila Luzon who gives epic face.

This promises to be a fierce season, full of the backstabbing, weave-pulling and bitch-slapping that the best of reality TV can only aspire to. Welcome back, Ru. And may the best tranny…

WIN!

Link Love: RuPaul’s Drag Race

Vivienne Westwood Makes the Cutest Rubber Shoes in the World

Amanda Gabriele — Thu, 30 Dec 2010 18:19:57 +0000

These adorable Vivienne Westwood Mini Melissa flats are obviously for little girls, but I’m a bit jealous they don’t come in my size. Made from sustainable rubber, you can put your mini fashionista daughter/cousin/niece in designer shoes for $93.

You can snag these shoes from almost anywhere in the world at Childsalon.

LINK LOVE: Child Mode

Fashion? It’s In the Cards

Hilary Beck — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 19:39:00 +0000

The gypsy lady reading your fortune just got a lot more chic. Curator Stacy Engman invited fashion industry insiders like Karl Lagerfeld, Marc Jacobs and Terry Richardson to create some fabulous, psychedelic tarot cards, currently on view at The National Arts Club.

Contemporary Magic: A Tarot Deck Art Project features the works of Karl Lagerfeld, Marc Jacobs, Christian Louboutin, Vivienne Westwood, Gareth Pugh, Nate Lowman, Patrick McMullan, Ryan McGinness, Terry Richardson & Will Cotton giving classic mystical figures a total makeover. You’ve never seen the High Priestess card look quite like this.

Vivienne Westwood’s Penis Shoe is Horrifying

Amanda Gabriele — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 14:04:40 +0000

Vivienne Westwood can do no wrong in by book, but then I saw this. The penis shoe from her 1995 collection is super scary, especially at 10 a.m. only halfway through my coffee. The fluffy testicles are half cute, but the front is just appalling.

LINK LOVE: Filthy Gorgeous Things

MODEL LUST: Daisy Lowe Opens Up About Her Insecurities

Amanda Gabriele — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 15:11:18 +0000

Even gorgeous models like Daisy Lowe have poor self-esteem moments. The English beauty told Vogue.com what happens behind closed doors.

“Modelling is difficult and behind closed doors, I began to feel really insecure,” Lowe reveals. “People were going on about me having bad skin and I was beating myself up over every picture.”

But the critical comments didn’t stop her. Lowe walked in the Vivienne Westwood spring/summer 2011 show during London Fashion Week and is the new face of Biba. You go girl!

LINK LOVE: Vogue.com

Vivienne Westwood to Launch Watch Collection

lookbooks — Thu, 23 Sep 2010 16:01:59 +0000

From a SEX shop with Malcolm McLaren to luxury timepieces : punk provocateur Vivienne Westwood is set to expand her fashion empire with a collection of watches . Fresh off a whirlwind show at London Fashion Week , the iconic British designer has partnered with Zeon Watches to design, market, and distribute the…

More Fashion News on LookBooks.com

Vivienne Westwood Red Label Spring/Summer 2011

The Fashion Web — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 18:18:44 +0000

%images%
There was a media circus at Vivienne Westwood’s Red Label show as Pamela Anderson was ushered inside. She joined Cat Deeley and Victoria Hervey front row as Erin O’Connor and Hilary Alexander struggled to find their seats before the show started. With a mind bending sound track the models…

LINK:http://blog.luisaviaroma.com/follow-the-buyers-london/vivienne-westwood-red-label-springsummer-2011.html

Swarovski Elements 22 Ways to Say Black Exhibition

Amanda Gabriele — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 20:29:58 +0000

Swarovski has partnered with 22 leading fashion designers including Giorgio Armani, Donna Karan, Thakoon, Phillip Lim, Alber Elbaz and Vivienne Westwood, to each create an iconic one-of-a-kind little black dress using the brand’s loose crystal. Read more…

3.1 Phillip Lim made with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, Photography Scheltens & Abbenes

Diane von Furstenberg made with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, Photography Scheltens & Abbenes

Lanvin by Alber Elbaz made with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, Photography Scheltens & Abbenes

Each of the designs will be auctioned off for charity on Monday, September 20 under the high-patronage of
Carla Bruni-Sarkozy, first lady of France. All proceeds of the auction will benefit the American Cancer Society.

3.1 Phillip Lim made with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, Photography Scheltens & Abbenes

Diane von Furstenberg made with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, Photography Scheltens & Abbenes

Lanvin by Alber Elbaz made with SWAROVSKI ELEMENTS, Photography Scheltens & Abbenes

Melissa Spring 2011 ‘Amazonista’ Collection

The Fashion Web — Tue, 24 Aug 2010 15:48:58 +0000

Link Love:Melissa Spring 2011 ‘Amazonista’ Collection

Melissa previews new designs and collabs, for their Spring/Summer “Amazonista” collection. The shoe highlighted above is the “Patchuli” wedge- a continuation of Melissa x Vivienne Westwood’s footwear line and the highest heel yet for Melissa. I love their introduction of heart-adorned flip flops! Comfy yet cute. Check out the collection below.

There is also buzz circulating about “Mel’ a lower priced line that will range between $25 and $46.

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Quiksilver jeans | Style UK

The Fashion Web — Fri, 13 Aug 2010 23:45:13 +0000

SOURCE:Quiksilver jeans | Style UK

Wearing Quiksilver Jeans, Vivienne Westwood Boots

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Vivienne Westwood Fall Winter 2010.11

The Fashion Web — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 21:39:43 +0000

Ad Campaign: Vivienne Westwood
Season: F/W 10.11
Photographed by Juergen Teller
Website: www.viviennewestwood.com
Designer Vivienne Westwood once again teams up with renowned fashion snapper Juergen Teller and once again she is starring in the ads. Juerge is a regular campaign photographer for brands like Celine and Marc Jacbos but perhaps his vision finds the bast match with Vivienne, new adverts already hitting the pages of latest fashion glossy did not leave out the small message “Leonard Peltier is innocent“.

Continue for more after the jump:

LINK LOVE:Vivienne Westwood Fall Winter 2010.11

FILM FRIDAY: Sonatine (1993)

Jason Chan, Señor — Fri, 23 Jul 2010 18:09:16 +0000

Many of you may be familiar with Takeshi ‘Beat’ Kitano due to Spike‘s overdubbing his game show Takeshi’s Magic Castle as Most Extreme Challenge. However, Kitano is also a prolific artist and filmmaker in Japan and Sonatine is probably the best of his many gangland opuses. Let’s take a look!

The movie follows Kitano as a Japanese gangster who wants out. His bosses, however, want him to pull one last job out in Okinawa. As with most last jobs, things go horribly awry leading Kitano and his team to hide out on the beach. Once there, a lot of non-action happens, but much like Wong Kar-Wai does, Kitano manages to make this non-action incredibly beautiful.

Like every Film Friday entry, there are suits galore. And like with most Film Fridays, it’s all about the fit and all about the details. Even in the noir darkness, one can see that this plain blue blazer fits Kitano well. And his colleague’s jacket, while it has gigantic lapels, is the perfect shade of grey for Spring or Summer, much like this Marc Jacobs blazer or these from Rag & Bone and Jil Sander.

Somehow, certain characters in the film manage to even make the most atrocious pieces look presentable if not downright stylish. Check out this minor character’s tie, reminiscent of a collaboration between Beauty & Youth of Japan and The Hillside of New York.

Along with the floral ties are plenty of floral tops. Again, the connotations of floral shirts (think Jimmy Buffett) are not exactly flattering, but the colors and patterns used make shirts like the ones above work. Take notes, old white men traveling in Hawaii. And the kid’s t-shirt in the first pic? Not too different from the type of stuff Japanese brand 45rpm is doing.

There’s also a little bit of the weird here and there (if the floral tie didn’t do it for you). Check out the pants on the somber gent to the left, oddly similar to this offering by the good folks at Oak.

Also, check out the other somber guy on the left, Mr. Short But Threatening, rocking a chalk-stripe suit not unlike this from Dolce & Gabbana or a reverse version of this Vivienne Westwood blazer.

And lest we forget about the ladies (a definite no-no), some more floral pieces. The above like any number of tops you’ll see floating around this summer, the dress like prettier, more vibrant versions of these by Jean Paul Gaultier and Tsumori Chisato.

And, in a nutshell, there’s the style of Sonatine. Like any previous Film Friday editions, of course not everyone will agree with this film’s inclusion as a movie with sartorial worth. In fact, many will probably share the same opinion as Kitano’s character above. The fact remains, though, that the characters in this film pull off both traditional and more daring pieces with ease and that makes it worth any Film Friday.

Vivienne Westwood Spring Summer 2011 Menswear Full Show 2.

The Fashion Web — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 06:50:46 +0000

Vivienne Westwood Spring Summer 2011 Menswear Full Show. part2

LINK LOVE:Vivienne Westwood Spring Summer 2011 Menswear Full Show 2.

Vivienne Westwood Spring Summer 2011 Menswear Full Show 1.

The Fashion Web — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 06:50:27 +0000

Vivienne Westwood Spring Summer 2011 Menswear Full Show. part1

LINK LOVE:Vivienne Westwood Spring Summer 2011 Menswear Full Show 1.

FILM FRIDAY: Straight to Hell (1987)

Jason Chan, Señor — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 20:28:31 +0000

What happens when you get a kooky British filmmaker, a failed punk festival, and a Dennis Hopper cameo into the desert? The campiest pseudo-Western this side of Sergio Leone. In the vein of those spaghetti westerns, filled with punk icons, Alex Cox‘s Straight to Hell is a helluva (stylish) ride.

After an all-star punk festival fell apart, the bands involved found themselves with some spare scratch and a landscape ripe for shootouts and standoffs. The plot revolves around three hitmen/bank robbers who happen upon a small town populated by wild and wacky weirdos who they have to commingle with while they wait for the heat to die down. Things, of course, go awry. Honestly the plot is secondary though to the rollicking nature of the film, the setpieces, and total absurdity.

The film’s cast reads like a who’s who of the era’s punk and new wave scene. There’s Joe Strummer, The Pogues, The Circle Jerks, Grace Jones, Elvis Costello, and even soon-to-be indie film god Jim Jarmusch. And as an extra added bonus they’re all playing dress up. Oh and Courtney Love‘s there too.

And she’s dressed well, which shouldn’t be much of a surprise if you follow her new Tumblr. Pink dress with white polka dots not unlike this offering from Leifsdottir. She might want to close those legs though. But the matching watermelon‘s a nice touch.

Concerning the guys, check out Dick Rude‘s pants. They’re very reminiscent of pairs shown off by Vivienne Westwood on a regular basis, which only seems fitting considering her place as the godmother of punk fashion. Joe Strummer’s got on a ho-hum slim black suit but such a suit is almost always a recipe for looking good.

The gorgeous Jennifer Balgobin is, throughout the movie, basically a walking ad for American Apparel. Look at the top picture for an example. Spandex top? Check. High waisted bottoms? Check. That’s not to say she doesn’t class it up a little, though. A simple, strapless blue dress which looks perfect for the weather…and also strikingly like this Jason Wu.

It’s almost frightening how much the women’s wardrobe in this movie matches up with pieces you’d find in today’s boutiques trending towards the younger gal. Despite the film’s being over two decades old, the dress pictured above is here, here, and here. And the boyfriend shirt? Too many links to think about.

Similarly, this little white number on Michele Winstanley (I think) who, throughout the film, makes you wonder if Karen O got her whole schtick from this one character. But back to the dress. Ta-da! And while the mariachi dressed men behind her probably aren’t exactly in style, they still look pretty awesome.

But before you think there’s only things for the ladies, say hello to Jeeves/Whitey and his killer pink summer suit. Once again, very similar to something Westwood-ian, it also brings to mind pieces from Junya Watanabe and Filippa K.

The best ensemble in the entire movie, though, is definitely what Jim Jarmusch has got on. It’s as if the director of such weirdo movies as Mystery Train, Dead Man, and Night On Earth decided to go as Karl Lagerfeld for Halloween. And it is awesome.

Be warned: Straight to Hell is by no means a cinematic masterpiece, nor will it be in most people’s eyes ‘competent filmmaking’, what with a 5.5 rating on IMDB. But if you go in with the right attitude, it’s as fun as Robocop and as splendorous as any period piece without being dry and/or expected. Do yourself a favor and watch it. (HINT: It’s on YouTube for free).

Some more looks at noteworthy, inexplicable get-ups in the gallery below.

FILM FRIDAY: Bronson (2008)

Jason Chan, Señor — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 20:15:59 +0000

This week’s Film Friday is all about iconoclastic director Nicolas Winding Refn’s biopic about “England’s most famous criminal” Charles Bronson née Michael Gordon Peterson. Get ready for Savile Row tailoring, twisted takes on hipster duds, workwear revival, and some killer sunglasses. Hit the jump!!

Bronson is held together as much by Refn’s deft directorial hand as the bombastic, unhinged performance of lead man Tom Hardy who became a mountain of muscle for the role. With this impressive musculature, it would seem as if wardrobe would have to resort to outfitting Hardy a la the Hulkster in Mr. Nanny. But these are Brits, after all, so bring out the tailors!

Two-toned forest green three piece suit. The jacket’s not an oversized mess, the pants fit like a charm. There’s no god-awful Wall Street/finance guy bootcut action going on here. On top of that check out the sweet oxblood valise Hardy’s got going on. I doubt anyone leaving prison’s ever looked so dashing. Check the gallery for a closer look.

Another suit look from the film has Hardy in a black wool(?) three-piece that’s pure Savile Row. The fit of the vest and the jacket, the collar of the button-down, all are reminiscent of venerable British designers Paul Smith and Vivienne Westwood; or an up-and-comer like Oliver Spencer. Add in the little details like the watch chain and the simple pocket square (and the face paint), and you’ve got a pretty spectacular outfit. What could’ve slipped into train conductor shtick is instead just a great ensemble.

Let’s not forget, though, that this is a movie set in and about prison. Costume designer Sian Jenkins forgoes the prison jumpsuit, instead infusing the prison scenes with a traditional/workwear vibe that’s been all the rage with younger designers in the States in accordance with the ongoing movement towards Americana.

The above two pictures feature pieces reminiscent of a pair of Brit designer Nigel Cabourn trousers. Or check out Hardy’s sweatshirt–a dead ringer for this simple offering from Acne. Then onto the jacket Matt King has on, and the workshirt featured above. Someone should check if workwear obsessed Japanese brand Haversack cut some sort of deal with Refn.

Although Bronson has an overload of testosterone, there’s still room for the ladies. For example, Bronson’s love interest (played by Juliet Oldfield) looks downright elegant in this McQueen-ish blouse.

Add to that this outfit on Oldfield that looks like a double for one of those ubiquitous American Apparel ads and you’ve officially run quite the spectrum throughout the film, from classic British suits to American/British-styled workwear, couture to hipster-city.

It only makes sense that Bronson runs such a gamut of styles. The movie itself is a bombastic, complicated showcase of a great actor and director examining the life of a career criminal from stints in prison and the insane asylum, a career fighting men and animals for money, and ultimately prison again.

Even if the clothes weren’t impeccably chosen and designed, like last week’s entry Le Samouraï, the film’s worth checking out anyways. Hardy and Refn make quite the team.

Check out the gallery for a variation on Terry Richardson’s creepy uncle glasses, Hardy’s paisley tie (which manages not to be absolutely garish), Illesteva style shades, and just for kicks, a jumpsuit.

FILM FRIDAY: Le Samouraï (1967)

Jason Chan, Señor — Fri, 25 Jun 2010 18:51:47 +0000

Welcome to a new feature where films with style in the wardrobe department are discussed. And the movies aren’t half-bad either. For this, the inaugural edition, Jean-Pierre Melville’s 1967 French noir Le Samouraï starring one of modern cinema’s earliest sex symbols M. Alain Delon.

The film follows Delon as Jef Costello, a loner and assassin who leaves you wondering why he’s alone. For God’s sakes, he’s a snappy dresser with killer looks (pardon the pun). Check him out in this ensemble:

Slim, perfectly-tailored suit with a skinny black tie with high-waisted trousers a la those recently revived by Thom Browne and featured in the most recent Vivienne Westwood show. Hell, if Scott Sternberg wanted to, he could’ve just as easily named his line after this classic of French cinema.

Now, the film being a noir and also set in Paris, the environs are almost perpetually gloomy, leaving way for many shots of Delon and the other film’s denizens in trenchcoats.

Again, check the fit, the sharp lines, the silhouette. This shot may be from over four decades ago, but it’s more Burberry Prorsum or Margiela than London Fog. It’s an outfit and shot that would look comfortable in an editorial out of AnOther: Man. That’s not something the original Casino Royale (also 1967) could say.

And let’s not forget about the leading lady, little known actress Cathy Rosier. Check out girl’s get-ups while playing a little game of free association.

Mme. Rosier’s dress is evocative of the nudes, creams, and camels which were so heavily featured on the runways this past winter. Similar items abound from designers as diverse as Opening Ceremony, Halston, and Lanvin.

And hello sequins. Although it’s not the right season, it’s not difficult to imagine women watching Le Samouraï today dreaming of similar pieces that dominated retailers such as Topshop, French Connection, Balmain, and Alice + Olivia.

Lastly, let’s take a look at this totally boss leopard print coat which brings to mind one label and one label only: Dolce & Gabbana who have established a reputation for creating beautiful garments in a variety of animal prints, most notably leopard.

In summation, Melville’s film is as stylish cinematically as it is, well, stylistically, and that’s what makes this a perfect first entry for Film Friday. If you haven’t seen it yet, NetFlix it ASAP. Pretty people in pretty clothes doing underhanded things.