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]

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.

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

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

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]

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

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.

- 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]

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?

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. 

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.

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

- 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]

- 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]

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

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

“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

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.

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

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

LINK LOVE: Child Mode

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.

LINK LOVE: Filthy Gorgeous Things

“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

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.

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.

Become a FashionIndie.com contributor. Subscribe to Envy.

Become a FashionIndie.com contributor. Subscribe to Envy.

LINK LOVE:Vivienne Westwood Fall Winter 2010.11

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

Loving this look. Seems very simple and would def spark a few conversations at a party. Very Vivienne Westwood circa Fall 2010.

Image via TrendHunter

Leave it to SJP to have fun on a red carpet…here she is in a Fall 2010 Viv Westwood creation at the Japan Premier of Sex and the City 2. A gold Alexander McQueen skull clasp clutch completed the look, another tribute to the late designer, Sarah has been spotted wearing it several times.

LINK LOVE: Red Carpet Fashion Awards

10 ‘fashion gods’ were each captured by the photographer of their choice for the tenth anniversary of 10 Magazine. Helmut Lang sent in a passport photo, Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana by Terry Richardson, Vivienne Westwood by Juergen Teller, Ralph Lauren by Bruce Weber, and Karl Lagerfeld submitted a self-portrait. Alber Elbaz, Azzedine Alaia, Donatella Versace, John Galliano, and Tom Ford are the others.

LINK LOVE: Fashionologie

Leona Lewis appears on the cover of InStyle UK wearing a Preen printed dress.

In the rest of her editorial shot by Andreas Larsson we see her wearing Dolce & Gabbana and Yong.

In her interview Leona talks about Simon Cowell, her fashion favourites and her body issues.

Here are some extracts from her interview.

On her relationship with Simon Cowell: “I’m very fiery and very passionate. We don’t argue, we debate.”

On her fashion favorites: “I still love my big ballgowns with a kind of twist to them, but I also like Vivienne Westwood because she’s kind of punky and does really nice shapes for ladies. I like Antonio Berardi because I like his shapes too. And William Tempest. And I like Stella McCartney because she’s got a vegetarian range. I love Stella. I want to do a vegetarian range of clothing. I haven’t had time to properly focus on it, but I’m still designing.”

On being a diva: “I don’t think I’m demanding! I think it’s okay to ask how you want your food cooked. People just dramatise everything.”

On the guy who punched her during a book signing: “I was angry at first, but when I found out he wasn’t well…”

On body issues: “No weird sex books for me. I would never even do a bikini shoot. It’s too embarrassing.”

Credit: Style.com & InStyle

LINK: Leona Lewis For InStyle June 2010

Add Your Own Stories on ENVY The Fashion Network

LINK: Vivienne Westwood ‘Anglomania’ for Lee Capsule Collection

Add Your Own Stories on ENVY The Fashion Network

It makes me sick how Rodarte could take such a traditional 80s punk essential, hike it up 2000 dollars and send it in market.

Environmentally conscious Brazilian footwear label Melissa, who has recently collaborated with Jean Paul Gaultier and Vivienne Westwood, is doing a collaboration with the CFDA.

“Melissa has mostly collaborated with international designers and artists,” CFDA executive director Steven Kolb told WWD. “They have been really amazing, but we think adding an American voice with CFDA now involved will push Melissa to new creative heights.”

LINK LOVE: Stylist

It’s because…

Nah just joking!

More like this…

With my sexy Marc by Marc Jacobs top, my McQueen memento silk chiffon skull scarf, and my
hot-blue-pants!

Haha! And where was the bubbly Bobo going tonight dressed so splendiferously and totally NOT looking fugly? *Because you guys really
care a lot about the mundane little things that Bobo does right?
RIGHT?!*

Another shopping conquest? To have dinner and talk to himself? To try and find a
little hole to jump into in hopes of meeting the Mad Hatter and asking
him to make a hat for him? Or perhaps to the psychiatric hospitals?

Readers: YES! Finally that retard checks into a psychiatric hospital!

Me: OH NO BIATCHES! All those guesses were WRONG! And Bobo’s still in
bee-zee-ness!

So then… Where exactly did I go tonight?

TO ORCHARD ROAD! For FashionSeason@Orchard! And in this case, specifically, to Paragon! For
the Female/Nuyou Catwalk Collection 2010 Fashion Show!!!

*By the way, Female and Nuyou are local magazines… Not that I initially knew!
Hahaha I found out like… when I got the invite! From my Dad’s
friend… so… I’M SHAMELESS!*

And people! THIS WAS MY FIRST FASHION SHOW!!

AND AND! I was in the fucking front-row!!! OHMAHGOD right?!

This was insane! Fashion shows are essentially what fashion is all about isn’t it? The channeling of
the fantasy and thought behind the clothes to a wider audience; Bringing
the clothes to life! And this being my first fashion show, it was one
helluva momentous event!

WEET WEET! And NO! I didn’t oversleep for this one! (Not like the Ashley Isham one! Oh shit I’m going to be meeting Ashley
Isham soon I think… I hope he didn’t read that!)

Anyways… I didn’t know about Female/Nuyou magazines before this fashion show… and
I sure didn’t know that they do these kinda fashion shows… *sorry
Female/Nuyou*

BUT BOY!!!

Was I excited OR WHAT?! There were great brands lined up… such as Aigner, Sonia by Sonia Rykiel *OH YES! Momma Rykiel was
showing! Just that she wasn’t personally there…*, Dame Westwood’s
diffusion line, “Anglomania by Vivienne Westwood” along with some
others… And I would be sitting right there! In the front row! Soaking
it all up! And fulfilling not only the true purpose of a
fashion-blogger, but also my little own personal goal! *It’s every
fashion-lover’s dream to be at a fashion show!*

Well initially, when I reached at like 6.30pm… I was EXCITED as
hell!

Well the set definitely wasn’t anything like a McQueen one (was futuristic-gimmicky and way too
clinical) But whatever! My first fashion show!!! *Naive wide-eyed
blogger voice!* And at least they had a good set-up!

I was so psyched! I wanted to run up onto the catwalk and strut my own little
THANG! Werq it babeh! Werq it! Do the Tyra Banks SMIIZEEEE!

Until…

30 minutes passed – 7PM

45 minutes passed – 7.15PM

1 hour passed – 7.30PM

1 and a 1/2 hour passed – 8.00PM (show finally starts)

WHAT!

“Such arrogance!” – Suzy Menkes

(If I quoted her correctly…)

The show started at 8pm. Bobo sat there for 1 and a half hours looking like a fool before the show started. Not that it was a
bad thing… maybe.

Hahaha at least I wasn’t all that HYPER when the fashion show began! I was all pissy and cool! ANNA WINTOUR STYLE BABEH!
That’s how you werq the fashion shows! All I needed was a pair of Chanel
sunglasses! Or perhaps Maison Martin Margiela ones like BryanBoy!

Ooo speaking of that! I saw David Gan at the show… He was the usual him… bald, cap,
BUT! He had these really cool Maison Martin Margiela shades on him,
which looked like a glass screen over his eyes… because they didn’t
shape his eye/nose area… but just smacked on like television screens.
Prettay funkay. He looked like a freakazoid… but I guess that was the
point.

OKAY SEE! That was how bored I was waiting for the damn show to start! I started to
“people-watch”, and scrutinize their outfits! And then started thinking
about whether I would actually get to meet Sonia Rykiel and Vivienne
Westwood (which obviously did NOT happen cause they WEREN’T here!) and
lame stuff like that.

See that’s me in the crowd! Sticking out like a sore thumb in a sea of black! Blue for the win
baby!

OH! And don’t even get me started on the crowd there!

Half of it was like… some corporate event crowd – you know, the type who dress in tacky polo
t-shirts or sports shirts, with khaki trousers and sports shoes… like
they’re gonna fucking do a marathon on the runway. AND! They lugged
along their entire family. Including little girls who sat at the front
row and fell asleep. Err.

And the other half were just local chichi “celebrity” community… with poser-posh-people… *Yawn!*

*Angst angst*

So essentially, Bobo was getting impatient and becoming all
Anna-Wintour-talk-to-me-I-rip-your-head-off!

But alas!

Fur! In this weather! Haha. Pity you dear.

The stereo was on full-blast! The lights were fiercely bright! The runway was lit! It started!

And Bobo was in the right-runway mood! Cool, calm and collected! And a lil’ bitchy.

The models soon emerged! And it was ON baby! *Bouncing in my seat!* *Oh wait! I mean
cool, calm and collected!*

1st up!

ALL DRESSED UP

That’s me again!

And again!

And again!

How did I take photos when I was actually down there?!

Dependable Awesome Dootzie

Sorry if our photos weren’t all that great. I was sorta busy soaking it all up and
couldn’t be bothered to take pictures of EVERY outfit since I forgot to
bring my camera. YES I FORGOT! STOP LAUGHING AT ME!

Anyways, being a local fashion label, I think AllDressedUp has done pretty well for
itself! Last I heard, they were going global! Which is a
prettay-big-deal for a local brand, especially since we only have like
Andrew Gn and Ashley Isham representing Singapore in the global fashion
arena. *Wow I sounded so damn patriotic then*

For this collection, it wasn’t telling much of a story… but rather just showcasing pieces which
seemed largely influenced by pop-art… The prints and the colours (with
like the magazine/newspaper/poster pictures/headlines on them) reminded
me a little bit of Nicholas Ghesquire, along with Proenza Schouler and
Marc Jacobs (More of the Marc by Marc Jacobs than the Marc Jacobs one).
The collection was fun, flirty, vibrant and modern, exceptionally
executed. However… I didn’t feel like it was breaking any new
boundaries. Great wearable, pretty pieces which would probably turn
heads at a party. But nothing felt funky-fresh or amazingly new to me.
Very been-there-done-that… And if I see one of these pieces in like a
few months, I doubt I’d recognise it as an AllDressedUp piece.

Next!

NEU LOOK

Military + Rocker + Brit = This collection.

Prettay boring. It was like they were just copy and pasting what’s largely already been seen on the runways.

And it looked like stuff I could easily pull out from Topshop. Then again, it is Neu
Look.

And since the models were all strutting so freaking swiftly past me, it all just faded
from my wonder memorium to a land called… THE PLACE WHERE
EASILY-FORGOTTEN-BORING-THINGS-GO!

Bye bye.

3rd!

ISLAND SHOP

Well!!! Honestly I can’t remember much about this one. Actually, my memory is pretty fuzzy about all the
collections! Especially since my camera sucks, I forgot to take pics of
all the looks, I forgot to bring a notebook (only to get paper from the
restaurant I had dinner at later), AND the bloody models were walking so
fast that everything became fuzzy-wuzzy. But I do remember that I liked
this one ALOT. It was sort of tribal/Indian… (definitely not
Maharaja, but more of just Indian culture as a whole) which you could
tell from the details if the images weren’t so crappy and also the track
that went on. Tribal + Indian made modern. Very very nice. Everything
was sort of slouchy and baggy, a little bit disheveled with a bit more
embellishments… it was an intriguing collection. But the fact that I
can’t remember most of it should say something as well. Oops.

4th

LEVI’S

Yawn.

NEXT!

5th

T.M LEWIN

The clothes were boring. And I didn’t get the crazy hair paired with the office outfits. Juxtaposition?
Paradox? Wild working adults? Yawn. It was vague and inconsistent
anyways. And I’m really really REALLY not a fan of office-suits and
shit.

ALSO!

They’re meant to specialise in shirts and suits, but their suits looked so baggy,
poorly tailored and tacky! You know how those really tall guys (like
Lurch of the Addams family) can’t really fit into normal-sized suits so
they get those EXTRA large ones which are like specially and poorly
tailored just for them. And then they think they’re so tall, they
usually get even LONGER trousers to try and fit their legs, and then it
ends up being so tall that it sags and looks like sagging-granny-skin or
something? And it just ends up that everything is so overtly
gigaginormic that it drowns the ultra-big man… It’s REALLY gross. And
that’s precisely how the T.M Lewin suits came across. Poorly executed
and tacky.

“MY EYES ARE SOBBING FOR BEAUTY!” – Andre Leon Talley

And beauty is what I got…

From there on out, it was like the REAL fashion show finally begun!

1ST! WE HAVE THE ONE! THE ONLY!!! *Metal Punks roar!*

ANGLOMANIA BY VIVIENNE WESTWOOD!

That’s me!

And YES! Those are angel wings on the shoes! How cool right?!

This one was consistent with her Fall/Winter 2010 show for the main line, Vivienne Westwood! And I mean
very VERY consistent. It’s like they tumbled down a hill again and
grabbed whatever they could from the houses that they tumbled through!
Just that this one wasn’t as interesting a
hill as the previous one for fall! And that this one was more for
our tropical climate… In fact, in a very funky way it felt sort of
disheveled-beach-chic. Like they had those plastic-y women’s golf
caps and hairbands and elevated sandal-y platforms. Also, their hair
was all over the place like some massive ginormic gust of wind blew
everything away! And messing up their clothes like crazy… since
everything seemed slouchy here, not-so-perfectly put on, and just very
oh-it’s-the-beach-let’s-throw-on-a-towel kinda vibe. Of course, there
were also a few glammed up pieces which didn’t reek of evening, but
would be perfect for a nice lil’ cocktail party in a very Westwood
fashion. Very very nice. Disheveled chic for the win! Definitely one of
my favourites in the “Catwalk Collection”

2nd! *Trumpets sound!!!* And you guys are gonna loove this one!

SONIA BY SONIA RYKIEL

*God I love pronouncing the word Rykiel!*

God I love this model like some cray-cray-crayzee-crayfish! She was smiling the whole time! Sure it
felt a bit phony at first! But Sonia Rykiel’s clothes are all about fun!
And her smile just shone through with the clothes! Even when her hair
was like a puffball. WAY TO GO GURL!

That’s me being all Anna-Wintour-cool!

Whaddup! to the resurgence of the Marie Antoinette doppelgangers! Just that this time they were REALLYYY
smiley and definitely not how Marie was when her head got chopped off.
Oops.

Anyways! Hahaha! I loved this collection so much! Quite literally I was smiling
and laughing to myself in my seat. Which of course made the little girl
seating beside me go like… “What the hell is up with that crazy
fatass!” I’m like “Don’t sass me little bee-yo-etch! I wasn’t the one
sleeping away with my mouth wide open and sallivating all over my mum!”
Okay fine maybe I made that up. But WHATEVER!

The collection was so upbeat, so youthful, and most importantly, MEGA JUBILANT! I mean all the models
were smiling like their faces had been kept in that shape thanks to
over-injection of Botox… which was sorta scary, but the make-up and
clothes made up for that! Heck, some of them seemed like they were even
skipping along! That was how amazingly jovial and youthful it was!
Anyways, the clothes were kept sweet and modern, without trying too hard
to be trendy or fashionable. It had that very Rykiel casual, cool and
quirky touch! There were even cute, girly little plastic (I think)
flower petals stitched onto them! Even the work-wear pieces had like
flowery-prints and neon-green tights! But it wasn’t just that
sweet-naive-little-girl who smiled all the time. Actually, I think
little girl was sort of Lolita… I mean her tops were sometimes
slouching such that it sexily revealed some skin… and there were a few
black translucent tops (I think… I remember seeing a few
see-through-translucent pieces somewhere) which allowed us to peek in
and quite literally see her lingerie… and then there were also little
zippers at the bottom of the skirt which ran up the side of her legs…
just waiting to be unzipped. Very sexy! *NO! I wasn’t being
horny-donkey*

Overall, I think it was a collection about the fusion between the little girl within, and the matured lady (girly + fun + feminine). I
mean the clothes were youthful, casual and modern. And yet there weren’t
little tank tops and jeans. Rather they were more matured and
sophisticated… casual, cool work wear pieces and evening wear. Just
that these were dipped in that quirky, youthful pot of Rykiel mojo, and a
little sexed-up. Definitely not raunchy or slutty, just sexy! Showing a
little and never too much.

Fabulous show overall! Casual, cool, chic, quirky, modern, matured, sexy, feminine, girly, vibrant, jovial! *I wanted to
make it short and concise. But the collection packed a lot of punches!
And I loved every punch they threw at me!*

3rd!

LIZ CLAIBORNE

Americana baby! Very very americana! Specifically the 1950s! I mean you could literally see Audrey
Hepburn or Marilyn Monroe in any of those outfits! If they were going
to the beach of course… Big hats, bandana on head with sunglasses,
blouses tied into a knot right above the belly, cardigans won over the
shoulders and hands not tucked into the sleeves… Cardigans wrapped
nonchalantly round the neck and left to act like a cape at the back.
Very very Americana. Like something from a 50s movie or something you
know? Like Audrey Hepburn’s “Roman Holiday” or something…

Anyways it was a very retro show for me… casual chic but still full of poise and
elegance. Very wearable pieces, very relaxed silhouettes, and still very
very chic. I particularly loved the references to American culture…
with the cardigans worn over the shoulders, and the hands tucked
underneath instead of going through the sleeves… and the cardigans
wrapped round the neck and flung over the back… very very nice
touches. Nothing very much new… but great retro-chic pieces overall.

Well there were two more shows… Etro and Aigner… but I think I’ll just cover Aigner
now. Since Etro continued with it’s decadent… simply WEIRD (not in a
good way) prints which were very signature Etro, but provided nothing
really new. And also because my computer is too screwed up to upload
useless pictures… SO!

FINALLY!

AIGNER

Favourite piece in the entire Aigner collection!

Glammed up luxe.

With slight allusions to aviator-references. It was a very luxurious, sumptuous
collection overall… fur, leather, embellishments, decorations… the
works. And I guess there’s nothing much more I can say… just that it
was very very luxe and up-market. Not to say that the clothes weren’t
gorgeous… they were! Just that it didn’t offer anything new… or
refreshing… just another luxury label.

Overall though, I thoroughly enjoyed this night of AWESOME fashion shows! It was da-da-dazzling and
gla-gla-glamorous and ca-ca-crazee!

Sure the people there weren’t the Anna Wintours or Cayth Horyns… mostly just badly dressed corporate
people who looked like they were going to have a picnic and run on the
runway… and a few poseur-chichi-local-celebrities who think they’re
ALL that after conquering a teenee-weenee island with not much
competition. Yucks.

BUT! Most of the clothes were amazing and reflected what’s being shown on the runways of the 4 fashion capitals of the
world!

AND AND! I got to see Anthony Bourdain at the end of it! He was dressed in an
oversized t-shirt and slippers… Hahaha but at least I got a glimpse of
him! I was so psyched! I almost wanted to go up to him! Until I got
distracted and he disappeared.

Anyways, my top 3 collections of the night!

1. Anglomania by Vivienne Westwood
2. Sonia by Sonia Rykiel
3. All Dressed Up

And my top 3 learning points of the night!

1. The models are really tall and sexy… Mhmm. Don’t get distracted. PAY
   ATTENTION TO THE SHOE PORN THOUGH! (Like the Vivienne Westwood angel
   wings platform sandals which I almost missed)
2. Bring a notebook otherwise you usually forget everything you see…
3. Get a time-slowing-machine because all the models strut so goddamn FAST! I could barely keep up! FASHION MOVES BLOODY FAST!

Great first fashion show! With front-row tickets!

ALSO I ACCOMPLISHED THE GREATEST PERSONAL FEAT SO FAR! I ACTUALLY WENT TO MY
FIRST FASHION SHOW, TOOK IN ALMOST EVERYTHING, AND EFFECTIVELY REVIEWED
IT! MAKING THIS MY GREATEST POST EVER AND OFFICIALLY MAKING ME A
FASHION BLOGGED!

WEET WEET!

Now off to dream and doodle about Paris Fashion Week. Ciao!

P.S This was about Saturday Night’s fashion show… but I could only finish
the post today because my pictures took forever to upload.

LINK LOVE:The Blue Boy In The Blue McQueen Scarf Learns That Fashion Moves Very Fast!

CONTRIBUTE:Join Envy to Add Your Own Stories

LINK: “Viva Las Vegas Rockabilly Weekend” – Dita von Teese In Vintage Vivienne Westwood

Add Your Own Stories on ENVY The Fashion Network

Hong Kong Fashion Week is an amazing presentation of forward thinking designers like Guo Pei, Ontfront, and Dorian Ho. The event was overseen by the Creative Director of Vivienne Westwood, Andreas Kronthaler. The man behind on of the most fearless labels on the planet gives us an interview on the joys of fashion on the eastern front.

Some insane, back-flipping puss sans boots decided to attack Vivienne Westwood during her final runway walk. We’ve got the video.

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Vivienne Westwood’s Red Label show hit the London runway on Sunday. The clothes were sooo signature Viv Westwood, with tons of punk touches, plaid, and layers galore.

Gallery on NY Mag