Become a walking piece of art. Nicholas Kirkwood's Scribble-Flower heels bring his sketches to life in a very literal way.

Go electric with blocked colors in the new neon hues.

Can't drop seven Benjamins on light bright tootsies? Try this blinder from

Layered beads at the ankle shake exoticism with each step.

Starring in plastic, on a gold platform, these sexy Charlotte Olympia pumps are also a trick of the eye.

Go candy colored in luminous pastels. Christian Louboutin will ensure your sole is still red.

Well now I know where Jeffrey Campbell might have been inspired for my Peruvian-esque printed woven wicker heeled shoe. This Lanvin shoe took the theme all the way with braided leather. The rest of my JC is all plastic.

Not only will your feet be vibrantly wedged, but they'll also be elasticized into place by the architects at United Nude.

Go geometrically striped in a darker than bubblegum pink for a solid summer jogging shoe. Now that's a statement.

Heathrow Airport, London
Getting stuck in Heathrow is a shopper’s dream. The T3 terminal shopping center stands up to central London with stores like Mulberry, Zara, Reiss, Dior, Hermes and Harrods. Once you’re done spending all your money, the art museum is a free cultural fix in Terminal 5. Need a nap after all that? Check into the Yotel in Terminal 4 starting at £25 for four hours.

Munich Airport, Germany
Beer gardens, gambling and spas. Need I say more?

When leopard, sequins and a strappy open back join forces, the perfect dress lives.

The perfect comfy top for stumbling down to brunch.

Pair these glitzy gold sequined shoes with jeans and a tee for a fun daytime look.

Take a tip from J.Lo and rock this ultra-mini skirt for a sexy nighttime look.

Throw your money away in style with this blindingly shiny wallet.

Nothing says glamorous like a $7,000 purse shaped like a dog.

Show the Blackjack dealer you mean business with this handsome buttoned-up accessory.

If you have questions about Zara +Connect, visit Zara.com.

Bohemian fringe has never looked so luxe.

Not for the shy dresser, these color-block beauties make a statement loud and clear.

Italian leather with chic and glamorous gold details - what's not to love?

A square toe makes brown suede extremely handsome.

The clever color blocking of merlot and black leather makes these knee-high boots suitable for any occasion.

Olive leather gets a stacked heel and elastic gusset sides for a look that's purely cool.

Beautiful brown leather gets a big sexy platform and pin-thin heel.

Show everyone how much business you mean with this badass, studded leather pair.

Burgundy suede gets a 70s vibe with laces and tassels.

Keep your toes warm in these boots, and the rest of your body will thank you.

If you just can't get over your jeans then there is a simple solution: denim washed khakis. They'll give you the jean feel with the versatility of an actual pant.

The best pants accessory definitely has to be the suspender. That being said these trousers come their own pair of removable ones. What more can a guy ask for?

A wool pant is also on trend during the colder weather months and are guaranteed to keep you warm.

Harem pants are definitely for those guys on the cutting edge of fashion since most would never dare to step out of the house in these. A solid black is pretty versatile but if you want more fun feel free to play with colors and patterns.

Another classic mens pant is the chino. Again if you're bolder add a drop crotch and call it a day.

These pants are super sleek and sexy. (Not a word usually connected with mens trousers) The super slim pocket openings and faux leather paneling set these off in a major way.

Spice up your cords with one of this season's must have colors: mustard. Cords are an essential for any man's closet. If you're not that into the mustard trend a nice brown or tan will always suffice.

Remember those days when cargo pants were a major fashion faux pas? Not anymore! You can add as many pockets as you like to these slim pants and look super trendy while being able to carry a million things in your pants.

When did you learn the solution to maintaining a proper closet? 

Haven’t yet. However, my goal when working with each individual client is to find what solutions will work best for them and their wardrobes/personal style.

 What’s the smartest piece you own? 

Jèrôme Dreyfuss red ‘Billy’ bag. It’s oh-so big and bright.

What’s the piece that no one should live without?

Excellent sunglasses.

What do you find are the most typically purged items?

Dresses.

When do you find yourself talking a closet purger out of relinquishing an item?

That happens a lot, actually. Often times if something hangs in our closet’s long enough we can become blind to it’s amazingness. If this is the case for a client, it is my duty to step in, make sure they hold on to it and offer them guidance on an updated way to wear it.

What’s one item everybody needs to discard?

Anything too tight – just let it go.

Which designer has the best collection for supplementing a wardrobe with basics?

Raquel Allegra and Zara

What are your top 5 accessories that will reinvent a wardrobe?

New hair color and/or eyebrow color, vintage piece from a loved one, obnoxious watch, a bright handbag, and a smile.

Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Cambridge Catherine Middleton wearing Zara in Berkshire

- Hermès apparently wanted to tap noted sculptor Helmut Lang to replace Jean Paul Gaultier after the latter left in 2010, but the former wanted to shred clothes, not make them. [Fashionologie]

- New York’s kinda foxy governor, Andrew Cuomo, reportedly hired the stylist from girlfriend Sandra Lee‘s “cooking show,” Semi-Homemade Cooking to do his makeup during his campaign. To the tone of $1383.86 [NYT]

- Speaking of money well-spent, the National Institutes of Health used tax dollars to conduct a study on gay men’s penis size and how it effects their sexual health: Those who felt they had an inadequate penis are more likely to be psychologically troubled and anal receptive—or “bottoms”—while those with larger penises usually identify themselves as “tops.” Meanwhile, a quick run-through of Manhunt would have unearthed the same conclusion. [Jezebel]

- Amancio Ortega, the richest man in Spain, is stepping down as chairman of Zara, which he founded in 1975. [The Cut]

- While at the premiere of Friends with Benefits, sounds like one WWD reporter was less than enthused about stars Mila Kunis and Justin Timberlake‘s behavior. To wit: Mila Kunis wore a red, tight Lanvin dress and the watchful gaze of an exceptionally beefy bodyguard, who dissuaded revelers from speaking with her. “She doesn’t want to talk,” the guard explained, “to anybody. ”

And: Timberlake didn’t particularly seem to want to be with anybody. Visibly pained, the singer-turned-actor had forced a mile-wide grin for the press on the red carpet. “I think it’s a good movie?” Timberlake offered through clenched teeth. Sounds like someone hasn’t had any friends or benefits in a while.  [WWD]

- Borders, my favorite bookstore chain — suck it, Barnes & Noble –  is closing all of its 399 stores, including the six in NYC because no one reads anymore. [Racked]

Rucksacks - Perfect for music festivals and adventure-filled getaways, these backpacks will ensure your belongings stay near.

Clockwise from top left:
Billionaire Boys Club Miawaiian Night Rucksack $410, fashionbeans.com

Roxy Creative Peak Rucksack $46, zappos.com

Gucci Classic Logo Rucksack $935, profilebrighton.co.uk

Zara Kit Bag Rucksack $29.90, zara.com

Topshop Tan Washed Oversize Rucksack $75, us.topshop.com

Weekenders - Great for a three-day getaway, these carryalls will have you traveling to the best weekend destinations in high style.

Clockwise from top left:
Fossil Key-Per Weekender $138, macys.com

Billykirk x Opening Ceremony Red Stripe Carryall $300, openingceremony.us

Robe di Firenze Italian Leather Carry All Travel Bag $622, forzieri.com

Design Within Reach Masonry Weekender Bag $150 – $175, dwr.com

Betsey Johnson Betsey Babe Weekender $148, betseyjohnson.com

Totes - Everyone needs a good tote for farmer’s market shopping, camera carrying and extra shoe stowing, even on vacation.

Clockwise from top:
Bamboula Ltd. Market Tote $58, madewell.com

Kate Spade New York Felice Tote $295, couture.zappos.com

Azzedine Alaïa Beige Petal Shape Perforated Leather Tote $2,284, montaignemarket.com

Marc by Marc Jacobs Lucy Ostrich-Effect PVC Tote $400, net-a-porter.com

Kate Spade New York Cabana Stripe Medium Raelin $325, katespade.com

Crossbodies - Whether at a summer concert or just out for the night, a crossbody bag is small and easy to carry on all your getaways.

Clockwise from top left:
Rebecca Minkoff ‘Double Rocker’ Crossbody Bag $330, nordstrom.com

Lodis Cayman Cameron Crossbody $158, lodis.com

See By Chloé Poya Small Crossbody Bag $330, harveynichols.com

Armani Exchange Wood Frame Crossbody Bag $88, armaniexchange.com

Hype Handbag Ellie Crossbody Bag $131, macys.com

If you like what you see, tweet at me @CrystlMeatballs and tell me your favorites. What is your go-to bag for summer traveling?

To the office – There is nothing like a crisp, white shirt to show the world you’re in control. Pair it with a pencil skirt, power blazer and sexy heels to maximize its workplace potential.

Balmain Single Breasted Blazer $2,316, farfetch.com
Matthew Williamson Blu Pencil Leather Skirt $795, stylebop.com
Pierre Hardy Ankle Boots $1,190, thecorner.com

At the beach - Cute and comfortable, a breezy white shirt worn open over your bathing suit is a super chic beach look. A colorful bikini, embellished sandals and protective sun hat are perfect for a light lunch outside by the water.

Nine West Straw Floppy Hat $36, ninewest.com
Mara Hoffman Embroidered Bikini $334, matchesfashion.com
Steve Madden Guesst Leather Sandal $90, heels.com

Weekend brunch – What’s more adorable than putting a vintage spin on your favorite weekend dress with a loose white shirt? Take the shirttails and knot them around your waist for a carefree look. A bright pair of heels and cool sunglasses will top it off.

Topshop Black Rounded Flat Top Sunglasses $36, topshop.com
Valentino Lace Trimmed Dress $5,468, farfetch.com
Zara Satin Platform Sandal $99.90, zara.com
What are your favorite ways to wear a simple white shirt? How do you make it yours?

Top to bottom, left to right: White derby hat – Melissa Obadash, Blue braided belt – Zara, Zip-up cape (back: “Love is the answer”) – Wildfox Couture, Rose patterned patriot – Filthy Magic, Red burst fascinator – CC, Read between the Lines – Moschino, Universe spangled skirt – Christopher Kane, Red print skinnies – Isabel Marant, Red ‘n’ white stripe jeans – Balmain, American floral capri – Topshop, Red stripe slouch – Sass & Bide, Star studded boot – Michael Antonio, 50 star strappies – Lovers + Friends, Red clear cats eye – Dorothy Perkins, Blue frame shades – Thierry Lasry

Now get dressed, and join the pandemonium in the streets near you if you must. And keep safe.

While Harper’s Bazaar tackled the online counterfeit debacle at their recent Anti-Counterfeiting Summit, New York is getting all sorts of serious about the topic of fakes. New York City council member Margaret Chin is championing a bill that would criminalize the purchase of fake trademarked items. In layman’s terms: Buy a fake bag, go to jail.

“The bill targets those people who purchase goods that they know are counterfeit,” says Chin.

Fake bag street vendors line Canal Street and crawl through Soho and Chinatown, making it at once a destination and a trap for tourists, and are a serious nuisance to those who live there. They cost NYC over $1 billion in tax revenue and all for what? To make you look tacky, that’s what.

Counterfeit is Ugly

This past Tuesday, top editors, PR firms, designers, and guests of honor from the Mayors office gathered under one collective roof at the Harper’s Bazaar 7th annual Anti-Counterfeit Summit. While dining on delicacies like truffle risotto balls, a panel of experts spoke about the dangers and harms of counterfeit goods.  Frank Abagnale, one of the world’s most respected authorities on the subject (seeing that he lived the part which was interpreted in the hit book, movie, and now Broadway show Catch Me If You Can), Susan Engel, CE of Portero Luxury, an internet retailer of luxury goods, and Thomas Onda the chief of intellectual property at Levi’s were all on the panel to educate us on how the counterfeit industry funds terrorism, child labor malpractice, and fuels the drug industry.  Judging by the surprised and horrified looks on everyone’s faces, counterfeit goods seem to be a battle that can mostly be won through mere awareness and education.

What can you do? Instead of buying fake, get a bag that no one has ever seen. Find one in a local store, go vintage, go to the biggies like Urban Outfitters or Zara, or save up for the real deal!

This two toned square long strapped brief takes hints, not verbatim notes from Louis Vuitton.

Loving the Marc Jacobs quilted chained crossbody on the right, but not its pricetag? Find a piece like this orange bag with chains and metal detailing. It shouldn’t be exact.

Looking for a specific color leather? There are less ornate bags than your beloved Gucci. Get the simple version, then add your own flare later.

Now you’ve been warned: Do not pass go, do not collect a Gucci bag for 30 dollars. Chances are, you’ll go directly to jail.

1. Spying on your man in church. You never know when pulling a Carrie Bradshaw and spying on your own Mister Big is going to take you into God’s house. Make sure you’re prepared with wrist gloves and a Sunday hat that will knock his mother off her pew. For a colorful, sophisticated look, try Linea Large Brim Spikey Feather Hat, Nordstrom ‘Drama’ Wide Brim Straw Hat and Kaliko Bright Pink Straw Bow Hat.

2. Cruising on a doomed ship. Vacationers on the Titanic didn’t know about their impending fate, so they were all riding the fabulous high horse. But you don’t need to choose a sinking ship to look as remarkable as they because these fine boating hats will do just fine. For a more traditional look, try the Linea Stripe Bow Tilted Hat or John Lewis Women Stripe Floppy Hat with Bow. If you want a modern take for your summer boating adventures, Vans I’m on a Boat Straw Boater and Eugenia Kim Honey Striped Toyo Sun Hat are great options.

3. Shopping. A lady would never have entered Tiffany & Co. without a hat in Audrey Hepburn’s day – how slovenly! Channel your inner socialite while perusing the Goodwill by covering that risque head of yours. Either the Louis Vuitton Mink Bell-Hat, Vintage 1960 Black & White Sparkle Bow Cloche Hat or Brenda Lynn Audrey Hat will do.

4. At the doctor’s office. If anyone knows how to seduce, it’s Sophia Loren, especially when she is after a man playing hard to get. You too can feel sexy and chic getting your yearly check-up by channeling her look ala The Millionairess. These will all look fabulous with your corset: MARKET Red Floppy Hat, Brenda Lynn Milan Boater Hat, French Connection Spice Blush Floppy Hat and Nordstrom Floppy Ribbon Sun Hat.

5. Boozing. Hats, headbands, it’s all the same in casinos and speakeasies. Breaking boundaries with nonpareil style, flappers knew how to look fantastic while drinking the Devil’s elixir. Though not quite hats, these hairpieces will get you the look and the swagger. Try Colette Malouf Mesh Puff Flower Crocodile Clip, Zara 1920s Style Headband, Dorothy Perkins Brown Feather With Bead Centre Stretch Headband or Mother Plucker Red and Purple Side Feather Headband and get your drank on.

6. Mourning the loss of ruined winter shoes. It happens to us every year in the land of snow, sleet and freezing rain. We sacrifice a pair of shoes to keep our feet dry and warm. Although tragic, you can mourn your favorite defunct footwear in style by channeling superstar mob wives like Carmela Soprano, Sandra Corleone and Rosalie Aprile. Black and dramatic is the way to go with styles like these: Misaharada Valeska Hat, Comme des Garçons Bow Detail Hat and Lanvin Swarovski Crystal Pin-Embellished Straw Hat.

7. Frolicking and/or walking on water. Wouldn’t we all love to live in Mary Poppins’ wonderful world of animated fantasy? The answer is obviously yes. And although this may not be possible in a city as grimy as New York, you can still frolic about, wherever you are, in a bonnet of fantastic allure. Kokin White Rose Feathered Silk Hat, Bonnets 1870′S Bandeau Hat and Vintage Vine and Big Blossom Straw Hat will have you flying high like the whimsical Poppins herself.

Clockwise from top:
Giuseppe Zanotti GE1002 $650 – zappos.com

Zara Two-Toned Wide-Heeled Sandal $149 – zara.com

Topshop FABIO Chestnut Buckle Cuff Sandals $85 – topshop.com

Topshop Wizard Green Suede Wedges $140 – topshop.com

Moschino Platform Sandals $595 – moschinoboutique.com

Loeffler Randall Suno Erin Lace-Up Wedge $645 – loefflerrandall.com

Sergio Rossi Aztec Laser Cut Suede Booties $870 – intermixonline.com

Camilla Skovgaard Cutout Leather Platform Sandals $545 – net-a-porter.com

H&M Metallic Purple Sandals - shop.hm.com

Casadei Platform Sandals $890 – thecorner.com

While Haute Couture is highly celebrated on the red carpet, many fashion insiders seem confused over the true concept of the term.

In order to best understand, I like to refer to the designer pyramid, where haute couture is positioned above all else. While haute couture designs that are featured on the runway, may sometimes resemble artwork more than wearable fashions, they are in fact the inspiration for almost every piece of clothing you will ever purchase. When these collections are created, they set the standards for what will filter down to designers such as Prada, Dolce & Gabanna, Marc Jacobs and Diane Von Furstenberg, who then create prêt-a-porter (ready-to-wear) collections. Many designers have couture departments; an example would be Atelier Versace. An extension of Versace, the atelier (tailoring workshop) creates many of the long evening gowns and one-of-a-kind designs that are made to order to fit an individual’s body like a second skin. One step down from designers who have runway collections, are retailers such as Zara, Mango, Karen Millen, Reiss and Bebe. These stores have a higher turnover of clothing production and their designs are often copied from the ready–to-wear runway shows. Eventually, all of this is filtered down to companies such as Primark, Kmart and Wal-Mart, who mass-produce clothing that consumers can purchase for the fraction of the cost of the original design.

The origin of couture dates back to mid-nineteenth century Paris, when Empress Eugénie elicited the dressmaking services of Charles Frederick Worth, an English designer who was known for his luxurious choice of fabrics, sumptuous trimmings and attention to detail. Her refined tastes set the style of the court and won Worth the title of Europe’s very first Couturier. Before long, Worth was patronized by many titled, rich and notable women. Being a savvy businessman, he took advantage of the growing demand for his work by opening a showroom, La Maison de Couture in Paris. Interested buyers would come to view his latest pieces on live models and order their garment of choice. Worth would then recreate the chosen garment in his atelier, modifying it to the client’s taste and precise measurements. This business model provided the foundation for modern day couture.

Worth has not only been credited for being the inventor of couture, but also for inventing the modern day press kit. Before the photographic era, he was the first to promote his work by sending out miniature dolls wearing his designs, which journalists then reproduced as illustrations, thus creating the original fashion editorials.

Haute couture, when translated, simply means high dressmaking, but is the most celebrated fashion honor. In France, the term is protected by law and defined by the Chambre de Commerce et d’Industrie de Paris. There are currently only eleven official members and three correspondent (foreign) members of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, all of whom have been invited for membership and must follow certain rules in order to use the term in their advertising.  Within this set of rules, each house is expected to operate a Paris-based atelier and show two full (thirty five pieces) collections, twice a year. These shows, which make up Paris Couture Week, are held during January and July and are not to be confused with the regular ‘fashion week’ which showcase the ready-to-wear collections.

Kirten Lea at Armani Privé – Video Direction by Durrant Kellogg

Armani Privé, Valentino and Chanel are among the names currently boasting the most prestigious empires. Many see the stunning dresses featured on the red carpet, but are unsure as to how one would go about purchasing one. I recall seeing what would be my first haute couture gown, worn by Katie Holmes at her wedding reception. Even on the dimensionless page of a magazine, the dress spoke to me, implanting what would become a deep passion and lasting appetite for couture. It was only in my quest to purchase a gown of my own, did I learn that the ceremonious process by which one procures a couture dress proves as intricate, as the design itself.

Most designer stores, such as Giorgio Armani, are not closely connected to their couture house, and therefore it is mandatory for a new client to have a formal introduction to the atelier.  This will usually require a new client to fly to Rome, Paris or Milan simply to view the look book. If one is interested in a particular gown, then that dress must also be flown in from wherever it is in the world, at that particular time.

Originally made for runway models, each sample garment is a prototype made specifically for runway models. This means they are made for women who are at least 5’10” tall, extremely slim, with almost no bust and a long back. The sample garments are later fashioned with elastic rigging, so to accommodate clients with more curves than zero.

It is at the atelier, where one discusses any modifications, to ensure that a dress will suit the client perfectly. The couturiers have great wisdom regarding which colors, necklines, hemlines and silhouettes enhance each individual body size and shape. And, when you’re buying a dress that costs in the region of $160,000, it doesn’t hurt to seek professional consultation. Ordering couture is about teamwork and creativity, a process in which the customer is a vital part.

Haute Couture garments often require three or four fittings. While it is helpful if the client remains the same size, the very nature of a fitting is to continually adjust the garment to fit one’s body like a second skin, so it is expected that women may lose or gain a little weight, particularly if they are leading up to an important event. By the end of the fittings, no matter how revealing a dress may appear to be, you will feel completely comfortable and secure wearing it.

Usually more so than any other dress you have ever worn.

With an estimated 2,000 people worldwide who still purchase haute couture, but as few as 150 individuals who are regarded as regular clientele, designers go to great lengths to build a sense of loyalty amongst their clients. Giorgio Armani, for example, hosted intimate dinners during which clients are brought together to share their passion for, knowledge of, and experiences with couture. The attendees are not the spoiled individuals some might expect. We share our thoughts on the latest collections and what we believe inspired them. We discuss plans to attend upcoming shows and most importantly, we rely upon each other to compare experiences of buying from one designer over another.

The 2011 Official List of Members of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture

Adeline André

Anne Valérie Hash

Atelier Gustavolins

Chanel

Christian Dior

Christophe Josse

Franck Sorbier

Givenchy

Jean-Paul Gautier

Maurizio Galante

Stéphane Rolland

Correspondent (Foreign) Members

Elie Saab

Giorgio Armani

Valentino

Maison Martin Margiela

Invited Members

Alexandre Vauthier

Alexis Mabille

Bouchra Jarrar

Julien Fournié

Lefrant Ferrant

Maison Rabih Kayrouz

Maxime Simoëns

Watch Video Here

We began the fashion search at Maguire Steele, the PR company that represents Timo Weiland, a designer we thought would evoke their clean cut hippiness. We arrived to find access to not only Timo, but to the Shipley & Halmos and Billy Reid collections, and Duckie Brown shoes. What a lovely way to start the day. Jeff was surprised to find himself liking this salmon Shipley blazer and green saddle shoes by Duckie; once he put them on, he saw the magic in them. Color and fit; bright and tight. That’s the vision.

Playing the green Timo Weiland vertically striped cardigan against the horizontally striped Billy Reid shirt made for optical illusionism – perfect for on-stage psychedelia. We tried with two Shipley & Halmos ties, one a conglomeration of pin thin geometric shapes, the other made of a mustard velvet (which totally called for heavy petting). We’re taking all of it along.

In the looks above, note the Shipley and Halmos pants: crisp, paper thin, glowing blue. Jeff really dug the look and feel of them. This sparked our next stop – Zara. Known in the masculine for modestly priced, modernly cut suits, I thought he might find a pant with a similar fit. Unfortunately, no fancy pants there captured our attention quite like Shipleys; the drawback to going from such a quality level of design down to one of the quickest of the fast fashion powerhouses (2 week turnaround from sketch to shelf!).

We did however conquer his need for new jeans. Imagine, he’s never owned a pair of skinny jeans! FashionIndie’s first instinct was mustard, for its ability to bring a bright spice to the stage. The look on his face when Mustard Slim Cut Jeans were suggested was dubious to say the least. We insisted he give it a try. In the fitting room, dubious shifted to contemplation, and very quickly to impressed contentment. Sold! To the man in yellow. He liked the fit so much, he got them in heather black as well. (TIP – Gentlemen, go to Zara right now… they’re only $39!)

We perused the rest of rushed retail row on Broadway from Broome to Bleecker from Urban Outfitters to Uniqlo, but nothing was jumping out at us. Man, were we spoiled by the gorgeous goods at Maguire Steele. Plus, mass market seems no place to find pieces to encapsulate the unique Heavy Pets sound. Time to switch things up,take it down real low, down all the way to Brooklyn’s poppin’ top vintage haunt, Beacon’s Closet.

Our instructions for The Pet: grab anything that strikes you. With that we end up with armfuls psychedelic patterns, bronze grommets, cowboy flair and a polyester disaster that shall remain on the hanger.

We pruned the options, ready to take eight new/old shirts in their varying sizes back to the rest of The Heavy Pets. The first piece on the rack? Pierre Cardin, $18.95. He looked at it skeptically, FashionIndie looked at it delightedly on him; we managed to convince acception with the tidbit that Pierre Cardin did introduce The Beatles to the Nehru jacket. Done and done.

The full styling goes down around 6:00 p.m. this evening when they are done with the soundcheck. As they are musicians, and this is fashion, that time is of course a rough estimation. But when it happens, we’ll be live tweeting @FashionIndie & @JessicaLapidos.

Come to The Brooklyn Bowl tonight to see The Heavy Pets perform in their new digs. See you there!

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

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Contudo, tenho que mencionar que coloquei plus-sized entre aspas no parágrafo anterior porque – covenhamos – de tamanho “extra” muitas dessas peças não terão absolutamente nada. A falta de um sistema internacional – e até mesmo sistemas nacionais – de medidas para as peças de roupa criam uma verdadeira *salada* na cabeça dos compradores. Nos Estados Unidos, por exemplo, a discrepância parece ser cada vez maior: enquanto as cadeias de roupas de massa fazem peças com medidas cada vez maiores (eu, que antes vestia 6/8 agora visto 4 na GAP!), os grandes nomes internacionais fazem roupas cada vez menores. Por isso mesmo um tamanho 14 dessas marcas – considerado plus-sized na Saks – talvez seja equivalente a um 10, até mesmo 8 em outras lojas.

 
E isso não se restringe somente aos Estados Unidos. Aqui na Europa eu tenho que saber não só o tamanho em cada país (o sistema da Espanha difere da Itália, que difere da Alemanha e dos países escandinavos, que difere da Inglaterra) como tambem o das lojas. A Topshop é diferente da H&M, que é diferente da Zara, que por sua vez é diferente da Urban Outfitters. Ou seja: loucura completa e absoluta. E eu tenho consciência que eu sei as diferenças porque gosto e me envolvo com a moda. Para quem não é muito fã deve ser uma tortura infinitamente maior.

Além desse “pequeno” problema, outro fator importante que a Saks aparenta tentar resolver com sua nova empreitada é o da falta de discrepância entre a realidade e o idealizado. Designers podem adorar modelos magras e fazer peças para os desfiles que cabem num graveto, mas a verdade absoluta é que a imensa maioria de suas compradoras se espreme desesperadamente pra entrar num tamanho 38 ou 40. Compradoras estas com dinheiro de sobra para gastar, que entendem de moda e sabem muito bem onde e com quem gastar seu dinheiro e, mais importante, que QUEREM gastar seu dinheiro. A realidade é que o mundo ocidental engorda cada vez mais e os designers, se querem sobreviver (leia-se ter salário e continuar com seus empregos), tem que se adaptar a essa realidade – mesmo que o sonho deles seja vestir gravetinhos.

Faço um parêntesis para dizer que tenho amigas de todos os tamanhos. Sei que existem pessoas que são naturalmente magras – naturalmente MUITO magras, devo adicionar – e sei que existem pessoas que, por mais que tentem, nunca conseguirão ser um tamanho 38. Mesmo com muito exercício, muita boca fechada, lipoaspiração e/ou qualquer outra coisa. Porque seres humanos vem em tamanhos, cores e “modelos” diferentes. A única coisa que falta mesmo é a gente aceitar esse fato.

Não recomendo – e muito menos faço apologia! – à extrema magreza nem à obesidade. Ambos são doença e devem ser levados muito a sério. Dá pra ver pela história dos últimos 100 anos – período em que as pessoas pararam de passar fome e de ter dietas completamente malucas – que, na média, somos criaturas que tem um tamanho “médio”. Tipo um 40/42, sabe? Alguns mais, outros menos, claro… mas que esse tamanho é o nosso ideal para sobreviver. Crescer, trabalhar, produzir, reproduzir e perpetuar a espécie. Ambos os extremos de peso não auxiliam nessa evolução natural das coisas e por isso mesmo, não podem ser considerados “naturais”. Nem por nós mesmos e nem por ninguém.

Por isso é bom saber que a Saks resolveu vender roupas de tamanho mais “normal” para pessoas normais. Os tamanhos irão até o 14 norte-americano (equivalente – na teoria – ao nosso 46) e alguns irão até o tamanho 20. Esses últimos obviamente já visando o mercado das gordinhas. Porque se uma anoréxica pode se vestir de Chanel – com a profusão de tamanhos zero e até zero-zero por aí – porque uma obesa não pode? Nada mais justo. Só espero que essa mudança seja definitiva e a Saks coloque esses produtos na sua lista permanente de vendas. A perpetuação dos seres humanos agradece e a auto-estima de milhões de mulheres também.

P.S.: Para as interessadas, as marcas que a Saks passará a vender nos tamanhos maiores são Chanel, Fendi, Roberto Cavalli, Yves Saint Laurent, Dolce & Gabbana e Alexander McQueen. Eles se juntarão a uma lista de designers que já oferecem roupas com tamanhos maiores, como Donna Karan, Carolina Herrera, Armani e Oscar de la Renta.

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Angela Grossi and The Skirt

Calvin Klein Skirt, Sisters Shirt,  Zara Shoes from Italy

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Quite liked the look. People she always dresses differently. That’s why we love!

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Do jeito que as coisas andam, não é possível que o Brasil não entre na lista cedo ou tarde… Não entrem em desespero, a fé é grande!

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1. Proenza Schouler Campaigns. I love the fact that they chose to use new faces, it makes the ads look fresh and young like the brand. And that colored stripe across? Brilliant.

2. Alexander Wang Campaign Video. Abbey Lee + Craig McDean + Alexander Wang. Does it get any better than this? No. No, it does not.

3. Fall Zara TRF Collection. Just as expected, TRF puts out another super on-trend collection with all the aura and mystery of the wild wild west. Too bad there’s no Zara back home in middle-of-nowhere Michigan. But GREAT NEWS!! ZARA’S ONLINE STORE OPENS SEPTEMBER 2!! YESSSSSS.

4. Madras by A.P.C. for Urban Outfitters. I’ve always been a fan of french label A.P.C. but sadly never been able to afford it. Looks like someone was listening to my prayers! The collection will be available on-line and in stores August 20!

5. Caroline, Julia N. & Julia S. for Dazed & Confused. Great styling, AMAZING makeup. Love everything about it!

And finally, it’s time to announce the winner of the Shopbop Giveaway!! I used a random generator to pick the winner, the number choosen will correspond with the number of the comment. So Congtulations to…

… Anna Margrete!!
Congrats Anne, I’ll be in contact with you soon about your giftcard! Thanks for reading The Voguette!

Currently Listening to: Architecture in Helsinki – Spring 2008

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LINK LOVE:Sean O'Pry for ZARA FW2010.11

Ludget Delcy and The Blazer

Zara Blazer, Hugo Boss Shirt, Ari Hat, Ray Ban Sunglasses, Jeans from Opening Ceremony, Paul Smith Shoes

LINK LOVE:Twisted Classic – The Blazer

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LINK LOVE:Swagger Mondays: Amy Spotted in Williamsburg

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My Face hunter

LINK LOVE:Lookbook – Levi's Vintage Shorts

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My Face hunter

LINK LOVE:Lookbook San Francisco | Zara Dress, Jeffrey Campbell

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Yesterday, he debuted his collaboration with local retailer Exito. The show kicked off Colombian Fashion Week, and was so hotly anticipated by locals that his face was plastered on billboards around the city. His collection, the first of three seasons for Exito, was a wild success bringing booty to French girls and monochrome to Colombian women. We talked to him about switching from high end to high street, Colombian fashion, and sex-appeal.

ELLE: You just presented your show – when will it be in the shops?

EC: Tomorrow! That was one of my main aims: I didn’t want people to wait six months to get the clothes, I wanted a very immediate, real feel to it. You see it one night, the next morning you can go and buy the same outfit!

ELLE: And what is the price range?

EC: It ranges from accessories which are about $12, to jackets that go up to $200 – which is the same price as say Zara, but the quality is similar to labels such as APC. I didn’t just want to do something that looks good, but get a product that lasts too.

ELLE:What was the aim? Why retail after high end?

EC:I never wanted to get into high end in Colombia – the percentage of people who can afford it is very small, and they can shop abroad anyway. It’s just not what I had in mind. I wanted to bring international fashion to as many people here as possible, who don’t usually get exposed to such styles.

ELLE: And how did you express that in the clothes?

EC:Well, the challenge was to offer clothes that are internationally relevant, but still appealing to Colombian women – and so we presented fashion elements that they often aren’t aware of: layering, new proportions, accessorizing.
At the same time, we have to respect the local taste, and so we offered solutions to looking sexy, but in a more relaxed way. It’s about offering an alternative and showing you can still look hot, easily and affordably.

ELLE:Why is the relationship to fashion so different in Colombia then?

EC: They just don’t know, they aren’t informed about what goes on outside, the frame of references is limited to inside of the country, people go to local shops.

ELLE:But are things changing?

EC: Yes, they are very enthusiastic, and this project was so far very well received. I think there is a growing interest and desire to find out about fashion. Fingers crossed!

—ALICE PFEIFFER

LINK LOVE:Esteban Cortazar Landed in Colombia Around the Time Lindsay Landed in Jail

Blush pinks, creams, and nudes are all I want to wear this summer. Maybe it’s because if I wear lighter colors it’ll somehow keep me cooler…

Blazer: Zara

Skirt: H&M

Top: Vintage

Link Love: The Voguette

Do you read fashion blogs?
Yes of course! I started at the beginning of 2010 because of all this interest in this online digital media, but I always followed Scott (Schuman), Garance and Tommy Tom since they started.

My favs are: The Sartorialist, Garance Doré, Jak and Jil, BryanBoy, Chic Muse, Shelby, All The Pretty Birds, Purple Diary, Self Service Blog, Style Rookie, The Love Magazine, Swide Magazine, and Scala Regia.

None. I like to see every show. I really enjoy the vibe when the shows start.

Shoes! I can survive without clothes, but I will die if i don’t get the right shoes. I collect them I have more than 4,000 pairs of shoes and if I can wear a Zara dress, I cannot wear cheap shoes.

Because I travel so much I like to shop properly in each different city. For example US designers in NYC (Marc Jacobs, Phi, Proenza Schouler, Alexander Wang, Joseph Altuzarra, Rodarte,) French designers in Paris, and Italian designers in Milan.

To not get old! Fashion keeps me young and keeps my eyes fresh. I have to update myself every morning.  I’m so curious  about all the visionary phenomena that changes the contemporary scenario. I call myself  “the vestal of fashion” because for me fashion is a muse and you must seduce her.  How? You have to feed the creative fire, so it doesn’t vanish.

If you’ve been given a weekend to do anything, anywhere, what would you do?

I love to do intensive workshop of Astanga yoga completed by a long swim, meditation, and pranayama.

Carine Roitfeld. She has always fascinated me with her intriguing attitude and her incredible way of dressing.

I always say that the visibility is not enough to start in this profession, it’s  hard work.  You need to assist some editors with humbleness and devotion for a least 10 years. You must to do without speaking and with a watchful eyes only to learn.

A Saleswoman. I love buying clothes and I’d  like to be in a shop dressing up  other women.

Thanks Anna, check out her great blog here

Pictures: The Sartorialist, Jak&jil, All the pretty birds

Sem mais delongas, aqui vão os números dos concorrentes:

e o ganhador foi……..

LINK LOVE:Resultado do sorteio da Zara

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Pra participar é molezinha: tem que seguir publicamente o blog no Google Friend Connect. Quem quiser ter mais chances de concorrer é só indicar um amigo para seguir o blog – mas o amigo tem que me mandar um e-mail ou comentar nesse post dizendo que foi indicado por você, para que eu possa colocar um número extra pra você no sorteio.

O resultado sairá amanhã, dia 07 de julho, pela manhã. Porém só serão válidos os nomes que tiverem seguindo o blog através do Google Friend Connect até hoje, dia 06 de julho, às 7 da noite horário de Brasília, ok?

LINK LOVE:É hoje!

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See full gallery at Envy!

LINK LOVE: Nitrolicious

LINK LOVE: Sea of Shoes

A collection of six exclusive t-shirts featuring graphics by Keith Haring will be for sale this week at Zara. Shirts are $29.90 and feature bright colors such as green, red and yellow, as well as neutral tones like white, black or grey mixed with vibrant graphics. One motif not to be missed is the self-portrait of Keith Haring himself, homage to his works and figure.

Russian model Arthur Daniyarov stars in the new Zara Young Spring/Summer 2010 campaign with Ranya Mordanova. More pics after the jump…

LINK LOVE: Homotography

Totally need the shorts…kinda sick of the loose side braid!

LINK LOVE: MyFaceHunter

Link Love:  Fashion Copious

Super impressed with this look at first glance, then I realized all his clothes were from H&M, Zara, and DKNY. Now I’m even more impressed because it can be really hard to get a solid edgy look from these stores without looking really cheesy. The picture is in black and white though, which totally helps.

Link

Was totally thinking about buying this amazing jacket from Zara until this Mickey Rourke-faced run-off from the Jackson 5 ruined it with his necrofaming.

LINK LOVE

This is so exciting, would love to shop Zara online…H&M on the other hand always looks better in an image than in person.

LINK LOVE