Fashion Meets Art (Kristin's Favorite Met Gala Looks)

Fashion Meets Art

Kristin's Favorite Met Gala Looks!!!

 Every year I look forward to the photos from this event. The Met Gala brings out the best fashion and a lot of creativity. If I could pick an event of all the events in the world to go to, this would be it for me. I love art and I have always looked at fashion as art as well. When fashion and art come together, nothing can be more exciting to me. Check out my favorite works of art.

5. It's a tie between J.Lo in Michael Kors & Anne Hathaway in Valentino
I love both of these looks for the same reasons. They are feminine, sexy and give the illusion of being just about naked. I think these ladies both pulled these looks off perfectly from head to toe.

4. Solange in Kenzo
Solange is one of my personal style icons today. I feel we have a similar sense of style. I can relate to her choices and now that I have natural hair, she really appeals to me. I love this look because I am a fan of pattern especially tribal prints. Her afro is also killer!

3. Blake Lively in Gucci Premiere
This dress is just gorgeous and I expect nothing less from Ms. Lively.

2. Sarah Jessica Parker in Giles Deacon 
I love this complete look! I was sold on everything from the Philip Treacy mohowk headdress to the red bottom plaid boots. The dress itself looked like it should be hanging in the museum.

1. Beyonce in Givenchy
This look was also a piece of art work. I love the bright orange and yellow mixed with black. I love the matching boots and the hardware on the belt. I think she was the belle of the ball.

All photos courtesy of huffingtonpost.com

Be blessed! Be free! Be fashionable!

Kris

Style Crush

Recently, Kristin created an etsy treasury inspired by Noir & Blanc, or in other words Black & White. As I was browsing the net I noticed this collection of photos of celebs rocking this spring trend, and I wanted to share it. Black & White is a timeless color combo, that will always be in style. These two colors are so neutral that you can wear them in single prints like geometric shapes, or referee stripes. Brandy opted to mix patterns, and it looks great. Color blocking is also an option as Beyonce and Kelly Rowland are rocking this style.

All pictures taken from: www.essence.com 

As for myself, I cannot wear white I'm always in fear of spilling something and then my outfit would be ruined. I would do an all black ensemble with white accessories, whether it's a clutch, pumps, jewelry, or even a hat.  Also, Black & White are colors that you could easily thrift shop for and put an outfit together!

Are you wearing Black & White this spring?

Until Next Time, Ciao!

*Chris*

Style Crush

5 Fall trends I'm crushing on!!!

1. Brocade

Throughout history brocade was reserved for the wealthiest and most powerful people, then in the 18th century men and women in the upper and middle classes incorporated this jacquard woven fabric into their day to day wardrobes. Eventually, it was seen in many households, which most people still associate brocade with their grandmother's sofa.

Well now this luxurious fabric is back, and it's making a statement. Many designer's showed the use of this fabric in the Fall runway shows. These two pieces from Balmain and Marchesa were my favorite. I will definitely try incorporating this trend into my wardrobe sparingly, through accessories, or by wearing one brocade piece with something more neutral or not as bold.

Balmain Fall 2012 www.style.com

Marchesa Fall 2012 www.style.com

From left to right:

1. The foil brocade shorts are Lauren Conrad available at http://www.kohls.com/kohlsStore/zbrandskiosk/women/lclaurenconrad/bottoms/PRD~1188062/LC+Lauren+Conrad+Foil+Brocade+Shorts.jsp for only $37.50

2. The Strafford Tights are available at http://www.modcloth.com/shop/tights/staffordshire-tights for $29.99

3. The brocade inspired skirt is available at http://www.hm.com/us/product/03989?article=03989-A   for $34.95




2. Drop waist dresses

The drop waist dress gained it popularity during the Roaring Twenties, a great example of this style dress is the oh -so famous beaded flapper dress.  You can spot a drop waist dress by finding where the waist seam falls; it will fall at or near the hips, rather than the natural waist.  This silhouette can be tricky for many body types to wear, it generally looks best on those with smaller hips and longer torsos. Which is why this dress looks great on the runway.

I want to incorporate one of these dresses into my wardrobe this fall. I will have to choose wisely how I style this dress and what shoes to wear. I am very petite, and because there is so much fabric at the top of the dress it could cause my legs to look super short. We shall see. Below are some affordable options.

Tadashi Fall 2012 www.style.com

From Left to Right:

1.Blue pleated "Drop Waist No Time" dress is available at http://www.modcloth.com/shop/dresses/drop-waist-no-time-dress for $52.99


2. Black and White Polka dot dress is available at  http://www.etsy.com/listing/612420 36/vintage-1980s-polka-dot-drop-waist-dress?utm_source=googleproduct&utm_medium=syndication&utm_campaign=GPS for $26.00


3. Ruffle Drop waist dress paisley print is available at http://www.victoriassecret.com/clothing/dresses/ruffle-drop-waist-dress?ProductID=68775&CatalogueType=OLS for $59.50



3. Capes

I always thought there was something chic about "Little Red Riding Hood's" attire, her cape! Designers did an excellent job on their rendition of this overcoat trend. Two of my favorites were by Marni and Prabal Gurung. The cape is a good essential to have in your wardrobe, you will always something stylish to throw on to keep you warm.

Marni Fall 2012 www.style.com

Prabal Gurung Fall 2012 www.style.com

From Left to Right:

1. The Dune Mesh Cape available at http://www.unitedhabit.com/51kt7in7251-the_dune_mesh_cape_cameo for $29.99

2. Women's Fashion cloak available at http://www.ebay.com/itm/270877621045?hlp=false&var= for $29.99

3. Distinctive Style Cape available at http://www.modcloth.com/shop/outerwear/distinctive-style-cape for$42.99


4. Day clutches

I love a great clutch, whether it's day or night. This Fall carrying a clutch during the day is all the rage. So toss that oversize handbag to the side, and find a stylish clutch to carry! The wonderful thing about clutches is, you can find them very easily at your local thrift store. Almost all of the clutches that I own are thrift store finds and they all were $1.99 or less.

Tom Ford Fall 2012 www.style.com

Juicy Couture Fall 2012 www.style.com

From Left to Right:

1. Python print envelope clutch available at 

http://www.aldoshoes.com/us/handbags/clutches/product/88533214-nobbe/24 for $34.98

2. Pink "leather" clutch available at http://www.hm.com/us/product/01618?article=01618-A for $17.95

3. Mail Me to Miami clutch available at http://www.modcloth.com/shop/small-bags-clutches for $34.99

5. Cap toe shoes

Cap toe shoes have really made a statement. The cap toe is traditionally seen in men's shoes, but it has now crossed over to the women's department, in the form of high heels and flats. This shoe is so versatile, whatever your style is you can find a cap toe shoe that is right for you. I think I will invest in a flat pair for work, and then a high heel for play!

Photo taken from blog.sisterbrotherstyle.com

From Left to Right: 

1. Master Classy Heel available at http://www.modcloth.com/shop/search?keyword=cap+toe+shoes&commit=GO for $42.99

2. Houndstooth ballet flats available at http://www.hm.com/us/product/02663?article=02663-F for$24.95

3. Bamboo Mirina Studded cap toe flats available at http://www.lulus.com/products/bamboo-mirina-02-black-studded-metal-cap-toe-ballet-flats/61378.html for $29.99

What are your favorite Fall 2012 fashion trends?

*Chris*

Style Crush

Every woman has a crush on another woman, whether it's because of her amazing hair, her confidence, or in this case her sense of style. We will be highlighting women whose style we have a crush on, either a celeb or an average Jane. Enjoy!!

Madewell

This week's style crush is not a person, but a store I have a crush on. Essentially we have a crush on someone that we like or admire, but have not yet attained that person or an attribute of that person. Well, that is how I feel about Madewell, I love the vibe when I go into the store, every single item on the rack appeals to me. I have yet to shop there because they are a little pricey for my budget, but maybe one day. Until then I will continue to stalk the store on a consistent basis.

Madewell has a very vintage inspired feel, from the fabrics they use to the choice of prints. The quality of the clothing does balance out the high prices. If you like vintage clothing, but don't like the hassle of shopping in second hand stores, Madewell is perfect for you. The jewelry is amazing just as it is in their "Big Sister" store J.Crew.

Photo taken from: madewell.tumblr.com

This is what I am used to seeing when I go into the Madewell store and when I peruse the website. The look is pretty plain, but I love the color blocking, and the monochromatic blues. Her outfit has a lot more potential, I would accessorize it more.

Now how much more inspiring is this?

Photo taken from: www.fashionbased.com

Using Solange Knowles as the face of Madewell was a great marketing strategy. She will definitely bring a different customer base to the company. The way she rocks her Madewell makes me want to shop in the store even more. I may be biased because she is a fellow naturalista. :)

Photo taken from:www.necolebitchie.com

If you are in Columbus, check out the Madewell store at Easton Town Center. They are also online at www.madewell.com. If you go into the store pick up the monthly newsletter, you will find some good fashion tips.

Until next time,Ciao!

*Chris*