Wednesday, October 29, 2014

The Halloween Special: The Scary/Sexy Conundrum

I decided to call this blog post "The Halloween Special" to give it that air of ambiguity that stems from this term. As a frequently used term, it is associated with that "special" time of year where we all dress up in frightening (or sexually frightening) costumes that inspire outrageous behaviour. In light of my most recent post on the "weird", Halloween happens to be quite a propos because it is the only time of year when we are encouraged to wear something we wouldn't be caught dead in on a regular day. Whether a witch costume, a life-size milk carton, or a minion (the most popular choice last year), we are encouraged to be someone we're not.

Throughout the year, the way we dress is a reflection of ourselves and how we'd like others to perceive us. On Halloween, we want to hide that self and inspire intrigue in the average masked figure. We want people to look at us and to inspire wonder and perhaps, fear, in that person.

As a widely commercialized holiday, Halloween has become all about the costume.

Where do you buy it?
What do you wear?
How do you find an original idea?
Should you be sexy or scary?

via Pinterest
When pondering Halloween, we don't just select a costume out of the blue. Some of us do. But others put a month's worth of thought into their choice. For something that is not meant to reflect the self, an abundance of energy is being put into this look. Is it possible that our Halloween costume is yet another extension of our inner selves? Is Halloween an excuse to become a person we secretly desire to be? For those in zombie costumes, this is probably not the case. But why are there so many articles offering tips on what to wear on Halloween? Yes, we seek variety because it is a difficult choice, but how do we come to make that choice? 

It all comes down to a simple game of Would You Rather. When faced with two decisions, we mentally process the consequences of both and make a selection. For the sake of this game, we're often faced with two terrible choices, but when it comes to Halloween, it's more about which one fits with the kind of person we want to be that day. Do I want to be THAT girl wearing bunny ears on Halloween or will others perceive me as unoriginal, boring, and conventional. Perhaps if I choose to be scary, I might be perceived as bold, daring, and confident. Or maybe I'm over-thinking it.

Ponder It,

Oh, and Happy Halloween.

XOXO,

Bella

Tuesday, October 28, 2014

Fashion's Obsession With The "Weird"

A common misconception about the fashion industry is that it's all about an idealized version of beauty. P.S It's not. I am well aware that women are being touched up on all our favourite magazines from A to Vogue, skinny is the dominant trend, and makeup, a tool used for beautifying, is an industry in itself. But what people don't know is that fashion is not the pretty girl in your English class that gets all the attention. Fashion is personified by the other girl who sits in the back with the gapped teeth and bushy eyebrows. What was once an industry that promoted a singular look is now a realm of versatility on a constant quest to find the "weird". From gap toothed models to whimsical prints, fashion loves to counter established notions of beauty with unusual silhouettes and bold accessories simply because it can. After all, mother knows best.

When you take a moment to look at a runway show from Alexander McQueen or Marc Jacobs, you enter a world where beauty is undefined. The general public calls it "weird", but can we really define "weird"? What does the word "weird" even mean?

via ivheesalvador.wordpress.com
Once upon a time, the word weird referred to anything supernatural. Today, we call that girl who eats paste in kindergarten a weirdo. In fact, anything that differs from our own reality appears "weird" to us. Unfamiliar foods, unconventional haircuts, and oversized hats are deemed weird because we don't see them on the streets every day. But what if we did? What if the entire world decided to embrace their inner weird and do something they've always wanted to do but didn't because they thought it would be interpreted as weird.

When you look at a fashion trend, how do you decide if it's "weird"?
Is a giant fur stole weird or flamboyant?
Is flamboyant a euphemism for weird?
If so, why are we so keen on the word flamboyant, but cringe at the word "weird"?

via www.womenzmag.com
Weirdness is frowned upon in most societies. You can't just walk up to a stranger and strike a conversation. It's weird. You can't make strange noises in a public setting. It's weird. You can't wear a wizard's hat at school. It's weird. You're not Harry Potter. Fiction can be weird, but you? Definitely not.

If you're weird, you risk being rejected by your peers. Who will accept you if you're too weird?
How would we know if we avoid the weird? What is the appropriate amount of weird that society can tolerate?

Designers embrace weirdness because society doesn't. Fashion aims to be original, unique, and slightly bizarre to challenge those regular folks. That's what keeps it fresh. If we all engaged with our weirdness, would the world be a more creative space? Or would it be a raucous circus?

Ponder It,

XOXO,

Bella

Monday, October 27, 2014

#ForTheSakeofFashion: UNTUCKED

via myamethyst-shea.com
In the current social climate, the prefix "un" has attained a high level of popularity. Consider this list of words:

Unfiltered
Underpants
Unmotivated
Underachiever

My personal favourite? Untucked.

Take a look below at some AMAZING "untucked" outfits:
...


"Un", unlike the singular french article word "un" (which sounds similar) refers to something that is done in reverse. It is that backspace button we wish existed in our day-to-day lives. When speaking of "untucking", I like to call it the rejection of proper forms of dress in exchange for something a little more "undone". Pull out your shirt, but only halfway. A fully untucked shirt is UNflattering, while a half tucked one is #IWokeUpLikeThis cool. It says "I'm put together, but not enough to appear as though I'm trying to impress anyone". It's that laissez-faire quality we love in Parisian style and wish we could recreate. But alas, we're just not cool enough. Our only attempt is leaving our sweaters or button downs slightly undone to convey a nonchalant model-off-duty look. It's our key into the realm of fashion.

The half tuck is not practical, sirs and madams. It is an expression of rebellion. It is the product of many years of our parents telling us to tuck in that shirt on our way to grandma's house. It is, dare I say it, #ForTheSakeofFashion. Duh.

The half tuck is one of my favourite fashion trends because it can transform a professional look into one that is slightly more casual. It can take you from day-time to evening in a matter of buttons. That's a great deal if I ever heard one.

The half tuck can be sensual. It can also signal a walk of shame. When done properly, it can even be worn in PUBLIC. Some fashionistas are pro half-tuckers because after all, it is a skill. Jessica Alba, Leandra Medine, and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley are a few names that come to mind.

What do all these ladies have in common?

They ALWAYS look stylish.

So if you're looking for a fashion risk to take that isn't all that risky, try the half tuck. By tucking a section of your shirt into your bottoms, you can reinvent your wardrobe. I would know. I've tried it.

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

Friday, October 24, 2014

#IconCity: I Know It's Cliché, but Kate Middleton Is The New Jackie O

This biggest feat I've ever had to surmount was to select my favourite Kate Middleton looks because she may just be a Duchess in England, but to me, she is the Queen of fashion. Ever since Kate entered the fashion sphere, we've been enviously ogling at her brilliant style choice and aspiring to attend galas simply to justify dressing with that much elegance every day. Don't get me wrong. I'm sure that Kate wears jeans every now and again, but in my book, her pyjamas consist of a selection of Oscar de la Renta suits. It's clear to see that Kate is the new icon in the monarchy as she invades social media platforms every time she leaves the White House. She is the epitome of chic in every circumstance, whether a golf course or a derby. And don't even get me started on those fabulous hats.

Here are five of my favourite Kate Middleton looks.

LOOK 1
Kate knows how to take a simple look and make us all swoon. From the Charleston hat to the sleek pastel coat, this outfit is nothing short of perfect.
via Vogue.com.au
LOOK 2
Let's all marvel at Kate's incredible taste in coats. She pulls off military chic better than any of us.
via www.princesswithapen.hubpages.com
LOOK 3
Kate Middleton looks ravishing in pastel purple. Clearly, pastel is her shade of beautiful.
via www.people.com
LOOK 4
Amazing coat number three. Can I please steal all of Kate Middleton's coats please?
via www.huffingtonpost.com
LOOK 5
Yet another coat I'm in love with. I'd like to place an order.
via fabsugar.com
What do you think of Kate Middleton's style? How many coats of hers do you dream about every night?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

Wednesday, October 22, 2014

How To Prepare For Winter And Avoid Hypothermia

Caution: This will not be a scientific analysis on cold temperatures or hypothermia.

As a Canadian, I am inherently qualified to give advice on how to dress for winter. For some, it seems basic, but you'd be surprised at the curve balls this season might throw your way. In the summer, all you have to worry about is the sun and the rain. In winter, there could be a snowstorm at any given moment, hail, a rainfall, sub-zero temperatures, and above zero global warming temperatures. It really is the luck of the draw. So, how do we prepare? Runway collections teach us how to dress for fall, but what happens when winter comes along? Essentially, if it goes down to 10 degrees, we're ready to face it. Unfortunately, Canada is the land of igloos and a cute wool coat often won't suffice.

Here are some style tips for the winter snow angel (aka YOU).


TIP 1: Wear a parka.
I know you want to look stylish and a parka makes you look like you ate your doppelganger, but it is essential to winter survival. Recently, fashionistas have been spotted wearing these monsters on the streets at Fashion Week. Designers have integrated them into their collections and we could all breathe a sigh of relief as they come to be recognized as fashion staples. These two looks from the Diesel Black and Gold Fall 2014/2015 collection are ideal for those chilly winter months. However, I wouldn't advise wearing them without pants.
via www.denimjeansobserver.com

TIP 2: Add some furccessories.
Fur is all the rage in the fashion world and the only reason we can all proclaim our love for winter. This season, fur takes on so many forms that you don't need the fluffy coat to feel glamorous. Whether a fur trim on your gloves or a Fendi fur stole, there are enough options to keep you warm and chic.

Option 1: The Fur Hat
For the bolder type...
via www.fashionisers.com
Option 2: The Fur Scarf
For that subtle glamour...
via www.fashionisers.com

TIP 3: Opt for REAL winter boots.
Lies fashion people tell you: you can wear leather boots all winter. At a certain point, those thermal socks probably won't cut it. You'll need something a little warmer for days where it hits -30 degrees. Get yourself a pair of insulated winter boots. Tommy Hilfiger knows what I'm talking about.
via www.style.com

TIP 4: Embrace the hat.
Lucky for us, hats are currently a major trend. Keep your ears warm with a cozy wool hat. It can be stylish. I promise.
via www.fashioniser.com

TIP 5. Wear pants under your skirt or dress. It's high fashion.
This may seem quasi-crazy, but all the designers are making it acceptable. Just when you thought you could never do such a thing (in public), it becomes a fashion statement that we're all secretly dying to try. This was definitely a shout-out to Canadians.
via www.womensfashionstyles.com

TIP 6: Invest in thigh high socks. They can be SO chic.
If pants under skirts is just not for you, try a pair of cozy long socks. Worn with the current mod trend, this look reminds us of the best part about high school uniforms. If Tory Burch did it, why can't you?
via www.live-life-in-style.com

TIP 7: Don't forget your gloves.
Your extremities can make you freeze faster than your average ice cube. Cover them. They will improve the state of your body in a matter of minutes. Try long gloves for added warmth as shown at Vera Wang, Altuzarra, and Christian Dior during Fall 2014 Fashion Week.
via www.fashioniser.com

TIP 8: Buy a large variety of oversized sweaters
Oversized sweaters are my favourite winter piece. They're cozy AND stylish, which makes them a seasonal must-have. Buy a few in wool or acrylic to make sure you stay warm under your parka.
via www.stylecaster.com
Ready for winter yet? Follow this list one step at a time and you'll be prepared to face December in head-to-toe style.

XOXO,

Bella

Tuesday, October 21, 2014

In Memoriam: 10 Oscar de le Renta Gowns That Made Your Jaw Drop

Oscar de la Renta passed away last night at the age of 82 and the whole fashion world erupted in tears. Yet another legend has left us too soon and we can only look back at his legacy with nostalgia as we peruse through each of his previous collections. Oscar was a man who knew what women wanted. His designs always conveyed elegance, glamour, femininity, and that wow factor we all yearn for when award season comes along. Any celebrity wearing an Oscar gown knew she'd be on a best-dressed list in a heartbeat because Oscar knew how to make everyone fall in love with his designs. To commemorate this iconic designer, let's take a look at some of the best Oscar dresses that graced a red carpet in the last few years.

NUMBER 10
Lea Michele was a vision in pink at the 2011 Golden Globes. The intricate folds of the dress enhanced its feminine appeal while the fitted bodice highlighted her curves. This was the ultimate girly dress and it embodied the essence of Oscar.
Golden Globes
via www.popsugar.com
NUMBER 9
Back in 2012, Carrie Underwood wore the famous cloud dress, named for its fluffy skirt and misty colour. This dress may be reminiscent of a stormy night, but it was probably a romantic one from a Harlequin novel. Oscar's dresses had that mystical effect on us all.
Billboard Music Awards
via www.popsugar.com
NUMBER 8
The expression "fit like a glove" probably came from celebrities wearing dresses like these. Alba's mermaid gown from the 2013 Golden Globes was one of her most memorable looks due to the gorgeous colour and elaborately pleated skirt. Simply looking at this dress, you knew that it had to be Oscar's work.
Golden Globes
via www.zadenrow.com
NUMBER 7
Kerry Washington ALWAYS looks amazing, but at the NAACP Awards back in 2013, she looked breathtaking. Of course, she wore Oscar. The lovely lace detailing and long elegant train instantly give it away.
NAACP Awards
via www.glamazondiaries.com
NUMBER 6
Remember when Amy Adams wore this to the Oscars and you were completely dazzled? Remember when she won an Oscar in this very gown? Knowing that you're up for an Oscar is always the perfect indication that you MUST wear Oscar.
The Oscars
via www.aloversanthology.com
NUMBER 5
Sarah Jessica Parker was the belle of the ball at the 2014 Met Gala. Every aspect of this dress was reminiscent of Carrie Bradshaw from the long white gloves to the full skirt. Though the black and white made it a classic look, the design was anything but simple. Oscar knew how to take classic elements and transform them into a drop-dead-gorgeous gown.
Met Gala
via www.glamazonsblog.com
NUMBER 4
For the Noah Premiere, Emma Watson decided to go gothic chic in this stunning Oscar de la Renta gown. Though the long sleeves and full skirt are conservative, the deep V at the back gives it that sexy wink to complete the look. Oscar knew that overt sexuality is not always the key to a beautiful dress, but rather, subtle sex appeal.
Noah Premiere
via uk.lifestyle.yahoo.com
NUMBER 3
Taylor Swift looked pretty in pink at the 2014 Met Gala. The deep V at the back and fabric manipulation at the tail are typical of Oscar de la Renta. You can tell that this man LOVED beautiful fabric.
Met Gala
via www.popsugar.com
NUMBER 2
Natasha Poly killed it at the Cannes Film Festival in this gothic, yet feminine, Oscar de la Renta dress. One of my favourite pieces from that collection, she gave it all the attention it deserved with pulled back hair and minimal jewelry. Everyone knows that an Oscar dress has to be the centre piece.
Cannes Film Festival
via www.fashionvent.com
NUMBER 1
Finally, who can forget the most recent tribute to Oscar: Amal Almuddin's wedding gown. This very picture was taken at her fitting with the designer himself. That had to have been magical.
Wedding
via nypost.com
R.I.P Oscar de la Renta. You'll always be remembered as the man who knew how to dress a woman in a way that made her fall in love.

XOXO,

Bella

Monday, October 20, 2014

Do You Have To BE Athletic to LOOK Athletic?

...
Images via Vogue.com

Karl Lagerfeld introduced the concept of sneakers on the HAUTE COUTURE runway.
Donna Karan had her DKNY models wearing NYC baseball caps to showcase their pride in their city.
Mulberry's new Cara Delevingne backpacks lean towards chic practicality for the average school girl.
So, it shouldn't come as a shock that Alexander Wang's H&M collection consists entirely of sportswear. From casual wear to athletic street gear, gender lines are getting more blurred by the minute.

"Anyone can get dressed up and glamorous but it is how people dress in their days off that are the most intriguing." No truer words have ever been spoken by a wise 30 year old designer also known as Alexander Wang.

As stilettos are getting replaced as cool shoe of the moment by Adidas Originals, casual, nay sporty, becomes the new chic. It's the beginning of a new fashion era where comfort dominates the streets and feminism is a term being swooshed around like a hockey puck. While the mod movement remains the trend du jour and 90's nostalgia is all the rage, sportswear is taking centre stage, as it becomes the cool new kid on the block. In light of society's growing obsession with the gym and kale, everyone's talking about staying fit and taking up a sport has never been cooler.

But what if you aren't the athletic type? Does that mean Alexander Wang's new H&M collaboration isn't for you? OR are you allowed to fake it? Is wearing a gym getup on the street the equivalent of Drake saying he's from the street?

via lifestylemirror.com
In the fashion world, your outfit is a reflection of your personality and you are defined by your ability to express your individuality through your personal style. If that is the case, how can a girl wear basketball shoes if she doesn't play basketball? Is it possible to pull off sportswear without looking like you're trying too hard to be someone you're not?

According to Alexander Wang, the collection is NOT just for the athletically inclined. Phew. Despite the sporty themes, these pieces are meant to be transitional looks that can be worn in other settings. In fact, it sounds a lot like he's telling us to wear these items #fothesakeoffashion and not purely for recreational purposes.

Many moons ago, sportswear was only meant to be worn when playing sports. Often, it wasn't very stylish, but merely a necessity with the right qualities to suit the game at hand. Soccer shoes were for soccer because they had cleats. It was a given. No questions asked. For this reason, fashionistas were appalled at the thought of being caught in their sports attire. 

But what happens when we start loving our sportswear? 
What happens when the fashion world decides that being athletic can be fashionable? 
What happens when your Nikes become a fashion statement rather than just a sports shoe?
And what happens when you're choosing your Nikes over your Louboutins?
Will this inspire some of us (myself) to take up sports? 
Does it even have to?

Ponder It,

XOXO,

Bella

Wednesday, October 15, 2014

QUIZ TIME: Which Young, Flourishing Fashion Model Are You?

We all know about the Supers: Naomi Campbell, Linda Evangelista, Kate Moss, Christy Turlington, and Cindy Crawford. If you don't, I urge to check out Models.com immediately as you lower your head in embarrassment. Today, we've got a new batch of ladies everyone's talking about and I'm about to tell you which one is your soul sister. But wait. First you have to take this quiz. Find out if you're a Cara, a Karlie, a Joan, or a Soo Joo.

1. Pick your favourite fashion brand.
a) DKNY
b) Oscar de la Renta
c) Missoni
d) Chanel

2. Which of these words describes you best?
a) Goofy
b) Friendly
c) Fierce
d) Non-Conformist

3. What's your best physical feature?
a) Your eyebrows
b) Your swan neck
c) Your lips
d) Your cheekbones

4. What's your motto?
a) Life's a playground. Don't take it too seriously.
b) Don't worry. Have a cookie.
c) Beauty is about diversity.
d) Uniqueness is the emblem of success.

5. Time to make a change. What do you do to your hair?
a) Dye it dirty blond
b) Chop it all off
c) Change my hair? NEVER.
d) Bleach it

6. What's your spirit animal?
a) A bunny
b) A puppy
c) A lion
d) An iguana

7. What's your favourite fashion trend?
a) Sneakers
b) Minimalism
d) HATS
e) Grunge

MOSTLY A's: You Are CARA DELEVINGNE
via www.theformulablog.com
You love to have a good time no matter the place and people are attracted to your youthful spirit. Some say you're a bit wild, but you just like to live life to its fullest. Every day is a party and you're ready to celebrate the good times. Come on.

MOSTLY B's: You Are KARLIE KLOSS
via www.thewallpapers.org
Everybody loves you because you're the sweetest person they know. You're a major philanthropist and live to help others reach their full potential. People are addicted to your laid back personality and nonchalance, but let that not be mistaken for laziness because you are anything but.

MOSTLY C's: You Are JOAN SMALLS
via www.thecoup.eu
You're a strong woman with solid values that guide you through your decisions. With fierce determination, you know how to get what you want. Your attitude and presence may be intimidating, but it makes you a better person and someone that others look up to.

MOSTLY D'S: You Are SOO JOO PARK
via www.lifeandtimes.com
You live to be different and play with the various assets of your personality. People consider you to be unique and envy your propensity to take a risk and set yourself apart from the crowd. You're the girl that stands out in a crowd and that no one can miss because of your infectious personality and killer style.

Tuesday, October 14, 2014

Skinny Jean, Where Hath Thou Gone?

via www.wmagazine.com
It has come to my attention that street style bloggers and fashion moguls alike are foregoing the skinny jean. At first, I struggled to determine whether or not this was an actual pattern, but as I flipped through all the street style photos taken during fashion month, I knew a revolution was about to take place.

Yesterday, I discussed the desire for designers to combine comfort with sophistication by reintroducing the fanny pack. Once again, this thought crosses my mind as more fashionistas are wearing flowy pants or mom jeans over skintight pants.

What is going on?

via www.fashionstylemag.com
As much as I love a flare and a harem pant, I can't help but think about the short girls (aka me). Can short girls even begin to consider giving up the skinny jean?

When I discovered skinny jeans, it changed my life. Gone were the days of slouchy pants that made me feel sloppy. I finally had a rear end and I learned that defining the shape is essential to dressing well. Today, I question this belief.

Do we even need to wear tight clothes to feel attractive? Is fashion trying to counter social norms or redefine them? Is this a response to uncomfortable experiences with prior trends? Is it about feminism?

As I look at these women with their new pants, I feel inspired to experiment myself. If petite women like Miroslava Duma are wearing them, why can't I?

via whowhatwear.com
At first I wondered how I can possibly remain proportionate with a looser pair of pants. Won't I just drown in the fabric? After all, that is every short girl's biggest fear. After giving it some thought, I realized that it wasn't the skinny fit that gave me height, but the waistline. If you make sure your pants are high waisted, you can get away with the flowy pant. Jackpot.

And that got me thinking: is there anything a short girl can't wear? Is it all just in our head?

Women constantly condemn aspects of their body, but the magic of fashion is that it always finds a way for every girl to wear any trend in a manner that suits her body type.

Maybe I can finally purchase that perfect pair of baggy leather pants.

I guess you'll have to wait and see!

Follow me on Instagram: @fashnbella 

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

Monday, October 13, 2014

Who In The World Is Fanny?

...

Wikipedia offers 15 variations of the term we recognize in Canada as "The Fanny Pack".

Before I get into the nitty gritty of this farcical lexicon, let's try to decipher the meaning behind this name.

I'd like to begin by asking you a question: who IS Fanny?

Is she your sister?
Is she your great-aunt's maid?
Is she your second cousin twice removed?
Is she your mother?

Once you've answered these questions, I have another one for you:

Would you name your child Fanny?

I'm guessing no.

Unfortunately, the name Fanny has negative associations. It makes us think of Fanny Hill, the 18th century prostitute, or Fanny Price, the passive character that inhabits the world of Jane Austen's Mansfield Park. And for those of you out of sync with literature, it might make you think of a rear end.

Ding Ding. Right answer.

History says that fanny packs were originally worn behind you (facing your rear), but due to pickpocketing, people decided to turn their wallet purse around. In theory, Fanny packs are a wonderful invention. They allow us to travel handsfree with every little need wrapped around our waist. Today, we have cross-body bags. So, why return to the fanny pack?

Recently, the trend has reared its ugly fanny at shows like Chanel and Alexander Wang as well as around the waist of some of our favourite celebrities. Each of these designers are bringing fanny back with a chic twist.

A few years ago, many would've unanimously agreed that the 90s was the worst fashion decade. Today, every trend we once hated is coming back to haunt us.

Overalls? Check.
Mom Jeans? Check.
Scrunchies? Check.

As a child of the 90s, I admit that we did some pretty strange things such as avoiding bras and putting coloured braids in our hair. Fanny packs were one of those things. I suppose with fashion leaning towards practicality, it was bound to happen. From the sneaker revolution to the pursuit of looser pants, fashion has taken on a new persona: #IWokeUpLikeThis.

What do YOU think of the Fanny pack? Should it even be called "fashion"?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

P.S Check out the list of other terms for Fanny Pack (according to Wikipedia) below and pick your favourite.

Waist Wallet - Canada
Belt Pack - US
Belt Bag - Philippines
Belly Bag - US
Chaos Pouch - US
Buffalo Pouch - US
Hip Sack - US
Phany Pack - US
Waist Bag - US
Hip Pack - UK
Bum Bag - Australia, Oceania, UK
Kangaroo - South America, Ireland
Butt Pack - US
Moon Bag - South Africa

Want one yet?

Wednesday, October 8, 2014

Are Two Slits Better Than One?

The Angie Slit has become an official fashion term.

An example of its use is as follows:

Have you seen J. Law? She was sporting the Angie slit at the Oscars.

It's highly probable that Angie didn't do it first, but she has such great legs that it left a mark on all of us. Anyone who chooses to wear a slit from this day forward will be imitating Angie or getting compared to her by the press. 

In Hollywood, the women want to BE Angie. I'm not implying that every single one of them literally wants to pull a freaky friday with her, but they all want to wear something, or rather, "make a statement" that will become their trademark. People crave "The Rachel", aka Jennifer Aniston's Friends haircut and some dream of having a Jared Leto bun. This is not a new phenomenon. It has existed for years. Is it a contest? It absolutely is. Winner is instantly titled "trendsetter" for the rest of his or her days. Pretty good prize if I do say so myself.

The most recent phenomenon: The Double Slit.

via styleblazer.com
Forget Angie's single slit. Women across Hollywood are now sporting TWO slits. Take that, Angie. It's just as the saying goes: two is ALWAYS better than one. Kendall Jenner did it at the MMVA's, Taytay tried it a year ago at the Brit Awards with mesh overlay. Though this isn't a new trend per say (Rosie Huntington-Whiteley did it in 2011), it's started to catch on amongst celebrities seeking to top Angie. 

Did Kendall bring it back? Will we soon be calling the double slit: The Kendall? We surely won't be calling it the Kendall Jenner because she no longer wants to be referred to in this way. Haven't you heard? She's the new Madonna. So, where will the double slit lead? I'm thinking that it might result in a higher number of wardrobe malfunctions. If one slit is risky, two is a commando hazard. 

What do you think of this trend? Do you think it will spread amongst celebrities?

Ponder It,

XOXO,

Bella

Monday, October 6, 2014

What Is A Runway?

It is nor hand, nor foot, nor...just kidding. The runway is that which has been redefined by Sir Karl Lagerfeld in recent years as a space for models to enter a fantastical realm wearing intricate designs that pertain to their external environment. It's a space for creativity, wit, and the imagination. It's like reading a really good book with vivid images that makes you want to jump into the world of the characters and escape your own. It's pure magic. THAT is a runway. When people ask me how I sit through each runway show, that's what I tell them. Contrary to popular belief, it is NOT just a bunch of models walking in high heels and hoping not to fall. It's so much more than that. Every season, a select few designers opt for a more theatrical approach to their runway shows by choosing an elaborate backdrop (requiring an even more elaborate budget). We can always expect something spectacular at Chanel and I'll definitely miss the excitement before a Jean Paul Gaultier RTW show and Marc Jacobs' exceptional Louis Vuitton presentations. As a lover of fashion and theatre, I always appreciate when a show has a theme. In fact, I find myself wishing that they all had a theme. Wouldn't it make the whole experience that much more exciting? In honour of those who have embraced the theme concept, let's take a look at my top 10 best theatrical runway shows.

NUMBER 10
Alexander McQueen Spring/Summer 2005
Fashion is a game and we are the players. At least, according to Alexander McQueen. What started off as a simple runway show became a chessboard. The message? When making your next move, make sure you dress the part (or at least that's what I took from it).
via wwd.com
Watch it here

NUMBER 9
Louis Vuitton Fall/Winter 2012
Every time Marc Jacobs presented a show for Louis Vuitton, my heart began to race faster than this train. Yes, his models stepped off a train in exquisite pyjama suits. It was magical.
via www.hotelfashionland.com
Watch it here

NUMBER 8
Chanel Fall/Winter 2010
Only Karl can bring an iceberg to the runway. While most designers focus on fall fashion staples, Karl took us to Antarctica (or maybe Canada), directly into winter. Picture the Ice Queen in Narnia on her slay wearing Chanel. Now, that's what literature should look like.
via thesuitelifedesigns.wordpress.com
Watch it here

NUMBER 7
Jean Paul Gaultier Fall/Winter 2014
Jean Paul Gaultier is known for doing things a little differently than the rest. As a theatrical man, he's inclined to make fashion a lot more fun with alienesque models in bizarre settings. This may be called ready-to-wear, but I don't think the world is ready to wear it. During this show, he took us onto an airplane and we flew all the way to the land of Gaultier, where the world is one big party.
via nowfashion.com
Watch it here

NUMBER 6
Jean Paul Gaultier Spring/Summer 2014
Gaultier loves to mix up his shows with segments. Envision your brother's bar mitzvah on crack. It may start with some nostalgic hits, but it soon becomes a conglomeration of party favourites including a Greece segment in which Coco Rocha is Danny Zuko. Enticing? Absolutely. Fun? The embodiment of it.
via zimbio.com
Watch it here

NUMBER 5
Chanel Spring/Summer 2014
Karl Lagerfeld is an artist in more ways than one. The designer recreated an art gallery to mimic his collection and it was a vision in colours that we've never seen before at Chanel.
via thesartorialist.com
Watch it here

NUMBER 4
Louis Vuitton Spring/Summer 2013
Who knows where Marc gets his creativity? This show had models walk down elevators. Are elevators a runway? According to Marc Jacobs, they're even better. Featuring models paired in twos with matching outfits, the show was a retro twin sensation.
via museforfashion.files.wordpress.com
Watch it here

NUMBER 3
Chanel Spring/Summer 2015
Karl Lagerfeld loves to make a statement and this year's Spring/Summer 2015 show definitely did. Emphatically. With models walking down the runway as a group, Karl mimicked a protest featuring purses that said "Feministe mais Feminine" and signs with words like History is Her Story. Essentially, it was a shutout to women being awesome. I can vouch for that.
via www.self.com
Watch it here

NUMBER 2
Chanel Fall/Winter 2014
Once again, Chanel makes this list because Karl has a crazy imagination and an even crazier budget. The man transformed his runway into a supermarket featuring grocery items with Chanel's logo splattered all over them. From milk carton purses to cereal box accessories, it was a consumer fantasy.
via highsnobiety.com
Watch it here

NUMBER 1
Louis Vuitton Spring/Summer 2012
This was my favourite Marc Jacobs for Louis Vuitton show because the clothing was breathtaking and the merry-go-round took me back to my youth. Featuring models slowly walking down a merry-go-round in 50s skirts with beautiful high buns, it was a complete dream. The best part? Kate Moss closing the show.
via thesartorialist.com
Watch it here

So, if you don't have patience for the runway, watch one of these shows. Who knows? It may convert you to fashion.

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

Friday, October 3, 2014

#IconCity: Blair Waldorf Is Still An Icon In My World

Gossip Girl may have ended, but it defined my personal style throughout high school and made me unable to get over the school girl look despite having graduated five years ago. I know what you're thinking. Move on. That's like asking Daniel Radcliffe to forget he was ever Harry Potter. It was the role that changed his life. In that same way, Gossip Girl changed mine. It marked my adolescence and every other high school girl's, particularly the fashionably inclined. Though many were drawn to Serena van der Woodsen's boho effortless style, I loved Blair's even more. She always looked chic and put together, from her bows that converted me to the trend forever and those consistently gorgeous high heels (because real betches wear heels to school. Duh.) I know that Leighton Meester isn't Blair, but she was my icon and needs to be on this list. Serena can't do it without her. So here are five of my favourite Leighton Meester looks.

LOOK 1
Spotted: Blair looking amazing in black and white Balmain at The Judge Premiere. Are we envious? Yes.
via People Stylewatch
LOOK 2
A classy girl always knows that her best outfit is her little black dress. Queen Blair invented that memo. After Chanel, of course.
via www.look-a-day.com
LOOK 3
Leighton looks 19th century glam at the 68th Annual Golden Globes in Burberry.
via achievelifequality.com

LOOK 4
Can you say Va-Va-Voom? Blair, sorry, Leighton, looks divine at the Charles James: Beyond Fashion Met Gala. PS. It was Emilio Pucci.
via wwd
LOOK 5
The difference between Blair and Leighton? Leighton is downtown edge, while Blair is school girl chic. If there's anything I love, it's a statement pant.
via inspiremeland.com
What do you think of Leighton's style? Which is your favourite?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella