Books Vs. Lingerie: Which Camp Do You Fall Under?

via Montreal Gazette

BIG NEWS: Victoria's Secret is coming to Montreal. For real this time.

All Montrealers (men and women included) can squeal with excitement now. You can now look like Doutzen or Candice ALL THE TIME (more or less).

Gone are the nights spent ordering online and paying the excessive shipping fee. Gone is the eagerness to head over to the states (or Laval) once a year for that VS bikini. This is going to be huge. In fact, its going to be the second largest VS store in the world.

Where will it be opening, do you ask?

Smack in the crux of St. Catherine street corner Peel as Chapters tumbles down in shame.

As an avid book lover, my first reaction was utter shock. Why oh why would you replace Chapters? I need both! Aren't there other shittier stores that can come down? Where has our love of books gone?

Many other book lovers reacted in much the same way, scorning VS for its decision.

Aren't books more important than lingerie?
What happened to intellect over beauty?

And then I realized: there's an Indigo several blocks down and it will be expanding. Book lovers everywhere, you can breathe a sigh of relief. Canada has allowed (encourages) us all to read books in our sexy new underwear. SCORE.

For a book lover like myself, this is incredible news. For La Senza down the street, not so much. No matter.

Chapters will close shop on Oct. 4th, so stock up on those books.

Will you be shopping at VS upon its opening? Or better yet: will one of the Angels be at the opening? I'm banking on Ambrosio.

Laval Opening (2012)
via Montreal Gazette

Catch you later!

Bella

How Do You Feel About Karl's Doll?

In case you hadn't yet heard, Karl Lagerfeld is getting his own Barbie. Isn't that freaking exciting?

Don't get too excited though. It will inevitably be limited edition. Sorry, five year olds.

If I look back to my five year old self, I probably wouldn't have known who Karl was and just picked it out because of that rockin ponytail. No matter. Imitation is the best form of flattery. Who cares if no child will play with it?

For those of you who know Karl, you may have noticed that he's really into his toys.

Exhibit A: The furry keychain

via mashalot.com

Exhibit B: The Karl Doll Cara carried down the runway.

via stijlmeisje.com

Exhibit C: TokiDoki

via www.fuersie.de

Now, let me ask you: does this make him vain or playful? On the one hand, he's clearly really into toys. On the other, they are all imitations of himself. Does he see himself as a godlike figure in the fashion industry? Is this justified? What would Coco have done? Or the real question: how much will this be worth in 50 years?

Take a look at the Barbie Karl designed by Mattel and let me know what you think. Would you pay 1,685$ for this?

via www.independent.ie

Ponder that.

Bella

Getting Carded At The Movies And How To Avoid It

This is based on a true story. About me. I kid not.

Yes, I am 5" tall. But does that mean I deserve to get carded at a 16+ movie? NO. I haven't been 16 in 6 years. Clearly, the girl at the ticket booth was bored and amused by my below average height.

Should I feel embarrassed? Probably not. She's the one working at the movies on a Saturday night. However, it still grinds my gears how people still think i'm 16. And that's on a good day.

So, I'm left with the question: how do I avoid this mishap?

Do I wear higher heels?
Do I wear bolder lipstick?
Do I expose a little more cleavage a little more frequently?

I've tried them ALL and none of them seem to work.

Now, I know you think I'm about to come up with some genius solution and I apologize if that's why you're here. If I had a solution, this wouldn't be happening to me. However, I can offer some suggestions.

Here are some styling ideas that'll make you look more mature without appearing as though you're trying too hard.

NUMBER 5

A Blazer

A blazer is a classic piece that can be dressed down with your favourite pair of boyfriend jeans. Keep it casual with simple cut in an interesting colour.

via Man Repeller

NUMBER 4
A Dress Shirt
Yes, you can wear a button down shirt casually. Instead of your classic tee, a button down gives off a professional look that will add some maturity to your outfit.

via Pinterest

NUMBER 3

Heels
ALWAYS wear a heel. High, low, stiletto, wedge. Heels add sophistication to every look.

via whowhatwear.com

NUMBER 2
Pencil Skirts
These can be worn casually too. Don't mistaken the pencil skirt for something your 10th grade teacher wore every day. A pencil skirt can have some flavour and allow you to be playful in other ways.

via haerpersbazaar.com

NUMBER 1
A Classy Handbag
Works. Every. Time.

via harpersbazaar.com

Hope this has helped you gain insight on mature dressing. Cheers to not getting carded!

Bella

Recycle, Reuse, and Renew

Everyone has heard of the three Rs. Recycle. Reuse. Renew. It's been ingrained in our heads since global warming became a serious issue.

No, I'm not going to go on a green rant about how we all need to recycle. I'm referring to a different kind of recycling. I'm talking about the recycling that designers do all the time.

Let's call it: Trend Recycling.

You flip through your latest September issue and what do you see? Plaid, grey, oversized sweaters, and fur.

You flip through your march issue and what do you find? Florals, pastels, maxi dresses, and denim cutoffs.

So, why read them? Why look again and again at the latest fashion trends when they're all a repeat of last year? As someone with a magazine addiction, I can't stop myself. My goal? Find something you haven't seen before. Occasionally, it happens. Karl likes to spice things up by integrating interesting pieces in his collections or adding his own twist to classic cuts. Marc Jacobs does the same. But when it comes to some designers, safe is how its done.

How do we escape the monotony? What makes fashion interesting?

Perhaps we all need to try something new. Take the inspiration without copying an exact look off a mannequin. Put on sneakers with a dress like Chanel. Take a piece of every era and find a way to integrate it into your outfit. Fashion is about surprising the onlooker.

...

The 1920s were known for Charleston dresses and hairnets. The 1930s were known for full length skirts. The 1950s with known for flared dresses and stilettos. The 1970s were known for palazzo pants and large eyewear. The 90s were grunge (obvi). Today, people think that everything is simply recycling an old trend. While that may be true, that doesn't exclude innovation. Maybe the new millennium is about experimentation. Maybe it's about creativity. Maybe it's time for us to wear skirts over pants and call it style. And maybe one day, it'll be the norm.

Fashion is unpredictable, but that's what makes it interesting. The best part about this generation is that there are no limits. Recycle. Reuse. RENEW. And embrace your inner weirdo.

Have a lovely Monday,

Bella

#IconCity: Newcomer Nicola

At a mere 18 years of age, you haven't quite graduate high school. Nicola Peltz stars in her own T.V show, Bates Motel, and has appeared in a Transformers movie. She also happens to have access to all the best stylists and designers, explaining her AMAZING wardrobe. With her model good looks (literally, she worked as a model), Nicola can rock any look on the Red Carpet. A newcomer to IconCity, she's probably by the bar with Suki Waterhouse sipping cocktails. Cheers!

Here are some of her best looks:

LOOK 1

Nicola looks like the poster girl for Fall fashion in a Louis Vuitton plum cape jacket and leather stiletto boots. Innocent? I think not.

via whowhatwear.com

LOOK 2

There's nothing more chic than a classic LWD. This Versus dress does not wear Nicola, she wears the dress and with pretty metallic wedges to boot.

via teenvogue.com

LOOK 3

Just when you thought she was a classicist, Nicola surprises us with a bold print. And don't even get me STARTED on the shoes!

via stylebistro.com

LOOK 4

This girl loves her white and wears it with class. This Stella McCartney gown is BEYOND and just wait until you see the party-in-the-back.

via dailym.ai

LOOK 5

Nicola knows how to rock a full length gown. This feminine pink number by Giambattista Valli is angelic.

via harpersbazaar.com

That's all folks! What do you think of Nicola's style? Is she a force to be reckoned with?

Keep your eyes peeled!

Bella

The Bun Stigma

via stylistsinthecity.blogspot.com

Once upon a time, buns were the only way to tie up a woman's hair. It was a symbol of status, wealth, and high class. As women began to allow their hair to tumble, a bun become that hairdo you save for special occasions. Today, a bun takes on many shapes and forms. Unfortunately, it has taken on new meaning filled with negative connotations.

Is she just that lazy?
Did she have no time to blow dry?
Did she just wake up?
Has she just returned from the gym?

And then there are those who view the bun in a positive light.

Did she wake up looking that cool?
Is she a model off duty?
HOW DID SHE DO THAT?

And then the serious questions come up.

Can I pull that off?
Would I look that cool in a bun?
Is my bun sloppy?

In case you were wondering, my buns always look sloppy. We're going to try NOT to misinterpret that statement. Some girls look super chic in a bun, while others fall short.

No matter how hard I try, my hair is just to darn slippery to hold it up in an elegant way. Despite the creation of hair donuts (that's what they're called. I kid not), I can't wear them because my hair is too thin to support them. I love a schrunchie as much as the next 90s girl, but even that isn't going to cut it for my next job interview. And who really has time to style their hair ALL THE TIME?

Is it possible that only girls with fluffy voluminous locks can wear the bun?
Are people like me doomed to remain #classynotclassy forever in a personally styled updo?
Should I just give up?

What do YOU think of the bun?
Do you fall under the YES category or the NO WAY IN HELL category?

Check out some of these street style buns and let me know what you think!

...

Happy Thursday!

Bella

What Kind of Dresser Are You?

My computer's history would indicate that I rely very much on quizzes to define myself. THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH THAT. Sometimes we need a good ol' quiz to tell us if we're better off marrying Johnny Depp or Pharrell Williams. Or whether we're a peanut butter sandwich or tuna. Or whether we're most likely to live in Paris or London. It's crucial to our self-understanding. THEREFORE, I have decided to concoct another "who am I" quiz that will hopefully bring you closer to your destination on your road to self-discovery. Get ready to find out whether you're a fashion rebel, a trend addict, a clown, or a style muffin.

1. Your best friend shows up at school in UGGs. You've always hated UGGs, but you really need a new pair of boots. You...
a) Run to your nearest UGG store and buy the same ones.
b) Buy Sorels. With multi-coloured laces.
c) Settle for your sneakers and hope for the best. You're poor.
d) Wear high heels because you'd never wear those hideous things.

2. Spotted: Cameron Diaz wearing leggings as pants.
a) Sigh with relief. I knew that was a thing.
b) Wear them as a top. Never tried that one, did you?
c) Top her by wearing sweatpants. In public.
d) Cringe. Why Camy why?

3. Finish this sentence. Raincoats are for...
a) Losers.
b) Dancing in the rain.
c) Practical purposes.
d) You mean trench coats, right?

4. Every woman must have X in her wardrobe.
a) X = EVERYTHING
b) X = A florescent jumpsuit
c) X = Denim
d) X = A pair of impractical shoes

5. Cara Delevingne is...
a) Soooooo coooooollllllll.
b) My best friend.
c) Who?
d) The top british model in the world and Karl Lagerfeld's dream daughter.

MOSTLY A's: You Are A Trend Addict
You live off magazines with the latest trend reports because they decide your wardrobe. After each season, it's time for a cleanse. You invite your friends over to get rid of those uglies in exchange for the hottest new Hermes. You've been called a shopaholic, but no matter. You're always the trendiest girl in the room. Everyone wants what you have. You can spot trends better than you pick your men. It's a skill.

MOSTLY B's: You Are A Clown
You love to fool around and make silly faces a la Cara. Your favourite outfits usually consist of a one piece with a loud print. You make a statement every time you walk into a room and you can't help being the entertainment at every party. You're a street style photographer's dream and it's only because they can tell that it all comes naturally to you. You enjoy changing your hair on a monthly basis and exploring looks that nobody would dare try purely for the thrill.

MOSTLY C's: You Are A Fashion Rebel
You're not the biggest fashionista in the bunch, but you know who you are. You've already established what you like and don't like, so you know how to shop in the most practical way. You hate people who follow trends because you perceive them as poseurs. You believe that identity showcases itself through what you wear, so lying is almost sinful. You stay true to yourself at all times even if others disagree with you. You like to break the mould, while remaining practical on some levels.

MOSTLY D's: You Are A Style Muffin
You adore fashion and thrive in front of a camera. You will defy practicality and comfort #forthesakeoffashion because you can't resist. Fashion is your weakness, your drug, your chocolate cake. You're that girl layering to no end at Spring fashion week in New York in the dead of winter. You wear high heels no matter what the occasion just because you know it looks better with everything. You'll explore a trend here and there, but you prefer to remain spontaneous in your outfit choices. Creativity is your mantra.

#ForTheSakeOfFashion Part III: Cutouts

Fine. Admittedly, cutouts can have a purpose.

1) Getting a summer breeze in odd places.
2) Sexiness (that counts as a purpose)
3) Scratching unreachable locations

via thefashionisstyle.com

However, they can still fall under items worn #forthesakeoffashion because none of these purposes are practical or real. Yes, fashion can be practical (as Coco Chanel once demonstrated), but as a general rule, we like it best when it isn't. If people only dressed themselves based on practicality, originality would cease to exist. Nobody would be surprised by what you're wearing and frankly, who doesn't love surprises? The celebrities and common folk who attract the lenses of street style photographers are the ones who wear something unexpected. Boots with a dress. A sweater tied around their waist. A fur the size of a house. Those are the ones that catch our eye and that's what #forthesakeoffashion is all about.

Today is actually about cutouts. Cutouts have resurfaced in the strangest of places. I'm not talking about lace or crochet, but those unexpected cutouts that add intrigue to the outfit. A cutout suggests danger. It suggests you may have ripped your dress and improvised with a needle and thread to put it back together. It suggests imperfection.

Designers and photographers adore imperfection. It's about that gap tooth, the doe eyes, the bushy brows. It's about asymmetry. Imbalance. Perfection doesn't exist anywhere other than our boring imaginations. If we dig a little deeper, we find ourselves drawn to the weird a la Marc Jacobs.

So, let out your inner Marc Jacobs and take a look at some inspiring cutout pieces.

...


xoxo,

Bella

The Black Shoe Problem

We all have a common disease. When it comes to shoes, black is always our first choice. Why? Duh. It matches EVERYTHING. It's a classic. It'll never go out of style. It's a great go-to. Shall I list more obvious reasons?

So what happens to all the other shoes?
They go to all those famous celebrities with enough money to explore other colours.
They go to the bloggers who seek unique pieces that will amp up their outfits.
They go to the shopaholics of the world.

via nymag.com

Why don't we normal folk appreciate a coloured shoe? Are we simply too afraid to try it? What if we all decided that our clothing should remain neutral and our shoes should stand out? (I'd vouch for that)

Now, this is a huge problem because we find ourselves in a sea of black shoes without a colour in sight. And a world with no colour(ful shoes) simply isn't a world!

How do we solve this problem?

Let's make a pact. We should all purchase one pair of impractical shoes in a colour we'd usually never dream of wearing. Remember that anything is possible with a basic black or white tee and jeans and of course, colour blocking skills.

So, what are you afraid of?

Here are some shoes to inspire you:

...

#IconCity: Another Reason To Be Jealous of Suki Waterhouse (Other Than Bradley Cooper)

I know that Suki Waterhouse is fresh out of the stork's basket, but she's still worthy of IconCity because she encapsulates that London cool we all aspire to. A sprinkle of retro, some Burberry coats, a few rockstar booties, and enviable hats place her on every best dressed list and her growing popularity caused by her adorable blondness and beau, Bradley Cooper, cannot be denied. Discovered at the ripe age of 16, Suki Waterhouse is a fashion editorial princess who can do no wrong. With that innocent look reminiscent of Twiggy, she may be the next big London face (watch out Cara).

Here are some of her best looks:

LOOK 1

Anyone who can pull off the floppy hat is a winner in my book. Go Suki!

via howtochic.blogspot.it

LOOK 2

Suki masters the masculine chic look with a grey Burberry suit and killer wedges. I envy.

via Elle Uk

LOOK 3

The moment I laid eyes on this dress, I fell in love with Suki Waterhouse. She's a vision in baby pink Emilia Wickstead and I WANT.

via Elle UK

LOOK 4

Somehow, this look captures sexy schoolgirl without trying too hard. How? Only Suki knows.

via whowhatwear

LOOK 5

Can I please be cool enough to wear this metallic jacket? K, thanks.

via Vogue UK

That's all she wrote folks. Keep your eyes peeled for Suki. She's a fashion force to be reckoned with.

Bella

Your Guide To Wearing A Mini Skirt

With the return of mod style on all the runways, it's no wonder the mini skirt has made a major comeback.

Now, I know what you're thinking. Full skirts and midis are CLEARLY the trend of the moment.

Don't you think I know that?

But, it can't be denied that the mini is slowly easing its way back into our world.

Fashion is all about those extremes and I love when two opposing trends meet halfway across the runway.

Now, here's the rub. While the midi skirt is a comfortable and chic look that even a short girl like myself can pull off with the highest of heels, the mini poses a problem: How do you know when it's TOO short?

After serial watching Mad Men, I can't help but wonder: how does Megan Draper sit in those skirts? Is she just wearing really pretty underwear that she's anxious to show? What is the key to wearing a mini?

If your worries resonate with mine, you can stop right here. Here is your guide to wearing a mini without looking like you whored it out this season.

NUMBER 1

Wear A Culotte

If you're worried about the mini revealing a little too much, a culotte is a great alternative. Popularized by fashion retailer, Zara, It looks like a mini skirt in the front, but there are actually shorts (party) in the back to prevent wardrobe malfunctions.

via look.co.uk

NUMBER 2
Try An Oversized Sweater
Even if you aren't wearing a micro mini, an oversized sweater gives off the illusion of a shorter skirt. It also happens to look cozy and cute.

via alltheprettybirds.blogspot.com

NUMBER 3
Wear tights
If you're looking to pull off that mini look, but aren't too keen on showing off your legs, wear a pair of opaque tights. Try something funky for added fashion flair.

via myneonrock.blogspot.com

NUMBER 4

Wear it with a structured blazer.

Nothing classes up a look quite like a blazer. Try the new matching trend by wearing a blazer with the same print as your skirt. It may be short, but you'll still look sophisticated.

via vivaluxury.blogspot.ca

NUMBER 5

Wear it with a plain t-shirt.

Keep it casual with a simple t-shirt a la normcore. That way, nobody will think you tried too hard to look sexy.

via popsu.gr

It's time to get risky. Ignore the stigma and get yourself a mini this season!

Toodles,

Bella

Overdressed Vs. Underdressed: Who Will Prevail?

The overdressed and underdressed battle is one that never seems to draw a satisfying conclusion. Some would say that being overdressed is better because we'd all rather raise eyebrows for looking better than everyone else than looking worse, right? Unfortunately, some still disagree, saying that being overdressed draws unwanted attention and that if you're underdressed, you'll look like you didn't try to hard. In other words, you were born this cool.

When faced with this kind of dilemma, what do you do?

A pro/con list, of course!

So here it is. The official pro/con list for being overdressed vs. underdressed. After you've gotten all the facts, you'll be ready to make a sound decision.

OVERDRESSED

via fashionnetasia.com

Pros:
- All eyes will be on you because you'll probably be the hottest person in sight. What's so bad about that?
- You will radiate confidence. If you own your look, you'll find your friends wishing they could pull it off and that's always a great place to be.
- You'll look expensive. Being overdressed always makes it seem like you've got a high class wardrobe. You just slipped this on because that's what casual means to you, right?

Cons:
- People might think you tried too hard. Highly frowned upon.
- You may be perceived as a someone with a superiority complex.
- You can be seen as a diva. Not always positive connotations.

UNDERDRESSED

via www.justthedesign.com

Pros:
- You'll look like you "woke up like this". In fashion speak, that's a good thing. Looking this good just comes easily to you.
- You will have mastered the biggest trend of the season: Normcore.
- You will inevitably look cool because effortless is synonymous with cool in the fashion world. Duh.

Cons:
- You may look like you didn't really put any thought at all into your outfit.
- You can be perceived as lazy (or like you didn't have anything better to wear).
- You can appear as though you have no nicer clothes...

Now, roll the dice and make your decision. If these lists only confuse you further, just ignore what others might think and consider your own personal style. What do you FEEL like wearing? Or, if you're still concerned, go casual chic with an outfit that combines the fancy with the every day. Embrace your creativity and all eyes may be on you for the right reasons.

Ciao,

Bella

The Maxi Dress: The Key To Your Summer

I have a theory. My theory is that dresses were invented to facilitate a woman's life. I don't care if your average feminist next door is loyal to her pants. I LOVE pants too and dresses are not what they used to be. I acknowledge the magic of the modern dress as an easy outfit choice with an endless list of accessory possibilities. It's the next best thing to pyjamas.

And in the summer? There's nothing more beautiful than a maxi.

Once upon a time, I thought my height would prevent me from finding the perfect maxi dress. No matter how hard I looked, I always found one that was 6 inches too long. No, I did not feel like getting it hemmed (do I have time for this?). Eventually, I landed on a dress that would work with 5 inch heels. (score!). That day, I discovered the beauty of the maxi.

Whether boho chic a la Rachel Zoe or simple and sweet, the maxi is that easy solution to your summer day. Not sure what to wear? There's a maxi dress waiting inside your closet yearning to be worn. You can never have too many. In fact, sometimes your shorts get lost in the mix because they simply don't promise the same kind of comfort. A maxi every day keeps the doctor away, right? I'm sure it's something like that...

So, if you haven't gotten one yet, I promise you this: you WILL find the one. And once you do, you won't want to take it off!

Check out these maxi dresses for inspiration:

...

Now go shopping, girl! You deserve it.

Bella

Couture, Couture, Couture

When I go to bed at night, I don't see stars. I see couture. I know that sounds like a fashion girl's exaggeration, but I promise it's true. I fantasize about those beautiful gowns in fabrics nobody has ever seen all the time. I dream of Elie Saab lace, Giambattista Valli's architectural cuts, and that classic Chanel tweed with a Karl Lagerfeld twist. This season was no different. In case you missed it, here is the lowdown on five of my favourite shows from last week's couture extravaganza.

ZUHAIR MURAD

If only I were a wealthy celebrity walking down the Red Carpet every other day. Zuhair Murad brings back his classic evening gowns with even more glitter and sparkle than ever before. Despite his use of neutral colours, the embroidery and sheer panelling add intrigue to each look. This collection will inspire the dramatic diva with a glamorous edge who loves to stand out in a crowd. Halfway through the show, a panoply of colours mades their way down the runway, like a glowing rainbow of couture. Mesmerized? Me too. The wedding gown finale was nothing short of exceptional with a 5 meter long veil for extra dramatic flair.

Favourite Look: 1

Sexy, sparkling, and with a deep V that'll drop every jaw, this look was pure perfection.

CHRISTIAN DIOR

Full skirts, pretty pastels, floral prints. That basically sums up Dior Couture. Nostalgic of the days when the real Christian Dior was making gowns for our favourite retro Hollywood starlets, this collection was a vision of elegance and poise reminiscent of Grace Kelly and Audrey Hepburn. Raf Simons incorporated sophisticated floor-length coats (only meant for the classiest of women) with classic pants in bold colours and pretty minis for the young at heart. Nothing says chic quite like Dior, the brand that will stand the test of time.

Favourite Look: 4

Personally? I'm a sucker for a full feminine skirt and pointy-toe pumps. It also happens to be a popular look this season. Nothing like the original image of femininity to take us back to our roots.

ELIE SAAB

Who doesn't love an Elie Saab gown? Always present on the Red Carpet, these dresses only show how much Elie Saab knows about what women really want. It's all about lace, lace, lace. Though his collections often seem to blend into one another and verge on safe, they somehow still dazzle the eyes of every onlooker. Pretty gowns with classy fur throws in intricate fabrics that are almost indescribable adorned the couture runway. It was a like a fantasy come alive (as usual) and I wouldn't be surprised if one of these gowns made an appearance in the near future. Keep those eyes peeled.

Favourite Look: 22

Nothing says glamour quite like gold. This Elie Saab gown is living proof.

GIAMBATTISTA VALLI

Couture Week always brings out the most feminine side of all of us. With floral appliqués, sheer skirts, and 60's bandanas, Giambattista Valli is no different. I sense that those bandanas may become the accessory of the moment on the Red Carpet and I can't wait. Of course, the feathers and fur remind us that it's still a FALL collection, but the flowers say that spring is never far away. A grand finale of feathered frocks with structured tops in bright colours added pizzazz to this already marvellous show.

Favourite Look: 17

Everything about this look is beautiful from the full skirt to the floral appliqués at the bust to the bandana.

ARMANI PRIVE

Armani Prive was my ultimate favourite this season due to the elegance and class that characterized each look. Unlike most of the couture collections, Armani Prive featured more dark and mystical colours than pastels. With classic black and white ensembles, the look was very modern and sophisticated, displaying femininity in a very different way. Red was the dominant colour of choice and capes, the accessory of the moment. All of the coats in the collection were divine. From bell sleeves, to luxurious furs to tulle pieces, the coats were definitely eye-catching. If the outerwear wasn't mind blowing enough, Armani added some head Gatsby-like head coverings we'll all be lusting soon enough. At times, it felt a little like my 10th grade science fair project being manipulated by a master. Somehow, Armani made it work and transformed it into a beautiful couture collection.

Favourite Look: 3

I have a soft spot for capes in general, but this one is on my wish list.

All images taken from Style.com.

In case you missed it, all the shows are available on YouTube.

Happy Monday!

Bella

#IconCity: The Collins Girl

Stylist or no stylist, nobody looks cooler than Lily Collins (red carpet or no red carpet). Everything this girl wears is something I wish I had in my wardrobe. The girl who starred in Mirror, Mirror and The Mortal Instruments looks edgier than ever no matter what she's wearing. Known for her killer brows (ones I believe were present BEFORE Cara's made it a trend), this celebrity's face is a statement in itself. She may have snuck her way into IconCity due to her famous father (Phil Collins), but nobody deserves to be there more than she does. In my imagination, she and Shenae Grimes are sipping cocktails at the bar while commenting on their next big film collaboration plans (one can only wish).

Here are some of her best looks:

LOOK 1

Lily Collins walks down the street looking cooler than any passerby in a basic tee and skinny jeans. Accessorizing with amazing black wedges and a 60s retro bandana, she knows how to make this outfit her own.

via vogue.es

LOOK 2

I love this look for a number of reasons. 

A) HER CRAZY UPDO

B) Thigh high boots WITH SHORTS (not the trashy kind)

C) Colour blocking PRO

D) Red Lipstick

And I'd wear it all in a nanosecond.

via stylishstartlets.blogspot.com

LOOK 3

As much as I usually cringe at patchwork denim, she makes me kind of love it. With this cream skirt and pointy toe pumps, she manages to make it look sophisticated. No easy feat.

via rdujour.com

LOOK 4

Lily takes the high-low to the Red Carpet and pulls it off with ease. Yet another wild updo makes us fall in love with her look and draws attention to her amazing eyebrows. Designer? Fausto Puglisi.

via stylishstarlets.blogspot.com

LOOK 5

Only a true fashionista can pull off a crop top on the Red Carpet. Classic black with a statement gold necklace and bracelet make this look the image of chic. Once again, I die for her (eyebrow) hair.

via stylishstarlets.blogspot.com

Which look is your favourite? Do you love Lily's style?

Have a good weekend!

Bella

Things To Do With Your Little Black Dress

Thanks to Coco Chanel, the Little Black Dress is currently a closet staple. All hail. It's also important enough to be written in capital letters.

The LBD is one of the most important items in a woman's wardrobe. Have a work function, but nothing to wear? Pull out that LBD. Got a last minute invite to your co-worker's wedding? LBD. Going out with the girls but not quite sure what to wear? LBD.

The Little Black Dress has solved nearly all of our problems. The only problem it does present is that fashion girls don't really like to wear the same thing over and over again (but that's not even a REAL problem). The solution? Amp Up Your LBD.

One of the best parts about a Little Black Dress is that you can wear it with nearly ANYTHING. Add a crazy shoe, a sparkly belt, or a statement necklace, and you've transformed your look from classic to "WOW". Not bad, eh? The LBD is known for its versatility, which is exactly what makes it so special. Sure, you can go buy a panoply of little black dresses to ensure that you aren't caught wearing the same one twice, but you can also fool the eye by accessorizing the right way.

Here are some of the various ways to wear your Little Black Dress.

Coloured Pumps

Wear them with coloured pumps like Julianne Hough for that pop of colour.

via www.stylebakeryteen.com

Belted

Wear it with a belt like Jourdan Dunn (preferably metallic for some added oomph).

via wheretogetit.it

Statement Necklace

Put on a statement necklace like Leighton Meester (on high necklines only).

via www.posh24.com

Bold Blazer

Add a sophisticated blazer like Liv Tyler (to make it work chic).

via www.stylebistro.com

Red Lip

My personal favourite? Add a red lip a la Marilyn Monroe like Ashley Madekwe (can't go wrong).

via peoplestylewatch.com

Like these looks? There are still many more options. Experiment and transform your little black dress. You'll come to find that it is the best purchase you ever made.

Bella

BIG NEWS: Kristen Stewart Cut Her Hair

Kristen Stewart chopped off all her hair and joined the ranks of Charlize Theron, Queen Bey, and J. Law. WHOOPI!

Somehow, this made the news.

There are only two possible reasons for this:

1) She is Karl Lagerfeld's choochoo (see here)
2) There wasn't much news going on yesterday.

via usmagazine.com

Kristen presented her "new look" at the Chanel Couture show, shocking onlookers. A few months ago, she died her hair a fiery shade of red and everyone was in shock. However, since strange hair colours were the trend of the moment, nobody really cared all that much.

Suddenly, she cut off all her hair because like a true celebrity, it doesn't take long for her to get bored of her look and the infinite access to hair stylists makes it as easy as brushing your teeth.

Some are calling her new waves retro. I'm not quite sure I concur, but I suppose the current retro movement has us all confused.

Perhaps I have a slight bias against K. Stew though. All things considered, I think she pulls it off. Whether she's still acting out after her breakup with Robert Pattinson or just sick of twiddling those thumbs now that the Twilight saga is over, we'll probably never know. Whichever it is, she is not ready to be forgotten.

What do you think of her new look? Is it totally edgy and avant-garde? Is it a sign that she's making her way to ICON STATUS? Was this Karl Lagerfeld's doing?

via usmagazine.com

Toodles,

Bella

Birkenstocks Are NOT Birkins

Can someone PLEASE tell me who decided to bring back Birkenstocks?

After seeing them on Heidi Klum, fashion blogger, Jules of Sincerely Jules, and even my style icon, Brad Goreski, my jaw dropped so low, it took a tank (full of Birkenstocks) to lift it back up.

What has happened to the fashion world?

Has everyone decided to opt for comfy/ugly because heels were just too painful? Did we simply forget about WEDGES?
Are these the "Uggs" of the summer (another debatable fashion trend that'll never really go away)?
Has everyone fallen on their head?

Sure, they promise comfort, but that's ALL they promise. Isn't fashion about style? Or perhaps that term has become so flexible that anything goes if a designer says it does.

After Phoebe Philo introduced furry flip flops at Celine, the fashion world turned upside down. Lo and behold, people actually started wearing them. For her Spring 2014 collection, Isabel Marant had her models walk tdown the runway in Birkenstocks and somehow, it looked ridiculously cool. And who can forget Karl Lagerfeld's newfound obsession with the sneaker? He practically invented "comfy chic".

Has the fashion world gone awry or are all the designers trying to make comfort and cool synonymous terms? If so, shouldn't I be more pleased? Isn't this the most wonderful news you've ever heard?

The comfort revolution has officially commenced and I can only wonder what will come next. Will we be seeing track-pants on the runway? Are slippers about to make their way onto the street style scene? If the pyjama suit could become a trend, all you really need is to have Marc Jacobs to introduce a pair of fluffy little piggy heads and it'll be fashion. Should we expect bathrobes to become a staple? What about (dare I say it) SWEATPANTS?

According to Karl Lagerfeld, "Sweatpants are a sign of defeat. You lost control of your life so you bought some sweatpants."

I guess it won't be Karl then. Perhaps Stella McCartney?

What do you think of the Birkenstock trend? Can ANYTHING become fashion if a designer puts it on a runway? Are Birkenstocks a sign of a comfortable future ahead?

Here are some trendy Birkenstocks to inspire you:

...

XOXO,

Bella

Uncommon Ways To Wear Your Denim

It's common knowledge that denim is a wardrobe staple. Unfortunately, that phrase has us all confused due to the large amount of denim styles that permeate the runways every season. Denim can refer to overalls if you're talking about the latest 90s trend to resurface. Denim could also mean classic blue jeans, but even that definition is foggy because we're not quite sure whether that means bootcut, skinny, or wide leg. What if denim is referring to a jean jacket? Would it be white washed, acid wash, or dark blue? What about coloured denim and ripped denim? What about the festival cutoffs? WHAT IS DENIM ANYWAY????????

Once upon a time, denim was a very simple term. We like to call those days "the days of the mom jeans" (which have mysteriously made a comeback). Today, denim is so diverse that our entire wardrobes can be comprised of denim. Isn't that wonderful?

Personally, I'm a big fan of denim. I can experiment for days. This season, denim has taken on new shapes and forms. Here are some of the ways to wear denim that make us all ask ourselves: should I or shouldn't I?

PATCHWORK DENIM

via brilliantdesign.wordpress.com

It looks like your average 3 year old's art project, but it kind of looks super cool on Joan Smalls. Am I as sexy as Joan Smalls? Can I pull off patchwork without looking like a homeless man? Ponder that...

OVERALLS

via thefrisky.com

They are just so darn CUTE on my little sister, but will I look like a child wearing them? Should this trend have stayed in the 90s? Will it turn me into a hipster? AM I a hipster?

TIE DYE DENIM

via allezboutique.com.br

Does this look like I did this at home? Is that a good thing? Did I accidentally mix them with other colours in the wash? Will people think I did?

DISTRESSED DENIM

via realstylenetwork.com

Will I look homeless? Will I look like the clumsiest person to hit this earth? Will people know I'm a badass and did this on purpose? Will I look like I have rage issues?

MOM JEANS

via modelinia.com

Do these make my ass look big? Do I look like I'm floating in momma's jeans? Should these have stayed in the 90s as well? Are they the most unflattering things I've ever seen? WHY AM I WEARING THEM?

I dare you to try one of these denim trends. Buy them at a cheap price if they scare you. If you feel like a model and wear them with confidence, you may actually stop the questions racing through your head and feel good in them. 

Happy Monday!

Bella