A Letter to Sleeping Bag Coats

Dearest Sleeping Bag Coat,

According to every fashion girl/model-off-duty/style blogger, you are a bit of an abomination. You counter everything I've spent all year working on by concealing my shapes, swallowing up my legs, and making me sweat underneath your excess weight. In reality, I should hate you. (Un)Fortunately, I don't. When push comes to shove, it's freezing outside. The arctic has hit Canada and like a comforting sip of hot chocolate, you make me feel warm and cozy inside and out. You're like a knight in shining armour, only slightly less shiny and much softer to the touch.

via elle.com

As much as I cringe at my reflection in the mirror or my impossible-to-fit-the-screen snapchat selfies, I still can't help but embrace you. You may not be a chic fourrure or as classy as wool, but you make me forget I live in the great white north for just a moment. You also make me feel like I haven't left my bed ALL DAY. And for that, I'm eternally grateful. As for your fashion value, some designers have chosen to let you in to their exclusive club (like Acne Studios, Balenciaga, and MSGM), while others have rejected you entirely. But a true fashion statement is prepared to accept and even welcome the rejection like a fashion faux-pas on a mission. Congratulations on being the most questionable winter staple and the most challenging one to love. Frankly, I still love you.

Happy winter,
Bella

A Full-Blown Easy-To-Read Fashion Week Recap

Too busy to keep up with Fashion Month's limitless list of designers this year? Guilty of not reading any of my previous posts recapping my top 5 best at the four capitals? None of this matters because I'm about to offer you one final chance at redemption: a full-blown easy-to-read fashion week (read: month) recap. Are you ready? This is what you need to retain.

Fall is all about outerwear and outerwear accessories that keep you warm, right? This season, we learned how to tie a scarf in a multitude of ways. The more it drags to the floor, the better. In New York, Marissa Webb was all about the effortless over-the-shoulder look, while in Paris, Karl Kagerfeld made us reconsider scarves altogether in exchange for a preppy cardigan wrapped around the neck at Chanel.

At Dries Van Noten, we learned that women should wear ties, though at Haider Ackermann, shirts were pretty much optional. But who needs shirts when your underwear can now be worn outside your clothing, as seen at Valentino and Philosophy Di Lorenzo Serafini? If you're a tad bit conservative, that's fine too. At Marco de Vincenzo and Karen Walker, it was all about those extra layers and at Akris and Paco Rabanne, our trusted turtle-neck was all the rage. Also, the oversized look was a major go at Balenciaga for those seeking comfort with a fashion edge. If sexy and exposed is more your thing, Paco Rabanne taught us how to wear crop tops to work (depending on the flexibility of your manager) and at Balmain, Louis Vuitton, and Moschino, we learned how to expose our shoulders. Perhaps shoulders are the new midriff? Think about it.

As you know, when it comes to brands like Julien Macdonald, Saint Laurent, and Mugler, the sexy look is always in. If you have the confidence of Jourdan Dunn or Gigi Hadid, these brands are for you and we probably can't be friends. Speaking of confidence, it may take a truckload to pull off the transparent pieces at Sonia Rykiel, Givenchy, and Elie Saab. Here's what I've learned. You're either wearing your lingerie out and exposed or none at all. Take your pick. As for some other trends, fringe is still in according to the great Elie Saab and so are wide belts (seen at Miu Miu and A Detacher). But the most important trend to follow is ruffles. Remember that. We saw them at Marissa Webb, Sonia Rykiel, Philosophy Di Lorenzo Serafini, Fendi, Kenzo, Chanel, Giambattista Valli, and every other show with an inkling of girlish charm. They are the best.

What should you wear outside? Shearling is obviously a must for next Fall (as shown at Carven), but if you prefer fur, it's the jelly to fall's peanut butter sandwich. Great advocates of fur include Fendi, Calvin Klein Collection, and J. Mendel. If a full fur is too much for you, you can also wear it as an accessory like at Sonia Rykiel. Another option is the cape, seen at Akris, or the main trend of the moment, the bomber jacket. According to Coach 1941, bombers are the bomb guys. Wear one. When it gets even colder, Demna Gvasalia of Balenciaga just made it okay to wear a massive parka, which you can pair with an A Detacher beanie. Some other crazy hat options were seen at Chanel, Daks, Gareth Pugh, and Louis Vuitton (if you're feeling a little whimsical or slightly outside the box). Even if it's cold outside, you should still wear your massive eyewear (because sun is still a thing in the winter contrary to popular belief) as Carolina Herrera, Monique Lhuillier, Karen Walker, and Anna Sui have taught us. But when it's raining, look to those transparent plastic head scarves at Christopher Kane (or your grandmother's closet) and the impermeable rain coats at Lacoste because rain is REAL guys. So is frizzy hair.

Ready for your beauty look? Black lips were major at Dior and Louis Vuitton. But according to Paco Rabanne, blue lips are suitable as well if you're feeling daring. If that sounds a bit too grim, try the fuchsia lip as shown at Alexis Mabille and Topshop Unique to brighten up those dark winter days.

Finally, layer all of your looks with pearls. Why? Because Karl Lagerfeld and Jeremy Scott said so.

If this list was too long for you, this is all you actually need to know.
1) Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid are interchangeable and irreplaceable. They swapped hair at Balmain and all the world was in awe.
2) Someone wore a chandelier at Moschino. Sia would be proud.
3) The set at Louis Vuitton was the best one. Karl Lagerfeld opted for no set this year and made a statement doing so. He also gave someone else a shot at blowing our minds. That someone was Nicholas Guesquiere.
4) Skinny legs are out. Not happening. Over. Move on.
5) RUFFLES.

And now that I am out of breath, you may rest and take what you can from this recap. I hope it offered you everything you were looking for and perhaps enticed you to check out some shows (or at least the chandeliers). If not, let's hope it was remotely entertaining.

LOVE,
Bella

Paris: The City of Lights And Elaborate Headwear

Paris Fashion Week is the one week in the year that I look forward to most. It is also the most challenging to condense into five collections because almost all of my favorite designers are in Paris. From Hedi Slimane to Karl Lagerfeld to the dynamic duo at Valentino, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli, these talented designers consistently go above and beyond my expectations. This season, Karl Lagerfeld took us to Cafe Gabrielle with models sipping tea in classic tweed suits. At Moncler Gamme Rouge, Giambattista Valli transported his audience to a riding show featuring models in riding caps and a finale of soldiers wearing head-to-toe red military suits and furry hats. Valentino was the star of the season due to a grand finale of Derek Zoolander and Hansel having a catwalk face-off. Keeping his trademark intact, Hedi Slimane was all about the dangerous bad girl who could care less about her reputation. McQueen was all about the wild hair and bondage inspired dresses and Giambattista Valli was infused with whimsical prints and girly frills. Though I was inspired by many of these collections, I chose five favorites to discuss today. However, I recommend it to everyone to check out all the shows on YouTube and Style.com. It was definitely a week to remember.

Let's review.

CARVEN

Carven was revived this season by Artistic Director, Guillaume Henry, who offered a fresh take on the brand. The statement piece was a disc necklace featured on many looks as the standout accessory. The show began with a lace white blouse and wraparound lilac mini skirt to introduce a feminine collection with mod vibes. Another reason I loved it? It seemed like everything was catered to a petite frame. From the skintight high-waisted pants in every colour to the cropped jackets, this was a fantasy for short girls everywhere. Though the models walked in loafers for the most part, the pants offered the illusion of height that petite ladies can only dream of. Will I be converting to flats? Probably not. But this collection made it something to consider. 

FAVOURITE LOOK: 15

via style.com

CARVEN SHOW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NEBfxePeiLE

VALENTINO

What do you get when you combine 80s music, two of everyone's fashion heroes from the 90s, and 60s geometric prints? A Valentino blast from the past salad. This year, Valentino took a turn for the retro without taking us as far back in time as they usually do. The designers began their show with basic monochromatic looks with prison stripes as the dominant print. There were some bold printed dresses topped with elegant floor-length fur coats and of course, the traditional Valentino lace and sheer paneling. But the real shining moment was when Derek and Hansel from Zoolander hit the stage and became the biggest newsmakers at Paris Fashion Week. It was definitely a show to remember.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 43

via style.com

VALENTINO SHOW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RHg59JR31ho

MONCLER GAMME ROUGE

Moncler Gamme Rouge was fashion month's grand finale and Giambattista Valli made sure it was a memorable one. From the moment his first model surfaced out of the mist in riding gear, we knew this was going to be way more theatrical than we are used to from the designer. Though the theme was consistent throughout the show, there were still some standout pieces I am dying to wear. From the white furry skirt to the oh-so-chic plastic raincoat and some mini neck scarves, I was absolutely smitten with this collection. Once again, mini skirts were the bottom of choice topped with matching jackets in tweed prints. Red was the colour of the moment and we found out why at the grand finale when a line of soldiers clad in red suits and furry hats walked onto the runway to welcome back the models. This show reminded us all that Giambattista Valli is a force to be reckoned with along the lines of, dare I say it, Lagerfeld himself. By placing him at the very end, they proved that he's just as worth waiting for as the legendary Marc Jacobs. Not bad, Valli. Not bad at all.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 27

via style.com

MONCLER GAMME ROUGE SHOW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrCMmpweyHM

ELIE SAAB

Elie Saab may have finally gotten the memo that his collections look a little too much alike. Taking on a darker turn this season starting with his backdrop mimicking a dark forest, the designer went from floor-length lace dresses to black minis and military jumpsuits. The show began with earth tones to reflect his inspiration, a natural landscape in a dark atmosphere. Some colourful floral prints were introduced towards the middle of the show that may inspire some celebrities on the Red Carpet. Saab took an edgier route with leather and cutout dresses, but maintained a girly image with his flared cuts and some floor-length flowy looks. Though this was a new approach for the designer, there were still enough Red Carpet looks to satisfy an audience anticipating that particular style. He managed to keep it fresh without tarnishing his image. Well done, Elie Saab.

FAVOURITE LOOK:

via style.com

ELIE SAAB SHOW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJQ1htzKZxI

CHANEL

This year's Chanel show was an ode to the original designer, Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel from the theme, Cafe Gabrielle, to the tweeds and pearls that dripped on the models. The best part? An ultra classy hairband with the double C's at the back of the head that nobody can stop talking about. This may have been my favorite Chanel collection in a very long time. Though I'm not usually one to be decked in head-to-toe tweed, these suits were gorgeous and unique, inviting me to explore the trend. Each one was entirely different, whether a monochrome look or with a touch of pink, and combined with the classic Chanel black and nude pump, it was nothing short of perfection. The Girl bag made its debut, a handbag in the shape of a buttoned cardigan that I hope to see on our favourite celebrities in the near future (*cough *cough Blake Lively). Let's not forget to mention the wide variety of interesting coats, whether a puffer that took puffy to another level, a cape, or a draped over the shoulders #forthesakeoffashion jacket, each one had its own personality to suit the wearer. With Cara's final twirl at the end and a small smile from Karl Lagerfeld, this show made everyone a little giddy and nothing has that effect quite like a Chanel runway.

FAVOURITE LOOK:81

via style.com

CHANEL SHOW: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKPRfbxUNXQ

Which show was your favourite this year?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

New York Fashion Week Review: My Top 5

Guess what? It's that time of year again. FEBRUARY. Yes, this month is terrible for a number of reasons: the excruciating cold, Valentine's Day, etc., but there is a silver lining that we like to call New York Fashion Week. This year, most of the designers stayed true to their image and though not many boundaries were broken, we felt a sense of warmth at the sight of Michael Kors' usual minimalist aesthetic and Vera Wang's almost entirely black collection. However, I still picked five of my favourites to review. Ready?

TIMO WEILAND

This was one of my favourite shows this season in New York because every piece looked exactly like something I would love to see in my closet. A bunch of silly beanies, some oversized sweaters, a few adorable mini skirts to compliment said oversized sweaters, PYJAMA SUITS (which I am finally starting to understand as a fashion statement), and round sunglasses (my favourite shape of eyewear). Stripes were the dominant print in this collection and were featured in almost every look. Fringe even had a moment and so did the abstract painting motif. As a whole, this looked like the most comfortable looking wardrobe I could ever aspire to and I wanted all of it.

MY FAVOURITE LOOK: 17

via style.com

3.1 PHILLIP LIM

This collection was way too cool for school and as a result, I was instantly drawn to it. My favourite fabric made an appearance several times in the form of high-waisted pants and sleeveless vests. Yes, I am talking about leather. In this case, the print was plaid, which made total sense as it is a Fall/Winter collection after all with punk rock inclinations. Though the collection was dominated by neutrals, there were some splashes of red and based on my deductions, this may just be the happening colour of Fall 2015. Just a wild guess. It felt very downtown chic meets utilitarian with structured jackets and blazers in various shades of khaki. Bomber jackets also made an appearance because what cool girl doesn't wish to own a bomber?

MY FAVOURITE LOOK: 5

via style.com

RODARTE

I confess. I am drawn to all things edgy with a pinch of attitude and this collection was exactly what the doctor ordered. Leather mini skirts? Check. Puffer jackets with fur trimmed hoods? Check. Hot pants? Check. This collection was the epitome of sexy and conjured images of Kate Moss in the 90s. It projected that good girl gone bad look with a few lace tights and boudoir-inspired outfits. Looks like someone was inspired by Fifty Shades of Grey. Or perhaps we're all just in a flirtatious mood. Could it be the Valentine's Day spirit? As with many of the most recent collections, this one was very much inspired by a 70s aesthetic with deep V necklines and checkered blazers in mustard and greige. According to the designers, their ideas behind the collection began with birds and if you look closely, it's written all over the clothes. Yes, I'm talking about those sparkly feathered numbers that closed the show. These designers definitely know how to make a statement.
Watch it here. 

FAVOURITE LOOK: 16

via style.com

NANETTE LEPORE

This collection touched a much more feminine side of me and it started with that stunning purple lip I immediately wanted to try. Let me begin by saying that I lusted after absolutely everything in this collection from the matching pale pink set at the very beginning to the checkered jumpsuit in the middle to the long raspberry coat at the end. There were so many splashes of wonderful colours, it almost didn't feel like winter for a moment. If you're in the mood to be girly, there were enough mini dresses for every day of the week and each one was amazing in its own way. Though the collection started with some loose draping, the designer introduced some sensual black lace to give this seemingly innocent wardrobe some edge. It was perfect.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 4

via style.com

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

Peter Copping took the reigns and though we all miss Oscar dearly, he did him proud. He kept the original designer's aesthetic with sophisticated and feminine looks including some classic tweed suits and a few flared skirts. Though the hems were higher, they remained elegant and refined for the Oscar woman at heart. Frilly blouses paired with minis were precisely my cup of tea and the little bits of fur made it all the more glamorous. The show ended with some Oscar potential dresses and a few cocktail selections for the bold amongst us. Yes, I'm talking about that off-the-shoulder gold dress and the colour-blocked one that closed the show. It was definitely cocktail hour at De La Renta and everyone showed up wanting to leave a lasting impression.
Watch it here.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 50

via style.com

What did you think of New York Fashion Week? Which collections were your favourites?

Ponder It,

XOXO,

Bella

The "Dirty Hair" Look: Will It Ever Catch On?

The week at New York Fashion Week, our very own Alexander Wang had models walk down the runway with hair in a state that we would never leave our house in. It looked nothing short of greasy and stuck on your face like they hadn't washed it in over a week. Wang loves to push the envelope and take an unconventional route in his shows, but whether the fashionistas of this world will adopt this look is another question altogether.

via fashionisers.com

 The question is: Is this fashion?

Several seasons ago, Prada had her models sport the exact opposite of Wang's, the wet I-just-showered look. It was definitely something we wouldn't mind trying ourselves. Is fashion transitioning into a more "easy" look when it comes to hair? In other words, are we spending way too much time with the hairdryer? Wang says yes. So does Miuccia. Perhaps our best look is one that is most natural.

With hairstylists running to and fro during fashion week, we can safely say they're doing their job, but their work is so expertly executed that it appears as close to natural as can be. However, we all know the secret behind the no-makeup makeup look. Only a true artist can achieve a natural look with the same amount of effort as the, shall we say, unnatural look. Without access to these stylists, can we even pull off runway hair? Should we even try? Is this merely an expression of artistic freedom or a message to the masses?

Though this hairstyle seems absurd to the average person, is it possible that Wang is trying to tell us something? Should we be taking a break from our intensive beauty routines and opt for something slightly less done? This is not a revolutionary idea. Beach waves are a prime example of keeping the hair as "natural" as possible. But we all know Blake Lively's hair does NOT look like that in the morning. Or do we? How about the mantra "I woke up like this" as adopted by Beyonce? Would it be so ridiculous to wake up and walk out the door without touching a strand? Is done-down the new done-up?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

10 Reasons Wearing Sunglasses Indoors Is NOT The Craziest Idea

via BBC

With Fashion Week just around the corner, I can't help but think about the fashion choices that will inevitably be made on the streets of New York come February 11th. I feel like a street style photographer getting his camera gear ready minus the credentials of Tommy Ton. Of course, I will be sitting at home flipping through photos on Style.com, but no matter. I will be there in spirit. One of my favourite fashion choices during Fashion Week happens to be the mystery of Anna Wintour's sunglasses. Why is this so mysterious aside from the obvious? She never takes them off. That's right. Any photo you spot of Anna features the sunglasses, whether indoors or outdoors. Though some may criticize this fashion choice and call her a snob, I beg to differ. In fact, Anna may have a purpose when wearing those sunglasses indoors. In honour of her bold fashion choice, I've decided to create a list that might convince you that you're the crazy one. Let's countdown.

NUMBER 10

Camera Flash

This is probably the most obvious reason to wear sunglasses indoors. At Fashion Week, there are cameras and iPhones flashing left and right. How can you possibly make sure you don't blink every five seconds or go blind? Imagine getting photographed squinty eyed during Fashion Week. There is nothing more horrific than that, except maybe an unwarranted panty shot. Perhaps Anna just has sensitive eyes and she wants to make sure she looks good in all the photos by keeping them protected. Or maybe not. Either way, flash is obviously a greater danger to us than the sun.

NUMBER 9

Personal Drama

Often, personal drama is overlooked in the midst of Fashion Week because honestly, who cares what's going on in your life when there are beautiful designs parading the runways for a month? However, not everyone thinks that way. Some of us are sensitive at certain times of the month and thus, we are more susceptible to crying at the smallest trigger. For example, if Jeremy Scott decides to show McDonald's on the runway and we're struggling to maintain our diet, that may be rough on our emotions. Enter sunglasses. After all, tears and running mascara is definitely not camera worthy.

NUMBER 8

You'll Look Cooler

This may not sound like a "logical" reason per say, but in fashion speak, it is. Why do sunglasses make you look cooler than everyone else? Well, for one thing, nobody knows what you're thinking. The truth is in your eyes, so without that window to the soul, you're a mystery to all those around you. And who isn't intrigued by mystery? When your life is an open book (like Kim K's), people have nothing to work for. If you're an enigma, everyone wants to know what's underneath the sunglasses which makes you more desirable as a human being. It's common logic, really.

NUMBER 7

They're Just Another Accessory

If we can carry handbags indoors, why not sunglasses? Will all the shapes and sizes out there, how can we possibly reserve this accessory for the great outdoors? There is nothing more fun than a pair of whimsical sunglasses shaped like hearts or clouds. They are the ultimate conversation starter and a playful accessory to add to your outfit. They can spruce up a basic look, because let's face it, they aren't just there to protect your eyes from UV rays anymore, are they?

NUMBER 6

You Can Go Out Without Makeup

Perhaps Anna Wintour hates removing her makeup every night. Some of us are way too busy for such banalities. Sure, eye makeup can be fun with all the colours of the rainbow to choose from, but sometimes, we just want to go natural. I know what you're thinking. Why can't you go natural and bare it all to the crowd? Maybe you want to live on the edge and leave people wondering whether you put makeup on this morning. Am I wearing mascara? Am I not? Am I wearing underwear? Am I not? It's the same thing really.

NUMBER 5

They Will Hide Your Hangover Face

If you're living the wild life, you may have partied last night, but since you're that important and you MUST attend Fashion Week, your hangover eyes are UNACCEPTABLE. In reality, who needs to see them? Since the beginning of time, people have been covering their eyes to shield the hangover and it has become socially acceptable. In fact, sunglasses are an indicator that you're probably invited to parties all the time and even if you aren't, what's wrong with projecting that image every once in a while?

NUMBER 4

You Can Look At People Without Them Knowing

Who doesn't love to people watch? Sometimes we just want to observe our surroundings unnoticed. That is perfectly okay. You can stare as much as you want because nobody will know. This is not crazy, contrary to popular belief, but in the age of Facebook stalking, it's a common practice. The important people of the industry such as Anna Wintour and Karl Lagerfeld need to be observant to further their careers. That's how you get inspired, isn't it? What writer doesn't eavesdrop on conversations to capture the reality of dialogue? Staring is just a necessary evil to developing your art.

NUMBER 3

You Can Avoid People Without Them Knowing

We all find ourselves stuck in situations where we don't want to talk to anyone. For example, pre-coffee, I refuse to make conversation. Unfortunately, some people might take it badly. Lucky for us, sunglasses are a great way to get rid of people. You may perceive me as a snob, but I just don't feel like talking because it's simply too early. Sunglasses are a better way out than the most delicately woven excuse.

NUMBER 2

You Can Sleep in Public

When life gets boring, you need a pair of sunglasses to doze off in any location you please. Anna Wintour has to watch an abundance of shows during Fashion Week and frankly, a woman like her gets bored and tired (like most of us). Sometimes we need to just take a quick power nap without anyone knowing. What better way to do so than behind a cool pair of shades?

NUMBER 1

For The Sake of Fashion

Because why not?

Convinced yet? This may be the cure to flash sensitivity and if it is, I'm signing that petition to bring this look to the masses.

XOXO,

Bella

Couture Week: A Whimsical Romance

As we enter Paris Couture Week, we're taken into a fantastical realm with a collection of dresses fit for a princess from a fairytale romance. As it ends slightly too quickly, we feel like we've reached the end of a tale as old as time and occasionally, we may shed a tear. The soft music pulls us into this world that has brought our vivid imaginations to life due to the creativity of some of our favourite designers. In many ways, Couture is better than Ready-to-Wear because it takes us back to the origins of fashion when that was all that existed and women dressed extravagantly every day. This year, we were taken back in time with Valentino, transported into a natural paradise with Chanel, caught in a maze of beautiful colours with Dior, immersed inside a world of romance with Giambattista Valli, and sprinkled with sparkle at Elie Saab. What did they all have in common? We could pictures ourselves in every outfit standing before our Prince Charming as he accosts us in his horse-drawn carriage. 
Let's review, shall we?

VALENTINO

From the braided updos to the frilly necklines, Valentino took us to another era, one more akin to Downton Abbey or The Knight's Templar. As usual, this collection was all about the elegance of the past with brocade prints, long hemlines, and peasant blouses. It was ladylike in an old-fashioned way that we wish still existed. Some velvet gowns stood out, particularly one in a rich red hue with a cape that added to its regal quality. Some subtle shades of beige were integrated to the collection, bringing us back to 19th century England, back when lovely maidens would frolic in the fields. A few romantic patterns were introduced as well on some of the final dresses, including flowers, clouds, and words from a love letter to Romeo. Evidently, these two designers were in a very nostalgic mood, longing for the golden days of romance before dating apps and hook-up culture ever existed.

My Favourite Look: 46

via style.com

CHANEL

Is there really a Couture show we look forward to more than Chanel? Probably not. We can always expect extravagance from Karl, something unusual that we never imagined possible. He dives into his imagination every year and stuns his audience with an awe-inspiring show. This year, that something was a garden of Eden of sorts with paper flowers in bright spring colours at the center of the runway. The show began with a young man in a straw hat watering this lovely garden as models in wide rim hats began to appear in bold shades of blue, yellow, and pink Chanel tweed. There were some beanies as well, but not the beanies we are accustomed to seeing on the streets of winter. These beanies were in pretty pale pink with a net to shield the eyes. What followed was a series of monochrome looks that took us back to the days of Coco, the woman who invented the LBD as we know it today. What was new? Some cropped blazers and blouses were a predominant look as well as an abundance of floral appliques, a popular style choice this season. Ruffles and sparkle were added to this feminine mix, making this collection the ultimate woman's dream. And of course, the show ended with a drool worthy wedding gown. Are you as smitten as I am?

Favourite Look: 38

via style.com

CHRISTIAN DIOR

This year, the Christian Dior collection consisted of the perfect combination of sexy, with thigh high patent leather boots in a variety of colours from blood red to mustard yellow, and ladylike, with A-line skirts taking us back to the New Look of yore. The vibrant prints came in a wilder form than usual with stripes and florals taking center stage as well as abstract head-to-toe whimsical looks in shades of orange, blue, and yellow. Regardless of the abundance of geometric prints, this collection kept the classic Dior silhouette intact with the full skirts of the 50's and the mini dresses of 60's splattered throughout the show. Bright shades of yellow, orange, and green emboldened this runway alive with artistic fervor. Let's not forget to mention the elaborate embroidery on many of these looks that teased the eyes and awakened all of our senses. Raf Simons may have taken a risk with this collection, but it was definitely a step in a more modern direction.

Favourite Look: 54

via style.com

ELIE SAAB

Whether you're a celebrity or a commoner (as I am), Elie Saab is every woman's Red Carpet dream. After all, who doesn't love beading and sparkle? Like at Chanel, we saw some bold floral prints, but this time, on sheer beige dresses. We were taken to an enchanted forest where you could feel the romance in the air, particularly with some of the final looks resembled water colour paintings, creating the illusion of a flower garden. As always, there were many dresses we'd love to see on celebrities like Angelina Jolie and Cate Blanchett at this year's Oscars. Lucky for us, the event is coming up in a few weeks and I can already envision a number of these pastel dresses making an appearance. With glamorous retro waves, some silver and some gold, as well as a few feathers, any of these looks would make for bold choices that can't go wrong. As usual, Elie Saab knows how to make women dream.

Favourite Look: 17

via style.com

GIAMBATTISTA VALLI

One of my own personal favourites, Giambattista Valli, never fails to impress. This season, he kept his feminine touch throughout the collection with his traditional pale pink, yellow, off-white, and black combo, while adding a little touch of darkness. With black hair nets, black bows, and sheer black skirts over black pants, this collection felt more like a dark fantasy in an enchanted forest of mystery. The full skirts, floral appliques, and flamboyant tulle, kept it girly and romantic as per Giambattista Valli's style. Even the soft french voice seduced us as we watched each model walk the runway in embroidered dresses with sheer paneling and frilly details. This designer proved that skirts over pants is the new normal and our traditional perception of the princess dress can be reshaped to suit our modern imagination. Pink fur, anyone? 

Favourite Look: 9

via style.com

These are some of my top picks for Paris Couture Week this year. Which shows were your favourites?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

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

Au Revoir, Paris

Paris Fashion Week has come to an end and it's time for us to say our goodbyes to Spring 2015 and face the music. It's actually almost winter. If this brings you down, just remember that you can always go on YouTube and take a revised look at your favourite shows to reminisce. Let's face it, Paris is always worth looking at more than once. At Louis Vuitton and Saint Laurent Paris, we were brought back to the MOD era with mini skirts and bold metallics. At Chanel, we experienced another spectacular show with a message that transported us to the hippie 70s. Elie Saab and Giambattista Valli brought us that femininity we all know and love that resonates with their brands, while Balmain kept it edgy to satisfy our darker side. Each collection brought back its own unique personality with a new twist. Many of the collections were familiar, yet refreshing to our saturated fashion minds. As per tradition, I shall analyze and observe the five collections I loved the most.

Here they are:

SAINT LAURENT

Saint Laurent is my favourite collection because it always projects this rock n' roll meets school girl vibe that resonates with me. From the enchanting music to the swivelling colours, the show was mesmerizing on so many levels. Hedi Slimane used fabrics suitable to an Haute Couture show on simple outfits you'd see every day. That's the sign of a true master. From the sequins to the glitter, it could've been a hot mess, but it was anything but. It was all about that rebel who couldn't give a damn whether or not she looks put together, but that's exactly her charm. My two favourite elements of this show? The classic black Saint Laurent hats and those platform wedges (Oh. Em. Gee). Based on Hedi Slimane and Tom Ford, the platforms are about to get even higher, so get ready. Hedi's use of leather and suede created an edgy vibe along with the glamorous use of furs and leopard print. His ability to mix prints blew my mind as everything came together in one unique composition. He took us to the 70s with androgynous pinstriped pants and micro-minis. It was all so glamorous with that Parisian "I don't care" attitude that makes it the best fashion city on the globe. Ooh La La.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 44

The mix of prints from the neck scarf to the blazer had me contemplating never matching again. Who needs to match when you can mix and match? But to be completely honest, I just really loved this leather skirt and that made the whole outfit perfect in my eyes.

VALENTINO

Every season, the Valentino collections takes us through a fashion timeline and we get to travel to an era were decadence was everything. Don't you wish that reflected real life? There were many bold prints at Valentino along with some classier monochrome outfits in lighter shades. Some lovely white lace dresses followed in flowy cuts that looked beyond comfortable and adaptable to a modern lifestyle. The shoes were a particularly interesting aspect of the show that brought us to ancient Greece, reminding us all that we are goddesses (especially in Valentino). Rather than displaying an array of floor-length dresses, Valentino brought us some more minis this year, which seems to be a trend amongst designers. Some side-boob made the cut, preparing us to see some more of it in the coming year on our favourite celebrities, but the overall collection remained tasteful and divine. There was such a kaleidoscope of colour throughout the show that played with the eye and couldn't be anything but beautiful. It was Valentino with a modern twist.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 26

Though I am not usually a fan of such a busy print, I loved that the designers weren't afraid to add a pop of colour to an outfit swallowed in prints. They took a risk and it worked beautifully.

MAXIME SIMOENS

The first thing that sold me during this show was that first crop top that said #colourful is the new black. Not only did it use the modern hashtag, but it also resonated with me because it used one of my favourite fashion cliches with a message I fully support. The collection defined sport luxe with stripes as the reigning print on short sets and shift dresses. Some more feminine looks were also present, particularly a bold flared orange dress and a colourful skirt that went with the theme. There was a sleeveless long blue vest, I wish I could purchase right off the bat because it happens to be in my favourite colour and super freaking cool. The looks were wearable and sophisticated with a message: you don't have to wear black to be chic. As a big fan of the shift dress, there were definitely a bunch I'd love to own. Overall, I'd say it was a great success.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 18

I loved this particular look for reasons stated above. Blue is my favourite colour and a girl who wears a cape obviously owns the room.

ELIE SAAB

Though Elie Saab sticks to that same sophisticated and feminine look every season, it remains a favourite of mine. I always know I'm going to want every piece in the collection. This season, some more colourful pieces added some flavour to the collection in bold prints on high-low flowy dresses and some shifts. For those who like a more monochromatic look, there were some amazing jumpsuits in pastel shades and black with lace detailing and draping fabric. The block clutches were particularly notable and a major selling point for the collection. Lace was still the fabric of choice, but it was explored in new ways that helped Elie Saab renew its image. As usual, there are many looks I'd love to see on the Red Carpet, one of which was a beautiful printed dress with a deep v. Some of the ombre numbers with high slits were also stunning Red Carpet options. Evidently, I always think of Elie Saab in terms of Red Carpet because that's what he does best and this season, he definitely delivered.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 35

This look was my favourite because there was something sporty about it, but yet, it still radiated femininity. Any look that can juxtapose the two is a winner in my book.

CHANEL

What is a runway? According to Karl Lagerfeld, it is a flexible term that he redefines season after season. Last spring, it was your local supermarket, and this year, it was the revolutionary streets in Paris. Rather than having models strut down the runway in a traditional one-by-one linear formation, they walked as a unified whole as they presented each selection of looks. The show began with some androgynous pinstriped suits in the classic Chanel tweed. Bits of colour were incorporated on blouses that brought us back to the hippie era where colour reigned supreme. Though Karl maintained the Chanel image with the tweed looks, he still added his own flavour with his integration of colour, a selection of military looks, and some very interesting clutches with the Chanel logo hanging on a chain. Some pieces felt like couture with their intricate beading and yet, I felt like this fit smoothly into a ready-to-wear collection due to that classic structural appeal a la Coco. Some beautiful metallics were also a major part of this collection, particularly in terms of accessories It was one of the most wearable collections, but still maintained that originality that defines Karl. It was everything we hoped for and more, including a few loudspeakers and some banners.

FAVOURITE LOOK:49

I loved this particular looked because it felt very Coco Chanel with that Karl attitude that I can't get enough of. The jacket was one of my favourite pieces in the show and don't even get me started on the loafers.

All images via Style.com.

So farewell Paris Fashion Week. What was your favourite collections? 

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

Don't You Wish You Were In Milan Last Week?

Milan Fashion Week was a conglomeration of sexy minis, hot pants, and a bit of Barbie. Unfortunately, it didn't amaze me in the same way New York did or even London, but it had its shining moments. Giambattista Valli took the Miu Miu route with his brand new collection, Giamba (which had me seriously confused at first glance. Who is this Giamba and where can I find his lovely clothes?). Cavalli, Dolce and Gabbana, and Gucci delivered as usual, but in a way that was utterly predictable like a romcom where the couple gets together in the end (not that I don't love those). DSquared2 and Moschino excelled at the theatrical by transporting us to the world of the ultimate diva whether in the form of Jeremy Scott's Barbie or Dan and Dean's fluff and froufrou. As per usual, Fendi was the best show at Milan Fashion Week and I don't say this because it's Karl, but it's undeniable that he's brilliant.

Let's recap my five favourite shows:

ERMANNO SCERVINO

Scervino is the epitome of Italian beauty: curvaceous, luxurious, and sensual. The show began with a few classic pieces like a pencil skirt in a bold blue hue or sleek strapless dress in a lovely shade of green. The vibe was very pastoral meets glamour (a combination none of us thought possible), particularly at the end with the floral print looks. Italians are also experts at choosing the perfect pieces of skin to display, including shoulders, midriff, and leg. With a few bra tops that were rendered tasteful with frilly blazers, these ladies captured femininity in its purest form. After exploring colour, Scervino reverted to classic white with intricate textures to add allure to each individual piece. And it wouldn't be Milan without some snakeskin, so that was another prominent feature of his collection.The show ended with an evening gown in a classic cut, that was anything but.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 27

I love designers who play with texture and this look aroused my desire for an outfit with interesting tactile appeal perfectly.

GIAMBA

When I first looked at this collection, I didn't know it was Giambattista Valli. I just thought it was incredibly pretty and imagined myself wearing every single piece. After scrolling through the entire collection, I discovered that my favourite couture designer was behind it and everything fell into place in my mind. The feminine silhouettes, the elaborate prints, the whimsical tights. It captured my personality in a nutshell. The entire collections projected a girlishness that was very Gossip Girl's Jenny Humphrey pre-makeover and I found myself feeling nostalgic. The platforms gave it that school girl touch I adore, but not without that Milan sex appeal integrated with transparency. It was a little Lolita with a touch of innocence projected through little white dresses with bouffant sleeves. As the show came to an end, the looks became more and more Valli with feathers and intricate stitch work. Every piece belonged in my closet.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 37
This is so girly and yet, the shoes give it that extra attitude necessary to take it from innocent to dangerous.

VERSACE

I don't know if it's the Vacarello influence coming into play, but I'm beginning to really appreciate the Versace aesthetic. The designer uses a minimalist approach to convey sex appeal, which makes the entire collection very model-off-duty. Perhaps the asymmetry in the first look drew me in or maybe the return of the crop top, which has grown on me with every collection this season. There was something about this show that kept pieces of the Versace we all love without being over-the-top 70s sexy as it usually is. There were some interesting details in the show like mesh top and skirt sets and some leather eyelets. There were some classic sixties shifts with some ostentatious prints and a few more subtle black looks. The loved the final pieces because they had graphic sashes and some Versace sparkle. It was definitely one of my favourite Versace shows yet.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 35

LES COPAINS

New creative director, Stephania Bandiera, blew my mind with this collection for Les Copains. Every piece was wearable and in one word, crisp. With clean white shirts and sleek cropped blazers, there were a number of pieces I wouldn't mind trying on for size. Literally. Some bold necklaces were combined with each predominantly white look to add some flavour and those wedges were definitely up my alley of footwear. The classic spring stripes made an appearance in grey and white and a floral print theme was definitely in that mix to remind us of what we love most about spring. Camo green and beige were other neutrals that surfaced with enough detailing to keep it interesting. Leaves were also displayed in a bold way on sweaters and clean cut dresses to promote the new season in the best way we know how: natural imagery. Finally, the show ended with some tribal prints and one particular red tribal print cape caught my eye. All in all, it was a great success for Stephania.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 14

This look captured spring for me with my favourite trend: the shorts suit. I love the edginess of this look combined with the inherent femininity. I'd wear this in a heartbeat.

FENDI

Is it wrong to say I love Fendi even more than Chanel? It's always so glamorous and projects a more youthful vibe than the demure Chanel tweeds. I look forward to Fendi every season for one reason: to find out how will Karl incorporate the Fendi fur. The designer didn't disappoint. His furry Karl keychains made an appearance to remind us of his ever present sense of humour. He brought florals to the table to keep up with the spring trend in a variety of forms from print to appliqués on a leather skirt I fell in love with just a little. Some asymmetry caught my eye on a few skirts and jackets. There was also a bit of shredding that reminded me of teenage angst (in a good way). The ombre effect was a nice surprise during the show that took the hair trend to clothing. A  few of those statement jackets are on my current wish-list along with a particular pair of baggy leather pants (a look I'm still trying to pull off). There were some interesting futuristic cutouts that are beginning to grow on me. It seems as though our Karl had some fun with that shredder of his. The show ended with some colourful feathers reminiscent of his fall Fendi furs. Say that ten times fast. I dare you.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 47

I know this isn't as wearable as many of the other looks from the collection, but it had that jaw-dropping factor which made it an instant favourite. If I get to see a blogger sport this look, my life will feel that much more complete.

All images via Style.com.

Which was your favourite Milan collection?

Ponder it.

XOXO,

Bella

So, New York Fashion Week Happened

September is the best month of the year (no, it's not my birthday). The fashion obsessed compulsively check their doorstep for that September Issue, while scrambling for a new fall wardrobe with a potential for cozy knits, oversized coats, and beanies. Personally, this is my favourite time of year because it happens to be fashion week, or shall I say, month. Though the thought of Spring collections makes us all slightly depressed, it also allows us to aspire to warmer days that will return as they always do. This year, New York Fashion Week was filled with beautiful crisp white, hints of transparency, gingham, and yes, florals. It was exactly what we wanted it to be and more. After watching all the runway shows, here is a review of my top five.

MICHAEL KORS

Traditionally, I haven't been much of a Kors girl. Though I love the accessories, the clothing always seemed far too wholesome for the edgier image I prefer to convey. Despite the long hemlines, I cannot wear due to my unnatural height, the overall feminine vibe of the collection definitely resonated with me. Some of my favourite things were present during the Michael Kors show, including Peter Pan collars, structured coats, matching sets, and a dash of midriff. It made me think of picnics in the park with those you love on bright summer days. Though this may have been due to the striking yellow coat that made its way down the runway, it was also reflected in the gingham print spread across various looks in the show. A bit of plaid reminded us that gingham is not a replacement, but simply another print that makes us all feel wholesome as can be. And if you're looking for a classic white blouse, Kors is the way to go. Michael Kors is a classics man and if you love a good classic, you're in for a treat.

My Favourite Look: 54

I may have chosen the most daring look in the collection (mostly because it's head-to-toe black), but it's only because it's the one that reflected my personality the most. I'm still not over those crop tops, and apparently, neither is Michael Kors. I love the juxtaposition of a simple crop top with a full skirt filled with eyelet motifs. Edgy meets feminine? 'Tis simply divine.

HONOR

Every season I dwell on how much I love Honor and the fact that it is an underrated brand. This season is no different. The collection takes me back to my girlish roots with whimsical prints reminiscent of a healthy candy addiction and oversized bows. As someone who's a self-proclaimed sucker for bows, I couldn't resist much of the collection as it satisfied my deepest fantasy. Though there was a lot of white, Giovanna Randall played with textures in a way that made me fall in love with every LWD in sight. The hints of baby blue were positively delightful and one particular bright orange vest caught my eye. I sincerely hope to see Zosia Mamet sport one of these looks. Fingers crossed.

My Favourite Look: 8

Contrary to the Michael Kors look I chose, this one satisfies my more whimsical side. I love the layering on top as it adds an interesting texture to a simple dress. And as much as I'm a heels girl, I'd buy those flats in a heartbeat.

J. MENDEL

Say what you will, but it takes a true genius to dare to incorporate fur in a Spring collection. Gilles Mendel wouldn't have it any other way. According to Style.com, the collection was inspired by artist, Enoc Perez, a man who shares a mutual love for architecture with the designer. The aesthetic appeal was accentuated by this shared passion through the abstract designs on many of the dresses. Whether a mini or a maxi, every piece was a work of art, but still wearable as can be. The pretty pleats and sexy high slits added some feminine flair, while other looks took on a more structured approach. A particular white jacket caught my eye and I haven't been able to get it off my mind since. With each look, the collection got edgier as leather began to surface, particular in a striking red. Let's not forget those adorable red handbags that were simply to-die-for.

My Favourite Look: 41

There is no combination I love more than a jumpsuit with leather. The slight peak of red makes this look even sexier and increases my obsession with it. And don't even get me started on those shoes.

OSCAR DE LA RENTA

Oscar knows what women want. According to Karlie Kloss, his choochoo, this is a given. Every year, Oscar brings us lovely full skirted gowns that we all dream of wearing on a Red Carpet. This year, there were a few more wearables in the mix that I'm coveting. Once again, there were some crop tops that made it into the mix, proving that they aren't ready to disappear from the fashion scene just yet. Just like in Michael Kors, gingham was the print of choice and pastel pink, the dominant colour. Every pair of shorts on that runway was screaming my name. A few eyelets were introduced as well on full length Oscar skirts and sleeveless blouses. It was all very sophisticated and we were transported to a garden party featuring the most important guests (including the Duchess Kate herself). I hope to see her in one of these looks, but no promises. The biggest surprise was the abundance of oxfords that contrasted with the supremely feminine looks. It was all feathers, floral appliqués, and a Karlie Kloss finale. It was so very Oscar and so undeniably perfect.

My Favourite Look: 40

Sasha Luss looks magnificent in this sparkly flared dress by Oscar. The necklace is a great statement piece without being too loud and everything about this says "wear me".

CHRISTIAN SIRIANO

Who doesn't love Christian Siriano? He captures that feminine flavour better than anyone. More crop tops made an appearance in his collection and this put a smile on my face. Siriano played with transparency and transformed some basic white dresses into magical pieces of art. The feathers reappeared, predicting a new trend, and a bit of sparkle was integrated into the collection to make some pieces Red Carpet worthy. The collection ended with a soft mint green and a jumpsuit only Beyonce could pull off. No matter. Fashion is all about aspiration, is it not? 

My Favourite Look: 9

This is my new favourite LWD. It may look like a classic white dress at first, but if you look at the detailing, you know you're in the hands of an artist. 

All images via Style.com.

Which collection was your favourite?

Ponder it.

XOXO,

Bella