Paris Is Over: Let's Talk About It

Paris Fashion Week is like the whipped cream they add on top of your sundae after multiple layers of chocolate sauce, 3 scoops, and maybe a few mixed nuts. In other words, it's the best part of fashion month and deserves to be savoured. For those of us who aren't running from show to show in the fashion capital (but studying for a math midterm), this savouring can be a challenge, but a necessary one that provides solace in times of high stress. Now, let's cease the chatter and talk Paris. We have some of our top designers in Paris who return every season with a mindblowing collection that never disappoints (regardless of numerous departures behind the scenes): Christian Dior (the powerful opener filled with equally powerful beauty looks to compliment some highly enviable outerwear), Chanel (the reinvention of tweed suits, romantic ruffles, and funky, yet elegant, equestrian hats), Giambattista Valli (the flirtatious mini dresses filled with ruffles and transparent accents), Balmain (glamour fit for the KardashaJenner in all of us), Givenchy (a hint of darkness for the rebel with a (fashion) cause), Valentino (the conservative brand that takes us back to the dark ages in a fresh and bright new way), Saint Laurent (the 80s throwback brand with major bad girl vibes), and Louis Vuitton (the grand conclusion that offers architecture in clothing that appeals to the structured woman in all of us). Some of the more under the radar brands include Kenzo (always offering some wild prints to tickle our fancy), Nina Ricci (presenting the powerful feminine figure with hourglass cuts), and Carven (offering wearable chic and effortless french fashions). There are many more I would mention if this weren't becoming a run-on list of fashion's top designers, but you get the gist. Paris is the motherload. Now, on to the reviews.

CHRISTIAN DIOR

Dior always opens Paris Fashion Week with a bang. As you may (or may not) know, Raf Simons has left the building and the brand was forced to reinvent itself without losing his very valuable touch (there's a reason this is the first show and we don't want that to change). Though this was a challenge, the show still presented a memorable collection featuring classic outerwear the brand is known for, some bold print choices, a vast array off-the-shoulder looks, this season's latest trend. As for beauty, the models added a dark edge to their soft Dior outfits with some black lipstick and heavy ear accessories. The low buns kept it classic and simple, drawing attention to the sophisticated pieces that descended the runway. Whether an oversized double-breasted coat or a loose off-the-shoulder dress, the collection kept that effortless Parisian look alive while still adding some creative prints for extra flavour.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 28

via vogue.com

ALEXIS MABILLE

Every time I review the fashion month collections, there's always one that present a series of looks I would simply love to wear. It's not about the show or the art or the intricate detailing on each look. Rather, it's about my closet and personal taste in fashion. In Paris, the collection that offered exactly what I was looking for was Alexis Mabille. Don't be mistaken, this does not mean it was boring. That is downright offensive to myself and the designer. First of all, I learned how to tie a scarf in an elaborate and unusual way. I also learned how to simultaneously be blond and brunette and how to pull off very flashy flared pants (it's clear the skinny jean is dying and I may actually require this skill in future). Reasons I loved this collection? There were many statement accessories to capture my attention (including some big necklaces that stood out yet blended with the clothing in some strange way), there were plenty of ruffled necklines to make the little girl in me smile, and some pieces looked a little like haute pyjamas (which I'm quickly warming up to). Predominant colours? Pink and navy. It's evident, darkness and light played a huge role in this collection. Can I have all of it, please?

FAVOURITE LOOK: 17

via vogue.com

CHANEL (duh)

As much as I hate being predictable, I really do love Chanel. Karl's collection probably resurfaces a lot in my reports because frankly, he's a bit of a genius. This wasn't my favourite from the designer, but I love the layers and layers of pearls that complimented every single look and of course, the whimsical hats. I'm not quite sure whimsical is the word Karl would have used, but let's face it, they looked like a blend of equestrian and bike helmut. One notable accessory? (other than the hats) The rainboots! Who doesn't love a chic pair of rainboots for Fall to compliment your fuchsia Chanel skirt? It's clear, high heels are not part of the Chanel vocabulary and frankly, the heavy jewelry and tailored pink suits are feminine enough to make a stiletto highly unnecessary. After all, wasn't Mademoiselle Chanel all about the practicality? And nothing is more practical than a pair of knee-high rain boots (or even just your basic leather equestrian boot).

FAVOURITE LOOK: 87

via vogue.com

CARVEN

Another underrated brand at Paris Fashion Week? Carven. Perhaps it's the Doctor Jeckyll to my miss Hyde, but as much as I love a good bow and frill a la Chanel, Carven reinvigorates my masculine side and makes me want to wear bomber jackets and slouchy black pants. This entire collection was fit for the sexy tomboy who will rock a mini every now and then, but is in her element in a bright coloured bomber in her favourite sports team's colours (or maybe she just likes colour). Though my favourite looks were a tad girly (I must confess), a classic coat with a white fur collar and fitted purple mini dress, I couldn't help being drawn to a certain oversized sweater and cropped grey pants. Let's just say the tomboy in me woke up and yearned to add a little gamine twist to my ever so girly ruffles and lace. One thing to retain from all this? Shearling's the word for Fall 2016. So, spread it.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 16

via vogue.com

ELIE SAAB

Elie Saab always feels predictable to me with the long lace embellished dresses fit for a red carpet starlet, but for once I can say that this collection felt entirely different. Don't get me wrong, there were plenty of long gowns, but the lace was a little more black boudoir (a little less pastel pretty) and the cuts were slightly more sexy and flowy (a little less conservative). It was Elie Saab revamped for the girl who leaves the party in a biker jacket and doesn't hesitate to rock a floppy boho chic hat to her next black tie event. Some of my favourite looks included a flowy bohemian dress in a tie-dye print worn by none other than Kendall Jenner and a sparkling black mini dress worn with a very large hat I cannot stop obsessing over. It seems the designer is becoming a little more rock n' roll, a little less princess. Or perhaps a rock n' roll princess? Needless to say, I loved him even more for it. And also because there were so many ruffles.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 14

via vogue.com

Which collection was your favourite at Paris Fashion Week? Was it one of these or perhaps a unmentioned one like Balmain or Giambattista Valli? 

Ponder it,

Bella

Time To Review Milan, Yes?

With Milan Fashion Week comes that bittersweet sensation that Fashion Month is about to come to an end. It is the third of the four fashion capitals and thus, it is with slight sadness that we part ways and enter our final city. Before we do so, I'd like to reflect on the magic that took place in Milan this past week. Let me begin by saying that I may be tearing up as I write this report, but Milan brought joy and happiness to my heart with every runway show. This season, it was all about loud retro prints, some romantic cuts, and a heck of a lot of colour. We saw an array of mixed prints at Emilio Pucci and Salvatore Ferragamo to make us feel like we were on drugs. The rock n' roll glamour at N21 and Roberto Cavalli also happened to have this affect. And how about those retro cuts and geometric shapes at Prada and Gucci for the quirky girl in all of us? There was something for everyone at Milan Fashion Week and though each collection showcased something different, they all shared one common feeling: vivacity. If there's anything one can learn from Milan, it's how to embrace life, and in this case, fashion is what breathed life into all of us. Now, let's take a look at some of the collections that brought me to life this week.

ETRO

There may be a reason the word "Etro" is in "Retro". Just saying. This collection featured an array of 90s inspired looks featuring edgy leather biker jackets topped over slinky black lace dresses. Another 90s trend that made an appearance? The sheer floral dress at the floor-length or cut right at the ankle. There were prints galore aside from the traditional floral, including an oversized plaid coat, some heavy striped sweaters, and brocade. Essentially, if you aren't into prints, this collection probably isn't for you. Veronica Etro's ability to combine the heavy with the light when it comes to her fabrics is a skill on its own that requires a rule breaker attitude mixed with some artistic inclinations (or maybe they're one in the same). A few notable accessories? Some knitted berets and long scarves that dragged onto the ground like an afterthought that worked out way too well.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 34

via vogue.com

VERSACE

Something felt different this year at Versace. Usually it feels a little too sexy for me with slits to the upper thigh and deep Vs that scream wardrobe malfunction. While the overall sex appeal of the Versace brand was still present, something about this collection it felt more real. Allow me to explain. From the moment Gigi Hadid walked down the runway in an oversized navy coat and NOT a bodycon dress, I knew something was up at Versace (despite her endless legs). The first few looks remained in the navy and black tones with cinched waists and highly conservative cuts. The collection then took a strange turn with a much more athleisure approach. Models strutted down the catwalk in striped crop tops, gloves that looked like knee-high soccer socks, and fitted dresses with very obvious sportswear influences in baby blues and corals. Donatella then took us into a world filled with bright colours such as yellow and red while keeping a conservative approach with her shapes and hemlines. At the very end, the designer brought back a few microminis to keep us on our toes and remind us that she is the queen of sexy. It was just enough for it to still feel like Versace, but with a slightly fresher view.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 17

via vogue.com

GIAMBA

It wouldn't be a review of Milan without a look at Giambattista Valli's Giamba collection (a recurring one on my blog). My obsession with this collection raises concerns and tugs at my heart strings simultaneously. It is filled with youthful touches like frills and flared hems, but with rebellious/Lolita undertones. It's about the good girl gone bad who consciously wears black underwear underneath her frilly white lace and black platform boots with a polka-dotted dress. Let's not get things twisted here. This was definitely NOT a collection made for little girls, though some might be drawn to it. It's for women who yearn for the 80s, when sensuality and punk rock were one in the same and romance was infused with darkness. I can imagine this girl hopping on a motorcycle with her rockstar boyfriend in a frilly dress of course. The designer combined high hemlines with higher necklines and longer skirts with deep Vs to keep every look feeling sexy, but slightly angelic. This girl is giving everyone a wink as she unties her bow to reveal a black choker and a heart-shaped tattoo.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 9

via vogue.com

EMPORIO ARMANI

Speaking of the 80s, we must address Armani's Emporio Armani collection filled with pops of colour and geometric shapes. While Armani may be known for more sophisticated cuts suitable for your average business woman, this year he had a little fun playing with colours, cuts, and prints. Some of the colours spotted at the show included candy cane pink and kelly green, with splashes of yellow and blue on a variety of printed dresses and flirty mini skirts. It felt like a modern art gallery, while still paying tribute to the 80s nostalgia that dominated the runways with high-waisted wide-leg pants (RIP skinny jean) and classic blazers in a variety of lengths. It was fun, with a hint of sophistication, a combination only Armani could pull off. 

FAVOURITE LOOK: 36

via vogue.com

 PHILOSOPHY DI LORENZO SERAFINI

Sarafini's latest collection was a cross between the 80s and the early 1800s with frilly necklines and many high-waisted pants. Nothing catches my eye quite like a high-waisted pant and some very pretty bows to tie it all together. If I could, I'd take you through every look in this collection because each one made my heart skip a few beats (in the romantic and cliche way as it should). While this collection featured many youthful ensembles (much like Giamba), it possessed even more feminine qualities like black lace overlays and layers of dramatic frills fit for a judge from the early 20th century, but also, a lady. The designer entered the realm of colour by choosing unlikely combos like baby blue and red in a mix of black and white boudoir-inspired outfits. It was edgy, romantic, and youthful without slipping into kinky territory. For the girl who's constantly being called cute and dreams of looking sexy, this collection is calling your name.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 36

via vogue.com

Which collection did you love at Milan this year?

Ponder it,

Bella

London, London, London: It's Review Time Again

I absolutely love London. You know why? When it comes to fashion, it doesn't follow any rigid rules, but rather, contradicts them, with unusual colour combinations and a lot of rock n' roll glamour. While New York reintroduced the bomber jacket, London reinvented the puffer with shearling collars at shows like Burberry and Topshop Unique. While New York was more about classic femininity with midi length skirts in sheer romantic fabrics, London was all about the mini skirt at shows like Felder Felder and J.W Anderson, two labels who gave the look their own unique twist. While New York designers offered many conservative work-appropriate looks, London was more about embracing the colder weather with head scarves at Mary Katrantzou and plastic rain protectors at Christopher Kane which were emblematic of the rainy city the Brits call home. Some of my favourite shows combined that rock n' roll sex appeal that is quintessentially London with an abundance of fluff that was very Kate Moss. Needless to say, I was smitten.

Are you ready to review?

DAKS

Let's begin our discussion with Daks. While watching this show, three words came to mind instantly: dark, sexy, and mysterious. The collection consisted primarily of head-to-toe black looks, but it was anything but plain. A variety of textures were introduced such as the age-old favourite fringe, sheer panelling (for the ladylike amongst us), lace (for a sexy boudoir-inspired look), and velour (for a hint of melodrama). All of this proved that black is for everyone, no matter your personal taste. Though the first look was a long flowy dress, the masculine-inspired pantsuits that followed made this show ooze of sophistication and attitude. Also, my new favourite accessory made an appearance on a variety of looks: the black fedora. Call it goth meets glamour or Sherlock Holmes meets Hercule Poirot, this collection was infused with mystery and left me wanting more. Some of the best looks included a tuxedo jacket I only hope someone will be gutsy enough to wear to the Oscars, a black feathered skirt that took the 1920s flapper to a whole other level, and a ruffled dress with a bow that strongly appealed to my girly side. Needless to say, I'll need an order of every piece from this collection. Please and thank you.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 3

via vogue.com

JULIEN MACDONALD

Are you ready for a glamorous night on the town with a glass of champagne and a man on your arm? Well first, you need to take a look at Julien Macdonald's latest Fall 2016 collection. The designer took everything that is sexy and put it together in a variety of looks only suitable for the model of duty or a woman with infinite confidence (proven by none other than British model, Jourdan Dunn, who owned look 55 at the Brit Awards). Of course, it wouldn't be a party girl collection without a lot of glitter and sparkle, some high slits, and deep Vs that even a true disco diva would have to be quite daring to wear. The primary colour tones were silver and black, but what really struck my attention was the pop of red that almost seemed out of place, yet so consistent with the theme of the collection. If you're daring enough to try one of these looks at your next big event, I urge you to go for a long slinky number with major cutouts. As for me, I'm smitten with the little white dress that closed the show fit for a ballerina and sex kitten all at once.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 55

via vogue.com

DAVID KOMA

Every year, I like to talk about David Koma because he seems to know exactly what women yearn to wear, or maybe just me. This season, the collection was all about structured lines and muted tones like pale grey and white.The designer maintained his signature architectural theme on many of his looks with asymmetrical hems and strategic cutouts at the shoulders. The collection veered into darker territory halfway through the show with head-to-toe black looks combined with metallic accents and the ever-so-edgy cobalt blue. Some specks of red were introduced on a few sportswear inspired dresses and mixed print dresses. By the end, the handiwork was blatant and sexy with bits of metal scattered in unusual places to create works of art you would have only expect to see at the Tate.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 19

via vogue.com

MULBERRY

Mulberry hasn't presented a show at London Fashion Week in a number of years and now that it has finally made a comeback, I could not be more pleased. Coats were definitely the style statement at the show in fall-ready colours like maroon and navy blue with a few striking capes dispersed in between. One of the most remarkable colour combinations in the collection was khaki and maroon, two colours I would have never imagined at the same dinner table, but a combo I can't stop thinking about. The collection eased quickly into edgy streetwear with blouses and dress pants that had just the right amount of attitude and leather accents that still managed to radiate femininity. Bold furs and strong colours like red and yellow gave every look a unique touch while capturing everything that I love about London. When it comes to fashion, this city is fearless and that's exactly what Johnny Coca demonstrated at Mulberry this week with just enough sex appeal to make it rock n' roll. Did I mention, I'm dying for a pair of those platform shoes?

FAVOURITE LOOK: 9

via vogue.com

TOPSHOP UNIQUE

Of course, I always save the best for last. As usual, my obsession with Topshop and Topshop Unique remains untouchable because nothing says London more than this cult favourite brand. Though I could not get enough of the shearling coats, printed mini dresses, and leather accents, my favourite part about this show would have to be the magenta lipstick. Nothing says "I'm a woman with an attitude" like a bold lip colour that adds some extra personality to your outfit. This 80s-inspired beauty look did just that. On another note, half the collection consisted of oversized pieces, such as sweaters, pants, and bulky coats full of fluff that I just wanted to throw on to keep warm in the winter while also looking drop-dead-glamourous. This collection was exactly what London is about: breaking every rule in favour of bigger and bolder prints, a bit of transparency, and a few ill-fitted pieces that somehow still manage to look sexy.

FAVOURITE LOOK: 5

via vogue.com

While I shed a tear for London and wish I were there, it's now time to move on to Milan. But first, let me know which shows were your favourite in this rock n' roll city.

Ponder it,

Bella

What Happens To White Tights After Puberty?

When we're little girls, it's customary for our mothers to dress us up in pretty dresses and a wide range of tights, primarily in white or some flashy colour like hot pink or blue. Black is an anomalous colour for children's stockings because it is perceived as being too grim a choice for a little girl. When a girl reaches a certain age (let's say puberty), those adorable playful tights are replaced with more serious "grown-up" tights. In other words, we become limited to nude or black. White tights cease to be appropriate. At most, we might experiment with navy or dark brown, but white is something we only take out on Halloween to complete our sexy maid costume.

via mytights.com

Now let me ask you this. How is it possible that white tights can be associated with little girls and slutty nurses? When did white become the forbidden fruit? Is it possible that is it a symbol of innocence and in the case of the Halloween costume, innocence lost? Does it represent women "attempting" to look like little girls, an act that is frowned upon in our society. And the better question is WHY?

As someone who loves anything cute and girly including but not limited to bows, ribbons, flared skirts, frills, and lace, I can't help but question society's aversion to white tights.

Apparently, the ladies on the streets are the only ones concerned with how they appear in white stockings. At Giamba, the models walked the runway in sheer polka dotted white tights with their bold platform sandals. The trend has also been done in the past at Chanel and Miu Miu. But why doesn't it translate onto the streets?

Could it be time we take a risk and revive this trend. I'm game. Are you?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

That Time Alexander Wang #BroketheInternet

via style.com

Did that image make you uncomfortable?

via hypebeast.com

How about that one?

Thought so.

After scoping the internet for comments on Alexander Wang's recent denim campaign, I was surprised to see a slew of praise that made me question my propensity to say "huh?"

The best part is that the above photos aren't the worst of the bunch, but I chose to omit the image of Anna Ewers touching herself out of respect for her and others who feel as uncomfortable with this as I do. Yes, Wang #BroketheInternet, but at what cost? I understand that denim is a saturated market, but does this really make people want to buy the pants or the woman? Am I the only one slightly turned off by this blatant display of female sexuality? I feel like I'm intruding on Anna Ewers' private time.

Obviously, Alexander Wang got the well spread memo that "sex sells", but haven't we established that good jeans sell too? And didn't he just come out with an H&M collaboration that already increased his popularity ranking? Come on, Wang.

Now, I would not consider myself a prude. I believe in fashion's campaign to #freethenipple, but there are so many other ways of displaying nudity that are not quite as cringe inducing. A woman's body is beautiful, but oiled up to this extent, it looses its tastefulness and becomes a clear cry for attention.

Remember when you saw that girl in your class on Facebook posing with pouty lips in front of the camera screaming for someone to notice her cleavage? You thought, "wow, that girl is insecure and needs attention real bad" or maybe you thought, "she's hot". But then again, she wasn't trying to sell jeans, was she? She was just a girl like any other imitating something she may have seen in a magazine.

Now, there's a question I'd like to ask. Can you envision this image in your latest Vogue? Can you imagine your 12 year old sister catching a glimpse? Is that what you would call "pushing the boundaries" or does it take things to a level where people can't leave it on their coffee table? I am all for boundary pushing, but to what degree?

On the bright side, the image stayed in my mind for over a week and therefore, it must have done its job. Does it make me scream for those jeans? Probably not. But I am talking about it, so I suppose Wang got exactly the reaction he wanted. Now we all know that Alexander Wang makes jeans.

Alexander Wang for H&M? So last month.
Kim Kardashian's oiled body on Paper Mag? Psh, Kim who?

Make way for Alexander Wang and let me know what you think of this image. Good career move or pornographic? Or both?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella

My Burgeoning Relationship With Turtleneck Sweaters

via www.fashion-agony.com

Society tells you to be sexy. Or at least the celebrities at every corner do. All you have to do is take a look at Kim K.'s Paper Magazine nude photo and you'll see that Hollywood is all about exposing your skin. Not everyone is Kim Kardashian and I think it's safe to say that the general population won't be posing for a magazine in their birthday suit anytime soon, but sexy is everywhere.

There begs the question: what is sexy?

This a is term that cannot be defined because it is obviously subjective.

Is sexy a deep v dress that exposes your crevice?

Is sexy a mini skirt that makes your legs look a mile long?

Is sexy a pair of skintight leather pants?

Is sexy a pair of bootie shorts a la Daisy Duke?

Some would say yes to all of these traits, while others would raise a brow at the thought.

Then, there's the anti-sexy. What is the anti-sexy?

The anti-sexy is everything that goes against traditional notions of sexuality. This is a concept that counters the male perception of a sexy woman.

What do you consider anti-sexy?

Baggy leather pants? An oversized sweater? Boyfriend jeans? 

Or perhaps, a turtleneck?

via www.oqusar.com

Now, I finally get to the point. Throughout my life, the turtleneck has never appealed to me regardless of my desire to subvert traditional notions of sexuality. After all, just look at the name. Who wants to have a legitimate turtle's neck? Not so sexy. I also thought it would strangle me. I kid not. This was my main concern. However, I decided to take the leap and buy one the other day. We'll call it my risk of the day. Clearly, I'm the living on the edge type of girl...

After putting it over my head, I came to several conclusions. Here is what I decided:

1) It strangles me a little.

2) Not enough to stop wearing it.

3) Because I secretly love it.

4) It makes me think of Audrey Hepburn and the gamine look.

5) Which makes me feel sophisticated and chic.

6) I also think I look older in it. I think.

7) It looks good with EVERYTHING.

8) It's a great winter fix.

9) I need more of them.

10) In different colours.

So, there you have it. That was my first experience with the turtleneck sweater. What do you think of this look? Do you think there's something inherently sexy about wearing something boyish and "unsexy"? Or am I just crazy?

Ponder it,

XOXO,

Bella