The Magical World of Couture

Back in its early beginnings, fashion existed solely as couture. Every dress was intricately woven and sewn in a detailed manner for the aristocratic woman whose lifestyle consisted of parties and extravagance. Oh, how I long for that time. Today, casual dress is the norm and thus, we must settle for ready-to-wear and fast fashion. Couture has become a mere fantasy meant to be a runway spectacle. Fashionistas dream of swaying in these beautiful creations, while others ignore its value. I land in the first camp. Couture is an art form beyond a painting or sculpture. It is fabric in its best form. It's my obsession. Every day, I await that magical moment where the Couture shows will hit Style.com and my mind can wander off to Narnia, a hidden world in the depths of my closet that I can only dream about. Today, that moment happened.

The fantasy began with Atelier Versace, maintaining its timeless sex appeal with form hugging dresses and monochrome suits adorned in sparkle. From luscious furs to luxurious flowing fabrics and eye-teasing gowns, "I dream of Jeannie" came to mind. Let's not forget the dramatic touch of the head-piece that added a little mystery to this glamorous woman we all aspire to be. It was all so very Donatella.

Atelier Versace Spring 2014 Couture

And then, the magic of Schiaparelli came alive in a tribute to her beautiful collections by Creative Director Marco Zanini. With a little androgyny and some ambiguous gender dressing, he took us across the globe on his magic carpet by inspiring himself from cultural dress. And if you thought Versace's headpieces were wild, wait until you take a look at these. You know magic is being made when your hair becomes a centrepiece and your mind is transported to unlikely places. It was whimsical, fantastical, and theatrical simultaneously.

Schiaparelli Spring 2014 Couture

From theatre to classic romanticism, we all drifted into the world of Dior as gorgeous eyelet pieces in angelic white draped off the bodies of serene models. The resounding theme seemed to be the trickery of the eye as these designers played with gaps on these stunning dresses with illusory designs. Raf Simons consistently brings classic feminism to the table, but with modern flair and printed pleasures. His collections for Dior invite us to escape reality. Dior makes us want to fall in love.

Dior Spring 2014 Couture

Ladies, this is just the beginning. Couture is a way for us to survive the endless days preceding fashion month. It starts here. With a dream. A fantasy. A world outside of our own dull reality. Isn't it magical?

Have a lovely day,

Bella

P.S Check out the Spring 2014 Couture collections on Style.com!


17 Days Until NYFW

Why We're All Obsessed With Award Season

There's a mutual consensus amongst Canadians that January is the dreariest month of the year. Christmas spirit is drifting away, all of our money has been spent, temperatures are at arctic levels, and daylight is fleeting. The only salvation we can strive for resides in our fantasies and there is nothing that rings "fantasy" more than awards season.

As we began with the Golden Globes last Sunday, everyone awaited anxiously on Twitter (in the comfort of their homes) for the hour to commence. Countdowns began and snack preparations were made as we eagerly anticipated that glorious Red Carpet. It started with a bang as the first scandal of the year hit the social media spheres. The carpet was flooded by the sprinkler system. Alas, with the magic of Hollywood, the evening was salvaged and beautiful celebrities adorned in designer gowns materialized. Whispers of "That dress is fabulous. I'm obsessed" and "Who killed a banana and put it on her?" were exchanged between fashionistas, TV personalities, bloggers, and common folk alike. The excitement was palpable (as a taste of the Oscars stimulated our tongues). 

And then, last night, the SAG awards took place and once again, celebrities in beautiful dresses took us by storm. From Lupita N'Yongo in stunning turquoise Gucci to Amy Adams in a striking cobalt Antonio Berardi, the Screen Actors Guild Awards gave us all yet another reason to sigh, marvel, and judge. Isn't that what we all do best? 

The question is: why do we all love rating celebrity gowns so much? Why do we all spend hours watching these tedious award shows simply to discuss who's wearing who and whether it's worthy of our own personal best-dressed lists? Why are we all so intent on constructing the most convoluted metaphors to describe our least favourite gowns? Is it due to an obsession with playing celebrity stylist? Or, are we simply incurably bored? 

I, for one, am guilty of being addicted to ferociously checking every best-dressed list possible in order to concoct my own and read the judgments of others. There is something about rating celebrity gowns that makes us feel connected to our favourite celebrities (and gives me the tingles). Maybe we even proceed to imagine ourselves in one of these dresses strutting down the Red Carpet with a poised pout for all the world to judge. Don't deny it. There's nothing like a fantasy to get us through January, right?

Happy Sunday!

Bella 

P.S Don't miss Oscar Sunday, hosted by Ellen Degeneres on March 2nd!

18 Days Until NYFW

#IconCity: Trend It Like Beckham

For those of you who don't know, IconCity is a fantasy realm inside my mind in which all my fashion icons gather together to look fabulous. I invented it in order to keep tabs on celebrity and blogger styles that I unabashedly adore. This is a new segment of MyFashionStatements that I have chosen to explore to give readers a broader picture of the women (or men) who inspire my fashion choices. As I select some of my own favourite outfits, you are all invited to judge, debate, or concur on these memorable looks. And I can think of no better way to begin than with my number one, Victoria Beckham.

Though previously known as Posh spice, she blossomed into a designer with two lines, Victoria Beckham and Victoria, Victoria Beckham, that continue to adorn the runways at New York Fashion Week. Her signature haircut created a domino effect as it rippled down to celebrities such as Rihanna and Jessica Stroup. Always chic and infinitely sophisticated, Victoria Beckham can do no wrong and is one of the most emulated fashionistas in the industry. Have you ever seen this woman badly dressed? No, you haven't, because it has never occurred. Here are some of her best looks:

LOOK 1

via www.dailymail.co.uk

If you search the word classy in your pocket dictionary, you'll find Victoria's name written beneath it. She effortlessly masters black and white chic with a gorgeous studded handbag and manages to make it look incredibly put together as she roams the busy streets of New York. Yes, this woman has four children and still, ALWAYS looks put together. A marvel I shall never understand.

LOOK 2

via vousdisiez.onsugar.com

Only a true fashion queen can pull off a fur this grandiose. Of course, the glamorous look would be incomplete without those stunning Louboutin booties. 

LOOK 3

via peoplestylewatch.com

Victoria dresses in her own designs as any designer of her caliber would. This bold tangerine suit is one of the most memorable pieces of her Spring/Summer 2013 collection. It's classy with a sassy punch of colour. Exactly how I like it.

LOOK 4

via www.snobessentials.com

As per Victoria style, the designer is decked entirely in black, giving her that edge none of us can get enough of. This Balenciaga belted dress is chic without trying too hard and those Lanvin wedges are TO DIE FOR. Anyone else fantasizing about those landing at their doorstep? I know I am.

LOOK 5

via celebrityfashionblog.tumblr.com

And finally, let's all reminisce about that gorgeous haircut from 2011 that we've all been dying to imitate, but haven't had the balls to do so. This look is the image of an expensive diva who won't let you mess with her. However, contrary to popular belief, Victoria is actually a sweetheart. Saying "Everyone thinks I'm a cow - I get it, because I think the same when I see the pictures", she warms our hearts by recognizing her own signature pouty face as falsely indicative of an unpleasant personality. If you've ever seen an interview of Victoria Beckham, you'll know that she is probably the furthest thing from a cow (in all senses).

I'd like to end this piece with a quote that defines my own personal life and style:

"I can't concentrate in flats" - Victoria Beckham. Oh Victoria, I think it's time we meet.

Hasta la vista,

Bella

20 Days Until NYFW

My Love Affair With High-Waisted Pants

I suppose my story begins in elementary school when I had my premature growth spurt. I was 11, taller than most of the girls in my class, and seated at the front in the class picture (which meant everything back then). Suddenly, like lightening, high school commenced and something struck me (no pun intended) as odd. Everyone was growing but me. My doctor announced that it was the end of the road. I would never be deemed tall again. Alas, I realized that my legs would forever be stunted, reaching a staggering 5''. It was the end of the world as I knew it.

via m-street-style.blogspot.com.es

And then something crazy happened. I discovered the beloved high heel. I finally found my solution to looking chic and age appropriate on a night out. The only question that remained was: how could I possible create an illusion of height on the regular days? Would I ever be able to wear sneakers again without being mistaken for a 12 year old? Could I afford to dress casual? Would I have to give up flats forever?

And that's when I discovered high-waisted jeans and frankly, when my life changed forever. High-waisted jeans created that illusion of long legs by shortening the torso. They welcomed the crop top with open arms and invited my blouses to tuck themselves in. They are a godsend gift-wrapped for petite girls with height insecurities that come in all shapes and sizes. Whether in the form of a harem pant or denim, they will rock your fashionable world.

As you can see, I'm a major advocate for the high-waisted pant. When guys ask me: "why are your pants always worn so high?", I lift them even higher and proudly expose my long legs. There is nothing more satisfying.

Happy Thursday!

Bella




21 Days Until NYFW

From Menswear To My Closet: It's An Art, Really

Hey GUYS (folks, individuals, fashion friends, average Joes, awkward turtles),

It's Wednesday (almost Thursday) and the week is coming to a dear and long-awaited close. Before that happens, let's talk about my current style mood (because it's super relevant to your every day lives). I'd like to begin by saying that growing up, I was that little girl with a permanent smile etched on her face until her cheeks hurt as she stared at her reflection in the mirror wearing a bright orange. I'm the girliest girl since Barbie herself, but I've stumbled across a phase I never thought I'd experience. I landed in the men's section. Literally.

The other day, I was shuffling through the racks at Simons. Suddenly, I was caught off guard by a feeling of desire pulling me towards the men's section. No, it was not an actual man that attracted my attention, but an oversized Ineedtohaveyou sweater. Then, I envisioned it with leather leggings and heals. It painted a very intriguing picture.

As designers embrace androgyny as their favourite child, I've adapted it to my expired bubblegum personality (interpret that phrase as you wish). My story goes like this...

Once upon a time, I was walking the halls at school, when I noticed something about young adult males. Whether athletic or hipster (or anything in between), baseball caps are (for lack of a better word) the shit. And then I noticed something else. Women NEVER seem to wear them. Perhaps the rare tomboy will be spotted with a baseball cap on her head to match her sports jersey of a team I've never heard of (but even then, it's an infrequent occurrence).  Obviously, this had to change. I had to step out of the norm and the result was the following. I purchased a baseball cap in faux cuir of course (that's leather in French, the language of fashion) and it became my uniform for 2 solid weeks. When I bought that hat, I received compliments from the most unlikely sources and that's when I knew it was a success. If I could've, I would've slept with it (like a clingy cuddly hooker). Though I elude the realms of masculinity, I love to transgress in my own unique way. The faux leather makes this hat infinitely chic and untraditionally masculine, just how I like it.

From that point forward, I realized that I had discovered a new me. An edgier me. And new definition for androgynous. Here are a few ideas to explore if you want to master this look:

1) Pencil skirts with sneakers (undeniably cool):

via sincerelyjules.com

2) Graphic Tee with full midi skirt:

via studsandsapphires.com

3) A skirt/dress with a bow tie:

via lookbook.nu

4) An oversized sweater with wedge sneakers:

via lookbook.nu

5) Baggy pants with stilettos:

via feedyoufashion.com

The list can go on endlessly if you know how to innovate, but the one thing to take from this is that no matter how masculine the item, if you combine it with something feminine (i.e a pair of high heels), you'll be the queen of androgyny. That's how it's done.

Bella




22 Days Until NYFW

The Leather Pant-Shaped Void In My Heart

Several weekends ago, after rummaging through my closet for several hours (true story), I found myself in a common predicament. I had no clue what to wear (stereotype of the century). Something was missing. There was a gap between my basic black Levi skinnys and Topshop pencil skirt that needed to be filled. I could feel it in my heart of hearts. An empty hanger demanded a piece of clothing. After giving it some thought, the realization came to me, the final puzzle piece: a pair of leather of pants.

via www.yworld.co.za

Whether with leather accents on the knees and legs or full-on decked-out leather, I've developed a need beyond explanation. Every woman needs that pair of pants that radiates cool vibes without any effort required. Every woman needs that staple that makes a plain Jane white tee look beyond fabulous. An item that can simultaneously provide an illusion of looking expensive combined with a 5$ tank top. Does such an item exist? Indeed it does. It comes in the form of skin-tight shiny leather.

BEWARE: Though leather pants have the ability to enhance an outfit by umpteenth per cent, they can also suggest "white trash" if they look fake. Now, I am NOT suggesting to purchase real leather pants by any means if they are not within your budget. However, the key to a solid pair of leather pants is finding the fake kind that looks real to the average viewer and all your wardrobe problems will be solved (more or less). It is the missing staple. The cream on your birthday cake. The flame to your candle. The cheese to your mouse.

What I'm trying to say is: Get yourself a pair of leather pants and STAT. I'm already on my mission.

Bella

P.S While we're on the subject, I'd like to leave you with a question: are you prepared to try the baggy leather pants trend? Has it hit your radar or have you dismissed the trend with the thought that it'll certainly go out of style?




23 Days Until NYFW

My More-Or-Less Conventional Golden Globes 2014 Best-Dressed List

So...The Golden Globes were on last night and a lot happened on the Red Carpet (including some flooding), but what I'm hear to talk to you about is a list of women who rocked their garb like it was nobody's business. Though I'd love to dwell on the questionable dress choices, including Paula Patton's "Side Vagina" and Drew Barrymore's "Garden of Eden" (there seems to be a common theme there), I'd much rather pay attribute to those who excelled in their delicious dress choices. And so it begins...

Best-dressed list number 1093578475884590345978497584758:

NUMBER 10:

KAYLEY CUOCO in Rani Zakhem

via www.popsugar.com

At every award show, Kaley gets a spot on my list because of her overall skills at looking like a hot-ass princess. This dress may resemble wallpaper, but it certainly was NOT boring.

NUMBER 9:

EMMA WATSON in DIOR

via www.dailymail.co.uk

Every year, someone shows up wearing a business in the front, party in the back situation at one of these events. This year, it was Emma Watson. I'm thinking the killer red dress was meant for the glamorous event, while the pants were reserved for the after-party. Just a thought.

NUMBER 8:

CATE BLANCHETT in ARMANI

via metro.co.uk

Ladies and gents, it finally happened. Cate Blanchett snagged herself a spot on a best-dressed list written by me. Though this is as rare as the sound of Karl Lagerfeld's laughter, it has finally happened and she looks freaking fabulous. P.S I have a soft spot for black lace, so clearly, she knew what she was doing.

NUMBER 7:

ALLISON WILLIAMS in ALEXANDER McQUEEN

via www.hollywoodreporter.com

I think we can all agree that Allison Williams is fed up of being called "boring", and so, she opted for McQueen. It's the natural direction to take and frankly, I think she did it pretty well, while keeping her personal style image intact, wouldn't you agree?

NUMBER 6:

AMY ADAMS in VALENTINO

via www.hollywoodreporter.com

Amy Adams NEEDED a wow moment after being nominated for American Hustle (and winning). This red dress definitely had that affect and I have to say, that plunging neckline was slightly more tastefully done than in the film. Overall, a wild success.

NUMBER 5:

LUPITA NYONG'O in RALPH LAUREN

via www.hollywoodreporter.com

Everyone was obsessing over this dress on Twitter like the cape was real and she could actually fly. Generally, I think we were all mostly blown away by that breathtaking colour.

NUMBER 4:

MARIA MENOUNOS in MAX AZRIA

via www.hollywoodreporter.com

First of all, Maria Menounos could wear a paper bag on the Red Carpet and she'd look beyond amazing. However, this dress is worth noting because it was particularly striking and one of the first appearances on the Carpet. Bold colours were clearly a winner last night.

NUMBER 3:

CAITLIN FITZGERALD in VIKTOR AND ROLF

via www.hollywoodreporter.com

I don't even care who this woman is, but her dress was clearly underrated. The cut, the colour, the basicallyeverythingaboutit was so beautiful, it's probably what I would've worn at this event. LOVE IT.

NUMBER 2 (getting close, guys):

LOUISE ROE in MONIQUE LHUILLIER

via www.hollywoodreporter.com

This is so freaking pretty I want to cry (because I don't own it). It's feminine and bold and overall, perfect. It's a dress straight from my own dreams.

AND THE NUMBER 1 BEST-DRESSED CELEBRITY (IN MY BOOK) IS:

KATE BECKINSALE in ZUHAIR MURAD

via www.celebitchy.com

First of all, Kate Beckinsale is ALREADY (no Red Carpet attached) one of my personal style icons. This sparkling number, however, blew my socks off (I know that's not the expression, but I needed two expressions to describe this wonder). Nobody shone (shined?) brighter than Kate Beckinsale. No one.

Allow me to give a shout out to best-preggo of the night: Olivia Wilde in Gucci as my final parting words.

And with that, farewell!

Bella

24 Days Until NYFW