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Anyone who knows me is well aware of my love of great lingerie. Nothing can make you feel better about whatever you may be wearing than knowing how great you look underneath. I have always appreciated finer details, fabrics and quality when it comes to pieces and I am always on the look out for new brands that live up to my expectations.
A few weeks ago Adoreme.com contacted me and asked me to pick out a set to review and I must say I was definitely pleased. No I will not tell you what I picked out, that is for my knowledge only ;) but I will tell you that I fell in love.
For those of you who are not familiar with them, AdoreMe is a website that follows the format of online retailers like ShoeMint and StyleMint where through filling out a series of survey questions you are presented with a showroom of pieces picked out by their stylists and personalized to your liking. The consultation is free and you can also view your showroom for free. They are constantly updating with new pieces even more beautiful then the last. The best part is a full set is only $39.95 and shipping is absolutely free. Each month you get a new collection personalized for you and should you not see anything you like you can simply pass that month. My package arrived within a week and was sent in a cute white box and wrapped in tissue. The set itself fit true to size and was amazing quality that rivals many of my favourite brands.
I strongly encourage you all to check it out because it is a great way to try some items you might never have looked at before and ensure that you are receiving great quality pieces. I for one cannot wait to see my showroom next month and what glamorous pieces I may be able to purchase.
For more information on how it works click here and for more information on their lingerie click here.
- Oscar de le Renta
- 2013 New York Bridal Week
Anyone who even reads my blog semi regularly knows very well my vast love of Oscar de la Renta. Every time I sit down to review one of his brilliant collections my review turns into a gushy entry about my school girl level crush on his garments. Well if you expected anything different this time around you are sadly mistaken because nothing makes me feel weaker in the knees than his artistically crafted gowns.
After looking through the collection the first thing that popped into my mind was the bridal tradition of ”something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue” and this unmistakable pattern that could be found throughout its entirety. The gowns had features reminiscent of decades past with Oscar’s signature vintage ornate lace and crochet detailing alongside dropped waists, long sheer gloves and vintage style jewels. “Something blue” was the token pop of colour for this collection in organza, silk, tulle such as the blue satin faced organza train on the white floral guipure gown. Being a lover of the popular high slit I fell in love with the ivory silk chiffon drape gown that was accented by only the branch of fresh white flowers held by the model. Another show stopper had to be the fun little feathered shrug that was paired with the voluminous organza gown with a sweetheart neckline and sheer long gloves.
Just another eye popping collection full of stand out pieces that make me want to turn into that slightly crazed girl with a bridal scrap book at 22 years old.
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Photos by Dan Lecca via OscarPRGirl on Pinterest
- Pink Tartan
- Toronto Fashion Week Fall 2012
When Toronto Fashion Week rolls around there are always a few designers collections whose shows I look forward to attending above all others. Some of these including Chloé comme Parris, David Dixon, Lucian Matis and as noted above, Pink Tartan by Kim Newport-Mimran.
As expect, Kim has delivered yet another collection fit for the Canadian climate full of lush, over the top furs, this time in shades of forest green, ruby, blush and black. Long, loose silk trousers and cigarette pants were paired with trenches, flared pea coats and tailored blazers and featured brilliant pops of vibrant reds. The dresses featured the ever popular on trend peplum while most skirts graced knee length and remained flared and/or loose while giving peeks of skin through the sheer fabrics. The trench coats were stunning and featured leather and fur accents, my favourite being the cream trench with black colour blocked along the bottom of the sleeves and the body with fur sitting atop the shoulders. Something things that I didn’t expect to like so much were the emerald monotone look made up of the sleeveless peplum top paired with matching flared, fitted trousers and the figure hugging long red dress. However, I was not a fan of the furry booties that finished off many of the looks but they were easily over looked as the collection as a whole was so lovely.
Overall the collection was a perfect combination of wardrobe essential staples and statement pieces for the every day woman who has flare (which is fitting as it was styled by FLARE’s Fashion Director Liz Cabral.)
- Chloé comme Parris
- Toronto Fashion Week Fall 2012
Every season I always look forward to design duo Chloé and Parris Gordon designs for their brand Chloé come Parris. Everything always feels airy and light but with a hard edge which always makes for an interesting collection.
This season saw a dark colour palette of black and charcoal with pops of camel and dreamy light watercolour prints. Most skirts were mid length and pleated and were styled with contrasting heavy leather and suede masculine motorcycle jackets. Oversized knits were heavily featured and made an excellent fall basic. Their trademark use of hardware and studded embelishments were in abundance and trickled down shoulders and sleeves. Evening dresses were completed with either the previously noted motorcycle jacket or a simple trench. Two things that caught my eye were the caged cuffs that were utterly covetable and the cigarette pants had fun slits up the front which will be perfect for showing off statement shoes. Overall Chloé come Parris was a collection full of muted basics that I am sure will have great commercial success.
- Lucian Matis
- Toronto Fashion Week Fall 2012
The buzz and atmosphere at Lucian Matis this season was palpable. Guests braved the rainy Toronto night and filtered into the classically elegant Fairmont Royal York (I encourage you guys to stay there if you ever visit Toronto). Judging by the overwhelming crowds of fashion savvy men and women sipping champagne outside of the ballroom for the cocktail hour preceding the show, this was definitely the highlight for many individuals week. The grand ballrooms really do make such a lovely venue and I prefer them to the tents so hopefully designers begin to take more advantage of them in the future.
The collection overall honoured nature and beauty while maintaining artistic symmetry. Matis went into detail by saying:
“The lines in nature can travel, swirl and conjoin. These natural patterns are nature’s expression and purpose. My designs have adapted and evolved through colours and shapes; the grace in movement which this planet and nature must play out from minute to minute, birth to death, and most importantly, the beauty in attraction.”
Anchored by a black base, as the show progressed the garments boasted intricate lace and crochet detailing and came into its own with the burst of dark hued feathers that were featured heavily towards the end of the collection. The use of lush feathers to comprise full skirts, coats and voluminous shoulders were truly decadent and alluring. Each piece was rich in texture, expertly crafted and exuded sex appeal as expect from the designer since his first showing at Toronto Fashion Week back in 2007.
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Image Credit: Jenna Marie Wakani
- Lanvin
- Paris Fashion Week Fall 2012
“I always say, ‘If you can’t eat it, it’s not food, and if you can’t wear it, it’s not fashion, it is something else.’”
- Alber Elbaz
One of the top events of the season would undoubtedly be Alber Elbaz’s 10th Anniversary collection for Lanvin which pays homage to glamour and all that entails. With an a-list front row and an all-star line up of catwalk divas not to mention outstanding garments it was definitely a sight to behold.
The collection overall was the definition of Lanvin, it was sexy, vibrant, edgy, and full of life. The show opened with Alber’s signature sensual flattering dresses making an appearance in solid bright hues some boasting the ever trendy peplum or in the form of a shift and finished off with simple black pumps and booties. As the presentation progressed jewel tones emerged as well as metallics anchored by heavy black fabrics and embellished with lace appliqués, layered ruffles and jewels. Lush furs were draped effortlessly over the models while waists were cinched with jaguar headed belts. Most looks were topped off with an over the top, truly remarkable bejeweled necklace or belt. Each look felt sculptural, many with exaggerated sleeves, high collars and voluminous in size.
The collection was really a testament to his craft, perfect execution and charm that he has become known for. He is truly a man worth celebrating and here is to another 10 years at Lanvin (I hope!).
- Chanel
- Paris Fashion Week Fall 2012
Aside from the covetable clothes, Chanel has always been known for its over the top elaborate sets. Over the past year we have seen Karl Lagerfeld transform various venues and transport us into another world whether it be a trip under the sea, a flight care of Chanel airways or a fancy dinner at an Indian palace. As expected the fall 2012 season was no exception as guests were treated to a dramatic set full of over oversized ombre crystals sporadically yet systematically cracking through the runway floor.
The set’s theme was echoed throughout the collection on everything from the shoes, belts, purses and coats to even the models icy eyebrows which were artistically crafted by key makeup artist, Peter Phillips. The hand crafted brows that retail for 400 euros per pair were created using crystals and minerals and were the distinguishing feature on the models faces which were left nude and looked amazingly fresh and clean.
As seen in many collections this season, once again oversized coats were prevalent. Draped dresses were layered over cigarette pants which accompanied almost every look. Some other stand out pieces were patterned knits typical of fall/winter and the glamorous looks that closed the show which were heavily embellished with feathers and other fun glittery accents. Looks were completed by heavy metal stone and mineral adorned necklaces and collars as well as Lucite heeled shoes and elbow length gloves. Overall another stunning collection by Karl Lagerfeld.
Oh by the way, how adorable was little Hudson Kroenig walking the runway with a little Chanel quilted bag?
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- Chloé
- Paris Fashion Week Fall 2012
Clare Waight Keller has settled into her sophomore season at Chloé and brings us soft autumn layers, relax silhouettes and lush fabrics.
Colours were mainly pastels paired with subdued neutrals and bursts of ruby reds. Hair was loose and slightly tousled with makeup left natural complimenting the clothes perfectly. Sweaters made of lace, knit and wool were paired with structured shirts and slim pants with tapered ankles. Looks were styled to perfection yet it was evident that the collection was made of up minimal separates that I am sure will do amazingly well in editorials to come.
Overall, Keller has managed to find the perfect balance between casual and dressy effortless looks.
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- Miu Miu
- Paris Fashion Week Fall 2012
At first glance one can clearly identify the inspiration behind Miuccia Prada’s latest collection for Miu Miu: Menswear and the 70s.
Taking a cue from its big sister Prada, at Miu Miu it was all about the pantsuit, this time in bold, retro prints in jewel tones, raspberry, tan, royal blue and various brown hues. The garish prints on the suits purposefully clashed with the dress shirts that I am sure if you took away from the looks would be quite nice. This also goes for the bags, accessories and shoes that I am sure will all be quite popular.
Thus far during fashion month we have seen many menswear inspired items and I have been waiting for a collection featuring this inspiration to “wow” me and sadly this one did not. However, due to the immense dedication that fans have for Miu Miu I am sure that this will end up being someones cup of tea.
In my opinion, the makeup was quite hideous and overall the collection was very disappointing and boring. I am always a lover of fun prints and clashing but many of the garments went beyond the acceptable amount of clashing. For me the saving grace were the linked shift dresses that were styled over collared shirts that closed the show.
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So what did you think of this season?
- Valentino
- Paris Fashion Week Fall 2012
This season Pierpaolo Piccioli and Maria Grazia Chiuri’s designs for Valentino took on an edgier, tougher vibe juxtaposed the traditional ladylike romanticism that has become synonymous with the fashion house.
The show opened with leather coating skirts and dramatic capes paired with white collared sheer shirts. Sheer and mesh fabrics could also be found throughout on pants and dresses with strategically placed vintage flowers and lace lending the perfect amount of coverage. As the show progressed many red carpet worthy dresses emerged in beige, black, winter white and classic Valentino red, many featuring the most beautifully delicate embroidery. Silhouettes were structured yet fell away from the body, trousers were tailored and blouses were very much refined. Overall the collection was a lovely play on delicate felinity vs. masculinity.
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- Stella McCartney
- Paris Fashion Week Fall 2012
After a steller showing of her evening wear collection at London Fashion Week Stella McCartney now moves onto Paris Fashion Week with her refined sporty chic ready to wear collection.
The show opened and closed with Stella’s muse, Natalia Vodianova, who donned a high collar in both looks and was echoed throughout the collection. Jacquard silk patterns, tweeds, and colour blocking came in crisp white, taupe, charcoal, black and royal blue. Dresses were short with adorable tennis like flared skirts and will most definitely become a hit over the next few months in magazine editorials. Shoulders were padded and hips were exaggerated while jackets remained strictly tailored. Random pops of magenta were found coating relaxed, pajama style trousers.
The athletic vibe that was prevalent is only to be expected as Stella is to be designing the British uniforms for the upcoming Olympics. Anyone excited to see what she has in store?
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- Alexander McQueen
- Paris Fashion Week Fall 2012
As she settles into her fourth season at the helm of Alexander McQueen, creative director Sarah Burton continues to stay true McQueens vision while growing and pushing forward.
Voluminous collars and shoulders created a mushroom shape that dominated the collection alongside ruffles, graphic jacquards, feminine skirts and an abundance of tulle and organza. The colour palette consisted of ivory, powder pink, scarlet, fuchsia and black with silver coating the barbell shaped belts. Models hair was slicked back and in true McQueen style faces were once again shaded, this time with futuristic black visors. Silhouettes were either exaggerated and dramatic or ultra feminine and daring. Towards the end looks began to essentially explode into masses of beautiful bright scarlet and fuchsia organza.
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- Jill Sander
- Milan Fashion Week Fall 2012
Have you ever seen anything this perfectly pretty in your life? Well.. yes probably. But seriously, so stunning.
As Raf Simons’ took his final bow after his swan song for Jill Sander, the tearful ovation he received made it evident that it could not have been a better collection to end with. Federico Marchetti even stated, “Raf was in tears at Jil Sander, the purest moment in fashion since I started in this industry.”
The Belgian designer delighted guests with a minimalistic, ladylike collection. Oversized, voluminous coats in camel and desaturated pastels that featured bright lining were offset by 50s inspired dresses that brushed the ankles. The coats were draped over many of the looks and either left open, tied at the waist or demurely clenched at the chest. As the the show progressed hemlines crept upwards and dresses became either body conscious or resembled slips and many featured piping giving a more contoured look. Navy, camel and flushes of juicy red emerge and were colour blocked between black. Finally the show wrapped up with all black dresses made of glossy garbage bag like material.
The stand out piece for me was the beautiful off-the-shoulder navy dress that featured an adorable cutout at the chest and flared out to the ankles. It was so elegant and echoed the feeling of the entire collection perfectly in one lovely package.
As Raf Simons’ reign comes to an end, the house of Jill Sander will be bringing its namesake back to take over once again. The mystery behind why Raf chose to leave Jill Sander still remains a mystery but one thing is for sure: he has left his mark and I for one can’t wait to see what he does next.
- Dolce & Gabbana
- Milan Fashion Week Fall 2012
The orchestra music and dim lighting set the tone for the show as models stepped through a gold-leafed Baroque picture frame. The Sicilian art work and baroque inspired collection began with mostly dark pieces which quickly became adorned by ornate gold trim along the neck, sleeves and hemlines. Soon after the skirts became voluminous with elaborate belts cinching the waists. Blouses made of frilly white lace were introduced midway through while still maintaining a black base. Finally there was a mini explosion of colour in the form of heavily detailed cherub tapestry prints. Overall there was a demure ladylike vibe to the collection with skirts skimming the knee and capes completing many looks. The looks were complete with accessories like jewel encrusted headbands, pearl adorned bags, black Madonna like veils and oversized gold jewelry.
