Chic Inspector

INC Editor at Large, Kate Young Party at Le Bain

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 22:33:00 +0000

Models wearing INC

Last night I attended the launch party at Le Bain in the Meatpacking District for Kate Young celebrating her new title, INC Editor at Large for the brand, INC International Concept. Based on a few questions I received from people at the party I guess it wasn't clear that STYLIST, Kate Young styled the INC collection Spring 2012 campaign and did not design it. Anyway, the party was packed with fashion bloggers favorites such as Kelly of Glamourai and Emily Weiss of Into The Gloss.

Here are some images from the INC Campaign:

Doo.Ri for Impulse at Macy's Collection Preview

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 00:11:00 +0000

Doo.Ri for Impulse at Macy's

Womenswear designer, Doo.Ri is in great company with the likes of Karl Lagerfeld, Giambattista Valli and Matthew Williamson by launching her own Impulse collection at Macy's. Her affordable collection will be available on February 15th in 185 Macy's stores and on Macys.com.

I caught up with Doo.Ri at the preview today and she was all too nice to answer a few questions about her Impulse Collection.

What was the inspiration for this Impulse collection at Macy's?
I was really inspired by my studio, I wanted to bring my home of New York and often times what I'm inspired by which is Art and bold graphic prints.

What do you think your usual customer will take away from this collection?
I really didn't want to there to be any distinction to what I bring to my own line versus what I bring to Macy's. My line it's really about elegant, jersey and all of those pieces I wanted to use for Macy's as well.

How did you feel about designing for a lower price point?
I'm all about the democratization of clothing. I love great design at an affordable price. If I can get my price point lower that would be great.

Would you collaborate with Macy's again?
I had so much fun! Everything is in the realm of possibility. They really made this such an easy and fun process for me.

Inspector's Pick of the Week: Club Monaco Neck Warmer

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 23:44:00 +0000

Club Monaco Neck Warmer available at Shopbop

Happy Monday!

I think it's official, it snowed over the weekend. Now I really believe that we are in Winter. I don't know if you can sense my excitement about the snow but regardless of that it's time to step it up. I love a scarf but a better and more glam alternative is a fur neck warmer. You can wear a fur neck warmer with your winter coat or just with an everyday blouse to vamp up the chic factor.

This one is by Club Monaco available at ShopBop.com.

Please PETA unclench your paws, this neck warmer is faux fur.

Jenna Lyons at Lucky FABB Conference Video

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 19:45:00 +0000

I hope your weekend is going great.
I post this video of Jenna Lyons, Creative Director at J. Crew at Lucky FABB Conference because I recently watched this again and got completely inspired. Jenna grew up as an awkward child to being one of the most respected woman in fashion is truly admirable. The video I believe was taken close to two years ago but regardless she gives timeless advice to the audience about the drive and determination you need to work in fashion.

Enjoy!

Who To See at NYFW, All Male Designers?

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Thu, 19 Jan 2012 16:30:00 +0000


Designers: Alexander Wang, Altuzarra, Marc Jacobs, Prabal Gurung and Proenza Schouler

A follower of mine on Twitter asked me, "who are you dying to see at NYFW?" My immediate response was Alexander Wang, Altuzarra, Marc Jacobs, Prabal Gurung, Proenza Schouler and Jason Wu. Then the follower implied that my all male list of designers are "killing the game the right now".

When I complied that list of designers it didn't come across my mind that all of the designers were... male. I'm not a sexist or anything like that, I do have a few favorite female designers, but they weren't the ones that first came to mind. My other personal favorites during New York Fashion Week season is Nicole Miller, Karen Walker, Erin Fetherston, The Row, Cynthia Rowley and a few others of course. Let's be honest, many of the hot tickets during NYFW are labels by men.

Question: In the past five years in the New York City market which female designer is on the same level or close to the likes of Alexander Wang?

Karen Walker Coming To Anthropologie in March

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 18:00:00 +0000

Hi There by Karen Walker for Anthropologie

I found out some great news today, Karen Walker is bringing her stripes and full skirt girlishness to Anthropologie in March! I've praised Karen Walker a few times on this blog, so this collaboration was a delightful surprise. This will be the designer first time having her label in a mass retailer. Expect to see Karen Walker in 164 Anthropologie stores this Spring.

source

Are you excited that Hi There by Karen Walker will be available in Anthropologie?

Sh*t Fashion Girls Say Videos

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 20:34:00 +0000

These 'Sh*t (blank) Girls Say' has become an epidemic on youtube and other video sharing sites. I secretly want them to stop but honestly, these video are pretty darn hilarious.

There are two Sh*t Fashion Girls Say videos swirling the internet now. From watching these videos, I'm very guilty with some of these sayings.

Do you think these videos are an accurate portrayal of the typical 'fashion girl'?

Winter Footwear: Steve Madden Combat Boots

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 20:23:00 +0000

Steve Madden Troopa Boots

Someone recently asked me, "How do I look cool in these frigid temperatures without reaching for the UGGS?" Well, we all know that UGGS had there time in fashion history and still is practical for some people. However combat boots are a go-to item for many people now. I just came back from the fashionable SoHo and some many people dressed up these boots that were common among the men and women in the arm forces. (Don't ya just love fashion for that reason, jumping the sartorial boundaries.)

There are many variations of combat boots, so if you are going to jump ship and purchase them go for real leather (if you can afford it) not faux. Real leather boots after a few wears will begin to look distress = looking even more cooler.

Anyway, these Steve Madden combat boots are pretty dope and less than $100.

Which do you prefer UGGs or combat boots?

Fancy Pants: Simone Marchetti

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 17:00:00 +0000

Simone Marchetti

Tamu from All Pretty Birds just posted these pictures of Simone Marchetti, editor at D-La Repubblica. Before this post I had no idea who Simone Marchetti was, but based on these rocking printed pants I definitely want to know more. Now that the Pitti Uomo, a men's trade show in Florence has started hopefully more pics of him will pop up.

What do you think of Simone Marchetti's pants?

WINTER ESSENTIAL: Oversized Sweaters

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 23:52:00 +0000

Rihanna wearing an oversized sweater

A few people didn't like the above outfit that Rihanna wore recently. I'm a fan of Rihanna's music but way more for her sense of style. Her outfit struck a chord with me because even though it's getting colder and colder by the day here on the East coast, I haven't seen many people in the streets wearing an oversized sweater. Everyone is bundled up with their coats and scarves because of the frigid temperature. However I think that a luxurious oversized sweater paired with heels and a great pair of jeans a la Rihanna is perfect for
the winter.

1. Alexander Wang

2. Wildfox White Label

4. 3.1 Phillip Lim

5. Marc by Marc Jacobs

Will you wear an oversized sweater this Winter?

Jason Wu for Target

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:19:00 +0000

I'm going to let you all in on a secret, when I was in Grad school in 2010 I had a group presentation titled, Fashion Icon Jason Wu Livens Up Target. The presentation consisted of us explaining why Jason Wu would be a great designer to do a capsule collection for Target. You are probably wondering why I'm telling you this? Here's why, a class project I thought of and the rest of my group members finished came to fruition not too long ago. A year and half later, Jason Wu in reality is collaborating with Target! To look at my group project click here.

Jason Wu for Target in store February 5th

In actuality Jason Wu for Target collection will debut next month with which will consist of 53 pieces, relatively small compared to that massive Missoni for Target collection. From the sneak peek on Style.com, Jason Wu is still executing his famous formula that made him a hit with Michelle Obama and other red carpet starlets.

Are you excited about Jason Wu collaborating with Target?

Holiday Online Sale Shopping Finds

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 +0000

ASOS and Urban Outfitters had Great Holiday Sale Items!

One of the best things I did on my Holiday break didn't involve going to a beach (even though that may have been better) was online shopping. After Christmas I threw myself to the web to see if I can gift myself some chic pieces without breaking the bank. Urban Outfitter had some really great pieces on sale plus they had free shipping at the time. ASOS always has free shipping which is always a thumbs up.

1.Urban Outfitters $19.99 ($59)

2.Urban Outfitters $9.99 ($44)

3.Urban Outfitters $6.99 ($20)

4.Urban Outfitters $19.99 ($54)

5. Payless (sold out) Similar style

6. ASOS $18.18 ($63.63)

During the Holiday, did you catch any good sales or deals?

Quote of the Day: Tim Gunn Thinks Not Designing for Plus Size Women is Shameful

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 00:02:00 +0000

"Have you seen most of the plus-size sections out there? It’s horrifying. Whoever’s designing for plus-size doesn’t get it. The entire garment needs to be reconceived. You can’t just take a size 8 and make it larger. In my travels, I’ve been an advocate for larger women. I’ve been talking to designers, but only a half-dozen make an effort. Most say, ‘I don’t want a woman who’s a size 10 or 11 wearing my clothes.’ Well, shame on you!"

- Tim Gunn, Tim Gunn's New Day Job

2011 Recap: A Year In Review

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 23:20:00 +0000

2011 for me a has a blogger (and other titles) had there ups and down. But I think it's best to focus on the positive, so here is a recap of my favorite moments and features:


Bui Lavry PR Present Blogger Week Vol. 1

I got to style five looks with Australian public relations agency, Bui Lavry PR earlier this year. It was fun to go through their showroom and have total creative freedom of how I wanted to put the looks together. You can look through the rest of the lookbook which had other bloggers looks as well. Click here.

Kimberly Taylor Fall 2011 Presentation

Attending the Kimberly Taylor presentation and interviewing my favorite blogger, Man Repeller.

The back of Gloria Baume, Fashion Director at Teen Vogue

This picture makes me laugh! The whole time at the Karen Walker Fall 2011 show I had to maneuver my head around Gloria's massive fur hat during the show to take pictures of the models. I wasn't upset at all, the hat was gorgeous!

Jewelry Designer, Bijules Fall 2011 Presentation

The Bijules Fall 2011 presentation was held at the Gramercy Hotel and what was unique about this presentation is that the servers wore white tuxedos and carried trays of Bijules jewelry for everyone to see.

DKNY Summer Pool Party

I really do miss a good pool party and when DKNY throw one to showcase their sunglasses it was really fun.

Forever 21 Spring Collection

I was completely infatuated with this sort of StyleMint's Venice Mint Stripe inspired top at Forever 21 Spring presentation. The retailer has really turned up the fashion volume on their products in the past year.

Chic Inspector on StyleCaster.com

StyleCaster featuring me on their site was another major highlight 2011. Click here to read more.

Black Style Now: Forty Fab Fashion Bloggers

This feature on Essence.com was a totally surprise. I woke up to people tweeting me and not knowing why, but when I found out I was completely shocked and honored to be mentioned with some amazing bloggers.


2012 AGTA Spectrum & Cutting Edge Competition

Back in October, I attended the 2012 AGTA Spectrum Awards, which features gemstones and fine jewelry from all over the world. I had to vote on three of my favorite pieces which were really fun but challenging, there were so many to choose from. Click here to see some of the pieces.


Hosted the Baurch College Women in Business Fashion Show

A year ago if you would've asked me to host a fashion show and I would looked at you strange and kept it moving. I'm breaking out of my mold of being shy and having anxiety when it comes to public speaking. Hosting this fashion show was the greatest validation to myself that I can conquer a fear, do an amazing job and still be alive at the end of the day. Click here to watch the video.

Hoping 2012 brings more positivity and wonderful opportunities.

Must Read: Cathy Horyn Recounts the Year in Fashion

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Sat, 31 Dec 2011 04:17:00 +0000

The Cut Blog Editor, Amy Odell wearing Miu Miu's Glitter Pumps

"Miu Miu’s glitter Mary Jane pumps. They were cute until every fashion editor started wearing them."

-Cathy Horyn writes about fashionable moments that she loves and are tired of from 2011.

kim kardashian

New Year's Eve Wish List

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 05:10:00 +0000

New Years Eve Wish List of Party Dresses

1. Helmut Lang
2. TopShop
3. TopShop (My Favorite)
4. DKNY
5. BB Dokata

Pic of the Day: Rachel Zoe and Marc Jacobs in St. Barts

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 15:19:00 +0000

Designer Marc Jacobs and Stylist Rachel Zoe

Well it seems like fashion's elite, Marc Jacobs and Rachel Zoe are enjoying their holiday vacation and the sun on the beach in St. Barts.

Must be real nice.

source

Q&A with Designer, Heidi Merrick

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 01:06:00 +0000

Fashion Designer, Heidi Merrick

I've been a fan of designer, Heidi Merrick and her namesake label for quite some now. As the holiday is approaching I wanted to check in to get to know about more about the designer, her process and her plans for the Holidays.

What was the defining moment that you realized that you wanted to be a designer?

My wedding day. I made my dress and someone said to me, "You are wasting your life, you need to make dresses every day."

Was there any difficulties starting your own business?

I started small and measured, the difficulties pile with responsibilities. So, no.

Heidi Merrick Spring 2012 Collection

What’s your design process like?

Every season it changes. But it's always emotional, revealing, challenging and deeply personal. I begin riffing on ideas usually 4 months before I even cut a dress.

What was your inspiration for Spring 2012 Collection?

A love story, between a young surfer on the rise and a little girl left in a small beach town. I really tapped in to childhood memories about the surf stars in all the glamour. It was great to relive it.

If you weren’t a designer, what profession would you have?

I'd love to have a more simple expression of life; a fisherman, a farmer, an unknown oil painter...

Heidi Merrick Spring 2012 Collection

What made you decide to go branch your brand into home?

We were spending a lot of time in the studio making stuff for my house... I finally realized I'd have to produce something to make our money back for all my side projects! -No, I thought, if I want this so does someone else!

Any advice to my readers who want to make their love of fashion design into a business?
Count the cost? Maybe had I known how much work it was I wouldn't have done it! OH, but I'm so glad I did. Maybe my most practical advice should be, know your market.

Heidi Merrick Spring 2012 Collection

Do you have any plans for the Holidays?

I'm going to my parent’s house, we'll probably wear 4'3"s and go surfing and if it's too cold we'll go play with the horses and my brother’s house!

What is your favorite look from your Spring Collection?
My favorite from Spring is the Fountain dress, I wore it in green to my annual Christmas party last night!

Heidi Merrick Fountain Dress in Nude

Market Appointment: Zac Posen Pre-Fall 2012

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 08:30:00 +0000

Zac Posen Pre-Fall 2012

I didn't know what to expect when I was going to arrive at the Zac Posen showroom to the view the Pre-Fall 2012 collection. Ok I lied, who am I kidding, I knew I was going to see some amazing gowns. I've always admired Zac's attention to detail and emphasis on structure. For this collection it was inspired by Chinese-Japanese influences, so a lot of embroidery, shapes and rich tones mixed in the with the glamour that Zac as always been known for. The red dress above had catapulted me into another world that I had to share it on twitter, instagram, tumblr and facebook.

Zac Posen Pre-Fall 2012 Inspiration Board

Man Repeller... Gets Engaged!

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 07:30:00 +0000

Man Repeller's Arm Party

"Men that truly find themselves repelled are far too driven by the female exterior, those that stick around and get to know what goes on beneath the turban are the ones more concerned with intellect and, you know, real genuine pizazz. Weed out the fools and let the good seeds blossom. It will in turn make for one hell of a floral print, and I'm talking better than Celine resort."

-Man Repeller, The Jig is Up
Congrats to my favorite fashion blogger and man repeller, announced that she got engaged!

Hosting the Baruch College Women in Business Fashion Show

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 17:00:00 +0000

You can call me a blogger, a fashionista and now apparently my new title is, Hostess. Yes indeed, I hosted the 3rd Annual Baruch College Women in Business Fashion Show. I'm not one to jump into the spotlight all the time but I really enjoyed being the MC and talking to the audience about fashion and trends appropriate for workplace.

Andrew Mukamal Thoughts on the Lady Gaga's Workshop at Barneys

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 15:30:00 +0000

Stylist, Andrew Mukamal didn't hold back his thoughts and feelings about the Lady Gaga's Workshop at Barneys. I didn't attend the workshop, I just tried to follow everyone's banter regarding Lady Gaga and Barneys collaboration on twitter (follow me if you don't). I don't want to place my opinion solely on Andrew's thoughts but he does have some valid points. Watch the video above!

Inspected Trend: Sporty Chic

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 23:15:00 +0000

Spring/Summer '12

I was going through the NYC Spring/Summer '12 collections and as I was winding down the analysis of what and who stood out during New York Fashion Week. It was the young ones such as Alex Wang and his good friend and fellow designer, Altuzarra that really had strong point of views. What was apparent between them and Rag & Bone is that they were able to balance sporty althetic influences and still make it sexy and sleek.

Next Collaboration with H&M is Marni

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:39:00 +0000

News broke this week that the next H&M designer collaboration will be with luxury Italian label, Marni. This is major and I’m honestly more excited about this collab more than the Versace concert-shopping-extravaganza. If you don't know Marni is known for mixing of prints and bold color. Marni doesn’t have much pop culture appeal as Versace but for the immediate fashion crowd they are excited about what’s going to appear in stores and online on March 8, 2012.

Consuelo Castiglioni, Founder and Creative Director for Marni and Margareta van den Bosch, Creative Advisor for H&M

Gift Idea for the Twitter Enthusiast

saneeta_h@yahoo.com (Saneeta Harris) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 23:46:00 +0000

Counting down the days until Christmas, it's coming as much as I don't want it to appear in my sight Christmas is coming. If you haven't been following me on twitter do it now and if you don't have a twitter account, get one. We are submerged in this digital social media world you better jump on it or be left behind. To those many twitter enthusiasts out there, here's an awesome gift specifically for you, a book that publish all of your tweets and you can choose your title for just $15. The book or a tangible tweet log is by Ether Press that creates publish-on-demand artifacts of the ephemeral. So if you feel your tweets are worth commemorating jump on this and get one. You can also try it out to see what your tweet book will look like.
Click to see my tweet book.