Sil Browne - Not So Casual Observer

Fashion Flavor of the Week!

2011-12-04T20:40:00.000-08:00

Michael by Michael Kors Hamilton Large

In celebration of the 30th anniversary of Michael Kors Holdings Limited, here is this week's special feature. The Hamilton is a quality black leather tote with chained silver detailing that adds a final touch of luxury.

Retail Price (Michael Kors Website): $348.00
Lower Price Alert: $315.000 (Amazon.com)
One Day Price Special (12/4/11): $243.60 (Bloomingdales.com)

Friday is the New Black!

2011-11-26T22:00:00.000-08:00

Fortunately for the economy and hopefully for our closets, Black Friday sales were up 7% from 2010. Of course the majority of the shopping focus is centered around electronics, but several clothing retailers lured shoppers into their various locations to benefit from the bargain mania.

Although some may turn their noses up at the mad dash that takes place in order to benefit from a sale, why is it considered poor taste to insist on buying below retail? From a strictly business perspective, a retail price is the sale of a particular product to the ultimate consumer. In other words, not only do we pay for the product itself, but also the travels of said product throughout some extensive supply chain. Therefore, when savvy consumers bargain hunt or take advantage of large sales, are they not just cutting out the cost of the middleman?

In honor of the economically stylish, silbrowne@blogspot.com will feature weekly items that are both in season and under retail. After all, paying full price is soooo overrated!

Kate Spade Connie - Red
Retail Price: $225.00
Kate Spade Sale Price: $135.00
Lower Price Alert: $107.62 (Amazon.com)

Tune in Next Week!!!!!!

(Picture provided by zappos.com)

Chicly Creepy!

2011-10-31T20:49:00.000-07:00

On the one night of the year where the rules of fashion are cast to the night winds, many individuals go to wild lengths to express themselves in a way they ordinarily would not. Below are a some snap shots of a few familiar faces. You decide, were they able to execute a Halloween costume with the trendy creativity usually instituted by the help of stylists, or just take a less excusable misstep?

Debra Messing and husband Daniel Zelman paid homage to El Dia de Los Muertos in a frighteningly beautiful depiction of skeletal figures.

The cast of NBC's Today Show recalled the fashionable spectacle that was the royal wedding in their own display of the most memorable garments.

Bette Midler seems to enjoy the holiday, but the costume appears to be a bit undefined.

Heidi Klum, one of fashion's most recognizable faces, executed the peak of creativity by unveiling herself as a skinned corpse. When one is regularly draped in garments from the most talented designers, a princess costume just wouldn't do.

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!!!!

(Pictures provided by stylebistro.com)

Haute or Not?

2011-10-19T20:12:00.000-07:00

By textbook definition, fashion is "a popular trend, especially in styles of dress, ornament or behavior". To state that something is "in fashion" is to indicate that a particular look or form of expression has a large following. Based on a few of these terms it is understandable to see the appeal of wildy popular public figures like Lady Gaga, Madonna or Nicki Minaj. Yet, although the masses may consider the style of these women to be entertaining, how trendy or stage transcending could they be?

In June 2011, Lady Gaga was presented with the Fashion Icon Award by the Council of Fashion Designers of America. Most recently, Nicki Minaj was invited to accompany Anna Wintour, Ms. American Vogue herself, to shows for both Carolina Herrera and Oscar De La Renta during New York Fashion Week. Clearly the fashion industry has embraced these entertainers and their individual forms of expression. It is doubtful that Anna Wintor will be gracing the halls of Conde Nast with a dress constructed from raw meat and a Barbie pink wig, would you?

Listed below are a few of the more notable outfits from the closets of ground breaking performers. Stop - evaluate - maybe one or two could be trend inspiring...or not!

(Pictures provided by elle.com, whatshaute.com, and fanpop.com)

When It All Falls Down!

2011-10-06T07:17:00.000-07:00

Typically a story of this nature would be reserved for the "News" section of this blog, but the potential for creative commentary is far too great.

As previously mentioned on the "News" page, rapper Kanye West, assembled a Ready-to-Wear women's line that was originally scheduled to debut at New York Fashion Week. Instead, West chose to reveal his collection during Paris Fashion Week - far from the semi-protective cushion of his home front. Judging from the stream of negative reviews that began before the chairs were emptied and the flashing lights dimmed, Kanye West could have used the home field advantage.

Without quoting fragments of reviews from other bloggers and journalists who were in attendance, the sheer imagery opens the critical floodgates. The amateur nature of West's collection beckons at the College Dropout's inability to attend to the basics. Perhaps if more time was devoted to his studies, West would have produced an innovative line that was both on trend and on season instead of a behind the times misstep. While more seasoned designers were showing beautiful patterns and warm colored fabrics relative to Spring 2012, Kanye West exhibited dark leathers, furs and other heavy weight materials. Although the fabrics were luxurious, they were cut and formed to the models in a way that reflected potato sacks rather than quality garments.

Granted, there were a few items in the line that were functional, yet they lacked both the creativity to stand out from shows of seasons past and an overall familiarity with the female form.

The verbal whirlwind surrounding this collection, the sheer pomposity of Mr. West and his rapid launch into the famously selective fashion industry promised a show featuring outstanding talents and creativity. Sometimes, even celebrities write checks they cannot cash.

For the complete collection, please click here.

(Pictures provided by daily.co.uk)

Dated Styles: Taking Men Back to the Future!

2011-09-25T14:11:00.000-07:00

"So, OK. I don't want to be a traitor to my generation and all, but I don't get how guys dress today. I mean, c'mon, it looks like they just fell out of bed and put on some baggy pants, and take their greasy hair, Ew! And cover it up with a backwards cap and like, we're expected to swoon? I don't think so!" – Cher, Clueless

If one were to remove the "valley-like" tone from this quote, a very true statement is uncovered that doesn't just pertain to the more youthful of the male species. Although the ladies are guilty of hanging onto dated styles just a little too long or sporting the "rolled out of bed" look, it often seems that men are the greatest offenders.

It has been said that "men dress for women and women dress for other women." If this is so, there appears that quite a few folks have grown restless in their desire to impress. Quite possibly the men have grown weary of competing with other women, but there is no excuse for tight jeans, leather pants or anything reflecting glam rock. Additionally, the revival of muscle shirts and light denim jackets with popped collars could bring even the least known 80s characters back to life. Whether it's 1985 or 2011, Marty McFly will never know the difference.

(Picture provided by wildsound.com)

DC Fashion: Here Today, Gone By The Weekend!

2011-09-13T09:19:00.000-07:00

It is a known fact that New York City is the fashion capital of the United States and arguably of the entire world. Though on Thursday, September 8th, various cities across the U.S. followed suit participating in Fashion's Night Out, the annual kick-off to New York Fashion Week.

The tiny but trendy corner of Georgetown was the center for Washington D.C.'s second annual Fashion's Night Out affair. A slew of style aficionados braved tornado-like weather to experience the many sales, raffles, fancy cocktails and sample giveaways provided by the participating boutiques. Although Georgetown may have lacked the celebrity foot traffic and high-profile coverage of it's New York City counterpart, D.C. more than compensated with it's Vintage en Vogue fashion show,the FNO Flash Mob performers and talented stylists offering advice to fashion enthusiasts.

With the success of Fashion's Night Out Georgetown, the momentum was set for September 10th's Fashion, Beauty and Lifestyle Expo that took place at the Washington Convention Center. Though, even the presense of industry representatives Nigel Barker, Korto Momolu and Jaslene Gonzalez, could not overshadow the sea of two-tone hairstyles, flammable fabrics and ill-fitting garments. Rather than exhibiting what D.C. could offer the competitive industries of Fashion and Beauty, the event took the form of an impromptu audition for America's Next Top Model.

Though best known for it's concentration in politics and legal affairs, Washington D.C. does have a network of fashion admirers. Yet, as rapidly as one event can come along and peak interest, another could follow and douse all hope.

Some Rules Were Made to Be Broken!

2011-09-07T19:30:00.000-07:00

Indeed, if we were members of the elevating middle class of the late 19th century through the 1950s, all breathable white fabrics and pristine white shoes would be packed away until the next Memorial weekend. Fortunately, rules of social etiquette have greatly evolved since that time period and contrary to popular belief it is okay to wear white after Labour Day.

We must all bear in mind that certain colors and fabrics are highlighted during particular seasons for a reason. Dark wool knit materials are not befitting of the heat intensive summer months. Yet, should we limit the well-garmented display of an entire color to a few weeks within the year? This question is not meant to indicate that white sandals and sun hats should be worn against the backdrop of fall and winter months, but a lovely blouse or, dare I say, even a sleek pant could endure beyond the first Monday in September.

“Before Easter, after Labor Day, the old rules no longer ring true. White is a 365 day-a-year proposal! Keep the fabrications appropriate to the season and you will always be chic.”
–Ken Downing, Neiman Marcus creative director

(Picture provided by collegefashion.com)

Body Ink - Artistic Expression or Permanent Accessory?

2011-08-07T14:12:00.000-07:00

Often times we pass individuals on the street with various representations of themselves scrolled across their bodies. Some tattoos appear to have personal/ emotional indications, but others could very well be the result of silly adolescence or a night of intoxication. Either way, there is a market for permanent body ink. The question is, how do these lasting expressions affect the ever changing realm of style?

Persons with tattoos often defend their body ink as a form of artistic expression. Yet, can this form of expression take away from another? In fashion, there are a few style choices that could possibly be enhanced by tattoos; for example, Glam Rock or Punk. Familiar public figures that often exhibit this look are Rihanna and Adam Lambert. But when the style changes, is it possible for the body art to adjust to the new look?

Angelina Jolie, an actress famous for her tattoos, is pictured above in a long elegant black gown with the updo to match. Though, when she turns around, her tattoos are made visible and somewhat downplay the look of the woman facing forward. The picture almost depicts a mullet sort of effect. Ms. Jolie seems to be business in the front, but all party in the back.

Of course, tattoos are a personal choice and definitely a lot easier to pull-off in Hollywood than corporate America, but when contemplating which picture should be imprinted on an ankle, back or forearm, how long will it be before the look just does not fit? After all, one scarf may be great under a blazer, but may not suit that polka-dotted cardigan as well.

(Pictures provided by 2tattoodesigns.com and trendhunter.com)

It's Time to Reap What You SEW!

2011-07-28T20:59:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the premiere of Project Runway season 9. In an effort to stir up the original formula, 20 designers were invited to New York, but by the end of day one only 16 could continue on in the hopes of becoming America's Next Top...wait, wrong show.

The designers chosen for this show are creative, vivacious and their personalities never disappoint. Unfortunately, the same could not be said for the first runway show. It was clear that the designers comprehended the 70s wide leg trend and the remaining looks were rather one note. Of course this could be accredited to first day jitters and limited materials (pajamas and sheets?!?).

The most impressive, both through design, styling and construction, was former Miss Trinidad and Tobago Universe, Anya. She entered the competition with only 4 months sewing experience but was able to produce a silk kimono print halter with a well-tailored wide leg grey pant . Yet, she was in great company with adorably wearable pieces produced by Anthony Ryan and Bert. Anthony Ryan, though challenged by color blindness, created a grey blouse with striped black lace and paired it with an emerald green mini with continued lace detailing along the front. Bert cleverly converted boxer shorts into a chic day dress using slate grey to perfectly color block the peach strips in the undergarment. Putting aside a few dated styling concerns, the judges named Bert the winner of this week's challenge.

On a more sour note, viewers can only hope to recover from the eyesores that were Joshua's, Julie's and Rafael's designs. Although Rafael was forewarned by the insightful Tim Gunn about the judges concerns regarding his taste and style, he produced a rather frightful display of ill-fitting heather grey capris, an okay white blouse and a leopard bib-like necklace. Unsurprisingly, Rafael was the first eliminated from the competition. Fortunately, fans can take comfort in knowing there are many more episodes to come.

Until next week :)

(Picture provided by askmissa.com)

Follow "Sil_Browne" On TWITTER!!!

2011-07-26T09:05:00.000-07:00

In addition to frequenting more blog entries, look to my Twitter account for immediate commentary on breaking fashion news!!!!

(Picture provided by propsblog.com)

Lavishness Is Sooooooo Last Year!

2011-07-25T17:09:00.000-07:00

The fashion industry has not been exempt from the wrath of the global economic crisis and thus we have witnessed various alterations for these exhibitors of style. Fashion magazines are vying for greater ad layouts and using the mass appeal of celebrities to increase sales and profits. Luxury designers are experiencing the weight of potential foreclosures and in turn have opted for a more cost-effective means of artistic expression. Today, fashion greats such as Vera Wang, Karl Lagerfeld, and Jean Paul Gaultier have partnered with department stores Kohls, Macy's and Target, respectively, to offset the loses they are experiencing on the "high-end".

It seems a bit ironic that an industry based on the glamour of inaccessibility is forced to perform the same checks and balances that everyday citizens endure. Yet, due to the basic principals of supply and demand, the same industry that dictates our trends has now fallen to the will of the people.

Don't get me wrong, I am not exempt from the overwhelming gaiety any fashion aficionado feels in the presence of Chanel, Louboutin, and Prada. There is a sense of accomplishment that is highlighted when given the opportunity or achieving the success to obtain such rare and luxurious pieces. Yet, until both we as individuals and the global economy are financially tuned enough to keep up with the Jones', the more fiscally fabulous clothing options will do just nicely. "Fiscally fabulous" - sounds better than "economical", "cheaper", or "discounted" right!

(Picture provided by editinternational.com)

Following the Leader

2011-07-06T14:28:00.000-07:00

This... 'stuff'? Oh... ok. I see, you think this has nothing to do with you. You go to your closet and you select out, oh I don't know, that lumpy blue sweater, for instance, because you're trying to tell the world that you take yourself too seriously to care about what you put on your back. But what you don't know is that that sweater is not just blue, it's not turquoise, it's not lapis, it's actually cerulean. You're also blithely unaware of the fact that in 2002, Oscar De La Renta did a collection of cerulean gowns. And then I think it was Yves St Laurent, wasn't it, who showed cerulean military jackets? And then cerulean quickly showed up in the collections of 8 different designers. Then it filtered down through the department stores and then trickled on down into some tragic casual corner where you, no doubt, fished it out of some clearance bin. However, that blue represents millions of dollars and countless jobs and so it's sort of comical how you think that you've made a choice that exempts you from the fashion industry when, in fact, you're wearing the sweater that was selected for you by the people in this room. From a pile of stuff.(Meryl Streep, The Devil Wears Prada)

Although this excerpt from The Devil Wears Prada is a bit lengthy, I could not agree more with how well it sums up the effect of the fashion industry on every man. More specifically, that there are a set few rooms full of people that have selected certain items for the masses and all but too many have fallen slave to these decisions. One could even suggest that there is a sinister facet that allows this select few to determine just what people would be willing to wear as long as someone of consequence deems it "fashionable".

Some of the items that plague the greater population include Uggs, Jack Rodgers sandals and now TOMS. If you have not noticed already, you will now.

Challenge yourself on the commute home from work to count how many pairs you can spot. Just how uniform have the decisions of select few made us as a population?

Maybe you'll have to start this challenge in your own closet.

(Pictures provided by shoebuy.com, kozeetoes.com, popentertainment.com and hcs.harvard.edu)

"Stayin Alive": Summer Trends from the 70s

2011-06-22T08:23:00.000-07:00

We all know that fashion trends are recycled and in general "the more things change the more they stay the same." As we enter the summer solstice, let's check out the 2011 spring/summer trends that extract hints from the disco decade.

Marc Jacobs was seriously channeling Jodie Foster in the 1976 hit movie "Taxi Driver". He combined the broad rimmed sunhat with bare-all shorts, strappy sandles and a few psychedelic patterns to make for an all out 70s inspired look.

Although we are in the summer season, that is no reason to shy away from long sleeves or pants. We have a Spring 2010 repeat and with light fabrics such as, silk and even cotton, you can tap into the flower child within with an array of 70s style jumpsuits.

Other major 70s trends you may notice this summer include, bold stipes, electric colors (often paired together) and highwaisted capris that may differ from the more familiar wide-leg or bell-bottom, but still maintains the 70s appeal.

(Pictures provided by, sweetfuzz.com, refinery29.com and polyvore.com)

Age Appropriate: Is 14 the new 40?

2011-06-09T08:17:00.000-07:00

Many Sex in the City fans can recall the red carpet blunder that placed fifty something Samantha Jones in the same ensemble as Miley Cyrus, the teen queen. Although this scene was intended for comedic entertainment, several of us have witnessed similiar mishaps in a more everyday setting.

In our current realm of age obsession, how often do we see women of an advanced age or young girls trying to grab hold of the coveted twenties age range. Even Hollywood celebrities who are styled to a "T" illuminate this awful epidemic. So, let us take the time and observe just how this is displayed. Is the outfit too old or too young? Reference the ages and you decide!

Yes Miley, I too would feel uncomfortable in a dress I could not fill out.
(Miley Cyrus 2010 Oscars - Age: 17; stylefrizz.com)

Even young girls should not wear this one Mariah.
(Mariah Carey 2008 Candid Shot - Age: 38; thehoodtimes.com)

Like mother like daughter. Not inappropriate, but the similarities are outstanding.
(Madonna and Lourdes Macy's "Material Girl" clothing line launch - Madonna Age: 52; Lourdes Age: 13)

Not Dressing for the Job You Have!

2011-05-22T20:30:00.000-07:00

Ever enter the office on a Monday morning and wonder whether or not your fellow employees comprehend the term "business casual"? Don't get me wrong, I understand how mundane it may be to constantly wear the typical white button-up shirt and black pencil skirt to the office; but, how far can one venture without crossing into bad form?

As a child my mother insisted that I never leave the house looking like "nobody's child". In other words, she wanted me to be a reflection of her and present myself as such. As a adult, I have a great appreciation for that lesson and hopefully I can offer some of mother's wisdom to a select few.

1) Part-Time Party Girl: Ladies it is time to separate the closet. Pieces worn for a night out
at the discotec are not interchangeable with office attire. Let's bring the skirts down a
few inches and leave the low-cut glittered halters for after-hours when your choices can be
sheltered by the shade of night.

2) The Ironless: It appears that this title befalls many young corporate employees. Maybe it
takes a few years to transition from the rollout of bed, grab and go college lifestyle; but
I find this particular look incredibly disturbing. Slowly I imagine myself spouting phrases
such as: tuck in your shirt, brush your hair, iron your slacks, and I immediately
become Sister Silbrowne of Our Lady of the Unsettlingly Wrinkled.

3) The Business Too Casual: This final staff member is the most rebellious of the group. It
appears this particular employee (often attired with sneakers, jeans and/or Ts) has forever
extended the rules for Casual Friday.

I do not personally expect all office personnel to appear as though they stepped off the runway, but hopefully the previously addressed missteps will cease. You know who you are (insert sinister laughter here).

(Picture provided by www.coojob.net)

Where have all the Fashion Icons gone?

2011-05-09T14:08:00.000-07:00

Being that a week has lapsed since the actual Costume Institute Met Gala, I figured I needed to address the event more creatively than the typical "best and worst dressed" motif. Aside from my intent to offer my readers more considered feedback, it was necessary to take that time and wrap my mind around the parade of poorly translated runway couture.

I suppose this post refers back to my clever rant regarding hollywood celebrities and their fashion take over, but picturesque moments such as the Met Gala only prove that there are few with the stylistic know-how to be labeled icons. Rather, it appears that celebrities of today are labeled icons, but are really just well styled individuals. They have the fortune of working with stylists who help them to frequent the best dressed list; though, few have the trendsetting ability to become fashion royalty.

When we think of fashion icons, many of us revert back to those who have brought timeless staples to the world of style: Audrey Hepburn and the little black dress, Twiggy and the Mod look, and Jackie Kennedy Onassis for the formed suit look that became known as the "Jackie". Although, I think it is far too soon to dub these ladies fashion royalty, women such as Blake Lively and Rhianna have been labeled fashion icons of today. Blake Lively, though she claims to function without the use of a fashion stylist, has yet to establish a look that is uniquely outstanding. Rhianna, though very experimental with her look, has not been able to isolate one look long enough to make it a staple. Currently she is operating under a sense of fashion chaos that I find all too reminiscent of a performer from the past. A young, West Indian, singer and performer with an outrageous and ever changing style highlighted by extreme hairstyling choices...Grace Jones anyone.

I do not intend to propose that these young ladies may not one day come into a sense of self more easily proclaimed in their style of dress, but I wouldn't chisel any stone tablets just yet.

(Pictures provided by sell-clshoes.com and zimbio.com)

Long Live McQueen!

2011-04-29T08:19:00.000-07:00

I know that it may seem incredibly predictable, but what kind of fashion blogger would I be if I did not cover the Royal Wedding. Wouldn't you expect me to regale you with stories of love and romance, of princes and princesses, of Kate Middleton's Cinderella like tale? If that is the case, you'd better stop reading now.

Don't get me wrong, I respect and adore the tradition that is the Royal Family, but most importantly I respect the display of fashion that came from this event. The wedding was a impromptu runway affair, and I, the adoring aficiando. Of course, the highlight being the gorgeous lace bodiced Alexander McQueen gown chosen by the now Duchess of Cambridge (dseigned by Sarah Burton of the House of McQueen). I must say that in a Victorian dress echoing Grace Kelly, Kate Middleton was, to put it plainly, stunning.

Unfortunately, some often fashion forward guests seemed a bit unsure of appropriate royal wedding attire. The fabulous Victoria Beckham underwhelmed in her own design. After three children she should have maternity chic down packed. Why, therefore, did she insist on this shadow casting navy frock? Fortunately, in any good marriage there needs to be balance, and David Beckham took the reigns from his wife in royal appropriate Ralph Lauren.

Lastly, English socialite, Tara Palmer Tomkinson, made a fervent attempt to literally outshine the bride by nabbing every electric blue item in the UK. Sadly, her attempt to channel the Duke Blue Devil within left onlookers a bit overcome by the cobalt queen.

Hopefully, these missteps will not cost these ladies invites to future royal affairs. In the meantime, I must offer the decree: "off with their threads".

(Pictures provided by dailymail.co.uk and people.com)

Why Fashion Maintains the Zero Frame!

2011-04-21T21:16:00.000-07:00

When a trend plagues "the Media" and eventually the rest of the country, a small but steadfast group tries to locate the source. In the case of the size zero or less trend, who would we find at the birthplace?

In my research, I've found several fingers pointing toward straight men, gay men, and women as a cause for blame. People insist that straight men desire this figure, gay male designers prefer the clothes hanger look, and women place unattainable feats on their fellow females as a means of competition. All of these answers are somewhat credible, but I would have to say they are ALL WRONG!

Before I get to who I think is to blame, let's analyze this trend. I would have to say that the size zero stipulation is the most mundane thing to happen to the fashion industry. It has turned all of our models into cardboard cutouts rather than fabulous fashion figures.

Let's go back in time for a second and rediscover the fashion model. Twenty years ago, we hailed models who are still world renowned: Tyra Banks, Kate Moss, Heidi Klum, Brooke Shields, Naomi Campbell...and the list goes on and on. Today, very few people can name a model that has such an influence as the women I've just recalled. Now, these women are in their thirties and forties with no prospects on the horizon to take their places.

After much deliberation, I have determined that Hollywood is to blame. Sure we've had lovely movie stars in the past, but actresses have penetrated the fashion industry and used the zero size to boot out the models.

Once, being a model meant gracing the covers of top fashion magazines and becoming the face of popular design houses. Models we considered otherworldly because you couldn't just find a gorgeous, thin, 5'11 woman around every corner. So, in order to redefine beauty and infiltrate the industry that promotes it, actresses had to get rid of the beautiful beanstalks. Not everyone can grow to 5'11 or have unparalleled looks, but they can lose weight; Tori Spelling, Lindsay Lohan and many more have shown us how.

Now, the 5'3 Natalie Portman is on the cover of Vogue and the face of Christian Dior. Unfortunately, that means that the women on screen become more familar to the masses, and the models, once fashion's top representatives, just fade into the background.

Trends You LOVE to HATE!

2011-04-08T07:48:00.000-07:00

newsfeed.time.com

Has anyone else noticed that men's clothing has been shrinking over the years? We've had skinny ties, tight fitting shirts and most recently the GIRLFRIEND JEAN??!?!?!. Since the plunge into the millennium, men's attire has developed a serious case of anorexia and I believe it's about time for an intervention.

I must admit that I was never a fan of the oversized look, but this is a bit extreme. Skinny ties are fetching and on the right body a tight fitting shirt could do wonders. Yet, when one cannot walk the city streets without being visually assaulted by someone's family jewels, I cannot keep silent.

True, the summers of 2009 and 2010 brought us the boyfriend jean that could flatter just about any female figure with the right pump. But gentlemen, this was not meant as a personal challenge. Anything we can do, you can not necessarily do better.

Although the popular jeans brand, Levi's, is spearheading this SUCK-tioned trend, I can only hope that this one, like most, will soon see it's end. Until then, I can somewhat rejoice in the prediction that teen pregnancy will take a downward turn due to what I like to call T.I.M. (trend influenced impotency).

Feel strongly about this trend or any other's that force you the shield your eyes? Leave comments below! I look forward to hearing from you. Ciao for now!

What To NEVER Wear!

2011-03-31T19:31:00.000-07:00

WARNING: Faces have been concealed to protect the criminal.

Ladies, I am a huge fan of colorful, flowy garments but let's try to stick to colors found found in nature and fabrics that don't come with "no smoking" warnings.

This flammable frock (color unidentifiable) wouldn't look good on the tallest, tiniest model. Please don't find yourself in possession of this item.

Leggings have been a great flash back trend from the late 80s/ early 90s. Unfortunately, this young lady couldn't leave behind certain style, pattern and color combinations that should have never existed. The leopard leggings with the slightly oversized peep-shoulder blouse brings a definite time travel element; but, does anyone else feel that with some door-knocker earrings and the right asymmetrical haircut she could be Salt, Pepa, or Sprinderella?

Now, ladies are definitely open to take more risks when it comes to clothing, but the fellas aren't without their own flaws. I dig that when going out on the town the "wingman" status can be very sacred. Yet I promise, you will not lose each other in a crowd. So, matching outfits (though reminiscent of two year old twins taking photos at Sears) are not necessary.

Don't let bad clothes get in the way of good times :)

Get the London Look!

2011-03-24T21:26:00.000-07:00

FASHION'S Fall 2011 shows have come to an end and we're entering the turn of the seasons. Unfortunately, nobody mentioned that to mother nature. Although the sun peers here and there the wind keeps London's fashionistas in their layered best.

Although the chilled temperatures and typically dark skies urge us toward our garments of black and grey, a pop of color (such as this pale pink) brings a little light to your look.

Hanging on to fabulous Fall 2010 trends, we see this street snapshot of furs and vintage sweaters. In addition, these ladies incorporated crochet scarves which along with macrame are big trends for our upcoming Fall 2011 season.

Lastly, vintage never goes out of style. Here we see how very masculine trends with feminine patterns can create a great look. Pairing a print with a shoulder-padded oversized button-up and faded black leather boots follows the Fall 2010 "Man Up" trend with a girlie twist.

Personally, my favorite part of this look is the double scarf. The contrasting colors just seal the outfit. I think I will have to export this one back to the US. Ciao for now!

Let the Journey Begin!

2011-02-13T13:15:00.000-08:00

Since Fashion is all around me I can't help but to observe it. This blog will contain my loves, hates, and discoveries of the ever changing World-O-Style. Enjoy!