suitetwentythree | fashion psychology

Shameless.

2012-11-06T11:35:00.001-06:00

Alexander Wang's SS13 footwear configuration is not something to overlook. I cannot tell if he is aiming to deconstruct the riding boot or embellish the gladiator sandal, either way, his technique offers the audience a candid hybrid of industry and a raunchy heart. With Stella McCartney, Valentino, and other designers pushing the clear, plastic-like resources--similar looking to the '90s clear, jelly trend yet without the sheer disgrace, there's no doubt that the transparent movement is a strong survivor. It sparked with undergarments, then to blouses, off to dresses, now to footwear. While many theorists agree that the foot is the least important sensory district, Wang would beg to differ. Rather, he views footwear, at least for this next season, as an externalization of raw, exposed femininity.

sweater + pencil

2012-05-13T18:01:00.002-05:00

Spring is gradually fading away and summer is nearly upon us. Some days you can feel the strength of the sun, while others remain frigid. This random weather may not only confuse the mind, but also disrupt the fluidity of daily attire selection. A go-to-outfit in this climate is the combination of an oversized sweater and a pencil skirt. Together, the sweater and pencil build a relationship on balance, harmony, and aesthetic pleasure, much like what makes fashion itself survive. In regards to the characteristics of the sweater, a neutral knit is preferred. In regards to the pencil skirt, colour, print, and texture may vary, as long as the garment retains the pencil silhouette. When the seasons treat you with erratic behavior, you must challenge it with an unpredictable outfit.

Caution: Long Dresses May Get Caught On Escalator

2012-03-13T13:57:00.003-05:00

What could be more romantic than Lucian Matis's Fall 2012 Runway Collection at the Grand Ballroom in the Royal York Hotel...mmm... nothing! Lets just say, the man knows his way around enchantment. Floor length crochet gowns, black feathered capes, and innocently evil headpieces. It was a true sight to see. To top it all off, the whole show's eerie, yet eloquent atmosphere was manifested in the "shinning-like" room itself. In addition to the location, the pounding, dramatic, classical remixed music enforced the epic atmosphere. Three words: oh my gad.

Eyes On The Prize - Peplums.

2012-02-29T11:01:00.005-06:00

It's been sprinkled along the runway, red carpet, and even H&M stores. Now it has become more apparent than ever; peplums have blossomed. Though, why now? Was it not just last season that oversized, undefined waists were ideal. Maybe the woes of recent crises have caused us to search for the hope, growth and happiness that is endowed in images of fertile, hourglass female bodies? Or, maybe it is much more simple than that; it is just due time that we cycled back into a figure eight silhouette. Either way, I approve. A defined waist is aesthetically pleasing, male-enticing and great camouflage for any "too many sweets" day.

Wigs, For Real.

2012-02-01T11:03:00.001-06:00

Throughout history wigs have been associated with costume attire--an extraordinary form of dress for theatrical or ceremonial situations. They have been recognized as something that is associated with halloween, costume parties and unfortunate hair loss circumstances. Yet, this stigmatization of wigs may be fleeting; wigs may be changing from "mmm, don't think so" to "yeah, why not."
Remember, I'm not talking about weaves or extensions --which have habituated themselves in everyday wear for a number of years, I'm talking about full out wigs. Wigs being worn out for cocktails, dinner or even a quick run to the store. Sure, their functionality may not be substantial, but they can be strikingly transformative, sexy and playful. They can enhance the cohesiveness and drama of an ensemble instantly. Really, who needs real when you have wigs?

Save the Turtleneck.

2012-01-30T22:06:00.000-06:00

Honestly, I feel bad for the turtleneck. It was never the coolest kid in the bunch. It's past association with the most acute academics, the many horrid patterns and textures that have been unwillingly applied, and not to mention its name! Turtleneck. Really? Poor PR job. The truth is, the turtleneck has significant potential. Just because the turtleneck appears to be conservative and somewhat prude at times, does not mean that it cannot be stylish. Try a sheer turtleneck like AKIRA offers here. It's suggestive, chic and yet still, somehow, a turtleneck.

Sea Foam Spring.

2012-01-15T17:39:00.001-06:00

Some say it may be a little premature, but honestly it's never too early to start thinking about what to wear for the upcoming season. There seems to be a surplus of colour palettes coming Spring's way, but one colour that has settled in my forefront is sea foam green. Christian Dior displayed some of their most strikingly elegant gowns for Spring/Summer 2012 in the refreshing minty hue. The colour is so soft and welcoming that I genuinely feel that those who wear sea foam green must be good people. Now If the sea foam is too kind for you, pair it with accents of black and you'll regain some of that edge.

Over Accessorizing: When Does Good Go Bad?

2011-11-29T15:37:00.005-06:00

Bad

Good

As the accessory industry is at an all time high, consumers are spending more than ever on accessories. Whether it's that aggressive clutch, glamorous pair of earrings or innocent hairpiece, we want it. The question is, when is enough enough? Can one overdose in accessories? All earrings point to yes! There is a threshold. Too much shows a lack of character. Pick and choose your accessories carefully. We can't be good at everything all the time; we can't wear all our accessories all the time. Be confident in the few items you select, it will communicate a decisive nature. Hey, there's nothing more attractive than a woman who knows what she wants.

Idol.

2011-10-24T21:49:00.002-05:00

My Idol. You could learn a lot from this.

(Photo: Schuman, 2011).

LGFASHION WEEK - Life is your Runway.

2011-10-22T14:08:00.004-05:00

Last night I was blessed with the oppourtunity to volunteer at Toronto's LG Fashion Week. There were three runway shows: Lauren Bagliore (airy, black and white, sultry), David Dixon (80's aroma, punches of yellow, lace and detail), and Denis Gagnon (innocent, sexy, floral and silk). The compilation of artists left the audience with a dynamic feeling. Some of the garments celebrated structure while others admired the freedom of flow. What was the most stimulating were the off the runway looks. Beautiful headpieces and lethal pumps flooded through the audience. It provided me with reason to believe that there is no purpose in saving clothes. Now is the time to wear that special piece; life is your runway.

Short skirt and a long jacket.

2011-10-04T23:26:00.006-05:00

Like people, coats come in all different shapes and sizes. Some big, some small; some soft, some rough. This season requires a long, structured coat. It presents a sense of sophistication that can accompany any outfit. It supplies sufficient warmth, while still emitting style; a necessary item for any woman who craves function and fashion. When deciding on a colour go for neutrals. The coat is bold enough ladies, it doesn't need no "here I am" colour to add more umph.

Loafer Lover.

2011-09-23T19:25:00.004-05:00

Is it me or are loafers IT? Everywhere I turn I feel overwhelmed with loaf-psychosis. I cannot seem to get them out of my mind. Whether they're in my window shop view or turn up in my day dreams, I want em. They are the perfect addition to your fall wardrobe. You can dress them up, or preferably, dress them down, either way they make a simple, clean statement. A statement that projects professional, funky style. And yes I realize the term "loafers" might not be the most flattering choice of words but do not let that stop you. You would hate to be missing out on a great part of loaf, I mean life.

Heroic Beauty.

2011-08-22T18:05:00.003-05:00

The bittersweet reality has arrived -- fall is burgeoning upon us. Sorry to say it. In spite of the obvious drag, there is a silver lining. Fall trends are slowing starting to spill our way. Lanvin's Fall/Winter line has inspired me to be eager for the cold weather (and that's a lot coming from a Winnipeg girl). This upcoming season takes us to a mysterious place. Waves of dark colours, sultry lines and sharp hats are on the runway. The garments deliver a sense of mystic heroism that not only captures my curiosity, but makes me too want to be like these enchanting beauties.

Speaking Socks.

2011-07-24T22:32:00.004-05:00

When the word "socks" comes to mind generally unflattering words follow including dirty, sloppy and ew. As fashion continues to influence so many domains in our lives socks too are not avoided. Socks and stylish can now be used in the same sentence. It’s true, I swear! No longer are socks just there. They can be something. They can say something. Whether it be small increments of lace, colour or crochet, little details go a long way. Now keep in mind more detailed socks will increase your cost. So make a safe place for your socks at home because you certainly would not want one running away on you.

Desert Strorm

2011-07-04T12:27:00.000-05:00

There is nothing sexier than a woman who's covered up. Yes, I said it. Of course, that does depend on a few critical properties including fit, colour and confidence. Victoria Beckham’s Fall 2011 Collection embraces less revealing styles while still arousing her audience. A slight presence of Middle Eastern Desert Wear is transmitted through her headscarf pieces, billowing skirts and earth tone colours. If I ever get caught up in a desert storm, well I'd sure like to find myself wearing one of these outfits.

Guest Dress Stress

2011-06-18T12:05:00.002-05:00

A wedding day is certainly one of the most notable events in a person’s life. Not only is the ceremonial aspect momentous, so is the attire. As a society we tend to focus all of the "dress stress" on the bride. While the bride is under a great deal, let us not forget the "guest dress stress". As a guest one is required to provide an appropriate, tailored, well groomed outfit. Finding the suitable ensenble is challenging. The irritating part is that no one seems to sympathize with the "guest dress stress". It as if it ceases to exist. Television show after television show of bride’s freaking out about their dress. One day I would just like to witness a show revolved around the taxing activity of a guest finding a dress.

Straight up.

2011-05-27T16:46:00.000-05:00

The Bandeau: Summer's best friend. Straight up, this garment is a worthy buy. Much like any other bra, its primary function is support. Secondarily, and still imperatively, this is an object of chic fashion for the real-woman lifestyle. While the Bandeau comes from the lingerie family, its parallel lines resemble the breed of a bathing suit. This resemblance brings feelings of fun and friskiness. But no need to save this piece for the beach for it can accompany nearly any summer setup.

I do.

2011-05-07T14:35:00.002-05:00

The veil worn by Kate Middleton at the Royal Wedding was supreme. Its sheer nature produced just enough colour to give a mild sense of suspicion while still providing plenty of room for glow. The dichotomy between revealing and hiding one’s self is truly the essence of a veils elegance. But why confine this apparel to only a wedding or funeral? Take the veil outside of its comfort zone. Let’s make it acceptable for other activities such as dances, social events and cocktail parties. Now if worn casually a veil of a smaller size and reserved colour is suggested. Moral of the story: let your veils down ladies.

Lookin Fresh in the Nude

2011-04-25T10:08:00.000-05:00

If you want to look fresh this summer tap into Joe Fresh's compilation of nude polishes. Minimal, affordable, and still graceful. Summer gets referenced to as the season with colours notable for their overwhelming vibrancy and hue. Despite this truth, it is certainly a time to push the tones of nude. So ladies when summer breaches, get in the nude. No pun intended.

No Colouring Outside the Lines.

2011-04-13T11:33:00.002-05:00

One colour, two colour, three colour, four. Gucci, Chanel and a splash of Dior.

Colour blocking is looking more chic than ever this spring. Sporting an array of colours may seem overwhelming to some, but the reality is, if you do it right you look simple yet striking. Not only is dressing in a compatible set of colours easy on the eyes, it will make you feel confident. There is something empowering about wearing an ensemble of matte, bold colours. It symbolizes that you know what you want and no colour can stop you.

My Neck, My Scarf.

2011-03-28T17:38:00.003-05:00

To scarf or not to scarf? To scarf, obviously. It's no surprise that you see more than half the female population wear scarves. They're stylish, cozy and affordable. It is rare to find such a versatile garment that looks attractive on nearly everyone. It is an item that can be worn on a woman of any size, height and style. If I am to run for Prime Minister one day, I’d scratch the pins and hand out scarves.

Preppy ain't perfect.

2011-03-15T20:24:00.000-05:00

Each season carries new ideas, new trends and new looks. This year, more than ever, the “All American” composition is ideal for spring. Red, white and blue baby. Preppy is coming back, at least for a little while. It’s time to put away some of those faded, oversized shirts and bring out the constructive components of your wardrobe. In order to balance out spring’s unpredictable mess, I recommend clean cuts, bold patterns and an array of colours. Lastly, one must mix and match patterns, colours, and textures. Dressing preppy doesn’t mean dressing perfect.

The lost ones.

2011-03-08T21:53:00.002-06:00

Is it me or is the clearance clothing bin slightly depressing? I cannot help but sympathize with the innocent, mangled clothes that lay at the bottom of the bin. How did they end up there? Will anyone ever take them home? Are they doomed to an eternity of loneliness, florescent lights and tight conditions? Sure there are some items that are hopeless, but there most certainly are some gems. My point is, the next time you walk by the clearance bin just take a look. If not for me, do it for the homeless garments that lay hungry for touch at the bottom of the bin.

Fresh Coat: San Tan-Tonio

2011-03-05T09:39:00.000-06:00

This week's Fresh Coat is entitled, "San Tan-tonio," obtained from OPI's Spring/Summer 2011 Edition. This polish articulates a look that encompasses a sophisticated beachy lifestyle. It won't be the hot topic of your dinner conversation but it will still make an impression. Due to the maturity of the coat I recommend this polish for a younger crowd. A more aged hand does not carry the expression as well. Lastly, it is important to note that this polish can not only be worn in spring and summer but can be cycled throughout the year.

Set Me Free.

2011-02-28T08:41:00.004-06:00

As I aimlessly walked down the streets of downtown Toronto I felt an escalation of vulnerability. I was not certain where I was, nor where I was going. Once I had gathered my bearings, all I could dream about were compass accessories. What a brilliant way to intertwine utility and style. With an accent of aged metal and a vintage touch, what woman wouldn’t want this addition to her wardrobe? Due to the significance of such a resourceful piece, ideally, it would look best with a very simple, monochromatic ensemble. There is simply nothing more urbane than a well dressed woman who exercises her accessories as more than solely a fashion guide.