Dire Fashion

Get Your Glamour On!

2013-09-19T23:39:00.000-04:00

DVF

Alright, now that the designers of the world are finally starting to come out of their natural, minimalistic phase, we're going to continue to see great pieces that you can dress up or down. The Metallic Crocodile Embossed Print jacket from Diane Von Furstenburg is what we've been waiting for. If you're going to pull off a piece like this, I would recommend a fun, chunky cocktail right, and maybe some thin metal bangles. With these few couple of things, it will draw attention to your arms and hands, making your arm looking longer than it really is.

I feel like this piece just screams," PANTS," to me. Or a small, neutral colored skirt with leggings to match (I would say black.) Keep your heels high, your make natural looking (put down the bronzer RIGHT now...you know who you are, and make sure your hair is either framing your face, or up all together.

If you're even unsure of anything, always ask your friends for a first opinion. If you don't like, get a second opinion from yourself.

Louis Vuitton

2013-09-19T23:26:00.000-04:00

Louis Vuitton - Is this the right shoe for you?

The Louis Vuitton has always head a captive audience with their high quality leather products, and of course, shoes. I've found that LV has found a way to cater to both the 18-35 demographic, as well as an older, discerning clientele. Like many other designers, the market fawns over LV because of not only the sheer beauty of design and construction, but also because they create subtle statement pieces.

Now I'm not talking about statement pieces that would assume a LBD (Little Black Dress,) with a pair of six inch yellow pumps, and a some chain mail jewelry. I'm talking about pieces that present a quiet confidence to whomever very wisely chooses to add this item to their walk in closet.

If this is your style, proceed with caution. With someone too young, and definitely with the wrong pieces, you run the risk of looking matronly. I see sophisticated women stepping in these while going out to a special occasion dinner, or even a fun dinner party. If you've got long legs and you can find some relatively pieces to put together, go for it! Pumps are great for elongating your legs. That is, if you want them to see that way.

If you don't find yourself in the skinny lump grouping, take a look at strappy low heel, or even gladiator sandals. Always accentuate what is rocking on your body - and in turn, draw attention away from what you're not so happy with yet.

So please take these pumps to dinner, to work, or even just for a stroll through Soho to check out the shops. Just do not wear these when you are raging at a club.

Top 20 Red Carpet Moments of 2012 by EW

2012-12-30T20:49:00.000-05:00

Check out Entertainment Weekly's top 20 red carpet moments of 2012. Some were awesome, some not.

Sofia Vergara is always stunning on the red carpet.

Justin Biebs, you had a great year, but no grammy nods? Sorry about that. But maybe think twice about overalls when meeting your own Prime Minister. Or just don't ever think about overalls, ever.

Katie Holmes, welcome back!

And Tilda Swinton, you killed it. Perfect.

Check it all out here!

DF Feature - Framed Clothing Company!

2012-12-30T20:12:00.003-05:00

So here's the deal. My friend puts out cool, fun graphic tees, tops, and accessories each season. Awesome, unique pieces for styling into your wardrobe that I'm sure needs updating (when doesn't it?) Click on over there and find something - treat yourself (Parks and Rec, anyone?)

Shop Here!

Winter Jackets

2012-10-22T20:44:00.000-04:00

I've always been a huge fan with mixing high-end pieces with cheaper ones, and coats and jackets should never be in the 'cheaper' category. A jacket is an investment piece, and should be chosen carefully. Pick something that you will wear season after season; a piece that's fashion forward, but nothing trendy (I once yelled at a girl for calling me trendy on the street -oops!- but really.)

From classic, to absolutely chic, to just simply cool, there's something here for everyone. And if you can't get the look from Saks Fifth Avenue, use these designs to stay inspired when you're out in the shops! Go get 'em.

Armani Collezioni

Gucci

Helmut Lang

Robert Rodriguez

Burberry

Burberry Brit

Burberry

Burberry Brit

Cole Haan

Diane von Furstenberg

Elle Tahari

Mens Fall Knitwear 2012

2012-10-21T12:09:00.000-04:00

Gentlemen, if you haven't already, it's that time again in New York when just a jacket won't do, and you'll need some extra layers to keep you warm. Designers for the most part have stuck to the basics for mens knits this season, which is good news for you. No guess work on trends. Stick to cuts that compliment your body. Chunky knitwear hides imperfections, and thinner knits show it all.

Whether you're just replenishing or completely updating your wardrobe, here are some great garments all from basic to advanced. (Oh, and unless you're working out or doing yard work - who has a yard in the city, anyway??? - please put the hoodie away.)

All Saints Spitalfields Fall 2012

John Varvatos Fall 2012

Ben Sherman Fall 2012

SHOP THE LOOKS NOW:

http://www.us.allsaints.com

http://www.johnvarvatos.com

http://www.bensherman.com

Backstage with Mulberry - London Fashion Week

2012-09-18T19:59:00.001-04:00

London Fashion Week is in full swing, and I was pleasantly surprised when I looked at Mulberry's Spring/Summer 2013 Collection. Fun behind the scene photos on their blog!!

Zac Posen S/S RTW 2013 - (OBSESSED)

2012-09-18T19:21:00.002-04:00

Okay, I'll admit it. I haven't looked at as many collections as I would like to have. Truth be told, I haven't worked my way through NYFW. LFW? I better start hitting the pavement. I'll have to skip a few designers, but Zac Posen is one whom I could never pass up. I have always been a huge, huge fan of this brilliant designer.

Though many designers often put so much of their talents into garments that befit other bodies, that they don't take the time to look half as good as their collections, Posen is one of the great exceptions. Always in his self-made suits, he's effortlessly stylish without fail at every public appearance.

We often ask what vision a designer has? For this Spring/Summer 2013 collection, the vision is clear, and I'm not only fawning over each look, but after flipping through all of them, I want to steal the entire collection and put it around my house. His point of view is so cohesive. So centered.

There have been many great collections this season. Even many amazing. But for me, this is an awe-inspiring collection. It paints us a picture; gives us, as an audience the vision. Not every designer can, nor does that.

Check out the full collection on Elle.com

Jason Wu - S/S 2013 RTW Collection

2012-09-13T15:59:00.001-04:00

Alright ladies and gentlemen, if you don't know Jason Wu by now, get online, and Google research him from the beginning. He got his big break when he designed First Lady, Michelle Obama's Inaugural dress for the 2009 ceremony. Wu has since taken the fashion industry by storm, and he is always, always a very much anticipated designer for both myself, and the fashion community each and every season.

I've covered Wu on Dire Fashion before, and he will surely be a reoccurring on DF in the future.

Check out some of his looks below from his S/S 2013 RTW Collection. Wu has always had the great talent of knowing a woman's body, and knowing how to make her look elegant, but without all the fuss.

For all the women out there who can't afford his high-end collection pieces, look out for his new line, "Miss Wu," which will be a lower price point collection.

J. Mendel - S/S 2013 RTW Runway

2012-09-13T15:52:00.000-04:00

I can never say enough when talking about J. Mendel's collections. This fifth generation, family owned French fashion haus, headed by Gilles Mendel, is elegance and luxury incarnate. This season, stunning and elegant silhouettes that both flow and fit, are complemented by bold, floral patterns. The three piece orange floral look must be my favorite. Not only does it beg for construction and tailoring kudos, but the use of the pattern as the driving force of the look is refreshing and bold. Inspiring!

DF Feature! - OGO New York

2012-08-28T15:26:00.001-04:00

I am very proud and excited to be featuring OGO New York on DF. Personally knowing Ogo herself, I can say that the only thing more inspiring than her collection is the woman behind it. This fresh, new designer is bringing African inspired prints with modern and fun silhouettes this season; RTW pieces that will be seen from the streets of New York, to the beaches of SoCal.

Ogo originally sought out law as her career path, but later left school to realize her fashion dreams. Building a mini-empire in the corporate world, Ogo has been able to emerge in the fashion industry with a strong vision. OGO New York will be showing at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week; definitely a show to get yourself into!

Head Designer, Ogo Ekweozor

Keep up with OGO New York and how to get your hands on these must have looks! Always keep an eye out for this designer on DF!

www.ogonewyork.com

S/S COLLECTION 2013

Accessories Smash! - Holy Heels!

2012-08-09T16:43:00.001-04:00

Everyone's always drooling on the store front windows and their computer screens over what other female obsession than shoes? Here are a bunch of my favorite inspiration designs.

Ladies, if you're going with a bold animal print, like the snakeskins, remember: only one animal at a time. Roberto Cavalli may disagree, but unless you want to end up like a taxidermy shop model, I'd stick to just one. And keep everything else fairly tame. There should only be one focal point in your outfit. There's a difference on the street between someone giving you a once up and down, and being stared at like a complete idiot.

For those of you going for the bright bold colors, same rule for the prints, keep your outfit simple. You want to be attractive, not distracting. If you can throw in a subtle animal print bangle, or belt, go for it. When dealing with bold colors and prints, though, it's always best to err on the side of caution if you're just starting out. Less is more. And more is just too much.

For the classic shoes, this is your style license to just go for it! Wear these to a special event or an evening out. This is the time when you can go completely elegant with neutrals, or throw on a bright colored dress with your animal print bag slung over your shoulder.

Most importantly whenever dressing yourself: make sure the clothes fit you, and that the clothes aren't wearing you. If you have a brand new outfit on, you should get a least one compliment from a complete stranger, or at least an acquaintence that day.

Badgley Mischka Fall 2012 RTW

2012-08-09T16:05:00.000-04:00

As I was scrolling through this year's fall line of American designing duo, Badgley Mischka, I was pleasantly surprised when I saw what seems to be the furthest from traditional American style since I've known the brand. The line's variety includes Grecian gowns and futuristic looks, all which are under what seems to be an umbrella of European influence. I always enjoy seeing what these industry staple guys bring out each season.

Alexander McQueen Fall RTW 2012

2012-08-05T18:45:00.001-04:00

Every season, it's more and more obvious why the masterpieces of Alexander McQueen were showcased in the Metropolitan Museum of Art here in New York. I'm always blown away by every piece that the designers create in McQueen's name posthumously. If McQueen's aesthetic isn't for you, there's no doubting the incredible workmanship of these pieces. Always a much anticipated fall showcase.

Fall 2012 RTW Favorites! Alberta Ferretti

2012-08-05T14:23:00.000-04:00

Everyone season, Alberta Ferretti shows us a bold, yet elegant woman through her RTW line. With each bold look, Ferretti uses delicate mesh and feathers to bring a feminine touch to her statement looks. The bold purple looks speak for themselves, and only a woman with unwavering confidence would dare don one of these pieces. Looking at one of only two white looks, the below featured white coat will stand out on the winter streets whether you're in New York or Hong Kong.

Lost & Found

2012-07-30T01:55:00.001-04:00

It's been quite a while since this blog has been active. I've seemed to lost my way, but I've found my way back, and I'm now announcing my return and complete overhaul of my blog. In addition to not only previewing the season lines and my own personal fashion moments, I'm overly excited to announce that I will now be including collaborations, regular features of friends in the industry, NYC street fashion (once I get that camera!) and hopefully by the end of the year, my very own designs! Look out for cross social media, including Twitter and Facebook, so keeping up will be easy. Thanks for all the support, and leave comments, comments, and comments!

Cole Haan Love Making

2011-06-18T23:10:00.000-04:00

On my way back home from Sheep Meadow today, I irresponsibly wandered into The Shops at Columbus Circle with full intentions on buying something to satiate my need to constantly bring new and exciting things into my life. I stopped in at Cole Haan, and ended up replacing my old Coach card holder with a something a little more fashion-forward than brown leather, though the version I had in a deep brown is a classic piece. I also scored a new pair of suede oxfords, though mine are darker than what's pictured here. My growing shoe collection is up to twelve pairs, with about six pairs that I wear regularly. I'm pretty sure I need shopping rehab.

Making Love to Mac

2011-06-12T00:19:00.001-04:00

So I've finally have bought the MacBook Air. I've been talking about getting it all year, and when I went to Best Buy to pick up a wireless mouse for my PC, I said fuck it, and just got it. I've been making disgusting and inappropriate love to my new Mac all night long. I'm having a continual technological orgasm over here. I can see why people use this for the arts; the aesthetics of Macs are inspiring.

With that said, I hope to actually update regularly, now that I have something that makes it enjoyable. I'm also making this post so people know where I am when I'm M.I.A.: in my room on my Mac.

Even though the fall preview has been out for months, I hope to cover most of it this week. Get ready for actual fashion posts! And leave comments! It gives my blog more buzz on search engines!

American Fashion

2011-05-21T20:09:00.000-04:00

So apparently I've been partying since February, and I've finally slowed down enough to give my blog a little attention.

American Fashion is a comprehensive look at our nation's fashion as understood through cultural and world events that affected not only our lives as Americans, but as well as the rest of the global community. This publication details how women's fashion evolved through the 20th century, bringing us up to present time. Commissioned by the CFDA, the Council of Fashion Designers of America, American Fashion gives one insight period by period as to why the American woman is dressed the way she is today.

I've only just begun to delve into its three hundred plus pages, including full-color photographs that give necessary visuals, but I already feel like I have a better understanding of fashion as we know it here in America.

Pellegrino Meets Missoni

2011-02-05T19:16:00.001-05:00

Sorry for being completely absent for the past couple of weeks. Life has gotten crazy, and I haven't had much time or energy to blog - but I'm back!

So there was a bottle of Pellegrino at work, and I didn't even notice until I was half way done with it that San Pellegrino has partnered with Missoni to create an amazing label with the fashion house's famous print.

How wonderful is it that we can drink great water that's dressed as well as we would hope to be? Now only if we could get a bottle with a Chanel label on it...

When Life Gets Busy, Get a Moleskine Planner

2011-01-26T21:27:00.000-05:00

In the entropy that is the modern world, it's nice to have something to turn to that's not an electronic device. Now that I'm working seven days a week (including fourteen hour days,) working trade shows, running back and forth between Williamsburg and the city, and trying to fit a social life in between, I need something reliable and concrete that I can use to keep my life together. Once I have my Reade Tote in hand, my black Moleskine planner will be one of its many permanent and beloved fixutres.

There's something very sophisticated about a minimalist, well-made planner or journal. Though smart phones and computers have great calendars and planners, electronics, while on the go, can die when you need them the most. I love the concept of being able to literally pencil something in (or out) of your life's schedule.

The Moleskine original in a soft cover black is classic (and my favorite.) It's also available in an array of other colors, and is relatively inexpensive for it's quality. And don't forget a pencil (not a pen) because you never know when plans will change (don't they always seem to?)

Let's put our phones away for a minute, and save the dying art of the written word.

Spring 2011 Resort - Part 5

2011-01-26T19:23:00.000-05:00

The final installment of Spring 2011's Resort line (finally.) Oscar de la Renta & Ferragamo never cease to amaze me!

Salvatore Ferragamo Spring 2011 Resort

Oscar de la Renta Spring 2011 Resort

Roberto Cavalli Spring 2011 Resort

Valentino Spring 2011 Resort

Versace Spring 2011 Resort

Zac Posen Spring 2011 Resort

Spring 2011 Resort - Part 4

2011-01-22T20:50:00.000-05:00

The Marchesa and Marc Jacobs lines are amazing.

Lanvin Spring 2011 Resort

Louis Vuitton Spring 2011 Resort

Luca Luca Spring 2011 Resort

Marchesa Spring 2011 Resort

Marc Jacobs Spring 2011 Resort

Missoni Spring 2011 Resort

Spring 2011 Resort - Part 3

2011-01-22T18:57:00.001-05:00

I have a new found love for J. Mendel

Giorgio Armani Spring 2011 Resort

Givenchy Spring 2011 Resort

Gucci Resort Spring 2011

Jason Wu Spring 2011 Resort

J. Mendel Spring 2011 Resort

Spring 2011 Resort - Part 2

2011-01-21T21:49:00.001-05:00

DKNY Spring 2011 Resort

Donna Karan Spring 2011 Resort

Diane Von Furstenburg Spring 2011 Resort

Emilio Pucci Spring 2011 Resort

Giambattista Valli Spring 2011 Resort

Bottega Veneta Spring 2011 Resort

Badgley Mischka Spring 2011 Resort

Badgely Mischka Spring 2011 Resort