StyleChile

VISIT THE BRAND NEW STYLECHILE AT WWW.STYLECHILE.COM!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 15:45:00 +0000

Dear Readers—As some of you know, I've been radio silent for the past year because I was working with a team of talented designers to launch a new web home for StyleChile. Please visit StyleChile 3.0 at www.stylechile.com for fresh content, including lifestyle oriented topics such as decor, beauty, travel, food, intoxicants, emerging designers, fashion law, entertainment and fun extras. You'll notice that the new StyleChile includes a shop section where you'll be able to shop curated items that are featured in a StyleChile article.

Additionally, the new StyleChile has contributors—nine of them! Check them out here. I'm hopeful that the perspectives of the contributors, new aesthetic and improved functionality, including easy access to social media, will improve your experience. Please note that this blogspot, the second version of StyleChile, will remain live but will no longer be updated. Subscribe to the new site (which resides on the same webpage as the original StyleChile, est. circa 2001) to receive e-mail updates, by clicking here. Check out this article for additional background on this transition. Many thanks to you for your continued support over the years. Our contributors and I look forward to delivering fresh content to you on our new site! xoxo

BEYONCE + H&M

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 21 Mar 2013 15:28:00 +0000

"I've always liked H&M's focus on fun affordable fashion. I really loved the concept we collaborated on to explore the different emotions of women represented by the four elements - fire, water, earth and wind…" - Beyoncé Photo by Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin.

It looks like the rumor and speculation regarding Beyoncé’s collaboration with H&M is true! The singer will appear as the face of the Swedish retailer this Summer and, like Madonna before her, gave H&M "personal input on the pieces seen in the campaign"—so sayeth an H&M rep. This begs the question, is Beyoncé, like Madonna before her, and like her counterparts Rihanna, Gwen Stefani, Victoria Beckham, et al, prepping for the launch of her own line of clothing? *

Click read more below for the rest of the story!

According to Ann-Sofie Johansson, H&M’s Head of Design, you can look forward to “the perfect bodycon dress, as well as a flowing sun dress that makes a real statement. And of course there are the bikinis, especially the fringed bikini.”

The Queen of marketing, who’s an ace at brand collaboration and corporate tie-ins,** ensured that the ads would appear with the title: "Beyoncé as Mrs Carter in H&M". Prepare yourself for the ~~onslaught~~ campaign that will include, not only print and billboards, but also, a TV commercial, shot by Jonas Åkerlund and features a new song, Standing On The Sun, by Beyoncé herself. Some folks may doubt her, but I’m of the firm belief that Beyonce should be teaching marketing classes at HBS, Wharton or Stanford’s B-School. Maybe that’s what she’s got cooking next. You heard it here first, folks!

* Note that, while Beyoncé plays an active role in the design process at House of Deréon, Tina Knowles is the creative force behind that brand.

** See, for example, her March Vogue cover—following on the heels of her HBO special—which aired immediately after her Oprah interview—which took place following the announcement of the Mrs. Carter Show tour—which occurred like the day after her Superbowl spectacular—which came on the heels of her Inauguration performance. It’s also not lost on me that news of the H&M collaboration broke as soon as her latest song, Bow Down, hit the web.

TIBI'S VALENTINE'S DAY CAPSULE COLLECTION

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 14 Feb 2013 18:42:00 +0000

Follow my blog with Bloglovin

How're you celebrating Valentine's Day, loves? ~~Indulge in retail therapy~~ Celebrate love today and everyday in one of Tibi's signature tops, emblazoned with an unmistakable reference to love and affection.

"Valentine's Day is about celebrating love, and it doesn't necessarily have to be about a boyfriend or a girlfriend . . . it's your family, it's your friend, it's your dog. The whole world goes so fast; if these holidays can make you slow down and think about things, it's not a bad thing." - Amy Smilovic, Tibi founder.

The collection is available online here. Prices range from $90 and $265. The limited edition capsule collection even includes stationery at $14 for a set of five. Click read more below to see additional pieces from Tibi's Valentine's Day capsule collection. Click on the labels below for vintage Valentine's Day posts!

BEYONCE'S SUPERBOWL OUTFIT BY RUBIN SINGER {VIDEO}

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 06 Feb 2013 22:04:00 +0000

Beyoncé and Michelle both rocked Rubin Singer, while Kelly Rowland wore a custom Emilio Pucci bodysuit.

Loved Beyoncé's Super Bowl costume? I couldn't get enough of the ensemble and thought the strong and feminine piece was the perfect compliment to her strong and unapologetically sexy performance. The provocative iguana and python one-piece was created by Rubin Singer, the scion of a fashion designing family, who cut his teeth working for Oscar de la Renta, Bill Blass and Kai Milla, among others. Bey's outfit was inspired by Norse mythology, specifically the Valkyries, 1970's Helmut Newton and early 1990's Versace, and if you thought that was a mouthful, throw in a bit of late 1930's Germany. Meet the man behind the legendary outfit below.

Click the "read more" link below for video of Beyonce's halftime performance. Photo Credit: Timothy A. Clary/AFP/Getty Images

2013 VALENTINE'S DAY GIFT GUIDE

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 28 Jan 2013 04:56:00 +0000

1 - Ladurée macarons, order some from their New York shop; 2 - St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, $29.99 on Amazon; 3 - Fleur of England Love boudoir bra by Journelle, on sale for $54; 4 - Yves Saint Laurent Babydoll, £65.00 at Harrod's; 6 - Fashion and Art Collusion: Britain Creates book and poster boxset, $55 on net-a-porter; 7 - Fleur of England Love bow brief by Journelle, on sale for $54; 5 - Bom Bom Jewelry gold confetti garnet & amethyst ring, $205; 8 - Kate Spade Mine & Yours highball set, $50.00 at Macy's; 9 - Diptyque's limited edition Amber Oud mini candle, $32.00 on Beauty Habit

I love love and all things romantic, so it's no surprise that I love the idea of Valentine's day. Whether you're single or attached, it's an opportunity to show yourself, and the ones you love, that you care. Obviously, material items are not necessary to do so, but the occasion presents the perfect excuse to treat yourself, and/or your love, to something nice. Guys, above are a few gifts that are perfect for the fashionable woman in your life. Girls, go on and treat yourself to something nice!

HAPPY NEW YEAR + ALIYA LEEKONG INTERVIEW

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 31 Dec 2012 19:15:00 +0000

2012 was quite the year, wasn't it? How was it for you? I'm excited to start 2013 and am especially excited to build on the foundation that I've laid over the past six (really 12) years by expanding the StyleChile brand! I have a feeling that great things await us in 2013, lots of wonderful opportunities are in store. I'd love to learn about your goals for 2013. I'm a firm believer in speaking things into being, so feel free to share your aspirations for the new year in the comments section.

I can think of no better way to kick off 2013 than by sharing one of my inspirations, Aliya LeeKong, with you, in the hopes that the success she has attained in the pursuit of her passion will be encouragement for you to follow your dreams. Check out the video below for a conversation between yours truly and the culinary creative director of the Michelin starred Junoon—who also happens to be my good friend, compadre, road dog and fellow food lover—who can appreciate the finest of the fine in dining, to the local street corner fried chicken spot, to street food from far flung countries across the globe, and everything in between. What inspires you? Follow me on Pinterest to see visual representations of my inspirations!

"Let the beauty of what you love be what you do." - Rumi

Filmed by producer and artistic director extraordinaire, Tanji Gilliam, of Oil House Productions, this interview took place back in July, in advance of Aliya's August 2012 Vogue India debut. I think it's hilarious that Aliya flips the script and starts to interview me. Her questions elicited thoughts on my long-held desire to do what I love! Click read more below to see an excerpt of the Vogue India article featuring Aliya and to see more of Tanji's work: a music video for recording artist Nyticka Hemingway, the internal scenes of which were filmed in my apartment! Be sure to check out Oil House Productions, and consider them for documenting your most significant occasions, like I do.

Enjoy & Happy New Year!!!

Aliya LeeKong in Vogue India, August 2012:

Flying by Nyticka Hemingway featuring Flash, produced by Oil House Productions and filmed in my apartment:

MANUEL CANOVAS: FABRIC + WALLPAPER

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 28 Dec 2012 14:54:00 +0000

I've long aspired to be an interior decorator, and would like to share this post with you, because fashionistas like yourselves, if anything like me, are sure to have an appreciation for design that extends beyond apparel—and into the home. I love wallpaper, and am a big fan of de Gournay, but have recently become acquainted with Manuel Canovas while perusing wallpaper online. Founded in 1963, Manuel Canovas' eponymous company creates decorative wall coverings and fabrics that evinces the founder's love of botany and his long-held passion for drawing and color. Although the French fabric house was purchased by Colefax & Fowler in 1998*, the design aesthetic is still rooted in the artistic principles and tradition of its founder, and is known for its effusive use of color in its collections. Used primarily for upholstery and wallpaper, the woven, dyed and printed fabrics have come to be associated with excellence of design and luxury.

* Manuel Canovas shares the plight of another well known French designer: Hervé Léger, who like Canovas, lost the rights to his name and control of his company in 1998. The Hervé Léger brand is now owned by BCBG Max Azria and Monsieur Léger designs and sells dresses under the name Hervé L. Leroux. Similarly, Monsieur Canovas now designs luxurious fabric under another name, his wife's maiden name: Lorca.

EMERALD GREEN: PANTONE'S 2013 COLOR OF THE YEAR

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 12 Dec 2012 05:35:00 +0000

1- Willy Daro malachite and bronze lamp, 1stdibs.com; 2- Emerald cut cocktail ring, made of green onyx, $128; 3 - BCBG pave stone earrings at BCBG, $58.00; 4- Elie Saab's Spring 2012 Ready-To -Wear; 5- Brazilian green agate coasters, $68 from Rain Collection; 6- 14.35 carat emerald engagement ring flanked by 3.95 carat triangular shaped diamonds, $85,000 at Sotheby's; 7 - 1950s arm chair from 1stdibs.com; 8- Gold and malachite Rolex, 1stdibs.com; 9 - Catherine Malandrino stretch silk-blend jumpsuit available at net-a-porter, $395
It ain't easy being green. . . actually, it wont be hard for you to incorporate 2013's color of the year—the most abundant hue in nature—into your wardrobe and home. The Pantone Color Institute, a world-renowned authority on color, has released the result of its annual ~~poll of designers and brands~~ secret meeting of international color standard groups, forecasting that one of my favorite colors, emerald green (Pantone color 17-5641*), will be having a moment next year. I've been recommending malachite accents to friends and family for their homes and almost wore this stunner to my birthday celebration last week (but decided that wearing sequins three years in a row would be doing way too much). I do wear these BCBG earrings often though! This color has positive psychological connotations as well. According to Leatrice Eiseman, Excecutive Director of Pantone, emerald green is "the color of growth, renewal and prosperity — no other color conveys regeneration more than green. For centuries, many countries have chosen green to represent healing and unity." Here's to rebirth, revitalization, well-being and looking fab in 2013!

* Pantone believes that these colors are their intellectual property and cannot be used freely by others. But that belief is not supported by trademark law. Query how Pantone's position would play out in the courts following the recent decision in Louboutin v. Yves Saint Laurent, a case in which Christian Louboutin, he of the red bottom fame, challenged Yves Saint Laurent's use of the color red on soles of certain shoes. While a 2011 ruling by a Southern District Court found that the law does not support Louboutin, disallowing "recognition of a trademark for the use of a single color for fashion items", the Second Circuit Court of Appeals conferred limited trademark protection to Louboutin in "only those situations where the red lacquered outsoles contrasts in color with the adjourning 'upper' of the shoe".

NEIMAN MARCUS + TARGET + CFDA

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 01 Dec 2012 04:59:00 +0000

Every so often, a legendary partnership blooms, delighting the masses with the sheer awesomeness of their union. Not since Bonnie & Clyde, Aol Time Warner and Spam & Rice, to living legends Bey & Jay, Exxon Mobil and Mac & Cheese, have we seen a coupling quite like this one.* Behold the alliance of Target and Neiman Marcus! That’s right, Christmas came early. Thanks to the CFDA (or the Council of Fashion Designers of America for the uninitiated) for achieving its milestone 50th anniversary so that we can all celebrate in this fashion (pun intended). Check out my favorite picks from this collection in the photo below. Share your favorites in the comments section!

1. Eddie Borgo Accent Box 2. Thom Browne's Women's Blazer 3. Altuzarra Double Old Fashioned Glasses 4. Philip Crangi Frame 5. Marc Jacobs Pouches 6. A to-die-for Prabal Gurung Cape 7. Eddie Borgo Letter Opener 8. Altuzarra Tray 9. Brian Atwood Gloves 10. Tracy Reese Dessert Plates

The limited edition collection becomes available tomorrow, December 1, just in time for Holiday shopping! From the looks of it, and the price points confirm that, there’s literally something for everyone and their pets. The partnership will feature more than 50 gifts, including cookie cutters, yoga mats, blazers, skateboards, dresses and dinnerware, starting at $7.99 and capping off at $499.99. The 50 gifts were produced by 24 CFDA designers.

* This statement is not quite accurate, as we just experienced Margiela for H&M a couple of weeks ago . . . but, what’s a good blog post without some hyperbole?

Click "read more" below to see additional pictures and the list of designers. Head over to Target or Neiman Marcus for more information on, including additional pictures of, this historic collaboration!

Tracy Reese's flair for embellishment is evident in this sequined blouse she designed for the Neiman Marcus + Target collaboration.

The following CFDA designers contributed to this effort: Alice + Olivia’s Stacey Bendet, Altuzarra’s Joseph Altuzarra, Band of Outsiders’ Scott Sternberg, Brian Atwood, Carolina Herrera, Derek Lam, Diane von Furstenberg, Eddie Borgo, Jason Wu, Judith Leiber, Lela Rose, Marc Jacobs, Marchesa, Oscar de la Renta, Philip Crangi, Prabal Gurung, Proenza Schouler’s Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez, Rag & Bone’s Marcus Wainright and David Neville, Robert Rodriguez, sister’s Kate and Laura Mulleavy of Rodarte, Skaist Taylor’s (and Juicy Couture’s) Pamela Skaist-Levy and Gela Nash-Taylor, Thom Browne, Tory Burch, and Tracy Reese.

DVF SAMPLE SALE!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 28 Nov 2012 17:48:00 +0000

Fabric from Diane von Furstenberg's Spring/Summer 2012 collection.

It's that time of year again! The DVF Sample Sale is upon us. Beginning December 10th, you can enjoy up to 70% off Diane von Furstenberg's signature clothing. Click "read more" below to learn how you can access the sale. You can thank me later!

DVF Sample Sale

260 Fifth Avenue

Between 28th & 29th

Monday 10am - 7pm*

Tuesday 9am - 6:30pm

Wednesday 10am - 8pm

Thursday 10am - 7pm

Friday 9am - 3pm

New merchandise will arrive throughout the week. Shop the sample sale online at dvfsamplesale.com.

*Friends and Family

DURO OLOWU + J.C. PENNEY

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 22 Nov 2012 15:46:00 +0000

"I've always tried to give women a sense of inner beauty with joy, and now it's just the right time to make that more democratic. When I was thinking about this collection, I wanted to give American classic shapes and ideas a global flair."- Duro Olowu

We know that J.C. Penney is not doing well, posting a $55 million net loss during the first quarter of 2012. But, the retailer is hitting back, tying its survival to a reinvention strategy announced this past January. Chief among it is J.C. Penney's strategic approach to wooing a highly desired demographic: the fashionable young consumer. According to dailyfinance.com, stores will be reorganized into specialty shops; high end designer collaborations with the likes of Duro Olowu, Marchesa, Tourneau and Cynthia Rowley; and leadership by CEO Ron Johnson--who brought Apple to retail stores and is responsible for Target's strategic partnerships with fashion forward designers--are expected to turn the struggling retailer around. After digesting some competitive analysis, J.C. Penney is (finally) diving head first into the world of mass-retailer-and-hot-designer collaborations and is starting off by pairing with Nigerian-by-way-of-London designer Duro Olowu. Olowu, a former a laywer, is known as the designer responsible for bold, brash, painterly prints, a mix master of sorts, who is also the 2005 British Fashion Awards' Designer of the Year and a favorite of First Lady Michelle Obama.

Click "read more" below for additional pictures and more on Duro Olowu's capsule collection for J.C. Penney. Click the label below for vintage Style Collaborations posts!

"Working with J.C. Penney has allowed me to merge my vision of style and quality with their affordability, resulting in a line that is stylish, beautifully made and accessible. It has been an exciting experience to bring this fashion and home collection to life." - Duro Olowu

This collab begs the question: What took you so long, exactly? That's neither here nor there, really. The important thing is that the retailer is taking a calculated risk that is sure to bear fruit.

Duro Olowu for JCPenney Skinny Belt.

As mentioned, JC Penney is not content to tip its toes in tepid waters, in keeping with the head first approach, the Duro Olowu for JC Penney collection is not limited to apparel and accessories, it will also include home goods--dinner ware and decorative items--and stationary. And, in what might also be another first, Olowu himself is collaborating with peers: Bella Foster will work on prints and living fashion legend Iris Apfel will lend a hand on bags and necklaces. The Duro Olowu for JC Penney collection will become available in stores and online in Spring 2013 (March to May) and pieces will range from $10 - $100. Can't wait to see the collection live. Here's to J.C. Penney's successful reinvention!

Duro Olowu for JCPenney Clutch.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 22 Nov 2012 15:43:00 +0000

Roost's Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Butter Glaze

Happy Thanksgiving, Fashionistas! Today is a day to give thanks for all that we hold dear. Whether you express your gratitude by feasting with friends and family or volunteering to feed the needy, the common thread of this holiday is food. See below for a round up of fabulous Thanksgiving recipes from some of my favorite food and drink blogs. Happy eating!

{The Year in Food}

Thanksgiving Roast Turkey

{What Katie Ate}

Roast Loin of Pork with Apple, Apricot and Pistachio Stuffing

{Aliya LeeKong}

Cranberry Salsa

{Food Network Blog}

Honey Glazed Brussels Sprouts

{Always with Butter}

Elderflower Cake & Madeleines

{Roost}

Gluten Free Pumpkin Spice Donuts with Cinnamon Butter Glaze

{This Girl Walks Into A Bar}

Thanksgiving Vanilla Whiskey Cocktail

SPERRY TOP-SIDER® + J. CREW

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 11 Nov 2012 09:22:00 +0000

Sperry Top-Sider® for J.Crew short Shearwater boots, $138 at J. Crew online.

Invented in the ‘30s, becoming popular in the ‘70s and ‘80s, on the decline since the ‘90s, Sperry Top-Siders® are making quite the comeback in 2012. Enjoying a resurgence that began in the late 2000s--due in large part to better marketing, celebrity endorsements and strategic partnerships with fashion forward brands like Band of Outsiders, Milly, J. Crew and the Japanese brand A Bathing Ape--the quintessential preppy shoe has been updated in a myriad ways (with varying colorways and fabrics including sequins and prints) and serves as the inspiration for many a brand.* If imitation is the highest form of flattery, then the Sperry brand should take comfort in its resurrection, knowing that its legacy is firmly established and living on through collaborations like the one from J. Crew. Get your Sperry Top-Sider for J.Crew short shearling boots, depicted above, for $138 here. Click here to see additional footwear from the Sperry Top-Sider® for J.Crew collection!

-->

* Recently, I spotted this Sperry boat shoe display in a local Macy’s and, a few minutes later, came across these boat shoes--highly reminiscent of the iconic Sperry boat shoe--in Steve Madden.

ONE KINGS LANE + DESIGNER GIFT WRAP FOR CHARITY

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 10 Nov 2012 21:52:00 +0000

Just in time for the holidays! One Kings Lane and seven forward thinking influencers in the world of fashion, interior design and food (my three favorite things, not necessarily in that order) will give you an opportunity to be fabulous while being altruistic. Log on to One Kings Lane beginning next Wednesday, November 14, to access gift wrap designed by Rachel Roy, Rachel Zoe, Lela Rose, interior designer Charlotte Moss, Alice + Olivia’s Stacey Bendet, Simon Doonan and food critic, Katie Lee.

Proceeds of the sale will benefit OphanAid Africa, Save the Children, Edible Schoolyard, the Bone MarrowFoundation, Girls Who Code, Lower East Side Girls Club, and Feeding America, respectively. If ~~you've been living under a rock~~ you don't already know, OneKings Lane is a member's only website that offers time-limited sales of furniture, home decor accessories, gifts, vintage items and then some--every single day. Joining One Kings Lane is easy, use this link: https://www.onekingslane.com/invite/NakiaThomas to sign up. You can thank me later. Happy Holiday shopping to you and yours!

STEELITE GIVEAWAY WINNER

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 04 Nov 2012 12:19:00 +0000

Congratulations to Lisa Brown-Hall, the winner of StyleChile's latest giveaway: six crystal wineglasses from Rona, a century-old manufacturer of crystal stemware. Thanks to Lisa and the many others who participated by liking my Facebook page! Thanks to Steelite International America

for the glasses!

H&M CELEBRATES MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA COLLABORATION {VIDEO}

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 17:15:00 +0000

Photo courtesy of H&M

Last night H&M celebrated it's collaboration with Maison Martin Margiela at historic 5 Beekman in NYC's storied financial district. The star studded art and dance event was attended by celebrities such as Kanye West, Julianne Moore, Sarah Jessica Parker, Mena Suvari, Helena Christenson, Slema Blair, Alan Cumming and Chase Crawford. The dance was choreographed by Anne Teresa de Keersmaeker and the art installation were curated specifically for the event. I'm not sure how I'm going to cope without those plexiglass wedges in my life. . . Plotting on how I can get a pair on November 15th. Click the "read more" link below for a video of the red carpet and the theatrical presentation of the collection. Thanks to Emily at Paul Wilmot Communications for the photos and video! Click on the label below for vintage H&M and Style Collaborations posts!

LADY DIOR WEB DOCUMENTARY + MARION COTILLARD

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 13:51:00 +0000

The venerable French fashion house of Christian Dior recently released the third installment in its seven series web documentary featuring French oscar-winning actress Marion Cotillard. (I love a good run on sentence.) Episode 2, entitled Up and Up, my favorite thus far, is featured directly below.

Episode 3 features Marion wearing Dior designs from the 1940s and 1950s. She undergoes a metamorphosis, transforming from various Dior muses of times past. You'll learn design details of Dior's iconic Bar Suit, the forebear to today's peplum craze (e.g., the suit is cut to fall 40cm above the ground) and all about the Dior Bombshells. Episode 1 gives viewers a peek behind the scenes as artisans design, cut, fit and sew and Cotillard oversees in the Dior workshop.

Click on "read more" below to view Episode 1: Fantasia and Episode 3: Metamorphose. Watch this space for the next in the series.

Episode 3 - Metamorphose

Episode 1 - Fantasia

ARLENIS SOSA + H&M

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 24 Oct 2012 00:02:00 +0000

My love affair with H&M continues. Please indulge me while I share these fab photos of Arlenis Sosa modeling a selection of the retailer's Fall outfits and accessories. I came across these as I was conducting research for my latest project--more to come on that! These photos were featured in H&M's Fall 2012 trend update, photographed by Peter Gehrke, with art direction provided by Mikael Kangas. Designed with the working woman in mind, this sophisticated collection includes many of this season's trends: peplum is prominent, oxblood makes an appearance in the ruched long sleeved dress, a bedazzled Peter Pan collar is outstanding--all accessorized with chunky pumps in malachite green and a neutral taupe.

Click on the "read more" below to see more pics! Click on the labels below for vintage Style Collaborations and H&M posts!

MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA + H&M

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 17 Oct 2012 04:59:00 +0000

"The democracy of fashion has always been at the centre of our creativity, and the collaboration with H&M allows us to push this instinct further." - Maison Martin Margiela

True to form of the secretive fashion house, Maison Martin Margiela's H&M collaboration was as shrouded in mystery as the ultra discreet designer. A slow release of promotional materials culminated with the presentation of 14 pictures today, with six more photos of the collection to come next week. Described by H&M's creative adviser, Margareta van den Bosch, as "one of the most important and influential fashion houses of the past three decades", the label is known for its avant-garde creations, for embracing deconstruction early in the movement, and for playing with paradox.

At the vanguard of the fashion forward, the brand's allure is helped, in no small part, by the air of intrigue surrounding its super private founder. Never photographed, and never appearing from backstage at his shows (and corresponding with the media only via fax), Belgian born Margiela imbued his brand, not only with restrained and comfortable glamour, but with the inaccessibility and exclusivity that's associated with his persona. Nowadays, a number of new designers are at the label's helm, "focusing on young, realistic energy for the future". Nothing screams accessibility like H&M. Smart move on the part of the brand!

Maison Martin Margiela for H&M will be released on November 15th in 230 H&M stores worldwide and online. The collection will feature 45 women's garments and 20 accessories. It will also include 30 men's pieces and 15 accessories. Click read more below to see additional pictures from the collection. Click on the label below for vintage Style Collaboration posts!

Amazing wedges!

STUD MUFFIN

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 03:11:00 +0000

Lulu's "Did I Stud-her" Black Leggings, only $35!

I'm clearly well overdue for a Fashion Week post or three, but you know how it is . . . I was most inspired to post as I came across these tights again tonight. I own a pair and someone recently asked where they were from. Let me tell you, these are as much fun to wear as they look. I had the perfect opportunity to do so at Jay-Z's Made in America Festival in Philly this past Labor Day weekend. I felt like a rock star and you will too. Check out Beyonce rocking a House of Dereon pair here. This studded look was all over the Doo Ri and Emanuel Ungaro Fall 2009 runway, but the trend is still going strong. The best feature of the tights featured above is the price: only $35 at Lulu's! If you're willing to splurge, check out alternatives below. Enjoy!

Crystal Studded Leggings from TopShop, £30; Phillip Plein's Skinny Studded Legging, $514 at FarFetch; and Sass & Bide's "Atom of Chance Legging", $255 at FarFetch.

KEIJA MINOR: CONDE NAST'S FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN EDITOR-IN-CHIEF!

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sun, 30 Sep 2012 11:09:00 +0000

Many, many years ago, when I was fresh out of college and working as a legal assistant at a prestigious international law firm with offices at 4 Times Square—that beautiful behemoth designed by Fox & Fowle—I would enter the building and head to the left but, even then, I had aspirations to enter and turn right. I wanted to join the legion of well-appointed women (and men) who were taking the elevators up to Conde Nast, the named tenant of that building. Now, one sista’ who has ridden the corporate elevator up, beyond that mythical glass ceiling and right past that proverbial color barrier, gets to turn right every work day as she heads to her post as editor-in-chief of Conde Nast’s Brides magazine! Congratulations are in order for Keija Minor, the first African American Editor-in-Chief of a Conde Nast magazine, first ever in the publishing giant's 103-year history, and . . . she's a lawyer! Trained at the University of Massachusets Amherst and the historically black Howard University School of Law, Ms. Minor started making major moves after giving up her career as a corporate lawyer, to work for magazines Travel Savvy, Los Angeles Confidential, Gotham and Uptown. I'm looking forward to the impact Keija Minor will no doubt make at Brides magazine. Excellent success and the best of wishes, Keija!

INDEPENDENT FASHION BLOGGERS CONFERENCE FALL 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 14 Sep 2012 03:27:00 +0000

Where's Naki? If you look really close, you'll see me immediately to Iman's left, wearing white Madonna for H&M jeans, Sachin & Babi peplum top and Camilla Skovgaard's peeptoe heels.

I've recently joined the Independent Fashion Bloggers network, IFB for short, and attended the organization's biyearly conference during the days leading up to New York's Mercedes Benz Fashion Week for the Spring 2013 collections. The conference was such a great use of my time! In addition to gaining insight into the business behind blogging, foresight into the future of digital fashion and being challenged to bring bravery back to blogging, I was inspired by wisdom shared by the new entrepreneurs panelists and picked up additional tips on how to make friends and win readers.

And, there was more! From breakout sessions focusing on: how to get a book deal, optimizing blogs with SEO, video blogging 101, creating media kits and getting a job in social media, among others, to panels on journalism v. blogging and a Q&A session with Pinterest's community manager, Enid Hwang, I was beyond moved to blog, and network, and blog some more while struggling to maintain my composure amongst the many Valentinos, Louboutins (and fab sneaks from Bakers!), peplum and leather trends and otherwise impeccably dressed women (and a few men).

Click on the "read more" link below for more about my experience and to see additional photos. . .

Me and Iman! I took a picture with her at this event, but that one will never see the light of day! Her energy and spirit were as beautiful as her countenance.

Did I mention that the Conference's keynote addresses were delivered by Iman (who needs no descriptor) and fashion editor Derek Blasberg, who was interviewed by supermodel Coco Rocha? At this point, I might as well mention that our goodie bags were stocked with swag, including cosmetics, gift cards, magazines and snacks. The bags themselves were provided by sponsors ShopStyle, Bare Minerals cosmetics and K-mart Fashion and the after party at Soho's chic Thompson Hotel was sponsored by Stoli vodka.

Coco Rocha interviews Derek Blasberg during the first day's Keynote Address

The level of camaraderie and cooperation was unmatched. From a spontaneous lunch at Balthazar's with a complete stranger, who now feels like a new friend, to extensive conversations with seatmates, one of whom is now a Twitter buddy. I felt incredibly supported by my eager and intelligent peers and was comforted by the knowledge that we, the pioneers of this emerging industry, are collectively blazing a trail for bigger, better bloggers to come. I left the conference feeling like I belonged to a loving and unapologetically well dressed family. Can't wait for the next one!

Check out my Facebook page for photos from the conference! Like my Facebook page and you may win this! IFB has posted a number of pictures from the conference here.

ANNA DELLO RUSSO + H&M

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 11 Sep 2012 04:55:00 +0000

“There is something feisty and over the top in this collection” - Margareta van den Bosch, creative adviser for H&M.

For the first time in its history of design collaborations, H&M partnered with an influencer (and not a designer) Anna Dello Russo, the editor-at-large and creative consultant at Vogue Japan. What better person to team up with for an accessories collection? The fashion enthusiast knows that "accessorization is essential: it is the personal touch to any outfit." Together with H&M, Anna designed and carefully curated a collection of 50 pieces with prices ranging from $299 for thigh-high leather boots to $24.95 for antique inspired earrings. You too can adorn yourself in blinged out shades, bold turquoise jewelry and diamante encrusted heels!

“Accessories are like vitamins to fashion — as such, you should use them liberally” - Anna Dello Russo. Anna shows off pieces from the H&M Dello Russo collaboration in the picture above.

The collection, entitled "Fashion Shower" also includes a gilded turquoise suitcase, gold and turquoise clutches, a feather hat and alligator necklace. The designs recall the highly stylized ornamentation characteristic of the Baroque period--which is ironic because Dello Russo is celebrated for discernment and refinement in all matters of fashion and style. But, the collection is not entirely discordant. After all, Anna Dello Russo is not known for subtlety! I don't think she could have more effectively projected her exuberance for fashion in anything other than what she and H&M will be offering come October 4th. The fantastic pieces reflect the reality of an icon immersed in the alternate space that only fashion can inspire. That's why I'm looking forward to scooping up as much of her jewelery as is available!

Click "read more" below to see the entire collection and "Fashion Shower" music video directed by Alex Turvey. Producer/DJ Emiliano Pepe turns out what's sure to become a club banger, in certain circles. View vintage Style Collaborations posts by clicking the label below!

Shot in London with Anna Della Russo wearing a customized H&M ensemble and dripping in pieces from her collection, the video features an energetic Russo sharing the rules of fashion, including such gems such as "wear a coat as a dress" and "fashion is always uncomfortable". The gilded turquoise and gold set, designed by Shona Heath, echos the glitz and glamour of the collection.

Click this link to see a lookbook for the collection.

MERCEDES-BENZ FASHION WEEK: SPRING 2013 COLLECTIONS - SCHEDULE & LIVE VIDEO STREAM

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 21:53:00 +0000

Stills from Jason Wu's Spring 2013 show

New York's Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week is upon us! The Spring 2013 collections were kicked off on Wednesday, September 5th, capped off by the fourth anniversary of Fashion's Night Out the following day and will continue through September 13th. Click on this link to view a live stream of the shows and check back often for highlights. What shows are you excited to see? What trends are you anticipating? I'm particularly interested in seeing how designers will interpret black and leather--trends that are having a strong moment right now (check out Jason Wu's take here). Click "read more" below to see the full Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Schedule.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 05

5 PM: JOSEPH ABBOUD at NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY, CELESTE BARTOS FORUM
6:00 PM: 9TH ANNUAL STYLE AWARDS at STAGE

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 06

9:00 AM: NICHOLAS K at STUDIO
10:00 AM: BCBGMAXAZRIA at THEATRE
10:30-11:30 AM: KAELEN at BOX
11:00 AM: RICHARD CHAI at STAGE
1:00 PM: CHADWICK BELL at STUDIO
2:00 PM: TADASHI SHOJI at STAGE
2:30-3:30 PM: MONIKA CHIANG at BOX
3:00 PM: ARISE MAGAZINE PRESENTS: AFRICAN ICONS at THEATRE
4:00 PM: SUPIMA, KATE WILKOFF, JACKIE SIEFERT, EDUARDO CALVO, ABBEY GLASS, KYLE PEARSON, MEREDITH LYON, NATALIE YEPES, YVONNE LUONG at STUDIO
6:00-11:00 PM: FASHION'S NIGHT OUT at WORLDWIDE
7:00 PM: THE ART INSTITUTE OF NEW YORK CITY at STUDIO

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 07

8:30-10:30 AM: FASHION LAW INSTITUTE at BOX
9:00 AM: CZAR BY CESAR GALINDO at STUDIO
10:00 AM: PROJECT RUNWAY at THEATRE
10:30-11:30 AM: CONCEPT KOREA at STAGE
12:00 PM: NOON BY NOOR at STUDIO
2:00-3:30 PM: W118 BY WALTER BAKER at BOX
3:00 PM: REBECCA MINKOFF at THEATRE
3:30-5:00 PM: PAMELLA ROLAND at AVERY FISHER HALL, GRAND PROMENADE
5:30 PM: TOMMY HILFIGER at 363 W 16th St
6:00 PM: NICOLE MILLER at STUDIO
7:00-8:00PM: TODD SNYDER at BOX
7:00 PM: CHARLOTTE RONSON at STAGE
7:00 PM: ELLE FASHION | NEXT at DAVID H. KOCH THEATER
8:00 PM: ACADEMY OF ART UNIVERSITY at THEATRE
9:00 PM: PARKCHOONMOO at STUDIO

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 08

9:00 AM: RUFFIAN at STUDIO
9:30-10:30 AM: MARISSA WEBB at BOX
10:00 AM: LACOSTE at THEATRE
11:00 AM: JILL STUART at STAGE
12:00 PM: SON JUNG WAN at STUDIO
1:00-5:00 PM: MM6 MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA at 220 WEST 19TH STREET, 9TH FLOOR
1:00 PM: EDUN at 360 WEST 33RD STREET
1:00 PM: NINA SKARRA at AVERY FISHER HALL, GRAND PROMENADE
2:00 PM: MARA HOFFMAN at STAGE
2:00 PM: MARLON GOBEL at NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY, LINCOLN CENTER
2:30-3:30 PM: RAFAEL CENNAMO at BOX
3:00 PM: HERVÉ LÉGER BY MAX AZRIA at THEATRE
4:00 PM: KATYA LEONOVICH at STUDIO
6:00 PM: VLOV - QINGQING WU at STAGE
6:30-7:30 PM: CHRISTOPHER ESBER, E L L E R Y at BOX
7:00 PM: MONIQUE LHUILLIER at THEATRE
9:00 PM: VENEXIANA at STUDIO

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 09

10:30-11:30 AM: BESPOKEN at NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY, LINCOLN CENTER
11:00 AM: LELA ROSE at STUDIO
1:00 PM: DKNY at 547 WEST 26TH STREET
2:00 PM: TRACY REESE at STUDIO
2:30-4:00 PM: ERICKSON BEAMON at BOX
3:00 PM: CUSTO BARCELONA at STAGE
4:00 PM: DIANE VON FURSTENBERG at THEATRE
5:00 PM: CARMEN MARC VALVO at 575 7TH AVENUE
5:00 PM: Y-3 at 330 WEST STREET
6:00 PM: TIMO WEILAND at STUDIO
7:00 PM: ZANG TOI at STAGE
7:00 PM: ZAC POSEN at AVERY FISHER HALL, GRAND PROMENADE
7:30-8:30 PM: DAVID TLALE at BOX
8:00 PM: CHADO RALPH RUCCI at THEATRE
9:00 PM: EMERSON at STUDIO

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 10

9:00 AM: NORISOL FERRARI at STUDIO
9:30-10:30 AM: JOY CIOCI at BOX
10:00 AM: CAROLINA HERRERA at THEATRE
11:00 AM: CARLOS MIELE at STAGE
11:30AM: MARK MCNAIRY at NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY, LINCOLN CENTER
1:00 PM: FARAH ANGSANA at STUDIO
1:00 PM: MARIMEKKO at 441 WEST 14TH ST
2:00 PM: DONNA KARAN NEW YORK at 547 WEST 26TH STREET
2:30-3:30 PM: ANGEL SANCHEZ at BOX
3:00 PM: REEM ACRA at STAGE
3:30-5:00PM: GILDED AGE at NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY, LINCOLN CENTER
4:30-5:30 PM: CHRIS BENZ at AVERY FISHER HALL, GRAND PROMENADE
5:00 PM: JOANNA MASTROIANNI at STUDIO
6:30-7:30 PM: MATHIEU MIRANO at BOX

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 11

9:00 AM: TORY BURCH at AVERY FISHER HALL, GRAND PROMENADE
9:30-10:30 AM: J.CREW at STUDIO
9:30-10:30 AM: BRANDON SUN at BOX
10:00 AM: BADGLEY MISCHKA at THEATRE
11:00 AM: VERA WANG at STAGE
12:00 PM: JOHN BARTLETT at NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY, LINCOLN CENTER
1:00 PM: JENNY PACKHAM at STUDIO
1:00 PM: DIESEL BLACK GOLD at 15TH STREET @ WEST SIDE HIGHWAY
2:00 PM: NAEEM KHAN at THEATRE
2:30-3:30 PM: CANDELA at BOX
3:00 PM: OSKLEN at STAGE
5:00 PM: FALGUNI AND SHANE PEACOCK at STUDIO

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12

9:00 AM: BIBHU MOHAPATRA at STUDIO
9:30-10:30 AM: HOLMES & YANG at BOX
10:00 AM: MICHAEL KORS at THEATRE
11:00 AM: NANETTE LEPORE at STAGE
1:00 PM: RACHEL ZOE at STUDIO
2:00 PM: J. MENDEL at THEATRE
2:30-3:30 PM: FOTINI at BOX
3:00 PM: MILLY BY MICHELLE SMITH at STAGE
5:00 PM: WHITNEY EVE at STUDIO
6:00 PM: ANNA SUI at THEATRE
6:30-7:30 PM: CLOVER CANYON at BOX
7:00 PM: VIVIENNE TAM at STAGE
7:00-8:30 PM: JUICY COUTURE at JOSIE ROBERTSON PLAZA
8:00 PM: B MICHAEL AMERICA at TBA

Thursday, September 13

10:00 AM: RALPH LAUREN at 275 Hudson St.
11:00 AM: RALPH LAUREN at 275 Hudson St.
2:00 PM: CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION at 205 W. 39th St.
3:00 PM: CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION at 205 W. 39th St.
4:00 PM: CESAR GALINDO COLLECTION at 71 W. 23rd St., 18th Fl.

Photo: WWD

GIVEAWAY: STEELITE CRYSTAL STEMWARE

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 29 Aug 2012 03:21:00 +0000

Crystal stemware from Rona, pairs well with Phillippe Starck's "Ghost Chair". A lucky reader will win six wineglasses!

Hey, hey, hey! It's been a while, I know. But, I'm back and I come bearing gifts. I've been busy working, traveling, getting my head together . . . and trying to build up a social media presence. My Twitter, Pinterest, Facebook and Instagram accounts are all live and, in the case of Myspace, still kicking. These sites* serve as a complement to my blog so please follow for frequent postings and timely content. In any event, while in London recently, a chance encounter with another diner at 1707 Wine Bar, within Fortnum & Mason, yielded a box full of goodies for me and I'd love to share my windfall with one lucky reader. Turns out, the generous diner is the President of Steelite International America and I think we won him over with our love of food and wine (I'm sure having the blog doesn't hurt either)! Steelite is the world leader among manufacturers and suppliers of tableware and the company works exclusively in the hospitality and catering industry. I'd like to keep all of the glasses myself, but will pay it forward instead. I'm giving away 6 crystal wineglasses, from Rona -- a century old manufacturer of non-lead crystal stemware. Winning is easy! Simply log on to Facebook and like my page. A winner will be announced in a few weeks. Stay tuned!

* Twitter: @stylechile, Pinterest: www.pinterest.com/stylechile, Facebook: www.facebook.com/stylechile, Instagram: style_chile and Myspace: www.myspace.com/stylechile