Blog # 8: Color trend

Camel is the front runner of hot hues for the Fall 2010 season. A part of the neutral color palette, camel has been transformed from a 'frumpy' or matronly hue to a stylish one. The color has manifested itself in almost every silhouette, most popularly the [extremely versatile] trench coat. The fashion industry was "re-introduced" to the color on the Fall 2010 runways; the color continues to appear on the Spring 2011 runways as well. While formerly camel has been paired with brights such as red to spice it up, this season the hue looks freshest with other neutrals like grey or black [or even denim].
I love the camel trend, its a refreshing, warm hue that makes any outfit look fashionable. While the trench is a piece that goes with merely anything, there are various other ways to make this color look now. If your not into the camel topper, there are plenty of blazers, shoes and bags out there in a caramel or camel hue.
1. For a sportier look layer denim and camel.


2. Camel with gray,

black,

or gold.

3. monochromatic Camel hues.

This season, camel went way beyond the coat, making the color suitable for everyone.

Taking the color through Spring 2011 and into Fall 2011 we will move from warm chocolate and camel shades towards a stronger contrast of mushroom rust and coffee in Fall 2011.

How to wear it: Camel for Fall 2010

Blog # 7: Runway off the runway

Designers in the fashion industry are taking a less traditional route and showcasing their new designs off the runway. This seems oxymoronic, to think that a runway show will not be on a runway. Well, it seems that designers have moved on to [much] bigger and better things. Take Alexander Wang, for example. He showed his Spring 2010 collection to the entire times square.

click here to see

Some more interesting runways include Fendi's aforementioned debut on the Great Wall of China. Lagerfeld went astray from the traditional route, very far...to the far east.
While live streaming and interesting venues are creating a buzz, the most common form of "runway off the runway" is on the web. Available to everyone, at the click of a button.
One of the more interesting 'online runways' I came across is on netaporter.com. One of my favorite e-commerce sites now features video runway shows of the most fashion forward designers. You no longer have to be a buyer, editor, or celebrity to have a front row seat at a fashion show. Now its just click and go.
click here to watch some of these videos yourself

Blog # 6: Trunk Show

What exactly is (or was) a trunk show?

A special sale in which vendors present merchandise directly to store personnel or select customers at a retail location or unique venue. It allows store personnel to preview and purchase the merchandise before it is made available to the public.

The key to scoring an invite to a trunk show? Spend a lot of money. The traditional trunk show is invititation only to the most "worthy" customers. But [perhaps because of the economic situation] this is no longer the case. As I signed on to Barney.com I was prompted with a request that read "join the list." I contemplated typing my personal information into the numerous empty boxes. After about 20 seconds I figured, why not(as if 2 daily emails from barneys isnt enough, not to mention Saks and Bloomingdales twice a day too) I wondered, what is this list. Well actually, you no longer have to be an avid spender to attend a trunk show. After giving my oh-so-precious information to Barneys New York I found that this little bit of effort has scored me access to the list of trunk shows available in the various locations!

Moving even farther away from the standard trunk show, trunk shows have recently become available online. They are no longer exclusive, nor do you have to go to the brick and mortar store. You can now preview a designer's collection from the comfort and convenience of your home.

Here's an example of a trunk show available to anyone and everyone online!

Blog # 5: Fashion Show

A creative fashion presentation? I'd say...

Bryant Park is so passé and so been there done that. Who needs New York City's tents and venues when you have a stature of cultural happening in Beijing. For the first time in history, The Great Wall of China was used as a makeshift runway. With estimated costs of nearly $10 million, Karl Lagerfeld showcased his Fendi Fall 2007 collection on the 1,500 mile wall. 88 models took to the catwalk on a restored portion of the ancient structure with a background of European trance music. "Fashion is a kind of show business too. You know, show videos play in boutiques around the world. If you just have a white wall with a girl walking out, nobody looks at it." Lagerfeld was quoted saying backstage at the show. Mr. Lagerfeld truly exudes creativity. He really raised the bar with this out-of-this world show. Should he continue to do so, where next? The pyramids of Egypt or Taj Mahal. Though we haven't seen anything of this caliber since his 2007 debut, who knows what's on tap for Lagerfeld.

Blog # 4: Key color for A/W 2011

As we all know, fashion is evolutionary not revolutionary. With the popularization of the military and olive greens in Fall 2010, green hues will continue to be an imperative color for the year of 2011. Teal and khaki greens turn to acidic and fresh greens in the upcoming Spring. For the Fall 2011 season, we move away from khakis and soft mints, emerald, and pine greens take precedence.
We see hints of these shades on the Spring 2011 runway of well renowned designers such as John Galiano, Balenciaga and Emilio Pucci. A personal favorite, green is here to stay. Its fresh and versatile. All part of the cool color family, we will see green monochromatic garb both on and off the runway.



These colors will manifest themselves in floral, tweed and plaids alike.

Blog # 3: Fashion Trend from the Street

You don't have to look much further than your local street to find inspiration for your wardrobe. It's almost impossible to walk a mere city block without seeing cargo pants. For the Fall 2010 season cargos are all over the streets. As I sauntered through SoHo, the Meat Packing district and the Upper East Side of Manhattan I have seen countless cargos in various colors and styles. Originally designed for tough outdoor activities they are now being worn in the most fashion forward, well renowned areas of New York City. They range from baggy, to slim fit and green to grey. The most predominant being the 'classic' military green with patch pockets. Cargo Pants are so versatile; dress them up with a pair of heels or make it casual chic with combat boots. This garb is perfect for a fashionista with any budget.

(from left to right: J Brand, Rich and Skinny, Phillip Lim, 7 for all man kind, Abercrombie and Fitch, Joanna Hillman street shot)

Don't know how to wear the cargo? Not a problem! Barneys will show you how.

Men, check this out.

Blog # 2: Key item for Fall 2011: Biker Jacket

bik·er jack·et: n. A short close-fitting leather jacket with front zipper, containing zips and studs. Often worn by motorcyclists, especially popular in the 1990s.

The biker jacket is essential for the Fall 2010 season. Whether you spice it up with an asymmetrical closure, of soften it up with a long fur collar this piece will complete your wardrobe. Its numerous pockets are utilitarian and trendy, allowing you to store all sorts of winter fundamentals. The biker jacket exudes edginess. It's re-introduction in the Fall 2010 season is merely the beginning of its existence in the fashion industry. Helmut Lang combined the seasons hottest textiles with the up and coming biker silhouette while Burberry embellished the jacket with zips, over-sized shearling collars, leather straps and buckle details. These styles are the first of many to come. Fall 2011 will enhance these seemingly simple silhouettes with unexpected details. Your wardrobe's staple next year will surely be a biker jacket, in some shape or form.

Elle.com shows you: How to wear a biker jacket