new beginnings over at ABITCOQUETTISH.WORDPRESS.COM
If you haven’t tired of me here, and don’t want to miss a thing (bless your kind soul!), then do update your links, your contact info, & all that jazz, s’il vous plait because guess what?
I’ve moved!
. . .
abitcoquettish.wordpress.com
Follow on Bloglovin’!
Let’s talk! E-mail me at abitcoqettish@gmail.com
. . .
I’ll talk to you all there. Lots of love, gratitude & kisses!
Sexy librarian.
zee shoe shoppe.
Why hellooo there darlings!
Loads of planning (see posts below if you’re clueless as to what I’m referring to) – but I’m quite excited for what I have in store! This is just a quick update to show that (1) I’m not a neglectful blogger (2) I love you all oh-so-very-much (3) Yes, I’m still alive! and (4) If you follow me on Twitter, you know of my latest obsession: indulging and binging on Sex and the City. It’s absolutely magnificent. Or should I say, “abso-fucking-lutely?” À la Mr. Big, of course.
My latest endeavors (eee! I’m elated!) require some frugality – thus, I figured I’d sell these two shoes because (a) I no longer wear them/never have worn them (b) I can’t just let pretty shoes gather dust in their boxes! (c) I’m investing this money in setting up my little business endeavor(s).
The set, “Zee Shoppe,” on my Flickr has become my little, well, shoppe. Head over there for the full explanation of the rules, how this is going to work, and more [detailed] photographs.
{TOPSHOP Rue Parisian Nude Ankle Boot.}
Starting Bid | $39.99 (e-mail me at lacouturier.nyc@gmail.com)
Buy Now | $124.99
Original Price | $135.00
Shipping | $9.99 (U.S. only, excluding Alaska & Hawaii, sorry!)
For complete rules & details, click *here*
♥
{I-wish-I-were-real-YSL-Tribute Platform Heels.}
Starting Bid | $7.99 (e-mail me at lacouturier.nyc@gmail.com)
Shipping | $9.99 (U.S. only, excluding Alaska & Hawaii, sorry!)
For complete rules & details, click *here*
♥
Happy bidding, and good luck loves! (:
bisous,
La C.
boudoir beauty.
Daisy Lowe in Louis Vuitton, head to toe.
Her red carpet looks, as of late, have been t o d i e f o r .
She’s reached the ranks of style icon pour moi.
♥
bisous,
La C.
{image source: t h e f a s h i o n s p o t }
been writing and planning loads.
Thus the excessive complaints of hand cramps and insomnia (for weeks, now!) on Twitter.
The photo above was taken around 2:39 a.m., via the Macbook webcam in my [completely] dark room. 2:39 a.m. Sporting Revlon’s No. 85 “Minted” varnish with a glitter nail on zee pointer finger. It’s completely tacky, which makes it all the more rad. For two weeks straight I’ve been writing, planning, writing, planning, researching, writing planning… You get the point. I get my most productive and best work done during the wee hours of the morning whilst treating myself to a new manicure. It’s absolutely fantastical.
There’s something about the complete silence, save the consistent tip-tapping of my nails hitting the keyboard and insomniac birds outside, that makes the entire creative process flow. There’s no distraction, just you and yourself. It’s during this time that I’ve written most of my articles both here and for PLASTER. No interruptions. No rush. I love it.
I’ve finally consolidated everything into one journal: a patent, croc-embossed beauty oftentimes used as a prop when I’m not scrawling furiously in its creamy pages. At $8 from TJ Maxx, it’s one of my most precious possessions second to my [new!] Macbook Pro and vintage iPod. I used to write e v e r y w he r e : journals for daily diary entries; a notebook for philosophical/political/academic musings, notes, and essays, post-its for favorite quotes, index cards for wishlists, sketchbook for magazine clippings saved for God-knows-what, et cetera. Alas I’ve compiled the fashion and lifestyle related things into this black journal of mine (the rest are organized into a composition notebook). Though the contents are unorganized, it’s soothing to know all my ideas are in one place. Jumbled, but kept safely. In it contains wishlists, ideas, inspiration, future posts, articles, and big plans. B I G P L A N S . If you follow my Tumblr or Twitter, you’d know already. And get updates.
I’m quite excited.
♥
bisous,
La C.
P.S.: Oh dear. I somehow ended up rambling. It was supposed to be the shortest update I’ve yet written…
P.P.S.: The rose-gold Laura ring was a gift from designer Lindley Birten of Korcula. I always have it on my middle finger, as it is one of my favorite rings! I was devastated when I lost it, and now that it was recently found (in a pile of clothing…), it’s as if we’ve never parted.
P.P.P.S.: For you curious little non-pareils, the “things” sticking out of the top of my journal would be adorable William Morris Sticky Notes. I have quite the infatuation with Post-it notes of all sorts, and this set from Anthropologie satisfied my hunt for the practical yet aesthetically pleasing.
resort 2011 favorites & reviews, part IV.
Here I am, rambling away about Resort 2011 collections as Haute Couture shows go on. Fashionably late is how I do, yah know? And though haute couture makes the eyes (and mind!) ogle and boggle, I must prefer [more] wearable fashions. Just an FYI.
Erin Fetherston | I’ll be straightforward: I don’t do cute. I never have – even as a wee wittle tot – and I never will. I suppose it reflected this innate desire to be older (dearest mum and those around me always said I looked, acted, and dressed as if I were at least 20 something!). There are, however, always exceptions to the rule, and Erin Fetherston is (well, she always was) the exception. I’ve always harbored a soft spot for her designs since her collaboration with Target, admiring floaty, girlish dresses perfect for tea parties in all their ethereal prettiness.
A few collections later later, it’s clear she’s grown up. Erin Fetherston still has her original vision, only evolved into something more sophisticated. Resort 2011 was the first collection of hers I not only fell in love with, but could also picture myself wearing wanting every piece. Need I mention that this color palette reflects my wardrobe to a t? Black, white, creamy neutrals, and a touch of coral-y reds for good measure. (Okay. I confess. I don’t wear too much red, but I do on my nails every so often! It’s the color of Aries.)
Gucci | I’ve gotten some heat for this before, but I have and always will continue to maintain that Gucci and its creative directors – Frida Giannini especially – are brilliant. In terms of creative ingenuity Gucci hasn’t produced anything groundbreaking or particularly, “artistic” (read: crazy). Her strengths lie in mastery of understanding what the woman wants, what she needs, what she can wear, and what is timeless. In a sense the Gucci woman is like her DVF counterpart. Both are independent women who embrace their sensuality and femininity. And both creative directors, designers, and brands alike understand the importance of designing for the woman and less for recognition in editorials: in a sense it’s completely selfless. Gucci and DVF are two houses who know what their ideal women want. What they need. What they can wear. Etc. Gucci’s woman just so happens to be sexier, edger, and younger.
I’ll recycle a word, for there are no others to describe it but absolutely brill (hellooo, new favorite word!). Resort 2011 was brilliantly designed and styled. It was ridiculous having to edit down my assortment of saved images pre-collaging – I’d saved nearly every look on Style.com unconsciously! I’m well aware that the collection was based upon the four piece ensemble. I’m a massive fan and follower of it for it’s utter simplicity, practicality, and air of polished “put-together-ness” sans effort. Top + slim pant or short + jacket + heels. The possibilities are endless, as proven in this collection. With variations of neutral color palettes, silhouettes, and fabrics, expertly and impeccably styled, it’s impossible to ignore this collection’s marketability. I could go on, raving, but I would lose all ability in making sense. Seriously, though. THOSE SHOES. THOSE JACKETS. THOSE SKINNIES. THOSE SHORTS. If I could own every jacket showcased, I would be a very, very happy lady. Basics never looked sexier.
I suppose it goes without saying that I’m mildly head-over-heels for this Gucci’s Resort. It’s a bit more androgynous than my personal style, admittedly, but no matter. I can easily envision this in the wardrobe of a jet-setting editor or her uniform for casual days. It’s perfect, non?
Vera Wang | I adore and admire Vera Wang’s consistency. Without failing, she delivers her unadulterated vision with signature silhouettes and color palettes indifferent of the season or collection of the present. Oftentimes consistency leads to repetition, but in regards Vera Wang, it’s entirely a positive trait. There’s comfort in being allowed an element of expectation, for never could I tire of her unique aesthetic. It’s inimitable and unfounded elsewhere, those silhouettes, those richly cool shads, those accessories, that vibe. I hear Vera Wang and think not of wedding gowns, but of modern-day goddesses.
As such, I do not – cannot, rather – have a favorite Vera Wang collection. However similar, they are exceptional in their own right. Resort 2011, in all its luxuriousness, was designed for the lavish, artsy woman. Edgy meets avant-garde sophistication with cropped satin harems, open-toed ankle boots (with socks!), pleated, asymmetrical blouses, sequined jackets, straight-line dresses, and an architectural knit bustier with an exposed zipper. The palette is rich, jewel-like, regardless of each shade’s inherent cool tone. These, my dears, are my favorite colors: smoky grays and purples, slate, black, yellow-green, taupes… The icing on the top is the chandelier statement necklace. It’s incredible to see how great of difference it makes in elevating the ensemble to another state of glamour.
The most amazing attribute is and underlying hint of sensuality. Vera Wang’s interpretation of sexy is unconventional (clearly): case in point? Photograph no. 7. A non-form-ftting, pleated satin bustier paired with cropped satin harem pants are not my idea of sexy. In any which way. Yet somehow, with a touch of Vera Wang’s magic, the model looks sexy. Indcredulous? Yes. Only Vera Wang could do such a thing.
♥
bisous,
La C.
wanted | black wedges
{ images via fashiontoast, leflassh }
It’s a long and arduous search for the perfect black wedge. I’ve been on the prowl for years now, searching every shop within a 20 mile radius for the one. Four to five inches, sculptural but not too architectural, sophisticated. (Black goes without saying.) And won’t break my bank account or leave my wallet sallow and unhappy. The latter factor leaves out a good portion of options – alas, Rumi’s to-die-for Gabannas will n’er be mine. Le sigh.
I’ve always been a strictly heels kinda girl, as I used to find wedges unnecessarily chunky and junior-high-ish, but only recently have I noticed the incredible power of the wedge! It’s even more comfortable than heels (I’m hardly being sarcastic when I say that I could walk for 6+ hours straight in heels comfortably, whereas in flat shoes, my knees start to hurt and I get clumsy…). There’s less a possibility of somehow toppling over, or getting a heel stuck in grates or awkward cracks in the sidewalk. The slight chunkiness makes my ridiculously tiny feet seem more normal sized, and its greatest benefit is its tremendous ability to elongate my legs. Say bonjourrr in your most fabulous sing-song voice to tanned legs and short shorts!
And so, the expedition continues as I lust over the highly-coveted suede Dolce & Gabanna and Topshop wedges. Perhaps if my expectations weren’t so high I could have found an adequate pair already. But you know me – I never settle for less.
Which sometimes leaves me stubborn and frustrated. It is what it is.
Suggestions? Hints? Clues on where to continue my search? All are greatly appreciated!
♥
bisous,
La C.
resort 2011 favorites & reviews, part III.
Part I & Part II, available at your perusal.
Dsquared² | I’m so used to seeing Dsquared² incredibly sexed up (naughty librarians, anyone?) that I almost didn’t think Resort 2011 was the handiwork of the darling twin brothers, Dan and Dean Caten. The brand’s change in its outlook and aesthetic is a breath of fresh air, and undoubtedly perfect for summer. Nevertheless I’m crossing my fingers in the hopes that Caten² goes back to that sass we all know and love; I’ve grown fond of their signature aesthetic, especially since their “Girl Interrupted” collection.
This modern, mod-ish take on classic prep was well thought out. It’s marketable, commercial, and chic. It was clearly inspired by the jet-setting, yacht-loving ladies, and it is those ladies who will buy each piece. I loved the simple cuts and bright palette, doll-ish Peter Pan collars, blazers + crisp shirt + leather belt + bermuda trousers ensemble in summer-y hues. It was an ode to the tailored silhouettes Dsquared² and Twiggy-gone-preppy, and was on point for what Resort collections are and should be.
Diane von Furstenberg | DVF is, and will always be, the woman’s woman. Pom-pom hats may not be my thing, but I must admit, zee madame has peaked both my curiosity and interest in such accessory. Silly made sophisticated, courtesy of Diane von Furstenberg.
Is it unfair to say that this collection, this resort collection, was my favorite of all she’s ever done, fall/winter and spring/summer shows inclusive? I appreciate artistic ingenuity and subliminal messaging through wearable art, but ultimately, I fall for the designers and collections that showcase a perfect juxtaposition of marketability and wearability with creative design. It’s clear DVF has mastered that art of balance and commerciality. The appeal of the femme-inspired collection, the opposite of masculine tailoring from the previous, is especially brilliant. A Parisian noir film femme, in her black-creme based wardrobe. 100% feminine in all its coquettish glory, and so, so me. Need I say more about the mixing of graphic prints of blousons and shorts? The forties dresses? The boudoir beach-y looks? Le sigh. I’m quite literally pining over this collection, my favorites (obviously) being those I’ve collaged above, from the prints, the posh sunglasses (no pun intended), and the fact that black is clearly dominant in this collection. Black will always be the new black, and a woman can never do wrong in oversized sunnies, a trench coat, and Swiss-dot thigh-highs. It’s why French women don’t sleep alone.
Elie Tahari | My organic thoughts on the collection (upon first viewing): a bit exotic, urban, and it makes me think of Turkey. Why Turkey in particular? Not sure. Turkey evokes [in me] images and sense of rich, exotic-ethnic culture, decadent fabrics and prints, and a bit of desert cowboys (again, don’t ask why) – and this collection embodies exactly that. That may or not be true. I’m crazy, and well aware, thank you very much. I would try explaining to all you lovely people how/why my brain works, but creative processes are not only strictly confidential, but metacognition always ends with circular reasoning and even more confusion. Am I the only who thinks of Turkey when I see this collection?
But back to Elie Tahari. It was a nice collection. The only pieces that stood out to me are the first three in the above collage. It’s nothing particularly special, but both the styled ensemble and the individual pieces themselves possess a quality – that indescribable “there’s-something-about-it” I can’t quite put my finger on, that makes it covetable.
Photograph three, to the far right, is inspiring me to try the Prada turban and Posh sunnies look, à la Carrie Bradshaw. (ph. 1, 2, 3)
Elise Øverland | This isn’t a favorite collection. Regardless, I felt it necessary that Elise Øverland’s deserved a mention. The structure and silhouettes of this Resort collection are brilliant. Lapels never looked so sharp, and the contrast of such architectural jacket against breezier, floor-grazing skirts modernized her Pakistani getaway inspiration. (ph. 4, 5, 6)
♥
bisous,
La C.
P.S.: Only two more parts, my dears. Only two.
resort 2011 favorites & reviews, part II.
{ click on collage to enlarge! }
Burberry Prorsum | I’m a massive fan of Burberry Prorsum since Christopher Bailey’s induction as the chief creative director. I may or may not be biased – the decision’s yours – for not only are Burberry trench coats a must-have (and the most beautiful thing ever!), but Mr. Bailey, British accent and all, is incredibly cute. I do love how Burberry has evolved under Bailey, and how Bailey has consummated his vision of British, edgy glamour in a luxury brand.
Burberry Prorsum’s Resort collection was, in my book, the best styled. Without a doubt. Burberry may not always produce the wearable ensembles when taken as a whole, but it is always aesthetically pleasing regardless of the collection season. Impeccable is the word to describe 2011 Resort; from color palette, to layering, to the individual pieces, everything was p e r f e c t . This is perhaps one in few collections showcased where pieces can be worn individually or incestuously sans the tackiness and fashion-victim-look. I do predict an massive fan base given its marketability, particularly with New Yorkers come late summer/fall. Each piece is beautifully constructed and versatile, translating easily into any wardrobe regardless of season. For example, the jacket in photo six. Super slim, super chic, super sexy. ‘Tis a beauty I’d wear anytime, anywhere from day to night.
Now if I so happened to be a fashion editor with an unfathomable bank account/money tree, I would, without a doubt, buy every ensemble I’ve collaged above. I picture the muse of this collection to be that editor-in-chief. A younger Miranda Priestly or Carine Roitfeld whom a million girls would kill to work for (and be!). Edgy, sexy, chic, both in style and personality, and dressed to kill.
{ click on collage to enlarge! }
Chanel | I like how increasingly blasé Chanel has become. I’m surprised at how relaxed this resort collection was – breezy kaftans, bare feet, denim, and tousled hair. Definitely a huge hit with consumers with its marketability and wearability for yachts, beaches, and cruise ships all alike. My favorites are featured above (ph. 1-4). The maxi, printed kaftan Natasha opened with was simply stunning. I never pictured a semi-sheer floral shirt to be attractive on a man, but oh, it is indeed. It’s quite sexy, actually. The third is the perfect summer ensemble, though nothing too special or unique to Chanel: sheer blouse, white pants, and a fedora. And that bathing suit and bejeweled foot adornment; it’s the epitome of Chanel luxury. Now the question is: are Chanel’s foot chains the next body chains? Hm… (ph. 1, 2, 3, 4)
Donna Karan | Languid, liquid assets fit for the sensual Greek goddesses of modern times. It’s undeniably a beautiful collection, but nothing noteworthy in comparison to her spring collections. (Don’t get me wrong: I love, and appreciate, a designer with a consistent aesthetic and vision.) The white, slate blue-gray, and black color palette was lovely in variations of Donna Karan’s signature silhouettes. Goddess dresses were done in every which way combination of the deeply cowled, one-shouldered, open-slit paragon. Satin jersey or liquid lamé, knee-length or floor-length. All are red carpet worthy (it’s simply a matter of who wears which piece first!). And that black jumpsuit (ph. 7)! I do believe Donna Karan’s perfected the art of the jumpsuit. Le sigh. It is the epitome of what DK stands for: all woman, sophisticated, sensual, with the slightest touch androgyny. (ph. 5, 6, 7)
Doo.Ri | For me, Doo.Ri has always been either brilliant or bland. Resort 2011 was one of those brilliant ones whose concept centered about the juxtaposition of draping and structure, and silhouette was lean and straight. The asymmetrical neckline and draping were key elements, used repetitively in nearly every blouse without seeming overused. Each rendition was equally beautiful whether in dress form or a blouse paired with staple pants or bubble skirts. To counter the signature, structural draping, the tuxedo blazer with mesh at the lapels (genius!) added a touch of masculinity for that target goal of balance. (ph. 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
♥
bisous,
La C.
P.S.: Part III (and perhaps a IV?) coming, toute de suite. Ish.
Why hellooo, lovelies! Fancy seeing you here.
PLASTER‘s July 2010 issue has just come out, and it’s quite rad. I may be biased because I so happen to be their fashion editorial intern (check it out, that would be my name in the masthead!), but that aside, take one look at their cover and you know it’s some fantastic ish. Magenta lips and gray smoky eyes are revolutionary for summer. Mmmhm.
{ the July 2010 cover & masthead }
I had first gushed about up-and-coming New York designer Kimberly Taylor here, then on PLASTER’s blog. It’s unnecessary for me to recapitulate every reason why I love her collections and why every chic woman needs more than a few hangers full of Kimberly Taylor; I’m well aware of my inability to briefly summarize as I do manage to get carried way. Every time. Long story short: it was an honor and privilege to have been given the chance to interview KT herself!
I thoroughly enjoyed [trying] to come up with questions for the interview, but loved even more being able to read KT’s answers. Pages 45 to 46, darlings. It’s evident, through her blog (bookmark it, s’il vous plaît, and not just because I already have) and her designs that she’s an incredibly chic woman. This interview only solidified that, and to top it off, she’s so sweet.
the interview: taylor made
What is your design philosophy?
Less is more.
Do you have a particular inspiration and/or muse?
I’m particularly inspired by New York City – you can never look too sleek here. Even when I travel I feel like its evident that I’m from New York.
Can you describe the woman you have in mind as you design?
She’s very busy. She’s no nonsense or frills. She’s cutting edge. And she isn’t trying too hard.
Who is your dream [celebrity] client?
Victoria Beckham.
What do you consider to be your best quality?
That I’m a dreamer.
Your worst quality?
Too trusting. I really try to see the good in people.
What is the one thing you can’t live without?
My purse. It’s pretty much my lifeline – it has everything I would need in any given scenario.
Name your every-woman-must-have, classic piece.
A little black cocktail dress. It’s cliché for a reason – It can take you anywhere. I’ve been living in our Sasha dress.
What’s in your bag right now?
Keys, Blackberry, 4 lipsticks , wallet, fabric swatches for Resort 2011, vintage clip – on earrings in case I go out tonight, a magazine page I secretly ripped out at the nail salon, a pen, a random piece of fashion tape, a lollipop (emergency sugar rush), a bobby pin, and Altoids.
What are you wearing right now?
Black Amy trousers from my collection, rolled up at the bottom, a navy and white striped t-shirt, 6″ black patent leather and gold t-strap heels, a leather jacket.
What’s your guilty pleasure?
Diet Coke, reality TV and all things Louboutin.
Who is your celebrity crush?
James Franco
What is your no-fail item (not just limited to fashion/beauty!) that makes you feel fabulous even at your worst?
Shoes, they always fit!
Who is your favorite designer besides yourself?
Nicolas Ghesquiere
Describe your personal signature look.
My signature look definitely consists of black and white. Black jeans, white tee and a blazer or leather jacket. I wear my hair slicked back in a ponytail a lot – most people know that about me.
Describe the most embarrassing outfit you’ve ever worn.
It’s hard to tell. I’m pretty sure it involved sequins though.
What is your favorite trend at the moment?
Menswear! Its so chic when done right.
What is the worst trend of all time?
Babydoll dresses. There was a point where you couldn’t find anything body-conscious in the Continental US.
What is your favorite/signature perfume or scent?
Trish McEvoy #9 Blackberry Vanilla Musk.
Where is your favorite place to go out in New York?
The Jane Hotel.
Can you describe your favorite outfit for a night-out?
Anything black. This is New York!
What was your first splurge?
A baby pink Chanel wallet on a chain. I worked an entire summer to pay for it and quit the day I bought it. I still have it.
Who is on your playlist right now?
Passion Pitt, Lady Gaga, Phoenix, Rihanna, Rod Stewart, and Jay-Z
Always…
…follow your heart.
Never…
…kiss and tell!
♥
Wait. Did I mention that both KT & her PR exec. Marina are s t u n n i n g ? Oh, just did.
Kimberly Taylor | www.kimbertaylor.com
KT’s faaabulous blog | www.kimberlytaylorblog.com
KT’s Twitter (which is equally fab) | www.twitter.com/KIMBERLYTAYLOR1
Marina’s Twitter | www.twitter.com/MarinaKhoroch
bisous,
La C.
resort 2011 favorites & reviews, part I.
I’ll have you know that I’m quite content tip-tapping away on my brand new Macbook Pro. More than content, actually. I’m positively elated. It’s the most beautiful thing my eyes have yet beheld (clothing, handbags, and rings exclusive), and every time I flip it open, I marvel at its utter perfection and unbelievable graphics. Say hello to my new baby. It’s now my most prized possession (clothing, handbags, and rings inclusive). Le sigh. Such fancy, shiny, silver, new technological thingies require fancy posts. Resort collections 2011 it is!
In the lovely blogosphere de mode, the relevance and importance of Resort collections is questionable. Understandably too; whereas the bi-annual RTW collections showcase the designer’s true craftsmanship tell a story – hidden, interwoven, and delicate – resort wear serves little purpose (i.m.o.) in displaying creative ingenuity and conveying a personal message from designer to buyer. Its sole objective – commercial success – suggest that entire collections are designed for marketability. Aesthetic appeal is of highest priority, rendering resort wear easy (and fun!) to review. As much as I love scrutinizing every detail and analyzing fashion for what it’s worth – and beyond – I do believe Resort collections deserve a bit more press (read: on zee blogs) than the usual little to none they receive. Not to mention, I was especially impressed by 2011’s collections. Definitely the best yet.
{ click the collage to enlarge! }
3.1 Phillip Lim | The collection consisted entirely of earthy tones – creams, olive greens, pale browns, and peachy salmons – colors with potential to be quite mucky and aging. With Bianca Jagger as the muse, however, a certain edge is given to otherwise bland colors. Tailored, double-breasted suits, cropped, silk kimonos, and jumpsuits gave new life to the aforementioned colors (or vice versa). It does take a brave woman, or a die-hard fan of Ms. Jagger, to appreciate and translate these pieces into her wardrobe, but there are a few wearable ensembles/pieces. I sort of love the olive-y mint green leather jacket paired with white. It’s a lovely combination that isn’t as stark of a contrast as the usual black-jacket-white-shirt. And that romper. Part sweet, part badass. For the Amelia Earhart sans aviation goggles and paired with good old Tribs. (ph. 1, 3, 10)
Akris | I’ll be honest. I haven’t heard of Akris (gasp!), or of Albert Kriemier (the designer). Akris’ Resort collection was easily the most commercial (or bland, take your pick), thus epitomizing the point of pre-collections. Regardless, I did love the high-waisted, wide-legged white pants and the focus upon collars (lapels, turnovers, mandarin). Definitely beautiful for a day spent at a yacht club for the über-chic ladies. (ph. 2, 7)
Alberta Ferretti | Northern Africa, specifically Marrakech, was the main inspiration behind Ferretti’s collection. It’s no surprise that every piece, even in such laid-back a collection, is decadent; every collection of Ferretti’s is. Kaftans with metallic embroidery, silk shirts tucked into loose khaki trousers, and goddess dresses are made for the mature, A-list woman’s exotic getaways. Rich fabrics and colors added depth and dimension, distinguishing (and trademarking) Alberta Ferretti from the summer-y norm of other resort collections. I’d love to see Michelle Obama in each ensemble, in particular the white goddess dress. She’d look like a dream. (ph. 4, 6)
Badgley Mischka | Another luxurious resort collection, designed, again, for the A-list woman. The target market is younger – I’d say late 20’s to early 30’s – for independent, successful powerhouse women who’ve made their own. Or an uptown, New York socialite. Either way she’s fabulous, and expects no less from herself when attending numerous galas and summer soirées in European cities. The cream dresses with gilded gold are exceptionally stunning. Loved the Belle Époque-styled bustled skirt and overall references to a past of opulence. Borderline ostentatious, undeniably lavish, but wholly extravagant in the best way possible. (ph. 8, 9, 11)
Celine | As always, one of the standards (besides Calvin Klein) for what truly is minimalist chic. Fantastic, fantastic jumpsuits, high-waisted pants, tunic, and A-line skirts/dresses with a hint of structure and utility. However, the lean, boxy silhouette of the tunic and pants combination is perhaps difficult to pull off without the willow-y model figure. Regardless, the color palette – black and white plus the primary colors – in addition to the simple silhouettes showed the minimalism at its best. Celine’s always a breath of fresh air from the fussiness of layering and accessorizing. Let’s forget the clothes for one moment, though. The bags. A new, larger one has been added to the iconic family along with exotic skins and neon colors. Ah, Celine, you can never do wrong with handbags… (ph. 5, 12)
♥
bisous,
La C.
goodbye high school, hellooo world!
{ image source: t u m b l r }
I’m officially a high school graduate, as of Thursday, June 24, 2010. Graduated with four honors, ooh, yeah. I’m quite the nerd, and proud.
I’m also one of the few that didn’t cry; perhaps the finality of leaving this place of familiarity hasn’t yet hit me. It’s not that I’m coldhearted and incapable of feeling – it’s that I don’t see any rationale in crying over the have-beens. I recognize, appreciate, and cherish the past for what it’s worth. Most of my greatest memories (and I say that as if I’ve been alive for a century) happened during my high school years. Will I miss the familiarity? Perhaps. Will I miss being able to see my closest girlfriends nearly every day? Of course. Tears shed would only be in vain; the past can’t be re-lived, and dwelling upon emotions of nostalgia prevent yourself from moving forward. Life’s about progression. One chapter has been written, and closed. The next is but a blank canvas waiting to be written.
I’m ready though, ready for the next step. The first big milestone of my life has been checked off, so it’s on to the next. I’m ready to take on the world (uni, a.k.a. the faux-real world), lipstick, heels, coffee, and all. I’ve always lived for the present and the future. High school’s done. I’m happy I had a fantastic four years and found my closest friends there. But more importantly, I’m excited for the will-be‘s and the future that awaits.
Class of 2010, thanks for the memories. (:
♥
bisous,
La C.
P.S. I’ve extended the deadline for my giveaway collaboration with Shopbop.com; you now have until June 30th to enter to win a $100 giftcard! Pourquoi? Because I’m quite the generous soul. Not really. But I’m quite busy since the next few days are booked with celebratory events (woohoo!). I’ve already been dancing for two consecutive nights, nonstop. This is the life.
la couturier 
