Archive for September, 2010
Recycling Inspires Jeremy Scott’s Spring 2011 Collection
13 years ago
I think designer Jeremy Scott must have come across photos of my Halloween costume from 2009 while he was dreaming up his Spring 2011 collection. As you can see by the images below, I dressed as a hobo of sorts last year (you can tell right?). My outfit was constructed of plastic bags and paper (plus sandals and tights), and I drank my vodka straight-up in a pickle jar.
If this clever costume was not Scott’s inspiration behind his ‘basura’ themed Spring 2011 collection, I don’t know what was, because clearly my costume provoked serious inspiration. Haha.
I do think that the collection is very relevant to the global issues we face today, however, I don’t know that creating this ‘statement’ collection will help him further his credibility in the cut-throat, serious industry of fashion. The pieces themselves varied greatly on a scale of difficulty. He includes everything from your standard black trash bag to a mini dress made entirely of soda pop cans (this dress is hot). I have to say the styling was spot on and really made the presentation worth while for me.
How do you feel about the presentation?
Interview with Blogger Samantha Whelan
13 years ago
Sam has been an important part of Style Bust’s growth since April 2010 when she began as Style Bust’s first guest blogger (yes, she even started before my sister Jessi). Sam has a great eye for style, trends and writing kick-ass compelling stories, and that’s mainly why I dig her. I catch her on her personal blog called Keen Emerald City to get a little more insight into her personal life…she seems to be having a pretty good time up in Seattle. I spent some time getting to know Sam a little better and asked her the following questions.
Style Bust: How did you become interested in fashion?
I can’t remember. I think I’ve always been interested in it since my days of Barbie and Pretty Pretty Princess. My mom was a bona fide fashionista herself so i think its in my blood.
Style Bust: Describe your personal style.
That’s tricky because I feel like I am always shifting. I will tell you what most people call me (and I can’t really disagree)… hipster. I can agree with that because I like being trendy but on the alternative end. I think my look is consistently eclectic and I have a lot of urban influence. Majority of my wardrobe is second hand but that DOES NOT mean that its full of ugly ’70s get ups and cheesy 1950’s dresses. No offense to those who really dig on the whole retro thing, but it isn’t my cup of tea.
Style Bust: You have two websites right now, www.keenemeraldcity.blogspot.com and www.keenemeraldcity.tumblr.com. How did you get into blogging?
I was applying for American Apparel actually and they asked for a lookbook.nu. I was like, “what the hell is that?” and become instantly interested. I started my own style blog and lookbook.nu. I soon stopped posting to lookbook (they’re wayyy to pretentious for my taste) but I kept the blog.
Style Bust: I haven’t gotten into Lookbook, Polyvore or Chictopia, etc. because I have the same feelings..pretentious.
Style Bust: What’s your main inspiration for creating new blog entries?
My main goal is to teach other people to be great bargain shoppers. I like to show people my recent finds, how I incorporate them into my daily life, and how they can find great items at vintage and second hand shops. I like to follow current runway trends and base my search at stores around them and then show others how it all comes together. I think a lot there is a lot of misconceptions about thrift store shopping and the kind of stuff you’ll find when browsing and I want to smash those thoughts into a million smithereens.
Style Bust: Do you have advice for others who want to get into blogging?
Don’t worry if you don’t have like 4389,3492803,0934208 followers, god knows I don’t! Just have fun, have a nice mix of writing and cool pictures to look at and you’ll be good. The people will come when the time is right.
Style Bust: What is your favorite fashion blog to visit?
Besides style bust? Haha. S.t.r.u.t.t.; i love they way it is laid out, the girl who runs it is gorgeous, and its always a delight to look at.
Style Bust: Is there anything you want Style Bust readers to know about you?
As a style blogger, I like to think of myself as pretty down to earth. I just want to show the rest of the world that you don’t have to be a waif thin, raccoon eyed, super rich snob to have great style, nice clothes, and a good attitude. Its hard living in a world where you’re supposed to pretend that you don’t give a fuck what the world thinks of you when its human nature and I want others to know its OKAY to be self aware and self conscious. As Kanye says, “We’re all self conscious, I’m just the first to admit it”.
What Business Casual Styles Flatter Broad Shoulders?
13 years ago
Style Bust recently received a shopping and clothing inquiry for a particular body type. The question is as follows:
I’m shopping for business casual shirts, I am wondering if you can give me some tips for tops. My shoulders are a bit wide (a bit wider than my waist), so a lot of business casual clothes look awkward. Any advice?
Well, us ladies have it pretty good when it comes to dressing for the work place (especially the business casual workplace). Business casual can mean many different things, so when shopping, it can get a bit confusing. Business casual covers everything from trousers and a blouse, a skirt with a cardigan and sometimes even denim with a sweater (this look is especially appropriate for causal Fridays). You should use co-workers and other professionals around your age to judge how business casual your environment is. The rule of thumb is to let professionalism and comfort guide you when dressing for business casual environments.
Here are some silhouettes that work well for downplaying broad shoulders. All of these tops, if outfitted appropriately (layering) will work perfectly for business casual environments. This selection is great because it shows you that you don’t have to sacrifice style in order to look professional and disguise certain body parts!
A few pointers and tips on what to wear if you have broad shoulders:
1. You don’t have to hide your shoulders, instead you want them to look proportional to the rest of your body. A halter top is a perfect way to create a proportioned look – especially if you’ve been hitting the gym and have toned arms! You’ll need to pair a halter with a nice blazer or cardigan to pull this look off in the office. Bonus, halters serve dual purpose: a halter top on its own is the perfect night out top.
2. Plunging necklines are another great option, they draw the eye downward, showing length rather than width. Longer necklaces and silk scarves also do the trick by creating length.
3. Asymmetrical or interesting (non-traditional) necklines will also draw attention away from the shoulders and to your neck. Stay away from boat necklines and off the shoulder tops, these necklines bring attention to your shoulders.
4. When buying blazers, cardigans and jackets…keep in mind that they should be waist-length or longer. Anything shorter will make you appear very boxy, which will make your shoulders look even bigger.
5. Try a dolman or kimono style top. The wide armholes will balance out your proportions. Stay away from tops with shoulder pads, lots of shoulder detail and puffy sleeves.
To find affordable business casual clothing, check out Nordstrom, Banana Republic, Gap and Anthropologie.
Breaking All The Rules
13 years ago
We’ve all heard the old fashion rules like “brown and black don’t match” and “you can’t mix silver with gold jewelry,” but do we even know who created those guidelines? Rules are limiting and should, generally speaking, not be followed in fashion. Lately, I’ve been seeing tons of brown and black combos that I think look both effortless and chic.
In terms of accessories, try bulking up on the jewelry and don’t hesitate to sport silver and gold metal at the same time. You can easily add a funky edge to your look by layering multi-length necklaces, piling on the bangles or wearing a ring on each finger like you did in the 90’s.
(Images via Knight Cat)
Buxom – Fun and Quality Cosmetics
13 years ago
Sometimes I like to put on Rocker Chick makeup with lots of dark and intense colors in my eyes, lips and nails. In order to achieve the look I want, I put on eyeliner inside my eyelids. The only problem is that an eyeliner that does the job is not easy to find anymore. I had an Almay pencil eyeliner, which is now discontinued, and I used it until it didn’t fit in the sharpener anymore. Since then I’ve been looking for a substitute and finally found one with Buxom cosmetics, I’m talking about Buxom Insider Eyeliner.
Now with the inside eyeliner you get the same quality, it’s very smooth and creamy and stays on for a long time without smudging. Because of my look I got the color Onyx (jet black), but they also have Emerald (evergreen), Amethyst (deep violet), Pearl (tru white) and many more.
Another very cool product is a cream eyeshadow called Buxom Stay-There Eye Shadow which just glides on your lids and the different colors are very easy to combine. The names are very cute like Chihuahua (bright silver), Pug (smoky pewter), Bull Dog (intense royal blue) and many more.
Not long ago, I wrote about Buxom’s plumpling lip polishes. They work great and you do get a little addicted to that plumping fresh and tingly feeling on your lips. As as exclusive for Sephora, Buxom is offering the Buxom Chronicles: Four of a Kind collection with Dolly (muted plum), Katie (pale pink), Trixie (shimmering golden rose) and Violetta (shimmering fuschia berry).
These are very fun and quality products!
J.Crew Makes Fashion Forward Girls Clothing, Us Women Are Out Of Luck!
13 years ago
It’s sort of sad to see how fashionable J.Crews kids, aka “Crewcuts” clothing is for Fall. The girls line in particular might be more fashion forward than J.Crew’s womens line (ouch).
I work in corporate retail in the Bay Area, and there are few retailers headquarters here, so my work options are pretty limited. Even though children’s clothing isn’t exactly my thing, I’ve interviewed with Gymboree. I’ve also had friends Tea Collection and Sweet Pea – so I keep a pretty close eye on kid’s clothing. And I’m telling you, that to my knowledge no other mainstream children’s retailer appears to be as ‘on trend’ as the Fall 2010 Crewcuts collection.
I’m in my late twenties, and I would honestly turn to the Crewcuts lookbook for outfit inspiration if i was feeling uninspired. I obviously don’t own a tulle skirt, but you get my drift.
Peep her nails. Great color for the muted ensemble huh?
If I didn’t look so awkward in leggings, I’d rock them with the shorter layered shirts like this too.
Great colors for Fall 2010. The bright blue Fjallraven Kanken Backpack is adorable.
Turquoise nail polish, holla!
Powder jacket and tulle skirt, yes, only a kid can get away with this. Um, and whats up with this models poses? Open arms? I don’t link it.
Interview with Afterlife Boutique in San Francisco
13 years ago
I don’t own much jewelry. Yes I love all that sparkles and shines but when it comes to jewelry I look for pieces that look somewhat vintage, not too delicate and instead more bold. I have a few items that I rotate and it is pretty rare that I come across a piece that earns that status. Afterlife Boutique is the latest to carry jewelry that has stopped me and made me wish I could say, “I’ll take one of each please”.
Co-owned by the brother and sister duo, Danielle and Luke Teller, Afterlife opened its doors in May of 2010 in the sunny Mission district of San Francisco. Alongside their finely selected vintage attire the boutique carries the site specific line for Afterlife and Adoura Demode a redesigned vintage line, both designed by Danielle Teller.
Afterlife’s line is made up of geometric shapes, chain links and jagged lines. The angles and bold designs create an edge that is easy to pair with one of their vintage rock band shirts, while the silver materials shine just enough to make easily make an item one of your daily standout favorites.
The Adoura Demode collection has a more treasured feel. Natural shapes and weathered metals make items look like they have been passed down yet the designs are strong enough to set them apart from your grandmother’s jewelry or any specific era.
With so many vintage stores opening up in San Francisco, I wanted to know how Afterlife came into existence and the concept behind the jewelry. I asked Danielle a couple questions just to get an introduction to the store I know I’ll be forming a beautiful friendship with.
Style Bust: Who is Afterlife?
A little background about yourselves, how you got involved with vintage clothing and how long ago did you decide to set out on this mission?
My brother and I started collecting vintage clothes 6 years ago. We started selling clothes on ebay and to private dealers. We kept the majority of our rare and collectible rock concert tees in hopes of having our own store someday. After I graduated college in May 2009, I bummed around for 6 months, traveled, and gathered inspiration to start a store.
Style Bust: I think the name of your boutique is brilliant, was it hard for a brother and sister to duel this one out?
The name for the store came to me from a lecture by one of my product design professors. The lecture was about recycling. Her main point was that everything has an afterlife and that designers should design without an end in sight… something timeless. She spoke about planned obsolescence and moral responsibilities designers should have when creating a product. I was particularly interested in that lecture because I had been designing a reconstructed jewelry line; Adoura Demode.
Style Bust: Danielle you have your own jewelry line, Adoura Demode that you have labeled redesigned vintage, what made you combine the new with the old?
Adoura Demode is about mixing old and new. Taking something that has already been designed, loved, lost, and then found again reworked into something totally new and relative to today’s style and trends. I wanted to mix old and new because it makes things more unique. Instead of creating items that are mass produced, it limits the line based on what materials I can find. Certain styles are truly one of a kind. I think people want something not everybody else has, especially with something as personal as jewelry.
Style Bust: What do you consider to be the main difference between Adoura Demode and the line for Afterlife?
The Afterlife line is inspired mainly by unit construction, popular in the 1970’s, and I use a lot of Native American designs. The line has some pieces that are one of a kind, but for the most part, they can be re fabricated. The line is different both in style and materials. I use all sterling silver and both new and salvaged, the line is calculated, but still very free….
Style Bust: Your boutique also carries new items from the brand Cheap Monday, what is it about that specific brand that stood out for you?
Afterlife strives to house items that are timeless, meaning the style is not just a cheap hot fad, but more of a place items can be remembered and appreciated for years to come. I wanted to sell Cheap Monday in our store because their basics pair really well with vintage, both in style and price.
Style Bust: I had the privilege getting to see Pow! and Blasted Canyons at your store, are you going to have bands playing on a regular basis?
We try to have shows once or twice a month. So far we have had really amazing local bands such as: Ty Segal, Honey, Lilac, Pow!, and Blasted Canyons as well as Art installation by Hannah Stouffer. The shows are always a lot of fun and they really bring a sense of community to the store.
Style Bust: Anything else we can expect in the near future from Afterlife?
We are going to launch an online store in November if not sooner.
The Afterlife line and Adoura Demode are great additions to your own vintage items that you have successfully brought back to life. The boutiques carries vintage essentials like band t-shirts, leather jackets, boots, bags, western shirts, and dresses that have outlasted trends and become staples in the fashion industry and get recreated every year. The difference is that Afterlife carries original items that have been saved and chosen for their uniqueness and quality.
You can Visit Afterlife online and at:
988 Valencia Street
(between 20th Street and 21st Street)
San Francisco, CA, 94110
Adoura Demode can be seen at http://adoura.com/
What’s your take on how to wear vintage pieces without it being complete overkill and looking like a game of dress up? What is one of your own personal finds that you could never part with?
Falling for Spring 2011
13 years ago
It’s day four of New York Fashion Week and the trends for Spring 2011 seem to be getting better every day! We’re seeing twill trouser pants, long silk skirts, chiffon blouses, all in neutral tones. And for the expected pop of color, we’re seeing poppy-colored sheath dresses, printed thigh-grazing shorts, and color blocked halter dresses.
Cynthia Rowley, Peter Som, ADAM, Vena Cava (Spring 2011)
I’m loving the fact that a lot of my favorite Fall 2010 trends are back for Spring (just lightened up a bit)!
Dries Van Noten Fall 2010, Nicholas K Spring 2011
Military for Fall: try a wool pea-coat paired with cargo pants, a chunky sweater and combat boots.
Military for Spring: pair cargo pants with a neutral tank top, oversized cardigan and wedge boots.
Kimberly Ovitz Fall 2010, Nicole Miller Spring 2011
Maxi skirts for Fall: pair a long skirt with a thin sweater, cropped blazer and lace- up ankle boots.
Maxi skirts for Spring: wear your long skirt with a body-con tank, braided belt, add a light denim jacket and wedge sandals.
Prada Fall 2010, Jason Wu Spring 2011
Lady-Like Trend for Fall: pair a curve hugging dress with a wool cape, thigh-high stockings and heels.
Lady-Like Trend for Spring: try a curve hugging dress with an embellished cardigan, bare legs and an ankle boot.