Though some of us have already reached 2012, many of us are anxiously awaiting the New Year. This turning point represents a fresh start. I'm sure you're familiar with the idea of making New Year's Resolutions; it's a wonderful tradition that supports and motivates people to make new goals and stick to them and to make important changes in their lives. It's difficult to remember the list you made throughout the year, but these ideas will always be lurking in the back of your mind, pushing you to be a better and happier person.
I, like most others, will be making my own set of resolutions tonight, but in the meantime I thought I would also compile a list of Fashion Resolutions - the title is self-explanatory.
1. I will work hard on Girl Loves Color, improving my blogging skills and making the site even better. I want to continue blogging regularly throughout 2012, even more often than I have in 2011. I will continue to be innovative and true to myself on my blog.
2. I will limit my shopping ventures to items I really need and will wear often. I will save splurges for special occasions and for the rare item that really calls to me. I will continue to colorize my wardrobe.
3. I will put together my outfits with care, but I will not second-guess my instincts when walking out of the house. I will be confident in my clothing.
4. I will regularly go through my collection of garments, accessories, and shoes and determine what I rarely wear. I will donate these items or give them to friends.
5. I will be innovative in the use of my fashion-related possessions, wearing things in different ways to maximize my options, so I don't have to buy so many new things.
6. I will continue to add dashes of color into every outfit, and I will encourage others to do the same.
What are your New Year's resolutions? What are your Fashion Resolutions? If you have any of the latter - or even none at all - I encourage you to add my #6 to your list. After all, a little color always cheers up any outfit.
I wish you a happy and healthy New Year and all the best for you, your family, and your friends.
xoxo
December 31, 2011
December 27, 2011
The Color Collector
Today I was browsing through the Stylecaster website, a lovely community where you can find insightful articles related to fashion, beauty, and lifestyle, as well as upload your outfits and ask for style advice. The site also has a number of fashion editorials created exclusively by and for Stylecaster. It was this section that I was most interested in; the editorials are beautifully done. Of course, I was most inspired by the brightness of "The Color Collector," an editorial that is quite true to its name. I thought today I would do a simple blog post as the holiday season is winding down, just a little something to keep you inspired. I hope you enjoy.
Images from stylecaster.com
Please check out the Stylecaster website here.
For more editorials, click here.
Let me know what you think of this editorial and the Stylecaster website with a comment. I'd love to hear your thoughts.
xoxo
December 22, 2011
Three Ways: The Little Black Dress
The holiday season has been upon us for a while, so I thought it would only be appropriate to do a helpful holiday-themed blog post. As I'm writing these words, I'm assuming that you have been invited to a number of holiday parties. Whether for Christmas, Hanukkah, New Year's, or whatever else you may be celebrating, I imagine that styling outfits for this variety of events can be stressful. If you're like me, you'll also want to add color to your respective ensembles, which can be a difficult task. Don't worry, I'm here to help. The solution is simple; every woman owns a little black dress (LBD). Work off of that, and you can create a stunning outfit that'll wow every pair of eyes in the room.
This is a different kind of three ways post, but I hope it proves just as useful.
By Malene Birger dress
ASOS envelope clutch, BCBG pumps, Erickson Beamon necklace.
Why this outfit works: A bright clutch adds the dash of color a black dress needs. A statement necklace is the perfect amount of jewelry required and the colors of the jewels complement the clutch. Neutral heels that aren't solid black keep the attention on the clutch and necklace.
ASOS clutch, Christian Louboutin pumps, BCBGeneration earrings.
Why this outfit works: Neutral accessories with some sparkle give the outfit some holiday cheer. Rose gold complements the rich magenta hue of the pumps.
Lulu Townsend clutch, Nicholas Kirkwood pumps, Assad Mounser necklace.
Why this outfit works: A bright necklace serves as the color source for the outfit, as well as inspiring the hue of the shoes. A gray clutch doesn't attract much attention but looks sophisticated with the blue-green palette.
Which of these outfits are your favorite? What are you wearing to your holiday parties? I'd love to see your comments.
xoxo
This is a different kind of three ways post, but I hope it proves just as useful.
By Malene Birger dress
ASOS envelope clutch, BCBG pumps, Erickson Beamon necklace.
Why this outfit works: A bright clutch adds the dash of color a black dress needs. A statement necklace is the perfect amount of jewelry required and the colors of the jewels complement the clutch. Neutral heels that aren't solid black keep the attention on the clutch and necklace.
ASOS clutch, Christian Louboutin pumps, BCBGeneration earrings.
Why this outfit works: Neutral accessories with some sparkle give the outfit some holiday cheer. Rose gold complements the rich magenta hue of the pumps.
Lulu Townsend clutch, Nicholas Kirkwood pumps, Assad Mounser necklace.
Why this outfit works: A bright necklace serves as the color source for the outfit, as well as inspiring the hue of the shoes. A gray clutch doesn't attract much attention but looks sophisticated with the blue-green palette.
Which of these outfits are your favorite? What are you wearing to your holiday parties? I'd love to see your comments.
xoxo
December 19, 2011
Baby, It's Cold Outside
I was on the search for a winter coat for a long time. This is a struggle for petites like me, who often face the issues of coat sizing. Many of the coats I have tried on in my journey are way too long: they hit at right above the knee, which wouldn't be a problem except for the fact that it diminishes my height further by cutting off my legs. Nor do I want a coat that is so cropped it can barely keep my warm; this obviously defeats the purpose (though this form of outerwear is quite stylish and flattering on me). I also need a coat that is fitted without being too small to accommodate layers of knitwear. As you can see, I have many guidelines. I'm quite picky when it comes to outerwear (unless, of course, said outerwear is a fantastic leather jacket). I'm proud to say that I finally found the perfect specimen: a toggle coat that hits me a little above mid-thigh. The coat is lined with a beautiful blue-green plaid and consists of good quality materials. Only one problem: the coat is black.
Black? But, Maya, you love color! That's why you named your blog "Girl Loves Color." You're such a hypocrite!
Well, I usually get quite annoyed when I have to don my winter coat for an adventure outside, as often said coat is a puffy marshmallow of down. This coat is different; I enjoy wearing it. Yet I still felt incomplete when I put on my jeans and black combat boots, covering any trace of color with my black coat. I would go outside and not quite feel like myself.
The dilemma was resolved when I visited the fantastic consignment store Tokio 7 in the East Village on Sunday. The store sells high-end brands such as Marc Jacobs, Prada, Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton. Though some fakes have been spotted at the store (be careful if you go!), the selection is overall quite fabulous. The shop has a fantastic selection of Louboutin shoes, tons of cashmere sweaters, and a variety of unique yet wearable designer dresses. Most appropriate for this weather, however, is the huge amount of outerwear available (both mens' and womens'). I was casually browsing this section when I stumbled upon a hidden gem: a bright purple DVF coat exactly my size. The price was probably 40-60% off of what it must have been originally. And the coat was brand new - the tags were still on and the pockets still sewn closed. I couldn't believe it when I tried it on and the coat fit me perfectly. I knew I had to get it.
Today was my first day taking my colorful new coat out for a spin. I was happy in a way that no piece of outerwear had ever made me feel before. I felt like Girl Loves Color again.
Black? But, Maya, you love color! That's why you named your blog "Girl Loves Color." You're such a hypocrite!
Well, I usually get quite annoyed when I have to don my winter coat for an adventure outside, as often said coat is a puffy marshmallow of down. This coat is different; I enjoy wearing it. Yet I still felt incomplete when I put on my jeans and black combat boots, covering any trace of color with my black coat. I would go outside and not quite feel like myself.
The dilemma was resolved when I visited the fantastic consignment store Tokio 7 in the East Village on Sunday. The store sells high-end brands such as Marc Jacobs, Prada, Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton. Though some fakes have been spotted at the store (be careful if you go!), the selection is overall quite fabulous. The shop has a fantastic selection of Louboutin shoes, tons of cashmere sweaters, and a variety of unique yet wearable designer dresses. Most appropriate for this weather, however, is the huge amount of outerwear available (both mens' and womens'). I was casually browsing this section when I stumbled upon a hidden gem: a bright purple DVF coat exactly my size. The price was probably 40-60% off of what it must have been originally. And the coat was brand new - the tags were still on and the pockets still sewn closed. I couldn't believe it when I tried it on and the coat fit me perfectly. I knew I had to get it.
Today was my first day taking my colorful new coat out for a spin. I was happy in a way that no piece of outerwear had ever made me feel before. I felt like Girl Loves Color again.
Diane von Furstenberg coat, Un Deux Trois top (worn underneath), American Apparel black leggings, Free People socks, combat boots from TJ Maxx, Coton Deux scarf, vintage bag.
The coat also comes with a matching purple belt, gold clips on the ends, but I chose not to wear it today. I think the coat looks pretty great on its own.
What do you think of my new find? Tell me about your winter coat(s)! I'd love to read your comments.
xoxo
December 18, 2011
Frieda and Nellie
Frieda and Nellie is a jewelry line founded and designed by Stacy Herzog and Sarah Reid. The pieces are inspired by a friendship bracelet foundation, reminiscent of those Herzog and Reid used to make back in their days at summer camp as children. The duo, who met while working in the fashion industry in NYC, began to create colorful friendship bracelets by hand. Working off this idea, they began to add vintage pieces from their grandmothers' jewelry collections (the two of whom the line was named after) to create a contrast of new and old. Today the brand works off of the mantra "Reuse, repurpose, reinvent." When a reporter from Women's Wear Daily stopped the two on the street to compliment their unusual accessories, things took off after they were featured in the newspaper as up-and-coming designers. Herzog and Reid consequently quit their day jobs to focus on their new project, scouring flea markets and vintage shops for pieces that reminded them of their grandmothers' treasures. Today, Frieda and Nellie pieces continue to be handmade in New York City, making each piece a one-of-a-kind labor of love.
Images from friedaandnellie.com
Still looking for that perfect holiday present for a friend or family member? Consider a piece of Frieda and Nellie jewelry. The line offers necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and hair accessories. Each design is a unique combination of vintage and new, making for a special present that will be treasured for years.
You can shop online at friedaandnellie.com. A list of store locations where the line is sold can be found here.
What do you think of this jewelry line? What is your favorite piece out of the ones depicted in this post? Let me know with a comment!
xoxo
December 11, 2011
Inspired by: Dazed & Confused
I've long heard of the magazine Dazed & Confused, a British publication that has created its own subculture consisting of independent and influential articles and editorials inspired by only the most intriguing forms of artistry, fashion, and music. The magazine could truly be referred to as a collection of the next big things, representing these rising artists in an honest, down-to-earth manner. Those featured in the magazine are truly passionate about their work, which portrays a rawness and creativity that is rarely seen in today's culture that is dominated by the top names. Similarly, the editorials are original with a focus on beautiful, artistic images that complement the featured fashions. The two editorials in the December 2011 issue of Dazed are what urged me to buy the issue, in fact, entitled "Graffiti Dreams" and "Quirked Out." As with many, I'm sure, the editorials are the highlight of a magazine that contains fashion-related work, and one can often interpret the vibe of a publication from its editorials. Dazed's editorials speak to an audience that is interested in getting down to the core of what these images are supposed to be: inspiring, and certainly many of the photographs have stayed with me long after I put the issue away. Because a fashion editorial is not just about the fashion; it is a work of art in its own right, not just a mechanism used to sell us consumers these fashions.
The editorials contained in Dazed's December 2011 issue were unlike many of the editorials I've seen before. The images feel raw and edgy, high fashion depicted as art rather than objects with a hefty price tag that make women whip out their wallets. Though the editorials are reminiscent of many in NYLON in that the vibe is directly opposite of mainstream, they are still quite different than any other editorials. Thus I decided to let the latter editorial, "Quirked Out," guide me for this blog post.
H&M cardigan, Rare pleated dress, Jessica Simpson heels, Gucci scarf.
Channel the retro femininity of the editorial with a button-up cardigan in a bright color combined with a pleated dress and a silk scarf tied around the neck. Platform heels add modern sexiness.
Balmain biker jacket, Emily & Fin vintage-inspired dress, Yves Saint Laurent heels, Topshop scarf.
Dolce & Gabbana floral coat, Vanessa Bruno shirtdress, Elie Saab t-strap heels, Gucci scarf.
A printed coat feels naturally retro, but a shirtdress and sophisticated t-strap heels update the look. A silk scarf feels feminine and timeless.
The rest of the editorial:
The editorials contained in Dazed's December 2011 issue were unlike many of the editorials I've seen before. The images feel raw and edgy, high fashion depicted as art rather than objects with a hefty price tag that make women whip out their wallets. Though the editorials are reminiscent of many in NYLON in that the vibe is directly opposite of mainstream, they are still quite different than any other editorials. Thus I decided to let the latter editorial, "Quirked Out," guide me for this blog post.
H&M cardigan, Rare pleated dress, Jessica Simpson heels, Gucci scarf.
Balmain biker jacket, Emily & Fin vintage-inspired dress, Yves Saint Laurent heels, Topshop scarf.
This ensemble combines vintage influences and modern pieces to create a retro ensemble that is still wearable in our day and age. The red heels add a pop of color.
Dolce & Gabbana floral coat, Vanessa Bruno shirtdress, Elie Saab t-strap heels, Gucci scarf.
A printed coat feels naturally retro, but a shirtdress and sophisticated t-strap heels update the look. A silk scarf feels feminine and timeless.
The rest of the editorial:
Images from space1520.com
The entirety of this editorial is composed of Prada garments and accessories. What do you think of the collection combined with the vibe of the editorial? Do you have a favorite fashion editorial? Let me know with a comment!
xoxo
December 09, 2011
Leutton Postle
Sam Leutton and Jenny Postle recently debuted brand-new line Leutton Postle for the SS'12 season. Comprising of innovative knitwear techniques intermixed with gorgeous hues, the combination of texture and color creates spectacular designs with movement and presence.
After spending six months in China working with German knitwear company Stoll (whose New York City factory I visited a month ago under the influence of the Missoni family), Sam Leutton returned to work with Postle, a long-time friend of hers; the two had attended Central Saint Martins together. (Jenny Postle had been thrown into the spotlight when her Central Saint Martins MA show was snatched up by famous London fashion destination Browns Focus.)
The Leutton Postle line is best summed up with a quote from their website, which reads: "Their design approach freely embraces color, unusual surface texture and rich pattern to create beautifully offbeat knits for women."The placement of brights against a rich neutral background creates a beautiful and intriguing contrast, as does the mix of textures.
"It's quite 'now' in that it's playful with layers of texture," Leutton described in Dazed and Confused's December 2011 issue, "Who else is doing mental colours?"
P.S. Girl Loves Color spotted her first! Check out a highlight from Jenny Postle's Central Saint Martins graduate collection here.
xoxo
After spending six months in China working with German knitwear company Stoll (whose New York City factory I visited a month ago under the influence of the Missoni family), Sam Leutton returned to work with Postle, a long-time friend of hers; the two had attended Central Saint Martins together. (Jenny Postle had been thrown into the spotlight when her Central Saint Martins MA show was snatched up by famous London fashion destination Browns Focus.)
The Leutton Postle line is best summed up with a quote from their website, which reads: "Their design approach freely embraces color, unusual surface texture and rich pattern to create beautifully offbeat knits for women."The placement of brights against a rich neutral background creates a beautiful and intriguing contrast, as does the mix of textures.
"It's quite 'now' in that it's playful with layers of texture," Leutton described in Dazed and Confused's December 2011 issue, "Who else is doing mental colours?"
Images from leuttonpostle.com
Leutton Postle is stocked exclusively at Browns Focus, London.
For more information, visit the Leutton Postle website.
P.S. Girl Loves Color spotted her first! Check out a highlight from Jenny Postle's Central Saint Martins graduate collection here.
xoxo
December 08, 2011
Chelsea Market's Holiday Pop-Up Vintage Sale
Firstly, my apologies for the lack of posting this week. I've had exams in all my classes, which has made me overwhelmingly busy. However, I'm pleased to say that yesterday I was able to check out the Holiday Pop-Up Vintage Sale at Chelsea Market in NYC's Meatpacking District during a break from my studies.
Vintage is a curious topic. Often I find that vintage stores are hit-or-miss for me; while sometimes I go to a regular spot and find an amazing deal, other times I find that the collection of wares is entirely uninteresting to me. This is an ongoing problem that can be discouraging for many shoppers like me who enjoy vintage but don't always have the patience for it. I'm generally the kind of person who wants to go to a vintage store, find one or two cool things, go to another vintage store, find another thing. This rarely occurs. I would say that 9 times out of 10 I am unsuccessful in my hunt for vintage garments or accessories that catch my eye. Sure enough I have acquired a decent amount of vintage products over the past year or two, in which my interest in fashion has blossomed, but the ratio of vintage to new is quite unbalanced. Why is it that vintage is such a tricky thing? It's because times change. Trends always come back in style, but there are some fashions that are stuck in their respective time periods. Take for example the psychedelic colors and neon hues popularized in the 60s-80s. I'm obviously a huge fan of color, but some of the wild patterns and color combinations found in these eras are pretty unwearable in this day and age. Nonetheless, I always maintain a motivation to look for vintage items to add to my closet. The reason why vintage is so appealing to fashionistas is because these things are one-of-a-kind; it is rare to find a brand-new design that could come close to those that are vintage. And anyone who is skilled at putting outfits together knows that contrast is key: that between old and new never fails to create a timelessly chic ensemble. For these reasons I was excited to visit the Pop-Up Vintage Sale.
Below are some photographs I took of some colorful finds at the sale. Vintage is known for being very colorful, whereas color's presence in today's fashion world generally depends on the season.
If you are seeking colorful garments and jewelry, vintage stores are definitely good destinations. Just make sure you carefully examine everything you pick out and try to imagine incorporating the pieces into your wardrobe. Some things can be quite tricky to wear, and others are just plain tacky. Maintain a level of taste!
The Chelsea Market Holiday Pop-Up Vintage Sale is open until Saturday. Catch it while you can!
What are your best vintage finds? Let me know with a comment!
xoxo
Vintage is a curious topic. Often I find that vintage stores are hit-or-miss for me; while sometimes I go to a regular spot and find an amazing deal, other times I find that the collection of wares is entirely uninteresting to me. This is an ongoing problem that can be discouraging for many shoppers like me who enjoy vintage but don't always have the patience for it. I'm generally the kind of person who wants to go to a vintage store, find one or two cool things, go to another vintage store, find another thing. This rarely occurs. I would say that 9 times out of 10 I am unsuccessful in my hunt for vintage garments or accessories that catch my eye. Sure enough I have acquired a decent amount of vintage products over the past year or two, in which my interest in fashion has blossomed, but the ratio of vintage to new is quite unbalanced. Why is it that vintage is such a tricky thing? It's because times change. Trends always come back in style, but there are some fashions that are stuck in their respective time periods. Take for example the psychedelic colors and neon hues popularized in the 60s-80s. I'm obviously a huge fan of color, but some of the wild patterns and color combinations found in these eras are pretty unwearable in this day and age. Nonetheless, I always maintain a motivation to look for vintage items to add to my closet. The reason why vintage is so appealing to fashionistas is because these things are one-of-a-kind; it is rare to find a brand-new design that could come close to those that are vintage. And anyone who is skilled at putting outfits together knows that contrast is key: that between old and new never fails to create a timelessly chic ensemble. For these reasons I was excited to visit the Pop-Up Vintage Sale.
Below are some photographs I took of some colorful finds at the sale. Vintage is known for being very colorful, whereas color's presence in today's fashion world generally depends on the season.
Tangerine Boutique
Tangerine Boutique
Amarcord Vintage
Right to the Moon Alice
Lofty Vintage
1 of a Find
A Little Wicked
Denyse's Closet
Denyse's Closet
(Doesn't this look like SOBRAL?)
If you are seeking colorful garments and jewelry, vintage stores are definitely good destinations. Just make sure you carefully examine everything you pick out and try to imagine incorporating the pieces into your wardrobe. Some things can be quite tricky to wear, and others are just plain tacky. Maintain a level of taste!
The Chelsea Market Holiday Pop-Up Vintage Sale is open until Saturday. Catch it while you can!
What are your best vintage finds? Let me know with a comment!
xoxo
December 01, 2011
Feeling Blue
It's been a long time since I did a post focused on a specific hue (for those who haven't seen it, I also have a post about emerald green) so I decided that it was time.
Witchery jeans, $130
Srw
Steve Madden wedges, $100
Steve Madden wedges, $100
Image from Wikipedia
Blue is my favorite color, and I am particularly fascinated with shades such as the ultramarine above, which could also be identified as royal blue or indigo. If you are a color fanatic like I am, you probably enjoy targeting specific colors that you wish to add to your wardrobe, going from shade to shade. Blue is a popular color, but I find ultramarine to be such an exotic shade, lending an unusual vibe to a broad color spectrum often synonymous with jeans. If you love blue as much as I do, ultramarine is a great hue to add to your collection of clothing and accessories. It's elegant and sophisticated, and it would be difficult to find a color that doesn't pair well with such a color.
Below are some of my favorite ultramarine/royal blue/indigo pieces along with outfit suggestions.
Rebecca Taylor wool-blend coat, $495
Rag & Bone shirt, Current/Elliott skinny jeans, Kurt Geiger platform heels, Suzanna Dai earrings.
Why this outfit works: Contrast classy elegance with a casual, laid-back appeal. Yellow heels are an unexpected touch but don't outshine the coat.
Witchery jeans, $130
Equipment denim shirt, Vince striped sweater, Zara booties, Mawi necklace.
Why this outfit works: Jeans of such a vibrant hue naturally lend themselves to the double denim trend. A striped pullover worn underneath the denim shirt feels casually chic with sleeves peeking out and the neckline just visible when a few buttons are undone. Rugged boots add a warm, cozy feel and a sophisticated chain necklace is a great finishing piece.
Srw
Steve Madden wedges, $100
Helmut Lang blazer, Topshop sweater, MOTHER jeans, Suzanna Dai cuff.
Which of these outfits is your favorite? Would you ever wear ultramarine or do you own a piece that color? Let me know with a comment!
xoxo
Why this outfit works: This outfit is built upon the contrast between casual and formal. Bright ultramarine shoes are an unexpected but fun touch.
Which of these outfits is your favorite? Would you ever wear ultramarine or do you own a piece that color? Let me know with a comment!
xoxo
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