Michael Birch

Michael Birch designs the most imaginative and creative scarves I've ever seen. Each scarf collages an assortment of unique images added for "style, narrative, and others to induce a movement, feeling or even a specific sound." The goal behind each design is to create "visual movement" with "opposing themes and contrasting meaning." Indeed Birch's elaborate wording is the best way to describe his designs. Inspired by music, poetry, and art (among other influences), Birch chooses various themes for his works in order to "demand a conversation with the viewer." The British designer was educated at the Chelsea College of Art and having worked with designers such as Zandra Rhodes, Birch formed a solid foundation for his chosen career path. Truly words cannot describe these prints: each one tells its own story, and it's only really possible to follow along in person.

I can definitely see Birch as one of today's young up-and-coming designers. His designs are proof of his unmistakeable talent; each design is carried out with evident thought, care, and passion. I can't wait to see more from Birch, and I hope you'll feel the same.

Images from michaelbirch.co

You can shop the Michael Birch collection of scarves on his website.

What do you think of these scarves? Which one is your favorite (if you can choose)? I'd love to see your response!

And speaking of scarves, please enter my vintage Missoni scarf giveaway!

xoxo

I'm Haute for Couture

As we grieve about winter, aching for warmer weather, magic is occurring in the fashion world. Couture has been prancing down Parisian runways, lighting up the lives of the fashion-obsessed across the globe. I always look forward to Spring/Summer runway shows for the generally upbeat vibe that radiates from each look. (And after all, the S/S shows are often the most colorful.) Couture fashion week, however, is always one of the most exciting occasions. This is when creativity comes alive, because these looks are not made to sell, rather they exemplify the artistic side of fashion rather than emphasizing commercialism. Though I love RTW shows, they truly do not compare to those of haute couture. My only regret is that more designers do not create couture looks; there are so many RTW designers that contain a wonderful mindset for dreaming up such creations.
Below I have featured the most colorful looks from the Spring 2012 couture season.

Alexis Mabille

Inspired by a photograph of model Lisa Fonssagrives on a beach, Alexis Mabille created a collection suited to the idea of the "science of color." Certainly the focus was on solids, each look presenting a new - but solitary - bright. Though the oversized roses situated on the top of each model's head serve as quite a distraction, once the eye finally drifts downwards it is evident that each garment is wonderfully crafted. Beautifully fitted silhouettes and extravagant detailing (especially in the light green look) make for a collection that only slightly verges on crazy, mostly sitting on the line of elegant. It is the headgear and painted faces that slide the collection over towards absurd; the clothing is thoughtfully designed, with most of the looks ending up as winners. (Some looks fall a bit short, such as a metallic neon pink shift, which could have been better conceived.) Over all, though one could argue that the details from chin up were necessary, it's these details that really make a couture show what it is. As viewers, we look for the little (or big) things that separate RTW from couture, the creative decisions that individualize designers and show off their artistic talent. Alexis Mabille certainly lived up to the standard that haute couture sets.

Giambattista Valli

Although the majority of Giambattista Valli's show consisted of blacks and whites, pops of color appeared in a set of pinkish-red gowns. Though as Girl Loves Color I'm probably biased, I would have to say that these looks stole the show. Color never fails to stand out and in haute couture shows, this is exactly what I look for. Not to mention that these gowns are perfectly appropriate with Valentine's Day rapidly approaching. Yes, the color palette is reminiscent of Valentine's Day, but the dresses embody elegance and pure femininity personified by truly genius designs by Valli. The two solid gowns are simple yet undeniably classy with certain nods of luxury. The two printed gowns are more on the extravagant side yet still contain a classic air. Just by glancing at these four looks, it is immediately evident that Valli is a talented designer who knows how to craftily shape fabric into mind-blowingly beautiful results.

Versace

All images from style.com

Despite the nice use of color for the Atelier Versace line, I wasn't that impressed with the brief collection that Donatella Versace showed. The designs were loyal to the brand's signature, but in the end the looks seemed to fall a bit short of where they should have been. It's almost as if Donatella was tired out from the H&M collaboration earlier this year, too worn out to put the necessary effort into her couture show. Regardless, the designs were still nice; I just have high standards for couture shows. A textured yellow dress with shoulder cut-outs was definitely a winner, along with a flaming orange one-shoulder minidress that I predict will make an appearance on the red carpet sometime this year. After all, Atelier Versace is becoming a favorite for the red carpet, and it looks like Donatella wanted to create some more stunners for her celebrity following.

Over all, there wasn't a large amount of color present on the couture runway shows. Color had its moment of greatness in the spotlight, but it seems like now a lot of designers are letting the excitement fade, opting for neutrals and pastels. There's nothing wrong with this, of course, but I wish more designers would consistently take advantage of the color wheel.

But the fall 2012 shows are right around the corner, and we'll see what happens to color next. 

What did you think of the Spring 2012 haute couture shows? Were you disappointed or pleased? Which designers were your favorite? Leave a comment and let me know!

P.S. Don't forget to enter my giveaway for a chance to win a vintage Missoni scarf.

xoxo

Missoni Scarf Giveaway: Girl Loves Color Celebrates One Year!

I'm proud to announce that, as of yesterday, Girl Loves Color is officially one year old! It's been an amazing year. I feel like my blog and I have both grown so much in these 12 months, and I'm amazed at how time has flown.
I can truly say that Girl Loves Color changed my life. Blogging opens up so many doors, and I feel immersed in the fashion world, instead of peering in from the outside. The blog is also a mechanism for improvement; I greatly feel that my writing and photography skills have improved immensely. Blogging has helped me explore my passions and it's a way to freely express myself.
Of course, I would never forget to mention my lovely readers. I love each and every one of you who reads my blog, even if it's just a post or two. It's incredible to think that there are fashion-lovers all over the world reading my posts. And it's even more wonderful to see the comments I receive, knowing that my readers love engaging with my posts.

Girl Loves Color was truly an experiment. I love writing, and I love fashion. I always imagined taking advantage of these two interests of mine in a future career, but when I heard about the rising fad of blogging, I figured, why not start now? It would be a good chance to try something new out and see if this was really the career path I wanted to venture down.
One year later, the experiment continues, and I love it.

Anyway, to celebrate the one year anniversary of my beloved blog, I wanted to do a giveaway to thank my readers for staying with me.
I visited a number of resale stores, searching for the perfect item. (It had to be colorful, of course.) Finally, I found the most beautiful item, and it is available for you to win!

Missoni is literally my favorite brand of all time. Apart from being quite colorful, Missoni pieces use incredible craftsmanship and the designs are truly like no other. So in just a few sentences, you will find out how you can win this gorgeous vintage Missoni silk-wool scarf.

Value: about $200-$400.

Photographs taken with my iPhone 4S

This medium-weight scarf is perfect for the end of winter and all of spring, so you'll be able to wear it right away! The pattern is Missoni's classic zig-zag; a scarf like this is timeless, something that can be passed down or worn for as long as you want. With its bright pinks, oranges, purples and reds, it's also perfect for adding that pop of color every outfit needs!

GIVEAWAY CLOSED.

Thank you to everyone who entered and to our winner.

Let It Snow

For me, weather has always been the element to ruin an outfit. Whether rain or snow, extreme heat or extreme cold, the climate has always in part dictated what I wear. It's a habit of mine to check the weather forecast every morning before school because certain shoes cannot be worn in the rain and certain sweaters should not be worn if the temperature is above freezing.
I should say now that I am not a fan of snow. It looks pretty when it has just fallen, a clean white blanket masking the dullness of cement sidewalks. But within a matter of hours, the serenity of this untouched layer disappears into a mess of gray slush that is unpleasant in every way. This is mostly because I live in New York City, where there is traffic and a multitude of people walking here and there, so I can't speak for everyone. But when it comes to fashion choices during this time, I think most can relate.
I do not do snow boots. Yes, I have a pair of Uggs. (I'm a teenager, after all.) Yes, I wear them when the snow is unbearable. But, really, there's nothing fun about snow boots. Luckily, this season there is a variety of boots to choose from that won't be such a pain to wear. Wondering how to wear yours? Girl Loves Color has the answer.

Calypso St. Barth sweater, Witchery jeans, Juicy Couture snow boots, Basso & Brooke scarf, Wallis earrings, Marni bracelet.

3.1 Phillip Lim cardigan, Reiss blouse, Marc by Marc Jacobs jeans, Sorel snow boots, Amrita Singh earrings, Michael Kors watch.

Rag & Bone cardigan, Modcloth dress, Hue tights, Ugg boots, Yves Saint Laurent ring.
Tips for styling your snow boots:

1. Think of your snow boots as combat boots to make putting your outfits together easier.
2. Use contrast. Snow boots are bulky and feel more masculine; play off of this with light, feminine pieces.
3. Keep in mind the colors of your snow boots. Dark brown and gray call for a cool color scheme. Light brown or camel calls for warmer tones. Black goes with anything.

What do you wear in the snow? Which of these outfits is your favorite? Let me know with a comment! I'd love to hear what you think.

And remember to make good use of my new e-mail button! It's a great way to contact me.

xoxo

Flower Child

Being in the Dominican Republic, one sees a lot more bright colors than in New York City. While New York City is known for citizens who wear way too much black, the city also suffers from cold winters. The Dominican Republic, which does not experience this type of climate and has probably never received snow, is a tropical country. There are different varieties of palm trees everywhere and bright purple and pink flowers sprinkled around the resort I am residing in. It's simply a more colorful place.
This is why I wasn't surprised to find a lot of color and bright patterns when I went to a nearby shopping center this afternoon. There were only a few shops with native lines (the rest were American stores), but these shops were so fun for a girl like me. I saw a large variety of swimwear in bold patterns and sheer caftans and such for swim cover-ups, also decorated with colorful prints. The everyday clothing was not the best quality, but it was interesting to see the different styles and patterns used in another country's fashions. Though I tried some things on, no, I did not buy anything. (Remember my 2012 Fashion Resolution to be a more careful shopper?) Instead, I was inspired to write this post.
Anyway, this brings us to the topic of today's post. I have always been a lover of floral prints. No matter where I go, I never fail to be enticed by the florals on the racks of clothing stores. Seeing so many flowers here and so many floral prints while shopping, I was interested in scouring the brands I know for some great florals that are more accessible. Below, you will find some brief features of brands known for their fantastic floral prints. After all, it may be winter where I live, but I still like to brighten things up!

Erdem


Erdem Morialioglu cites "color, optimism, and oddities" as his design signatures. Born in Canada, the designer studied at the Royal College of Art. His brand has received numerous awards, including the BFC/Vogue Designer Fashion Fund 2010.


Spring/Summer 2012

Pre-Spring 2012

 Images from erdem.co.uk

Stolen Girlfriends Club

The latest collection from this brand made good use  graphics of colorful floral landscapes reminiscent Monet's depictions of nature. Combined with interesting silhouettes and three-dimensional details, the brand had its own unique spin on the inspiration. 

Spring 2012

Images from stolengirlfriendsclub.com

Mary Katrantzou


Mary Katrantzou is one of the lastest It designers to hit the scene, but she is certainly making her mark. Known throughout the industry for her fabulous and one-of-a-kind juxtapositions of print, the designer freely uses color and composes unique, architectural silhouettes for only the most perfect creations. The theme for this collection was man vs. nature, so naturally florals were everywhere.

Spring 2012

 Images from style.com

ModCloth

Known for its great selection of indie designers and in-demand supply of vintage, this shopping website is perfect for the woman who hates wearing what everyone else has. The picks are stylish, affordable, and even the new pieces have a fun, vintage feel. The floral pieces offered by ModCloth are stunning and quite classy.

Images from modcloth.com

Hopefully this post has given you a glimpse of what florals will be looking like for the spring 2012 season. Personally, I'm looking forward to buying some great floral printed dresses for spring and summer from ModCloth.

Do you like floral prints? Which of these brands is your favorite for florals? Let me know with a comment!

P.S. Have you noticed Girl Loves Color's brand new makeover? I hope you like it as much as I do! I've added a handy e-mail button so you can correspond with me easily. Feel free to use it, as I love hearing from my readers. Please do e-mail me with comments about the new layout. I thought it was time for a change. An early spring cleaning, you could call it.

xoxo