Finding the Right Look for Spring

A trench coat may be a timeless classic but when everyone starts wearing one I begin to crave something different. That's where Smythe comes in. With their silhouette hugging jackets they seem like a perfect addition to your Spring wardrobe. I find them stylish and extremely flattering especially since they cinch in your waistline just where you need it most. Their latest season has several to choose from along with a few other pieces that I thought I'd add into the mix. If you don't want to pay full price, and I don't blame you, you may be able to find something similar at designer resale sites such as Tradesy where there are more and more options to choose from. It certainly never hurts to look.

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If I Could Rob One Store, Colette Would Be It

Of course, I would start off with the shoes and then the clothes would follow. Naturally, I would need a truck, a big truck, but preferably an automatic. And then off I'd go. Life would be good, at least for a little while, until next season anyway. But silly thoughts aside, I really thought that my love of fashion would abate with time, but so far that hasn't happened. I've just become pickier. Lately though, it hasn't been easy to find anything unique; everyone seems to be wearing the same things. That's why Colette is a great store to visit, even if it's just online. Run by a mother-daughter team, Colette Roussaux and Sarah Andelman respectively, the store celebrates its 20th anniversary this March. Judging by the duo's philosophy it's easy to see why the store has survived so long: 

“We never take things just because we think it’s going to sell,” Ms. Andelman said. “There has to be a certain logic. It has to be different, something unto itself, that’s of high quality and that we’ve never seen before. It has to have integrity and be new. With everything that already exists out there, it’s really hard to do something new.” (NYT)

Here are some of the latest additions to the store that I quite liked:

1.  J. w. Anderson

I can't wait for a more colourful wardrobe

It's that time of the year when everyone is dying for a vacation. And I don't blame them. Anyone who has ever lived through a Canadian winter knows full well the intensity of the cold here. Personally, I don't know how else to describe it except to say it is almost physically painful. That's why the past few days have been something short of a miracle, with temperature highs of 10 degrees. That alone has made me wonder about a brighter wardrobe. So, here are some summer clothes worth lusting after. Even if you can't go on vacation, it is reassuring to know Spring and Summer are only a few months away. 

1.  Le Desir

And the Fashion Continues

I'm not into funky fashion. It's just not me. Trends make me feel like a conformist or worse, like a sucker for marketing. I prefer my clothes to stay a while. Because whether you like it or not clothes are an investment. They may not pay you a dividend but if you've ever bought something that loses its appeal after one season then you know the annoyance that follows suit. I like that these items are stylish but not outrageous:

1. Yves Saint Laurent - Yoox

A Quick Escape to Summer Fashion

Winter is as good as time as any to blog about summer fashion. Who doesn't need an escape after all? Whether you're planning a vacation or just looking forward to the end of snow these pieces might give you a short respite from the cold. I say dare to daydream. 

1. Dolce and Gabbana - My Theresa

These Shoes Have ❤ Heart ❤

It may be a little late to order these for Valentine's Day but do you really need an excuse? These hand-crafted mules and slippers hail from A. Andreassen where their design is "inspired by the woven baskets that children in Scandinavia make and fill with sweets". Using natural materials of either felt or leather they are manufactured by family-run operations in Portugal, so no sweat shops. Not only are they adorable but they look comfortable too. I wish I could have them in every colour. They make them for kids too.


1.  Elskling Leather Mule "Very Red" £140.00

The Perfect White Summer Dress

Anna Lewandowska in Le Desir

Still Waiting for Spring

When it comes to fashion I like classic lines and feminine details. Nothing over the top trendy. Clothing is supposed to flatter your shape not constrict it to suit every trend. If you don't get the foundation right you're going to waste your time and money every season. With that said, there's no harm in looking at designer goods for inspiration. You can always find similar items at a fraction of the price, buy used, or even add your own handmade touches if you're so inclined. The most important elements are the cut and the fabric. If you get that right your look will seem effortless and your style will be timeless.

1.  Givenchy Black Cashmere and silk top available at Montaigne Market

A Peek at Magda Butrym Fashion

When the New York Times features your collection it's always a big deal but it is especially so when your label is barely two years old. With that in mind, Polish designer Magda Butrym has much to smile about. Already dubbed as a designer to watch, her clothes have been spotted on several celebrities and models recently. While her quick success may appear out of the blue, the designer did spend several years honing her skills at La Mania before starting her own label. Currently, the line is available at retailers across the globe, but for now the designer plans to continue working in her native land.

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Interview with Photographer Lee Oliveira

Brazilian-born and Sydney-based street style photographer Lee Oliveira has proven how quickly great talent and hard work can be recognized in the blogging world. Since starting his blog in May 13, 2010 Lee has traveled the world in search of great style and stylish people and now can proudly call Gucci a supporter. Since June 2011, he has been collaborating with the Italian brand as their official street style photographer by providing shots of people dressed in Gucci from around the globe. Clearly, his work is testament to the growing interest not only in street style blogging but the regular people who prove that true style is often found on the way to work and not just on the runway.

When you look at Lee's work you can see how street style photography is as much about the art of photography as it is about fashion. Lee's images are not only beautiful because they're spirited, youthful and stylish but also because they capture a spontaneous moment in time that may have been missed by all of those who love fashion so much. If you look closely you'll see exactly why Gucci has selected him to collaborate with. Lee's work exhudes the energy that engages fashion on every level. No details are ever missed because his eye and good taste can spot beauty everywhere. We can only wonder what Lee will have in store for us next year. Until then, enjoy this interview and selected pics and most of all make sure to visit LeeOliveira.com. Happy New Year everyone!!!

1. What was your life was like in Brazil before you began blogging?

Ah... Brazil! I worked really hard when I was a teenager. I use to sell homemade custard bread on the streets of my hometown. Later I use to sell newspapers. As an adult I moved to a bigger city a few hours from my hometown and then finally moved to London.

2. What made you move to Australia?

Well, I met my other half in London quite a few years ago. The question was... he moves to London or I move to Sydney, now after 8 years, I call Australia home.  

3. When you travel do you have an idea of where you’re going to photograph or is it spontaneous?

I have a schedule of places I need to be and shows I get invited too. Fashion month is always on my calendar. I am also constantly with my camera to catch those random shots.

4. Which city impresses you the most in terms of style and why?

Two cities, Milan for style and Paris for fashion.

5. Are there any places that you’re still dying to explore?

Sao Paulo I know, but I would like to experience it during Fashion Week.

6. You’re surrounded by fashion, are there any designers that you wish more people would know about?

Yes, Australia designers Dion Lee, Alex Perry and Aurelio Costarella. 

7. Besides your camera, what are some things you can’t live without?

Shoes, lots of shoes, (hahaha).

8. What do you enjoy doing on your days off?

I don't normally have too many days off. When I do, I like to catch up with my friends... you know... movies, popcorn! I try to disconnect myself from fashion for a short time.

9. If you could shoot an advertising campaign for any designer who would it be and why?

Gucci. I love this classic brand. The attitude of the models is exactly what I hope to find on the streets.

10. What is your idea of perfect happiness?

Have the best relationship with yourself! ... and... Dream! Never stop dreaming!

11. When it comes to your blog and photography what are you most proud of?

I am thankful to have an incredible amount of readers that I inspire on a daily basis. This is priceless for me.

12. What projects are you hoping to work on next? What projects are you hoping to work on next?

2012 will take me to a whole different level, “exciting but can't talk about it at the moment” haha. I have few big things in the pipeline.

When fall is just around the corner

If you're lucky enough to still have warm weather you may want to skip this post, but if you don't, then these Smythe jackets may offer you some comfort. Personally, I wish I could have every single item from this label but that's not really possible now is it? Well, maybe, just one day I'll have at least one. For now, I'll put them down on my wish list.

I like this one too. But I wonder if either jacket would be warm enough to survive the winter? Hmm...perhaps they could partner up with the UGG company for a few limited edition pieces that could combine the pure warmth and comfort of UGG and the chic style of Smythe. Am I dreaming here? Probably, but then isn't that what a blog is for?

I don't know about you but I've always loved the fit of New Balance shoes, they're as great for walking as they are for playing tennis. And it doesn't hurt that they look good too, or at least they used to. Until J.Crew came out with this grey pair, I really thought I was going to have to look elsewhere. Hopefully, they'll come out with some other winning colour combinations and designs sooner than later otherwise I moving onto Puma.

Style Blogs for Men: Part One

When it comes to men's clothing I have to admit I've never really had a desire to wear any. I know there are some women out there who like the aesthetic but personally, with the exception of a few articles, such as sweaters and cardigans and some accessories (watches, scarves and wallets), I have never really had an interest which is why I'm still scratching my head as to why I would even want to write about the topic. What could I possibly learn from the pattern on a bow tie or the cut of a man's suit. It turns out a lot. From a design standpoint, there is more to men's style blogs than just fashion, what I found throughout is not only incredible photography but great taste too. 

Not Enough Hangers

What a Queer Bird

Convoy

Kempt

We Could Grow Up Together

Guy Style Guide

Gentleman's Quota

da-i-net.

Nickel Cobalt

JJJJound

Atif Kazmi

12 Pieces

Backyard Bill

The Impossible Cool

Life of Polarn Per

Ordinary Glory

Racing Like a Pro

Men In This Town

Helena Christensen in Russian Harper's Bazaar

I saw these pics by photographer Luis Sanchis in Russian Harper's Bazaar yesterday and I wanted to share them with you. I've always admired how Helena Christensen has managed to stay out of the spotlight even after her modelling days choosing instead to focus on her photography and doing select work that she finds interesting.

I think that's one of the reasons she's lasted so long in the fashion and modelling world.  She's never suffered from over-exposure like some others.  In this way, I think her irreverence has served her well.  It's hard to believe she's 42.

René Gruau: Fashion Illustrations

It's funny how you can have one thing planned and then get completely derailed by something you see or read. Well, that's how jolted I was when I came across these beautiful sketches by René Gruau in The Telegraph today. The artist who is best known for his work with Christian Dior will have several of his pieces up for auction at Christie's tomorrow.  I am including a few others here to showcase the breadth of his talent.   

One thing you notice immediately about Gruau's sketches is how timeless they are. Their fluid brushstrokes, contrasting use of colour and patterns make for some unusual fashion illustrations. In fact, they go beyond mere illustrations. They're really works of art.

There is an element of Andy Warhol in some of Gruau's work that is on display here.  While his images are taken from the fashion world rather than from celebrity there is a glamour to them that suggests both opulence and flair.  Part fantasy and part invention these sketches epitomize the women of haute couture as they existed during the artist's life.  Ironically, they are as relevant today as they were at the time they were unveiled.  And one can't help but notice a similarity in his style of illustration and its swiftly drawn approach to that of some of today's design houses with Hermès being one example.

There is a painterly quality to René Gruau's work that is as equally modern as it is stylish and feminine.  I think the writer Drusilla Beyfus described his technique quite succinctly in her article on the artist when she said:  "Using a broad, flowing brushstroke, pen, Indian ink and gouache, he would create a motif on a ground of flat tone. He drew on many artistic influences, such as Japonism, which was in the cultural air, the kabuki theatre with its emphasis on make-up and masks, and on Japanese woodcuts especially." (The Telegraph)

Born on February 4, 1909 in Rimini, Italy, René Gruau changed his given name, Renato Zavagli Ricciardelli, to his mother's maiden name after moving to Paris.  And it was in France that he first gained recognition for his talents in drawing before quickly catching the attention of the international press.  It is not surprising that his work gained so much momentum in the fast-paced and driven world of fashion.  For if there is one industry that can catapult an artist into the limelight faster than any other it's fashion.

Gruau was lucky enough to work with many fashion houses during his career but it was at Christian Dior where he collaborated the most.  He created some of Dior's most iconic images and when looking at them today you cannot help but appreciate their stark beauty.  There is much symbolism and meaning in his sketches, and particularly in his swan work for Miss Dior:  "A white swan outlined in sweeping black brushstrokes is shown sailing over calm waters and sporting a black bow - a Dior insignia - and a pearl necklace. The couturier kept swans at his country estate, Le Moulin du Coudret. Moreover, in the decor of 18th-century France - a period revered by the couturier - the swan represented renewal. Miss Dior was aimed at a new generation."  (The Telegraph)

What René Gruau's work does best is it captures a certain mood in fashion without so much as even referencing a specific trend or period of time. It is in this way that he conceives a certain image and hence the reason his designs appear entirely stripped of historical identification.        

The difficulty in trying to classify Gruau's work is that it belongs as much to the art world as it does to the world of fashion.  And I think it is this overlap and distinction that separates him from other fashion illustrators.  Gruau favoured and combined the use of ink, pen and guache in his art and with the the right amount of skill he achieved something quite sophisticated.  In the process, he elevated himself and his work in a way to ensure a lasting appeal.

His use of bright colour highlights the spirit of movement and effortless beauty that is synonymous with French fashion.  Light and airy his female figures move as though they are as much influenced by beauty and design as they are by the playfulness and pleasures of life.

There is much humour in Gruau's work as one can see in this sketch below.  What exactly René Gruau had in mind when painting these two paws remains a mystery.  I cannot help but laugh, what is it here that's so sexually suggestive: woman as tigress or an innocent taming a wild beast?

René Gruau's work and female images appeal to us because they're just as alluring as they are beautiful.  They can be executed simply yet they remain sophisticated.  Here, Gruau plays with colour and contrast and he captures so well the essence of a woman's beauty and expression; all the elements work brilliantly together.

Consider the following work and the ways in which the artist translates the fashion world into something a little less ordinary.  I love the exaggerated turban, the large bows and the tassels on the belted figure.  All of the details in this work are so well-executed.

And is there any item of clothing more quintessential and evocative of French style than a red beret? Perhaps, but consider how effective it is here.  The heavily accentuated and curved eyelashes complement the checkered coat without appearing rigid or geometric.  As a result, Gruau's lush brushstrokes and curved lines dispel structure and conformity.  His style is limitless and he crafts it to perfection.

René Gruau's work is consistent throughout and his familiarity with fashion coupled with impeccable taste is evidenced throughout the classic sensibility that he portrays.   His adoration for timeless designs become his signature look.  Less is definitely more and nowhere is this more illustrated than in Gruau's subject matter.  

The aura of fashion, its mystique and luxury is held with careful regard and calculated effort in these works.  It is clear that Gruau admires fashion as an art form and his illustrations epitomize the idea that this is the way we should really look at fashion.  For there is beauty in placement and detail as well as skill in the application of colour in all the elements of a work of art as there is in fashion.  At least that is what I think René Gruau tried to suggest.