Thursday 17 November 2011

{princess} style....

A little bit of fun...

Which gorgeous princess style best represents you??


Wednesday 16 November 2011

{current} trends referencing past era's

An assignment I completed recently was based on how our modern trends reference past era's. I enjoyed this module immensely and it completely changed the way I look at current styling. There is just so much to learn in this area and the fact that I aced this, excites me somewhat !!

Here are two styles which I based my assignment on....

Style One {Roman Style} Toga

The original toga was actually worn by men for some time. Roman women wore a Stola, which was a long pleated dress. As you can see from both images, the current dress is very similiar to the original, with the dress only having the fabric over one shoulder. The current version of the toga is definintely much more appealing to our fashion style today as the lines are smoother and less draping of fabric is involved. Another similarity between the original and current verdion (in this style) is that they are both fashion pieces which flow beautifully. Originally the toga was to cover up the body until the 2nd Century, when it became more about style, as it was worn over tunics.

{the original toga}

{Marchesa's current toga-style dress}


Style Two {Greek Style} Chiton

The original Chiton style gave the impression of two outfits put together, such as a skirt and top, due to the addition of belts and girdles which were worn under the bust and on the waist or hips as well as fabric which was folded, twisted and wrapped, enhanced with stitching and pressed pleats. This current style chiton worn by Kim, shows a very similar style to the chiton with the fabric wrapping around the bust area, pulling in tight around the waist. The flowing length of the dress from the waist down also reflects the chiton's flowing style. Having her hair up as well, makes Kim look like a Greek Goddess, as they too always wore their hair up.

{original chiton dress} 

{current chiton-style dress, again by Marchesa}

It's funny how you see a dress/outfit hanging on the rack or on the runway and you just don't give it much thought, for where the style originated from ! This module has really taught me a lot and I look forward to learning more and more about the fabulous world of fashion !
x



Sunday 6 November 2011

{ten} staples for a classic wardrobe

  1. A good coat: For example a trench coat, is a wardrobe essential. As with all other classic pieces, choose a neutral colour for your client such as black, chocolate, navy or beige that can be worn over lots of different things. Purchase one which you can afford as an ill-fitting coat will ruin the most expensive, and beautiful of outfits.
  2. Good quality knitwear: Budget permitting, aim for natural fibres such as 100% wool or cashmere. These are more expensive but much better quality and will last you a lot longer. A classic V-neck style with three-quarter or full length sleeves will suit most women and will get you through several seasons without appearing dated. Choose a thin rather than thick knit.
  3. A cocktail dress: Look for a classic style that flatters your body shape, for example a wrap dress which suits most figures. Remember, it doesn't necessarily have to be a "little black dress."
  4. A collared shirt: A well-cut white shirt with crisp collar and cuffs is always a great addition to any wardrobe. It is perfect for both weekend and work wear. Choose a shade of white that is most flattering for your skin tone.
  5. The perfect pair of jeans: Look for either a boot-cut or straight leg style in a dark, even denim. Definitely no fading, embroidery or hemline detail (this sounds lik a trend piece, rather then a classic). Always fit your widest area first, and then it can be a simple alternation to nip in the waist if it is too large.
  6. An A-line skirt: A simple A-line skirt is very easy to wear and flattering on most body shapes.
  7. Boot-cut or man-style pants: A great cut that skims over the hip area, creates a long leg line and upper/lower body balance. These styles will suit most body shapes. Budget depending, get several pairs in neutral colours such as black, beige or chocolate.
  8. A pair of boots: Perfect for autumn/winter weather. Look for soft chocolate leather in whatever heel height you are most comfortable in.
  9. A handbag: Look at purchasing the best quality leather handbag which you can afford in a neutral colour such as beige, camel, chocolate or black. This is a wardrobe staple, will go with practically everything, and last you for many seasons.
  10. Any other signature pieces that you feels suits your own personal style: Your wardrobe must have its own personal element of style.

The basic guidelines are:
  • Solids mix more easily than prints but prints can bridge the gap between two completely different solids
  • Choose classic styles with clean, simple lines
  • Choose colours from your most flattering colour palette (I can help you with this)
  • Choose styles that suit your shape and your clothing personality
  • Invest in quality pieces that will last for many years

    {boring} black

    Despite the fact that black items of clothing tend to make one feel slimmer, smarter and possibly even more powerful, the season tones recommend only winter toned individuals wear the colour black.

    However, here are some tips on how to successfully wear black (because we can't all give it up!)

    • Black looks its absolute best when worn with one, or a combination of neutral tones (e.g. white, grey, cream, tan, gold, silver, bronze and brown)
    • When wearing black with a colour, be sure to add another neutral tone to the ensemble - it looks less dated that way
    • It isn't easy to look good in black when worn from head to toe, but it can be done. Make sure that each item of the outfit is of a different texture. The trick is to "add dimension" and avoid "looking flat".
    • Black items need to be very black! As soon as they start to lose their colour - overall flattering effect is lost.
    • Refrain from wearing black all the time. It has the power to "drain" one's appearance. Remember to alternate with other colours that suit your skin tone.

    {image found on collegefashion.net}