WHAT TO WEAR?????
It’s times like this that I totally wish I lived in LA or some tropical island sipping a drink with an umbrella on it. Bob Marley would be belting out “don’t worry about a thing” and I would be lying on a hammock rocking slowly side to side. The palm trees nearby would be swaying as if dancing to the wind or some Bob Marley. The waves would be crashing the sandy shore while the sea gulls caw infinitely above and distantly, laughter can be heard because everyone seems to be enjoying themselves. Sigh!!
But no! My love for the four seasons has left me with no choice but to deal with the dreaded winter. It's freaking cold!!! This morning my face was nearly frozen to a cube while walking to the gym. Please note that I parked my car the closest spot I could find to the gym entrance. So here I am sitted on the couch thinking am probably not alone in this. If you are like me and you have to deal with the "what to wear question" a little inspiration will come in handy because according to that groundhog, we have SIX more weeks of winter to deal with. Ugghh!!
I'm trying to figure out what to wear that is super warm and will also showcase my style without being bundled up like an eskimo. Haute Couture shows just wrapped up in Paris and I figured that would be the perfect place to find some inspo. Check out some of the street style looks from the fashion elite.
Phot Cred courtesy of style.com and Harpersbazaar.com
SOLANGE'S ALL WHITE WEDDING
Seriously!!! These are some of the most beautiful wedding pictures ever!!! I willl be honest and say YES I am completely biased because Solange is my style idol. To me, she does no wrong! ZERO! (I’m completely oblivious to any elevator incidents.. what*** totally unbothered) Ok!
Solange has a knack of putting on colors, mixing and matching prints so impeccably, it almost seems effortless. Plus she always stays true to her aesthetic. Never wavers. Ever!
Case in point this past weekend. Solange, 28, got married to Alan Ferguson,51, who's a talented music director known to have worked with Nelly Furtado, in-law Jay-Z, sis B,Katy Perry, Fall out Boy and other notable superstars. They got married at the Marginy Opera Center in New Orleans.
It’s a known fashion faux pas for wedding guests to where white during a wedding, for fear of upstaging the bride. Not for Solange! Everyone wore white, or off white. Her sister Beyonce who always to take the spotlight everywhere she goes blended in with the guests. Clearly, Solange was the star of her own wedding, as it should be.
She wore a Stèphane Rolland jumpsuit from the Fall 2012 Couture collection to her wedding. Solange later donned a Humberto Leon of Kenzo gown for a Vogue shot with her friends and family. She was later seen in another gown at the wedding reception where she danced to NO FLEX ZONE with her ten-year-old son Julez. Then another jumpsuit by Kenzo while dancing at the French Quater. Anyone counting? I think we are at four. The fifth outfit of the night was spotted on as she walked in to her after party with her hubby.
Wishing Solange and her new hubbs all the best.
How GORGE is that back!!!
Stephane Rolland Couture Gown
Dancing at the French Quater in New Orleans in a Humberto Leon of Kenzo Jumpsuit
Dancing to NO FLEX ZONE with her son Julez
These pictures are bound to make way to Pintrest. Many boards will be inspired by these beautiful wedding pictures.
THE SIGNATURE ITEM
After declaring my endless love for the biker jacket. It was only right to bring this topic to discussion. The signature item!! I did a mini throw back with pictures on the gallery, pictures based on posts done the past couple of years, rocking my biker jacket. They kinda took me back, sort of like a throwback. Different hairstyles, both long and short, my stint with bangs...ah, memories. So the signature item...
IS THAT ONE KEY PIECE THAT PULLS AN OUTFIT TOGETHER.
For you, it may be your trench coat, boyfriend blazer, a purse, that gorgeous pair of shoes full of scuff marks since you have literally worn them down, a scarf ( think CONFESSIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC, the movie, how Isla Fisher's character was obsessed with the Green scarf) Yup!… pretty much anything
I will borrow words from that Parisan book I mentioned in “A thing for circles and France.” (and about that review… it’s coming, I've just been a little preoccupied, ok am lying that's code for lazy..but It's coming..honestly) so where were we? Yes, borrowing words.. (Italics indicate excerpts from book)
You don’t have to spend a decade’s worth of salary on your wardrobe, or flaunt designer brands the whole time. All you need is one signature item: the one you wear when you need to feel strong.
That's me in Biker!! You could find it at a random garage sale in the neighborhood, local thrift store, eBay, literally anywhere. My jacket cost less that fifty bucks, HM, and still serves me quite well.
A signature item never gives itself way. It’s timeless. It transcends fashion. It is discreet—the letters of the alphabet (two Cs, a large D; the combination of Y, S, and L) belong on an ophthalmologists’ chart. Luxury should never be spelt out.
That made me laugh out loud! Ever gone for those eye tests. One eye closed? Oh… better yet at the DMV, right before you get your drivers license? Ha!
And finally…
The signature item is a gift that a woman gives herself depending on her age, her taste, and the size of her purse. It is a symbol of independence and freedom, which states, “I bought this for myself. I earned it and it makes me happy.”
Couldn't have said it better. So rock on you rockstar!! (Fiddles imaginary guitar)
Own it!
ARE FLATS MAKING A COMEBACK!!?
Pics courtesy of style.com
Flats!!! Yes!!!
They are making a major come back!! Not that they really left, but for some reason it's like we have discovered them all over again. I love flats, I know I don't post looks with me IN them a lot, but it is because I love heels MORE. Plain and simple. It's all about FLATS today. They have earned it.
Flats are the new normal, well, more like new "cinderella". Cinderella after she found the prince and lived happily ever after. Think about it. Where do you put your flats in the closet? Are they with your gorgeous heels on display for the entire world to see? Am guessing in the darkest corner of your closet. You probably have to use a flash light to find them because the flourecent lamps in your room refuses to shine light there!! Well, I think some good ol fairy God mother called Normcore came and exhaulted flats to some higher status.
Flats don't have to compete with heels anymore because they are getting more airtime that IGGY'S "FANCY" song. They have become the most coveted pair of shoe. Designers having models walk down the runway in feminine brogues and sneakers. Countless blog posts from my fave writers talking about flats and sneakers. Street style blogs on a roollllll with comfy good ol flats and sandals. "The invasion of flats." is an article I read on T Magazine, stating how flats have been liberated from the sterotype of being practical, because you can still look chic and polished in a pencil skirt and a pretty pair of brogues.
Am happy for the flats, they are having a HUGE moment right now. I love a high-heel. They make me feel sexy and fierce! Gives me an extra strut in my walk. Elongates my 5'4 frame to model status, and who wouldn't want that? They are beautiful to look at. Makes the derrier look good, no, amazing! Did I say sexy? I did... OK.
Victoria Beckham, mother, designer, fashion icon and Queen of all high heels once said,
"I can't concentrate in flats."
That quote always cracks me up. For me, it's not that serious, even though it's only a few inches up, I do come down to earth but I think the view up there is way better.
Flats or heels, I think it's a personal choice. I love a good pair of toms or ballets when running errands and such. Am yet to be converted fully.
What do you think?
FALL/WINTER TREND REPORT.
Stella Jean, Dior, Burberry, Kenzo
Happy first day of Fall everyone!!
This is my favorite season and am so so happy its here!!! Every season bring a different set of expectations, challenges, and the thrill of... something new!! Apart from the amazing Fall fashion, I am looking forward to the return of some of my favorite shows like
"SCANDAL", "HOMELAND", "THE GOOD WIFE", and "THE NEWSROOM."
Then the award winning creator, producer, director et al Shonda Rhimes has a new show entitled, "HOW TO GET AWAY WITH MURDER" with Viola Davis playing the lead role. Shonda brought us Derrick, Meredith, and Olivia Pope... so this new show is one to keep an eye on. Love how women are just taking over!!
Enough about the entertainment industry and lets get on to some serious fashion business!! Fall trends! Have you seen the massive September issues? They look like yellow pages on Roids. The huge magazines are bound to make me do a jig because I always look forward to the fashion spreads and impeccable writing on the said issues. For some, that may be too much, you may want it broken down to what you need to know, and that my friend is where I come in.
For this season, designers sent down bold prints, sheer fabrics, bright colors, knits, fuzzy furs, new silhouettes, and tons of dazzling designs on the runway. Below are some of the notable trends.
1. FUR REAL / FAUX SURE
Prada, Prabal Gurung, Tom Ford,
A drop temprature brings out cuddly, plush coats. Whether it's Fur real or.... the other kind, one thing is Faux sure, staying warm is paramount. Someone once said that Faux Furs make you itch. For someone who owns a few plush Fauxs, I can honestly tell you that I havent scratched my hide, ever!! (Pun intended)
This is also a great way off adding texture and color to your outfit.
2. BRIGHT EYED
Dior, Fausto Puglisi, Chanel, Dior
The mere thought of the cold, dreary winter season is enough to make one hunker down and not venture out. But with the colorful hues on display this season, everyday is bound to be bright and beautiful despite what the weather man says. Designers showcased a pallete with vibrant colors that would make any shrinking violet bloom. A yellow coat this winter? Why not!!!
3. GIRLS GONE WILD
Balmain, Celine, Carven, Chloe
"As far as am concerned, LEOPARD, is a NEUTRAL"
This is what Jenna Lyons the Creative director for J Crew once said. It ranks with black and white. Roar or Purr with this sexy print as seen at Balmain or with a white dress as seen at Chloe or be bold and rock the whole ensemble as seen at Carven.
You have nothing to lose you wild thing.
4.POPPY PRINTS
Dries Van Noten, Oscar De La Renta, Prada, Prada
I don't think prints will ever go out of anything. They are here to stay. They should just be added in to Fashion Hall of Fame. I am a lover of prints and I totally approve of anything that screams out loud. To pull of this look, look for prints with colors that compliment each other.
5. DRESS OVER PANTS
Looks 1 and 3 KENZO, Looks 2 and4 Diane Von Furstenberg
Dresses and pants, together? Sure. Kenzo and DVF dared to rock the look and spice it up with colors and print.
6. NEW NORM
Max Mara, Hugo Boss, Hugo Boss, Jason WU
The new normal.
Classic tailoring pulled of by wearing classic pieces like the white shirt, the blazer or the LBD. It's all about clean lines worn effortlessly.
7. SHEER BLISS
Burberry, Marchesa, Alexander McQueen, Valentino
Sheer, lacy, dreamy fabrics were seen all over the fall runway evoking romance and fairytales. A tasteful glimpse of skin as seen at Burberry and McQueen leaves the rest to the imagination.
8. SILVER LINING
Dries Van Noten, Chanel, Proenza Schouler, Dries Van Noten
This metallic number was seen all over the fall runway. Goes well with bright colors like Orange and Fuchsia. It can also go with its sister color grey as seen at Chanel. Make this fall/winter season festive by adding some silver to your looks.
9. SHADES OF GREY
Ralph Lauren, Tods, Ralph Lauren, Haider Ackermann
Ever since the novel Fifty Shades of Grey came out almost three years ago, all shades of grey have been trending ever since. Grey is a quiet, sexy color that makes even the demure looks, beautiful and classical.
10. IN KNIT
Michael Kors, Prabal Gurung, Stella Jean, Stella McCartney
Stay warm and cozy with knits this fall. The bigger the better. Big sweaters, big scarves, big everything. If there's one thing the past winter taught me, staying warm is a must so bring on all big knits. One to wrap myself in while drinking a cup of hot chocolate? Yes, am in KNIT!!
11. BRING ON THE SIXTIES
Valentino, Mary Katranzou, Prada, Louis Vuttion
Pictures courtesy of Style.com and Vogue
The Sixties, a decade that is said to have changed the world. It's one of the decades that really influnced the American culture from fashion,to art, to music. The decade that said goodbye to 50's cinched waists and round full skirts. It's retro version came back in full swing for this season. A youthful mix of short, mod, dresses, mini-skirts, knee-highs, flats, and accessories took people down on memory lane.
END NOTE
Remember, trends are supposed to only enhance what you are wearing. Your style should be at the fore front, don't let the trends own you.
Also remember to accessorise and always smile, you are never fully dressed without a smile.
Let me know what trends you are bound to incorporate.
Thanks for stopping by.
AFRICAN FASHION WEEK NEW YORK (THE RECAP)
It’s one of the most exciting times of the year i.e New York Fashion Week, so you know we were there to cover the excitement going on at the African Fashion week New York 2014 (AFWNY) which also happens to be the same week and showcases African fashion designers.
Friday night AFWNY held a Pop-Up shop for the designers to showcase their designs for the media and prospective buyers at the John Voght Gallery in Manhattan. It was also an opportunity to network with fashion industry insiders, and see the designs up close. Despite the lack of A/C which reminded me of my local gym sauna and extremely loud music that made it seem more like a club with attendees talking at the top of their lungs, the presentation went on seamlessly with well-tailored designs that had me looking forward to the main runway show at the Metropolitan Pavilion, the next day. Showing for the first time at AFWNY, were Kenyan fashion designers, Sally Karago of Mcensal and Hilda Mauya of Dahil Republic of Couture.
Sally Karago’s collection was inspired by the Turkana tribe and their beautiful culture. Her designs embraced the Turkana spirit in beautiful suede, detailed weaving, and gorgeous neck pieces. The collection had a succinct color pattern with a cohesiveness that really impressed me. Her collection portrayed a mastery that only comes from years of honing the craft.
Hilda Mauya had a modern, vibrant collection which had an array of bold patterns and colors were infused in her designs. Her collection was for the modern woman who is confident with her self and has no qualms letting the world know about it. Designs included flowy and body hugging gowns that were tailored to perfection that also incorporated different textures like feathers and wood. Both designers left a good impression on me and I can’t wait to see future collections.
Check out more pictures on Kenyanvibe.com