Fashion Highlight: Color Blocking Craze by BCBG Max Azria Autumn/Winter 2012 (with some year round looks)

Is color blocking just a trend?

Well think again because when a collection like BCBG Max Azria is devoted almost entirely to color blocking, it is a fashion statement that will be around for a while longer.  I was fascinated that the colors and designs explored color blocking in many different combinations - it ranged from vertical and horizontal combinations in different neutral colors to a fun mix with different textures. The same color (white) paired with a sheer white to create a different textural view or a simple color blocked coat was mixed with fur sleeves for a modern spin on a retro look.  I thought that this was also a look that works for warmer as well as cooler weathers.

It is definitely a wearable and simple collection, but one that enables you to experience a new take on a familiar favorite.  I also love that BCBG is relatively affordable (watch those sales lovelies!) so many more of us can rock color blocked frocks.

{Source}

Fashion Highlight: Floral Mod Elegance via Nahm Autumn/Winter 2012-2013

Sometimes a single image can captivate me.

I was browsing through NYFW photos and actually got drawn into the background of these photos for Nahm Autumn/Winter 2012-2013 (I know, it should be about the clothing!)  But this small, curated collection is both distinct, but pretty and wearable.  I love the inspiration of floral touches even if it is only in the sleeves or a patch of a skirt.  It also reminds me of how much more versatile floral prints become when it is done in a sheer fabric.  Trends come and go (hmm Marc Jacob, oversized Mary Poppins hats - not sure how long I'd rock that!), but elegant silhouettes remain.

Now that is fashion I can really appreciate (and is inspiration that can be found at a variety of price points!)  After all, sometimes don't you just want to wear something that is just plain pretty, and not just fashionable for the season?

{Source}

{Fashion} Highlight: Christian Dior Couture Spring Summer 2012

The 1950s are in.

Or at least the fashion of the 1950s is in.  It began with the styles seen in the ever popular series "Mad Men" and then briefly "Pan Am".  But it continues off the screen and onto the runway, especially in the designs seen on the runway for Christian Dior Couture Spring Summer 2012.

I love the full skirt, opera length gloves, and cinched waist of the first look.  This is definitely a great look to replicate and celebrates the lady in all of us.  I would also love a severe A-line skirt with a lovely petticoat peeking through - it's brazenly feminine and unapologetically fun as is a traditional pencil skirt in an unexpected print and color.  The last few pieces were retro and modern at the same time.  The gradient coloring and luxurious layering made these classic styles new.

I didn't know until now that I needed a fun pencil skirt and now I can't wait to get one (ahh and to have this  one!)

{Fashion} Highlight: Chanel Spring Summer 2012 takes flight

Ahh to have sat in one of the "first class" or even "business class" seats at Chanel Spring/Summer!  The airport runway was recreated with this show and the clothing was somewhat of a 1960s homage to flight attendants (err if flight attendants wore Chanel of course!)  Jackets and cuts were boxy and waists were undefined.  While the silhouette wasn't fitted (I normally don't' even take a second glance at dresses with a boxier shape), the detail was typically Chanel and typically divine.  I loved the large beads on the bodice of the dress below - they make a bold statement on a simple dress.  I also think a gradient tweed jacket should be in the works for me some day.
The mixed sizes of the stones and the tulle cape also make the first dress a quirky and wonderful wedding gown alternative no? It is all in the details (hmm or a fab DIY if you had the time)...

{Source}