February 11, 2010

Alexander McQueen (1969-2010)

 

Among the ranks of Karl Lagerfeld, Jean Paul Gautier, and John Galliano-the kings of luxury craftsmanship that have kept Paris in reign of fashion's dictatorship-Alexander McQueen made his mark after being christened by the French to design for couture house Givenchy. After five years, he'd had enough, and went on to launch his own label. He built an empire of a brand with his truly British spirit, while still showing and exerting his influence from Paris. 

There is no other fashion designer that was able to marry a deep rebellion in artistry and a commitment to appreciation for beauty quite like McQueen. His designs, while elaborate, were ofter gothic, dark, and shocking. According to Deluxe: How Luxury Lost its Luster, McQueen stormed out of a meeting with Bernard Arnault, after being handed an opportunity at LVMH any designer would kill for. Arnault knew his rage would set fire to his creativity..yet it was still perfectly disciplined. 

Girls of today's generation don't love Chanel like they do McQueen. He was always protective of a woman's inner animal or alien; beauty was not barbie-like to him. He honored individuality, and will never be forgotten as one of the leaders in today's changing world of fashion. He once said: "It's a new era in fashion-there are no rules. It's about the individual and personal style, wearing high-end, low-end, classic labels, and up-and-coming designers all together." He will never be replaced.


  
 
  
  
 

February 9, 2010

J Crew Revisited


These past few months, J Crew has been catching my eye more and more. And not because of Michelle Obama. Jenna Lyon, the brand's creative director, has really allowed it to take flight. The formerly preppy brand has been introducing romance, glamour and the spirit of travel to its collection. It was always the brand whose catalog you'd anticipate. Famous for mix-and-match swimsuit separates, platform wedge flip flops in every color and classic cardigan sets. The prepsters decked out in their slacks and scoop necks. From vintage-inspired jewels to panama hats to embellished leather bags and distressed ruffle, I've never seen the brand so inspired or full or personality. Check out the site for Jenna's Eye Candy.

P.S. J Crew is also making wedding dresses..Weddings & Parties. Talk about Ambitious..


February 6, 2010

It's Still Rock & Roll to Me


Remember how we anticipated style in the new Millenium? Would we have purple triangular collars like Judy Jetson? Would individuality be sacrificed for the greater good and mankind be forced to wear uniforms, like in Demolition Man? Unless you count Gareth Pugh's dystopic-like creations and Alexander McQueen's alien shoes, fashion is still headed for the past. Because like history, it repeats itself. Designers are easing into denim use, as it's now a mainstream luxury comparable to leather. Blending the best of both worlds is how designers like Alexander Wang and Helmut Lang are invoking the 80's to set mass trends. Welcome back to the age of jive.

 
Burberry Prorsum PF10, G-Star SS10, Rag & Bone SS10


From top left: Yigal Azourel jacket $979, Rick Owens jacket $1373, Alexander Wang bag $780, Mango jacket $44.99. From bottom left: Helmut Lang jacket $780 and skirt $275. Alice + Olivia dress $495 and pants $297.