Preview: Tracy Reese Spring 2010 + 5 Fall Take-Aways

The Tracy Reese spring 2010 collection is a study of juxtapositions; the contrast between architectural and relaxed silhouettes, hard and soft, sheer and opaque. Femininity enlivens current wardrobes, with a focus on draping and ruching and modern embellishments. Intense color combinations, vivacious prints and multi-layered shapes inject Reese’s spring collection with positivity. “To enter spring with a modern and upbeat attitude we used vibrant hues and the combination of architectural shapes and easy folds on drapey materials. A passion fruit surplice frock in a relaxed, draped silhouette with textural embellishment is the perfect piece to kick off the season with a look that is elegant with edge,” Tracy Reese, Designer and Founder.

While, I've never been to a Tracy Reese show, I really do admire her glam style. Reese is always able to capture the trends of the moment without looking fashion victimy. Her Fall 09 Collection featured 5 take-aways that I think are perfect to take you into Fall 09 dressing.

1. The Beanie

2. Pairing Subdued Pastels with Black

3. Sparkle and Lace

4. Mixing Textures with prints

5.Over the knee socks

Preview: Topshop Fall 2009 Designer Shoes

This Fall Topshop has a number of upcoming designer collaborations for footwear for September including designs by Peter Jensen and Preen.

Preen's Justin Thornton and Thea Bregazzi created a simple yet chic look in black suede. A black court shoe with trapunto detailing ( $180) and a very on trend thigh high boot.

Peter Jensen on the flip side was inspired by Greenland and hence brings you white leather with crafty detailing. Lacing and scalloped trim on the ankle boots ($280); ribbing and ditsy florals on the the thigh high version ($400).

What do you think of these collabs? Would you wear them or would you rather pick up something else for this price?

Preview: Suzanna Dai Fall 2009

Antwerp Collection

Back in March, I posted an interview with up and coming jewelry designer, Suzie Gallehugh (of Suzanna Dai). She had told us that for Fall 2009 she was going to bring us "more neutral colors, but still with a lot of glitz". Just this week she launched her sophomore effort and I really love the results.

Antwerp Necklace on Blake Lively

My fave piece was actually one I saw on the designer herself a couple months ago. She had told me it was for her upcoming Fall line so I was super excited to see more! The necklace is from the Antwerp Collection, it's a bold piece but is full of intricate details from metal beadwork and delicate chains. If you think it looks a little familiar, perhaps you caught a glimpse it on Blake Lively during Gossip Girl!

I also thought that the baroque feeling I got from the St Petersburg collection would definitely make dark romance kind of statement! The satin cord, jet beading and mesh overlay make it fit for a modern day Czarina.

Finally, I also appreciated the fun tropical but earthy feel of the Amazonia collection which features real beetle wings!

Also important to note, Suzie also brought back my previous fave style the Monte Carlo, in a whole new variety of shades including amethyst, noir and bronze.

The Suzanna Dai collection is currently available at:
Bergdorf Goodman, Takashimaya, Sucre and Debut in New York;
Sassanova in Baltimore and Washington, DC
Fred Segal Rocks (Los Angeles)
Vermillion (Raleigh, NC)
Calypso stores nationwide

Prices start at $165 for earrings, $245 for cuffs and $365 for necklaces. For more info and to see more collections please visit SuzannaDai.com.

So Rad Right Now

Last week, Rad Hourani debuted his secondary, more affordable line Rad by Rad Hourani at The Yard at Soho Grand. I think Highsnobette said it best. Rad Hourani's pieces "have enough edge and contruction to appeal to men and enough style and sexiness to appeal to women."

The collection will be available in stores and online at radbyradhourani.com late November, and prices will range from $100 to $400.

As you've probably noticed from my style diary, I'm obsessed with color, but I love Hourani's use of black, white and gray. The simple palette keeps the focus on the design and subtle details. I just love the balance of structured and slouchy!

I think Rad Hourani will be the next Alexander Wang. He's already made fans of Vogue Italia, Style.com, Jak and Jil and Refinery 29. And he's only had three collections!

Awhile back my friend Steven called me up during Fall 09 Fashion Week to tell me he saw the most amazing show, Rad Hourani. He also went to the after party and met Hourani. If only I hadn't caught the flu the night before! You can see a few of Steven's pictures on his blog, and here's a video of Rad Hourani Fall Winter 09.

Video Lookbook:Jojo & Malou Fall Winter 2009

Thank you to Dream Sequins for turning me onto this video lookbook. It's from London label Jojo & Malou for Fall Winter 2009.

The collection looks awesome. It's a bit crazy with shiny sequins, tribal fringe, graphic prints and bold colors, but that's just the way I like it.

I love that so many designers are jumping on the video lookbook bandwagon. Video is the future, and the future is now.

Trends: Would You Wear No Pants?

They do it on the runway at Pucci Spring 2009 and Prada Fall 2009.

They do it on the subway (for NYC's Annual Pants Free Subway Ride)

Lady Gaga is doing it.

And now Chanel Iman at the Matthew Williamson for H&M Party

But just because you can doesn't mean it's a good idea. Pants exist for a reason, but for some reason they seem to be cause for a minor fashion rebellion lately. This look might work on the runway, but in real life I think people need pants, leggings or a the least opaque tights! Cause no matter how skinny you are (look at Chanel) it looks like you forgot something at home....sorry to say it but, ahem! Fashion Victim anyone?

Interview: Rich & Skinny Designer Joie Rucker

Previously you might remember me raving about the amazing comfort of Rich & Skinny denim. They are seriously one of the most comfortable pairs of jeans I have ever owned! I can't speak highly enough about the satin waistband and almost no abrasion seaming!!!

So I was super excited when I had the chance to catch up with Joie Rucker, denim designer extraordinaire who is now working with Michael Glaser on the Rich & Skinny line. Between the two of them they have over 50 years of experience working in denim...so serious Cred!!! Her jeans are available for purchase on the Rich & Skinny Website, Revolve Clothing and Nordstrom.com.

Joie tells us about her "secret" denim care trick and what types of jeans work best for curvy women, her design philosophy and what's in work for Fall 2009. Plus we have Fall 2009 preview images from the Rich & Skinny lookbook! Enjoy :)

xoxo

SRC: Hi Joie! We are so glad that you could take the time to do this interview with us. I’ve always been a fan of the high quality, amazing comfort and great fit of your designs!

SRC: Was it a difficult to leave Joie, the namesake company you founded?
Joie Rucker : Yes- it was very difficult and no bueno. However, we all have lessons in life and that was one of mine.
However, Serge Azria, the current owner of Joie Jeans, has done a good job with the brand.
I am happy to see that he has continued the "Joie" vibe and been successful with it.

SRC: Who doesn’t want to look rich and skinny? Is that always in the front ground of your designs?
JR: Whenever I am designing, my primary focus is how my customers will look and feel in the clothes. I want them to feel "rich and skinny"... Another not-so-controversial way of saying it, would be that I want them to feel the luxury of the garments in terms of quality and I want the garment to compliment their shape- no matter what the size or curves.

SRC: I love your philosophy that people should wear the jeans that they feel most comfortable in; it’s not a matter of just following the trends. Do you have any tips for cuts that our readers should buy to flatter their different body types? Ie. curvy, boyish figure, shorter ladies etc?
JR: Yes, I hate seeing "fashion victims" (people that wear something only because of trend).
Trends are great and fun, but not every trend works for every person.
There are general rules of proportion that apply to different body types, i.e.. curvy bodies look better in slightly higher waisted boot cut jeans than in skinnies because the boot leg will balance the hip curve in the eye of the observer.
A higher waist will accentuate the positive curve above the hip.
That said, Curvy women can look good in the right skinny, it all comes down to fit.
Fit in a jean is everything and I pride myself in making fits that can compensate for figure "flaws" and allow more women to wear various style options and still look good.

SRC: Joie, I know that you must love denim more than anyone with a collection of 400 pairs of vintage denim plus denim you wear on an everyday basis! Where do you keep them all?
JR: If I told you and would have to kill you :)!

SRC: Do you remember the moment that you first fell in love with denim?
JR: I first fell in love with denim when I bought and started wearing my shrink-to-fit button fly red tab 501 Levis jeans (this was before "premium" or E). As they started to wear in, each rip, tear and scuff became a memory and the jeans started to take on the feel of being a diary of my life. I know, sounds strange, but the magic and allure of indigo is thousands of years old.

I'm just one of the latest indigo "kooks" and my love affair continues...

SRC: Any denim crimes our readers should be avoid? Or is all fair in love and denim?
JR: All's Fair... except I really hate it when people brag about buying a pair of jeans cheap and I look at the quality of the jean and where they were made and it's not the USA.

People don't realize that when they brag about a good price, there's a reason, either the quality, the treatment of the workers, or the designs are compromised. To a trained eye, you can see them coming down the block, but your average customer won't know the difference until they have owned the jean for a while and it starts falling apart. I try to make jeans that will someday be bought in second hand boutiques, I want our jeans to last...All of our denim is made in Los Angeles.

SRC: What’s the best way to care for your denim? I heard you have a special freezer trick ;)
JR: The best way to keep denim looking great and if you are a denim aficionado, build the best broken-in finish, is not wash them as much as possible.

One way to keep from having to wash is to put the jean in a freezer bag and freeze for a few hours. The freezing process kills any bacteria that can cause odor, however it won't help remove dirt or stains.

If you must wash, cold water with the least amount of detergent is best. Low heat dryer if necessary.

But don't make yourself crazy...nothing is "wrong" with washing when needed...

SRC: Are there any washes or detailing that you think will really take off in 2009? I was personally admiring the neon denim in your Spring 09 lookbook, super fun!
JR: I love the neons too- especially neon pink which we did as a special color for Intermix storeas in NYC.
We also have some amazing "destroyed" finishes that are fun for summer and my favorite wash for Fall is our "Mended Heart" wash in my Skinny Boyfriend fit. Mended heart is a vintage wash and I added small details of iron-on patches over small holes. I love it and think it looks very authentic.

SRC: Aside from denim, what’s your guilty pleasure?
JR: I have sooo many!!! Aside from being a surfer and a read-a-holic... it's Shoes and Lingerie - just like every other girl!

SRC: What are three things you can’t live without?
JR: Things? Ok- My Wayne Rich 9'6" tri-fin (long board), my hanky panky's and my grandmother's cowboy boots! I know, strange combo...

SRC: You just launched your men’s line Rich by Rich and Skinny earlier this year, do you have any plans for future expansion?
JR: I love the men's line and it's still just developing... we have a small fan base building. We have kept the distribution very limited but the need for great fitting, comfortable Men's denim is definitely there. We have some really great fits and finishes and I have been getting really good feedback from all of my guy friends... I am currently focused on expanding Rich and Rich & Skinny, but you never know what the future holds.... I will keep you posted!!!

SRC: Thank you so much Joie for joining us!
JR: Thanks for having me and for helping to get the word out!! You guys rock! Love Joie

Preview: Anzevino & Florence Fall 2009

Anzevino & Florence (AZFN) is one of my absolute favorite lines right now. They're an LA-based duo, William Anzevino and Richard Florence, and true artists. They met when they were commissioned by the Andy Warhol Museum to develop a line of t-shirts and what happened from there is the line you see today.

What I love about Anzevino & Florence their ability to contrast soft with structured. Many of their pieces are made of incredibly soft modal or silk while still maintaining strong and architectural design. Above all, I love the unique, yet simple silhouettes.

A few weeks back, Erin and I were got a chance to take a sneak peak at their fall 2009 collection. I did a lot of gasping. Here are some pictures of our favorite pieces.

1. Mesh satin tank. I hate the words hot and sexy because both words connote cheesiness, but really, isn't this hot? I love how the mesh and the layering of materials create the illusion of color blocking.

2. All black leather top dress. It's hard to tell from the picture, but the dress is made of two materials. I'm not sure what the bottom half is, but the top is leather. Love the two textures and the cutout! This dress would look great with some studded ankle boots or buckled boots.

3. Cropped trouser pants. These bottoms are great, simple and chic. They could be dressed up with a nice blouse and closed toe heels or dressed down with a soft tank and sandal wedges.

4. Oversized cardigan. A signature Anzevino & Florence piece, I have been lusting over this cardigan for months. It was great to see the piece in person because it was even softer than I expected. The piece is incredibly voluminous, but since the material is sheer, you won't look frumpy. Just pair with snug jeans.

5. Oversized tee. Another signature Anzevino & Florence piece with great draping.

If you'd like to check out more from Anzevino & Florence, check out their website at azfn.com. And you can shop their current spring collection at Revolve Clothing and 80's Purple.

Trends: Manish Loafer

Fall 2009 at Ports 1961, Giles

Fall 2009 at Comme des Garçons, Christopher Kane

In contrast to the sky high platform shoes of the runways, some designers decided to give women a few more practical options. A take on masculine footwear including styles like lace up brogues & loafers were seen at a multitude of designers. I personally love the look, it's so classy! Especially the versions shown at Ports 1961 and Giles! Look for black shine leather and classic detailing.

Here are a few places to get the look now:
Melissa has a yellow rubber version for $70
Jeffrey Campbell has a feminine 2 tone version on sale for $79.95
Topshop has a fun pink or silver version of Brogues available for $125.
Repetto has a great metallic version for $295
Church's has a similar one to Ports 1961 for $470
Marc Jacob's has a gold and canvas version for $785

Preview: Paul & Joe Sister Fall 2009, Top 10 Looks

Thanks to the wonderful folks at Dietch PR & Caro Marketing, Lani and I got a chance to attend a preview event to check out some upcoming collections of various designers.

Paul & Joe Sister, the diffusion line of Sophie Albou's Paul & Joe, was one of the largest collections we saw at the event! I think they were saying that it's actually over 500 pieces including shoes, handbags and belts. So there is definitely something for everyone. We've picked out our top 10 faves from this collection to share!

1. Isn't the whimsical rabbit in the magician's hat adorable? So is the shape of the tee, I think the cocoon shape is very now and would look great over skinny acid wash jeans or leggings.
2. Love this sweater vest. The chunky double breasted heather yarn would look great over boot cut jeans or cropped trousers!

3. The Band Jacket! This is the must have item that's been seen on many a catwalk. The sequin trim makes this one stand out above the rest! The 80s are so hot right now!
4. The Little Black Dress - This one is so simple yet so modern! I loved the pockets and how clean the lines were.

5. The Long Sequin Vest, this little number can add sparkle to any outfit! So practical! Over jeans, trousers, leggings, dresses and skirts!
6. The One Shoulder Dress - I thought this ruffled plaid one shoulder was romantic and dramatic.

7. The Folksy Ditsy Floral Dress - This one has just the right amount of charm and nostalgia without being too retro or overly sweet.
8. The Perfect Moto Jacket - Such a key item that can transform many a look, whether it be weekend chic with skinny jeans and flats or tough beauty paired over a soft summer dress. I loved that this one was actually a dark grey and the leather was soft but not the super buttery kind that will stretch out or get damaged easily. This leather had good weight to it!

9. The Dangerous Cropped Boot. Chain trim adds a glam edgy feel to any of your outfits. So fun yet so wearable!

10. Two Times the Bag. This bag was super great! I've seen a lot of convertable bags on the market, but it's so refreshing to finally see something different from the Foley+Corrina City Tote that I've seen all over NYC!