Currently Obsessing: Monday Edition

These original paintings by theblackapple on Etsy! Reasonably priced and absolutely stunning, these paintings are sure to spruce up any living area. Definitely going to purchase more than one!

Dark Parables: The Red Riding Hood Sisters Collector's Edition game by Blue Tea Games. The fourth edition in this story of Parables. So much fun! The Order of Red Riding Hood Sisters need help defeating the Wolf Queen. Beautiful graphics, as always.

This Autumn inspired outfit by Choix! They are women's boutique that featured boho and vintage inspired clothing. Super cute and very affordable!

This adorable outfit done by bloger Julie Leah! I love the fox, such a cute print for Autumn.

I want, I need! This vintage pink polka dot sequined sweater is ADORABLE!

LFW Spring 2013 RTW

Burberry Prorsum

You can never go wrong with Hyde Park as a destination for a brand that obviously knows how to set the stage for London Fashion Week. Being able to watch the live feed of the show was the icing on top of the already luxurious cake. With background music from the likes of Tom Odell and Ren Harvieu, the setting was that of a seductive and entrancing one. Each piece was singing with an Autumn shade (dark greens and blues) to hues of lingerie pieces (shell pink and beige.) The biggest trend that walked down the runway was that of a structured cape that settled just perfectly over the shoulders. Rounded off perfectly on the curve of the arm to create a very feminine silhouette.

 

Erdem

With inspiration from Monet present in tons of Erdem collections in the past, it was no surprise to see it again for Spring 2013. A palette of florals that reminiscent of his waterlilies, they came in several bright and colorful hues. Dresses made of organza that easily flow in the wind, were woven with neon oranges and yellows, bright baby blues, and red roses that look soft to the touch. Chic accessories adorned the models, from vintage sunglasses, little snake skin gloves, and rhinestone-collared necklaces. Even if the lights did go out halfway through the show, the pieces in this collection shined in the darkness.

Mary Katrantzou

The placements of stamp motifs with serrated edges were show throughout this Spring 2013 collection. Mary has a whimsical way of incorporating Greek and Asian elements into her dresses that end up looking absolutely flawless. Greek key patterns were printed on flat, swingy planes of A-line dresses. Deep inverted pleats held surprises within them. Each stamp had a certain element to it, whether it was a butterfly or a landscape. There was a beautiful intricacy to each dress and design, and the colors incorporated with them were astounding. It was visually appealing and extremely flattering.

 

Matthew Williamson

Shades of fuschia and turquoise, or hot-and-cold color combs were the rage at Matthew Williamson. We got a kaleidoscopic look into the mind of someone who has worked with Kate Moss and Jade Jagger. Silk shirtdresses and crossed bodices adorned the models. It was like looking into a microscope of the future and what all the limitless possibilites that lay ahead of us.

 

Michael van der Ham

With an inspiration of Spanish artists on his mind, Michael van der Ham created a collection for Spring 2013 that would rightfully live up to each of his favorite paintings. With aqua florals taking a stand in the collection, they came in dimensional patterns that were very stylized. Subtle sequins adorned with abstract patterns. The fabric hugged the body, making the silhouette uber feminine. Tons of double layers which makes it easy to combine patterns. Absolutely breathtaking.

Paul Smith

Paul Smith is an absolutely master at tailoring. So Spring 2013 for him has no shortage of modern mixed with classic renditions. Light woolen blazers mixed with paneled silk. Pants were made sure to be pressed and flat-ironed to create a sleek silhouette. Tons of color-blocking was present, mixed with a floral motif. It was quirky and upbeat, which is exactly what you want to be in Spring.

 

Temperley London

"Return to Elegance" is the name Temperley London came up with as the title for her Spring 2013 collection. It does not disappoint in that area. This collection was completely inspiring. As a lover of 1940s and 1950s fashion, this collection was to die for. It reminded me of a woman you would see in "Mad Men", you know, the woman who is modern for her time and effortlessly gorgeous. With a template of colors ranging from scarlet to pale blue, this collection showed an intense work of craftmanship.



NYFW: Spring 2013 RTW

Alice + Olivia 

     For Spring 2013, the Alice + Olivia girl lives in 1950s chic. An 'American dream' silhouette with little white gloves and cardigans that drape over her shoulders. Dresses that you can wear after hours and feel flirty in. Bright colors that won't attract too much attention to a girl that is sweet to the core. 

 

Badgley Mischka 

     With inspiration from 'A Midnight Summer's Dream', the Badgley Mischka girl is one who likes to frolick in the woods. She doesn't care if her updo comes undone, it just adds to the overall appearance she creates. She wears gowns that sparkle and are adorned with tulle and lace. She is ethereal for Spring. 

Carmen Marc Valvo 

     Oversized peplums, bold and bright red and blues, and glitter everywhere. The Carmen Marc Valvo wearer is a sophisticated woman who knows what she wants and gets it by wearing all or nothing style choices. But she also knows that you should always be restrained too, with pretty floral prints and beaded sheaths.

 

Christian Siriano



     The Christian Siriano woman is inspired by the ballet. She's intricate and articulate. Liking to dance in soft pinks and blues, and most especially gorgeous shades of white. She likes elegant, structured dresses that are embellished with feathers and pearls. Spring 2013 will be her season.

 

Jason Wu 



     With inspiration from some "erotically charged" images by Helmut Lang and the "dream-like" photographs of Lillian Bassman, the Jason Wu woman is magically combined in her style for Spring 2013. She can be lady like and bad ass at the same time. She can expose skin in tasteful leather harnesses. Her palette of colors are muted, like dark blues and darker hues of white.

 

Monique Lhuiller 

     The Monique Lhuiller woman is inspired by Claude Monet. She finds the beauty that is underneath the water's surface. Being comfortable in her own skin, she can wear bodycon printed sheaths to strapless dresses with peplums. The red carpet will stand in stark contrast to the ethereal and gorgeous shades of blue for Spring 2013. 

 



Karen Walker 

     The Karen Walker woman is a little offbeat, but that's only because she has her own sense of style. High-waisted pants, funky prints and sweet frocks are a must for her wardrobe. Pastels and luminescent fabrics offer a feminine touch. She also likes being a tomboy by the way her outfits fit her body, but that's to be comfortable during Spring. 

 





 Marc by Marc Jacobs 









     The Marc by Marc Jacobs wearer is women and men. They are the "cool kids" in school. You know, the ones who you envy because they are always wearing the latest trends. These women and men wear stripes and layers because it's just what they do. They look back on different eras and incorporate it into their wardrobe. Gingham prints and rebel hues will all be in their sights for Spring 2013.

 

 Oscar de la Renta 

     You can do no wrong with the ODLR woman. She's a classic. Her silhouette is reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn. She knows a well tailored pencil skirt and blazer will never go out of style. She's whimsical and chic. Modesty is her strong suit, always making sure her skirt ends over her knee. Not saying that a small slit on her dress, that shows a hint of leg, is too risque. Her Spring 2013 will be pops of pink, blues, and greens.

 

Reem Acra 

     The well-dressed woman wears Reem Acra. She's a woman-about-town. Sexy dresses and gowns with daring illusions will no doubt delight the wearer. Her silhouette is show stopping and sexy. Spring 2013 will bring out sequins and glitter.   

Tadashi Shoji 

     The Tadashi Shoji woman travels The Silk Road. She begins her travels in Italy and ventures all the way to China. Stopping along the way with capped sleeves and lace skirts. She loves embroidery that showcases neutrals, reds, and blues. Her Spring will be busy.

 

Tory Burch 

     The Tory Burch woman for Spring 2013 is going to be boho chic. She wears fitted skirts, longer hems, and obsesses over embellished jackets. She enjoys Spring's sunny days, and often grows flowers in her garden.  











6 Fall 2012 Beauty Trends

1. The smoky eye

• The smoky eye is a sexy and edgy beauty trend that has been a staple for almost every woman that wants a sleek and confident look. For Autumn 2012, it's deep, rich colors that were seen on the runway. Creating this look is quite easy. I recommend using Maybelline's Eye Studio Color Explosion Luminizing Eyeshadow, or MAC's Eye Shadow in Freshwater for a cool and fun look.

2. Hair jewelry

• As one of my favorite trends for this Fall, hair accessories have become more ornate and luxurious. Seen on celebrities and on the runway, these headbands and barrettes can serve as a beautiful and stylish backdrop for hair styles. Pair them with a side swept bang, a top bun, or long curls.

3. Colorful tips

• As this trend has been around since Spring, it doesn't look like it's going anywhere for Fall. This is such a versatile idea, you can paint your whole nail and then change up the tip. Or just color the tip and it makes your whole nail liven up. For this season, make the base of the nail a rich color like burgandy, and have thin strips of beige. Makes for a fun and flirty nail. I suggest using O.P.I. or Essie for long lasting color.

4. Braids

• Braids are functional, and a chic alternative to other hairstyles. They have depth, and create a sleek look. A pulled back braid, whether it's in a bun or in a ponytail, can create a strong look in the front and a feminine look in the back. From fishtails to waterfalls, there are plenty of different techniques to play with.

5. The Bordeaux lip

• The best way to update your lips for fall is to pair a deeply stained, crimson shade with a simple face for contrast and drama. This look is bold, and while it may be dark, it's super sexy. I recommend using M.A.C Pro Longwear Absolutely It Lip Pencil to create smooth lines.

6. Rosy Cheeks

• While I may never use this, kind-of sucks when you have super fair skin and you naturally have them. This trend is blooming and comes after some inspiration for a "natural" flushed look. Think if you come inside after being outside in cold weather, or an hour in the hot tub. Or geting racier, after you've had sex. I recommend using MAC cheek powder that comes in several different hues of pink and red.