THE FASHION ISSUE
The Next
GENERATION of designers
HOT CHILD
CITY
IN THE
FALL TRENDS: what to wear? Stitching to g e t h e r a
Story
Mindy White SEPTEMBER 2011
The Evolution
of ONLIne SHOPPING
& BLOGS Falling for SUMMER
FASHION
MASTHEAD
Editor
in
Chief:
Assistant
to the
Jeremy Fall
Debbie Gardner
Editor
in
Chief:
P h o t o g r ap h y C o n t e n t M a n a g e r : Ashley Vied
G r ap h i c D e s i g n : Juliana Mi Christina Li
H ea d P h o t o g r ap h e r : Dirk Mai
Editors:
Cynthia Almanzar Kristine Fellizar Melissa Darcey Ryan Steward
Contributing Writers:
Camelle Dumo Ian Michael Kintzle Kailan Kalina M a r i o W e dd e l l Megan Portorreal Olivia Krawczyk Rachel Vincent Sarah Lorsch Tatiana Craine
P h o t o g r ap h e r s : Viona Dashdot Caitlin Bellah Gu Yifei Dan Santoso Jayden Tang Benjamin Kwan Julia Popova Kirill Mikhirev Andreas Gradin John Howells
September
Cliché Picks: 2 0 1 1 S h o pp i n g G u i d e The Fashion Newbies
Stitching Together A Story Falling
for
Summer Fashion
The Evolution
of
S h o pp i n g
The Fall of Giants: Galliano’s Tumble and the Self-Destruction of the Artist
How
to
From Passion to Profession: Create Your Own Fashion Line Ghosts
of
Mindy White: & Fashion Icon
From Wearing Designer Duds to Creating: Celebrities Turned Designers Hot Child
to
in the
City
The Must-Have Additions your Fall 2011 Wardrobe
The Next Generation of Designers: Who to look for in future Vogues Fashion Illustration: An Organic and Inspirational Staple to th Fashion World She Will Be Loved The Mistakes We Made
CONTENTS
Musician
Fashion’s Past: The New Icons
TABLE OF
Runway Report
LETTER
FROM THE EDITOR
It’s about mid-august right now and I know a lot of you are dreading the abrupt change of weather along with school starting. The summer is finally over and I’m very pleased to bring you all our first fall issue since Cliché’s relaunch. This one is usually my favorite because I have a lot more room to brainstorm creative concepts with our photographers, and really go crazy with ideas and themes. I know you might not be able to enjoy flipping through our content in between pool and tanning sessions, but I hope that what you’re about to read gives you a reason to be excited for the shift in seasons. Welcome to Cliché’s September 2011 fashion issue, I hope you love this one as much as we did. - Jeremy Fall http://www.twitter.com/jeremyfall http://www.jeremyfall.com
CLICHÉ
We are not here to save the world, but we will help reduce C02 emissions by not contributing to the thousands of magazines, who kill trees every year. We are proud to say that we’re not contributing to this worldwide issue, and we are here to encourage others to do the same. ClichÊ Magazine is also powered by Dreamhost, a hosting company that is also doing their part to be conscious of their surroundings.
Midi is the new min
the new maxi. All in
to come up with the
blank” phrase so I ca
back tears every tim to use it, say aye.
MIDI
MARIE TURNER BAG I was not one of those lucky kids who got to carry her lunch to school in a paper bag after the Age of The Lunchbox ended in 5th grade. Mom made me carry a nylon lunch bag every day, because it was insulated, and I had to beg in my sophomore year for paper bags. I never had cold Capri Sun again, but dammit, it was worth it. Now I can relive my teenage struggles with possibly the coolest clutch of them all, a Marie Turner leather paper bag.
$8-$51 Moleskines are the notebook standby for
$175
images cou c a n A p pa r e tin, wiki General S
artists, students, and people who scribble like they’ve got a compulsion (they don’t call ‘em legendary for nothing).
MOLESKINES
C
ini is the new mini and
in favor of a think tank
e next “blank is the new
HANNAH MARTIN JEWELRY
an stop having to choke
me I see it impossible not
It’s pricey, but Hannah Martin’s jewelry is some of the most unique stuff I’ve seen so
$60
urtesy of Ameriel, Hannah Marh o w, M o w h a w k Store, Moleskin
far this year. For all you guys sick of your round spacers and studs, check out her open triangle studs.
$250 (₤150) If you’ve ever been to camp, or were a pre-teen girl before the word tween was invented, you probably have some familiarity with the candy-colored thread bracelets that were most elementary school kids’ accessory of choice. Wonderful news for the nostalgic: the style set has remembered these charming little trinkets, and a bevy of designers have done their own take on the friendship bracelet. Learn to make your own for a much cheaper DIY option.
FRIENDSHIP BRACELETS
SEPTEMBER
S K C I P É H CLIC
R E B M E T P SE
images courtes S h o p, N a s t y G a l C e r e m o n y, T h a y Shoes
CLICHÉ PICKS FLARES
$85
I’ve been telling everyone for a while that the 1970s are finally seriously back, in the same way they were back in the 90s. I am still incredibly excited about this, and you should be too, because it means the end of the much loved, will be popular again in 2020, super skinny jean. Flares are here again, and for back-to school pairing them with a breezy top and heels is the way to go.
OAT SHOES Have you ever wished that your kicks were actually flowerbeds? No? Well, let’s pretend you have, and let the good people over at Oat Shoes show you how to make all of your wildest dreams come true. Their completely biodegradable seed embedded shoes look no less cool than ones you’d find at Urban or Foot Locker, but when you’re done with them, you can bury your old sneakers and watch a miniature flower garden grow in a couple of weeks. And the sole makes for wicked awesome footprints.
$230 (€275)
THAYLOR SKATEBOARD
s y o f To p l, Opening y l o r , Oat
You know that kid who skateboards to school every day in sunglasses and a tee, even in the middle of December? Well, if that kid and Frank Gehry got together for Jamba Juice and/ or
S
whiskey sours, this might be some of the loveliness that would ensue.
$275
RODARTE BAG 8 Rodarte hasn’t really been doing anything but incredibly wonderful, original, heart breakingly expensive things for a few years now, and frankly this bag is no different. But I can’t think of a cooler bag to tote your books (sorry leather lunch bag, our affair was short lived), and I can also see some serious DIY potential in this one.
$750
JEFFREY CAMPBELL SHOES Jeffrey Campbell shoes have been alternatively mocked and mooned over, but no matter what side of the tiff you’re on these amazing cut out wedges probably have you drooling (even if it’s only on the inside).
$175
Felicity Brown’s S k y R u f f l e To p
Photo courtesy of youngbritisdesigers.com
Dion Lee’s
Grey Marle Drape Jersey Dress Photo courtesy of Frockaholics.com
M i c h a e l va n d e r H a m ’ s C o m b i n at i o n D r e s s
Photo courtesy of B row n s fas h i o n . c o m
tHe fAShiOn newBiEs K
a i l a n
K
a l i n a
If you have ever watched the television show Project Runway, you have undoubtedly heard host and model Heidi Klum’s famous phrase, “one day you are in, and the next day...you’re out,” referring to designers in the fashion world. This isn’t necessarily true for world-renowned designers like Dior or Versace who will always be “in” and have established a firm, everlasting grasp in this industry. But for new designers, the limelight is not guaranteed. Upholding a name for themselves and luring in fashion bugs everywhere can be an unforgiving journey. Currently, a number of up-and-coming designers are successfully capturing the attention of clothing lovers everywhere. Having worked their way up and debuting masterpieces of their own, they may finally be getting their big break in 2011.
for the UltrA-FEmme gaL
...
Felicity Brown is a 32-year-old from London who gained experience working for Alberta Ferretti, Mulberry and Lanvin prior to establishing her own line. Her hand-dyed, colorful frocks are inspired by women of the Arab Bedouin ethnic group and the etching in Picasso’s pieces. In her spring/summer collection, she incorporates lots of layered ruffles crafted with strips of bright and watercolor-toned fabrics.
thE MiShmasH mAn Dutch designer Michael van der Ham has displayed quite a knack for the use of cutouts of collaged solids and patterns. While he does combine contrasting colors and textures, he manages to fit them together in a way that makes the overall piece to fit together in an appealing, artsy manner. His iridescent velvet tops and dresses should indeed be noted.
SleEk is hiS midDlE nNme Like the architectural style? Check out Aussie Dion Lee, whose talent resides simply in construction. His tailoring skills combined with experimentation result in slashed seaming that highlights body movement when the outfits are worn. Look for his sophisticated lines in jackets and shirts, knotting, and blotted prints. Other rising stars are Emilio de la Morena, whose clothing has a Spanish vibe (thanks to his heritage). He creates sound yet smooth silhouettes with lots of contrast, and fitting but flowing shapes are a staple. Also,Shane Gabier and Christopher Peters partner up and present a line for the modern edgy and feminine woman. Those devoted to fashion will always be faithful to the designers of the ages, but there’s nothing more exciting than a fresh face with innovative collections.
--------------STITCHING TOGETHER A STORY>>> By Mario Weddell <---------------->
photo courtesy of dave lonsdale
As the great Coco Chanel once said, “Fashion is not something that exists in dresses only. Fashion is in the sky, in the street. Fashion has to do with ideas, the way we live, what is happening.” Fashion goes beyond the fabric; designers draw from a wide variety of influences to stitch together a story that can almost make the clothes an afterthought. Like a novelist or a film director, a designer has the power to send an audience a message using the tools of his or her specific art form. You might be thinking, “Yeah, okay, but I’m not buying the clothes for the story. If the story was important, I would save my money by going to a library, picking up some books, and walking around naked.” But what if the clothes could never exist without the story? You might be surprised to know that in the fashion world, the tale comes before the tailor. New York City designer Carlos Campos exemplifies this process in his own work. His Fall/Winter 2011 collection was inspired by a trip to the hometown of the Chilean poet Pablo Neruda. For him, the vision and the inspiration come first, and his collection grows out of his own interests. “I wanted to do something with Pablo [Neruda] because, ever since I was a kid, I used to write poems. Having the opportunity to go to Chile for the first time, that was my first instinct. So,
s o ” w r m. y, ” t n r. e r t, s. ] e e o,
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it becomes a bit personal, each and every collection,” says Campos. Upon returning to New York, he knew that he wanted to present his own version of South American poets in the city. Inspiration alone is not enough, however. Every detail of a presentation or a fashion show has a purpose and helps the audience connect to the story that the designer is telling. Maurilio Carnino, a casting director at MTC Casting in New York, points out the power of the fashion show to give viewers an experience that is entirely unique. Carnino explains, “To me the show starts when the door opens. The door opens, you get inside the venue, and that’s where the story should begin. With the lighting, the music, the atmosphere, the perfume. When the walk begins, it’s pure energy. “The show is about the excitement and the exhibition. It’s a concentration of energy. When you read a book, you’re in a certain state of mind; you want to relax and read in your apartment or on the beach. When you see a movie, you want to lie down and kick back. At a [fashion show], you don’t kick back. At the show, you’re there. It’s like, ‘Boom! I’m in it.”’ In order to create a story, a designer has to find a way to make his or her inspiration concrete. In order to provide an intangible feeling, they depend on tangible details.
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“We do a lot of research,” says Campos. “I don’t even start to sketch or do anything until I have all my facts down. Like, ‘Why are we going to have green in this collection? Because Pablo Neruda [wrote] all his poems in green ink.’ As you go along, you find more meaning to why there are certain colors in the collection. I think if you’re inspired by what you love, then you have to go deeper and find elements that make more sense with your collection.” Carnino is confident that those details are not lost on the audience. In some way or another, the story always comes through, even if the public is not aware that they are experiencing it. As he sees it, “Automatically, I feel like on a highfashion runway, the show is coming out of the story. When I meet with designers, they show me their inspiration board, and we work from there. “The specialists are aware [of a story] for sure, and the people who work in fashion. The rest of the audience, they will find out. Somebody can recognize a story from the music. Someone can recognize a story from different lighting, or atmosphere, or perfume, or a candle. There are geniuses of the story, like [Alexander] McQueen. One way or another, the public is going to get the story, maybe right at the end [of the show], or maybe even reading an article about it.”
h i g h
f a s h i o n
Queens P h o t o g r a p h y b y V i o n a w w w . v i o n a - a r t. c o m
credits “ V i r g i n
Q u e e n ”
P h o t o g r a p h y : w w w. v i o n a - a r t. c o m Model: Melisse Lis C o s t u m e & s t y l i n g : P i e t e r Va n d e n Z e g e l M a k e u p & h a i r : K ata r i n a G o y va e rt s
“ I n d i g o ” P h o t o g r a p h y : w w w. v i o n a - a r t. c o m Model: Laura Maj Costume: Ian Stuart Headdress in “Indigo-2”: Romain Brau Make up & hair: An Graré
fallin
The weather’s starting to get ier, and you’re realizing the s you’ve been sporting the past has left you in the cold. No w one of the best times of the yea Though the leaves may be ch summer style doesn’t have t do you get to pull out more p wardrobe, but you get to layer
The best looks this autumn w tral colors like beige, tan and splash of color. Girls can add cardigan to a floral sundres with some black stockings an The look is reminiscent of t that’s been gaining in popular over, from the boxy looks of the brightly patterned Misson
sum
ng for Looking for a more office-oriented style? Wear a statement necklace rather than a scarf. Instead of wearing jeans, try a pleated maxi skirt for a free-spirited outfit or a pencil skirt for a professional environment.
shoes for a fun fall look. Take a hint from the Hollywood hotties of yore and check out the smooth James Dean circa Rebel Without a Cause or the scruffy, early Peter Fonda looks for inspiration.
For the universally classic menswear look, take a hint from Proenza Schouler’s line. Couple a pair of skinnies or boot-cut jeans with your favorite summery tank. will mix neu- Top it off with a black or gray blazer, cuff d black with a the sleeves, throw on a pashmina and d a dark-hued you’ve got yourself the perfect ensemble. ss, pairing it nd platforms. Guys can also rock dark denim with a the 70s vibe colorful summer tee and a leather jacket rity the world for a classic look straight out of the retro f Miu Miu to eras. Better yet, layer warm-colored poni collections. los beneath light sweaters paired with jeans and those handy summer boat
Hold on to those sunglasses from the previous months to add that ultracool flair to your wardrobe. Sticking with earth-toned shades will really pop against the changing autumn leaves.
t a little chillsummer gear t few months worries, fall is ar for fashion. hanging, your to. Not only pieces of your r, layer, layer.
Carrying your summer clothes into your fall wardrobe should be a cinch. Just remember to layer tastefully and have fun with what you’ve got in your closet. There’s nothing like discovering a new favorite outfit using the clothes you’ve already got. Tatiana Craine
mmer fashion
obsidian P h oto g r a p hy : J ay de n T a ng w w w . j ay de n ta ng . c o m
Make-up
a nd ha i r :
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M o de l : R e b e c c a M o r r i s â&#x20AC;?
A long, long time ago, when women wore corsets and h
The Evolution of Online Shopping and Blogs
had mustaches the boys of Williamsburg would kill for
pads and neon tights were the epitome of taste (the fir
is), the idea of something like the Internet was at best
of the same stuff as Star Trek. People saw each other fa wanted to talk. Or, if they were feeling a bit antisocial,
tary phones or their briefcase sized cells. Kids showed
each other’s houses, and had not inkling as to what a la
but it had been working well enough for a few thousand
And then, perhaps inspired by that video-radio star m
bloggers began to, if not kill, then at least force the e
standby for shopping: the magazine. It’s hard if you do
a magazine to feel too intensely upset about this: the a
cialized blogs has made life much easier for consumer
cheaper). Seeing as they are the quirky offspring of ma
-those ancient things you can touch and move and stu bit of an evolutionary advantage from the get go.
Most personal style blogs have become prescriptive. T
photos, the author’s musings on fashion, coffee and w
much nicer clothes than average mortals, and, below e
of what pieces are worn, how much they cost, and wher up yourself.
It’s the oldest trick in the book--look at any fashion m
fashion story from pretty much any century, and
sort of listing. But what bloggers have that pri stantaneous feedback and response. You
period of time, discuss the pieces
guys and girls through comment
tumblr. In publishing their outfi
tors, personal shoppers, and sty
hoop skirts and men
tially massive amount of readers.
r, and when shoulder
rst time around, that
Blogs have taken to the idea of retail connections quickly. Many, like the la-
t a pipe dream made
dies behind Sea of Shoes, the Man Repeller, Fashion Toast and Style Rookie,
ace to face when they
have turned their pages into business platforms. The more readers and fol-
they dialed their ro-
lowers you have, the more designers and stores are interested in advertising
d up unannounced at to those followers. It’s the same idea as paying a million for a Super Bowl
atte is. It was simple, commercial spot; it’s a beyond primo audience and time slot, so companies
d years.
are willing to shell out more money. The bloggers who have been able to successfully transition their blogs from straight style diaries to interactive
murder business, the
evolution of our old
websites have gotten collaborations, front row Fashion Week seats and book deals. In doing so, they also gain serious amounts of cred and followers.
on’t work for or own
advent of hyper-spe-
And now magazines are following suit with their own blogs (chicken before
rs (and a helluva lot egg before chicken?). Nylon and Elle are perhaps two of the more virtually
agazines and diaries-
established, but pretty much every major fashion book has a blog, a tumblr,
uff--blogs had quite a a Twitter, and a Facebook and most have a digital team. Glamour, InStyle UK, Elle UK and several other media brands have partnered to help launch and maintain Shopstyle.com, a discovery shopping engine that lets you
They offer street style
browse hundreds of pieces in much the same way you can browse designers
walking around with
and collections on style.com. Like everything else it’s touched, the internet
each photo, a listing
has made shopping instantaneous. You can bop around style blogs with tabs
re you can pick them
for all of the stores your favorite pieces are from and have them immediately, rather than having to wait to, gasp and groan, go to the store itself.
magazine editorial or
There are also the purist blogs--the Sartorialists, the Garance Dore’s, the
d you’ll see the same Jak and Jil’s--who publish brilliant street style, illustration, and commen-
int mags don’t is in-
tary. They are the editorial spread, the fashion feature, the well-penned let-
can, in a fairly short ter from the editor to the fashion stories that are the style blogs we know
s with most of these
and bookmark.
ts or on Twitter and
fits, they become edi-
The web’s become one big fashion mag, and everyone is a contributor. -Rachel Vincent
yle icons for a potenImages
courtesy of
Ejja Pahlevi
v i a f l i c kr
Artist of the
Galliano’s Tumble
and the
Self-Destruction
The Fall of Giants:
By now, even if you aren’t actively interested in the goings-on of the fashion world, you’ve probably heard something about John Galliano and his stunningly awful fall from couturier genius to bigoted outcast. It’s much larger than Galliano, or even racism, though. His self-destruction-- it can be called nothing less-- was like watching a car accident; even after it was obvious that he was quite wrong, he did not truly apologize or attempt to make amends in any way. The pin was pulled, and as far as Dior, Natalie Portman and scores of designers, editors and fans were concerned, his career as he had built it was over. It wasn’t as if the man was controversy-free or even mildly conventional. He cartwheeled down runways and was frequently intoxicated, wore lipstick and tiaras, and according to some friends had made iffy comments before. But after raw footage of an inarguably racist tirade was released, Galliano’s entire body of work, brilliant collections and all, was suddenly cast in the shadow of his personality.
Certainly an unfortunate story, but it isn’t an uncommon one in the art world. There have been suicides (Alexander McQueen, Isabella Blow, and of course Plath), self-mutilation (Van Gogh), drug and alcohol abuse (with what seems like the majority of writers, actors, musicians and artists). Why do artists seem to be time bombs of madness so much more than do accountants or doctors?
than every stantly top process b and more scious to Maybe wh like drawin when the And in su pain, or r ences, arti and oomp ever contr
There have been studies of this question for decades: why do creative minds have a tendency to break more easily? It is eccentricity, some say. The weirdness that comes with being an artist who can think outside the orbit of most people can conceive of in order to create comes with a propensity for mental illness. Or even a hypersensitivity to the world as a whole, being that artists must be sensory tools above all else.
None of t Galliano launch int two wome to create s loaded wi any case, may be ab those who almost an Elizabeth talk a few we should inspiration sic to ours come to us the artist we can alle sures that so tragica c h e l V
But perhaps it is more the intense pressures of fame and of being deemed a genius that pushes people to the edge. When paired with expectations to constantly be better, more original, more fantastic
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yone else (and to conp yourself), the creative becomes less inspired a push on the subcono produce inspiration. hen that comes to be ng blood from a stone is cracks start to appear. ubjecting themselves to reliving painful experiists add more meaning ph to their work, howrived it may be.
this fully explains why saw it necessary to to a verbal tirade against en, or why he was able such incredible art while ith so much vitriol. In I hope that one day we ble to separate art from o create it, and see it as n entity unto itself. As Gilbert said in a TED years ago on creativity, dnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t view creativity and n as something intrinselves but, as things that s. And maybe by seeing as a vessel and a filter eviate some of the prest seem to so often and ally break them. - R a i c e n t
a i l e h p O M U A - J u l i a n n a G r o ga n S t yli st - Ashle y Bri stow M o d e l - V a n e ssa J o bb P h o t o g r ap h e r - C a i t l i n B
e l l a h
s t i d e r C d r e ss
and
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Anna Popovich
H e a d p i e c e - A va F l y n n Headpiece- Culietta D r e ss - N e u r o t i ca
B o l e r o - R ac h a e l F r e i r e S t e p h a n i e G r ac e F o y
R
Clueless a ing is? (h irritating Summer world, ke designers tember.
Couture kind, pro ion hous not coun â&#x20AC;&#x153;Haute C official pe on runwa more orn collection
Ready t a-porterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lections a tities. Th at Resort Fashion W
Bespoke lor-made
Pre-Fall autumn/ for desig give the p lections.
Resort: wear) res how their
Bridal: planatory Lhullier a la Renta.
U N WAY R E P O R T
about couture? Have no idea what a resort showhint: it doesn’t have anything to do with those g Sandals commercials) Well, as the Spring and 2011 shows launch into full gear around the eep this primer handy so you know why the heck s are showing spring and summer in mid-Sep-
Spring/Summer Shows: (S/S) The season of shows during the second half of the year, generally starting in September.
Dict io n a ry :
e: extremely labor intensive, handmade, one of a ohibitively expensive garments created by a fashse. NOT mass produced, ie, Juicy Couture does nt. In France, you cannot legally call yourself a Couture” (literally, high sewing) house without ermission. Today, the couture collections shown ays are often labeled as such as they consist of nate, less wearable pieces than the ready to wear ns.
to Wear (RTW): From the French term ‘pret’; the counterpoint to haute couture. These colare either factory made or made in limited quanhese collections make up the bulk of the shows t, pre-fall, autumn/winter and spring/summer Weeks.
e: A Britishism used to describe custom or taie clothing.
l: The short season of runway shows before the /winter collections show. A sort of interim period gners to show smaller or capsule collections, or public a peek at what’s in store for the Fall col-
Full of brighter, flowier pieces, (or ski-ready sort or cruise collections are pretty much just r name would have you assume.
Much like resort, bridal showings are self-exy. Look for genre specific designers like Monique and general industry heavyweights like Oscar de . I
m a g e
c o u r t e s y
o f
Autumn/Winter or Fall Shows: (A/W) The season of shows during the first half of the year, kicked off in New York at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week. In addition to the major fashion centers (London, Milan, Paris, New York), countries all over the world have their own fashion weeks with local designers.
Menswear: Though menswear shows happen throughout the year in different places, they usually line up with the couple of weeks just before the major S/S and A/W shows.
W h o ’ s i n t h e f r o nt row: In recent years, the front rows of fashion shows have opened up to bloggers, which is quite a development seeing as how they were once the territory of major magazine editors, celebrities, and buyers. Now you can catch the bloggers behind fashiontoast, BryanBoy and Style Rookie sitting in the most primo seats of huge shows like Versus, Comme des Garcons and Prada.
Major Cities In New York City, Fashion Week was held at Bryant Park for years until this past season, where it was moved uptown to Lincoln Centers. Smaller designers show all throughout the city, though, some in warehouses and event spaces, and others in satellite venues. The same holds for London Fashion Week, though the main area is at Somerset House, Vauxhall sponsors a group of shows a few blocks away as well. Paris’ venues are generally more varied, the the Carrousel is the official headquarters. In Milan, Fashion Weeks are centered around the Fashion Milano Centre, though there are talks to change that in the near future. - R a c h e l V i n c e n t
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N O I S S A P N O I S S E F PRO o How t
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Line n o i h s wn Fa O r u Yo C r e at e c h h S a r a
c o u r t e s y
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courtesy of
♥ ’
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Starting your own fashion line is no easy feat. It takes patience, creativity and, let’s be honest, a trust fund. But seriously, if you are motivated to get your clothing out there in any way possible, then it can happen. Think back to Jenny Humphrey’s stint in the second season of Gossip Girl when she created a guerrilla fashion show at a socialite benefit. The first thing you need to do…is have talent. Now, the first thing you actually need to do is create a concept for your line. If you don’t know where you’re going, then you can’t possibly begin. Find a niche and think outside the box. Why would someone want to buy something from your line? Test out your idea with some friends, and if it’s a hit, then it’s time to move forward. Next, you need to create a name for your line. You already have your concept and who your line is geared towards, so the name can go off of that or be entirely random. It can be as simple as your name (think Alexander McQueen) or have nothing to do with clothing at all (what does Guess have to do with clothing?). Now, it’s time to market and publicize. If no one knows who you are or that your line exists, your only customers will be your parents who feel bad for their child who might have benefited from a PR class in school. Create a Facebook, a Twitter, and even a Myspace for the few people that still use it. Next, it’s time to design the clothing that you just created all that hype about on all those networking sites. If you’re working by yourself and have limited funds, start small. Design some clothes and try to sell them to boutiques in your area. Try to always wear something from your own designs. When someone says they love your shirt and want to know where to get one, give them your business card and hope your newest
client has the funds to buy your whole collection. While they may not be great examples for all things in life, the Kardashians stepped up to the plate for their line. By starting as buyers for clothing stores, they were able to understand what people are looking for and what they can afford. Before you jump into designing your own line, it might be beneficial to snag a job at a clothing store in your area. Try to tag along when the owner checks out samples to purchase for the store. Keep track of what sells most. Better yet, intern or get a job with a current fashion designer. Perhaps make a name for yourself, Jenny Humphrey-style, and burst onto the scene with an endorsement from your favorite designer and a portfolio to boot.
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Mo d e l - Je s s i c a Tru s c ot t
Mo d e l - Je s s i c a Tru s c ot t
Photographer - Kirill Mikhirev
Model - Elandria Photographer - John Howells
THE NEW CELEBRITY ICONS+
All celebrities come and go, but their images of fashion stay forever. Some are older so you can keep your eye out for the new trendsetters and, perhaps, for those who m
Sienna Miller
First and foremost, same hair, Miller w ing the day, her fas while at night she d nothing but fantast 20 years and contin
Taylor Momsen is the new Cherie Currie. If you don’t know who Currie is, please re Runaways, and if you don’t know who Taylor Momsen is, she might knock on your and kick your ass. Currie stopped singing 30 years ago, but her image still lives on t her music and unforgettable corset attire on stage. Today, Momsen picks up right w Currie left off. Decked out in stripper heels, netted tights and corsets that would ma pole dancer blush, Momsen has emulated Currie’s look down to the last rip in her st
TAYLOR MOMSEN Because no boy should be left out of such a list, Justin Bieber is the new Aaron Carter. With the same swoon-worthy smiles and dirtyblonde hair, these male singers couldn’t be more alike. Although Carter didn’t have such a zombie-cult following as Bieber has today, they both will forever be known for their brightly colored shirts, splendid dance moves and fun beats and lyrics.
JUSTIN BIEBER
Lady G is goin for her from sc and wi
photos courtesy of SpreePiX, Rubenstein, sheilapic76, bdhq, and petercrui
+GHOSTS OF FASHION’S PAST
r and wiser and some are ready to pick up where the older and wiser ones left off. Let me break it down for you might follow in the newbie’s footsteps in twenty years.
, Sienna Miller is the new Kate Moss. With the same body type and even the was born to fill Moss’ shoes. Miller pulls off the boho look with ease. Durshion choices tend to be styled and put together but at the same time baggy; dawns more chic and darker looks. Following in Moss’s footsteps can be tic for Miller’s fashion social life as Moss’s career has been going on for over nues to this day.
ent The r door through where ake a tocking.
BLAKE LIVELY
Blake Lively is the new Sarah Jessica Parker. Gossip Girl here, your one and only source into the scandalous lives of Manhattan’s elite, telling you that Lively has dominated the New York fashion scene. Parker will forever be remembered as the Sex and the City sweetheart with more clothes and accessories then the average girl could handle; but a new era has arrived, and Lively’s name is written all over it.
LADY GAGA
Gaga is the new Madonna. Although Madonna will never truly be over, if anyone ng to take her place in the fashion world, it’s Lady Gaga. She gives Madonna a run r money every time she steps on stage. Madonna was the one to do everything first, candalous leotards to stripper dance movies. Now, Lady Gaga is doing it all again, ith even more balls (if that’s possible).
ise
ARTICLE By: Sarah Lorsch
REC R
CYCLED Royal Model Ksenia. S t y l e d b y K e s ya M o e d z . Make up and hair by Phillips Kwok, P h o t o g r a p h e r D a n S a nt o s o
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Mindy White T he C lich é interview Ian Michael Kintzle
Let’s be honest. Off the top of your head, how many female musicians do you know that can, in the same breath, vaunt some fashion sense, spout off a heap of Harry Potter lore, and cite Tim Burton as a creative influence? Not many. Me? I can think of one: Mindy White. You may know Mindy as the keyboardist from the band Lydia, or maybe the female half of that crooning duet with Anthony Green, “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.” Nowadays, this illustrious ingenué fronts her own band called States with ex-Copeland members Byran and Stephen Laurenson. This is my second interview with this petite and spirited musician, and she never fails to deliver!
mindy
Cliché: Mindy, you’re one of the few female musicians I’ve noticed that has a really good eye for quality vintage and great design. Tell me about it.
Mindy: Well, thank you (laughs). I’ve always appreciated the beauty of things with age and character. I’m obsessed with fairy tales, and I think that has a lot to do with it, too. One of my favorite artists ever is Arthur Rackham. I think his work was probably the first to get me into it all.
Cliché: Where does your inspiration for fashion come from? It can be a person, a place, anything. What is it? Mindy: I like to mix together anything that inspires me. Art, mood, comfort; I love studs, anything sparkly, shiny, loud, print, different. Anything vintage, of course. I tend to over accessorize, I think. But the way I see it, you can throw on a normal outfit and just by adding tons of jewelry, make it fun and cool. I love dark things, too, but in a fun, quirky way, like Tim Burton and Edward Gorey-ish type stuff. Cliché: If you could wear one designer for the rest of your life, who would it be?
Mindy: Well, I love the way my Siwy jeans fit, and I’ve never had a pair fit me like those do. Plus, they make these rad, completely sequined pants that I own in almost every color. I don’t wear any other brand now. So, maybe them or Wildfox Couture? Their designs are so awesome and fun, with a little playful dark twist on some designs. Cliché: Nice. What pieces would you recommend for people to be on the lookout for to augment their fashion wardrobe?
Mindy: Like I said, I kind of go overboard with jewelry. I figure, “the more, the merrier” when it comes to jewelry (laughs). I mean you don’t want to be walking around slumped over because it’s weighing your body down or anything (laughs). But mixing colors, different patterns, scarves, having one huge ring and a couple smaller ones on each hand, combining fancy jewelry with casual, etc. I like to find items that aren’t normally necklaces or pendants & wear them, too. I also like throwing cool earrings, or buttons, or some lensless glasses on as a pendant. Cliché: Sounds like some solid pieces. Who or “what” are you wearing right now? Be honest!
Mindy: Right this second? I just left the Bamboozle Festival, so I have some white flowery tights, torn up, jet black Siwy jean shorts, (laughs) told ya! I also have on a white tee with skeleton faces across it, jean jacket, black boots, and tons of jewelry (laughs). Oh, and no one knows, but I’m totally wearing Christmas socks with reindeer on them. Shh, don’t tell anyone.
Cliché: I’m telling everybody! So, for those that don’t know, elaborate on your new band, States, and what you’ve been up to since the Lydia days.
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Mindy: Well, I quit Lydia back in November of 2009, and from there I worked on my own music. After Copeland ended, the guys wanted to do a new project and asked if I’d be into working on some ideas together. Long story short, that became States! We released an EP entitled “Line ‘Em Up”, and we just recorded our first full-length with the always amazing Aaron Sprinkle in Seattle. Now we’re waiting for it to get mastered, and in the meantime, I’m brainstorming like crazy for artwork and a title for the album. In other words, lots of coffee, art, and music swirling around to keep those creative juices flowing! Cliché: Sounds like it’s coming together nicely. Tell me about the “look” States is going for? Mindy: I think the guys have always had such a cool style, themselves. Not too dressy, but casual and mature. We haven’t ever really talked about an actual image from a clothing standpoint, because we’ve never had the need. They show up automatically dressed like they just left a GQ Magazine shoot, and I’m like, alright, welp... I guess I need to change out of this baggy shirt and leggings (laughs). But I’m always wearing something loud, even if it’s just one piece to the outfit. As far as performing with States, I haven’t played a show without my bedazzled Siwy sequined pants on. They’re just so loud and bad ass, I feel like a bedazzled Supergirl with them on! Cliché: What’s your favorite style in the opposite sex? Mindy: I kind of love the rockabilly look, I guess; but more mixed with like a GQ style. I Love denim shirts and jackets; cut off plaid button ups for summer; fit tapered jeans, not super skinnies; rolled up jeans; Sperry shoes; basic white tee with nice jacket; skinny ties over plaid shirts. Oh, and the haircut of what I call the “lazy mohawk,” or European grown out mohawk where it’s not spiked but just long down the middle. I’m sure there’s a way better name for it (laughs). Cliché: What is the one egregious fashion faux pas that you’d like to shoot dead, right on the spot? Mindy: Oh my gosh, no offense to anyone who loves these, but personally, I’m so over neon clothes! I don’t know why or how it started, but it’s just not a good idea for anyone. The glasses without lenses; I know Harry Potter did it in the films, but it was only to refer from having a glare in the scenes. Plus, he’s magical and allowed. Not a good look for Muggles! Second, I think I’m over the feather exten-
mindy
sions. I know they’re big right now, but I’m just sick of seeing them on every single person, as if birds are dive bombing into people’s heads! Third: the “shotgun blast” haircut. It’s not flattering on anyone, and for some reason, suburban moms seem to love it. Finally, popped polos. My goodness. Cliché: Do you think there’s a big style difference between Nashville and Los Angeles? And which do you appreciate more?
Mindy: Huge difference! I love LA fashion. It’s funny, I come home and tell friends about what’s out there, and 8-16 months down the road, there it is...finally making its way to Nashville; and by then, it’s annoying. I never got into the idea of “trends” or “what’s hot.” I think some people concentrate too much on what everyone else is wearing, and what’s “cool” for everyone else, when they could create their own unique fashion ideas every single day. Life is too short to dress boring! Cliché: What’s an outfit that you’d wear in Nashville that you’d never wear in LA? And vice versa?
Mindy: Oh man, I don’t know. I’d like to think that I wear the exact same stuff no matter what city, but I definitely know that I can get away with wearing more bizarre things out in LA. I love that no one is afraid of branching out in LA. But I live in the suburbs of Nashville, so when I roll out to go get a coffee or head to the store, I get eyeballed like crazy just from having torn jeans, leopard tank, and glittery gold shoes. Some areas are just like an Abercrombie swamp! Which is fine. There’s even times I find some cool things in Abercrombie, but it’s like...come on! Have fun with fashion, mix it up! Cliché: What part of the world has the best style, in your opinion?
Mindy: Japan, of course! I buy magazines on Japanese fashion and study it like a midterm (laughs). Cliché: Last question: do you have a lucky outfit you like to wear in the studio, and what is it?
Mindy: (laughs) Actually, yes. I went to the Harry Potter exhibit, and I got a “Dumbledore’s Army” shirt which I wore a lot! It made me feel like I had magic powers (laughs). Besides that, it was super chilly in there, so I was like a sweater lady. Everyday I had like two sweaters, scarves and hats, and I was bundled up like a little kid on a snow day. Had to protect those vocal chords by staying warm!
photographer/ Stylist/ mua&hair/ model/ ©www.dashdot.nl
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MADE DANCERS RISE IN 1795 HIS “FLYING MACHINE” LIFTED DANCERS UPWARD, ALLOWING THEM TO STAND ON THEIR TOES BEFORE LEAVING THE GROUND
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EVERY DANCER HAS UNIQUE FEET, WITH VARIATIONS THAT INCLUDE TOE LENGTH AND SHAPE, ARCH FLEXIBILITY, AND MECHANICAL STRENGTH.
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They can act, sing, play sports flawlessly, model and even design clothing and handbags. By collaborating with already renowned fashion designers or starting from scratch, Hollywood starlets, along with rappers and soccer stars, are making their way into your closets. -Sarah Lorsch
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Your favorite Armani underwear model/soccer star and awar
winning rapper are also working together to create a children
clothing line. You read that right; David Beckham and Snoop Dog
have ideas in the works to create what Snoop says will be a “fly
line. “I’d love to do baby house shoes with Beckham,” Snoop said
In 2008, Snoop started a clothing line called Rich & Infamous
which didn’t survive in the terrible economy. Beckham has also worked on a line for Adidas. But this time around, the clothing line for babies becomes more relevant, since Beckham and family just welcomed a baby girl in July. Perhaps with some help from the already-successful Victoria, the line will have no trouble skyrocketing into the baby closets of the fashionable.
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Gossip Girlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Michelle Trachtenberg is our last designer of the moment. Unlike the rest of our celebrity designers, this is Trachtenbergâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first go at clothing. She will be collaborating with Rebecca Taylor for a look that combines girly
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s e m l o h e i t a k Everyone knows that Katie Holmes paired up with her stylist Jeanette Yang in 2009 to create a clothing label called Holmes and Yang. But now this pair has invited a new lucky brand to come along for the ride. Valextra bags is collaborating with Holmes and Yang to create Valextra for Holmes and Yang. Together, these labels are creating classic handbags for any occasion and can be found at Barney’s New York.
and rock chic to create a cool, sexy look. “She and I are actually going to be doing a collaboration in the future. Probably a capsule collection,” Trachtenberg said. “Not the near future because these things take time, but that’s really exciting. I mean, she’s the epitome of girly glam; she’s sophisticated and romantic. It’s pretty much the only thing you want to wear on a date.”
HOT CHILD IN THE CIT
“What is it about being a young girl finding her p hurly burly city, albeit with serious drama, gla beautiful clothing that intrigues young women This female archetype first made her appearance as Carrie Bradshaw in Sex and the City, the enviable fashionista who writes her own column on friendships, relationships and fashion in the most coveted city of the world. The chic, city female protagonist has taken the form of a teenage, Upper East Side socialite Gossip Girl by the name of Serena van der Woodsen. The mysterious Gossip Girl dishes on the secret lives, romances and dark pasts of Manhattan’s elite.
after the death of Sex and the City. Serena van der Woodsen (Blake Lively) and Blair Waldorf (Leighton Meester) are the most envied girls of the Upper East Side, and the inspiration of fashionstarved girls nationwide. Blair’s headbands, flats, and squeaky-clean frocks redefined the bad girl image and made her classically chic. Her other fashion half, Serena, is the more free-spirited of the two and dons a sexy, downtown look paired with classic pieces.
Gossip Girl is a show famous for more than its plot lines. Known for attracting fans who swear they only watch for the wardrobe choices, Gossip Girl reaches beyond teenage fans; it attracts women of all age groups looking for style icons
Five seasons later, the show has continued to be widely successful due to the stunning styles that these two characters in particular exude. Outside of their roles, Lively and Meester have become fashion icons on the red
carpet and in adve on the Best Dresse they have also been brands. While Live Chanel ambassador, of Vera Wang’s frag Therefore, prise that worldwide sip Girls
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VIDEO
By Camelle Dumo
OF MANHATTAN’S ELITE
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Fall is a time when we begin to store away cover chunky scarves and heavy wool coats. tween season that doesn’t last long. Before yo brace, especially for the return of seasonal b darkness (boo DST) is the return of fall fashion.
ONE
Colorful Pants: Whether cropped, fla peared in spring runway shows and will undeniab
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Tuxedos: Pairing a black bow tie to and mark you as penguin chic.
THREE
Leather Skirts: The motorcycl years back with big black boots and zipper frenzy the mini skirt also gets a douse of hell’s belles.
FOUR
High Slit: Here’s a style we have ham’s Posh Spice days - the high slit. Eye-catching tolerate cold weather with a little leg exposure.
FIVE
Stripes: This is a go-to look all year ro iconic look gets straightened out. Wide lines on pa or vertical, expect to see a modernized take on str by Camelle Dumo
photo courtesy of br1dotcom
fall trends
//
our breezy summer dresses and dig through the farthest reaches of our closets and drawers to reDespite the sudden transition from summer nights to ungodly cold mornings, fall is an in-beou know it, the crisp weather drops from 50 degrees to arctic temperatures. Fall is a season to embeverages (pumpkin spice latte!). But perhaps one of the best reasons to rejoice over the plunging n. This year there are a dozen new ways to keep summer a little longer, with bold colors and flirty skirts.
flared or trouser you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go wrong. Colors, such as hot pink, neon green and other saturated shades, have apbly make appearances again in the fall season.
o a pristine white shirt with black pants and jacket is a look that will place you ahead of the fashion curve,
le fetish took off a couple of moto jackets, but this season
enâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seen since Victoria Beckng and tastefully sexy, try to
VIDEO
ound, but this season the pants and jackets, horizontal ripes.
// the must-have additions to your fall 2011 wardrobe
THE NEXT GENERATION of VIDEO
DESIGNERS
WHO TO LOOK FOR What does it take to be a successful and dignified designer? The fashion industry is cutthroat and merciless. A solid piece depends not only on the design, but the fabrics, cuts and colors chosen. There is a demand to create something unheard of, while also acknowledging worldwide trends. These three designers are the word on new and reinvented fashion. They celebrate unique, personal style and should be something to look out for. J. J.S. Lee: Hailing from Seoul, Korea, Jackie Lee started her career as a Pattern Cutter in various companies. Her design aesthetic is modern, sharp and feminine. Lee is acknowledged for her cutting-edge minimalist pieces, and her Fall/Winter 2011 collection showcases her stand out talent. Hakan Yildirim: Hakan is a Turkish designer based in London whose first breakthrough was winning first place in the Young Designers Competition in Istanbul. His work continued to draw attention when he landed his first show in London Fashion Week last year. Hakan’s pieces are minimalistic, ethereal and inspired by architecture. Emma Watson recently wore one of Hakan’s coveted pieces, a dusty lilac “figure skater” dress. Wes Gordon: At 24 years old, Wes Gordon has garnered so much success by showcasing some of his tailored separates in high end boutiques nationwide. Gordon attended the Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design in London where iconic designers such as Alexander McQueen and Stella McCartney also studied. Gordon’s aesthetic is focusing on suiting that compliments a woman’s figure, which is perhaps why several of his looks involve pairing a tailored jacket with a silky gown. by Camelle Dumo
IN FUTURE VOGUES
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1 make-up artist : Audrey Mendoza hair: Noelle Lynne model: ALiena Lalau fashion designer: Nika Amy Tang stylist: Ardis Wang
2 fashion designer: Nika Amy Tang make-up artist : Audrey Mendoza model: ALiena Lalau stylist: Ardis Wang hair: Noelle Lynne
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6 stylist: Ardis Wang hair stylist: Noelle Lynne jewelry designer: Shin-chi Chen make-up artsit: Audrey Mendoza model: ALiena Lalau, Alexandra Boksay make-up artist: Michelle Tan fashion designer: Nika Amy Tang,
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Pencil? Check. Paper? Check. Imagination? Double Check. With these three simple basics, designers of every age, every background, and every style sketch their creative inspirations onto paper and translate them into fashionable masterpieces. “Fashion illustration is portraying the attitude and emotions that a garment can achieve. A simple red dress becomes a dash of power in a drawing, personifying the woman wearing it as a force to be reckoned with. Fashion illustration is more about the version of self that the person wearing it becomes,” says Rachel Nhan, a 21-year-old fashion illustrator from Texas who takes advantage of social media to share her designs. With the booming sensation of social media, young and fresh fashion illustrators such as Nhan take advantage of blog sites to showcase their personal style. However, this convenient showcasing is not only for looking but inspiring as well. “Most of my work comes from simple quick sketches of fashion bloggers on the web. I turn to the fashionistas of the world to offer inspiration. I’ve assigned myself the challenge of sketching 3 drawings of a featured blogger every week on my blog,“ Nhan said. But is the fashion illustration world being threatened by the art of photography? As Nhan said, “Fashion illustration was in its prime during its editorial days in Vogue, but now that photography exists, it is no longer needed to advertise or display clothes. As with all areas of art though, hand-drawn mediums have something that a photograph simply cannot capture.” This genuine art is an organic and inspirational route that simply cannot be replaced. Fashion illustrating isn’t only drawing, it’s dreaming. It’s dreaming the pathway of our fashion future. It’s dreaming of the bizarre and undiscovered. It’s dreaming of how we can take human creativity to the next level. With the combination of pencil, paper, and imagination we’ve been able to see this incredible industry grow from one ruffle to thousands, from yellow to neon, from cotton to metallics, and the inspirational speed of fashion illustration is not slowing down anytime soon. - O l i v i a K r a w c z y k
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image courtesy of land on metz
It’s no surprise that vintage-lovers, designers, and shop owners Hannah Metz and Elsie Larson love creating vintage-inspired clothing as much as they love wearing it. Although the two own separate boutiques in two different states—one is based in Los Angeles, CA and the other in Springfield, MO—and specialize in selling two different kinds of attire (Elsie makes the dresses and Hannah makes what goes under them), they are both inspiring young women everywhere to take a little trip back in time. Hannah’s lingerie line, cleverly called The Loved One, first launched back in October 2009 with the help of Kickstarter.com and some very generous and supportive followers. Elsie’s Red Velvet shop, which also houses her sister Emma’s sweets shop, is home to other handpicked vintage items, accessories, and keepsakes. It was my pleasure to ask these ladies about their debut lines, their muses, and about some of their favorite fashion pieces they can’t live without. - Megan Portorreal
CLICHÉ: Any specific reason why you wanted to start your own lingerie line? HANNAH: My partner Elvia Lahman and I both have extensive collections of vintage lingerie and we wanted to share our love of vintage lingerie with people who may not be as comfortable wearing other people’s castaways as we are! CLICHÉ: Who have been your biggest supporters during this project? HANNAH: Our husbands and the blogging community.
VIDEO
image courtesy of land on metz
CLICHÉ: When designing lingerie, do you have any muses or musical influences in mind? HANNAH: All of our styles are named after various 60s B sexy films. I suppose they are always in the back of our minds when designing though really we just design things that we’d like to wear ourselves CLICHÉ: Has living in New York City influenced your designs in any way? If not NYC, which city has? HANNAH: Our lingerie is actually designed and produced in Los Angeles and I think is a great deal inspired by mid-century LA! It’s glamorous and silly all at once. CLICHÉ: Which item from your collection is your favorite and why? HANNAH: My favorites are constantly changing! Right now, I’m really excited about our bra and panty set called “She Should have Stayed in Bed” (in fact I’m wearing it right now)! CLICHÉ: What about your favorite item in your own closet? HANNAH: It’s incredibly hard to pick! I’ve been fortunate enough to find so many treasures as a vintage buyer! I think my favorite however is a sheer Edwardian blouse with birds embroidered throughout and the most beautiful beadwork! CLICHÉ: Will you be working on new designs for this fall? HANNAH: We’re always working on new designs and hope to release new products every few months! Right now we’re working on a small collection of daytime attire including blouses, dresses and shorts! We’re extremely excited about this.
image courtesy of Elsie L arson
VIDEO
CLICHÉ: When did you first realize you wanted to create your own dress line? ELSIE: I was driving to Chicago with my then boyfriend (now fiancé) Jeremy and I was telling him that I wanted to move my business in the direction of clothes. This was the first time I had ever admitted this dream to anyone. He was very supportive of the idea and eventually I turned my love of vintage into my dream of having my own dress line of original designs. CLICHÉ: Who have been your biggest supporters during your projects? ELSIE: My parents are very supportive of my dreams and my business. They always have been since I was a little kid. My fiance has always been my rock and my shoulder to cry on during all the tough times. I am very lucky to have him. My little sister is my right-hand lady in the business, I couldn’t do it without her, (and I would really hate to try!). CLICHÉ: If you could explain your workplace in five words, how would you describe it? ELSIE: Inspiring, chaotic, historic (we are in a very old building), overwhelming and totally exciting. CLICHÉ: Tell me the funniest or most rewarding experience you’ve had in your shop since you opened it? ELSIE: There have been lots of very memorable moments, both good and bad. But I would say one of the most rewarding experiences of this past year was getting to watch (refreshing my computer screen over and over) Red Velvet’s very first dress line nearly sell out within the first couple of hours it was available. I cannot explain how proud, and how humbled I was in that moment. I can never be thankful enough. CLICHÉ: Which is your favorite dress in the collection and why? ELSIE: I have an attachment to all of them, of course. But my absolute favorite is the Pen Pal dress. I kept one in my size that I will be wearing to my rehearsal dinner in a few short weeks (my wedding is May 15th!). CLICHÉ: Do you have any other goals for the future or projects you would like to start? ELSIE: We plan to expand the dress lines for the upcoming Fall/Winter launch tentatively scheduled for September 1st. We hope to offer more quantities of each design, handbags and other fun accessories! And we plan to offer a vintage and handmade bridal section on our website (hopefully)
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W a n g
X i a o f e n g
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The Mistake
Trends have been tried on, trashed, treasured and tossed away throug table has cycled through some pretty questionable territory, and w
Errors from the Enlightenment era
seem like it would be convenient for a night out (or any public occasion for that matter). However, it may be just the thing you are looking for to scare away your daughter’s prom date. Also from this era is the corset. In those days, these were bound and laced so tightly around a woman’s midsection that one could actually see their figure being altered over time. Not to mention they are great for cutting off circulation. I mean, no one likes to breathe anyway, right? Pain before beauty is one thing...but fashion that corrupts your health? No thanks.
Photo
courtesy of Oh f l i c kr . c o m
Paris
via
1920 swim s
Let’s take it way back to when ball gowns and long ringlets were the norm. Sure, the glamorized version of prim and proper can be seen today on the red carpet, but there is one element of the 1700s era dress that is unlikely to regain its stride. Enter the cage crinolines. Three to five feet in diameter, these metal contraptions were used to create a fuller effect on the skirt of a woman’s dress. This doesn’t
the definition of dowdy Before monokinis and bandeaus, women wore frumpy sailor dresses paired with bloomers or knickerbockers; a loose-fitting trouser. This was a time when females were expected to dress conservatively, but there is no way that someone could swim in such attire without feeling like a giant washrag.
Still, Still, what what is is “crazy” “crazy” in in one one person’s person’s mind mind may may bebe just just a sample a sample of of what what another’s another’s whole whole wardrobe wardrobe is is comprised comprise
And Andtrends trendsfrom fromthe thepast pastwe weall allmay mayfind find“crazy” “crazy”somehow somehow seem seem to to land land themselves right back onto the the runwa runwa Women are now working the chic new new parachute parachute pants pants that that everyone everyoneonce oncethought though should be left to MC Hamm the rise once again. And who would have though thethat rise aonce 16-year-old again. And from who Clueless wouldwould have though be yourthat muse a 16-year-ol for a styli
Some Sometrends trendsmay maybe bebest bestleft leftinintheir theiroriginal originalterm, term,but buttoday todaywhat whatisiswidely widelyunaccepted unacceptedororunordinary unordinaryatatfirst firstisi an unorthodox item that you criticized. Besides, nobody likes a hypocrite. - Kitem a i l a n a l i n Besides, a for an unorthodox that you Kcriticized. n
es we Made
ghout history. Many have been well-deserving of this. Our fashion time we can’t help but ask ourselves, “What the heck were we thinking?!”
Not-so-happenin’
hair
Photo
Good-bye
to the basic black pump
courtesy of gabeezy via f l i c kr . c o m
Hair styles have also progressed, but not always in the right direction. While curls and beachy waves are currently the most sought after, the big hair circa 1980 is one that isn’t so “big” anymore. Something about poofed crimp and vertically fanned-out bangs doesn’t scream “sexy.” Even today we make some outrageous hair statements. Stars like Cassie and Rihanna get credit for boldness in sporting the half-shaved head look, but it didn’t quite catch fire the way side bangs or pixie cuts have.
Photo
courtesy of
P ENELO P E ! !
f l i c kr . c o m
via
High heeled shoes have evolved from a once plain, classic accessory to a piece that can now be the focal point of an ensemble. Not only are they fabulous - they are fabulously ridiculous, with architectural structures seemingly impossible to walk in and artistry that enhances the standards for detail. Designers like Alexander McQueen have mastered these.
ed of.of. InIn thethe end, end, different different styles styles exist exist because because not not everyone everyone shares shares thethe same same taste taste in in clothing clothing and and accessories. accessories.
ay ay --and andinto intoour ourclosets closetsasaswell. well.These Theseold oldfads fadsare arerevived revived byby a modernized a modernized oror signature signature twist twist by by thethe designer. designer. mer and Aladdin. All All the the bright, bright, nautical nautical colors colors and andpatterns patternsfrom fromthe the90s 90sthat thatwere wereconsidered consideredobnoxious obnoxiousare areon on ld ishfrom plaidClueless skirt-suit? would be your muse for a stylish plaid skirt-suit?
sisoften oftenrevisited revisitedon ondown downthe theline. line.So, So,maybe maybewe weshould shouldput puta ahold holdon onlabels labels- you - youcould couldfind findyourself yourselfyearning yearningfor nobody likes a hypocrite. - K a i l a n K a l i n a
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