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Joseph Ungoco / April 30, 2012 11:00 am
The Hemline Index was first presented to the world by economist George Taylor in 1926. The theory asserts that as hemlines rise, so does the stock market. While some “chicken vs. egg” types argue about which comes first, fashion types know that – of course – fashion comes first! When hemlines dropped in the late 1920s, the bottom fell out of the market in 1929. When the market was booming in the 1960s, hemlines shot up to shocking miniskirt lengths. In 1987, we went from miniskirt to maxiskirt virtually overnight for the Fall 1987 collections in September and the market collapsed on Black Monday in October, triggering a global recession.
Having just filed abysmally depressing tax returns for fiscal year 2011, many women are turning to the Spring 2012 offerings of American designers for an indication of where the stock market is headed. I looked to the designers favored by First Ladies – former and present – to see what their hemlines have to say about our economic future. Unfortunately, the message is mixed. Hemlines for Spring 2012 are both high and low – sometimes both in the same dress!
I first looked to Diane Von Furstenberg. Surely she, as President of the CFDA, would have insight as to our collective economic future. Although the colorful florals from her Spring 2012 collection evoke hope of a bright future, the asymmetrical hemline tells me that she might be somewhat unsure about our economy. On the other hand, her new design director, Yvan Mispelaere being French may still have been adjusting to living in America last summer and, thus, unable to make a definitive judgment about our markets.
Having struck out there, I looked to the collections most favored by First Ladies and political types. Bill Blass, long known for dressing ladies of a certain conservative political persuasion, provided no clear direction on our economy either. Ankle length dresses that are sheer to above the knee are difficult to interpret. Carolina Herrera seemed bearish on the markets overall, but her ankle bearing evening gown indicated that she might be harboring a little hope for market recovery. Oscar de la Renta took a similarly cautious take on our future. His floral evening gown recalled the infantas in Goya portraits, just barely revealing the wearer’s shoes. The consensus among these designers seems to be mild uncertainty with a dash of hope for a slight uptick in stock prices.
Pondering where else I should look, I recalled that I often see Deeda Blair – perhaps the most fashionable political type there is and wife of the once ambassador to the Philippines – at the Chado Ralph Rucci collections. For Spring 2012, Mr. Rucci also sent a message of economic uncertainty, but the mid-knee baring high portion of his high-low hemline evening gown seems to indicate even wilder fluctuation in our markets. I couldn’t help but recall the alternative moniker of the Hemline Index, the “Bare Knees, Bull Markets” theory. Clearly fans of Mr. Rucci harbor hopes of even higher market surges than their more conservative counterparts.
Wanting to balance the conservative forecasts of the East Coast – and specifically New York – designers, I turned to the West Coast for what I had hoped would be more liberal economic projections. I looked at the collection of Monique Lhullier, a fellow Californian and fellow Filipino, to see what she thinks our future holds. Her take was similar to Mr. Rucci’s – market uncertainty, but with higher highs than others predict.
Whatever you think of this season’s high-low hemline, know that economic uncertainty is in our future, at least for the time being. If you remain committed to investing in the short term, I suggest taking a cue from the predominance of yellow in the Spring 2012 collection and investing conservatively in gold. If like me, you choose to align your investment strategy with the more hopeful financial indicators of Mr. Rucci and Ms. Lhullier’s hemlines, then invest in perhaps the highest yielding investment there is: fashion. I have high hopes for the future of our economic markets – and for American hemlines!
–Joseph Ungoco
Photos: Style.com
Image Layout: Second City Style
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Bonnie J Brown / April 30, 2012 10:00 am
Saddle up and ride. The equestrian style is quite the fashion trend of late and luckily you don’t even have to be riding a horse to sport the chic look. But unlike other fashion trends, where the clothing makes the statement, the dark and muted colors of the fitted pants and jackets are often overlooked for the more luxurious accessories. Of course there are any number of equestrian-styled accessories one can wear to enhance the ensemble, such as scarves, belts, hats and handbags. But the look isn’t complete without the requisite pair of riding boots. The tall, narrow boots of durable and supple leather instantly define the look and has also been the favorite boot style over the past several years. With its immense popularity, there are many imitators out there, however, there is only one fashion house who has become synonymous with the equestrian style and that is Hermès International, simply known as Hermès.
Founded in France in 1837, the Hermès family originally made harnesses and bridles (the leather strappings attached to the horse) for wealthy families throughout Europe, hence their horse and carriage logo. From there and as sons took over the family business, Hermès began producing other leather goods, including saddles and even garments like the zippered leather jacket. It was in the 1930s that Hermès began offering their most known pieces, like the Sac à dépêches which was later renamed the Kelly bag (so coined because Grace Kelly was featured in a Life magazine photo holding the bag) and silk ties and scarves. For a fashion house so well known for their handcrafted leather goods it may seem surprising that they also produce such fine and intricately made printed scarves, of course their most popular scarves are printed with horse and equestrian imagery to stick with their origins. The scarves are so popular the world over; Wikipedia mentions that an Hermès scarf is sold every 25 seconds.
Ready-to-wear clothing is also a part of Hermès’s fashion house and they can be credited with making riding clothes into a street-style trend. While they have branched out and will design casual knit clothing in recent history, they never stray too far from the equestrian look. But it is their classic accessories and home fashions that people love and continue to buy and long after the equestrian trend has moved on, Hermès will still have fans simply because of their quality and luxury.
1. Hermes Spring 2011 RTW, Style.com
2. Hermes Birkin Bag, bestbirkin.com
3. Hermes Fall 2012 RTW, Style.com
4. Hermes Saddle Bag, mrkstyle.com
5. Vintage Hermes Scarf, wiederseim.com
6. Hermes Jumping Boot, coolspotters.com
– Bonnie J Brown
Image Layout: Second City Style
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Laurie Espino / April 30, 2012 9:00 am
Oh summer… long lazy days spent lounging on the beach sipping oh-so-delicious colorful fruit drinks. Not a fashion-worry in the world, right? WRONG!
Your vacation on the coast is no excuse for your style to take a break as well. In fact, if celebrities today have taught us anything it’s that the beach is just another runway opportunity waiting to happen. Everyone from Victoria Beckham to Beyonce and (that’s right) teeny-boppers like Miley Cyrus and Taylor Swift hit the waves in high-fashion.
So how do you step-up? What do you rock in a sandy landscape that’s unbelievably stylish but still totally comfy? If the stars of the Golden Age of Hollywood like Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor have taught us anything it’s that a little retro glamor goes a long way. This summer, stick to the classics and be ultra-chic while at the beach.
1. Eric Javits Striped Wide-Brim Hat, $425
The sun feels great, but after a few minutes of its scorching rays bearing down on you, you’re about ready to duck in the shade. Bring the shade to you – or rather to the top of your head – with Eric Javits’ version of a wide-brim hat. This hat is so floppy it protects not only your head, but an entire perimeter around your body! Its bold striped pattern also makes it one stylish eye-candy.
2. Kate Spade New York Franca Cat Eye Sunglasses, $128
No one has managed to make a pair of sunglasses look as good the way that Audrey Hepburn did in Breakfast at Tiffany’s. These cat-eye shades from Kate Spade captures the vintage vibe of the shades Hepburn put on the map in the 60s but adds a modern twist with their hot-pink hue.
3. Hervé Léger Cutout Bandage Swimsuit, $890
It’s a well-known fact that a Hevre Leger Bandage dress can make you look outrageously amazing. It’s designed to accentuate all the right areas of a woman’s shape and its fabric is specially made to flatter any figure. Now, imagine all of that advanced 21st century fashion technology…on a swimsuit! You better believe that it’s possible. This bandage swimsuit will bring out your inner sea-goddess and give that extra boost of confidence to strut a supermodel walk. Skip the skimpy bikini and opt for the more classy choice.
4. Lilly Pulitzer Eryn Striped Dress, now $158.40
Coco Chanel introduced sailor stripes to the world of fashion in the 1930s and today it is a staple to any nautical scene. This Lily Pulitzer dress takes the traditional stripes and sets it in a heavy pink for a current vibe. Its flattering A-line silhouette and full-skirt however keeps it totally classic.
5. Fendi Black Leather and Jute Ankle Wrap Peep Toe Espadrilles, now $425
The oh-so-classic espadrilles sandal – it always manages to make a comeback! The timeless style has been a summer staple since, well, before anyone can recall. During the days of black-and-white movies iconic characters such as Grace Kelly’s Frances Stevens in To Catch a Thief to Audrey Hepburn’s Princess in Roman Holiday gallivanted around various Mediterranean paradises in these comfortable soles. Fendi, always the revivalist, updates the look with leather embellishments, cutout heel accent, and an extra 4 ½” heel. This is one classic style you simply can’t pass up!
7. Valentino Betty Bow Tote, $995
Valentino at the beach? For sure! Would we have it any other way? This Betty Bow Tote is obviously ubber-chic on the outside, it also neatly carries all your beach accessories on the inside! It’s safe for the beach (just as long as you don’t submerge it 10 feet under the sea, of course) and doubles as a tote when you get back on mainland.
–Laurie Espino
Image Layout: Amy Newling
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Alia Rajput / April 23, 2012 11:00 am
There’s no way we can conceal our glee — Mad Men has returned. After a harrowing 17 months off the air, one of the best shows on T.V. (if not THE best), has returned to the small screen. When the show first made a splash some 6 years ago, costume designer Janie Bryant was lauded for her authentic, and yet decidedly influential, touch. So much so that she was brought on board with retailer Banana Republic to organize a 60′s themed collection with them. Now, even in spite of it’s absence, the show seems destined to remain a fashion trailblazer (personal biases notwithstanding). And what better time to create a fashion homage to the swinging 60′s, then at the height of spring, when the weather begs for the era’s signature mini skirts and boldly patterned swimwear? In other words, there’s no better time to honor the past than the present.
Shift dresses were all the rage in the 60′s once the A-line silhouette of the circle skirt was deemed old-fashioned. The youthful, rebellious generation of the decade decided they wanted their skirts high and and their patterns modern, or “mod”. These bold, geometric prints lasted the test of time and are still showing up on runways today, as evidenced by last season’s Pringle of Scotland show. The loosely tailored shape and sleeveless cut are as essential to a flirty spring wardrobe now as they were then. And not every option needs to break the bank since BCBGMAXAZRIA, always adept at knowing what what the hip kids like, makes a perfectly pretty lace option with fresh lavender piping.
In the 60′s, if you weren’t tapped into the British Invasion and using Twiggy as your fashion icon, you may have been strumming along to Janis and wearing flowers in your hair. And if that was the case, your daily uniform probably required a maxi dress. Free flowing, floral and fabulous, the maxi dress exemplified the liberties women asserted during the era, is in some cases for the first time. Stacey Bendet of Alice + Olivia included the stylish staple in her 60′s-themed garden party presentation last season, and we absolutely fell in love. The bold bouquets of flowers are universally forgiving, as is the loose draping of the fabric. Although maxi dresses have made a huge comeback lately in all shapes and sizes, we’re particularly find of this printed version from Topshop and plan to wear it from the first beach day to the first frost.
Speaking of beach days, they are around the corner. With eye-popping, graphic prints akin to the mod trend, swimwear from the 60′s was flashy, fleshy and great way to self-express. Though boy shorts and cover-ups kept the looks modest, everything from polka dots to paisleys were introduced as necessities for a day at the shore, barring the plain and solid colored suits from decades before. The trend has evolved throughout the decades, the most modern version of which includes digital printing on fabric. VPL, an oft-trendsetting name in swimwear, presented graphic pieces on their spring runway that called to mind a 60′s pattern icon. And who could we possibly pull for the everyday look than a piece by the icon himself, Emilio Pucci. A household name during the pattern boom of the 60′s, Pucci proves that even after all this time, it’s best to go straight to the source.
A final look that can trace it’s roots from the 60′s style revolution is quite possibly on of the biggest trends on runways and in the streets today: color-blocking. As technicolor took over televisions during the 60′s, people everywhere began to celebrate the endless options of color. This exploration included the very Mark Rothko-esque pairings of two or more solid colors next to each other, even if they didn’t quite match. The expression was artistic, unique and again, a sign of the rebellious nature of the era. And thank goodness they did it because color-blocking has become one of the most fun ways to play with color to this day. Jill Stuart, a source of sophistication and femininity, decided to spotlight the trend on her spring runways, joining two different shades of one crisp color. And though monotone look is probably a more modern version of the trend, don’t be afraid to amp it up a notch and choose two different colors altogether, like this eye-catching number by Laundry by Shelli Segal. You may just find you’re the coolest kid on the color-block!
As fun as it is to tune into Mad Men each week and drool over the 60′s themed costumes, it’s even better to shop the updated versions of these classic looks and keep these timeless trends alive!
1. Shift Dress
Runway: Pringle of Scotland Spring 2012 RTW
Real Way: BCBGMAXAZRIA Andreea Blocked Lace Shift Dress, $288
2. Floral Maxi Dress
Runway: Alice + Olivia Spring 2012 RTW
Real Way: TOPSHOP Petite Floral Maxi Dress, $110
3. Psychedelic Swimwear
Runway: VPL Spring 2012 RTW
Real Way: Emilio Pucci Beach Graphic Print Bikini, $439
4. Color Block Mini Dress
Runway: Jill Stuart Spring 2012 RTW
Real Way: Laundry by Shelli Segal Split Sleeve Color Block Dress, $195
–Alia Rajput
Runway Photos: NYMag
Image Layout: Second City Style
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Kelley Epps-Woods / April 23, 2012 10:00 am
Since becoming a new mom again, I have been obsessed with everything skin. Maybe it’s because my new daughter nearly drained every ounce of glow I had remaining and every bit of moisture I had left in my skin. I have been playing catch-up from my days of lack-luster skin and am now on a mission to revive my skin. Here are five of my favorite products that helped me get my glow back.
When I need to get my skin in tip- top shape I can never go wrong with my Clarisonic. This brush does wonders for my skin that a washcloth and soap can’t do alone. I love the pulsating, buffing action that really makes me feel as if it’s getting down to the lowest levels of skin to get the day’s worth of gunk off my face. I will never be without my Clarasonic.
After this pregnancy my complexion needed to be revived. It had gotten so dark and discolored and breakouts were the norm. I needed a miracle and the next closest thing to that was LaPrairie. I adore this cream and pretty much everything LaPrairie. After a good cleansing I apply the Cellular Night Repair Cream to my face and neck, and I have an immediate glow. Then by morning it’s even better. This wonder cream helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, it’s anti-aging, hydrates and promotes regeneration and recovery. What more can I say, it’s a dream cream.
My eyes were no exception and my dark circles were awful. They needed special treatment and I had just the product for them. MAC’s Fast Response Eye Cream is heavenly. It immediately brightens the eye area and plumps up even the smallest creases near the eyes. I love how it smooths the area and makes the darkness less noticeable. I call it a ‘cup of coffee for my eyes’, because the cream is infused with caffeine which is sure wakes anyone’s eyes up!
What do you do with no time on your hands and need a quick pick-me-up? Well I know what I do, I go to Caudalie’s Beauty Elixir. This little spray is the perk I need for a refresher or when I’m tired. Infused with extracts of grape, essential oil of rosemary, orange blossom and rose extracts, benzoin, myrrh and essential oils of organic balm mint, its fragrance is so spa-like, and also so refreshing. It stimulates my skin with a bit of tingle to let me know that it is really working. This is a staple for me and for my clients, and makeup artists swear by it. You won’t be disappointed.
So, now that my face is revived I can’t forget about my body. I now realize how delicate our skin really is and how ingredients in products can affect our system, I’m now very conscious of what I use and put on my body. I decided to go a more natural route when moisturizing my skin, and have started using pure Virgin Coconut Oil by Nutiva. I must say it is the best moisturizer I have ever used for my skin. Not only does it smell delectable and make my skin unbelievable smooth but it gives my skin the most wonderful glow and sheen.
1. Clarasonic Mia, $149
2. LaPrairie Cellular Night Repair Cream, $240
3. MAC Fast Response Eye Cream, $30
4. Caudalie Beauty Elixir, $46
5. Nutiva Coconut Oil, $17.99
–Kelley Epps-Woods
Image Layout: Second City Style
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Taneisha Jordan / April 23, 2012 9:00 am
There’s nothing that excites me more than a bold and vibrant print. So what could be better than pairing two completely different vibrant prints together?! This summer season is all about making an impact.
You may think that this trend means going to the extremes but it really doesn’t. It’s just figuring out what textures and patterns suit you best and taking them to the next level. Don’t fret if you have a penchant for neutrals and earthy tones and are unsure on how to mix it up. You can try using a navy color instead of black or opt for two different darker patterns that are still in the same color family.
If you have more of an inclination for brights, then the sky’s the limit! Grab a bright neon yellow top and pair them with a multi-colored floral print pant. Or you could try the ultimate combination of stripes and dots of all shapes and sizes. This combo has been a huge hit lately and it wouldn’t hurt to try this trend while it’s hot.
Maybe prints aren’t your thing. You can always mix different textures. Try an airy lace and tulle dress with a dark, heavy leather jacket and motorcycle boots. Or maybe try a sheer blouse with jacquard pants. Or maybe denim and chiffon… it all could work with just the right attitude!
Florals and textures, stripes and polka dots, neon and… anything else. You name it, it’s all up for grabs!
1. ModCloth Vintage Green Palace Dress, $59.99
2. Alexander Wang Intarsia Sweater, $675
3. Rebecca Minkoff Mini-Mac Clutch, $275
4. Miu Miu Gingham Slingback, $595
5. Dries van Noten Carlines Draped Top, $910
6. rag & bone/JEAN Legging in Surf Knit, $187
–Taneisha Jordan
Image Layout: Second City Style
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Elise Ford / April 16, 2012 11:00 am
Saunter into summer slipping on these sumptuous sandals embellished in opulent stones, sassy tassels and metallic touches. Treat your feet to the best in flat footwear while still maintaining the sizzle of strappy stilettos without sacrificing cash or comfort.
These sandals are budget-friendly yet exude the same sophistication as the latest Salvatore Ferragamos!
Pulled together and polished, festooned footwear works double duty on the streets from dawn to dusk. Paired with patterned caftans, crisp linen bottoms and chic shifts – the options are endless when it comes to embellished flats!
1. DV by Dolce Vita Women’s Dixy Sandal, $69
Interlaced with hints of metallic, these azure blue sandals are a unique twist on the oh-so popular gladiator style.
2. Vince Camuto ‘Kaila’ Sandal, $97.95
Who says brown and black aren’t a chic duo? Vince Camuto never fails at crafting a pair of modern, embellished flats. Envious of that gold glitter toe?
3. Steve Madden Pharroh Flats Sandals, $80
Channel Pharroh in this Egyptian style footwear. The extravagant beading brings a touch of decadence to any ensemble.
4. Not Rated Grace, $49.99
Tangerine elevates these tan sandals to the next level. Sport them with citrus extras for added zest.
5. DV by Dolce Vita Ilana Flats Sandals, $59.99
Go GLAM! in gold tasseled sandals; these unrivaled flats will take you to the perfect summer-time diversion.
– Elise Ford
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Simona Kogan / April 16, 2012 10:00 am
In 1966, designer Yves St. Laurent created “Le Smoking,” a tuxedo suit specifically for women. It brought lots of controversy and attention to the fashion world for its depiction of masculine vs. feminine for women. Sure, stars like Katherine Hepburn and Marlene Dietrich had pioneered androgynous style with their black and white and their trousers, but it was YSL that promoted the use of pantsuits as power suits for women in modern day society. The women who wore these suits took on the idea of wearing clothes for influence, like their male counterparts and subsequently, slicked back their hair, smoked cigarettes, and posed provocatively for photographer Helmut Lang, who captured them in photographs in1975.
Today, pantsuits for women are still going strong. Whether it’s a unique fabric like velvet or a loud statement print (i.e the bold floral print suit worn by Florence Welch as she partied at the British Indie Music Awards afterparty,) these suits are getting our attention and making the women who wear them both beautiful and powerful at the same time. And of course, stylish too…
1. Lily Collins
She may have been attending a Cartier jewelry party, but it wasn’t the diamonds we were noticing on Lily Collins in New York City. The actress and daughter of singer Phil Collins wore a Dolce & Gabbana suit with lapels plus Paula Ka pants that hit at the waist. Kudos on the styling—I’m loving the high-waist pants with a suit jacket plus the ruffled shirt underneath (gotta love that Victorian high-collar style) complete with slicked-back hair, red lips and a red clutch. The only qualms I have about the outfit is that the suit jacket didn’t exactly match the pants. Does it have to? What do you think?
For your own attempt at this super chic style, grab this Dolce & Gabbana Fucca Peaked Lapel Blazer, now $845.
2. Elizabeth Olsen
The younger sister of style aficionados Mary-Kate and Ashley has confessed she doesn’t have a stylist and that no designers are clamoring to dress her (except HELLO Karl Lagerfeld, who posed with her at the recent Chanel runway show.) That’s not what we’ve noticed thanks to her superb style which boasts a mix of avant-garde, trendy looks and tomboyish mixes. Perhaps the best example of this? That head-to-toe burgundy velvet pantsuit she wore to a “Today” show appearance with sunglasses from Elizabeth & James (the brand of her twin sisters.) Sleek and unique with a white button down shirt underneath, the pantsuit is one of those outfits that we’ve always wanted to wear but never had the guts to. No word on the designer behind the uber-chic ensemble, but we’re guessing it’s Altuzarra since the designer recently showed a similar pantsuit in his most recent collection.
Perhaps head-to-toe velvet is a bit too much, but pulling off a velvet jacket is always nice, like this Halston Heritage Electric Blue Velvet Blazer, $765.
3. Victoria Justice
Disney actress Victoria Justice may still be in her teens, but she’s taken the power suit style to a whole new level. Showing up at the Kids Choice Awards in a matching coral tuxedo jacket and coral shorts, the 19-year old certainly gives new meaning to the word pantsuit. Like her suit, her shoes are flashy as well, but they seem to go with the powerful ensemble. We love the fact that the jacket matches the shorts perfectly and the gray and brown boots tie the whole look together.
The outfit comes from Elizabeth and James (perhaps Mary-Kate and Ashley got some influence from younger sister Elizabeth for this look) with the Elizabeth and James Spring Jim Blazer, $395 being paired with the Elizabeth and James Colby Shorts, $235.
4. Rihanna
We all know Rihanna is about making an impact especially with her clothing and hair looks. That’s why we weren’t too impressed with her recent pajama style at events promoting her new movie Battleship. We know pajama-inspired looks are all the rage right now (they were all over the Viktor & Rolf’s Fall 2012 runway), but we’re not really feeling it. Luckily, she recently wore something that we really are feeling. Rihanna’s Stella McCartney from her Pre-Fall 2012 collection may be attached, but it’s definitely got power suit written allover it. Not only did Rihanna prove she has clothing that covers her assets but she can also look gorgeous and strong. This time, the shaved hair look seemed worth it and the leather sandals and scarlet lips were perfect.
Stella McCartney makes a bevy of beautiful jumpsuits in various fabrics and style which are great for business or business casual. For something in a suit-y style, try the Stella McCartney Wool-Blend Crepe Hopsack Jumpsuit, $1695.
Celebrity Photos: Lily Collins, People.com; Elizabeth Olsen, Huffington Post Style; Victoria Justice, People.com; Rihanna, People.com
– Simona Kogan
Image Layout: Second City Style
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Jacqueline Zenn / April 16, 2012 9:00 am
Nothing makes you look quite as chic or adds just the right amount of polish to an ensemble as a great pair of sunglasses – they are the perfect finishing touch. And while classic cat eyes and traditional tortoiseshell frames certainly never go out of style, there are certain styles that are especially on trend at the moment.
For instance, aviators have always had a certain retro-cool factor, and right now they are more popular than ever, with hundreds of styles to choose from. We like this simple D&G pair that comes in several colorways, but the green is perhaps the most unexpected (and it would work with a variety of skin tones).
Speaking of green, hues other than the typical black or metallic tones are also showing up on fabulous faces. These olive-colored square frames by Cole Haan would be an excellent choice, and they have the added bonus of being less harsh than black, which can be extremely flattering.
Round frames are also popping up in stores, and depending on the shape of your face can be a great alternative to the more rectangular or cat eye shapes that have been more common lately. Try these Willow sunglasses (designed by the House of Harlow 1960) on for size.
Shield-style shades are another alternative if you want to experiment with different silhouettes. Something like this pair of gunmetal glasses with a high-drama, futuristic styling by Bulgari would fit the bill.
Last but not least, bright colored plastic frames were all over the runways. Try an inexpensive pair like these orange numbers from ASOS if you want to make a major statement – they would look absolutely perfect with a summertime glow.
1. D&G Sunglasses Aviator, $159
2. Cole Haan Sunglasses Square Sunglasses – Moss Fade, $76
3. Willow Sunglasses – designed by House of Harlow 1960 Sunglasses, $145
4. Bulgari Sunglasses BV6038B Sunglasses, Grey Lens, Gunmetal, $475
5. ASOS Orange Keyhole Round Sunglasses with Revo Lens, $29.09
– Jacqueline Zenn
Image Layout: Second City Style
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Joseph Ungoco / April 9, 2012 11:00 am
The old saying may be that “April showers bring May flowers”, but this spring, floral is anything but old fashioned. A whole new generation of women is claiming floral as their own thanks to the innovative offerings of some of our favorite designers. The key to the “new” floral dress is asymmetry – in the print or in the silhouette. Symmetrical floral prints will have you looking like Laura Ingalls in search of your very own Little House on the Prairie. Stick with my suggestions and you’ll rock the flower power this season!
This season’s floral offerings incorporate black to give even the prettiest of flowers a bit of bad girl edge. Prabal Gurung engineered floral stripes into his black-and-yellow full skirted sleeveless v-neck day dress. The proportions of the stripes and movement of the skirt make this the perfect option for any jeune fille – even if she is only jeune at heart!
If you loved the black-and-white trend for spring 2012 and bought your heart out, then why not add just one more dress to your wardrobe? Valentino RED offers a simple bateau neck sleeveless day dress that goes from black to white from neck to hem and features an asymmetrical floral print. Fans of classic silhouettes will love this dress as much as Audrey Hepburn loved her Givenchy.
Rocker chicks who think they can’t pull off floral are proven wrong this season by the newly revitalized Vionnet. This floral print tunic also features a white to black background, but the back is entirely black. The bateau neckline may scream classic, but the extra long long zipper pulls at the shoulders and hemline give it a dash of urban edge. Pair it with spiked Louboutins or your favorite pair of Frye engineer boots and rock out to floral!
Tired of trooping out your trusty LBD to cocktail parties all winter? Why not step out in a classic silhouette freshened up for spring with a bold splash of brightly colored flowers? Etro offers a slim sleeveless silhouette with a bateau neckline that even the most color-phobic LBD addict has to admit is stunning. If one dress proves that floral is the new black this spring, this is it!
If you’re not quite ready to cheat on your LBD, then liven it up this season with some of the freshest floral accessories. Trade in your POCs – that’s “pops of color” in fashionese – for actual poppies! Maybe it’s that I’m originally a Californian, but nothing says spring to me more than a field of poppies. Just in time for spring, Yves St. Laurent offers poppy print stacked wooden wedges that are the perfect way to welcome warmer weather. Milly offers a poppy print tote bag that is just like having your very own poppy field wherever you go.
Bad girls who crush hearts under their heels may spit tacks at this season’s floral trend, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be in fashion. Jimmy Choo wraps wedge heel sandals in abstract flowers in the season’s must have orange and fuchsia color combination. What better way to mock the trend than to put it under your feet!
Love it or hate, floral is a staple of spring. Luckily for you, this spring features new ways to wear even this old standby. Keep it modern and you’ll look – and feel – as young as springtime and twice as fresh!
1. Prabal Gurung Floral Dress, $1850
2. RED Valentino Floral A-Line Dress, $795
3. Vionnet Floral Zipper Tunic Dress, $1260
4. Etro Silk Floral Dress, $1195
5. Yves Saint Laurent Floral Canvas Platform Wedge Pumps, $795
6. Milly Poppy Print Canvas Tote Bag, $295
7. Jimmy Choo Leather and Suede Floral Wedge Sandals, $795
–Joseph Ungoco
Image Layout: Second City Style
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