Spotted in Alumni Hall, freshman Cameron Costa sporting a very Ralph Lauren-esque look. The exposed collar and cuffs of her button-down, as well as the muted pattern of her blazer, put a fresh spin on being preppy in the Fall 2011 season.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Monday, October 17, 2011
Post #91: Spotted at Colgate - Lauren Radigan
Spotted in TriDelta, junior Lauren Radigan looking chic and playful in a cream-colored dress. A flattering belt at the waist with lace-up gladiator sandals to match pull this ensemble together beautifully.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Post #90: Fashion on Film - Singin' in the Rain
Let's face it, the number of people walking around Case Library in pajamas is reaching an all-time high this week. And that's ok. We all need a break especially with the stress of mid-terms upon us. So, instead of chastising the Colgate population for their sweatpants and lounge-wear, I thought I'd embrace it.
If you've never seen the 1952 movie "Singin' in the Rain," then you're missing out. One of the classic Hollywood musicals of all-time, it not only has great songs and actors, but it also has great fashion. The costumes in the movie were designed by Walter Plunkett, who designed the costumes for over 100 Hollywood films including Gone with the Wind. His masterful work is especially shown-off in the musical number "Beautiful Girl." Possibly even rivaling the costume sequences of The Devil Wears Prada, the number represents vintage fashion at its creative height.
What does this have to do with pajamas? The very first costume worn by the first "beautiful girl" is supposed to represent couture lounge-wear for the time. "For lounging in her boudoir this simple plain pajama..." So just take a moment to imagine if everyone in the library were wearing "plain" pajamas with fur, bright colors, and silk or satin instead of gray sweatpants and flannel PJ bottoms...and laugh. Happy studying Colgate.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Post #89: Spotted - The Ultimate Guru
While a lot of the Colgate population is dressing pretty cutely, nobody needs the added pressure of possibly being "spotted" during the start of mid-terms. So, when you want to take that 5-10 minute study break, check out this article instead: Click Here to Read "The Business of Blogging". The interview was done for The Business of Fashion, which is a website that explores exactly what its title says: the business of fashion. But what's really important is that the interview is with Scott Schuman. If you don't know, Scott Schuman runs The Sartorialist, which is an exceedingly popular and profitable fashion/photography blog. He's pretty much the founder of the "spotted" manner of looking at fashion...so, go ga-ga over his eye for style and photographic prowess. His business strategy isn't bad either.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Post #88: Trend Report - The Middle Finger
The tradition of wearing rings has been around since approximately 4,800 years ago. Such a time-lasting tradition now permeates our society in the form of promise rings, engagement rings, wedding rings, and, most importantly to this blog, statement rings. As is customary, most of these rings are traditional worn on a woman's left-hand ring finger. After briefly looking into this custom, I found out that it started because of a Roman belief that the vein in one's left-hand ring finger (the "vena amoris") was directly connected to the heart (and thus love).
For the longest time, I only bought rings for/wore rings on this finger. I thought it was the prettiest and most graceful place to wear a ring (after all, your ring fingers supposedly have the gentlest touch according to make-up artists). But then, designers started making these statement rings that covered the first third of a finger or more.
The first one I bought was the one shown below. It cost under $3.00 at Charlotte Russe and even though it turns my finger green when I wear it (it washes away, I promise!), I love it because of just how bold it is. Note the size though: it touches from knuckle to knuckle and even reaches out to cover small sections of my pinky and middle fingers when together.
While I still love the way it looks and while I legitimately only bought rings for my left-ring finger for 18 years of my life, one day I decided to branch out...and I fell in love with the concept of the middle-finger ring.
Something that this look reminds me of is the kind of gloves that are about elbow length and have a "V" that ends with a loop around the middle finger (like the example below). I cannot exactly figure out what movie I've seen these in or what era they're from, but something about them screams either Romeo and Juliet or The Other Boleyn Girl or something along those lines.
My philosophy is that it draws attention to the beauty of the hand's construction. Also, it makes sense to have the largest finger on your hand be the one occupied by the largest ring you're wearing. Perhaps the ring finger should be more delicately preserved. All of that being said, here are my current favorite statement rings to try this trend out with:
If you're feeling whimsical or prefer a ring with a little more character and color, the Crystal Elephant Stretch Ring ($50) from Betsey Johnson is definitely something to look into. This week was actually the first time I had ever tried on a ring with a stretch band (personally I always thought they took away from the ring by looking chunky and ugly). However, they're incredibly comfortable and once on your hand the band all but disappears.
If you want something a little less playful and a little more intricate, then definitely look into Forever 21's Damask Knuckle Ring ($5.80). As of today, it is out of stock, but definitely be on the lookout for it. It's not only gorgeous, but it's perfect for that extra little bit of space that your middle finger has. If you like the look of this, but want something that looks perhaps a touch more expensive, Urban Outfitters' Other Worlds by Species ring (right, $24.00) may be what you're looking for.
This next ring, also from Forever 21, definitely gives off the impression that you got it in some faraway land. And while my one criticism of Forever 21 rings is that the gemstones in them can look pretty costume-y or cheap, I don't get that vibe from the Textured Filigree Ring ($4.80). It's a statement piece that could dress any outfit up or give your outfit just the right finishing touch.
For the outfit that requires something a little less flashy (or a little more edge if a piece of hard silver jewelry will do the trick), a hammered sheath ring is the way to go. Anthropologie's Mycenaean Ring ($32.00) is a perfect example of this.
If that's not "trendy" or "cool" enough from you, Urban Outfitters' Chrishabana Bone Hinge Ring could be a cool alternative. If you've never heard of a hinge ring before, it's pretty much exactly what it sounds like. When your center knuckle bends, the ring bends (on its hinge) with it. Pretty intriguing, no? While this is currently out of stock as well, either use it as inspiration or find someone who's still selling it.
If you like things that are creepy and crawly (serpents a trend this season, after all), or you just like things that twist up your finger, the middle finger gives you the most space to gracefully do this. Neiman Marcus sells a gorgeous Snake Ring by Aurelie Bidermann ($205.00) that you should definitely check out.
A final note on "middle-finger" rings is that this is a great finger to show off rings that have flashy or large gems in them. The fact that it's the center of your hand allows things to stay looking symmetrical and balances the largesse of the ring out. That being said, if you can make a large splurge (or can find something similar to it), Armenta Heraldica's Oval Bloodstone Ring (sold at Neiman Marcus for $4,835.00) is gorgeous. If that's not nearly in your price-range though, get a little funkier and try out Urban Outfitters' Circling Serpent Ring (right, $24.00).
In any case, I suggest that you try wearing your jewelry in a new way. Maybe it will make you like something you haven't worn in a while more again. Maybe it'll make someone take notice of the "symmetrical beauty" of your hand. Or maybe (and I'm not telling you to do this but...), just maybe, it will make giving the finger to someone a little more fashionable. Enjoy.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Post #87: Something to Note - Louis Vuitton's Mary Janes
It seems like designer's are going all out for the school-girl look when it comes to shoes this season. With Mary Janes from renowned designers such as Christian Louboutin making their presence known (in the online world at the very least). However, my favorite shoe of the season is these Mary Janes from Louis Vuitton. Made in their classic monogram and leather (you have to love how it carries all the way through the heel) with the daintiest of straps, these shoes might just be worth the $960 pricetag...well, maybe...but they sure are classic.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Post #86: Fashion on Film - Alice & Olivia Fall 2011
Maybe it's just my addiction to all things with a vintage vibe, but Alice + Olivia's Fall 2011 Tag-You're-It video is my favorite fashion film in quite a while. The mise-en-scène of the film perfectly ties into Stacey Bendet's quirky designs and how fashion choices reflect our individuality. The collection was presented at New York City's Plaza Hotel, which, to me, makes the use of lace and vintage accessories (like the first hat we see, gloves, pearl ropes, and cat-eye sunglasses) feel even more reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's. Set to the sounds of "Jerry Weintraub" by Waldeck, this film may just be sheer perfection.
And if you just can't get enough Alice + Olivia, you can shop the collection on ShopBop. Playing with flapper style and manipulating silhouette, here are my three favorite looks from the collection:
Photos From: http://nymag.com/fashion/fashionshows/2011/fall/main/newyork/womenrunway/aliceandolivia/#slide12&ss1
http://nymag.com/fashion/fashionshows/2011/fall/main/newyork/womenrunway/aliceandolivia/#slide23&ss1
Monday, September 26, 2011
Post #85: Spotted at Colgate - The Hair Bow
If you thought that hair bows were a thing of days past, a fashion element of your childhood that you'd never return to, then think again. While some people may consider bows to be juvenile, I'm going out on a limb and calling them the pick-me-up to your fall wardrobe. For the past couple of weeks I have been noticing more and more girls on campus tying ribbons into bows on their ponytails, but today I saw and fell in love with the bow in the picture above.
As a fan of almost all head and hair wear (I may obsessively wear headbands and hats), the focus of this particular post is zooming in on the hair bow clip instead of the fabulous headband bows of Blair Waldorf on Gossip Girl.
The bow clip reminds me of everything from Alice in Wonderland, to Betsy Johnson, to sisters frolicking in the woods with white bows in their hair in the 1926 silent film Ménilmontant. Bows can be sweet, demure, quirky, or totally prep. You can find them in classic black, bright colors, or prints.
If you're going to try out this trend, then I advise that you bow it up with a hairstyle that's half-up/half-down. If you're hesitant about it, start out small.
Picture From: http://origin.kaboodle.com/hi/img/b/0/0/163/7/AAAAC7HeVvgAAAAAAWN0hw.jpg?v=1308753863000
Picture From: http://data.whicdn.com/images/8199520/tumblr_likfaleSgv1qaoueko1_500_thumb.png?1301013996
If you're feeling bold, then definitely take a cue from the fabulous Zooey Deschanel and go big or go home.
Picture From: http://nightfame.com/style/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/10_zooeydeschanel_hair_bow_getty_thumb.jpg
...but maybe don't go as big (or as on top of your head) as Katy Perry.
If you're wondering wear to get your bow (and don't want to make your own), Forever 21 and Etsy are great places to start looking. Forever 21 offers them at very low costs in plain colors and simple patterns. Meanwhile, for a few extra bucks, Etsy make not only the bow but the center of the bow more intricately designed (and you're more apt to find bows in larger sizes here). A few of The Mannequin's personal favorites are listed below. So wear a bow...because who doesn't like presents?
The Adorable Black and Red Polka-Dot Bow (3" x 1.5") on Etsy
The Skull and Crossbones Pretty Peach Hair Bow Clip (3.5"x4.5") on Etsy
Forever 21 Black Satin Bow Hair Clip
Forever 21 Floral Bow Claw Clip
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Post #84: Designer Interview - Elsa Brodmann
After coming across designer Elsa Brodmann because of G-Eazy's "Runaround Sue" video, I couldn't resist looking up the woman with such a gorgeous vintage eye for clothing. Creator and designer of the fashion line Ottilie Brodmann (http://www.ottiliebrodmann.com/), Elsa Brodmann is definitely someone to keep your eye on. The Mannequin asked her for an interview...and I am thrilled to tell you that she agreed to it. So here are ten questions for and answers from an intensely awesome young designer:
Photo From: http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=1312347491664&set=a.1312344891599.45157.1319966684&type=1&theater
The Mannequin: What made you first become interested in fashion?
Elsa Brodmann: I came from a family that was always interested in fashion. My grandmother was a dressmaker in Germany. My mother grew up in the 60s and 70s and when having disposable income, would spend it on her favorite designers, which were Charles Jourdan, Bruno Magli, Valentino, and Gucci. My aunt would make her own clothes that both my mother and sisters would wear...and then there came me. They gave me a lot of the clothing and accessories they wore and it started my love for classically designed garments that make a woman feel like lady. I got my first pair of high heel shoes when I was 13 and I was hooked.
TM: I read that you initially started out as a freelance costume designer, what made you decide to switch to designing your own line?
EB: Film. I grew up watching films from the 50s and 60s and a lot of my inspiration comes from that. Sometimes even further back. I watched Sunset Boulevard and then became intrigued by Gloria Swanson and started watching her old silent films. I then started designing a collection from that.
TM: The name of your line, Ottilie Brodmann, is different than your actual name, what was the inspiration behind it?
EB: The name came from my grandmother Ottilie. I wanted to use her name as an homage to the initial origin of my desire to design.
TM: Do you design for the art of the clothes or the woman wearing them?
EB: The woman wearing them. I appreciate clothing that is more conceptual, but for myself, I enjoy designing clothes that I like to wear. There is a brown ruffle dress from my fall 2011 collection that I love wearing and is appropriate for several types of occasions. Both my clients and the models that have worn my clothes say the same thing. It makes them feel sophisticated and ladylike and that is what I strive for.
TM: What has been your favorite project to work on as a designer (costume, fashion, or otherwise)?
EB: I really love commissions. I am working on a potential commission with an Arts Center in New Orleans and it really inspires me to challenge myself in my design capabilities and to make something different and awe-inspiring.
TM: Where do you look to for inspiration in your designs?
EB: Film. I grew up watching films from the 50s and 60s and a lot of my inspiration comes from that. Sometimes even further back. I watched Sunset Boulevard and then became intrigued by Gloria Swanson and started watching her old silent films. I then started designing a collection from that.
TM: Out of everything that you've ever designed, do you have a favorite piece?
EB: I made a midnight blue dress inspired by a design worn by Elizabeth Taylor, The dress was worn by a woman that greatly inspires me: burlesque performer Trixie Minx. She wore it to my first solo runway show, which I had at Louisiana Artworks. It looked great on her!
TM: Growing up, did you have a favorite designer?
EB: Yes, but so many! I love Elsa Schiaparelli, Mary Quant, Andre Courreges, Christian Dior, Pierre Cardin, Jil Sander, and many more!
TM: Your current collection (as well as the costumes in G-Eazy's "Runaround Sue" video) has a very vintage vibe to it. Do you see yourself continuing on with this vintage trend in the future or do you see one of your next collections being more modern?
EB: I live and breathe vintage. I will always have a more classic look to my clothes, but will play with a more contemporary look here and there. For me the classic ladylike look will never go out of style.
TM: If you could choose anyone, living or dead, to wear your clothing, who would it be and why?
EB: I would say Vivien Leigh. All of the characters she played in both stage and film had such great depth to them, whether it be Ophelia in Hamlet, Scarlet in Gone with the Wind, or Blanche DuBois in A Streetcar Named Desire. She had difficulty being taken seriously with her acting talent because of how beautiful she was. I think that is something that a lot of talented women have to prove...how capable they are despite appearances.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Post #83: Spotted at Colgate - Tri-Delta Bid Day T-Shirts
Spotted in the backyard of 84 Broad Street, Tri-Delta love in the form of incredible girls wearing awesome sorority t-shirts.
Sunday, September 11, 2011
Post #82: Something to Note - Standout Fashion of the Week
While I'm always enchanted by the ethereal yet edgy presence of Keira Knightley, this weekend I'm obsessed with her wardrobe. At the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival, Ms. Knightley donned a nude Elie Saab Couture dress that embraced all of her signature qualities.
From the front, Knightley's dress looks demure and almost cutesy. The airy quality of the fabric and the exquisite quality of the embroidery were matched in edge by both the longer sleeves and the draping of the back of the dress. From Elie Saab's Fall 2011 Couture collection, this dress is certainly something to note.
And just in case you just can't get enough, you can see the entire collection, starting with Knightley's dress, here (it's really worth a look):
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Post #81: Fashion on Film - Runaround Sue
From the tenth second of G-Eazy's "Runaround Sue" music video, I was captivated. The vintage costume of the lead girl reminded me of all of the reasons why I not only love fashion, but its history as well. The vintage-inspired dresses worn by all of the characters not only look good within the context of the video, but have the ability to transcend time (I can definitely see them showing up at sororities at the very least). At a point in history where fashion is taking inspiration from shows like Mad Men, the fashion in this film is certainly something to take note of. The costumes were designed by Elsa Brodmann, a New Orleans native with a penchant for freelance costume design and distinctive style. Creater/Designer of the clothing line Ottilie Brodmann, she is definitely a designer to watch.
Post #80: Spotted at Colgate - Juliana Reider
Spotted in Frank Dining Hall, sophomore Juliana Reider embracing fall trends. Layering a lace shirt over a black tank top looks fashionably lady-like (and French!)...and to cap it all off, she even wore a beret.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Post #79: Fashion on Film - Crazy, Stupid, Love
Normally when it comes to the clothing in feature-length films, the women get all of the credit. And while a woman (Dayna Pink) was the costume designer for this summer's Crazy, Stupid, Love, it's Ryan Gosling's character (Jacob) who continually caught my eye. No, it wasn't just because Ryan Gosling is an incredibly good-looking male...it was actually Jacob's 36 costume changes that captivated me and made his character complete.
In an article in Entertainment Weekly, producer Denise Di Novi (referring to Gosling's character) said "His clothes are his art. It's a way of giving his life some higher meaning" (http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20513701,00.html). I can certainly relate to this. Most times when I walk into my closet, I think to myself "what outfit will make me feel the most confident doing x activity?" or "what will make me look and feel studious?" A character is never complete without their costume (right down to their underwear).
Gosling's character is a perfect and nuanced example of this. Being cocky and (somewhat rightfully) overconfident in his ability to woo the ladies, Jacob doesn't fear looking dapper or a little more "choosily dressed" than the above-average male. Dayna Pink dressed him in custom-made suits by Albert Hammon Jr. (of The Strokes) and Ilaria Urbinati (professional stylist). As if the suits themselves weren't enough, Pink made sure to take the next step in having Martin Greenfield (Brooklyn-based tailor and icon) produce the items, making sure that they perfectly fit Jacob's physique.
Finished off with shirts from Alexander McQueen, Simon Spurr, and YSL, along with rings by David Yurman and shoes by Givenchy, Jacob's style is nothing short of the epitome of (albeit flaunted) sophistication. And his character is all the more believable because of it.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Post #78: Spotted at Colgate - First Day Outfits
From sundresses to layered tops, from pre-Labor Day white to bright colors, from button-downs to t-shirts, Colgate students pulled out all the stops when getting dressed for the first day of classes. In honor of our lucky number, The Mannequin spotted 13 looks that ran the gamut of trends and styles.
(click on pictures to enlarge them)
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Post #77: The Mannequin's (Shoppable) Fall Picks - J.Crew
Going back to school always puts me in a preppy mood. That being said, today's shoppable picks come from J.Crew, which is nothing less than the epitome of (non-edgy) prep. While sweaters and cardigans rule the scene, you can always count on a random piece or two to spice up these necessary classics.
One of my favorite things about J.Crew is the quality. A sweater from here is infinitely warmer than one from my go-to Forever 21. That being said, here are The Mannequin's "top" picks:
The Merino V-Neck Sweater ($59.50)
Fisherman Sweater ($98.00)
(check it out in hthr acorn *above*, vintage champagne, and hthr moss)
The Jester Sweater ($118.00)
The Houndstooth Moore Blazer ($395.00)
This might just be on of my favorite blazers ever. It is beautifully classic. If anyone has a picture of how it fits, send it in!
For a fuller look, try the Blythe Shirtdress ($178.00). Although I might switch out the belt for a darker brown one. It would also look great with tights.
For bottoms, J.Crew is offering a few nice twists on classically preppy pieces for Fall. The Mannequin's favorite shorts, skirt, and pants picks are below.
The Origami Mini in Houndstooth ($128.00)
The Tweed Walkaway Short ($118.00)
(don't you just love the detailing on the pockets and belt loops?)
The Stretch Vintage Bootcut Cord in Gatsby Green ($79.50)
(All Pictures From: http://www.jcrew.com)
Happy Shopping Academic Fashionistas
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)