Stylish Thought » Fashion

Friend Friday: Duplicate Style

Fajr — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 13:20:53 +0000

The Friend Friday project by Modly Chic is a way for bloggers to share more about themselves and create a friendly connection with other bloggers. Katy of Modly Chic sends us questions weekly, and we answer on our blogs.

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1. Which side do you take… Copycat designs are a way for the average consumer to stay current and wear runway styles without breaking the bank OR Copycat designs take business from the designer and cheapen the value of their work. Explain.

I’m really on the fence about this one. On the one hand I feel that “design interpretations” (PC alert!) are a way for the average consumer to stay current with fashion and fast fashion emporiums thrive off of recreating designer looks at low market prices. But on the other side of the stylish coin, I feel that when done without the designer’s permission it does leave a bad taste in my mouth and I’m not against designers taking legal action against companies (*cough F21*) who rip off their work.

2. Sometimes we do things, even if they are unethical or illegal (downloading music for free, watching full movies on YouTube). Do you think it is unethical for a designer to copy a vintage piece, make it current and sell it?

If the designer replicated the vintage piece exactly then yes I think its illegal, as well as wholly uninspired. However, if said designer only referenced a piece as inspiration then that’s cool and the gang. When using vintage pieces the designer needs to credit the original source.

The Dreaded Manolos bka Ma-NO-NOs! Steve Madden had is hand in the copy pot

3. Would you buy an item that is a very well done copy of a runway garment if it fell within your budget?

Are you wearing a wire?! Honestly I prefer things that are more vintage inspired than runway inspired and the only time I’ve bought (everyone say it with me) a “designer interpretation” would be shoes.

4. According to the fashion laws, at least in the US, apparel design is seen as too utilitarian to qualify for copyright protection. Would you think this is detrimental to the industry or beneficial. (Check out this video on The Taxonomy of My Wardrobe to get a better idea of this concept: )

I’m with Tom on this one: the people that religiously buy copies are not the same customer as the luxury buyer. Thus copies are not hurting the designers because their consumer base is unaffected by the knockoffs.

5. Own up… share the things in your closet that is a knock off. You know those things you got in China Town, on the streets of New York, or where ever.

Well since you’re blowing the lid off my sweat shop operation! I kid, I kid. Seriously the only things that I own that are copies would be a few pairs of shoes that may too closely follow a runway piece. I’ve never been interested in wearing things that are direct copies of a designer piece because no matter how you dress it up it’s still a fake Fendi (and we all know how that turned out for Samantha)

What are your thoughts on fake fashion?

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Beating the Nothing to Wear Blues

Fajr — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 01:14:56 +0000

Standing in front of my closet, thumbing through dress after dress nothing sparking my fancy. A wash of sadness and frustration came over me. The clothes before me were uninspiring and I was tired of looking at them, let alone wearing them, day in and day out. My denim was dull, my frocks a failure and shoes a bore. My wardrobe is more tired than a no good, cheating man, lost my dog, country anthem. It’s clear I have the “Nothing to Wear” blues.

Fashion Gone Rogue

Not those Jeans Again!

We’ve all been there. Our wardrobe has lost its luster. Every item of clothing feels outdated and frankly you feel stylishly uninspired. You’re reaching for the same jeans day in and day out and you’re feeling the urge to go out and drop some hard-earned cash on new duds because you’re convinced that everything in your closet is tragically unwearable.

As we change and our style evolves, we outgrow items of clothing that we once loved. Compound that with living in a society where mass consumption is celebrated and you have a recipe for a constant feeling of the “Nothing to Wear” blues.

Before you go out and buy more clothes that you’ll be tired of in 6 months time, take some time to think about what you want your style to say. With a little examination and ingenuity you can unearth those hidden gems lurking behind that moldy t shirt you wore 3 times this week (I won’t judge).

How to beat the Nothing to Wear Blues

Assess Your Wardrobe

Before you decide to scrap the lot of your closet and donate it to Goodwill, take an inventory of what you own. So often great items get pushed to the back of our closets (and our minds) and we forget about that amazing cashmere sweater you only wore once. Taking a day to clean out your closet, organize clothes into various categories and try things you haven’t worn in awhile can rekindle your love affair with your clothes.

*Take note of holes in your wardrobe. If you’re a denim lover and only have 2 pairs of jeans you may need to invest in a few more pairs for variety.

Remix your Outfits

While your getting busy playing dressup, mix items that you wouldn’t normally wear together. By mixing and matching pieces you already own, you’ll create new looks that can serve to rejuvenate your wardrobe without spending a dime. Additionally, knowing what works ahead of time will save you from the dreaded morning dress mad dash.

Rethink your Style

Sometimes the Nothing to Wear Blues is less about the clothes you own and more about your own insecurity with your style. If you’re uncertain about your style or developing your look, it may feel like what you own doesn’t mesh with who you are. To avoid having a wardrobe of clothes that you can’t relate to over time, avoid buying tons of trendy pieces. Stock up for well suited basics that you can build any look off of as your style develops.

Do Selective Shopping

Once you’ve examined your wardrobe and have given your clothes a second chance, you can shop selectively, buying items that fit and work with your existing pieces and build a wardrobe full of stuff you love as opposed to pieces that leave you feeling like you have nothing to wear.

How do you deal with the “Nothing to Wear” blues?

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Designer Studio: Alexandra Grecco

Fajr — Sun, 29 Aug 2010 19:45:11 +0000

Vintage inspired? Check. Frilly and feminine details? Check. Love at first sight? Check. These delightful attributes describe Alexandra Greeco’s 2010 Pre-Fall collection. The Brooklyn designer collects a wealth of inspiration from vintage shops, photography and romantic details. The scalloped shorts and heart-shaped cutout are simply to die for. Check out her Etsy shop and inspiring blog.

Follow your Bliss

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It’s Beginning to Look Alot Like Fall

Fajr — Sun, 22 Aug 2010 18:52:21 +0000

This post was inspired by Kris Atomic

After summer’s long, hot and oppressive reign I can’t be the only person ecstatic about the return of Fall. Full skirts, red lips, cat eyes, full figures, breasts, big hair and bouffants are making a comeback. The 50s and 60s looks and silhouettes are taking over fashion right now and the return of pretty is right around the corner. Kris Atomic posted her delight over the new direction of style and it inspired me show the editorials that are inspiring me for Fall.

Sources: Fashion Gone Rogue/ Trend Land/ Logical Harmony

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Boobs are making a Comeback

Fajr — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 16:38:09 +0000

Breasts have been out of style for awhile now. They went out when the waif heroin chic look entered and 12-year old Ukrainian models became all the rage. Alas, with everything else in fashion the presence of body parts is cyclical and breasts (boobs, hooters, knockers, sweater puppies) are getting their day in the spotlight.

As one of the bosomly blessed bunch, the past few seasons have been more than frustrating. The itty bitty titty committee has ruled the roost with a monopoly on backless dresses, bustier tops and V-neck tees. Where a woman’s spillage once was seen as overexposure, a little cleavage now proudly celebrates femininity and sex appeal.

The Christina Hendricks Complex

The heated advocacy for more diverse figures on the runway and in advertising is what I’m aptly calling “The Christina Hendricks Complex.” Mad Men ushered in a new era (or just a rehashed era, but who’s keeping score) of 60s silhouettes with heavy emphasis on full bosoms, nipped-in waists and full hips. Marilyn Monroe would be so proud. Victoria Secret has a bra that amplifies your chest two sizes and after seasons of designing for smaller stature women, designers are coming on the runway to proclaim the era of the Bust Lust. The hills are alive with the mounds of music.

Bosom Buddies

Women everywhere are reclaiming their “right to a lil cleav” and I know what you’re thinking. But bust lust isn’t a hippie revival, let it all hang type of thing. It’s about celebrating the GOD given assets that have been bestowed upon you.

Wowzers! Salma, Scarlett, Kim and Christina all proudly showcase their womanly assets. There is a fine line between giving ample cleave in a fitted gown and wearing say a string bikini with double Gs. No shade Coco T, no shade.

5 Ways to Maximize your Mounds

Without making this sound like a Cosmo article here are some tips on working the tits trend

Bras make all the difference: Good support means everything. There’s nothing worse than the double boob effect of a too small bra. Having the proper foundation pieces will make sure that when your girls are spilling over they won’t be spilling out.
Chicken Cutlets anyone: Everyone isn’t born with a built in shelf. For my smaller chested ladies, pushup bras and the beloved chicken cutlet inserts will be your best friends.
Save the A for another day: If you’re going to show a little T, there’s no need for the A. Pick one body part and stick with it.
Retro Please: 1950s and 60s celebrated a woman’s figure and wiggle dresses have an emphasis on small waists, big breast and wide hips.
Flaunt em and Forget em: Taking the twins out on the town can be a bit distracting but don’t let it worry you. Be confident, flaunt them and act like you’re wearing a nun’s habit. If you give them too much attention, so will everyone else.

Dress Them Puppies Up

Curves shouldn’t be a passing fad. If you have a voluptuous figure don’t be afraid to flaunt it. Pinup Girl Clothing has the works when it comes to boob flaunting styles from their Doris Top to their Retro dresses.

Are you bouncing on the Boob Train? Do you flaunt your goods or keep them covered?

The Making of a Pin-Up

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Where have all the Hipsters Gone?

Fajr — Tue, 03 Aug 2010 00:42:57 +0000

Hipster Fashion Cycle

This infographic on Hipster fashion sums up trends in a nutshell. Hipster fashion thrives on irony and bad taste which ultimately becomes mainstream; taking the fun out of it.

What do you think of Hipster Fashion?

The Girl who wears Socks with Sandals

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Losing our Essence: Issues of Race in Fashion

Fajr — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 17:53:54 +0000

The recent hiring of a white fashion director at Essence Magazine, a historic lifestyle and fashion publication for African-American women, has spurred a fashion debate rooted in issues of race, diversity and least of all fashion.

When I first heard the news about the hiring of Ellianna Placas (formerly of O magazine) I didn’t know exactly how to process it. There were so many conversations going on around the issue. Clutch magazine broke the story, the Huffington Post picked it up, Michaela Angela Davis and Nawja Moses responded with upset and heartbreak. What did it all really mean, I wondered?

Essence magazine is a totem in the black community. In its 42 year history, Essence has celebrated Black woman and sought out to represent them in a way they were not previously represented. It bought out our tastes and showed us in our various shapes, colors and lifestyles. It was the essence of us as Black women; varied, distinct and full of heart. It is less an issue of hiring a white woman and more what that hiring of means.

For some it means the whitewashing of our culture to others it means foolishly turning the other cheek while other fashion publications continue to exclude us. And for others Essence has fully betrayed their audience. While I understand these sentiments I don’t fully agree with them.

How can we as black people preach diversity, the need for more inclusion in the mainstream fashion industry and then turn around and close our doors? It’s a move of reverse-exclusion. The hiring of Placas has nothing to do with the audience. Essence will still continue to showcase black women, feature them on their covers and in their pages and show us in a positive light. The minute that changes then we have a problem.

As a black woman, one devoted to fashion and writing, I see both sides of the coin. But instead of looking at it as a betrayal I choose to see it as a step in the direction that the world should be going; less about race and more about talented people integrating. Mainstream fashion magazines need to take note from Essence’s lead and begin to be more inclusive.

What are your thoughts on the Essence issue?

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Super Style: 5 Most Stylish Comic Characters

Fajr — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 13:19:12 +0000

The world (and Hollywood) has gone comic crazy. Comic-Con has taken over San Diego and if you watch G4 (like the geek I am) there’s non-stop coverage. I mean what’s not to love about superheros, villians and the stans that dress up like them. Comic costumes are magnificently stylish. All the rubber, molded chests and cool utility belts with infinite gadgets. If I were a superhero (and yes I’ve thought about it, the Stylish Sorcerer would be my name) my costume would be gaudy and full of bows that double as ninja darts.

My alter ego aside, here is my top 5 most stylish comic characters:

1. Wonder Woman

This one is a given. Who else can pull of a patriotic leotard, powerful metal cuffs and tiara all while lassoing a whip and managing to not have a hair out of place.

2. Storm (X-Men)

In some variations Storm wears all white, a two piece and even all black leather. But her signature that no artist can change is her long white locks. Forget Anderson Cooper, Storm is the original silver fox. Controling the weather at a whim (we really need her during this heatwave) she wore her gray with pride.

3. The Joker

The only man to make the list. The Joker had eccentric style by the case load (not to mention mental issues). What man do you know can pull off white Kabuki makeup and red lips? All while being pathologically crazy and rocking a purple overcoat.

4. Sailor Moon

She is the one named Sailor Moon. How can you have a style list and not include Sailor Moon. Schoolgirl uniforms that transformed into tart skirts, long blonde pigtails and red go-go boots. Growing up my sisters and I would fight over who was Sailor, I mean she was the only one that mattered.

5. Catwoman

Black leather, cat ears, tall black boots and I’m talking the original felines (not Ms. Berry, Ms. Berry). Way before fitted black leather was fashion’s staple, Catwoman was the original fierce superhero and she still is.

ETA: Thanks Melina for this! Tim Gunn is the light of my life.

Who are your favorite stylish superheroes?

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Let’s Hear it for the Boy!

Fajr — Thu, 08 Jul 2010 00:40:20 +0000

Put away the lace and frills and rummage through your gentleman’s closet. While it may seem counter-intuitive, women dressing in menswear is the perfect way to channel your femininity. Katherine Hepburn notoriously wore trousers when Hollywood starlets were all about the glam, Annie Hall revolutionized the way we look at a vest and tie, hell Whoopi Goldberg couldn’t dress any more manly, but I digress.

Menswear worn fitted to the female silhouette brings about the kind of androgyny that made Annie Lennox and Bianca Jagger sex symbols. Sure a girl in stilettos is sexy, but a woman in a top hat and vest is sharp and sexy. Borrowing from the boys isn’t just about wearing a button up or slapping on a tie, it’s a slick mix of the masculine elements of sharp tailoring with feminine detailing and coloring.

Sharp Shirts

What’s a man in a suit without an amazingly fitted shirt? Whether crisp white or light pinstripes this is a menswear staple that can be paired with everything from trousers to skinnies, depending on what type of “guy” you’re channeling.

Trousers, but of course

Unless you plan on wearing a kilt, the options for male skirts are limiting. Diane Keaton is a master of the loose-fitting trouser. Paired with a thin belt and feminine blouse, you’ll look as smart (if not smarter) than most chaps.

Blazer a trail

Blazers are a crossover item, being as much feminine as they are masculine. To channel more of the men’s side, go for over-sized in the sleeve and longer lengths while still being a bit fitted in the waist.

Be Inspired in Accessories

There’s nothing more trite than wearing a fedora or spectator heel, so you won’t read that here. Go for lesser know accessories like the bowler hat, pocket watch, brogues or pocket square. Still manly but less predictable.

And because I can’t resist Deniece Williams (or a good pun)

Are you in touch with your masculine side? What menswear staples do you love?

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Heaven Is a Place on Earth

Fajr — Fri, 02 Jul 2010 15:47:46 +0000

Katy Perry is my alterego.. the Sasha Fierce to my Beyonce. Now I know I’m uber-late, just having watched the California Girls video, but where is this fantasical CandyLand place and how can I book my flight?!? The camp, the kitsch, the peppermint bras! Holy Smokes Batman! I’m in love with every element of this video and I’m working on a D.I.Y. whip cream shooting bra, as I type. Oh just you wait!

Sure the concept has nothing to do with California, but when the video is this fun who cares?!?

How do you feel about California Girls? Katy Perry? Be nice, she is half of me!

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