Paris Fashion Week SS'13: Days 8 & 9

Paris Fashion Week:
Days 8 & 9

We've eventually come to the end of SS'13 Fashion Month and it has done so with a bang: shows from the wonderful Sarah Burton/Alexander McQueen, my all time favourite and inspiration Elie Saab and of course: Chanel, Valentino, JCDC, Miu Miu, Louis Vuitton and Paco Robanne all showed on the final two days this week of PFW. Oh and while I'm posting this on the night of the Cosmopolitan Blogger Awards, I'd just like to say congratulations to my category winner, Lulu Trixabelle and runner up It's A LDN Thing!

Day 8

 Chanel

Stripped down to one and only element: Karl Lagerfeld took the classic Chanel aesthetic and simplified it with large, gobstopper sized pearls, clean white cuts and a little decoration in the form of some cross-stitched-esque and applique florals. My favourite looks were the simple, clean cut pieces with oversized pearls on both the clothes and the bracelets/necklaces. Some silhouettes verged on clinical - look at the white dress with oversized pearls shown above - as though they were simply a piece of cloth wrapped around the body, but in a way I still liked them as they would make for a very interesting editorial shoot. The actual show set was extremely noteworthy, as the runway was lined on either side by giant wind turnbines which could make you think that Chanel was going to take a slightly more ecological route for Spring 2013. Karl mentioned the set after the show stating: "It's more about the mood of the times, not something you translate...It's all about the wind, it's in the air". Oh and there was even a bag which was basically a hula hoop with a large pocket. Anything goes when it comes to Karl Lagerfeld though. He likes to keep us on our toes.

 JCDC

JCDC is one of those designers whom I truly have an appreciation for, purely because of his raw, creative talent and ability to have me excited about how fun fashion can be after looking at any of his collections. Spring/Summer 2013 is no different. In fact, I think he managed to shock me, but in a way that I was completely unprepared for - he gave us garments that I could actually see myself wearing. Normally, a JCDC collection to me is all for a bit of fun. To appreciate but only from afar. At his show on Tuesday however, I was pleasantly surprised with the amount of garments that I mentally wrote down on my SS'13 wishlist: the green palm tree print skirts, dresses and trouser suits, as well as the grey/beige coloured dress with large sleeves, leather side panels and belted waist. I could even see myself trying out his clear coats with almost bionic metallic detailing up the front. I don't know how I could have been more pleased if I'm honest.

Alexander McQueen

I don't think I have to tell you what the theme for SS'13 was in the mind of Sarah Burton: bee's, bee keepers and all things honeycomb. Personally I think it was a fantastic take on Spring/Summer, and definitely different from shows that we've seen this past month - which is a breath of fresh air to be quite frank. Peplum waists were back through coat tails and slightly strange framed pieces. Harness', leather and honeycomb patterns were a heavy feature in the collection, with florals taking on a brighter and quite obvious role in the finale gowns. The shoes were as ever, impeccable: the platforms were filled with tiny jewels in yellow/gold and red, with other designs taking on a netted look in black. The headgear, while undeniably interesting and amazing alongside the garments on the runway, is ultimately a show piece: Susie Bubble couldn't pull something like that off on the street. Although it would be interesting to see how someone might style that bad boy. 

Day 9

Elie Saab

My love: Elie Saab. The man who introduced me to fashion when I came across his collections on Fashion TV - you've heard this story before on here, so I won't bore you with it again. For Spring 2013, Elie Saab took on a rather minimalist approach, using bright pops of colour to make a statement. Colourful tailoring opened the show with trouser suits, nipped in blazers with a fanned peplum detailing on the front to help define the start and stop of each separate and some rather gorgeous bags to match. Then came the print: colourful ink-blot patterns mixed in with streaks of black to break things up a little and to define the waist, then flowed into lace-y pieces in black and white. The finale gowns were as ever the best part of the show. Amazingly intricate bead work with floating skirts and the odd thigh-high slit added some much needed sex appeal and red carpet sparkle. Although the collection didn't necessarily have the wow factor that we saw from the designer in February's A/W'12 shows, it was still one of beauty and I absolutely adored it.

Now that Fashion Month is over, which collection stole your heart across the four cities?

Photo Credit: www.vogue.co.uk - edited on polyvore

Paris Fashion Week SS'13: Days 6 & 7

Paris Fashion Week:

Days 6 & 7

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Day 6:

Costume National

What I loved the most about the SS'13 collection from Costume National were the striking cuts and use of very minimalist placement print on a select few garments. The mainly monochromatic collection was livened up a little with an injection of hot pink and fuchsia alongside a more subdued royal blue in contrast. Crop tops and A-symmetrical dresses with side trails were the show stoppers for me as I just thought they added quite a fun and playful feel to the collection. And those shoes - mamma mia. I absolutely loved their simplicity and single twisting strap detail. I will definitely be adding those to my SS'13 wishlist

John Galliano

Industrial oriental was the theme behind John Galliano's SS'13 collection, with a lot of heavy draping being the key feature among many of the looks. What should have appeared very parachute or tent-like actually came across quite tasteful and interesting in a way that surprised me. I loved the graphic prints and use of bold colours to make the garments pop, as well as the use of more sheer fabrics to create softer tones. Probably not the most wearable for me personally, but never the less, a rather stunning collection as a whole. 

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Day 7:

Giambattista Valli

With Giambattista Valli officially on the Couture register and a new official outlet for his more creative juices,  it's no wonder that the SS'13 RTW collection is a little more subdued and simplistic in comparison to the collections seen previously at the label. Beautifully delicate and sweet sheer dresses with applique florals were shown alongside head to toe white ensambles, followed by some metallic gold and finished with a smoking hot injection of juicy red: it was a collection of grace, beauty and just enough edge to bring it all together in one neat little package. The best part? Those metallic heels with severely pointed toe. I can't imagine they would be great for the feet after a while, but they're stunning never the less. 

Saint Laurent

As you all know Hedi Slimane took over as Creative Director at YSL earlier this year and had the well known label spread across tabloids and fashion blogs alike with his decision to change the labels name to Saint Laurent (I still wrote YSL on my show notes) and to keep his first collection for the label hidden from the press. Naturally, by the time Paris Fashion Week rolled around, fashionista's everywhere were in a frenzy over what the Spring 2013 collection would look like and couldn't wait to see it stroll down the runway. I can't speak for everyone out there, but I was massively disappointed with the collection. Apart from a few leather pieces here and there and that sparkly sequined jacket, the collection was a flop in my eyes and just looked like a promotional tactic for a Fall Rachel Zoe collection. Hedi Slimane did know he was designing for Spring/Summer, right? Where did all the capes, leather and dark colour palette come from then? Does he not realise that this kind of attire is only acceptable in Spring/Summer if it's in the UK or North Pole? I apologize if I sound a little harsh, but that's because those are the only feelings I have towards this collection. And clearly the designer knew that he would face some criticism when it was announced that he wouldn't be answering any questions backstage after the show! Perhaps it's the fact that i'm still a little bitter over the name change - don't fix something if it isn't broke - but I feel as though Hedi Slimane has a lot of work to do if I am going to change my mind on his appointment to the label.

What are your thoughts on the Saint Laurent collection? 

Photo Credit: www.vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore

Paris Fashion Week SS'13: Days 3, 4 & 5

Paris Fashion Week:
Days 3, 4 & 5

What is there to say about PFW days 3, 4 & 5 other than "wow"? Not only because we saw some of the most amazing collections from the fashion capital, but because we might have saw some of the worst from designers that we expected more from. A designer who has unfortunately fallen into this category is one of my all time favourites: Rick Owens. Before Fashion Week begins, I write down each show that I feel I want to take a look at the most and then ultimately write about; it keeps me organised and usually those end up being the shows that I do stick to and don't normally venture away from. Rick Owens was on said list for Thursdays shows, however after seeing his collection and the direction in which he took it for SS'13, I will not be featuring him in this post. If you know anything about Rick Owens, you'll know that he is known for his exquisite and absolutely amazing leather pieces; well, all I can say is that his Spring 2013 collection could not have ventured further from this if it tried. There were a few black and leather pieces towards the end, but not enough to satisfy me. Just click here and you'll see what I'm talking about.

Day 3

Balenciaga 

Sporty yet sassy: that is how the Balenciaga girl will be feeling next season, with an array of flirty A-symmetric cut skirts and boxy cropped tops in leather and mixed knits. What I really love about the looks is just how sexy they are, but in a non-obvious way; the knitted jumper with blue printed skirt, or the boxy crop top and high-waisted frilly skirt with super sexy thigh-high slit - It's almost like taking a pair of stilettos and wearing them with track pants or something. My favourite piece is the mini circle skirt with dipped hem and contrasting trim. It's simple and casual, yet dressy and formal at the same time. I just love how versatile it could be. 

Balmain

I don't have to see the rest of Paris Fashion Week to know that I've found my ultimate SS'13 favourite from Fashion Month. Balmain is, without a doubt, my favourite label and Oliver Rousteing definitely knows how to produce collections that tug on my heart strings and have me instantly lusting after; even with the Balmain menswear label, I find myself loving every piece and thinking how I would love to see it on my fiance! It's an all round appreciation that I have and the SS'13 collection just reinforces that with a bang. For Spring 2013, the Balmain girl will be channeling her inner 90's gangster, with huge shoulder pads (YES!), high-waisted skinny & over-sized trousers, checker board patterns and leather, leather, leather. As soon as I saw the shoulder pads, I immediately thought of a French blazer from the 60's that I bought from a vintage store in Glasgow two years ago and how it would look perfect next season. It hasn't seen the light of day in a while, and I always love a good revival, so I'm excited to style it for the new season. I don't think it's possible to choose a favourite look from this collection, as I absolutely adore every single piece. Can I have one of everything please? 

Nina Ricci

Just how stunning was that rose petal shower at Nina Ricci? Paris at Midnight seemed to be the inspirational key feature for SS'13 with luxuriously silky sheen fabrics, movement via fringing and a colour palette to die for; navy, black, pink, blue and grey. There was something for everyone - from a sexy skinny leg trouser suit, to a fun and flirty deep V cocktail dress with fringing. There was even a little S&M referencing through harness belts almost entirely sheer belted coats. I just loved how sultry and romantic the collection felt through the fabrics, colours and cuts - it really is a beautiful collection and one that I have a feeling will be a hit with buyers for Spring 2013.

Day 4

Dior

At Milan we waited with baited breath for the return of Jil Sander at her self named label, and for Paris, the same can be said for Dior as Raf Simons shows his debut collection for the design house. Dior is widely known for it's sophisticated and classic aesthetic, so it could be said that Raf Simons had a lot on his shoulders when designing for SS'13. I think he did a wonderful job however keeping the classic aesthetic, whilst mixing in some of the most popular trends for next season - space-age being one - in an appropriate way for the Dior woman. That high sheen blue fabric used for his skirts and mini dresses looks as though there is a high voltage running through the garment and is actually rather beautiful. It's definitely something that I could see myself wearing - especially with those metallic point-toe courts.Towards the end of the collection we began to see the classic and well known Dior silhouette in the form of long sleeve dresses with full rose-printed skirts. I liked that Raf Simons kept the two-tone sheen in those garments, as it really does give it something extra.

Day 5

Viktor & Rolf

Was there anything not to love in the Viktor & Rolf SS'13 collection? Metallic pleat panels, rose printed motifs, varsity jackets paired with floor length evening gowns and one stunning draped body suit. It was a collection that I just adored and didn't want to end. The play of monochrome with a little injection of shine-y silver and that A-symmetric floor length gown (3rd from the right) just had me at hello. It's such simple concepts, but entirely timeless and impressive at the same time.

A.F.Vandervorst

There was a definite gangster-esque feeling at the A.F.Vandervorst SS'13 collection made felt through the rather amazing waist belts and double breasted, belted coats. One single fastening, with four layers of unfastened belts felt a little holster like and as though a gun should be attached in some way. I loved that they were metallic gold and gunmetal because it added a little attraction to some otherwise simple looks. What was the most interesting about the collection though, was the use of gold in both the fabrics as well as the styling - gold body paint? A little strange, but it does kind of make you think of an alien race and in turn, the space-age trend that has swept Fashion Month like a storm. I don't think I'll be trying out the painted top with white trouser combo but you never know, Lady Gaga might be a fan!

Which is your favourite collection?

Photo Credit: www.vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore.

Milan Fashion Week SS'13: Days 4, 5 & 6

Milan Fashion Week SS'13:
Days 4, 5 & 6

Before I begin, I just want to start by explaining the lack of content yesterday: After looking at hits on each show review so far, I found that people enjoyed the posts where I collaboratively reviewed a few days at a time, rather than each individual day. So with that in mind, I thought I would wait a day and give you a review from days 4, 5 & 6 together to see if that received a better response! 

Day 4

Fendi

What I loved about the SS'13 collection from Fendi the most, was the use of colour and subtle prints here and there which made the collection look vibrant, inspiring and cool. One little detailing that I had a particular appreciation for, were the looks which had peplum detailing that then doubled up as pockets. The shoes were particularly gorgeous and I'll tell you why: they reminded me of being back home in Glasgow. Why? Well purely because they resembled the Armadillo: which is an exhibition centre shaped like an armadillo and covered entirely in glass. The shoes themselves had an armadillo shaped arch on the front and the heel was covered in studs - when both elements came together, the Armadillo centre was just the first thing that I immediately thought of. In terms of the clothes, my favourite pieces happened to make their appearance at the end: gold, glitzy, shimmery and completely indulgent, they portrayed Fendi as the extravagant and luxurious fashion house that it is to the absolute best of their ability and closed the show with style.

Genny

If I had to put my finger on just one factor which drew me to the Genny SS'13 collection, it would have to be the leather wide leg trousers with dual contrasting waist and side stripe. I absolutely love them, which is strange for me seeing as I really don't wear a trouser which isnt straight or skinny. The mix of soft muted tones and slightly brighter teals and turquoise were stunning and the almost subliminal use of print was a great way to introduce a little excitement to the overall look. I just loved how laid back yet dressy the whole collection felt. The head scarfs were the only negative in my opinion, but apart from that, the collection was just exceptional. 

Jil Sander

The Jil Sander SS'13 collection was probably one of thee most highly anticipated shows for fashionista's everywhere due to Jil Sander returning to design for the label this season and I don't think anyone was disappointed. The collection was very clean cut, minimal and right up my street. The coats were probably my highlight, as I just love anything that feels a little over-sized, long line and cosy. The colours were gorgeous without being in your face like most of the collections that we've seen so far this month and the use of larger sequins on white garments was a clever way to introduce that particular trend as well as give an extra texture to something so plain. It was lovely to see the designer take her bow and I can't wait to see future collections with her back at the label.

Day 5

Missoni

Texture played a huge part in the Spring 2013 collection by Missoni, with a few garments actually resembling some sort of ligament or muscle. I'm not just being strange: seriously, Google what a muscle looks like and then have a look at the white ombre design second from the right - not the pattern, but the way that the fabric has been manipulated. Similar, eh? What I loved the most from this collection, was the use of sequins to create texture, dimension and a play on the dye trend which has been shown at a few shows for SS'13. I think it's great how the designer used them to play with colour and create an ombre effect from red fading in to white. The shoes in this collection were also stunning with the pop of colour being shown at the ankle in a minimal way to keep the focus on what was happening up top. It might not be a collection that I would wear personally, but it was certainly lovely to look at and appreciate. 

Giorgio Armani

How beautiful is this collection? Made up of mainly dove grey, ice blue and navy, the Giorgio Armani Spring 2013 collection portrays a starry sky and just immediately has you wanting to buy something silky. The fabrics are just so luxurious and appealing: they make you want to reach out and see if they feel as good as they look. The injection of print with more subtle looks was done perfectly and didn't overpower those more toned down pieces. It seems that I'm having a little extra appreciation for the Giorgio Armani brand this Fall with this SS'13 collection as well as the launch of his new Maestro foundation in October. If you haven't already popped into your nearest Giorgio Armani concession to try it, you really must. I didn't believe the consultant when she told me that the foundation actually gets better as the day goes on - I mean, hello! I have an oily T-zone, it's never going to stay - but I now happily put my hands up and say that she was right. I didn't even see the need for powder or blotting sheets throughout the day. It really is a miracle foundation. Anyway, that's enough brand appreciation for one day!

Salvatore Ferragamo

Salvatore Ferragamo clearly had one thing on his mind when he started designing his SS'13 collection - riding; Not classic equestrian though, oh no. It was edgy, updated and actually started to merge into some sort of Roman armour towards the end with the introduction of sequins and metallic fabrics. I loved the muted colours, subtle python print and those over-the-knee-high boots - oh my, weren't those screaming sex appeal? The quilted leather texture, belted dropped waists and A-symmetric folds on the dresses were seriously chic and definitely something that will be gracing the inside of my Spring 2013 wardrobe. I'm definitely more a laid back/casual-chic person when it comes to styling, so this collection is ranking highly on my Fashion Month favourites list. 

Day 6

DSquared2

I have always had an appreciation for DSquared2: when I first discovered Fashion TV as a kid, this designer alongside Elie Saab were the first shows I laid eyes on and ever since I've just loved the collections that they produce. I think it's hilarious that they asked Jedward to hang out with them backstage before the show stating that "twins stick together", and it's maybe a reason why I like the design duo so much - they're just so fun. For Spring 2013, the designers channeled the 90's with super short skirts, lots of knicker shorts and even some denim and long length dresses to keep a hold of some dignity. Accessories played the largest role in the collection however, with one look consisting of a black bikini top and bottoms with about 10 necklaces and bracelets layered on top, finished off with a lacquered hat on top. It was crazy and of course totally unwearable unless you're attempting to become the next Jodie Marsh, however the embroidered knicker shorts would look great with some hosiery to keep everything in check. I've already witnessed a girl in Newcastle with her bum cheeks on show (during broad day light), I don't want to see that again - no matter how skinny you may be. It's only acceptable on the runway. My favourite look from the collection would have to be the quilted leather mini dress with t-shirt underneath. I'm just a sucker for quilted leather in general, so when it is combined with the gold accessories I'm all over it. 

Roberto Cavalli

Finally, we have the Roberto Cavalli collection. Much like the Just Cavalli collection shown on Friday, there was a new air about the fashion house. It was fresh, crisp and clean and sported some amazing prints and all-white ensembles. After seeing quite a few designers show large portions of their collection all in white, I'm starting to feel a little inspired to see what I can come up with myself. The shredded trousers in white, black and nude were an interesting concept and had a more punky feel to them: mixed in with the clean whites and amazing prints and you had a winning combination. The collection was over-all elegant, sophisticated and contained just the right amount of edginess to keep the collection from being too grown up or boring.

Don't forget to let me know which style of reviews you prefer: whether it be daily, individual shows or a full weeks worth run together in the one post. This helps me give you the best content that I possibly can!

Photo Credit: www.vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore

Milan Fashion Week SS'13: Day 2

Milan Fashion Week SS'13:
Day 2

Prada

There was a definite oriental theme going on for Prada's SS'13 collection, with spray painted floral prints, lots of fur and daisies. The clothes however, although interesting on their own, were enhanced by the accessories and this is probably the reason that the collection appealed to me so much as a whole - not because I would wear them, but rather just to sit and admire; Sock shoes with thong bow detailing in white, blush and metallic made the models feet look a little hoof-like and strange if I'm being honest. The platform sock shoes with floral detailing and cute blush fastenings made the concept a little more wearable, however still perhaps a little too daring for myself. Absolutely amazing to admire though! Then on to the bags - oh the bags. I loved the mini clutches covered in white fur, decorated with little daisies around the top and strap.  Very 60's chic but with the oriental twist to liven things up a little more. Overall it was a collection to entertain and make us think about wearing things that we might not have otherwise thought of!

Ermanno Scervino

Ermanno Scervino SS'13: such a gorgeous collection. What I loved about it was it's wearability for women of all tastes and lifestyles. There were simple - yet chic - black and white pieces, with perforated leather, feather tassles and jewel encrusted sections that made the looks stand out from the crowd. In between there were a series of sherbet yellow and pink looks that injected the right amount of colour to liven things up and give us options for Spring 2013. I loved the scythe heeled sandals with the white pant suit, as well as the perforated leather pieces. There were definite trends in this collection that I could see myself wearing for SS'13.

Could you see yourself wearing any of the pieces shown in Milan yesterday?

Photo credit: www.vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore

London Fashion Week: Part I

London Fashion Week:
Spring/Summer 2013 - Part I

Do you all remember who I am? I feel as though I haven't written any proper content for Vita di Moda in a few months, rather than only a few days: that's what happens when you treat your blog as though it's your livelihood and career, eh? If you read my last post entitled "FYI", then you will know that the reason for my absence was due to moving from Glasgow to Newcastle for university and that I've been a little preoccupied with course inductions, moving in and meeting some new people. Now that I've got my inductions out of the way though, I can now put all of my focus and concentration back here and get some reports done for London Fashion Week. As you know, fashion week in London kicked off last week and actually finished today so I thought it would be a good idea to just write a collaboration and bring you little snippets from a few of my favourite shows in one big post. Well, two posts. There are a lot of shows from LFW that I want to share with you - what with LDN being so innovative and eclectic and all - so I'm going to split it into two parts, with part II coming tomorrow morning so make sure you check back in for that!

Antoni & Alison

I have to say that Antoni & Alison always catch my attention when it comes to fashion week. Their collections remind me of a class that I took at Glasgow School of Art, where we visited a Mackintosh exhibition and then created child-like pieces of art using the inspiration we sourced from our visit, which we then scanned into photoshop and then created repeat patterns to print onto fabric. That is the same kind of principle that Anthony & Alison used when designing their SS'13 collection: locked in their studio for 4 days just creating art and collaborating their end results. The outcome for the SS'13 collection? Sheer fun, imagination and a sense of simplicity in the midst of all the chaos. I love how 3D everything looks and just how something simple such as a squiggly pen mark on paper can transform into a pretty interesting print. It reminds me why I have a love of art, fashion and design in the first place.

Bora Aksu

The main thing which drew my attention to this SS'13 collection by Bora Aksu is the hosiery. How amazing are those tights? The head gear is a little Bishop-meets-Burker-King-kids-party, but anything goes at London Fashion Week. The first few pieces in the collection seemed more couture in the sense that they were great to admire, but not to wear however as the collection progressed, more and more looks started to stand out as winners. In a prominently blue-hued collection, the pop of yellow was a welcomed sight and like I said at the beginning, those tights were one piece that I felt I really wanted to pull off come SS'13. The sheer fabrics and layering were a trend which seemed to have crossed 'the big pond' from NYFW and made it's mark in LDN - a trend which I absolutely love: especially when it is in the form of a rain coat or overlay top. Overall the collection was fun, colourful and exactly the type of thing that you expect to see from LFW. 

Sass & Bide

Sass & Bide is missing a Y on the end of Sass in this collection. Pops of colour from coral pants and gorgeous cocktail dresses with furry bell shaped skirts: plunging V necklines and of course my favourite accessory: the reflective metal waist belt. The subtle print and embroidery details on some of the looks from the SS'13 collection are gorgeous and exactly what the collection needed to save itself from looking too flat in comparison to other shows from LFW this week. Sex appeal came in the form of thigh high slits, bare shoulders and a sneaky peak at the decolletage. It is a collection which could fit in at both NYFW & LFW and that is perhaps why I have taken a shine to it so much: I love the elegant and polished looks from NYC mixed in with the originality and edge from LDN. 

John Rocha

Initial reaction when I laid eyes on the John Rocha SS'13 collection? These girls have forgotten to take off their shower caps. Head gear like this is just a little OTT and unnecessary in my opinion, but then again, LDN does what it likes and doesn't form to any specific ideal. The clothes themselves were gorgeous however: cotton candy-esque dresses and pants in sheer fabrics (again, also seen at NYFW) of blush, white and red soon turned into a darker, edgier woman with nipped in waists, cropped & full length jackets, solid black lines and gave off a very sophisticated and powerful vibe. The John Rocha woman is one of good taste, but not to be messed with. 

Preen

Flirty florals mixed with deadly python - this is exactly something that appeals to me: hard with soft. Edgy yet simple enough to be worn by any woman. The boxy, over-sized T-shirt silhouette in the shirts and dresses is another feature that was seen at NYFW this month and I absolutely love the little sheer, peek-a-boo panel on the white shirt to the right there. The shapes seen at Preen were very space age-y and I think it is safe to say that women everywhere will be sporting their intergalactic sides come SS'13. Designers from Alexander Wang to now Preen have shown this style in their Spring/Summer collections and have definitely set the trend in stone - better start channeling you inner Katy Perry E.T now in preparation. 

Marios Schwab

Marios Schwab showed us a variety of ways to wear fringing for SS'13 in a collection full of brightly coloured leather, chiffon and tulle. Again, the space age feeling came through on the catwalk, especially with the models makeup and the print used on some of the looks. The middle image above for example resembles the light panels seen on the bottom of a Hollywood movie UFO. I think this particular trend will be interesting for SS'13, as there are various ways to incorporate it into your looks: from fringe detailing to abstract prints or even just in the form of a statement necklace. Everyone will be able to indulge their alien sides and I think I might just try it out too. The raspberry pink leather dress shown above featuring floating panels, much like the entire collection from Alexander Wang might just be the way in which I adopt the trend!

Matthew Williamson

Half tutti frutti, half bleach dip dye. The opening looks from Matthew Williamson's SS'13 collection featured blazers, shirts and trousers all in dip-dye with a look that resembles those badly processed photographs that you would receive from disposable camera's back in the 90's. I absolutely love it. I have already added the trousers to my wishlist for Spring/Summer however I'm wondering how difficult it would be to attempt a DIY and replicate something similar? The second half of the collection was a mish-mash of colours - each look in the same staple colour hue - which created a nice sense of flow and movement: Almost like a sunset, or when an orange sky melts into the blue ocean beneath it. The collection was definitely stunning and one of my favourites from LFW this season. 

Mary Katrantzou

Large, over-sized postage stamps. That was the main designs from Mary Katrantzou's SS'13 collection and what a collection it turned out to be. Being the queen of print, it was hardly a surprise that she would create something of this stature, however I'm pretty sure it has enough wow-power to influence the most conservative of women to try and incorporate a little print into their Spring/Summer wardrobes next season. My favourite look had to be the satin blue trouser suit shown left above. I probably wouldn't adopt both pieces at the same time, however the trousers would have the power to remain one of my wardrobe staples for a long time after SS'13 - I'm not one of these people who pack away clothes in preparation for a new season. I like to mix everything. This collection is one that has inspired me for the coming season and I can't wait to see how the high street will interpret it for the mass market. 

Look out for Part II tomorrow!

Photo credit: vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore.

NYFW SS'13: Rodarte

NYFW SS'13:
Rodarte

What was there not to love at Rodarte SS'13? Oriental style opulence, glamour, elegance and a complete raw edginess just rounded off a perfect collection. There was a strong eye for detail in every look shown with chains, gold detailing, woven jacquard and impeccable embroidery that will have you left staring for hours and you would continue to find some new little detail that you didn't quite notice the first time round. Leather fringing and lace-up leather leggings were thrown in for good measure, paired with geometric patterned jumpers - I would actually consider attempting said look if I'm honest.

I don't normally go for the regular T-shirt silhouette in dresses, however I like how the cut gives a more laid back feel to such an opulent evening wear look. I think Kristen Stewart will be a big fan of this collection to be honest - at least on the red carpet anyway, don't you think?

Photo credit: vogue.co.uk - edited at Polyvore

NYFW SS'13: Oscar de la Renta

NYFW SS'13:
Oscar de la Renta

Would any NYFW be complete without some sort of acknowledgment to the one and only Oscar de la Renta? Absolutely not. Collections from Oscar are always whimsical, elegant, aesthetically pleasing and just generally amazing as a whole: and SS'13 did not disappoint. 

Opened by the lovely Karlie Kloss, the collection began with a very sophisticated, yet edgy day look consisting of: red high shine latex top (even ODLR reads Fifty Shades clearly...), chunky waist belt, high waisted cream pencil skirt with thigh-high slit, power dressing black blazer with shoulder padding and a statement rose necklace. The continuing looks featured a lot of sheer lace, high belted waists and a serious colour injection: turquoise, pink, red, yellow, gold, black, white and beige-y tones. It really was like being in a candy shop and your eyes take an orgasm over the amount of colourful treats on offer. The finale gowns were simply stunning: full skirts, belted waists and hi-low hem lines updated an otherwise classic silhouette. 

The hair? Well is it just me, or does it actually look like something from the Time Warp? Or the type of style that you see on some sort of Transylvania cartoon woman? Either way, I like it and I definitely think that coloured hair will be a trend for SS'13 - in NY at least!

What do you think of the SS'13 collection from Oscar de la Renta? 

Photo Credit: vogue.co.uk - edited at Polyvore

NYFW SS'13: Bibhu Mohapatra

NYFW SS'13:

Bibhu Mohapatra

And so the reports have began. Rather than suffer nightmares consisting of a mountain of NYFW reports swallowing me up whole, I've decided to skip on the beauty sleep and dive straight in to making some what of a dent in said mountain. First up: Bibhu Mohapatra SS'13.

The SS'13 collection from Bibhu Mohapatra was once again influenced by the designers Indian heritage in terms of colour choice and sumptuous fabrics. Origami florals resembling stained glass windows took centre stage on many of his designs, with structured silhouettes and peplums softened slightly with the lace inserts and sheer panels on his evening wear designs. My favourite aspect of the collection however, was the flowing fishtails on the evening gowns and the show stopping stained glass prints: It's definitely a collection that will have heads turning  in Spring/Summer 2013 on both the streets of NYC as well as the red carpet. I would love to see newly wed Blake Lively in either looks from the bottom image, left to centre actually.

What do you think of this collection? Any collections from NYFW that you would like to see in the spotlight at Vita di Moda?

Photo Credit: www.vogue.co.uk - edited on Polyvore

NYFW SS'13: Day 6 Round Up!

NYFW SS'13
Day 6 Round Up!

Ok, so day six of NYFW gave us SS'13 shows from the likes of: Carolina Herrera, Wes Gordon, Reem Acra, Mandy Coon, Marc Jacobs, Gilded Age and 3.1 Phillip Lim - however, here is a little collage of my favourite looks from a few select designers. Enjoy and don't forget to let me know which designer caught your eye!

NYFW: By Misha: Wishing Well SS'13

NYFW:
By Misha SS'13 - Wishing Well

When I was invited along to the debut NYFW SS'13 collection from By Misha and realised that I unfortunately wouldn't be able to attend, I was crestfallen. The preview illustration was just so beautiful, I knew that the entire collection would follow suit and be a great event: so to have missed out on the opportunity to view the collection in person was just so disappointing. My spirits were soon lifted a little however, when the event images and video fell into my email inbox - so I'm going to share them with you and give my thoughts on the collection as a whole!

                        
                                           By Misha S/S 2013 NYFW "Wishing Well" Presentation

The collection overall was very feminine, colourful and fresh with the use of coral hues, pinks and yellow: colours which have just exploded all over the runways at NYFW this week and are proving major trends for Spring/Summer 2013. The floral applique and ring finger manicures were cute little details which, combined with the models poses and smiles, gave the feel of the collection a very fun and flirty vibe. I've definitely found myself lusting after a few pieces from the collection: if only...

What do you think of the new By Misha collection?


Photo Credit: courtesy of DDPR

NYFW SS'13: Day 5 Collage

NYFW SS'13:
Day 5 Collage

Rather than stress myself out with a load of detailed reports on my favourite shows from Fashion Week each day, I am going to put together a little collage for you and then get to the reports a little later on. Fashion Week combined with moving to Newcastle this week is getting a little stressful: I mean, I didn't go to sleep until 5am and then I was up at 10am this morning. I have dark circles. It's not a good look.

Anyway, enjoy!

Photo Credit: Images via vogue.co.uk - edited by myself on Polyvore