m.clifford Designs

So, Big News!! I’ve moved to Charlotte! Unfortunately this means the end of Wilmington Fashion Report   Thanks to all the readers out there! 

I also wanted to let you guys know about this awesome handbag designer I am helping, m.clifford Designs.  She is based in Charlotte, but has showrooms in NY and LA and all of her bags are made in the USA!!  Her bags are the definition of luxury.  They are beautiful and chic, but are still practical! They have pockets for you cellphone, PDA, or in some bags even a laptop!  And all are lined with her signature red fabric. 

Check out her website here:

http://www.mclifforddesigns.com/

It is currently being updated for the Spring line, so keep checking back for new designs!

Also, you should become a fan of her facebook page, since she is having a contest where once she gets to 400 fans, she’s giving away a free bag (The Garbo hobo)!

http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/mclifford-Designs/123477618344?ref=ts

Best of luck to all!  Who knows, maybe there will be a Charlotte Fashion Report soon! xoxo

Best of London Fall 2010 Fashion Week

There were a lot of the same trends on the runways in London as there were in New York; metallics, textures, trousers, fur, etc.  Less designers show at London than in New York, so there is just a smaller sampling of these looks.  There was one trend that really stood out to me more in London, though, and it was the designers use of some crazy patterns (almost like watercolor), and the mixture of these patterns (like patchwork.)  You’ll see what I mean at the end of the post.  Here are the continued trends for London:

Metallics & Sequins

Definately less abundant than last year, but still here nonetheless!

Mixing Prints

Always in style, but always a challenge.  Gotta love that!

Fur

Fur vests, fur scarves, fur sleeves, fur collars, fur cuffs….you get the picture.  Fur accessories are more abundant and more practical than all out fur coats, especially in Wilmington.

 

Relaxed Pants

Definately the biggest trend of the season, and I think it’ll stick around for a while.  Love the striped pants from Sass & Bide!

Textures

London catches on, too.

Sportswear

Think classic pieces made out of sweatshirt material and really soft cotton.

Over The Knee Boots

Fun Tights

New Trends!

Not-so-mini Dresses

London picked up on the trend of lowering hemlines for the Fall, as well.

Full Skirts

Funky Patterns

Lots of watercolor-like fabrics, patchwork, applique, and embroidery;  Chistopher Kane practically sent down a whole collection of black leather, each piece with different embroidery.  I don’t know if the designers buy the fabircs like this or make them themselves, but they are truly pieces of art.

How cute is this little pup??

Well, that does it for the London runways, but speaking of London, Target just got in the new limited edition Liberty of London line.  I went yesterday and picked up a couple mugs, a throw pillow, some undies, and notecards, all for under $40!  Can’t beat that!  They have some really cute patterns on everything from gardening tools and piggy banks, to clothing and lamp shades.  Go check it out!

Best of New York Fall 2010 Fashion Week

The Fashion Weeks are wrapping up and I’m excited about the trends I see on the runway for next fall.  There are definately some extensions to trends we will see this Spring season, and also some that are recycled from the last Fall season.  It was a bittersweet ending to this year’s fashion week in New York, since it was the last time they will be held at the tents in Bryant Park, but it should be interesting to see how the shows will play out at the new venue (Lincoln Center) in September.  Anyway, since the Spring weather can’t decide if it wants to fully committ to Wilmington yet, maybe we can all be a little inspired by these looks.  Below are the trends that I saw in New York.  I will start with the trends that are a continuation from the current season or recylced from last season:

Jumpsuits

Yes, Jumpsuits are still hanging in there, which I am excited about, since they are so comfy and you can practically wear them year-round.

Metallics & Sequins

Although they aren’t as abundant as on the Spring runways, designers are still using metallic fabrics and sequins to add a little glam to their collections.

Mixing Prints

I’m pretty sure this is always in style, as long as you do it right!

Cute Shorts

I absolutely love the cold weather shorts look and you can wear a lot of the styles without tights when it gets warmer, too!

Fur

Okay, so fur isn’t really trendy, it’s just kind of necessary when its cold outside.  And I was surprised how many fur coats I saw in Wilmington this past winter!  For the next season, though, I saw a lot more fur accessories than just fur coats.  Think fur hats, fur collars, fur trims, even fur on shoes, in all sorts of colors and lengths.  Pick whichever is right for you, below are just a few examples:

Relaxed Pants

This started with the harem pants seen at the fashion shows in New York, London and Milan last season, but it was actually the Paris designers who really spotlighted the baggier pants all the way through the leg.  Now the two have mixed and combined to make a more relaxed pant, whether it be an ultra flowy straight leg, or a pleated, tapered cut trouser.  Point is, pants are a bit roomier than the super skinny styles from before.  Keep in mind though, that this trend is not seen in denim (for now). 

Textures

Textures were also one of those trends that were introduced more by the Parisian designers last season.  We saw a lot of ruffles and flowers on the Spring runways.  There were still some ruffles for the fall, but also lots of chunky knits, tweeds, dots, petals, feathers, etc.  It’s also fun to play with these textures when layering.

Sportswear

What I mean by sportswear is basically pieces made out of sweatshirt material or really soft cotton.  My favorites are blazers, but it can also be pants or shirts, and they are all comfortable and cozy.   This was mainly introduced by Alexander Wang’s collection last season.  Here are a few more variations:

Over The Knee Boots

That splurge you made on those over the knee boots may not have been such a splurge after all…

Fun Tights

Patterned or glittery tights are a great way to add another dynamic to your outfit.  There are so many colors and styles.

Okay, now on to the new stuff.  There were a few new trends that I saw for the fall season:

Not-so-mini Dresses

Seems like for the spring, the hems couldn’t get any shorter.  Now, the designers have given their frocks a little more length, but it doesn’t make them look any less sexier or fun!

Full Skirts

Long, full skirts are a great option instead of pants for the fall, and if they are light weight you can wear them when it warms up, too.

Patched and Painted Denim

This is a great way to spice up your denim collection.  It could also be a fun DIY project: just splatter some paint onto some old jeans!  Seems like skinny is still best.

One last thought…..how cool is this necklace?

That’s it for New York! London is next!

Who do you think will win Project Runway?

The Project Runway finalists just showed their collections at the tents in Bryant Park for fashion week, but with a twist.  Normally only the top three designers show their collections and producers will through in a couple of decoys (other Project Runway designers, who didn’t make it to the top three) to also present so that nobody really knows who the top three actually are.  But, this season, the producers allowed all top ten designers to show, making it an even bigger guessing game as to who really are the top finishers.  So basically, the audience at the Project Runway show got to see ten collections with ten pieces each from the top ten designers and then they posted it online!  So now we all get to see the collections and are left to guess who won! I’m not sure how I feel about this, since i thought it supposed to be one of the prizes that you get to even go to Bryant Park and now you just have to make it to the top ten and you can still show?  Doesn’t make since to me, but anyway, below are the collections:  Which do you think is the winning collection?

Amy

Anthony

Ben

Emilio

Janeane

Jay

Jesse

Jonathan

Mila

Seth Aaron

Emilio and Jay are my favorites! Who are yours?

Best of Fall Menswear and Spring Couture 2010

The Fall 2010 Menswear and Womens Couture shows just wrapped up and I wanted to share some of my faves!  First, I’ll do the men.  Since men don’t really follow trends I won’t linger long on the subject, but to tell you the truth I saw a little bit of everything on the runway anyway; baggy pants, slim pants, long coats, cropped coats, button-ups with normal collars, button-ups with tiny collars, skinny ties, square ties, loose t-shirts, structured tops, and a whole slew of sweaters.  That being said below you will find my favorite looks.  I just chose more casual looks, since it seems easier for men to look sharp in a suit, but harder to find the right casual combo. I’m not a big fan of turtlenecks or baggy pants on men, so you won’t see any of that.  It’s all about the fit and layering, and don’t be afraid of scarves boys! (hold your mouse over the picture to see the designer)

I also thought it was funny that Kanye and Amber Rose got STANDING ROOM ONLY at the Junya Wantanabe show and positioned themselves right in front of the camera!

Okay, on to the Couture!  Seemed like there were less couture shows this year (thank you economy), but the ones that still went on were very much fun, which is what couture should be.  Some couture shows just seemed like more extreme versions of their Spring ready-to-wear collections, while others were, well, a little less explainable.  Here are my faves:

Ciara wore this ensemble to the Grammys and I’m sure we will see many more of these looks on the red carpet.

Womens Fall 2010 Fashion week kicks off in New York on Thursday so stay tuned!!!

Blue Tassel Tunic on Ideeli

Remember this awesome tunic by Blue Tassel that was at Lula Balou last season?

Well, if you missed it at the store, it’s available now at http://www.ideeli.com/closed . Ideeli is a “members-only shopping community in the U.S that offers limited-time sale events that feature the most sought-after brands in fashion, home and beauty — at up to 80% off.”

Sizes are selling out quickly so go get ‘em!  You have to become a member, but it doesn’t take that long. 

Send me your email if you want me to send you an invitation to join Ideeli!

Winter Sales and Spring Previews

Happy New Year Everyone!!

Retailers are starting the New Year off right by having some MAJOR Sales!!

Sole Searching has a Buy 1, Get 1 Free sale happening (except jewelry)!! How awesome is that!

Winter clothing is 60% percent off and shoes are 50% at Beanie + Cecil, which is crazy.  You can get these awesomely hot Loeffler Randall booties for half the price! And believe me, they are hot….I tried them on

Monkees is also having 60% off all of their winter items, including Stuart Weitzman boots, Dolce Vita booties (pic below), Tory Burch Shoes, Juicy Couture Platforms, BCBG leggings (pic below), Milly tops, among many many others.  They also have a huge selection of Resort wear to check out too!

Island Passage also has full racks of sale items, including this Free People cropped tuxedo jacket I have had my eye on:

They also have a lot of their new spring stuff out, and of course it is super cute! I’m loving this Free People borrowed boyfriend shirt.  It has a tie in the back, so you have the feel of a baggy men’s shirt but is still really flattering to your figure. $105

I’m definately feeling a surge of mini-skirts for spring.  I kept getting drawn to them.  Island passage has this cute Glam skirt in a number of patterns and colors. $50

I love the color of this BCBG body con skirt.  Island Passage has it laying right next to a very cute Tulle floral blouse that would go perfectly tucked into the skirt.

Draped skirts are also a must! They are so flattering on all body types! Try this LA Made skirt also at Island Passage. $79

Another trend I am very excited about for the transition into spring are cute sportswear pieces.  Think tailored pieces made out of your favorite sweatshirt material.  Check out Alexander Wang’s Spring collection for inspiration:

http://nymag.com/fashion/fashionshows/2010/spring/main/newyork/womenrunway/alexanderwang/

Get the look locally with this Tulle Fleece trench coat at Island Passage, $54

Over at Ziabird, Spring items are creeping in, too.  Just arrived are Jennifer Behr crystal glam headbands, featured in the latest InStyle Magazine.  Prices range from $68-$600.

While you are there check out the fun, feathery, leather cuffs and whimsical capelets from local designer Amanda DeLeon.

There are many more sales to check out, so check back soon!

Last Minute Gifts & Stocking Stufffers!

Still looking for those last few gifts for your family and friends?  I would recommend checking out the Blue Moon Gift Shops off of Racine Dr. (across from Gold’s Gym).  You are guaranteed to find something for everyone!! They have everything from jewelry and clothes, to art, clocks and cutting boards!  Some of my favorites were a golden sculptured Buddha, a large mermaid hanging from the ceiling, and cute doggie chew toys! (see the “chewy vuitton” chew toy below)

This shop, “Dorky Yorkie” also has these super cute onesies for babies that go along with the funny designer names like “Gucci Coo,” “Calvin Whine,” and “Louis Spitton.” How clever!

There are a range of items in a range of prices, so go check it out, I’m sure you’ll find something! (if not for yourself!)

Happy Holidays!

Shopping for Fall Part II

I finally got time to go shopping again!  I guess it’s technically almost winter, but the weather outside says otherwise, which is okay by me!  I found some really cute stuff, below are my faves:

The holidays are coming up, which means a lot of parties and functions.  Here are a few party dress options:

Love the colors in this Max & Cleo tube dress from Sonny B. $150

Metallics are also a fun option from black for the holidays.  This Ya tube dress from Sole Searching is so cute! $49

Another option is this Max & Cleo Silver dress from Sonny B. $150

If you’re looking for a dress thats a little less flashy, but still fun, this Max & Cleo Fringe dress is perfect! Also from Sonny B., $157.50

I’m also loving this Max & Cleo classy purple houndstooth print dress from Sonny B. $110 This one can be dressed up or down!

Another fab look for the holidays is a great pantsuit, with a fun shirt.  Check out this outfit.  Grab the BCBGeneration Tuxedo jacket from Lula Balou $128….

Layer it over this BB Dakota sequin tank from Sonny B. $66

And finally finish it off with these BB Dakota skinny black pants also from Sonny B. $84

Right now Sole Searching has some fabulous necklaces that can dress up any outfit.  Looking for something edgy, yet refined? you need this gold & onyx necklace. $169

For a classier look try this impressive freshwater pearl necklace, $120, which has matching pearl hoop earrings 

or either of these Lenora Dame Pearl Necklaces $115, $120

And every lady needs a good cocktail ring.  Choose from any of these plus more at Sole Searching, $29-$39

During this time of year, I am always on the lookout for cute long-sleeved dress.  The buttons on the sleeves really do it for this Vfish dress from Sole Searching, $115

Another option to winter-ize your skimpier dresses are to layer long-sleeved shirts underneath.  The sleeves on this Mystree black shirt make it more dramatic.  From Lula Balou, $48

Turtlenecks can feel very restricting, but the cut-out lace shoulders of this XCVI shirt makes it a little more refreshing and super-cute to wear under a tube dress.  From Sole Searching, $99

Both of these shirts also play well with the trend this fall to emphasize shoulders.  Another trend that is big right now is draping.  Whether its used in more of a sporty style, like this Gado Gado skirt from Sole Searching, $69

or whether its incorporated into an every-day piece, like this Aryn K. navy blouse from Sonny B., $89, this look is always flattering.

Textures are also very happening during this time of year.  How fun is this Ya vest from Sole Searching? $49

Differnt textures and patterns are also good for outerwear, since this is the part of your outfit that people see the most when it gets chilly.  This 3 Sisters paisley coat from Lula Balou is guaranteed to be a head-turner, $248

This D.E.P.T tweed jacket reminds me of Chanel, and I love everything Chanel! Also from Lula Balou, $140

This Fumblin’ Foe military style brocade jacket is also a nice choice, from Lula Balou, $130

Another way to dress up your outerwear, is with fabulous shoes!! Boots & booties are a must!  These Seychelles black booties from Sole Searching kick booty! $115

Buckles are hot right now, especially on these Not Rated grey boots from Lula Balou, $75

These Matiko suede booties are cuties! From Lula Balou, $140

Looking for something taller and funky?  These two Irregular Choice boots are for you.  First pair from Lula Balou, $248, second from Sole Searching, $269

 

As far as bags go this season, faux-skin is in.  Love the utility of this Shiraleah handbag from Sonny B. $89

This Melie Bianco bag is super soft! From Sole Searching, $89

The bucket style handbag is also back.  This Melie Bianco bag has the option of using a longer strap, and I love the woven texture.  Also from Sole Searching $110.

What are some other pieces that I need this season you ask?  Well, for one, a hot mini skirt!  This  BCBGeneration body con skirt from Lula Balou is very slimming, and versitile.  Wear it with a cute top for going out, or a t-shirt to dress it down, $88

Another piece that I wear almost every day is a cardigan.  Even though I don’t ride horses, I tend to love everything equestrian, like this Charlotte cardigan from Lula Balou, with it’s horse and bridle print.  $118

 

And don’t forget to add a little bit of color to your winter wardrobe.  Its easy to wear all black, but its more fun to wear a color!  Try this Trinity multi-colored tank for literally a splash of color.  From Sonny B., $62.50

 

Well hopefully you will all leave a little bit inspired   Have a Happy Thanksgiving, and safe travels!

Raleigh Shopping and Upcoming Wilmington Fashion Events!

So I went shopping in Raleigh earlier this week at the North Hills Mall and was very pleasantly surprised by the amount of quality boutiques in this shopping center!  I actually grew up in Raleigh, but since I’ve moved away this mall was torn down and then rebuilt as an outdoor shopping center, so this was the first time I had been back since they completed it.  Think of it as a mix between Lumina Station & Mayfair.  Anway, if you are planning on doing some shopping in Raleigh, I would definately recomend checking these places out at North Hills:

Vermillion                                                                                                                                                       http://www.vermillionstyle.com/                                                                                                                                                                     This store would be comparable to Beanie + Cecil.  They carry 3.1 Phillip Lim, Loeffler Randall, Lela Rose, Pucci, Balenciaga, and many more.  Very Classy Stuff.

Scout & Molly’s                                                                                                                                                   http://www.scoutandmollys.com/                                                                                                                                                                    This store is quite big and they definately have something for everyone, including a seperate shoe room.  They carry a wide range of brands like Tibi, Nanette Lepore, BCBG, Trina Turk, Alice & Trixie….They also have an impressive collection of Joes Jeans & AG Denim. 

Gena Chandler                                                                                                                            http://www.northhillsraleigh.com/index.phpview=interior&page=viewstore&storeID=84                                                  Their actual website is under construction, but you can find info about them from the North Hills link above.  This was my favorite store!  I knew I would want everything inside when I saw a sparkling Gryphon skirt on a mannequin through the window, and I was right!  They have an AWESOME selection of brands and styles.  Velentino Red, Juicy Couture, Diane von Furstenburg, Alice + Olivia, Haute Hippie to name just a few.  They also have a massive denim wall full of J.Brand, True Religion, and many more brands of jeans.  I scored a custom Chanel Tee that they have printed in LA and I love, love, love it. 

It is so soft and the deep-V and fit make it surprisingly sexy.  It also comes in gray and black.  Get yours for $85, they sell out quick!

There is also a Uniquities and a Monkees in the shopping center, so if you haven’t found anything at the first 3 spots (which is pretty much impossible), you are bound to find something here.  We are definatly spoiled by the Monkees down here in Wilmington, though.  It is much bigger and has more selection.

I also wanted to let everyone know about a few exciting events happening in Wilmington this weekend!

Saturday, November 21st

Bargain Box Fashion Show – This Event is SOLD OUT!  More details and pics to come….

Sunday, November 22 7-9pm

Banana Republic is hosting its 5th Annual Holiday Charity Fashion Show at their store in Mayfair, which benefits  The Leukema and Lymphoma Society.  There will be food from The Melting Pot, free wine, and a 25% discount on anything bought after the show!  There will also be some awesome raffle prizes donated by local businesses.  I will actualy be participating as a model in this show, so come laugh at me!  Tickets are $10 now, $15 at the door.  Stop by the store and get yours!

Also starting this weekend you can save 25% off you purchase at Beanie + Cecil, just by doanting 3 canned goods!  This cause is to benefit the Food Bank of Eastern and Central North Carolina.  This awesome chance to give and get back will continue through Sunday November 30th!

 

Hope to see you all out and about this weekend!