I Dress Like a New Yorker

The time has come again for the bi-annual pilgrimage of fashionistas to the holy grail of heavenly style…New York.

If you’ve been following me for a while you know that I no longer attend; I watch the shows online and steer clear of the 18 hour days. I’m getting too old for that ish and I had my fill during my teenage and early 20’s. Still, though, I maintain my personal style and the streets of DC have become my omnipresent personal NYFW. I’m not out here in the ubiquitous pattern play of a thousand styles, but I’m doing my thing. I LOVE NYFW, don’t get me wrong, and the street style is something so unique in itself. But with these frigid February temps I’m happy to be watching from the warmth of my office checking out the street wear and recaps from other bloggers I love (shoutout to the DC Gals over there representing this week-> Primp&Proper, Southern Anchors, and The Black Blazer! )

skirt from Romwe (get it here)
J.Crew sweater (similar here)
Ralph Lauren top (get it here)
Aldo boots (sold out)(similar here)(budget style here)
bag by Pamela Barsky (shop here!)

photos by Mark Chen

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What We Do In The Darkness Will Come To Light

Even in the dead of night,
If we can make it to the morning,
We can get things right.

With NYFW upon us I retire to my own bedroom, not a hotel room amidst a concrete jungle. Another year of spending the week not making the pilgrimage to Lincoln Center and avoiding all that has become the “peacocking” of Fashion Week. If I were to attend, though, you’d bet your butt I’d be in a uniform like this one of cozy velvet culottes, a warmth-enhancing turtleneck and a statement coat, perusing the newest collections in the most professional of ways. In reality, I’ll be working my real job in fashion, staying warm and snowless, and prepping for my upcoming trip. Here’s hoping South Africa Fashion Week is less of a zoo of observant, hungry passionates and more of serious sartorial business work.

Uniqlo HeatTech turtleneck
Necklace c/o Current Boutique
Culottes by Nicole Farhi

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NYFW ReCap (Fall/Winter 13/14)

This is the second season in a row I’ve missed of NYFW; the firsts since I began going in 2008, in which I’ve done everything from modeling, volunteering, dressing, and various other behind the scenes jobs. How did this happen? It can’t happen again.

Thanks to modern technologies, Style.com and WWD I’ve been able to keep up with the shows as they happen which is great! I love all the street style blogs as well and between these media outlets and my friends’, it’s still as if I’m at Lincoln Center or MADE, all whilst in the warmth and comfort of my office desk.

Now, since I’ve been able to keep up I’ve garnered some decent opinions and reviews!  While I was sadly unimpressed by the simplicity of many collections, including Narciso Rodriguez, Proenza Schouler, and Alexander Wang (come on, guys, I was expecting a little more “oomph”; prints and fun silhouettes!), there were some collections that blew me away, as well as certain stand out pieces from collections.

**Click on the images to make them larger!**

First up, a long time favorite, Alice and Olivia. I covered the presentation a few years back and I’m always in love with the flirty femininity and cohesiveness of Stacey Bendet’s designs. This season was no exception; the perfect mix of edgy punk, equestrian, and holiday dressing for next seasons colder months. The tartan plaids show the comeback of 90s trends, while accents of lace and fur offer romanticism and cozy warmth, all together. My favorite look is the open back black lace gown, hubba hubbbaaaa.

Keeping with the 90s comeback trend, Rodarte’s collection had me nostalgic for the tie dye and acid wash summer camp apparel of my youth, but in more ‘fall’ hues and grown up styles. But really; acid wash denim printed silk? Tie dye printed nylon?!  I can get behind that. And the creeper-stilletto hybrid shoes: GET IN MY CLOSET. NOW. I’m serious.

Oscar. Oh, Oscar. Fun fact: despite my punky facade I have an addiction to ball gowns. I own about 5; I only went to one prom. This season’s collection from Oscar De La Renta was nothing short of breathtakingly spectacular. From the saturated hues to the detailed work, tonal gauzey gloves, and even the equestrian hats, it was LOVE. My favorite look is definitely the caped plum ensemble, little red riding hood goes goth, yea? Does this lines’ exceptionalaity have anything to do with the lent hand of John Galliano? Most likely.

Now, on the opposite side of the spectrum and back to my punk preferences, Jeremy Scott kept up his usual game. Also heavily 90s inspired, his sweaters are cheeky and graphic; one of each please!? I foresee Rihanna in some of these pieces, but her and I should both be leaving the head-to-toe lemon-lime fur at home, or maybe in the showroom.

More favorite looks from NYFW: Pearly irridescents at Nanette Lepore, fall hued mirror prints at Tracey Reese, gorgeous pattern play at J.crew, loud and proud ode to New York at Kate Spade (and who can resist the sweet prints, pun intended), and accentuated hips at Vera Wang.

Other notable points from NYFW? Both Betsey Johnson and Kenneth Cole sent their models down the runways on cell phones; oh the 21st century. There’s been an emerging trend both on the runways and on the red carpet of diamond cleavage; you know, what Kate Hudson and Katy Perry were recently seen in. Yea, that; subtle yet trending and with bazonkas like me, this is a trend I’ll definitely be trying. Plenty of tiered ruffled full length skirts counteracted full, shorter circle skirts. Color trends look to be tonal reds all around, deep muted blues, and plenty of black and white neutrals.

While that’s all for NEXT year’s cold wintry months, I’m ready to start looking forward to THIS spring! Stay tun ed for wishlists and outfit posts from yours truly ❤

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End of NYFW: Socialyte Co Party

After a few quick fashion shows at Greenhouse on Wednesday evening, I headed to Griffin for the Socialyte Co end of NYFW party hosted with Rebecca Minkoff. It was a fun-filled event full of bloggers of all tiers. I mingled with a few of my NYC Fashion Bloggers, including one of our newest members, Kate, who I’d been chatting with for MONTHS and only just now officially met! Drinks were sponsored by Bombay Sapphire gin, with special Rebecca Minkoff/NYFW names! My favorite was called the “Rebecca Minkoff” a, lovely mix of gin and pomegranate syrup. The DJ played throwback hits, having all the ladies dancing around. I got to see Kimberly of Nerd in Heels for the first time since her move to California, and met an amazing jewelry designer, among other industry people.

H&M Skirt

Hanes tee

Wild Pair pumps

It was a blast, but sadly my NYFW wasn’t quite finished…

Devon Thomas

After the Stevie Boi show it was back in line to be checked in for the Devon Thomas show, which started almost immediately after my arrival. The collection was quite a contrast from the Stevie Boi show, with more classically influenced pieces with modern trends. Some pieces were fluid and drapey, which was gorgeous along the runway. Other pieces were more structured with strategic cut outs, which obviously I’m a fan of.

All in all, I’m digging this fairly new yet versatile line of clothing. Also, DYING for the ensemble with the green top and flowing skirt, as well as the cut  out blazer!

Boy Meets Girl Presentation

So, I digress, I was out of NYC from Friday-Sunday. Yes, during NYFW.  Why? My cousin got married in the mountains of Pennsylvania where I didn’t even have cell phone coverage to check up on the live tweets from all my friends at Lincoln Center.

But, as soon as I landed back in NYC it was GO GO GO. I had an hour to get ready for drinks and dinner, starting at the Bowery Hotel (where I spotted a handsome man…only to notice he’s taken by an adorably casually dressed Emma Roberts) and then dinner at my favorite Giovanni’s Venti Cinque. Dinner was cut short, though, as I rushed down to Avenue for the Boy Meets Girl by Stacey Igel presentation.

I’ve been going to the Boy Meets Girl shows for three seasons now, and have always had a blast. After making it past the outside crowds and proving I was on the list, I walk into a crowded, star studded event. Angela Simmons, Omarion, The Veronicas, NBA players I don’t know the name of…Obviously, as I previously stated I’m not easily swayed by “stardom” so I go about my life as is, seeing what’s left of the collection (I arrived unfashionably late) and mingling. If anyone is familiar with the brand, which you should be, it’s mostly known for the adorable vintage silhouette love-inspired tee shirts and hoodies, so I’ve always viewed these presentations as a fun, relaxing get away from the normal seriousness of NYFW. The event was sponsored by Monster Energy drinks (which I downed a zero calorie 12oz, as was needed), Stoli Vodka having drinks and raspberry-chocolate macaroons (my stomach still doing flips thinking about them) and Neuro Beverages, which I’ve recently become a major fan of.

I managed to run into Monroe, and we took a random photo of our shoes, just as the party was dwindling and the club began to shut down. Monroe wore her Jeffrey Campbells, my stillettos were from Wild Pair by Bakers. Obviously, I have the feet of a bound Asian.

Stay tuned for Stevie Boi shades, Devon Thomas, and more NYFW coverage!

NYFW Day 2: Fashion’s Night Out

Having lived in NYC since it’s beginning, Fashion’s Night Out is a scary thing for me. It means over crowded streets, starry-eyed teenagers, and alcohol. And of course, the rare occasion you actually get close enough to a celebrity.

I personally rarely get star struck. I despise teenagers who act like teenagers, and I’m not into wall to wall crowds. I made it my mission to stick to VIP/guest list only events, but even so found it hard to attend everything I wanted. I began in the West Village, grabbing a quick bite at this little french bistro then heading to J Brand, where Nicky Hilton was showcasing some jewelry. I’d met her before, and also ran into some old friends from college. After about 15 minutes, though, my “manager” for the night was ushering me out the door to Seven for All Mankind for some wine and music.After that it was time to head in the opposite direction of Spring Street, which was closeed for the Kardashian’s and Pauly D’s party at Dash, which my friends said was INSANE with everybody trying to just snap a picture of one of the self-made celebrities.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My friends and I headed to NARS to chat with Francisco NARS and play with the make up, though the heat was not the best situation. Afterwards was a quick stop in the meat packing district, hitting a dance party at Tracey Reese, gawking at the lines at DVF, and then heading to the Ace Hotel for Opening Ceremony’s carnival, and the Advanced Style party. Sadly, by the time we made our way over to the Ace everything was shutting down and ending. I got a delicious sandwich from the endings of the carnival, and a super soft Riviera Club teddy bear, before noticing a familiar face.

Now, I mentioned I don’t get star struck easily. In fact,it’s a rare form of success that affects me; photographers. It used to happen with party photographers a lot, being my dream to be photographed by them but I’ve since met everyone of my dreams. This night, though, I spotted a bespectacled face in flannel; none other than THE Terry Richardson. Of course, my fan girl self requested a photo with him and we chatted about his work and the sandwich I was still consuming, but were cut short by other gawkers coming for their photo ops.

Dream come true! Now, I just need to figure out how to get him to photograph me…

By this point, my night was pretty much over, so I hopped in a cab home, snapping some quick outfit/cab shots just for you guys !

BCBG Dress as a top

Vintage/thrifted maxi skirt (tucked into my vintage/thrifted sea shell belt)

Bakers pumps

Forever 21 ring

TopShop clutch

NYFW Day 1, Part 3: Astonish Magazine Launch

After being at the Arrojo 10th Anniversary party for about an hour or so, it was “on to the next one” as they say. I headed to the Gansevoort Park Ave for the Astonish Magazine Launch party. There was a fashion show featuring structural designs by designer Phuong My. Nicole of BlackShoesDiary and I went backstage to mingle with the models and snap some pictures.

With J Rudy Lewis (Jewelry designer!) and fellow NYC Fashion Bloggers Shnieka and LaDorian.

The magazine is amazing. It’s a more high end/couture style, reminiscent of my favored Zink magazine, but with brighter editorials (As opposed to Zink’s always dark, gloomy, and mysterious). My favorite editorial spread was the one entitled “Love, Lust, and that Bastard Called Desire”. something about the smoke, gas masks, and underlying themes of saddist sexism just entrance me.

The whole magazine is tres avant garde and impeccably procured. I definitely advice any fashion mavens who would like some stimulation unlike the normal Conde Nast and Hearst cookie cutter to pick this up!

NYFW Day 1, Part 2: Arrojo 10th Anniversary Party

During Joe Zee’s keynote speech at the IFB Conference, I made a dash for the bathroom to quickly change into a more suitable party ensemble for the rest of the night. The first stop was the 10th Anniversary party for Arrojo salons.

Walking in I notice Tatum, the lovely (and might I add, attractive) man who cut my hair at the last Arrojo event I attended was spinning as the DJ as the place swarmed with fashionable and awesomely tressed guests. I ran into Kimberly of Can I get a What What again, as well as seeing Keiko, and many of my NYC Fashion Blogger friends.As previously stated, my tousled locks stayed all night, thanks to KMS California.

Nick Arrojo VJ’d for a bit, talking about his fond memories of the beginnings of his now famed company. He spun a few oldies hits, then came to dance with us ladies, and “backing dat azz up” with Ashley and taking goofy pictures with all of us.

For this portion of my day I wore a gifted dress from Francesca’s Collection, along with my moto boots. I had originally planned to wear my Lady GaGa second skin platforms, but I hadn’t had enough to drink and was in too much pain to wear them for hours.

Stay tuned for part three of NYFW Day 1, and then FNO!

NYFW Day 1, Part 1: IFB Conference

Yes, my first day of NYFW is being broken into separate posts. It was a 20 hour day, beginning bright and early by waking up at 5am to get ready and be at Milk Studios for 7am to volunteer for the Independant Fashion Bloggers Conference. I’d attended last year as a guest and was excited to be a part of the behind the scenes this year.
I arrive, immediately followed by fellow friend’s and NYC Fashion Bloggers Yanil, Monroe, Tessa, and Ashley. There isn’t much for us to do at first so we mingle and chug down our coffees,as we chat about the biggest thing in the room.

That “biggest thing in the room” is Marina, the living doll who texts’ as the woman for Missoni for Target. She’s all over NYFW and totally stylish!

By 8am it’s time to start preparing check in for the arriving guests and as soon as I get the chance I have KMS California do a quick number on my hair. My sweet hairdresser was a tattooed dude in a plaid shirt and yellow bow tie, so obviously we bonded as he put some soft waves into my hair that eventually proved solid as they lasted into the night.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As the room starting filling up with bloggers, old and new and from all parts of the world, I began seeing old friend’s as well as making new ones. People LOVED my DIY studded jeans! They proved to be a great conversation starter with said new acquaintances. I was also wearing my Jessica Simpson boots, which I now pretty much live in, along with a wet seal tank an Champion sports bra. I also carried my life’s supply in a matching gifted satchel from Francesca’s Collection, which can be found here.

The panels for the conference were alright, in my opinion. I felt the topics were very geared to newer bloggers (reiterating the importance of Twitter and other social media outlets to gain traffic, being yourself, approaching brands) though I can’t say I didn’t learn anything new and worthwhile.
Personally, I especially loved the panel about balancing business and blogging. As many of my followers know, I’m a jack of all trades here in the fashion industry. It was brought up to keep your professional life outside of blogging from being represented too prominently in your blog, even if you work in fashion. I also was inspired by Coco Rocha’s stance on being a good person and role model to help brand herself as an individual.
In the last panel, topicked around the evolution of fashion media, a major point that kept arising was the importance of staying true to yourself as a person more than as a brand. As is human nature, people change and style’s may mature or alter. Mary HK Choi, of MTV Style, noted that that’s okay to represent in your blog, as it is yours. I associated with this point because, readers as you know, I’m a woman of constant change and versatility. One day I’ll be in a floral dress looking wholesome, the next I’m back in my combat boots. I hope you guys enjoy my versatility and ever changing self (and hair).

I was honored to get the opportunity to interview the speakers from this panel for the IFB website. Ari Seth Cohen, though baffled by the questions and being put on the spot, was a wonderful speaker with great experience and words of wisdom to share. My favorite person to interview was Mr Mickey, editor of PaperMag. As a Williamsburg resident I’ve been familiar with the “hipster” popular magazine and all it stands for, but Mickey is a better representation of what the magazine stands for; fierce, fun, outspokenness, and being fearless. I loved that his favorite part about the convention was the diversity, a favorite factor of my own. You meet so many diverse people from, in his own words, “people of color, people with tattoos, and girls with blue hair!”

Moving onto my next point; apparently my spontaneous hair change was spot on with a current trend, or maybe just a coincidence. Nubia of IFB had dip dyed tresses, Hannah of The Fashion Hash had one side/streak of dipped blue, and Kimberly of Can I Get a What What had teal and purple mixed in with her blonde and black layered look. Now, I don’t know about you, but I think we’re onto something here!

Well, this concludes my IFB post. Stay tuned and follow for part 2 and 3 of my NYFW Day 1!