moongjee

In the Meantime...

2007-04-02T19:08:00.000-04:00

I want to thank all my readers for continuing to support this blog, but I will be on hiatus for awhile because I am undergoing the high school to college transition, which involves a plethora of forms and technical details. I leave you with beautiful looks from the spring and fall runways.

Clockwise: Proenza Schouler, Gucci, Marni, Alexander McQueen, Chanel, Lanvin
Photos from Style.com

Glamourous Escapism

2007-03-09T20:49:00.000-05:00

What I've noticed about some of the fall collections is that there is a hyperbolic luxury to them. The lush fabrics along with a vintage nostalgia all seem to culminate in this mood of super glamour, perhaps as a response to the multitude of international crises. While issues like global warming, the war in Iraq, world hunger, and genocide are at the forefront of news media, one side of fashion has decided not to focus on the depravity and desolation. For many, it's time to escape to a better reality: one that's not so cruel.

Tim Blanks pointed the significance of the forties to Valentino's latest when models walked down the runway in hair and makeup that defined that era. Like today, the forties were a time when people needed to take their minds off the war and death. Likewise, Marc Jacobs's solidified elegance was inspired by films with a dream-like quality. Clothes were dignified and structured with silhouettes from the thirties and forties as well. "It's just a very interior sort of world where people's feet don't touch the floor and you're sort of lonely at the end of the night and you've spent all day taking care of yourself," says Jacobs. Galliano's pieces for Dior were steeped in exotic skins and materials. There was little everyday wearability, but the collection was amped up with over-the-top luxury. Red carpet ballgowns were presented as more than evening wear. The audience referred to many looks as "fantasy clothes". And while some designers may choose to face global issues head on in their subtext, others choose to romantically fabricate an entirely different world.1. Christian Dior 2. Valentino 3. Marc Jacobs
Photos from Style.com

Nicolas Ghesquière's Campus Chic

2007-03-09T20:20:00.000-05:00

It is often the runways that inspire streetwear, but in some rare cases, what is worn on the streets creeps into the imaginations of the designers. This case was evident in Ghesquière's latest collection for Balenciaga. Modern Parisian staples, such as the chunky scarf and tailored jacket combination, were extensively developed for a high fashion approach. This was accomplished with the addition of wonderful details: quirky metallic charms, kitschy accents in primary colors on the shoes, nipped waists, and fantastic multicolor patterns. According to the designer, he wanted to evoke a campus feel with the ensembles by incorporating different types of styling.

Layering was still used as a device to create dimension, but what distinguishes Balenciaga's latest technique is a more streamlined approach as opposed to bulky layers. Flashes of the brightest colors emphasized optimism for a darker, colder season. And personally, after this season's dark and vampy romanticism, I find it beautifully refreshing to have spring-like tones for the winter. Despite the specific looks seen on the catwalk, it is easy to pick out pieces that cater to individual tastes. What's so great about the entire collection is that it is eclectic in idea, but versatile enough to seamlessly work into any woman's wardrobe.Photos from Style.com

Metallic Eyeshadow For Spring 2007

2007-01-07T13:13:00.000-05:00

Match the abundant metallics on the runways with sparkly eyeshadow! I loved the gold and silver that lined the Chanel girls' eyes and the subtle glittery peach at Blumarine. The eye makeup at the shows highlighted different parts of the eye like the corners and the lower lash line. The Body Shop's Shimmer Cubes offer the right amount of shine and color. The pigments are vivid, but not too strong so one can go from day to evening easily. Also, the shadow can be applied wet or dry for varying intensity. Some of the shades can be used to create a smoky eye. For a chic compact and bold color, Chanel's Lumière D'Artifices delivers versatility. The shadows glide on smoothly despite a generous amount of shimmer. Nars' Glitter Pencil can be blended with regular shadow or applied directly around the eyes for a stronger look.

Shiny Shiny

2007-01-06T14:52:00.000-05:00

It became apparent Marc Jacobs has a knack for arts and crafts during the spring collections. Accessories for Louis Vuitton and his own line were embellished with lavish jewels, buttons, and playful objets. Not surprisingly, these two bags alone have been featured in numerous editorials and shoots.

Jacobs seems to have created collages on his handbags with mixed media, fixing miscellaneous pieces to otherwise plain canvases. For Marc Jacobs, the attention grabber was a silvery bejeweled piece. With shimmery gems and python skin, it is far from the wearable Stam bags he designed. At Louis Vuitton, multicolored disks were sewn on gilded white leather purses. Yes, they are dramatic though not entirely unwearable. I imagine these with plain white tees and some tailored shorts or fitted jeans.

Whether or not these pieces will stay for more than one season is another matter, but they will definitely become fun collectibles.

Photos from Style.com

Let It Snow?

2007-01-06T12:09:00.000-05:00

Today is January 6 and it is currently a toasty 65 degrees outside. Aside from the leftover holiday decorations, it would look like a typical day in May.The weather, so far this winter, has been abnormally warm for New England. It's been around 40 to 50 degrees in the afternoon in Boston for a month- perfect weather for my winter wardrobe that consists of woolen miniskirts, opaque tights, sharp blouses, fitted jackets, and skinny jeans. In the evenings it is usually just cold enough to throw on a wool military coat and a light scarf, but warm enough to wear skirts and pumps without freezing.

According to my local news, it will be nearly 70 degrees today, which is warmer than a day in late April. The mild and unwintry weather has led me to ponder my spring wardrobe. Still another three months of winter and I am already thinking of breezy florals, sixties baby dolls, and silvery accessories.

And while the people in Denver have been trapped by blizzards, we Bostonians have barley endured a dusting of snow. Indeed, I am tempted swap the hot chocolate for a linen shift and a glass of lemonade. I leave you with some inspiring spring looks.

1. Chanel, 2. Marni, 3. Lanvin
Photos from Style.com

I Love Coroporate Holidays

2006-12-12T23:39:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone is enjoying a fabulous holiday season! Cheers!

They all love:
-cashmere scarves from Barneys
-handmade cards
-gourmet coffee beans
-hugs and kisses

For my darlings:
-Sephora Stars Palette
-trinkets from Anthropologie
-Breakfast Lunch Tea by Rose Carrarini

For the boys:
-bright ties
-Redken Rewind 06 Pliable Styling Paste
-Kiehl's moisturizer

Goldilocks And The Three Boots

2006-11-05T15:37:00.000-05:00

Goldilocks timidly stepped into Barneys. She had eagerly awaited her purchase of autumn's coveted booties, but was unsure of which she would come to love.

First she tried on the Balenciagas...
but alas! They were quite the piece of art, though too chunky to be functional.

Next she slipped on some pointy Pradas...
yet they were much too cramped.

Goldilocks was so frustrated that she ran into Macy's to await her demise by the harassing perfume ladies. Suddenly, miracle happened! There, on the plastic shoe stands, were Marc Fisher platform booties.She put them on and they were perfect- not too chunky, not too cramped, but juuuustt right. And they saved her hundreds of dollars! Hurrah!

*Marc Fisher "Sandie" ankle boot, $119 at Macy's

Get Over Yourself, Coach

2006-10-31T19:30:00.000-05:00

I thought Coach was already bad, advertising themselves as a luxury brand when their nominal craftsmanship remained inferior to that of the real luxury goods. It was a wannabe of the handbag world. As much as Coach hoped and wished, it would never really be Gucci or Goyard; even Cole Haan is more reputatble. The tacky logos, terrible patchwork, and neontastic color schemes only appealed to the commoners of New England and the trend-whoring women in Asia. But last year, Coach showed some potential. I remember a very soft satin and rabbit fur ski bag that was quite worthy of an après-ski outing.

Unfortunately, Coach has thrown all their creativity and dignity away to give rise to this: The Signature Stripe Reversible Tote. Okay, I'll even ignore the horrendous winter patchwork and teeny-bopper makeup color palette they have going on this season, but this is unacceptable. The flap of crappy leather with gold reads... "This is a Coach bag. It was handcrafted from the finest materials. Its superior craftsmanship and attention to detail reflect our commitment to enduring quality." Are you shitting me? Is this a joke? Would any company REALLY do this? I bet Tomas Maier and Wintour would roll over laughing at this. The fact that a company like Coach would proclaim its superior craftsmanship is ridiculous. Sure $298 for a handbag today isn't too expensive, but I wouldn't wear this symbol of pompousness if someone paid me that amount. Also, the bag is reversible, which shows you how much value it really has. The team at Hermès will probably order five hundred of these babies to use as trash bags at their studio.

The sad part? I'll probably see a hundred girls at my school who will wear this proudly with Uggs. How distasteful American culture is sometimes.

SS07 Hair Trends

2006-10-28T16:36:00.000-04:00

Thick Head Bands

Burberry Prorsum and Hermès

The Return of the Hat

Clockwise: Ralph Lauren, Proenza Schouler, Marc Jacobs, Marni

Embellished Accessories

Marc Jacobs and Louis Vuitton

Center Parts

Alessandro Dell'Acqua and Chloé

Strong Chignons

Chanel and Lanvin

Photos from Style.com

Sex, Cigarettes and Old Hollywood Revamped?

2006-10-16T22:15:00.000-04:00

The latest motif in fashion and popular culture, it seems, is the nostalgia of old Hollywood. With rising stars like Dita Von Teese and Scarlett Johansson's trademark as a pinup girl, it seems people are embracing the ideology so eminent during the time of Bogart. This season's bright red lip, dark eyebrows and vampy polish are returning; is it a coincidence? And cigarettes, smoke and coke are bombarding both media and marketing. Thank You For Smoking's plot point appears to be reality as fashion re welcomes smoking and its old culture as a trend. La Femme recently posted an interesting YouTube video: Tom Ford is Missing, a clip that showcases some of fashion's most successful models playing in mansions with diamonds, illegal substances, and delicious vintage gowns all in black and white. No doubt, the clip just radiates lust and glamour. What I love most about this clip is that there is absolutely no restraint; all of the characters are living life to the fullest in spite of accepted morals. Hana thoroughly enjoys lounging with boy toys as Carine nonchalantly experiences a high. Editorials and spreads in fashion magazines all over the world are trying to recreate that same era, channeling the aura through attitude and attire. Either way, it's time for people to stop taking substance abuse so seriously so that aesthetics can overrule popular malcontent.
Photos: Dita Von Teese and Scarlett Johansson, courtesy of Flaunt magazine

Fashion Weeks' Wrap Up

2006-10-14T20:46:00.000-04:00

I know. I started out okay for NYC Fashion Week. My updates, however, maintained a steady decline. Leave it to high school to significantly decrease readership and posts. After taking a final look at what went on at New York, Paris, Milan, I can say that the general mood evoked was a very crisp, refreshing one. Of course, there are millions of ways to analyze every collection seen at fashion week, but this is solely my interpretation. The most intriguing, in my opinion, was Miu Miu's incorporation of last season's dark colors with white to create an altogether different attitude in clothing. With a simple dose of white, tweaking of folds and structure, Miu Miu managed to use a relatively simple color palette to totally transform a look. Take the leggings from last season: in contrast, Miu Miu successfully used them without evoking a covert tone. Strangely, Gucci did a one eighty turn for me. The collection was not distasteful, but rather vulgar compared to the many uplifting pieces at other shows. I am usually open minded with generalities each season and I try to reason the occasional oddball, but Gucci really felt out of sync. The clothes were not ugly, but they just didn't look right. At Milan, Burberry Prorsum made an interesting use of metallics. Yes, things were shiny, but not in an ostentatiously demanding way; the pieces were quite wearable and sophisticated. Derek Lam further perpetuated the American aesthetic with his practical mix and match outfits. Though Paris fronted a more regal look, it seemed that many collections shared the common purpose of bringing out the authenticity and integrity of the woman with sumptuous fabrics (not commonly found in the spring collections) and practical volumes.

Descending order: Derek Lam, Burberry Prorsum, Alberta Ferretti, Miu Miu.
Photos from Style.com

The Obsession

2006-10-14T20:28:00.000-04:00

Sorry and desolee to my loyal readers. Have been quite busy with menial tasks and school work.

Remember the times when we were all so worried that the Skinny Jean would make our legs look like two logs? After trying on a pair of newly cut x2's at Express design studio, I realized quickly that they actually elongate the figure. Those old boot cut jeans I had actually made me look stout (not a good thing since I am already short). Now if Express jeans could do this, I decided not to underestimate the power of The Skinny in any form. Plus, skinnies make your arse look amazing. Later I squeezed into a pair of Habituals and felt at home. Marc Jacobs once said that jeans should "fit like a glove". And yep, skinny jeans have that effect- the slim and tight effect that just oozes sex appeal. So now I own about six pairs of skinny jeans. So what if the trend is already over in England? Despite the fact that skinnies have become ubiquitous, I'm not looking forward to the infamous Boyfriend Jean. I am quite comfortable in my low rise drainpipes.

Spring 2007 Color Palette

2006-09-10T17:59:00.000-04:00

Sure, it's still early in fashion week, but color trends are already catching my eye. Everywhere I look, I see yellow. From Rachel Roy to Verrier to Ashish N Soni, pale yellows marched down the runway, ushering in a flirty and innocent mood while a bright neon yellow made an appearance at DVF and Tagliapetro. Yellow blouses, skirts, and shirts seem preferred for the hue's eye-catching and vivid quality. Could yellow be the new IT color of next season? White is still prominent on minidresses, featured with last summer's soft linens and eyelet. Black, perhaps carried over from this season, is still making a strong statement on little black dresses and structured skirts. Khakis and sky blues complemented sporty styles and light daywear. These shades seem reminiscent of the minimalist sportswear so prevalent in the 90's (a la Calvin Klein), but are updated with embellishments like lace and grosgrain.1. Verrier 2. Rachel Roy 3. Ashish N Soni

Speaking of Jonbenet...

2006-09-09T19:23:00.000-04:00

Personally, I found Mark Bouwer's spring/summer 2007 preview to be a total shock- not the good kind. After this summer's white eyelet and this fall/winter's dark, subtle sexiness, it was not too pleasant to be shocked with the neons and bright yellow light at Bouwer's show. Perhaps it was the Little Miss pageant style hair and makeup that sparked my distaste. Really, the cutouts on the bathing suit, the leopard gowns, the bright pink dresses were all too much. The collection spoke of a tacky night in Atlantic City. Something so flamboyant and colorful is too much of a contrast to this season's darker hues. This, in my opinion, is a complete and irrelevant tangent to the message and mood of evoked in recent seasons.

Rejoice!

2006-09-08T22:12:00.000-04:00

Happy Fashion Week! NYC kicked off what is to be three weeks of spring/summer 2007 fashion mania. Leave it up to fashion junkies to ponder a summery wardrobe before winter even begins. Insanity or insight? You decide. Get ready to trendcast, obsess, and analyze.

Rhythmic Fashion

2006-08-22T15:51:00.000-04:00

I awoke this morning to a surprise in my mailbox. Someone dropped off a copy of Fashion Rocks, the September supplement to WIRED magazine. On it was a demure post-it with my name on it. I dismissed the mystery of its origin, but I quickly flipped through it and found some interesting, unpretentious articles, each highlighting the symbiotic relationship between fashion and music.

Marc Jacobs discussed the concept of his new collection, explaining that the layering coincided with a Goth/Grunge revival. The fashion industry was abuzz when everyone witnessed the intense shapes, textures, and layers of the show, but the collection is simply a counterpoint to skimpy teen clothing made popular by brands like Juicy Couture and Abercrombie. Remember the long plaid dresses over long-sleeved tees paired with wrist warmers? "It was a bit of the love of the original Belgian moment- that strange, alternative Goth look but more naive, without the cerebral element. It felt charming, refreshing. The antithesis of the sleazy, tit-flapping thing that's going on out there."

Furthermore, the magazine paired designers with their musical muses. Hedi Slimane and Phoenix collaborated when Slimane photographed the band on numerous occasions during visits to the studio where they were recording their second album. "So vital is music to Slimane's work today that his atelier has been constructed with a ceiling of some 200 speakers." And his inspiration from rock shows through his looks, which mix hipster cool with refined pieces. Luella Bartley and M.I.A. were longtime friends, each motivating each other to follow dream careers. M.I.A. would give Bartley feedback on her first proto designs. Likewise, M.I.A. would create her own vividly colorful pieces. Marc Jacobs and Rufus Wainwright met in a hotel in Venice and became friends. Jacobs was so affected by Wainwright's music that he was moved to tears. "I listen to music constantly when I work. The mood and stylistic choices inspire me and are absorbed in whatever I'm working on."

Also included are curious, somewhat humorous portraits of supermodels dressed as some of the music industry's fashion designers. Alex Wek posed as Missy Elliot and Sasha daringly emulated Eminem. Julia Stegner played Jessica Simpson, complete with shopping bags, cellphone, and Starbucks coffee while Liya Kebede slouched over as a nonchalant Pharrell. Isabelli Fontana wore fur and a long black dress to imitate Jennifer Lopez's glam look and Angela Lindvall was photographed with Harajuku girls like Gwen Stefani.

I'm not done with it yet, but it's a pretty cool issue. Check it out.

Summer Essentials vol. III: Travel

2006-08-04T20:56:00.000-04:00

Luggage is not only important because it makes you look good. Quality luggage also protects your beloved attire (those delicate silks, that taffeta, some charmeuse). Louis Vuitton did not create its monogram trunks so that affluent Russian dames could fly around with the glory of snobbery, but to accommodate needs for all travelers. Traveling properly thus requires a good trunk or two to transport belongings safely and stylishly. So one shouldn't settle for that gritty Samsonite on sale. Invest in good luggage that will last.

My personal favorite is Globe-Trotter. Since 1897, this London favorite has constructed quality hand-made luggage. Little has changed since then as Globe-Trotter perpetuates its style and elegance. Made from the finest leather and vulcanized fiber-board, the trunks are functional also. Because they're made to last for decades of use, the current models produced will always look and feel timeless. Added benefits? 1.) You won't find flashy monograms or logos on these. 2.) They're not made to look like a ridiculous wad of titanium.

Goyard makes the coolest carry-ons. Take the Crosiere, for example. It's a handbag sized duffel bag made to contain everything you need for a long plane ride. Stuff in your passport, travel documents, blanket, cosmetics, mp3 player, digicam, vitamins, and water with room left over. Goyard's signature chevron fabric protects the exterior with cotton linen, and hemp with a natural coating and leather trim around the sides.

European Eyecandy

2006-07-21T21:27:00.000-04:00

Sure, I blog mostly about womenswear. But really, the boys aren't looking too bad either. Face Hunter demonstrates that streetwear for men can be both innovative and classic.

Exhibit A: Copenhagen. What's so cool about the look? Suspenders with jeans? Or perhaps it's the kitschy sunglasses? And why are Europeans so good at using cigarettes as accessories?

Exhibit B: Berlin. I will always love skinny boys in skinny pants with skinny ties. He's grungy, relaxed, and secure enough in his masculinity to wear a bag. I'll take that over any Abercrombie model.

What I Learned In 702

2006-07-19T18:05:00.000-04:00

DO...
1. blow on die at craps tables
2. hit the pools and bungalows at the Palms
3. go shopping
4. avoid the drunks in Fremont
5. sleep in
6. support Steve Wynn
7. get breakfast at 2:00 AM
8. grab a copy of 944
9. let others pay for your drinks (exception no. 2 in DO NOT)
10. stay at the Bellagio

DO NOT...
1. mess with the bouncers at PURE
2. accept drinks from middle aged men
3. forget SPF
4. skip dessert
5. go to the buffets
6. support Trump's tacky ventures
7. walk outside too often
8. underestimate the vulgarity of breast augmentation
9. forget to tip
10. buy anything from the Playboy boutique

Desolée

2006-07-19T17:20:00.000-04:00

Sorry for the lack of updates. Moongjee has been quite occupied while vacationing in Las Vegas. More blogging soon.

When Bad Fashion Happens To Good People

2006-07-01T21:19:00.000-04:00

I admit it. I wore green flip flops with a shirt dress. Yes, I was aware of what I was doing and the consequences that would follow. It happened in Jersey, a desolate and horrible place I was already reluctant to visit. I did not, however, want to ruin a new pair of Via Spigas or damage other sandals on ruddy, pot-holed pavement in Jersey. Luckily I made up for it the following evening by wearing a pair of peep toe heels in uptown Manhattan. So, does this make New Jersey flip flop safe territory, along with the beaches and the pool?

Even the most stylish person may consciously commit a terrible fashion sin. Confess and repent. What did you do?

As If Flip Flops Weren't Enough To Deal With

2006-07-01T20:55:00.000-04:00

Crocs: Those are the shoes that everybody in the fashion industry loves to hate. Unfortunately, such wisdom rarely reaches the masses. These Croc-lovers, upon realization of their hideous blunder, attempt to defend their choice.

The Preps from Hingham: claim that the Crocs match their polos - are perfect for sitting dockside at the yacht club - are colorful expressions of their contrasting personalities

The Bourgeois Mother: claims that the Crocs are perfect for household chores - are very comfortable when running after the kids - are dishwasher safe

The Rebel College Student: decides against following fashion trends. Justifies that Crocs are supremely comfortable. Claims to not give a shit about what they wear. Claims their own personality to be unique, accuses the fashion industry of a conformist society, sides with PETA etc...

Summer Essentials volume II: Wardrobe

2006-06-18T20:38:00.000-04:00

1. Show some skin - Get a classic bikini that shows just enough. Tomas Maier cuts some great suits with minimalist design and Celine adds tasteful details.

2. Get those shoes - Yep, the ones that you keep flipping through that magazine for. You don't have to stop at one pair either. Espadrilles? Okay. Flats? Absolutely. Those sandals that make you five inches taller? Go ahead. Flip Flops? Restrict to poolside and beach please. Note Moschino spectator T-straps and Gucci platforms.

3. Wear a dress with color - LWDs and LBDs are timeless, but also everywhere. Mix it up with some bright hues. What happened to the days of the flowing dresses and the cocktail wear? Love Nina Ricci for both day and night.

4. Top it off - Embellish with a pretty chain necklace (nothing too chunky) or throw on varying bracelets for some creativity. Some delicate diamonds will go nicely with that cocktail dress. That belt trend? Use it to create a different silhouette or wear it just below the chest for an empire waist. Put on some cool shades; think beachgoers in Capri. The fix: Burberry Prorsum willow patent belt and Marc Jacobs butterfly sunglasses.

5. Don't forget underpinnings - Choose appropriate undergarments to go with an outfit. Wear lingerie that is both practical and feminine. Summer doesn't require bustiers or corsets, but Victoria's Secret convertible strapless is a must. Calvin Klein makes comfortable and minimalist lingerie and La Perla provides the lace and frills.

The key is to look less rigid, but polished enough for effortless chic.

50 Cent Might Shoot Me But...

2006-06-13T22:54:00.000-04:00

The blazing heat is indeed upon us. Leave it to summer to slowly strip away the layers of clothing. Yet recently, I've observed that men, like women enjoy revealing skin. In the case for women, there is good and there is bad. For men? There is no way to win. Please, cover up.

True Story: I was innocently walking through the corridors of school the other day, minding my own business when a sudden image so offended me that I proceeded to feel a burning sensation in my retina. The reaction was instant; I immediately looked away with horror.

The infamous "A-shirt" or the more derogative "wifebeater" is to blame. These pieces are perfectly suitable as undergarments, but when worn alone, disaster is apparent. The lose-lose-lose situation is summed up:

a) Man is ripped, muscular - This belongs at something like Chippendale's. Being toned and in shape is by no means unattractive, but when proudly displayed through a white (and therefore transparent manktop), there is little appeal. There is the bit of armpit hair which protrudes out a bit from the side of the arms, bulging veins, and/or a flash of the nipples. Common accessories: piles of bling, ridiculous and generic tattoo.

b) Man looks normal - There is the bit of armpit hair which protrudes out a bit from the side of the arms and/or a flash of the nipples. Common accessories: hair, backne.

c) Man is obese - Self-explanatory. Common accessories: condiment stains, trailer.

Don't justify it because it's somewhat covered... Men shouldn't think that they can get off easily by sloppily throwing a random dress shirt over the manktop. Usually, this look is unbuttoned and the shirt is most likely not tucked in. The look achieved in this case demonstrates a lack of wardrobe prowess.

Perhaps at the beach, this look isn't quite so offensive, but high school and the streets have no mercy.