FIEND: Your Daily Fashion Fix

Seth Leeper : Blog Writer and Article Writer

2011-08-12T06:05:00.001-07:00

Seth Leeper : Blog Writer and Article Writer

FIENDTUESDAY: ANNE HATHAWAY

2011-04-14T23:43:00.000-07:00

CARRIED AWAY BY HATHAWAY

She's the girl you could have nerded out with in high school. Read more here:http://www.andmagazine.com/content/and_4546.php

PHOTO CREDIT: http://2threads.com.

FIENDMONDAY: ELIZABETH TAYLOR

2011-03-27T10:31:00.000-07:00

ICONIC ACTRESS

TRAVERSING FILMS LESS SEEN

READ IT ON AND MAGAZINE:http://www.andmagazine.com/content/elizabeth_taylor.php

NEW LOOK GOES NEW AGE

2011-01-11T11:19:00.001-08:00

NEW AND MAGAZINE EDITORIAL

NEW LOOK GOES NEW AGE:

FASHIONS FINDS INSPIRATION IN THE STARS

READ:http://www.andmagazine.com/content/and_4303.php

FIENDTUESDAY: CALIFORNIA COOL

2011-01-11T10:57:00.000-08:00

NEW AND MAGAZINE UPDATE

CALIFORNIA COOL:

OUR SARTORIAL OBSESSION WITH THE GOLDEN STATE

FOLLOW THIS LINK: http://www.andmagazine.com/content/and_4247.php

FIENDMONDAY: JUMPSUITS

2011-01-04T23:35:00.001-08:00

JUMPSUITS MAKE A COMEBACK

It’s been at least a couple seasons since fashion magazines were waxing ecstatic about jumpsuits, but for Spring 2011 they’re back again, and it seems almost every other designer has sent out at least one. The ubiquity of jumpsuits for the season can be seen everywhere from the runways of Louis Vuitton, L’wren Scott, Gucci, Paul & Joe, Celine, and perhaps unsurprisingly, Halston.

What’s interesting about the jumpsuit is that although it has utilitarian roots, (women wore them in World War I factories, they are a staple for mechanics and pilots), they haven’t really caught on as an everyday essential, despite the fashion industry’s best efforts. Perhaps it is lack of perceived versatility, or it seems too futuristic to be worn with any seriousness, but the jumpsuit can be a hot item if worn with the right accessories and proper heaps of confidence.

Halston and L’Wren Scott sent out jumpsuits in black that could lend themselves to casual or slightly dressy occasions, while at Gucci Frida Giannini sent out stunning bronze metallic looks that are perfect for evening.

Phoebe Philo went sleek and casual with a denim jumpsuit while Paul & Joe went bright with an orange sherbet flared-legged number that evokes the 70s romper heydays. Marc Jacobs also played up color and print with a colored blocked jumpsuit in a smoky palette of purple, yellow, and red.

A helpful trick for taking a one piece from day to evening is to switch the shoe from a sandal to a pair heels or ankle boot. Dress it down with a cardigan or up with a blazer. Jumpsuits also pair nicely with wedges, another trend that reared its head this past Spring.

To those who think donning a romper may be too risky, I say: embrace the fear.

PHOTO CREDITS: Celine, Gucci, and Paul & Joe from style.com.

FIENDFRIDAY: VIVA LA TAYLOR

2010-10-27T23:26:00.001-07:00

BUTTERFIELD 8

I apologize for the long gap in posts. I've been busy balancing several different interests. I've been writing for AND Magazine as a fashion columnist for the past few months and thought I'd share the latest entry with FIEND followers. It's about the anniversary of Butterfield 8 turning fifty in November. It's an iconic movie for many reasons, which you can read by following this link. I've included a preview to give you a taste.

NO SALE: BUTTERFIELD 8 TURNS 50 WITH STYLE

By Seth Leeper

November 4th marks the 50th anniversary of Butterfield 8, a notorious film in Elizabeth Taylor’s career. It was the film she didn’t want to make, but won her first Oscar. It was the film she agreed to do in order to do Cleopatra. It occupies a transitional place in her filmography and public image. Newly married to Eddie Fisher, fresh off a scandalous publicity blitz because of it, (think of the Brad Pitt/Jennifer Aniston/Angelina Jolie debacle and go back four or five decades), and in the midst of a three-film streak of Oscar nominated roles. She was still arguably the most famous woman in the world at this time, having already occupied countless magazine covers, and was waiting to film the movie she may have thought would make her career...[to read the rest, click here.]

FIENDTHURSDAY: ROCKER CHIC GOES GLAM

2010-06-28T17:45:00.000-07:00

GLAMAZONIA 2010

The 80s over-studded, leather-covered aesthetic of the rocker trend we've seen in recent seasons has shifted in favor of a 70s Glam Rock approach for Fall 2010. Signatures of the trend are top hats, vintage blazers, exotic scarves, and sheer metallics in brooding hue tones.

PHOTO CREDITS: Alice and Olivia, Alexander McQueen, Balmain, and John Galliano from style.com.

FIENDWEDNESDAY: RETRO ICON

2010-02-22T11:42:00.000-08:00

LINDA RONSTADT

In the 70s Linda Ronstadt was the premier rock chick of her time: a big voice, sex symbol, and fashion icon. Ronstadt always had a reluctant relationship with fame, but her sonic and sartorial influences have transcended fads.

Now that spring is nearing an end and summer is starting to bloom, the sudden navigational change in fashion can be seen in full force. Gone are the 80s power looks and in are the 70s subdued, laid back, billowy silhouettes. We can already see the lasting effects of this in the wide leg pants coming in for fall.

Ronstadt's signatures in the 70s included wide leg pants, bell sleeves, baby doll silhouettes, tiered and maxi dresses.
PHOTO CREDITS: Halston, Isabel Marant, and Vivienne Tam from style.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: EAST OF FASHION

2010-01-21T22:06:00.000-08:00

ROMANCING THE EAST

Monique Lhuillier's Fall 2010 borrows heavily from Eastern inspiration. Strengths of the collection were cocktail dresses, evening gowns, and jackets. Behold: dress highlights from the show.

PHOTO CREDITS: Monique Lhuillier from style.com.

FIENDMONDAY: ACCESSORIES

2010-01-19T02:35:00.000-08:00

BACK ON THE CHAINGANG

In the meantime, chains are popping up everywhere on accessories from bags to shoes. Lanvin, Derek Lam, and Roberto Cavalli remind us all that glitters is gold.

PHOTO CREDITS: Lanvin (center), Derek Lam (left), and Roberto Cavalli (right) from style.com.

FIENDFRIDAY: ACCESSORIES

2010-01-19T02:18:00.000-08:00

CHAINMAIL

While we're saying hello the 70s, we've yet to completely bid adieu to the silver-studded 80s. This time around we bypass plaid and punk and go back to the ultra basic era: The Middle Ages. Medieval chainmail-inspired pieces update the harder-edged 80s party trend that Marc Jacobs has since eschewed shortly after he embraced it. Meanwhile, Balmain seems content to see the trend through to its final crusade.
PHOTO CREDITS: Mawi (top), Eddie Borgo (left), Erickson Beamon (bottom), and Janis by Janis Savitt (right) from style.com.

FIENDTHURSDAY: COMFORT AND JOY III

2010-01-19T02:02:00.000-08:00

RETURN OF THE WEDGE, PART III

Wedges ready for the tea garden. Pinkies up!

PHOTO CREDITS: Roger Vivier (top), Tabitha Simmons (left), and Viktor and Rolf (bottom) from style.com.

FIENDWEDNESDAY: COMFORT AND JOY II

2010-01-19T01:42:00.000-08:00

RETURN OF THE WEDGE, PART II

For those who prefer the more demure variety, behold the neutral wedges.

PHOTO CREDITS: Bottega Veneta (top), Salvatore Ferragamo (left), Donna Karan (bottom), and Camilla Skovgaard from style.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: COMFORT AND JOY

2010-01-18T23:42:00.000-08:00

RETURN OF THE WEDGE, PT. I

Rejoice, comfort-lovers. Those who scorn the sky-high platforms of the past few seasons will be pleased to know that the new emphasis on utilitarian styles has ushered in the return of the wedge. Behold the tall, bold, foot-loving wedge!

PHOTO CREDITS: Pierre Hardy (top), Christian Dior (left), Givenchy (center), and Ralph Lauren (right) from style.com.

FIENDMONDAY: NEWHOTNOW

2010-01-16T23:57:00.000-08:00

NEWHOTNOW:

MARTIN GRANT

Loose silhouettes, asymmetry, one-shoulder details, volume. Sounds like a recitation of the key trends directing fashion forward through the Spring and Fall 2010 season, but it's Martin Grant's Spring collection.

PHOTO CREDITS: Martin Grant from style.com.

FIENDFRIDAY: FASHION FLASHBACK

2010-01-08T23:31:00.000-08:00

ABBY CUNNINGHAM

With the 70s making a strong comeback this season, it seems topical to remember the roots of the trend. Perhaps the most overt of the trends is the tailoring of suits and relaxing of the hemlines. Loose, but polished silhouettes are the vogue of the moment, a la Abby Cunningham from Knots Landing (famously played by Donna Mills). Clean, relaxed lines, and a modern sophistication in both attitude and personal style are so 2010 (and Abby Cunningham, though she could be a bit catty at times, to say the least).

Looks from ADAM (by Adam Lippes), Chloe, and Yves Saint Laurent harken back to the late 70s/early 80s lackadaisical ease and update it for the modern woman.

PHOTO CREDITS: ADAM (left), Chloe (center), and Yves Saint Laurent (right) from style.com.

FIENDTHURSDAY: NEWHOTNOW

2010-01-07T23:19:00.000-08:00

NEWHOTNOW:
Elise Overland

Elise Overland's debut runway collection serves as a bridge between seasons. Overland, who made her name designing for rockers, juxtaposes the haughty toughness of her leather creations with softer nude hues.

The result is a striking aesthetic of demure coquetry that is right on trend with the utilitarian vibe of the Spring 2010 season, while staying rooted in the 80's party-scene appeal of past seasons. The 80's haven't completely left us. Fall 2010 will see a revisitation of certain 80's staples, but the trick is to know when and how much is just right.

Overland's runway debut is a brilliant segue between the two sensibilities.

PHOTO CREDITS: Elise Overland from style.com.

FIENDWEDNESDAY: DENIM DAYS

2010-01-07T00:14:00.000-08:00

RAGS TO RICHES

Denim is back. It's spread from the legs to the full body like a cancer. The textile has been put to utilitarian use in ensembles that capitalize on the casual ease of the fabric. Moschino managed to mine an elegance out of the material in dressy looks from skirt to dress looks.

Head to toe denim looks are tricky and hard to pull off in everyday use. Instead of going full throttle and giving Cool Hand Luke a run for his money, try layering a denim jacket over an evening or cocktail dress. This works well with velvet, in particular.

If you don't have one already, or you threw your old one out, a denim jacket is actually a smart investment. It's a key piece you'll be able to recycle season to season.PHOTO CREDITS: Moschino [top, bottom], D&G [left], and Jean Paul Gaultier from style.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: BACK TO BASICS

2010-01-05T00:13:00.000-08:00

KHAKI IS KOOL AGAIN

Are the 90s back? Or is it the 70s? It's a moot point. What is clear is that opulence is dated, consumers are yearning for timeless pieces they can live in, and designers are delivering in turn.

Among the many trends that will be shaping fashion in the next six months are denim, menswear, and neutrals. Forget the signature colour of the season. At the end of the day, it always seems to be the same one, just one or two hues deeper or lighter. It's neutrals and accents that will serve as our palette.

Rich creams, browns, greys, and camels are the new rage, which we'll talk about in future posts.

For now, feast your eyes on the designers' updates to khaki. Khaki gets a face lift via Christoper Bailey, Phoebe Philo, and Elie Saab.

PHOTO CREDITS: Burberry Prorsum [top], Celine [left], and Elie Saab [right] from style.com.

FIENDMONDAY: FASHION EDITORIAL OUTTAKES

2010-01-03T02:17:00.000-08:00

TAKE TWO, THREE, FOUR...

In case you couldn't get enough the first time, some outtakes from the session.

Click the thumbnails for full-sized images.

PHOTOGRAPHER: Megan Bayley
MODEL: Shelby Rothwell
STYLIST: Seth Leeper

FIENDFRIDAY: FASHION EDITORIAL, PT. IV

2010-01-03T00:46:00.000-08:00

CONFESSIONS OF A FRUGAL FASHIONISTA (CONTINUED)

S)alvation Army: Find your gold in someone else's cast offs. (1500 Valenica Street)
T)arget: As if collaborations with Thakoon and Alexander McQueen are not enough to cement its fashion destination appeal, you can update your handbag and accessories collections from under one hundred dollars.
U)nderwear: Don't tell anyone, but H&M has incredible underwear for guys under twelve dollars that gives great support and lasts forever.
V)intage: Old clothes take on new value when they cycle back into fashion and you can find them for a fraction of today's price.
W)astelands: This is a wonderland of designer goods but prices can vary. Most items are under $100 and their shoe collection is consistent but this might be a one-item-per-visit store for students on a budget.
X) Generation:Trend-driven boutique where everything is under $50. (1606 Haight Street)
Y)ard Sale: If estate sales aren't your thing, find a yard sale in an affluent neighborhood and take their designer threads off their hands.
Z)ara: Spanish-based fast fashion company that sells, mens, womens, and childrens clothing. They sell a mix of original designs mixed with convincing designer knockoffs. There are two locations in SF. (250 Post Street, 845 Market Street)

Red Cap Sleeve Shirt: Vintage, $8.50, fro, Buffalo Exchange 1555 Market Street

Pencil Skirt, Express Design Studio, $4.49, from Goodwill 1700 Haight Street

Necklace, Forever 21, $9.80 from Forever 21 7 Powell Street

Shoes, Model’s Own

Total: $22.79

PHOTOGRAPHER: Megan Bayley

MODEL: Shelby Rothwell

STYLIST: Seth Leeper

FIENDTHURSDAY: FASHION EDITORIAL, PT. III

2010-01-02T00:52:00.000-08:00

CONFESSIONS OF A FRUGAL FASHIONISTA (CONTINUED)

M)NG Mango: Penelope Cruz's fashion home delivers dresses and basics for under sixty dollars with a slightly European slant. (117 Post St, 845 Market St # 2)

N)ew York Apparel: Come here to find tights and leggings in every color starting at just three dollars. (1772 Haight Street)

O)ld Navy: Occasionally you will find a cute top or dress for under $20 here, but the only acceptable reason to pass through the doors is to stock up on flip flops or underwear.

P)ink Lilly: You will find a ten dollar or less rack and a treasure trove of pieces for under one hundred dollars. Most dresses and shirts are under fifty dollars. Don't miss the leather jackets starting at $59.99, cuter than anything you will find at H&M or Forever 21.

Q)uit wearing black nail polish and lipstick. Really.

R)otation: Repetition is not a sartorial sin as long as you know how to rotate one key piece through several different outfits. For example, you can wear a crisp white shirt three times in a week: pair it with jeans one day, under a blazer and over a pencil skirt another, and with a cardigan over tweed pants. This can save you time and money.

Jacket with Bondage Straps, Marc Jacobs, $32.50, from CrossRoads 2123 Market Street

Pinstripe Shirt, Max Rave, $9.00, from Buffalo Exchange 1555 Haight Street

Jeans, Forever 21, $9.50 from Forever 21 7 Powell Street

Booties, Forever 21, $32.80 Forever 21 7 Powell Street

Total: $83.80

PHOTOGRAPHER: Megan Bayley

MODEL: Shelby Rothwell

STYLIST: Seth Leeper

FIENDWEDNESDAY: FASHION EDITORIAL, PT. II

2009-12-31T14:27:00.000-08:00

CONFESSIONS OF A FRUGAL FASHIONISTA (CONTINUED)

G)oodwill: I found a Dior sweater at a Goodwill for eight dollars a few years back. There is a lot of muck to sort through but on a good day you will be rewarded with true jems for five dollars.

H)ennes & Mauritz: Key pieces here are any trendy items you are drawn to but cannot commit a paycheck to pay for. (150 Powell Street and 865 Market Street)

I)cing: The cheap accessories are a given but I spotted some hot trendy boots for thirty-six dollars that someone should buy and write me about. (865 Market Street)

J)ust stick with the basics and splurge on accessories and shoes to create impactful looks. You can take looks a long way with the right versatility in adornments.

K)id's Section: For petite women, shopping in the children's section can be a cost effective way of finding clothes that will fit them better without alterations. Children's collections follow adult trends for half the price.

L)eggings: They haven't been a huge trend for at least four seasons, but consumers will not them go. You can recycle a sweater dress or tunic by switching out solid leggings for patterned styles.

Ruffled Dress, Fun Fun, $34.00 from X Generation 1606 Haight Street

Purple Tights, $2.75 from New York Apparel 1772 Haight Street

Booties, Forever 21, $20.80 from Forever 21 7 Powell Street

Bangles, Forever 21, $5.80 from Forever 21 7 Powell Street

Belt, Photograper’s Own

Total: $63.35

PHOTOGRAPHER: Megan Bayley

MODEL: Shelby Rothwell

STYLIST: Seth Leeper

FIENDTUESDAY: FASHION EDITORIAL, PT. I

2009-12-30T00:58:00.000-08:00

CONFESSIONS OF A FRUGAL FASIONISTA

Every true fashionista knows: when you're strapped for cash, it is not about which designer label you are wearing, but looking like you are wearing it. Of course, every true fashionista has at one time or another skipped a meal here and there to help pay for those special items with aspirational price tags.

Below you will find your secret A to Z shopping index of San Francisco's best places to satisfy your sartorial fetish with a high style quotient at a low price. Some of these places you may have heard of, while others are smaller boutiques - soon to be your new obsessions where you can find a range of fashions from Marc Jacobs jackets for $32.50 to Diane Von Furstenberg-inspired dresses for under $50.

I scoured and hunted many of these places to present you with four styled looks for $100 or less, including shoes and accessories. I dug, toiled, and fought over Missoni sweaters for eleven dollars (yes, you read that right), at Goodwill, and cried when the Dries Van Noten shoes were not my model's shoe size, but alas, I emerged triumphant with heaps of cute clothes and styling solutions report back on.

A)merican Apparel: This entry should come as no surprise. Child porn-ish advertisements and glittery leggings aside, American Apparel is a reliable source for basics. Key items to shop for here are T-shirts, cardigans, and zippy sweaters. (2174 Union Street, 1615 Haight Street, and 363 Grant Avenue)

B)uffalo Exchange: The prices have risen here in tandem with the rest of the Haight Street thrift stores, but you can still find women's shirts for under five dollars. (1555 Haight Street and 1210 Valenicia Street)

C)rossroads Trading Company: You'll have a lot of luck finding big name designers for small prices at the Irving and Market Street locations. Cross your fingers they have your sizes, too. (1901 Fillmore Street, 1519 Haight Street, 630 Irving Street, 2123 Market Street)

D)SW: The women's shoes are much more consistent than the men's collection, but you'll find rock bottom prices for name brand footwear in the basement, where the clearance is located. (111 Powell Street, 306 Westlake Village)

E)state Sale: It may seem creepy to wear a dead woman's clothes, but she can probably save you a lot of money.

F)orever 21: Key items here are booties for under thirty dollars and stacks of bangles and bracelets you can get for just seven dollars. There's also the designer-inspired pieces and leather jackets you can get for around thirty dollars. (7 Powell Street)

*Portions of this text were originally published in Xpress Magazine.

One-Shoulder Dress, Double Zero, $31.99 from Pink Lilly 1748 Haight Street

Heather Grey T-Shirt, H&M, $9.90 from H&M 150 Powell Street

Booties, Forever 21, $20.80 from Forever 21 7 Powell Street

Tights, $2.75 from New York Apparel 1772 Haight Street

Total: $65.44

PHOTOGRAPHER: Megan Bayley

MODEL: Shelby Rothwell

STYLIST: Seth Leeper

FIENDMONDAY: COMING ATTRACTIONS

2009-12-17T00:45:00.000-08:00

Stay tuned. This week I'll be unveiling a new fashion spread. Pulled from San Francisco boutiques, I styled four distinct looks for under $100 as a companion piece to a recession-friendly shopping guide I wrote, originally published in Xpress Magazine. I'll post a shot per day and portions of the article to accompany each day.

FIENDFRIDAY: THE FUTURE OF FASHION?

2009-12-15T23:40:00.000-08:00

DECADES OF INSPIRATION

As we approach the start of the decade's final year, the future of fashion is up in the air. True, there a trends that can be forecasted, since we can already see what designers are going to dress us in next Fall, but how will the 2000s be remembered and what will the 2010s look like?

The fashion cycle accelerated at a fierce pace in the 20th century that was unprecedented, thanks to the Industrial Revolution, which brought the ability to mass produce garments. Where before a single silhouette or style could be in vogue for several decades or even hundreds of years, suddenly each decade brought with it new styles and innovations that would cast out what came before.

While fashion is essentially about change and looking forward, somehow we would find ourselves looking back to take inspiration from the past into the here and now. In the 90s we abhorred the 80s, celebrated minimalism, and somehow found ourselves back in a relaxed 70s aesthetic of plaids and wide leg pants, for which I blame Old Navy.

Now that we're nearing the end of the 00s, looking back it seems the 80s has left its stamp on fashion. The decade that was once thought best forgotten by those who lived through it was ushered back in by their children: first in the guise of music, then by the appearance of the skinny jean, which bubbled over into the resurgence of Members Only-inspired jackets and studs.

It seems the past couple decades we've simply skipped the decade that came directly before and mined the one before that for inspiration. The 90s looked back on the 70s, and the 00s yearned for the 80s.

Does this mean we're poised for a 90s renaissance? Fashion editors have already seen the 70s creeping back, which, frankly, is just a step away from a free fall of 90s mania.

How do you like them apples?

PHOTO CREDIT: Alexander Wang Spring 2010 from style.com.

FIENDTHURSDAY: PRE-FALL 2010

2009-12-09T02:26:00.000-08:00

JASON WU

Though he branched out and offered suiting pieces, Wu's dresses were the highlight of his Pre-Fall 2010 collection. A triumph of draping and ruching, Wu's dresses are modern, sexy, and versatile. Take them from day to night with metallic jewelry and boots, ankle or tall.

PHOTO CREDITS: Jason Wu from style.com.

FIENDWEDNESDAY: EXAGGERATION

2009-12-05T16:57:00.000-08:00

VOLUME AND SCULPTURE

Studs may come and go and skirts will elongate and shrink, but proportion is forever. The one consistent trend you can count on is volume, sculptural techniques that give silhouettes exaggerated shapes and power shoulders. Details that exaggerate the waist, or flare in an a-line silhouette. These are the lines that speak chic, easy, and fashion forward moving through the next few seasons.

Pre-Fall 2010 is an apt indicator of this. Pictured are looks from the Pre-Fall collections. Click on thumbnails to see full-size images.
PHOTO CREDITS: Narcisco Rodriguez [top], Carolina Herrera [left], Donna Karan [bottom], and Oscar de le Renta [right] from style.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: TREND WATCH

2009-12-02T10:27:00.000-08:00

MONIQUE LHUILLIER

A look through Monique Lhuillier's Spring 2010 collection is a snapshot of the major trends of the past few seasons: bows, volume, draping, and animal prints.

PHOTO CREDITS: Monique Lhuillier from style.com.

FIENDMONDAY: FASHION 101

2009-11-28T00:20:00.000-08:00

TRAVILLA

William Travilla was a costumer designer for film, theater, and television best known for dressing Marilyn Monroe in several of her films. Perhaps his best known work can be seen in the films The Seven Year Itch, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, How To Marry A Millionaire (for which he received an Academy Award nomimation), and The Valley of the Dolls. He was also the costome designer for The Thorn Birds.

Looking at the work of Travilla in the 1950s is to see the groundwork for contemporary fashion, in particular for the Fall 2009 season, which is all about fine, delicate, and feminine details. His influence can be seen in the current collections for Marc Jacobs to Alber Elbaz for Lanvin.
PHOTO CREDITS: Top from The Glam Guide, Bottom from adorocinema.com.

FIENDFRIDAY: TAKE A BOW

2009-11-20T01:04:00.001-08:00

FASHIONISTAS (PUT A BOW ON IT)

Already a trend for Fall 2009, bows are big for Spring 2010 as accessories and details on dresses.

PHOTO CREDITS: Marc by Marc Jacobs (top), Aquilano.Rimondi (top), Anna Sui (left), Lanvin (center), and Luella (right) from style.com.

FIENDTHURSDAY: GREAT SCOTT

2009-11-20T01:02:00.000-08:00

L'WREN SCOTT SPRING 2010

There's a lot to love in L'wren Scott's Spring 2010 collection, not the least of which are her myriad dresses, but tonight I want to applaud her menswear-inspired looks, her mix and match suits.

Both slick and frilly, Scott's pant looks incoportate just enough ruffle to compliment the sleek silhouettes. Equal parts Mad Hatter and Prince, , these looks show what could happen if women discarded their dresses and walked the streets as dandies.

PHOTO CREDITS: L'wren Scott from style.com.

FIENDWEDNESDAY: SERPENT'S TALE

2009-11-19T18:15:00.000-08:00

MARCHESA

I don't usually write about what celebrities are wearing but Marchesa has been something of a red carpet darling this year, which gives me license to write about Georgina Chapman, Keren Craig, (the company's founders and creative minds), and Marchesa's Spring 2010 collection. Olivia Wilde, Heidi Klum, and Sandra Oh wore Marchesa gowns to the Emmy's this year.

Before its debut collection in Spring 2007, the Marchesa name was building hype off the backs of the big name actresses and starlets who donned the brand's creations at major events. Since then, Chapman has turned into a fashion A-lister and editorial favorite, being interviewed and featured in Elle and Vogue articles.

The house was named after the legendary European satorial icon Marchesa Luisa Casati, notorious for her colorful behavior as much as her style. She wore serpents as accessories. Fierce, no?

Pictured are looks from the Spring 2010 Marchesa collection. Click on the thumbnails to view larger images.
PHOTO CREDITS: Marchesa from style.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: PRAIRIE CHIC

2009-11-19T01:21:00.000-08:00

HOME ON THE RANGE

Perhaps the economy has ushered in an underbelly culture of rustic aesthetics and down home sensibilities. Maybe society's sick of looking at hard-edged street fashions. And maybe the young "it" girls have moved from their mothers' to their grandmothers' closets. Whatever the case, in the wake of 80s-inspired extravagance designers are pushing a prairie appeal in apparel. Signatures of the trend are lace, floral patterns from your grandmother's curtains, and square neck collars.

PHOTO CREDITS: Chanel (top), Alabama Chanin (right), Gary Graham (center), and Altuzarra(left) from style.com.

FIENDMONDAY: TREND WATCH

2009-11-18T00:00:00.000-08:00

A ROMP IN THE RACKS

Call it a jumpsuit, a romper, or a one-piece just don't call it comeback because the romper never left. Checking in on this trend that jumped its way back into the fashion zeitgeist in Fall 2008 and continued into the Spring and Fall 2009 seasons, it looks like the jumper has arrived to romp another day.

PHOTO CREDITS: Roland Mouret (top), Alberta Ferretti (left), Hermes (center), and Chloe (right) from style.com.

FIENDFRIDAY: DEREK LAM S2010

2009-11-16T09:42:00.000-08:00

STARS, STRIPES, AND PRINTS OH MY!

A first look at Derek Lam's Spring 2010 collection doesn't lend itself to a united vision, but a second look reveals a large body comprised of several small collections with impeccable details and subtle links between looks in the uses of stripes, stars, and floral prints. While it may not be a blatant marriage of cohesion, Lam nonetheless presents a luminous collection of hits.

PHOTO CREDITS: Derek La m from style.com.

FIENDTHURSDAY: THE MODERN DIVIDE

2009-10-13T23:27:00.000-07:00

CLASSIC NEUTRALS

In response to the opulence and flashy 80s-inspired looks that have been so prominent the past couple seasons, a movement of simplicity and refinement has begun to rise and will be poking its head high above the ground come Spring 2010.

Even Marc Jacobs, who cemented the 80s trend's permeation with his Fall 2009 collection, is moving in a different direction come Spring. The tension between the two aesthetic camps is symbolic of our current cultural dilemma: in the face of economic strife, do we move into a more somber, subtle place in minimalist looks or come out swinging in studded boots and (updated) shoulder pads?

Houses like Chloe, Celine, and Tod's are reliable for easy breezy minimal style with fine details. When in doubt, s0me designers have decided to straddle the middle by working within a nuetral palette of black and white, a classic combination that seems to recur season to season as a safe option with innovative potential if technique and styling are used to full effect.
PHOTO CREDITS: Marchesa (top), Marc Jacobs (bottom left), Karl Lagerfeld (bottom right), and Givenchy (center left) from style.com.

FIENDWEDNESDAY: THE WAIT IS OVER

2009-10-06T03:10:00.000-07:00

BELLE DU CELINE

Philomaniacs (or Pheobe Philo fans) were rewarded today with the first runway showing of Celine by Phoebe Philo. She did not disappoint. Philo sent out smart pieces with a slight military bent to them in a palette of functional neutrals. Here are some of the best looks. Click on thumbnails to view larger images.

PHOTO CREDITS: CELINE BY PHOEBE PHILO from style.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: SKY HIGH

2009-10-04T01:24:00.000-07:00

THE HIGH RISE DRESS

Sadly, Olivier Theyskens is no longer with Nina Ricci, but his mark on fashion lives on in the high rise dresses he presented for Ricci's Fall 2008 collection. While sleeves on dresses are getting longer for Fall 2009, come Spring next year dress hemlines will be rising, but only in the front. Alber Elbaz for Lanvin [center]], John Galliano at Christion Dior [left], Marchesa [top], and Vivienne Westwood [right] all sent out variations on the high rise dress.
PHOTO CREDITS: Marchesa, Christian Dior, Lanvin, and Vivienne Westwood from style.com.

FIENDMONDAY: GREY SKIES

2009-10-04T01:03:00.000-07:00

NEUTRAL STATEMENTS

Haider Ackerman infused his Spring 2010 collection with sudden bursts of color that were brilliantly rendered, but it's the abundance of grey that forecasts a larger, more neutral trend.
PHOTO CREDITS: Haider Ackermann from style.com.

FIENDFRIDAY: PHILO-MANIA

2009-09-29T01:18:00.000-07:00

WELCOME TO CELINE

The fashion industry is abuzz with excitement over the return of Phoebe Philo, former designer for Chloe. Since Philo returned to the fold as Creative Director of Celine, her name has been on the tongues of fashionistas and in the pages of every fashion publication one can think of. Her debut 2010 Resort collection for her new boss is a triumph and a true expression of her covetable collection that stays true to her design principles of chic ease and wearability. Pictured are some highlights to celebrate. Click on the thumbnails to view larger images.

PHOTO CREDITS: Celine by Phoebe Philo from style.com.

FIENDTHURSDAY: NEWHOTNOW

2009-09-20T22:39:00.000-07:00

NEWHOTNOW:

GARY GRAHAM

Equal parts vintage, down home, and modern, Gary Graham's Spring 2010 collection is what you would get if you married peasant sartorial sensibilities with a Manhattan aesthetic, and it works. Graham's collection blends trendy staples (hello again Boyfriend Jacket) with classic and oversized silhouettes in draped dresses and pants.

A CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Finalist, Graham's career is ten years in the making but has recently seen overnight success. He just opened a new store in Tribeca and has begun garnering celebrity clientele.

PHOTO CREDITS: Gary Graham from style.com.

FIENDTHURSDAY: NEW FEATURE

2009-09-20T09:15:00.000-07:00

NEWHOTNOW

Introducing a new feature on FIEND: YOUR DAILY FASHION FIX! NEWHOTNOW is a weekly column about what's current and hot in fashion right now. From chic and cheap goods to up and coming designers, NEWHOTNOW is how FIEND: YOUR DAILY FASHION FIX puts its stamp of approval on the world of fashion and keeps you in the know. Stay tuned for the pilot post of NEWHOTNEW, which will make its debut tonight!

PHOTO CREDIT: L'wren Scott from style.com.

FIENDWEDNESDAY: NY FASHION WEEK

2009-09-20T00:59:00.000-07:00

BEST OF DAY SEVEN

PHOTO CREDITS (Top to Bottom): Anna Sui, Tommy Hilifiger, Naeem Khan, Isaac Mizrahi, Calvin Klein, and Ralph Lauren from style.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: NY FASHION WEEK

2009-09-17T01:38:00.001-07:00

BEST OF DAY SIX

(click thumbnails to view larger images)

PHOTO CREDITS (Top to Bottom): Marc by Marc Jacobs, Malandrino, Rodarte, Badgely Mischka, Temperley London, Tibi, and Vera Wang from style.com.

FIENDMONDAY: NY FASHION WEEK

2009-09-15T22:58:00.000-07:00

BEST OF DAY FIVE

PHOTO CREDITS (Top to Bottom): Sophie Theallet, Carolina Herrera, Lutz & Patmos, Zac Posen, Devi Kroell, Tracy Reese, and Donna Karan from style.com.

FIENDFRIDAY: NY FASHION WEEK

2009-09-14T23:49:00.000-07:00

BEST OF DAY FOUR

PHOTO CREDITS (top to bottom): Derek Lam, Rebecca Taylor, Araks, Erin Fetherston, Diane Von Furstenberg, Lela Rose, and Elise Overland from style.com.

FIENDTHURSDAY: NY FASHION WEEK

2009-09-13T01:35:00.000-07:00

BEST OF DAY THREE

PHOTO CREDITS (Top to Bottom): Chado Ralph Rucci, United Bamboo, ADAM, Vivienne Tam, and Jeremy Laing from style.com.

FIENDWEDNESDAY: NY FASHION WEEK

2009-09-12T02:15:00.000-07:00

BEST OF DAY TWO

New York Fashion Week continues. Here are the highlights from day two.

PHOTO CREDITS (Top to Bottom): Gary Graham, Costello Tagliapietra, Cynthia Rowly, Ruffian, Yigal Azrouel, and Preen from style.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: NY FASHION WEEK

2009-09-10T22:55:00.000-07:00

BEST OF DAY ONE

New York Fashion Week is upon us and a string of designers new and old opened the gates with a preview of what we'll be wearing next Spring. While it's still too soon to declare trends, it's clear there's a continuation of certain looks and aesthetics carrying over from Fall into Spring.

PHOTO CREDITS (Top to Bottom): Prabal Gurung, Elie Tahari, Organic by John Patrick, BCBG Max Azria, Jen Kao, Monique Lhullier, Wayne, and L.A.M.B. from style.com.

FIENDMONDAY: THE NEW BLACK

2009-09-08T22:42:00.000-07:00

SEEING RED

Red is the quintessential statement color for Fall. Amidst the dizzying displays of feathers and animal prints, key red pieces stood above the din to create a statement of their own.

PHOTO CREDITS: Lanvin (left), Prada (right), and Donna Karan (center) from style.com.

FIENDFRIDAY: NATURAL SELECTION

2009-08-01T11:15:00.000-07:00

ANIMAL INSPIRATION

The animal kingdom was a huge reference point for designers on the Fall 2009 runways. From peacock prints to fur as accessories and finishing details on dresses and coats to animal skins and prints used on shoes, the runways were a menagerie of inspiration.

Photo Credits: Manolo Blahnik [top], Roberto Cavalli [left], and Brian Atwood [right] from style.com

FIENDTHURSDAY: CELESTIAL BOOTIES

2009-07-23T22:31:00.000-07:00

OUT OF THIS WORLD

...inspiration from the stars and sky and the extra terrestrial for the Fall 2009 season.

PHOTO CREDITS: John Galliano [left], Nina Ricci [right], and Nicholas Kirkwood [top] from style.com.

FIENDTHURSDAY: DISCO BOOTIES

2009-07-16T23:37:00.000-07:00

WE LOVE THE NIGHTLIFE

Disco never really died. It reinvented itself as New Wave, a movement which casts a heavy influence over the current fashion climate. These booties shine and shimmy in the tradition of this genre. Pierre Hardy [top], Bruno Frissoni [bottom left], and Nina Ricci [bottom right] sent out booties ready for the nightlife.

PHOTO CREDITS: Pierre Hardy, Bruno Frissoni, and Nina Ricci from style.com.

FIENDWEDNESDAY: SPORT-IE BOOTIES

2009-07-16T23:32:00.000-07:00

ATHLETIC PROWESS

Booties take a turn towards the athletic with new styles that sport rubber bases, heels, and treads. Pierre Hardy [Top, Left] and Tod's [bottom right].

PHOTO CREDITS: Pierre Hardy and Tod's from style.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: PUNK-IE BOOTIES

2009-07-16T23:02:00.000-07:00

TELL ME ABOUT IT, STUD(S).

Studs and other metallic hardwares are everywhere. These started trickling in last spring and became a bit more prominent at design houses like Balmain for the Spring 2009 season. Fall 2009 is saturated with studs on everything from ankle boots to jackets and dresses. Alexander McQueen [above] offers several variations on the theme, this one a little bit Vivienne Westwood Punk through Pirates collections. Proenza Schouler [below] sent out a flat variant for those shy of vertigo.

PHOTO CREDITS: Proenza Schouler, Alexander McQueen from style.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: GET YOUR BOOTS ON

2009-07-15T21:16:00.000-07:00

THESE BOOTIES WERE MADE FOR WEARING

WELCOME TO BOOTIE WEEK ON FIEND

THIS WEEK BOOTIES WILL PROVIDE US WITH A SNAPSHOT OF FALL 2009'S TRENDS BIG AND SMALL. (ABOVE, NINA RICCI)

FIENDMONDAY: 40s By Day

2009-07-14T00:02:00.001-07:00

40s DAY LOOKS

From night into day, these ladies don day looks with roots in the 40s. Aquilano.Rimondi allude to Betty Grable, Donna Karan channels Katherine Hepburn, Moschino offers an aviator-inspired look, and Francesco Scognamiglio gives good safari.

Aquilano e Rimondi [top center], Moschino [bottom left], Donna Karan [bottom center], Francesco Scognamiglio [bottom right].

PHOTO CREDITS: Moschino, Aquilano e Rimondi, Donna Karan, and Francesco Scognamiglio from style.com.

FIENDFRIDAY: 40'S BY NIGHT

2009-07-09T00:36:00.000-07:00

40'S NIGHT OUT

The 1940s were a huge inspiration point for the Fall 2009 season, particularly in Milan and New York. Aside from the pantsuits mentioned in a previous post, there was a heavy dose of evening looks reminiscent of red carpet and cocktail looks from the era. Whether it's a a fur jacket over a dress or a gown with a clutch, these looks were finished with a 40's flair.

Francesco Scognamiglio [top center], Bottega Veneta [bottom right], and Versace [bottom center, bottom right].

PHOTO CREDITS: Francesco Scognamiglio, Bottega Veneta, and Versace from style.com.

FIENDTHURSDAY: FALL INTO THE DRAPES

2009-07-09T00:35:00.000-07:00

DRAPED LOOKS FROM FALL 2009

Last night we looked at some draped looks from spring to carry over into next season. Tonight we look at the draped looks from the Fall runways.

Erdem [top center], Albino [bottom right], Hermes [bottom center], Haider Ackermann [bottom left].

PHOTO CREDITS: Erdem, Haider Ackerman, Hermes, and Albino from style.com.

FIENDWEDNESDAY: DRAPE ME

2009-07-08T22:18:00.000-07:00

TRANSITION YOUR DRAPES

Draping is a technique that's often used season to season, but is one of the defining trends for next season. Hold onto the draped dresses you bought this Spring. You'll be able to transition these and still be on trend. You'll also save thanks to your wise investments. Pictured are draped looks from the Spring 2009 runways you can use as inspiration.

Donna Karan [bottom left], Anne Valerie Hash [top center], Lanvin by Alber Elbaz [bottom right].

PHOTO CREDITS: Donna Karan, Lanvin by Alber Elbaz, and Anne Valerie Hash from style.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: AVIAN INSPIRATION

2009-07-01T23:43:00.000-07:00

FLIGHTS OF FANCY

Designers looked to the sky to inform their Fall collections. Fall 2008's nature and tribal trends have condensed and manifested themselves in more direct ways through the use of floral prints (as we previously discussed) and the use of bird prints and feathers on everything from dresses to shirts.

Alexander McQueen and Maison Martin Margiela made bold statements pieces. Giambattista Valli sent out a moody evening dress [bottom left], Emilio Pucci a day look [bottom right], and Pringle [top center] an entrance-making ensemble. Click the highlighted links to view pieces not pictured.

PHOTO CREDITS: Giambattista Valli, Emilio Pucci, and Pringle from style.com.

FIENDMONDAY: FALL FLORALS

2009-07-01T20:30:00.000-07:00

PREVALENT PETALS

Floral patterns were all over the Milan runways and sprouted frequently throughout the New York and Paris shows as well. This trend seems surprising due to the heavy association of floral prints with spring, but perhaps it's emblematic of the need for nature and fantasy in the world in
the midst of war, economic hardships, and intercultural conflicts.

Kenzo [top center], Burberry Prorsum [bottom left], Giorgio Armani [bottom center]. and Marc Jacobs [bottom right].

PHOTO CREDITS: Burberry Prorsum, Marc Jacobs, Giorgio Armani, and Kenzo from style.com.

FIENDFRIDAY: HOODWINKED

2009-06-26T22:08:00.000-07:00

BENEATH THE HOOD(S)

Designers' apparent new obsession with the head suggests a new interest in a womens' intellectualism. The addition of a hood to everything from jackets (expected) to dresses (surprising) shows up all over the runways from New York to Paris.

What is particularly alluring about this feature, aside from the tension found in pieces possessing a prim yet urban edge, is the message being communicated by the concealing detail. Are designers speaking to the modern woman's conflict of playing peek-a-boo with her intellect? The balancing act of being smart and sexual? Or are they alluding to the feminine wisdoms that can be lost and even concealed under a patriarchal societal structure?

Anne Boleyn anyone?

Maison Martin Margiela (top), Alexander Wang (left), Fendi (center), Sportmax right).

PHOTO CREDITS: Alexander Wang from and Sportmax from nymag.com, Maison Martin Margiela and Fendi from style.com.

FIENDTHURSDAY: RETRO INSPIRATION

2009-06-24T21:57:00.000-07:00

PANTSUITS ALA HEPBURN

It is no coincidence that the premiere classic and minimalist designers of our time are sending out modern pantsuits for women that harken back to a bygone era; an era when the very thought of a woman in pants sent shock waves through society.

Donna Karan [left], Lanvin by Alber Elbaz [center], and Ralph Lauren [right] all send out suits that, had they been produced six decades ago, would have been staples in the wardrobe of Katherine Hepburn.

PHOTO CREDITS: Katherine Hepburn found here. Lanvin from nymag.com, Donna Karan, and Ralph Lauren from style.com.

FIENDWEDNESDAY: AUTUMN ROMANCE PART II

2009-06-23T20:11:00.000-07:00

ROMANTIC CHARACTERS

Romance is the undercurrent of the Fall collections. Designers are offering pieces that are borderline costumes. These looks offer the consumer an opportunity to escape the modern crises and delightfully succumb to the fantasy of being someone else in another time.

Rodarte [bottom right], Anna Sui [bottom left], D and G [top left], and Diane Von Furstenberg [top left] all offer variations on this trend.

PHOTO CREDITS: Rodarte and D & G from style.com, Anna Sui and Diane Von Furstenberg from nymag.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: ROMANCING MISSONI

2009-06-22T23:06:00.000-07:00

THE URBAN RENAISSANCE

The eccentric yet coordinated looks from Missoni's fall collection are indicative of an overarching trend of Romance that was seen throughout the runways. The dramatic separates and layers of the collection, including the sweeping scarves and dresses with a vintage appeal, are just as street ready as they are reminiscent of Renaissance-era paupers and jesters with a dash of the Arthurian priestess.

PHOTO CREDITS: Missoni from style.com and nymag.com

FIENDMONDAY: RECO-CHIC

2009-06-17T16:32:00.000-07:00

BAG LADY CHIC

Perhaps we're taking this recession chic movement, (which I'd like to dub "Reco-Chic"), a little too literally. Maybe it's the dash of Dickensian pauperism that's coming back in vogue (more on that in a later post), but fashion is cycling towards an unassuming aesthetic that speaks volumes about how little people want to talk about money. Designers have created the Bag Lady Chic aesthetic for consumers to (literally) disappear into.

Take a page out of Charles Anaste [top left], who likes his bag lady with a Mary Poppins twist, or look to Missoni [top right] for maximum impact with ultra length and unceasing layers. John Galliano [bottom center] throws his hat into the mix with his Babooshka-eqsue rendering of the Fall 2009 trend.

Leave it to the rich to make looking poor a statement.

Bag Lady Look Signatures: Volume, Layers

PHOTO CREDITS: John Galliano, Charles Anaste, Missoni from style.com

FIENDFRIDAY: HEAD HIGH

2009-06-15T19:30:00.000-07:00

FACE FORWARD

Designers are utilizing silhouettes, details, and accessories that bring the eye up, placing a new focus on the head and face. Whether it's through the use of a simple high collar, a cowell neck, or a scarf, these looks cast a new emphasis above the shoulders. Pollini [top right], Les Copains [bottom center], John Richmond [top left]
Photo Credits: Pollini from style.com, John Richmond, Les Copains from nymag.com

FIENDTHURSDAY: POP GOES THE GENIUS

2009-06-03T22:53:00.000-07:00

PUTTING THE POP BACK INTO ART

In the wake of his death, the late Yves Saint Laurent's legacy is still seen each season. Fall 2009 reveals a trend in pop art-inspired accessories that are reminiscent of his 1966 collection, which was inspired by pop art and cubism (pictured top left). The trend found itself on everything from shoes at Dolce and Gabbana (top right) and Giorgio Armani (bottom right) to purses by Roger Vivier (bottom left).

Photo Credits: YSL from peppermintkisskiss.com, Dolce and Gabbana, Giorgio Armani, and Roger Vivier from style.com.

THE DAY IS UPON US

2009-05-14T10:28:00.000-07:00

The much-anticipated RUNWAY2009:METAMORPHOSIS fashion show is tonight. Come see 24 designers set loose on the industry! The event will take place at the Terra Gallery at 511 Harrison Street in Downtown San Francisco. Doors open at 6:30 pm and the show will commence at 7:00 pm. If you haven't already, purchase your tickets online at brownpapetickets.com. There are very few left. See you there!

FIENDWEDNESDAY: METAMORPHOSIS COMPLETE

2009-05-13T08:11:00.000-07:00

APRIL SHOWERS BRING BUDDING TALENT:

A FIEND FASHION EDITORIAL SPREAD, COMPLETE

Photographed by Antonio V.

Styling by Seth Leeper
Jewelry provided by Adorna Bella San Francisco
Click on the picture to see a larger image.

FIENDTUESDAY: METAMORPHOSIS DAY SEVEN

2009-05-12T19:12:00.000-07:00

APRIL SHOWERS BRING BUDDING TALENT:
A FIEND FASHION EDITORIAL SPREAD, CONTINUED

Photographed by Antonio V.
Styling by Seth Leeper
Jewelry provided by Adorna Bella San Francisco
Click on the pictures to see larger images.

FIENDMONDAY: METAMORPHOSIS DAY SIX

2009-05-12T02:36:00.000-07:00

APRIL SHOWERS BRING BUDDING TALENT:
A FIEND FASHION EDITORIAL SPREAD

Photographed by Antonio V.
Styling by Seth Leeper
Special thanks to Adorna Bella for providing the jewelry.
Adorna Bella, located in San Francisco, specializes in jewelry by local artists.
Click on the pictures to see the images larger.

FIENDMONDAY: METAMORPHOSIS DAY SIX

2009-05-12T00:57:00.000-07:00

METAMORPHOSIS: PHASE II

A new week brings a new phase in our countdown to the Runway2009:Metamorphosis fashion show. Today we debut the first FIEND fashion editorial spread featuring designers from San Francisco State University's fashion department. The first two shots will be posted today with the rest following within the next two days.

Photo Credit: Miu Miu from style.com

FIENDFRIDAY: METAMORPHOSIS DAY FIVE

2009-05-07T22:17:00.000-07:00

HER NATURAL GRACE
Designer Profile: Margaret Grace

Year: Graduating Senior

Collection Name: Grazia

Inspiration: Nature, Ocean Waves, Earth

Buzz Words: Eco-Friendly, Natural Textiles, Gratitude

In Her Own Words: "My main motivation is the gratitude and grace I've encountered in my life. [The collection is] a thank you to everyone who's ever supported me and to Mother Earth for all she's provided."

Favorite Designers: Vivienne Westwood, Paul Poiret

Trend Note: Margaret uses all natural textiles in this collection including raw silk, bamboo, and viscose.

Come out to the Terra Gardens to see the rest of Margaret's collection at the Runway2009:Metamorphosis fashion show on May 14th. Get your tickets now at brownpapertickets.com before they sell out!

FIENDTHURSDAY:METAMORPHOSIS DAY FOUR

2009-05-06T22:24:00.000-07:00

THOROUGHLY MOD-ERN SARAH
Designer Profile: Sarah Baker

Year: Graduating Senior

Name of Collection:
Modern Revival

Inspiration: 60s London

Buzz Words: MOD, Carefree, Vintage

In Her Own Words: "[My line is]is based on a fun and carefree lifestyle, so it can be worn day to night. It's versatile. There's lot of short hems."

Favorite Designers: Diane Von Furstenberg, Vivienne Westwood, Yves Saint Laurent (60s era)

Come out to the Terra Gardens to see the rest of Sarah's collection at the Runway2009:Metamorphosis fashion show on May 14th. Get your tickets now at brownpapertickets.com before they sell out!

FIENDWEDNESDAY: METAMORPHOSIS DAY THREE

2009-05-05T09:07:00.000-07:00

HIGH STREET WONDER
Designer Profile: Candice Soutas

Year: Graduating Senior

Name of Collection: Urban Fascination

Inspiration: The song, "Fascination Street" by The Cure, the 40's, and a walk down an urban street.

Buzz Words: Tailored, Details, Urban, 40's

In Five Years: She'd like to design for women who have a hard time finding things that fit well, or in menswear for the tailored appeal.

Favorite Designers: Gorgio Armani, Marc Jacobs

Come out to the Terra Gardens to see the rest of Candice's collection at the Runway2009:Metamorphosis fashion show on May 14th. Get your tickets now at brownpapertickets.com before they sell out!

FIENDTUESDAY:METAMORPHOSIS DAY TWO

2009-05-03T21:47:00.000-07:00

THE CLASSIC RECONSTRUCTIONIST

Designer Profile: Julia Meeks

Year: Graduating Senior

Name of Collection: Meek

Inspiration: The Albany Bulb, a landfill created after the 1989 earthquake that turned into a homeless shelter and later a hub for artists.

Buzz Words: Classic, Contrast, Asymmetrical, Balance

In Her Own Words: "I like taking contrasting things and finding a subtle balance between them. There are so many beautiful things all around us and we just don't pay attention to them. I like finding things people usually overlook and finding the beauty in them."

Favorite Designers: Bottega Veneta, Vivienne Westwood

Come out to the Terra Gardens to see the rest of Julia's collection at the Runway2009:Metamorphosis fashion show on May 14th. Get your tickets now before they sell out!

FIENDMONDAY: METAMORPHOSIS DAY ONE

2009-05-03T00:43:00.000-07:00

PRET A PORTER STREET
Designer Profile: An Jaeden Truong

Year: Graduating Senior

Name of Collection: $prinkle $unday

Inspiration: Ballerinas. Their full skirt tutus.

Buzz Words: Fun, Funky, Sassy, Street

In Her Own Words: "I wanted to do fun cocktail dresses but I also wanted to do a little bit of streetwear."

Favorite Designers: Chanel, Yves Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, Rojas (streetwear brand)

Come out to the Terra Gardens to see the rest of An's collection at the Runway2009:Metamorphosis fashion show on May 14th. Get your tickets now because they'll sell out soon!

FIENDMONDAY: METAMORPHOSIS DAY ONE

2009-05-03T00:25:00.000-07:00

WELCOME TO THE LAUNCH

Today we commence with coverage of Runway2009: Metamorphosis, the annual student fashion show presented by Apparel Design and Merchandising students at San Francisco State University. Click into your favorite fashion blog (ahem...this one!) every day leading up to the show on Thursday, May 14th to see a new designer profile and catch the unveiling of a special surprise.

Photo Credit: Miu Miu from style.com.

FIENDFRIDAY: TREND WATCH

2009-04-28T21:59:00.000-07:00

STRIPES AND...STRIPES

A casual look at the people on the sidewalk will show you a lot of sour, depressed, and paranoid faces due to the current financial and swine crises that have been let loose on society. But a second look will probably blind you with stripes. A spring staple, they're all over the place this season from Michael Kors [bottom center], to Limi Feu [top left], to Narcisco Rodriguez [top right].

Photo Credits: Michael Kors, Limi Feu, and Narcisco Rodriguez from style.com.

FIEND: SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

2009-04-25T22:46:00.000-07:00

Click the image for a larger view. Don't miss out on this fabulous fashion event!

FIENDTHURSDAY: LE SMOKING 09 EDITION

2009-04-07T17:50:00.000-07:00

STILL SMOKING

For Fall 2009 the spirit of the beloved YSL is heavy, and more potent from last season, perhaps in reaction to his death last year. The industry has had time to digest his passing, and as a result, his influence is wide.

The Fall 2009 season sees this classic reinvented in updated suits and in dresses and blouses with tuxedo detailing. Dolce and Gabanna take the slim, sleek silhouette and cigarette pants and give the look bouyant shoulders. Albino uses the tuxedo detailing in collars on blouses, sack dresses, and blouse/skirt looks, while Antonio Berardi stays close to his inspiration.

Photo Credits: Dolce and Gabbana, Albino, and Antonio Berardi from style.com.

FIENDWEDNESDAY: ACCESSORIES

2009-04-06T22:40:00.000-07:00

LIKE SOME GIRLS

A peculiar, though perhaps not completely unexpected item appeared on the Fall 2009 mens runways for Comme des Garcons: the man flat. Considering the blurring of the gender lines and the adopting of androgynous styles in the last few seasons, it seems like a natural progression for the trend to drift to the feet.

Rei Kawakubo sent out a collection in a subtle color palette with a distinct eccentricity she's become known for. Dress suits were accented with sweater vests in solids and an assortment of patterns and man skirts were offered again this season, this time in more variations. Looks like Comme des Garcons, which translates to, like some boys, is evolving to look like some girls.

Photo Credits: Comme des Garcons from men.style.com.

FIENDTUESDAY: MENSWEAR

2009-03-31T21:44:00.000-07:00

BODY SUITS FOR MEN

Why bother with separates when you can have one piece? That was the question asked for Fall 2009 with a trend that bounced over from womenswear onto the boys' side.
'
Alexander McQueen offered color blocked versions of the body suit for his Spring 2009 collection, which was influential on the retail level, showing up in collections by H&M.

For the Fall 2009 season, Michael Kors [bottom right] and Calvin Klein [top center] offered office-ready suit interpretations of the trend while Diesel's Black Gold collection [mid right] offered an urban street-ready style.

Photo Credits: Michael Kors, Calvin Klein, Diesel Black Gold from men.style.com

FIENDMONDAY: TREND WATCH

2009-03-28T02:45:00.000-07:00

PEONY PINK

Not surprisingly, pink is a statement color for Spring, but what sets this season's pink apart from seasons past is that it can be used as a neutral. Pair it with creams, grays, or blacks and you've created an instantly chic and elegant color story you can dress down for day or up for evening. This season's pink is a peony pink akin to the hue that rushes to the cheeks during a first kiss. It's a nude, Romantic, and practical pink. Stella McCartney [bottom center], Giambattista Valli [top left], and Marios Schwab [top right] used it to best effect.

Photo Credits: Stella McCartney, Giambattista Valli, and Marios Schwab from style.com

FIENDFRIDAY:WILDCARD FAIR

2009-03-26T23:58:00.000-07:00

SENSUAL SHOULDERS

I previously posted about shoulders becoming a new area of focus for designers in the Spring collections. The Fall 2009 collections are proving this to be a lasting fascination with looks that emphasize the shoulders from Philip Lim [top], Bottega Veneta [bottom left], and Donna Karan [bottom right]. These looks show the only accessory you need for Fall is a good pair of shoulders.

Photo Credits: 3.1 Philip Lim, Bottega Veneta, and Donna Karan from style.com