Moody Vintage: February 2011

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fashion - 10:50 PM

New Navy

N o, it's not a new store or an upgrade of Old Navy . This one is for the gentlemen. I was browsing on the net as usual to one of my fav...

I know it's been quite some time since my last post. I have been removed from my normal schedule for far too long so it's time to get back to business.

Many people may wonder why there are over-the-top flamboyant shows being put up on the runways by these famous designers. It's really not for the general public; in fact, even the fashion elite will find it outlandish. When we, the general public, see these runway shows, we think to ourselves, "What the hell is that supposed to be?" Ladies and gentlemen, what you see on the runways are only for show. It is the opportunity for the designer to express their artistic emotions. It's the same as viewing a painting mounted on a wall and thinking that our 5 year old niece or nephew can paint something like that. What makes no sense to us, makes perfect sense to someone who has created the piece of art.
There are, however, a point to all these runway shows. The obvious, to show the rest of the world the new line in the given season. For those who haven't picked up on it, there are certain things to look out for when you watch a runway show. Here are some very important things to watch out for next time you decide to attend or watch a fashion show.

Identify the themes - Keeping the season in mind, look out for the theme first to recognize right away if you will love it or hate it. If you tend to see the models wearing a fisherman's hat, you will soon realize it is obviously a theme related to the Spring, the beach perhaps, etc.
Identify colors and patters - Look for each article of clothing that compliments everything else on the model. Remember, it's obvious that you aren't to wear exactly what the models are wearing and how they are wearing it. Sway away from that and look towards the color scheme. Check to see which pattern goes best with a certain color.
Identify cuts - I'm talking about the "trends" that are seen in jeans and pants and so on. You want to be sure that the next time you head of to the store you are getting the right cut jeans that is "in" for the season. Spring time is not about the skinny jeans, the silhouette has lightened up a little bit. Instead, just go with the straight cut.
Things that don't work - Ladies and gentlemen, there will be certain fashion "trends" that simply will not work! Just because they are showing it off on the runway and the magazines are going wild for it, does not mean it is acceptable. For example, designers were producing sweat pants last year and it was the hottest thing on the runway. But ask yourself this, do you really want to cough up $300 for sweat pants? Get real. Stick with your sports brands.
Save your money - It is important to know that whatever you see on the runway will obviously not make it into your wardrobe unless you are ready to fork over your entire paycheck. The importance for these fashion shows is that the rest of the industry, labels that reach the masses, will follow the new trends. This means you do not have to buy the same article of clothing on the runways. That beautiful shirt you saw a model was wearing will be (soon enough) in stores by other brands in a similar design or style. Be smart about these things. It is a fashion "show" after all.

These are the particulars you should look for when watching a fashion show. It's basic and simple, and yes, it does have a point. They aren't just wild and crazy ideas for designers to meet their fancy.

"This is a designer’s biggest window each season to tell a story, send a message to the press and the public. Many designers (I hope, at least) don't intend their clothes to be worn exactly as they are shown on the runway." - Simon Spurr (designer) Askmen.com

fashion - 3:48 PM

Watch the Runway

I know it's been quite some time since my last post. I have been removed from my normal schedule for far too long so it's time to g...

From the Spring 2011 Dolce & Gabbana http://farm6.static.flickr.com

Colorful. Light. Fun. This is how your Spring wardrobe should look like. This goes for both men and women. As much as I love Fall/Winter, I realize (just like everyone else) how much I've missed the sun.
I'm a SoCal boy so I need the sun to be content. It'll be a welcoming sight for the sun to come back even though it was a very short yet harsh winter. I still love the semi-formal/formal wear but it's always nice when you don't have to dish out too much effort in looking casual and enjoying the sun while the beautiful scented flowers head to full bloom. In some places, like where I am now or even California, the temperature has risen. This is the transitional period and the last month of winter. February has always been my favorite for so many reasons, minus Valentines Day - I simply detest it. There are so many birthdays (including mine) and let's not forget the Academy Awards! And for my American friends, Super Bowl anyone? This is a very festive month and I'm looking forward to it as February is under way. For my Asian friends, don't forget the biggest world tour Janet Jackson has ever had will kick-start it in Southeast Asia (with six shows in California in April - 44 shows in total).
All of these tablets selling off the shelves. Samsung Galaxy vs. iPad vs. BlackBerry Play and so on. I've lost my mind with all that technology. Well, thank God my field is fashion and not strictly technology; I'll stick to my cell phone, thanks. If you don't already know, I'm a suit guy. Any chance I get, I will pounce on the opportunity if it means I'll have to wear a suit. Here are a few pointers for the ladies and gentlemen.

MEN - Linen baby! If you have't seen my Spring Tease post, head for it now! The white linen suits has always been one of my favorites when it comes to Spring. Which ever light or dark colored linen jackets and slacks you can find, get on it and add it to your wardrobe.
WOMEN - Ladies, I know Spring is all about color but that shouldn't restrict you from wearing the classic black and white. Just make sure there is more white than black on the dress like Richard Nicoll's cotton canvas tulle dress on the right.
MEN - Vintage will never go away. There are some pretty nice shades in the spring in all different colors. The vintage 80s (and earlier) shaped sunglasses are going to be on the racks. I'm not a shades man myself but that doesn't mean I'm against it. Protect those eyes while looking stylish.
WOMEN - Time to change that hair! What's in right now, especially right from the runway, are the messy wavy hair/messy natural wave. For those who aren't naturally wavy, the woven locks are also in; that's if you have the appropriate lengthy hair. Another hairdo to rock is the low knotted buns and or low ponytails. Finally, rock the headbands. The narrow plain black headband will do just fine to wrap those messy updos.
MEN - Gentlemen, we love shoes as much as women do...OK maybe not as much but we still love a fine leather stitching around our feet. That's all great when we suit up or try to add the extra effort but Spring is about relaxing right? The casual designers shoes out there right now still have that sophisticated production but can still provide that sports/leisure image. Nike and Adidas are fine but let's get real. Those are sports brands, they are about performance not comfort or pure style. Let's try to stay away from the sports brands this season and dip your toes in something with more comfort and fashionably aware.
WOMEN - Mix around those prints, colors, and patterns the right way. The polka dots and the cargo shorts are a perfect combo, for example. Accessories are a must this Spring, do it the right way and show the world you aren't always about business. Work hard and play hard!

As the last month of winter is underway, it is also the shortest month of the year. One day may not be that big of a deal but with so much fun in store this month and the transition into Spring, this month will fly by real fast. Remember to keep it stylish while you fly by and tell the sun that winter said, "Bye."

fashion - 7:50 PM

Spring Forward

From the Spring 2011 Dolce & Gabbana http://farm6.static.flickr.com C olorful. Light. Fun. This is how your Spring wardrobe should l...

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