Teva's: A Comeback Story

In these past few months, amidst the tumultuous transition from high school to college, I find myself frequently reminiscing. This newfound nostalgia has greatly inspired my wardrobe, evident in my recent purchase of clear, sparkly jelly sandals. My love for them at five has been renewed at age eighteen. 

While making my daily rounds on other blogs, I shocked myself by adding yet another item from my childhood to my shopping list: Teva's. Those sporty, velcro-wrapped sandals were ideal for every, and I mean every, outdoor activity. Waterproof, lightweight, and protective, Teva's embodied "kid tested, mother approved". At some point in my middle school quest to be cool, Teva sandals didn't quite make the cut, and were, sadly, thrown in a bag destined for Goodwill. After watching the brand's S14 VideoLookBook, I regret my actions as a prepubescent. 

I am now on the hunt for a new pair, which I plan on rocking throughout my Summer adventures. This future purchase will give me an excuse for multiple pedicures, because socks and sandals will never be acceptable. 

#worldsmosttalkedaboutcouple: Kim, Kanye, & Vogue

The always outspoken Kanye West and beau Kim Kardashian never fail to make headlines. After months of advocating for a cover on Vogue, West finally won his battle just in time for the April 2014 issue. Cue the eruption of the entire fashion world. 

Before even making their relationship official, everyone had an opinion on Kim Kardashian and Kanye West. They are highly controversial figures in their own right: Kim, a reality star who gained public attention early on through rather questionable means, and Kanye, a talented rapper famous for his frequent outbursts and arrogance. Fast forward a few years to the couple's engagement, birth of their child, and a risqué music video to watch those public opinions grow to either extremes. Yes, they are trending icons of all things celebrity. We have seen their faces plastered on the magazines in grocery store aisles. But, Vogue is the Holy Grail of them all. Do they really deserve to be on this cover, too? 

I am torn. 

Immediately, I echoed the cries of thousands of other Vogue die-hards, unhappy at the validation of these two into such a prestigious realm. However, I am not ready to cancel my subscription just yet. In recent months I have been incredibly impressed with Kim's fashion choices and her progression into a street-style icon. Furthermore, Kanye has always been a major force in the fashion industry, even dabbling in design for both men and women. They are edgy and unsettling, two characteristics Anna Wintour has historically been drawn to in her twenty-six years with the magazine. In a recent interview defending her decision, Wintour eloquently addresses the haters: “Part of the pleasure of editing Vogue, one that lies in a long tradition of this magazine, is being able to feature those who define the culture at any given moment, who stir things up, whose presence in the world shapes the way it looks and influences the way we see it... I think we can all agree on the fact that that role is currently being played by Kim and Kanye to a T. (Or perhaps that should be to a K?)” (GulfNews). 

I find it difficult to question any of Wintour's decisions, but this cover still does not sit well with me. 

Congratulations to Kimye for finding yet another aspect of modern media to conquer. 

Julien Macdonald Fall 2014 RTW is Absolutely Stunning

These pictures from Welsh designer Julien Macdonald's Fall 2014 Ready To Wear collection left me utterly speechless. I think my dreams of being a champion figure skater and flapper girl became a reality on the runway. 

The beading and embellishments are spectacular yet not overwhelming when paired with light fabric. As a result, both model and garment work as a collective unit. While very skin-barring, Macdonald's pieces transcend risqué notions based on their very nature; the heavy embellishments and striking designs verge on art pieces rather than garments. 

For a man who originally gained notoriety for his knit-wear in the early 2000s, his talent is multifaceted and unwavering. It is no wonder he is known as the "Welsh Donatella Versace".  

Jean Shrimpton Look-Alikes at Saint Laurent Fall 2014 RTW

As someone fervently passionate about history, music and fashion, I am a huge fan of Hedi Slimane, who has melded all three concepts into a full resurrection of acclaimed French fashion house Yves Saint Laurent. His first show last year was a modern twist on 90s Grunge, which included everything from beaded fish-nets to plaid school girl dresses. His attempt at a 90s revival was not received well by fashion critics, many of whom were appalled and baffled at his abrupt changes to the fashion house. One anonymous editor quoted by Eric Wilson in the Times even went so far to say “I feel like [Slimane] is playing a huge joke on the entire fashion industry”. 

However, the collection as a whole gained a great deal of attention in the public––even standing as the second most viewed collection on Style.com, behind Chanel. Prior to Slimane, YSL had difficulties getting into the top ten, let alone second. Furthermore, when the house’s former designer Stefano Pilari first took the reigns, the house was unable to make a “substantial profit” for six years. Slimane’s single collection, on the other hand, is selling in record numbers; so well in fact, that Bergdoff Goodman is in the process of creating separate departments for Saint Laurent. 

The shock value at the Saint Laurent Fall 2014 Ready To Wear show at Paris Fashion Week was undeniable.  As soon as the first models made way through the impressive golden archway and down the the runway, it was clear Slimane had yet another inspiration: Mods. The middle parts, bangs, leather boots, and glorious textures of velvet and sequins looked straight out of 1960s London. While a transport in time, the collection as a whole felt appropriate. Slimane's logic is clear and cohesive with his previous work: 60s Mod fashion is essentially a polished form of 90s Grunge. Courtney Love raccoon eyes transformed into Twiggy-esque crease liner and prominent bottom lashes. If one thing is for sure, Slimane has perfected menswear for women, as seen in the beautifully tailored blazers, high white colors, and flirtatious bow ties. After watching the show, I discovered my in-satiable need for fuchsia Mary Jane flats. 

Hedi Slimane has recreated YSL by breaking all the rules. His reformative ways thus far have been questionable, but effective––Saint Laurent regained its relevance and dominance in the fashion world. Some love him, others loathe him, but everyone can agree, Hedi Slimane isn’t going anywhere.  

See clips from the show here!

Oscars 2014 Recap

Hysterical Ellen antics, Brad Pitt adorably eating pizza, the world's most powerful selfie, and yet another Jennifer Lawrence trip made this year's Oscars one for the books. An award show of this status showcased equally unforgettable fashion.

Lupita Nyong'o undeniably stole the show with both her inspiring acceptance speech and breathtaking blue Prada princess dress. The dress was really a dream, and Lupita wore it with tremendous grace. It's been proven that the thirty-one year old actress can easily wear every color under the rainbow, and I am eager to see her progress as a true fashion icon. Hopefully, next time she will nix the sparkly headband.

My other favorite was the always stunning Sandra Bullock, who sported a midnight blue gown designed personally by Sarah Burton, creative director for Alexander McQueen. Every aspect of this dress, from the sumptuous satin to the beautiful Grecian-inspired draping and sweet-heart neckline, was absolute perfection. What really made this gown a knockout, however, was how well it fit Bullock; she wore it with elegance. I found it even reminiscent of Hilary Swank's navy Guy Laroche dress from the 2005 Oscars, where she took home the award for Million Dollar Baby. Although Bullock lost the Oscar to Cate Blanchett, her red carpet moment will surely be a memorable one.

In terms of menswear, I was originally unsure about the white jackets donned by Jared Leto (Saint Laurent), Matthew McConaughey (Dolce & Gabbana), and Ryan Seacrest (Burberry). At first they looked like the classy waiters hired to serve the other stars fine wines and hors d'oeuvres. However, for whatever reason as the night went on, the white jackets grew on me. Leto looked especially sensational with the charming red bow tie and black trimmed tuxedo pants. As host Ellen DeGeneres said "I'm not going to say who looks the most beautiful. But it's clear. It's Jared Leto". I have to agree.