12.30.2012

visual feast


Lians Jadan, one of my absolute favorite photographers to work with, recently launched his new website, and if you're looking for some eye candy, definitely check it out. From gorgeous fashion photography (a lot of it styled by yours truly!) to the coolest Jeep campaign ever, Lians brings his distinct artistic vision to all of his work. As I was poking around the new site, I was excited to discover the video The Work shot of our StyleLine shoot from last summer. It's a delicious taste of the many visual delights on Lians' site. Check out the rest at liansjadan.com.

12.28.2012

new year's eve sparkle and shine

Fox 2 News Headlines

Looking to add some sparkle and shine to your New Year's Eve ensemble? A better question - who isn't? New Year's is the best night of the year to get glittery, and this morning I shared some of my style picks with Fox 2 Detroit. From a casual night in with your girlfriends to a full-on-formal black tie gala, we covered lots of fashionable territory. Check out the video above, and have a happy, stylish New Year!

My outfit: Rebecca Taylor tweed jacket, $650 at Neiman Marcus, Troy. J.Crew blouse, similar here. Blank Denim leather shorts, similar here. Express tights, $14.90 at Express. Alexander Wang "Tasha" boots, similar here, here and here.

12.21.2012

happy holidays, everyone!

My furbabies, Talula and Princeton

I'm sure I'm not the only one, but the lead up to the holidays has been mighty hectic. Between last minute shoots, outings with family, and scrambling to finish buying and wrapping gifts for everyone on my list, this month has flown by. It's hard to believe that Christmas is just a few days away! I'm ready for some relaxing time off to spend with my loved ones, and so excited for the new year, which is sure to bring with it exciting opportunities and lots of new adventures. Until then, have a safe and happy holiday season, everyone!!!

12.06.2012

gift guide 2012: made in michigan


Want to buy local this year? Whether you're shopping for a beauty junkie or foodie, fashionista or ski bunny, you can find something from Michigan for everyone on your list this holiday season. The gifts in this round-up are culled from some of my favorite locally owned businesses, from artisanal handmade soap maker Aromaholic to outdoor superstore Moosejaw.

1/ Maalouf Nail Polish, $9 each. 2/ Moosejaw Men's Jeremiah Bruce Zip Hoodie, $55. 3/ Sibling Michigan Holiday Card, $4. 4/ Kelly Lynne Houndstooth Wool Coat, $250, and Polka Dotted Leggings, $65. 5/ Herman Miller Eames Chair and Ottoman, $3,824. 6/ Moosejaw Women's Irene P. Waters Faux Fur Hat, $42. 7/ McClure's Bloody Mary Mix, $10. 8/ Pewabic Pottery Tile, $22. 9/ American Spoon Red Raspberry Preserves, $9. 10/ Elevated Press Mitten State of Mind Letterpress Print, $20. 11/ Aromaholic Gin and Tonic Soap, $7.

12.05.2012

gift guide 2012: for your man


This year, give the man you love special items that he'll treasure for a lifetime, from rich leather essentials and quirky cardigans to unexpected accessories and timeless timepieces.

1/ Brooks Brothers Fair Isle Hoodie, $148. 2/ Lanvin Buttonhole Flower Pin, $170. 3/ Crate & Barrel Cavett Leather Chair, $1,199. 4/ Teroforma Whiskey Stones, $20. 5/ Timex Vintage Field Army Watch, $150. 6/ Kiehl's Men's Starter Kit, $40. 7/ PLAY Comme des Garcons Cardigan, $410. 8/ Coach Bleecker Leather Backpack, $698. 9/ Paul Smith by Christys' Navy Bowler Hat, $185. 10/ Apple iPad and iPad Mini, starting at $329. 11/ Burberry "The Britain" 43mm Automatic Watch, $1,795.

12.04.2012

gift guide 2012: gifts for tiny tots


The world let out a collective "Squeee!!!" of delight on Monday when Prince William and Kate Middleton announced that they are expecting their first child. In honor of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and because baby stuff is ridiculously adorable, I've rounded up some great gift ideas for the royal babies in your life. Crown not included.

1/ Gap Favorite Intarsia Deer One-Piece, $35, and Favorite Deer Hat, $17. 2/ Jason Wu for NM + Target Lace-Trim Dress, $60. 3/ Baby Sock Monkey, $10. 4/ Oeuf Baby Monster Sweater, $84. 5/ TANE Ladybug Rattle, $38. 6/ Fournier Pirate Pillow, $58. 7/ Winter Water Factory Long-Sleeve Romper, $38. 8/ bioME5 Penguin Bodysuit, $18. 9/ Oeuf Baby Animal Hat, $48. 10/ TANE Cuddle Bear, $63.

11.29.2012

11.28.2012

gift guide 2012: ballerina dreams


I have a serious love for ballet, so it goes without saying that one of my favorite holiday traditions is watching The Nutcracker. Lucky for me, my cable subscription includes Ovation TV, which broadcasts a "Battle of the Nutcrackers" every season. This year, that means seven different Nutcracker productions to enjoy. The music, the costumes, the sets - The Nutcracker is the ballet that makes thousands of little girls (ok, and grown women) dream of becoming a ballerina. So why not give the one you love a little piece of her dreams this Christmas? From haute fashion to a gorgeous book of ballet photography, these Nutcracker-inspired gifts will bring out the ballerina in anyone.

1/ Crate and Barrel King Nutcracker, $130. 2/ Alexander McQueen Blossom Pink Circle Mini Dress, $2,560. 3/ Bloch Amelie Pointe Shoes, $64. 4/ Repetto BB Strass Swarovski Crystal Embellished Leather Ballet Flats, $600. 5/ Lululemon Skinny Satin Pirouette Headband, $12. 6/ Ballet Beautiful Workout DVDs, $11-$13. 7/ Ballet: Photographs of the New York City Ballet by Henry Leutwyler, $88. 8/ Nutcracker Nation: How an Old World Ballet Became a Christmas Tradition in the New World, $22. 9/ Xhilaration Juniors Fashion Legwarmer, $7. 10/ La Mer Collections Crystal Ballerina Charm Watch, $165. 11/ Rebecca Taylor Perfect Fit Strapless Dress, $425.

11.27.2012

gift guide 2012: tiffany blue

If you are one of the lucky few who managed to get all your holiday shopping done between Black Friday, Small Business Saturday, and Cyber Monday - congratulations! If you, like me, aren't in that first group, don't sweat. There is plenty of time left before Christmas, and over the next few weeks I'll be sharing great gift ideas for everyone on your list. And you may even find a little something for yourself along way.


I can't seem to get enough of my latest color crush. Tiffany blue, aquamarine, turquoise, robin's egg blue - whatever you want to call, it's absolutely lovely. At once elegant and cheerful, it gives a fresh pop of color to everything from kitchen appliances to cameras.

1/ KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer, $350. 2/ J.Crew Edie Purse, $238. 3/ Yves Saint Laurent Arty Gold-Plated Glass Ring, $290. 4/ Kate Spade Pixel Journal, $28. 5/ Lomography Diana F+ Camera, $99. 6/ Tory Burch Cotton Simone Cardigan, $225. 7/ Essie Nail Polish in Where's My Chauffeur, $8. 8/ Paper Source Seashell Letterpress Stationery, $10.50. 9/ Nanda Home Tocky Clock, $58. 10/ J.Crew Bubble Necklace, $120. 11/ Urbanears Plattan Headphones, $60.

11.21.2012

small business saturday is november 24!


While there are literally thousands of people gearing up for the rat race that is Black Friday, I'm making plans for Small Business Saturday. Founded in 2010 to give small businesses more exposure on one of the biggest shopping weekends of the year, Small Business Saturday brings together shoppers who want to buy local and the independent designers, boutiques and specialty shops that give a community its unique flavor. From dance wear to home wares, here's a peek at the local shops I'll be visiting this Saturday.

10.17.2012

target + neiman marcus holiday 24 lookbook


It's finally here! Well, images at least.

Yesterday Target and Neiman Marcus released the lookbook for their hotly anticipated Holiday 24 collection. A collaboration between the two retailers and 24 CFDA fashion designers, the collection includes 50 truly covetable items and some refreshing surprises. Some of the items are pretty unexpected, like the super cool Derek Lam skateboard (!!!), the adorably quirky Band of Outsiders cookie cutters, and the incredibly beautiful Altuzarra cocktail glasses, shaker and croc embossed tray. There is also a good selection of the clothing and accessories people expect from a Target designer collection, but thanks to the Neiman Marcus connection, they seem a bit more elevated. Think real leather gloves by Brian Atwood, calf hair slippers by Derek Lam, his-and-hers Thom Browne blazers, and an accordion-pleated, beaded little girl's dress by Marchesa. If you're one of the smartypants who ordered the CFDA Mystery Package from Neiman Marcus, good for you, because this collection is sure to fly off the shelves when it hits Target and Neiman Marcus stores and the web on December 1. Check out the entire collection, with prices, below and tell me your favorites in the comments!

10.10.2012

wish list: neiman marcus and target cfda mystery package deal


Neiman Marcus unveiled its Christmas Book yesterday in Dallas, and if you've ever wondered what to get the girl who has everything, you might find something among the luxury department store's fantasy gifts. How about a Heritage Hen Mini Farm, modeled after Marie Antoinette's Le Petit Trianon? Or a 2013 Neiman Marcus Edition McLaren 12C Spider sports car?

While designer chickens and high-end cars are wonderful, fashionistas probably have designer goods of another kind on their holiday wish lists. Namely, the 50 pieces that are part of Neiman Marcus's mega-collaboration with Target and 24 CFDA fashion designers. One of the fantasy gifts available this year is a Neiman Marcus and Target CFDA Mystery Package Deal. Why is it a mystery? Because orders have to be placed by October 15, the day before the collection is revealed to the public. The mystery package includes the entire collection, which has items for men, women, children, pets and home. At $3,500 dollars, it's either a super luxe gift for one lucky individual or a fantastic way to get all your holiday shopping done in one fell swoop. And who doesn't love a good mystery?

Check out all of the Neiman Marcus 2012 Fantasy Gifts, as well as the complete Christmas Book, here.

10.09.2012

the hunt: perfect parkas - 2012 edition

perfect parkas - 2012 edition

It's that time of year again. The air is crisp, the leaves are exploding with color, and morning frost has replaced the summer's morning dew. We're deep into fall, and while it's time to make your annual trip to the pumpkin patch and cider mill, it's not quite time to pull out your heavy winter jacket. Luckily, this season there are a slew of great parkas available for any budget. Whatever the price point, look for special details like fur-trimmed hoods, floral prints, or even faux leather sleeves. Check out this year's picks below:

9.17.2012

in high school i lettered in fashion

Madewell Letterman Sweater-Jacket, $158 at Madewell

There's something about fall - it always feels like the perfect time to add to my wardrobe. It's a sartorial reflex caused by years and years of back to school shopping (blank notebooks and unsharpened No. 2 pencils were just as exciting to me as the outfit I picked out for the first day of class), so you can imagine how happy I was to spend all day yesterday catching up and shopping with my friend Alison, the super fab chick behind Viva la Diva Events. Five stores and one Strawberry Basil Limonata (yum!) later, my closet has some lovely new additions. My absolute favorite acquisition, and the piece I know I will wear constantly this fall, is Madewell's Letterman Sweater-Jacket. It's just begging to be worn to a football game on a crisp autumn day, embellished with button pins and a varsity letter. See, I told you I was nostalgic about back to school shopping...

Embroidered varsity letters, $10 for 2 on Etsy.com

Vintage buttons, $12 on Etsy.com

9.05.2012

fashion's night out is tomorrow!


Fashion's Night Out - the international shopping event spearheaded by Vogue editor Anna Wintour - is tomorrow, and while we may not have the celebrities, models, and fanfare that New York has, there is plenty going on here in metro Detroit. Check out some of the evening's happenings below!

Figo Salon is offering free Kerastase treatments and blowouts, wine and light appetizers, and 20 percent off all products. 6-9 p.m. | www.figosalon.com

Start practicing your fiercest poses - Tender is giving guests the chance to let their inner model shine with an in-store fashion shoot. 7-9 p.m. | www.tenderbirmingham.com


Indulge in Blue Jeans and Red Wine at Caruso Caruso - the denim emporium will be pouring glasses of vino, serving tasty hors d'oeuvres and offering shopping discounts. 5-8 p.m. | www.carusocaruso.net

Addicted to Instagram? Stop into a BCBGMAXAZRIA store, deck yourself out in a head-to-toe look, and snap a picture. Be sure to tag your photo with one of the brand's key fall trends (see their site for more info) for a chance to win a $2,500 BCBG wardrobe. 6-9 p.m. | www.bcbg.com

Enjoy sips, sweets and a Braid Bar at Madewell, plus, guests who spend $100 or more get a free Stateside Tote. 6-8 p.m. | www.madewell.com

Saks Fifth Avenue at Somerset Collection is launching their new 10022-SHOE department and fundraising for HAVEN. 5:30-8:30 p.m. | www.haven-oakland.org

For more FNO events in Detroit and around the country, check out fashionsnightout.com.

8.15.2012

keenan kampa is a doll


If there's anything I love more than fashion - ok, as much as fashion - it's ballet. I love watching it, I love doing it, I love reading about it, I just love it. So when I had the chance to interview Keenan Kampa, the gorgeous ballerina who recently became the first American to join the famed Mariinsky ballet, I did a happy dance of my own. Keenan is in town to dance at the third annual "Stars of Russian Ballet" gala at Ann Arbor's Power Center this Saturday, and I'm going with a few of the ladies from the studio where I take class. My favorite part of the interview was at the very end. I asked Keenan what pieces she would be dancing on Saturday, and after she told me, I said I couldn't wait to see her dance them. Her voice lit up, and she said, "Oh, you're going to come? That's so great!" So sweet, so genuine. I told her I wouldn't miss it.

Read my interview with Keenan here.

8.01.2012

get the look: dressage

Zara Phillips riding High Kingdom during the Eventing dressage phase at the London 2012 Olympics

Is there a more elegant Olympic sport than dressage? Not only does it showcase beautiful horses trained and ridden at the highest level, but the riders are turned out with incredible style, from the tips of their top hats to the toes of their sleek black boots.

The riders competing in Eventing took to the arena for their dressage tests earlier this week (including Zara Phillips, above, the granddaughter of Queen Elizabeth), and the individual and team Dressage competition starts August 2. Equestrian style was also a major influence on the fall 2012 runways  (see: Gucci, Givenchy and Ralph Lauren), and with the collections making their way to store shelves, now is the perfect time to indulge in some haute horsey attire. Here's how to get the look:

7.04.2012

happy fourth of july!


Happy 4th of July, everyone! I'm celebrating our nation's birthday on the lake, but if you're stuck in the city, why not hit the town in some patriotic platforms from Jeffrey Campbell?
Jeffrey Campbell "Lita" in Stars and Stripes, $160, Karmaloop

6.29.2012

required reading: bridget foley's diary


This week, for her "Bridget Foley's Diary" column, WWD Executive Editor Bridget Foley wrote one of the most articulate, thoughtful treatises on why designers matter that I've ever read. The question of brand vs. designer has been a hot topic lately thanks to upheaval at storied houses like Dior, YSL and Jil Sander, and Foley hits the nail on the head when she writes that "the elite designers, those who drive fashion, those few who will be remembered, do more than design to the bottom line. At its best, their fashion codifies, or even instigates, something in the larger culture, often presenting alternatives to the status quo." Anyone interested in fashion should read this piece. Check it out here.

6.28.2012

cityloft is back!


It's baaaaa-aack! Somerset Collection's CityLoft pop-up shopping concept has returned to Woodward Avenue for its second summer, anchoring the rebirth of Downtown Detroit Days. I reported on CityLoft's return for Hour Detroit before I left for Stockholm (you can read my article here!), so I couldn't resist scoping it out on opening day.

6.26.2012

ciao, bella!

On the cover: 3.1 Phillip Lim top, $450, Alexis Bittar bracelet, $325, and ring, $275, and Stephen Dweck earrings, $295, Neiman Marcus, 248.643.3300. Stella McCartney pants, $525, Saks Fifth Avenue, 248.643.9000. Madewell belt, sylist’s own.

My return flight from Sweden touched down late last week, and I was greeted by a beautiful site: the latest issue of StyleLine! I had the privilege of styling the cover and accompanying fashion spread alongside an incredible team, and I'm so proud of the results. StyleLine's editor, Karen Buscemi, gave photographer Lians and I a "color burst" theme. My interpretation was inspired by film noir - what would classic black-and-white noir look like if was shot in color? Thanks to the incredible creative team, beautiful model and a limited edition Gucci Fiat 500, pretty glamorous, if you ask me! Check out the full shoot below:

6.05.2012

summer beauty obsession: ysl rouge pur couture in le orange


I recently started working with Hour Detroit, a fantastic local city magazine, as a freelance style editor. When I was working on one of my first pieces for the mag - a round up of beauty products that offer SPF protection - I discovered my new summer beauty obsession: Yves Saint Laurent Rouge Pur Couture Pure Color Lipstick in Le Orange.

I have always loved a classic red lip, but I was seriously nervous about orange lipstick. Orange is so bold and juicy - I just didn't think I could pull it off. This gorgeous shade completely changed my mind. It's bright and no question orange, but it has just enough red in it to work with my pale rose complexion. The beach-ready SPF 15 formula is so creamy and smooth that it feels more like wearing a lip balm, and the color lasts for hours.

Check out YSL's Rouge Pur Couture lipstick and more SPF beauty products in the July 2012 issue of Hour Detroit.

YSL Rouge Pur Couture, $32
www.yslbeautyus.com

6.04.2012

movement 2012 fashion recap


Every Memorial Day, the tents go up at Hart Plaza and thousands of party people descend on downtown Detroit for the annual electronic music festival. Movement, or DEMF as it's still called by those who remember the first Detroit Electronic Music Festival in 2000, has had its ups and downs, but one thing has always been consistent: epic festival style. Movement is a sartorial smorgasbord that runs the gamut from rainbow bright candy raver to so hipster it hurts - and literally everything in between. Here are some of the looks I couldn't resist snapping this year:

5.16.2012

happy birthday, ray-ban!


Ray-Ban's 75th anniversary Ambermatic Collection, $219 each, hits stores in June


This year is a milestone for Ray-Ban. The eyewear innovator, whose aviators and Wayfarers are iconic fashion staples, is celebrating its 75th birthday this year. To mark the occasion, Ray-Ban is launching the Ambermatic collection, a line of aviators inspired by the 1937 original. Available in four styles - classic aviators with or without curved arms, the shooter, and the outdoorsman - the Ambermatic shades have light-sensitive photochromic yellow lenses that darken depending on light and temperature.

"People may not realize that Ray-Ban first started out from a military request for pilot's sunglasses. This Aviator style is something that was developed long ago but that continues to be nurtured by the brand with new frame materials and lens development," Sara Beneventi, Ray-Ban brand director, told WWD. "The relationship between Ray-Ban and the Aviator is treated with reverence. The Ambermatic is a testament to that commitment to craftsmanship and technical design."

Help Ray-Ban celebrate 75 years of aviators when the Ambermatic collection hits Sunglass Hut, Henri Bendel and upscale department stores in June.

www.ray-ban.com/usa

5.09.2012

glam for good: women helping women

RGA model Yuliya, wearing Kaufmanfranco, and Mary Alice Stephenson

This past weekend I had the honor and privilege of assisting uber stylist Mary Alice Stephenson and her studio director Denise Caldwell with the Grace Centers of Hope Women Helping Women fashion show. It was truly an incredible experience, one that I will remember for the rest of my life.

5.03.2012

say hello to rosie


Last night I finally watched the movie version of one of my favorite books, Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen. It's the story of a 1930s traveling circus, a young vet, a star performer, and Rosie, the incredible elephant who brings them together despite the brutal ringmaster trying to keep them apart. I adore the book, and whenever I love a book, I always approach the film version with trepidation. Hollywood just has a way of ruining a good book, you know what I mean? Well, a full year after its theatrical release, I caught Water for Elephants the movie on HBO, and I loved it. Beautifully filmed, it brought the book to life - and watching it made my latest purchase, an elephant necklace from J.Crew, even more special. J.Crew calls it the "Lucy" pendant, but you can call her "Rosie."

Lucy Pendant, $35 at J.Crew stores

4.26.2012

what's in the bag: rachel zoe nico messenger bag

Rachel Zoe Nico Messenger Bag, $525 at Neiman Marcus - Somerset Collection.

On Monday I'm styling a fashion editorial for one of our local magazines, which means I'm spending this week sending out sample requests and pulling product from local stores and designers. It's like fantasy shopping - I get to take whatever I want, without spending a dime. But just like Cinderella when the clock strikes midnight, the dream ends after the shoot, when everything has to be returned - le sigh.

Yesterday while I was pulling at Neiman Marcus, I fell in love. A bright red, structured bag caught my eye - I literally gasped. As I ooh-ed and ah-ed in the middle of the store, I learned the beauty in my hands was the Rachel Zoe Nico Messenger Bag. I added it to the pile of goodies I was borrowing for the shoot, and when I got everything back to the home office, I decided to take Nico for a little test drive. Just how much of my stuff could this baby handle?

4.19.2012

altuzarra for j.crew

Joseph Altuzarra and a model wearing the
Altuzarra for J.Crew Sabrina Dress, $228

In celebration of his CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund win, Joseph Altuzarra has created an absolutely fantastic capsule collection for J.Crew. Available online now and at J.Crew's Fifth Avenue store in Manhattan on April 23, the seven-piece collection is a very French interpretation of some of J.Crew signature preppy pieces. Inspired by Brigette Bardot and his Parisian upbringing, Altuzarra used lots of gingham plaid and sailor stripes to create a collection that begs to be worn with a tousled beehive and winged liquid liner.

See the complete collection below, then head over to jcrew.com to shop the collection, read a q&a with the designer, and learn more about his inspiration. Oh, and you can also preview the seriously amazing collections created by CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund runners-up Pamela Love and Creatures of the Wind.

4.16.2012

the hunt: wedge sneakers

All spring long, the fashion world has been losing its collective mind over wedge sneakers. It all started with Isabel Marant, and now everyone from Marc Jacobs to Ash is getting in on the action. At first, all I could think was, "Really? Does no one else remember how tacky high-heel sneakers turned out to be? Does no one else remember those '90s disasters with the gum rubber stilettos?" (shudders violenty)


Well, I remember the ghosts of high-heeled sneakers past, so when it became clear that wedge sneakers were indeed having a major moment for spring, I started researching them with some definite trepidation. I was a sceptic - and then I saw these:

Nike x Liberty wedge sneaker

4.09.2012

drinking and dining in denver

Downtown Denver.

Who knew that Denver has such an incredibly vibrant and varied culinary scene? Definitely not me. When I visited the Mile High City to see the Yves Saint Laurent retrospective at the Denver Art Museum, I had no idea how well I would eat while there. Or how much beer I would drink. Seriously, beer is a very big deal in Denver, and I drank more beer in one week than I have in the past year. But back to the food. From brunch and bloody mary's to Buenos Aires-style pizza, the food and drink in Denver was just as incredible as the couture in the exhibit.

yves saint laurent: the winner


Congratulations to the winner of our Yves Saint Laurent giveaway, Autumn Cayleigh! The ultimate YSL beauty package, courtesy of Neiman Marcus at the Somerset Collection, is on its way to your doorstep - enjoy!!!

And thank you to everyone who participated in the giveaway. You all shared some incredible beauty tips that I can't wait to put to good use! Thank you all for reading paper + cloth!

4.03.2012

yves saint laurent: the shoes

One of the most exciting parts of a vacation - for me, anyways - is putting together the outfits that I'm bringing with me. I usually get a little carried away and pack way too many shoes, more than I could ever wear in the brief amount of time I'll be away, but my trip to Denver was different.

For Denver, I only needed to pack one pair of heels.


Generously gifted to me by Neiman Marcus (have you entered the amazing beauty giveaway they're sponsoring?), these nude leather Tribtoo pumps were the only heels I needed in Denver. The weather was warm, the sun shining, spring was in the air, and these shoes went with everything. I was so excited to honor the house of Saint Laurent throughout my stay in Denver - here's how I wore these gorgeous shoes throughout my trip:

4.02.2012

watch this: art beat tour of 'yves saint laurent: the retrospective'


Can't get enough of Yves Saint Laurent: The Retrospective? Yeah, me neither. Check out this PBS segment on the exhibit - Denver Art Museum director Christophe Heinrich and exhibit curator Florence Muller give us a tour and some incredible insight into the importance of Saint Laurent's work.

yves saint laurent: the exhibit

The iconic Mondrian dress (1965)
© Foundation Pierre Bergé-Yves Saint Laurent, Paris
Photo A. Guirkinger

If you do one thing this summer, book a flight to Denver and see Yves Saint Laurent: The Retrospective at the Denver Art Museum. The exhibit, which is having its exclusive U.S. showing in the Mile High City, documents 40 years of haute couture by one of the most influential designers of all time. For anyone who loves fashion, it's an inspiring, fascinating journey through sartorial history and an absolute must-see.

3.22.2012

the eagle has landed

Denver Art Museum

I have arrived in Denver!!! I cannot wait to check out the YSL retrospective at the Denver Art Museum!!! Posting will be a little light until I get back to Detroit next week, but in the meantime, you can keep up with my adventures in the Mile High City on Facebook, Twitter, and - for all you iPhone users - on Instagram @beccastyle. Did I mention I'm excited to be in Denver? Because I'm excited to be in Denver!!!

3.20.2012

yves saint laurent: the giveaway


Hmmmm, what could be inside? I bet you'd like to know!!!

In celebration of my trip to Denver to see the "Yves Saint Laurent: The Retrospective" exhibit at the Denver Art Museum, my good friends at Neiman Marcus at the Somerset Collection have generously sponsored an amazing giveaway for readers of paper + cloth! Let's take a look inside this gorgeous box!!!

3.19.2012

wish list: vintage yves saint laurent

There are only a few days left until I head to Denver to see the Yves Saint Laurent retrospective at the Denver Art Museum! And what better way to get in the mood than drooling over some gorgeous vintage YSL? From ebay and Etsy to physical vintage boutiques that also offer online shopping, the internet has a lot to offer when it comes to vintage YSL. Shoes, bags, ties, scarves, and of course clothing...ahhh, the clothing. There are some many great pieces out there! Here are some of my favorites from around the web:


1/ Vintage Yves Saint Laurent Peasant Skirt
From the 1976 "Rich Peasant" collection, this skirt screams summertime. The tiered floral print cotton is accented with braided cobalt trim, a tie waist, and feminine ruffle detail. Boho chic at its finest.
$698, Free People

3.16.2012

yves saint laurent: the brand


When Yves Saint Laurent the man founded his couture house in 1962, it was the start of a new fashion empire. The house's history is, according to Voguepedia, "a capsule version of the modern fashion industry - from its beginnings in couture to the eventual dominance of ready-to-wear to the rise of global conglomerates through branding and licensing. Saint Laurent not only witnessed these changes, he helped instigate them, with the assistance of [longtime partner Pierre] Berge."

Couture, pret-a-porter, cosmetics, perfumes, menswear, eyewear, shoes, handbags - it's an empire that eventually proved too much for its sensitive, turbulent founder to handle, and Saint Laurent began to retreat from the world in the late '70s.

But Yves Saint Laurent the brand has endured for 50 years, thanks in large part to the new generation of designers who have carried the torch for the revered founder. Saint Laurent oversaw couture himself until 2002, when he presented his final collection and retired. But Rive Gauche, the ready-to-wear collection and what today we think of as YSL the brand, is a different story.

3.15.2012

yves saint laurent: the man


As I mentioned yesterday, next week I head to Denver for the "Yves Saint Laurent: The Retrospective" exhibit, which is making an exclusive U.S. appearance at the Denver Art Museum. On view March 25 through July 8, the exhibit covers 40 years of haute couture by the legendary designer.

But what exactly makes Yves Saint Laurent, the man, such a legend in the fashion world? The answer to that is simple: he was a visionary.

3.14.2012

denver or bust!


I am getting very, very excited! Next week I head to Denver to check out Yves Saint Laurent: The Retrospective at the Denver Art Museum! Exploring 40 years of creativity by Yves Saint Laurent (the man, not the brand), the exhibit, which is on view March 25 - July 8, showcases 200 haute couture outfits, as well as photographs, drawings and films that show how Saint Laurent developed his style. That is a lot of fashion to drool over!

And there will be lots of YSL to drool over on paper + cloth in the days leading up to my departure and while I'm in Denver. Stay tuned for updates, including a super amazing giveaway sponsored by Neiman Marcus at the Somerset Collection. You won't want to miss it!

2.27.2012

oscars red carpet: pretty, but not that exciting

Let me start by saying I had a great time watching the Oscars last night. One of my good friends celebrated her birthday yesterday by hosting a viewing party, and since there ain't no party like a theme party, we all dressed up in our favorite, old school velour track suits and played Oscars bingo. Oh yeah, we keep it classy.

So yes, I had fun last night, but wasn't the red carpet...boring?!? Lots of people looked really pretty, but they also looked really safe. One of my friends and I were left pining for the wild days of Cher on the carpet in Bob Mackie, or even someone - anyone! - willing to take a fashion risk, like Cate Blanchett always does. (Seriously, where was Tilda Swinton when you need her?) Overall, the red carpet was a snoozefest, but there were a few looks that left a lasting impression:

Rooney Mara in Givenchy Couture


I adore Rooney Mara. She dresses for fashion, and this Givenchy Couture gown was a perfect choice for her. There was a lot of buzz about who would dress Mara for her first Oscar nomination - Calvin Klein was deemed a strong contender when she showed up front row at the fall show - but I had a feeling it would be Givenchy. I mean, the French house's spring couture show looked like it was created expressly for Lisbeth Salander, her character in The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo. This dress was a softer, more accessible choice, but it's flawlessly constructed with interesting, challenging design details. Not just anyone could pull this off, but Mara makes wearing it look effortless.

2.23.2012

from the archives: open hunt



Much to my delight, there has been a very British equestrian influence on the fall runways of designers as divergent as Ralph Lauren, Gucci and Emilia Wickstead. I grew up with horses, riding pretty regularly until college took over my life, and I will always have a soft spot in my heart for horses - and the clothes worn while riding them. I always preferred riding English, not only because it was more exciting (hello, jumping) but because it was more stylish. Trim hacking jackets, breeches, tall black leather boots - it's a look that's equally chic in the show ring and on the runway.

Flashback to fall 2008, when I styled a shoot at the Grosse Pointe Hunt Club for the September/October issue of Ambassador Magazine. Photographed by Michelle Matiyow and Lians for LM Studios, the concept was to juxtapose formal, aristocratic portraits of the models with sexier, cinematic shots that told a different story. Check out the full shoot, with credits, below.

2.20.2012

an ode to the little black dress


Audrey Hepburn, her hair piled on top of her head, draped in Tiffany jewels and wearing that Givenchy black dress, cigarette holder in hand as she smiles coyly. How that image - the image that catapulted Audrey from ingenue to fashion icon when Breakfast at Tiffany's premiered 50 years ago - came to be is the subject of Fifth Avenue, 5 A.M., the charming book by Sam Wasson that I read cover to cover over the weekend.

Breakfast at Tiffany's is one of my favorite movies of all time, for so many reasons. Despite its flaws (hello, Mickey Rooney as Yunioshi), the story of Holly Golightly, the little call girl who could, is so absolutely endearing and romantic, Audrey so incredibly chic and fabulous.

And there's that Givenchy dress.