Style Icon: Clemence Poesy

French actress and model Clemence Poesy is currently making a fashion splash in the States.  She is best known for her acting roles as Fleur Delacour in the Harry Potter movies, Eva on Gossip Girl, and Rana in 127 Hours.  Her "Je-nais-se-quoi" style has fashion big wigs taking notice.  She been front row on some of the best fashion shows, recently did a spread for Harper's Bazaar with Chanel designer Karl Lagerfeld, and has been the face of Chloé's perfume.

She has that carefree French style that many envy but few can successfully achieve.  Her look is basic, a bit quirky, classic and refined but still with sex appeal.  She looks best in relaxed Chanel pieces, with a mix of "pulled together" and "rushed out the door".

To get her look for less:

J. Crew Rialta Tweed Jacket, $250
J. Crew Tuxedo Shirt in Thomas Mason fabric, $150
Citzens of Humanity Hutton Wide-Legs, $189
Zara Fashion Blucher, $79.90

Zara Blazer with Contrasting Lapel, $129
Anthropologie Hermitage Top, $98
Zara Straight Trousers, $79.90
Zara Ballerina, $49.90
Forever 21 Tweed Shoulder Bag, $22.80














XOXO,
Coco Birdie

**Images via GoogleImages.

Spring 2011 Couture

The couture shows for Spring 2011 took place at the end of January and we are seeing more of the looks featured on the red carpet, including the Oscars.  Here's an overview of the six main collections, from my least favorite to my most favorite:

Armani's collection, to me, was just off the mark.  It didn't say "Armani".  It said "TRON meets 90s-revival."  The dresses over pants, shimmer fabrics, button hats, and dark purple lips didn't cut it.  Out of 41 looks, these are the only looks I liked (and even then, just sort-of liked).  Armani is traditionally classic and tailored with glamor and a bit of androgyny, not futuristic, shiny, and saucer-topped.

 I was quiet disappointed in Chanel's collection.  It was sober and lacked the dazzle one hopes for with couture.  The collection featured mostly separates and, like Armani, dresses and skirts over pants.  There were no amazing gowns either, though I believe Michelle Williams wore a version of the last dress pictured to the Oscars.  I found myself much more in love with the label's Byzantine-inspired Pre-Fall collection.  The colors (black, white, and blush tones) and tweeds were undeniably Chanel and the collection had lovely moments.  But overall, I left feeling "eh" towards it.

Valentino's collection was also drab in color, but it features some really well-designed details.  The layered collars, ruffles, floral applique, and tiny bows were a delight amidst a sea of nude tones.  The shimmer and beading in some of the more formal pieces was stunning.  Again, I felt myself longing for a really great red dress.  I felt that the silhouettes and detailing were there, but not the palette.

Jean Paul Gaultier's collection had some real attitude and spunk about it.  His Gothic/Punk collection was like taking a shot of alcohol- it revs you up and gets the blood flowing.  The models had mohawks and make-up that was a roughed up take on classic cat-eyes and red lips.  The collection featured great details like cut-outs, feather-like tulle, bandaging, and a hint of old-fashioned glamor.

Dior's collection was, with-out a doubt, the most show-stopping.  Galliano created magic and beauty yet again in his amazing collection that featured takes on classic Dior silhouettes, such as the New Look.  The ombré fabrics, draping, embellishments, and layers of tulle blew me away.  The models oozed old Hollywood glamor and femme fatale sexiness.  Only reason it wasn't my favorite collection (by a small margin)?  I felt like I've seen very similar pieces from other Dior couture collections.

Elie Saab's couture collection was my favorite.  I felt like it was everything a couture collection should be- elegant, entrancing, and stunningly gorgeous.  The collection feature a wide range of colors- from rosey pinks to lavender, greens, reds, grays, and drop-dead sexy black.  Each garment was showcased amazing details like three-dimensional flowers, beading, and lace.  We've already seen several looks on the red carpet, including the lavender piece seen above on Mila Kunis at the Oscars and the off-the shoulder red number on Halle Berry.  I don't blame them- if I were attending a red carpet event, Elie Saab would be my go-to man.


XOXO,
Coco Birdie


**Images via Style.com

How to Wear: Minimalism

When I travel, I try to pack in a basic color story with items that can be worn many ways.  This makes for easy mixing-and-match, lighter packing, and forces me to look at pieces in a new light.  Then I got to thinking, "Why am I not doing this all the time?"  When the latest issue of Real Simple arrived in the mail, I really saw the light.  They have an inspiring fashion spread on modern and minimal pieces.

That said, I've complied a pictorial review of some of the principles of minimalist dressing.  Look for pieces that are well designed with limited "extra stuff."  One of the best designers that continually achieves this is Francisco Costa for Calvin Klein.  He uses clean lines, basic shapes, and neutral colors to create a sophisticated, sharp look.

(L to R): Spring 2011, Spring 2011, Pre-Fall 2011, Pre-Fall 2011, and Pre-Fall 2011


When creating a minimal wardrobe, neutral colors help create timeless options.  They match themselves and each other seamlessly.  One way to look instantly pull together is with a monochromatic pallet of really nice pieces. 
(L to R): The Row, Donna Karan, The Row, Lyn Devon, and Jil Sander

(L to R): The Row, ADAM, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Donna Karan, and The Row

(L to R): Donna Karan, Doo.Ri, Rachel Roy, Derek Lam, and Derek Lam


This doesn't exclude colors either, both pastels and brights.  Many of the traditional minimalist designers showed hot pinks, oranges, and bright blues on the Spring 2011 RTW runways.

(L to R): Jil Sander, 3.1 Phillip Lim, Lyn Devon, Akris, and Jil Sander



By mixing neutral colored clean pieces, you can achieve a color blocked affect that is very modern looking.
(L to R): The Row, Lyn Devon, ADAM, Givenchy, and Jil Sander


Three things to keep in mind with a minimal look: (1) structure and draping; (2) texture; and (3) accessories.

I feel that minimalist pieces can be either structure or draped, though structured (see Calvin Klein) is more traditionally thought of as minimalist.  I think the key here is that the piece should be effortless and aren't "over designed" (read: embellishments on top of screen printing, on top of unnecessary seams/zippers/pockets, on top of a destructed look).

Next is texture.  Texture is a great way to keep a monochromatic outfit from looking dull.  Take a look again at the first color blocked image from The Row- a knit sweater over a silk shirt with leather pants.  Basic, yes.  Dull, no.

Finally, accessories.  Why would you take a beautiful, simplistic outfit and junk it up with costume jewelry?  Accessories should coordinate well with your outfit, but are still a great way to add personality.  Consider just earrings, a bracelet, or a statement ring (but not all three).


Inspiration for minimalist dressing is all around.  I like to look to architecture and interior design, and Dwell magazine and Design Within Reach are great resources.  So is the hilarious website, Unhappy Hipsters.

 

You can also find inspiration in the celebrity world.  There are a few celebrities that have developed a consistent style, and they show off the range of looks in minimalism.  Kate Bosworth has a sweet, pastel sense, while Angelina Jolie is more sex pot and Kate Lanphear is more rock and roll.  Gwyneth Paltrow, Claire Danes, and Audrey Hepburn are great sources, too.

 

Shopping for modern, minimal pieces is fairly easy if you use an editing eye.  Consider the color, look at how well it is made, and think about how many ways you can wear it.  No store is off limits, from Anthropologie to Theory.  Here's a selection of pieces currently in stores to get you started:

Monochromatic Black (L to R): Kate Spade Mirna Dress, Eileen Fisher Lace Trim Long Cami, Theory Biara Pants, Banana Republic Draped One-Shoulder Dress

Monochromatic Ivory (L to R): Theory Codey Top, Max Azria Cotton/Bemberg Twill Skirt, BCBG Draped Cowl Neck Dress, Eileen Fisher Classic Collar Long Shirt

Monochromatic Grey (L to R): Gap Asymmetrical T, Banana Republic Silk Betty Layered Dress, Banana Republic Gemma Wrap Dress, Ann Taylor Luxury Drape Wrap

Monochromatic Color (L to R): Anthropologie Irresistible Maxi Dress, J. Crew Hammered Silk Flambé Dress, RACHEL Rachel Roy Michelle Dress, Kate Spade Janelle Skirt

Color Blocking (L to R): Gap Color Block Welt-Pocket T, Anthropologie Perpendiculars Sweater, BCBG Color Blocked Silk Dress, J. Crew Silk Serenade Color Block Dress

XOXO,

Coco Birdie

Current Obsession: Book Clutches

Olympia Le-Tan and Kate Spade have recently released book inspired clutches, which I absolutely love.

Olympia Le-Tan makes the clutches out of fabric and the covers are embroidered.  Style.com placed these whimsical clutches on their "future collectibles" list.   They have been carried on the red carpet by Clemence Poesy and Natalie Portman.  One was also spotted by fashion blog Jak & Jil at fashion week:

Kate Spade's books are made of printed fabric with a plastic overlay.  Her classic covers have modern graphics and her signature bright colors and fun linings.

The drawback to these fabulous book clutches?  Their price points: $1,245 for an Olympia Le-Tan and $325 for a Kate Spade.  I'm determined to figure out how to make one myself.

Penguin has released some beautiful hardcover copies of their classic books, like "Alice in Wonderland", "The Odyssey", and "Little Women", as well as classic children's books.  You can find them on Amazon or in some Anthropologie stores.  I've purchased the "Wuthering Heights" copy, seen above, with hopes of turning it into a clutch.  I'll let you know how it goes!


XOXO,
Coco Birdie

Designer Profile: Kay Oss

 Before the holidays, I had the pleasure of attending a trunk show for a wonderful St. Louis label, Kay Oss.  The collection is carried in boutiques across the St. Louis metropolitan area, and is expanding to many other states.

My favorite piece is the reversible halter.  I love getting multiple options in one garment and this one is exceptional!  I purchased a gray and pink one, but there are many different color selections.  Pictured below is a hot pink version:

I also loved her sequin pieces, seen here is the top and skirt worn together for a seamless look:

Many of her pieces feature textural and visually interesting fabrics, such as the silver rosette skirt above.  There was also a really wonderful ruched leather skirt and some great patterns.  One of the other pieces I loved was the long gold pleated skirt, seen here with one of the brown reversible halters:

Check out her amazing stuff online, or in various local boutiques (including the designer's CWE studio, Edwardsville's "What To Wear", and Clayton's "Valarie Mills").  Kay Oss is also shown during St. Louis Fashion Week.

http://www.kayossdesigns.com/index.html
http://www.facebook.com/KayOssDesigns


XOXO,
Coco Birdie


**Images via Facebook

Current Obsession: Marcel Waves

Marcel waves, also known as finger waves, were popular in the 1920s and continue to be a favorite amongst designers and starlets.  They are fairly easy to do, come in a variety of looks, and can work with many lengths of hair.

Diane Kruger has worn Marcel waves several times, each with a different vibe.  From polished to decorated, they always make a statement.

When adding glitz to your waves, consider vintage and estate jewelry.  Dolce & Gabbana featured some beautiful combs and clips in their Spring 2010 collection:

For instructions on how to make Marcel waves, see the image below (which can be enlarged by clicking on it), or search YouTube for videos.

XOXO, Coco Birdie


*Images via Style.com and Google Images

Top 10 Gowns of 2010

10.  Jessica Biel in Oscar de la Renta at the "Valentine's Day" Hollywood Premiere

9.  Kerry Washington in Marchesa at the Metropolitan Opera

8.  Christina Hendricks in Christian Siriano at the Golden Globes

7.  Carey Mulligan in Prada at the Oscars

6.  Claire Danes in Armani Privé at the Emmys

5.  Carey Mulligan in Vionnet at BAFTA

4.  Anne Hathaway in Valentino at the Costume Institute Gala

3.  Camilla Belle in Jason Wu at the Costume Institute Gala

2.  Camilla Belle in Yves Saint Laurent at the Metropolitan Opera

1.  Natalie Portman in Rodarte at the Venice Film Festival Premiere of "Black Swan"