DESIGN CRUSH: MICHELLE SMITH

MILLY by MICHELLE SMITH

In my never-ending love for fashion, I am always interested in the movers and shakers within the fashion industry.  Recently, my attention has turned to Michelle Smith, the gorgeous designer behind the fashion line Milly.

Ever since she was a little girl, Michelle had a passion for clothing and set her sights on becoming a leading American fashion designer.  With a FIT education, training at Hermes’, Louis Vuitton , Torrente and Christian Dior, Michelle honed her skills and launched her own line, Milly, in 2001.

Known for timeless silhouettes and sexy, feminine flair, the Milly by Michelle Smith line will make any woman feel more beautiful.  I especially love the luxurious fabrics, bold colors and stunning prints that Michelle incorporates into her line each season.

  Michelle’s personal style is classic and timeless.  Her natural, wholesome beauty makes her relatable to the everyday woman. 

Soft, feminine fabrics and bold color are signature statements for the Milly line.

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A model walks the runway at the Milly By Michelle Smith Spring 2009 fashion show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week at The Promenade, Bryant Park on September 10, 2008 in New York City.

I love this print and the feminine and wearable silhouette of this piece.

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These outerwear pieces and fun and stylish.

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 And, if you think Michelle’s design talent stops with fashion, think again. This is the Upper East Side Manhattan apartment Michelle designed with her husband.  So beautiful.   

Check out more photos of Michelle’s home, here!

  

image via Michelle Smith

If you love the Milly line as much as I do, you’ll be excited to know that in Spring 2011, Michelle will open her flagship store on Madison Avenue in New York.  And, she’ll also be launching her handbag and jewelry lines as well! 

Oh Happy Day!

IT’S ALL A CROC!

The concept of a watch as a fashion statement has really taken off.  This past Spring and into Summer it was all about the Sandra Bullock Watch from the Blindside movie.  The white Toy Watch and all of its knock-off versions were on just about every womans wrist that I saw.  It was refreshing to see a non-metal, non-gold or silver watch leap to the forefront of style.  It really was the perfect summer watch! 

Sandra Bullock Blind Side Watch toywatch White Plasteramic Sandra bullock blind side movie 32208-WHProduct Image

But, I am glad that Fall will be ushering in a more classic watch trend–crocodile (or faux) leather bands.  I love the look of a mens inspired watch and how it will mix so great with the feminine clothing that will be in stores for Fall. 

And even better, I already own one of the  gems!

 

What’s your favorite watch style?

 

Photo Source:  Toy Watch, Elle

NY FASHION WEEK ON A BUDGET

Given the slew of fall fashion magazines showing up in my mailbox, Fall most definitely is just around the corner, AND I’ve already told you, I can’t wait!   When it comes to fashion, Fall is my season.  I love sweaters and cozy scarves; I love boots and cute gloves; I love wool coats and anything suede.  I love it all.

This past weekend, I spent several hours looking through my magazines and drooling over all the fabulous fall fashions.  There were so many great looks and “to-die-for” items, my head was spinning just thinking about my shopping excursion.  But then, I came to my senses and realized there was no way I could afford it all. So, being the “value” shopper that I am, I hopped on my computer to find some of these great “NY runway”  looks for less.  Boy did I hit the jack pot. 

Check out the fall fashion trends I fell in love with and the “bargain” finds that will help me bring my fall wardrobe to life.

The NY trend:  MILITARY INSPIRED: 

 military fashion

My fabulous find:  Pleated Military Jacket–$42.00  Forever 21

 

The NY trend:  SOPHISTICATED 70’S

 70s daytime glamour

My fabulous find:  Wide Leg Tweed Pants–$24.99  Newport News

The NY trend: 60’s GIRL GLAM

full plaid skirt

plaid skirts-flare skirt ships 101Three Button Cardi With Fur Shawl Collar, Ships 10/1

My fabulous find:  Grey and Black Plaid Skirt–$109  Jones New York

My fabulous find:  Faux Fur Shawl Collar Cardigan–$149  Jones New York

The NY Trend:  LEATHER 

 Leather trend on the runway

large product image

My fabulous find:  Asymmetrical Leather Jacket-$400  Michael Michael Kors

The NY trend:  MENSWEAR INSPIRED SHIRTS

Celine Fall 2010

Petite Ruffle Button-Down Shirt

My fabulous find:  Petite Ruffle Front Shirt–$78.00  Ann Taylor

The NY trend:  CAMEL COATS

Ada Kokosar

Lover 

My fabulous find:  Cottage Wool-felt coat–$610  Net-a Porter

The NY trend:   VELVET

 Velvet clothing trend

Dandy velvet suit trend

Belted Velvet Scoopneck TopBelted velvet jacket

My fabulous find:  Belted Velvet Scoopneck Top–$59.00 Spiegel

My fabulous find:  Belted Velvet Jacket–$49.99 Newport News

The NY trend:  CAPES

Women's Capes

GUESS by Marciano

My fabulous find:  Linley Cape–$238.00  Guess by Marciano

The NY trend:  FUR BAGS

fur handbag

Image 1 of ASOS Fantasy Fur Lady Bag

My fabulous find:  Fantasy Fur Lady Bag–$60.66  Asos

The NY trend:  FRAME & BUCKLE FRONT BAGS

frame handbag

satchel handbag

My fabulous find:  Kate Landry Chain Frame Satchel–$69.00  Dillards 

 

Anyone want to join me on my shopping adventure?

NY Fashion Week photo source

THE SEPTEMBER ISSUE

My wonderful husband rarely complains about my addiction to magazines, but when the September issue of Vogue magazine arrived in the mailbox, he had a few things to say, some GOOD, (he thinks Halle Berry is the bomb), and some BAD, (why the hell is that magazine so heavy?!!)

I, however,  was thrilled beyond words that the “fashion bible” had arrived in the mail.  Ok, I did have a few choice words too, when I picked up the magazine and nearly dropped it on my foot because the weight caught me off guard. 

My love for the September issue of Vogue started a few years back when I causally picked up an issue at Barnes and Noble.  I love fashion and worked in the industry for 16 years, but part of me always felt like Vogue was “too serious” and too “out of reach” for the average person, so I never devoted a lot of time to reading it.  Then in 2006,  along came the movie, The Devil Wears Prada.  Can I say love at first sight!   I absolutely adore this movie, (ok, I’m addicted to it) and watch it at least once a month. 

The Devil Wears Prada was loosely based on the life of Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of American Vogue and her daily musing and adventures as the head of the worlds most famous fashion magazine.  After seeing the movie, and gaining a new level of  love and respect for the fashion industry, fashion magazines and all things stylish, I purchased the Sept. 2006 issue of Vogue.  That was the turning point for my absolute admiration, devotion and love for Vogue Magazine.

Oh, and if you haven’t seen the movie The September Issue, which is a documentary about the making of the September issue of Vogue, check it out.  It too is a fabulous flick.

So, while I haven’t read this years issue yet, at 728 pages, I can only imagine all the wonderful accessories, shoes, clothing and style advice the magazine holds.  I plan to set aside a whole afternoon to devour each page, take notes, make a shopping list and “ooh” and “aah” over all the beautiful people.

via Vogue Magazine

 And after I read the issue, I plan to spend the rest of the day watching two of my favorite movies. 

 Life is Bliss!

 The Devil Wears Prada

images via Amazon

Have you read the September issue of  Vogue?  If so, what were some of your favorite features?  Please share, I’d love to know.

ANIMAL INSTINCTS

I’ve begun to check out what will be some of the hottest fall fashion trends and am thrilled to see that ANIMAL PRINTS are back.  To me, animal prints never really go out of style but it is exciting to know that there will be lots more choices for me to select from. Here are a few of my early fall favorites: 
Neely Tote
 
This beauty of a handbag is the Neely Tote from Mulberry. Mulberry items can be a bit expensive, but there is good news if you happen be shopping on a budget like me.  In October of 2010, head to your nearest Target where Mulberry will be introducing a limited edition handbag collection. 

Adrienne Landau Leopard Spot Rabbit Vest

Banana Republic Leopard Print Haircalf Belt

What’s on your shopping list for Fall?

until next time…

DESIGN CRUSH: TORY BURCH

Tory Burch

I love that among the most talented American Fashion designers is one of my favorites, Tory Burch.  Designing for the modern woman, Tory has created a following worthy of  icon status.  Her designs epitomize classic american sportswear, yet they have an upbeat, eclectic vibe as well. 
 
Inspired by art, photography, films and travel, Tory credits her aesthetic to the style of her mom and dad, as well as interior designer David Hicks.  One look at the interior of her boutiques, and you’ll see that in addition to an incredible sense of fashion, her eye for interior design is honed as well.

 

Flagship New York Boutique

Currently there are 34 Tory Burch boutiques throughout the US and Asia, all adorned with a few signature Tory Burch elements. 
 
Wanting to design her stores to feel more like a stylish home environment, Tory has incorporated orange lacquered doors & walls, mirrored surfaces and lucite fixtures in each boutique.  The furnishings are plush and cozy and many of the rooms within the boutique feature signature Tory Burch patterns as the wall paper design. The photo above, from her NY boutique, looks like it could have been plucked straight out of a New York highrise condo.

The Seoul, Korea boutique, above and below, featuring orange accent walls, seagrass carpeting and classically styled furniture.
 
 
With a fashion line that encompasses clothing, handbags, shoes and jewelry, the Tory Burch line has something for everyone.
Here are a few of the pieces debuted during her Fall 2010 Runway show.

This “shaggy” Fawn jacket is absolutely adorable!  And there is even a vest version, below.

 Just like her boutiques, there are a few signature elements that you see in Tory’s clothing line.
 
Graphic Prints, Bold Colors & Ethnic details make the Tory Burch line a stand out in the fashion world.
Atlanta Boutique, here I come!
 
Photo source:  Tory Burch, NY Post

IT’S A SPECIAL NIGHT

 Tonight is a special night…Why you ask? 

Because Project Runway is back?

 Season 8 airs tonight at 9 pm on Lifetime!

I can’t wait to see what daunting challenges the designers are faced with and what incredible (or hideous) outfits they design.  As a person who loves fashion, and has spent many years working in the industry, Project Runway always makes me think back to my college days and “what if” I had chosen fashion design as my major. Hum???

 I hope you’re as excited as I am, but in case your excitement hasn’t built yet, here are a few of my favorite outfits from seasons past.  This just might inspire you to watch!

 

 

images via Project Runway on Lifetime

20 THINGS TO LOVE ABOUT SUMMER

1.  CUTE, SPORTY BICYCLES…old school style!

via amazon

2.  SASSY SUNDRESSES in nostalgic madras plaids!

via old navy

3. FUN & WHIMSICAL FLIP FLOPS–the ultimate go to summer shoe!

via amazon

Watermelon-Blackberry-and-Mint-Salad-5

4. WATERMELON AND BLACKBERRIES–alone or together, summer wouldn’t be the same without them!

via two peas and their pod

5.  FLIRTY SUMMER SKIRTS-Cool, Comfortable and stylish!

via forever 21

6.  CLASSIC WHITE KEDS SNEAKERS–A touch preppy and never out of style!

via zappos

7.  ICE SCREAM, YOU SCREAM, WE ALL SCREAM FOR ICE CREAM!

via martha stewart

The music being played by the approaching ice cream truck was one of the best sounds of summer.  I could hear it from miles away. 

8. EYELET FABRICS–Designs have become a bit more sophisticated now-a-days,  but eyelet fabric will always have a classic, youthful feel to it.

via mod cloth

 9.  HAMMOCKS–The best way to spend a leisurely summer afternoon, reading decorating magazines of course!

via ten thousand villages

10.  SUNGLASSES, especially ones that make a statement!

via nordstrom

11.  OLD FASHIONED SODA POP from a glass bottle!  How refreshing.

via amazon

12.  A “JUST BECAUSE” WATCH, in a bright, bold color.

via amazon

13.  GINGHAM!  A little bit country, and a whole lot cute!

via target

14.  A STRAW HANDBAG.  We’ll any new handbag is a reason to celebrate summer in my book!

via zappos

15.  A CLASSIC ESPADRILLE with a funky twist!  Too cute for words!

via zappos

16.  A SWIMSUIT…. a really cute swimsuit!

via spiegel

17.  A cute pair of SUMMER SANDALS will put pep in my step anytime.

via zappos

18.  FRESH LEMONADE is a summer staple.  When it’s served from a roadside lemonade stand it’s even better.

via apartment therapy

19.  CORAL & TURQUOISE JEWELRY.  What a wonderful way to dress up a simple summer outfit.  I love how organic yet refined these bracelets are.

via athleta

ConfettiStyle10

20.  SUMMER FLOWERS–Take a minute to stop and smell the roses flowers!

Happy Summer Everyone!

Photo Source:  Paul Frank, Old Navy, Havaianas, Flickr, Forever 21, Keds, Mod Cloth, Ten Thousand Villages, Afaze’s, Campri, Mossimo, Kate Spade, Zappos, Spiegel, Apartment Therapy, Athleta

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