STOP TALKING, Thanks.

Pre-Fall 12 Reviews (Balenciaga, Theyskens' Theory, & Prabal Gurung)

2012-01-19T14:04:00.004-06:00

Balenciaga's pre-fall 2012 collection showed that neon will not be leaving and bulky or tight silhouettes are the answer. Bright 80's-like colors and even a literal neon track lighting to show that the color is important to the look's appeal. Zebra prints used in the haus of Balenciaga in 1964 have been enlarged and recycled. Menswear inspired jackets are back for casual wear giving a strong female form juxtaposed with shorts and boots.

Theyskens' Theory is full of muted black and gray tones with accented beaded leggings and commanding boots that do just that. Again, on a menswear inspired trend with two-piece suits with a casual touch of a tee underneath. Mirrors seem to be a theme in the scheme of color with the pop of silver in the collection along with the literal mirroring of the model in the presentation photos. (maybe looking into that a little hard, but maybe not...) Either way, very flattering, yet still feminine and luxe.

Prabal Gurung's PF12 has a very bold color palette with structured forms and kaleidoscope prints. The color is muted throughout the collection with the exception of pink, a deep green, and a bit or orange from the print-the looks stay mono-chromatic. That's okay though because the styling and play on layered prints and patterns makes every look flawless. Full of very form-fitting silhouettes, the collection is full of every piece thought of. The attention to detail in the beadwork and attention to exact form makes the looks incredible ready to wear pieces.

Ph: VOGUE.com

Long time, No Blog.

2011-10-08T15:29:00.009-05:00

I can't really explain why it's been so long since I've blogged again other than my MacBook crashed at the beginning of September, and being the poor young 20-something trying to live a not so cheap/luxe (haha) lifestyle, I had to wait until October 1st to retrieve a new hard drive. That being said, I can now return to attempting to blog more frequently. Now on to Fashion weeks and music for Fall!

Balenciaga SS 12

The Spring 2012 collection had an element of architecture from head to toe. LITERALLY. Structured jackets and bold color-blocking with a touch of luxurious texture. Boxy menswear jackets over bloomer type shorts add a very commanding silhouette translated into a very powerful and bold spring collection for the Balenciaga woman.

Balmain SS 12

After the departure of Christophe Decarnin after last Fall's 2011 collection, Olivier Rousteing has turned the Balmain girl full of attitude/spunk and a hint of rock n' roll on to Western glam (?). It works. The collection still had the certain attitude that the Balmain brand has exuded in the past. Very detailed and full of shine with the gold beadwork all over the collection. Also, a hint of menswear with button-downs and pants giving the power back to the silhouette of the woman. The shoulders are high and so are the shorts/skirts. One thing is for sure is that these themes of neutrals, powder blue and prints are definitely here for Spring 2012.

Christian Dior SS 12

With rumors flying around one of the most glamourous of all of the fashion houses in the world, the fashion community was of course anxious to see what would come of the Spring 2012 Dior collection. Still without a successor since the firing of the great John Galliano last spring, the house of Dior seems to be coming back together after a disappointing Fall 2011 Couture showing of pastels and primary shapes as hat wear. Sheer loose fitting dresses and knee-length hems in about 1/3 of the collection gives a vintage and modest feel. Pops of bright red and again a powdery blue throughout the neutral shades of black white and nude adds to the flowing silhouette. Very girly and not one pair of pants in the entire collection, and that's not always a bad thing. I'm sure John Galliano will not be making a return, at all, but I sure did love his force of telling a story with a theme and show itself, which this collection seemed to be missing. :(

Fall 2011, Mix One.

Planes, Trains, & Automobiles (Blast from the Past) -PRADA SS12

2011-09-23T00:15:00.001-05:00

American Graffiti! I knew I was going to enjoy the Women's PRADA SS12 collection when I saw the Menswear this past June mostly based on the brightness and the prints. Cartoon-ish prints of fire, 1950's style cars and a use of basic pastels and bright patterns. Classic silhouettes styled into looks with dresses and pieces to be worn alone to add to a great trend. As spring should be, the collection is very colorful and classic SS holiday feel. I mean, the heels even have flames. (Adding to the literal emphasis on these shoes are gonna be "hot").

Photo credit : STYLE.com

SUMMER 2011 : Mix One

2011-07-14T14:48:00.007-05:00

A little old, a little new, fast, and slow. All the great qualities of a nice relaxing summer mix.

WASHED OUT - "Amor Fati"

Washed Out has been one of my favorite 2010/2011 discovery bands. Proenza Schouler used them in a fashion film for their 2010 FW ad campaign video and I found them on Hypemachine last year when I was in need of a new mellow band to drive to.

LADY GAGA - "The Edge of Glory", "Hair", "Bloody Mary", & "Heavy Metal Lover"

From ballad status songs like "Edge of Glory" and "Hair" - to turning the controversial story of Mary Magdalene into a screaming hit ("Bloody Mary") that helped my trip to the Vatican even more meaningful and entertaining, and using bondage like themes and lyrics pertaining to group sex in "Heavy Metal Lover" add the perfect amount of taboo to make the bass pump for the entire song.

THE KILLS "Satellite"

The Kills first single off of "Blood Pressures" sets the tone of a return of Jamie Hince and Allison Mosshart since "Sour Cherry" and "U R A Fever". The return of the Kills has made my summer that much better.

FLEETWOOD MAC "The Chain"

The classic tune of Fleetwood Mac's ballad "The Chain" is so hauntingly good that I even made a mix with only it on the tracklist.

FLORENCE+THE MACHINE "Howl" (Live at Bonnaroo 2011)

Florence Welch's "Howl" is amazing as a studio version, and this just shows that the talent never stops with this live version from this summer's Bonnaroo 2011.

SKRILLEX "Died this Way"

Enough said. The screaming doesn't even get to me anymore.

Happy Fourth from StopTalking!, Reserve- Public Bikes (!!!), The Real Royal Wedding, & Givenchy/Dior (without Galliano) Couture 2011.

2011-07-07T11:02:00.008-05:00

Happy Belated Fourth!!!

First, let me start off by saying Happy Fourth to all the American readers out there! I had my first Fourth with a roommate. We had a great time getting used to a new place and having an all around good time whilst enjoying good drinks and food!

Made burgers on the grill...all by myself!

Relaxing with a reptilian guest a get together in an amazing Man-cave!

Clarissa's hardwork on her firework cookies!

Clarissa and I

My room...still under creative construction.

Public Bikes x Reserve29

This deal from Reserve|Refinery29 showed up on my Twitter feed yesterday, and I could not wait to share it with StopTalking. The bike company out of San Francisco, Public Bikes, is coming together with Refinery29 for an exclusive deal ending on July 12, 2011. The deal gives members on Reserve $200 with Public Bikes for the bike of their dreams for spending $100! Now, you too can have the perfect summer vintage looking bike without spending a fortune to fix one up with fresh paint and parts. This is a deal that must not go overlooked! Check it out!

(Photo cr.: Public Bikes)

A Real Royal Wedding

Just 3 months ago people could not stop talking about "The Royal Wedding" of Prince William and Kate Middleton, and now a wedding that I consider to be royal has just passed. The wedding of Jamie Hince of the Kills and Kate Moss took place on July 1, 2011. With Kate being a longtime friend and companion/muse to recently ex-designer to the House of Dior, Mr. John Galliano, it was perfect for him to be the designer of her wedding gown. Forbes reported that Moss' gown and ring were inspired by wife of author, F. Scott Fitzgerald's, Zelda Fitzgerald. I consider this to be a real royal wedding because of the long line of rocker/model weddings in the past. Jamie Hince and Kate Moss are two of the most influential contenders in the worlds of music and fashion and I hope they are very happy together!

(Photo cr.:Terry Richardson, Terry's Diary)

Dior Couture 2011- Moon Mobile headpieces and Pastel Disappointments

I've been trying to catch up with Couture week and I have decided to pick one of my favorites and one of my...not so favorites. It's no secret that the fashion world has been holding its' breath until the next collection for Dior withOUT Galliano in charge was to be presented. It shows without Galliano at Dior that holding our breathes was no understatement. The complete aesthetic that Galliano tried to return the House to under his reign is no longer existent with Dior Couture 2011. I'm not really sure how to describe the collection other than that I was overwhelmed at the neglect to style in the past that has been (in a way) thrown out the window. Palettes inspired by pop patterns from the 80's and geometric shapes and (galaxy mobiles) on the models heads, the collection was disappointing to me.

(Photo cr.: VOGUE)

R.I.P. Galliano x Dior

(1996-2011)

Givenchy Couture 2011 - Structure/Flow and silhouette of a Powerful Woman

Riccardo Tisci seems to never disappoint me when it comes to presenting Couture or RTW, & Couture 2011 did not change my feelings with that statement. Keeping with the structure in length of the designs of the past few Couture shows and powerful aspect of a woman with exposed shoulders and precise detailing keep Givenchy classic and rising. Tisci, rumored to have been approached to come to Dior after the split of Galliano and Dior in March, he recently made it known to readers in Interview magazine, interviewed by Donatella Versace in the June 2011 issue-that he was happy at Givenchy and it will take him a lot for him to leave the House.

(Photo cr.: VOGUE & Interview Magazine)

Refinery29 Reserve x StopTalking,Thanks.

2011-06-29T12:40:00.009-05:00

Refinery29 x RESERVE

I was recently contacted by the fantastic people at Global Fashion Blog, Refinery29, to promote their recently launched Reserves site which features exclusive deals and products from designers and boutiques online and in New York and San Francisco, and it is seems to be nothing short of amazing!

With recent deals from Rag & Bone, French Connection, Alexander Wang, and boutiques in New York such as Wink, infamous vintage shop DeacadesTwo.1, and Tenover6, these are deals that cannot be passed up!

Currently, the Summer Hookup deal seems to be attracting my eye at the moment. With picks from Refinery29 Editors, Global and in NY & San Francisco, (Connie Wang, Kristian Laliberte, & Katie Hintz-Zambrano) from Alexander Wang, Jeffrey Campbell, and more...this deal is a must!

Please use my Personal Link to direct to the site to help with a quick login and quick start into looking at the exclusive deals that will change out weekly!!

Enjoy!!!

Murakami for Google and Mugler Mens SS12 goes NSFW.

2011-06-21T11:58:00.008-05:00

The First day of Summer "Google" logo was designed by artist, Takashi Murakami. I think it's perfect. My Macbook is beginning to be covered with Murakami stickers I came across in POP Magazine featuring cover shoot with he and Britney Spears in 2010.

(ph courtesy: Google)

Lady Gaga dancing the night away at Nicola's Formichetti's after-CFDA-Awards party in honor of Gaga's acceptance of the 2011 Fashion Icon Award.

With the MUGLER SS12 Menswear presentation approaching, creative director Nicola Formichetti has been working on a short film to preview his collection and an XXX film that will be available for view on Xtube.com on the day after the presentation. The collection,"Brothers of Arcadia", is based off of his growing up in Rome and how the combination of the baroque and classical architecture are expressed all through Rome.

UPDATE: Watch the NSFW Fashion Film by Nicola Formichetti and Branislav Jankic here!

(ph courtesy: MUGLER and Poladroid)

Gaga Jerky, James Franco shoots a Menswear Daze for ELLE, & Florence Welch is Touring in Gucci.

2011-06-17T15:24:00.012-05:00

Gaga Jerky 'on the Edge', James Franco shoots Agyness Deyn as James Dean for ELLE and also sells his body for a good cause.

Lady Gaga has released another video from her ballad filled 'Born This Way'.

"The Edge of Glory"

& Gaga's infamous meat-dress has been turned into jerky to be displayed in the

Rock n' Roll's Hall of Fame. Definitely some 5-Star jerky in my opinion.

"Raw Raw Raw Raw Raw meat..."

Jerky gone 'Gaga'.

Lady Gaga and Cher at the 2010 MTV VMA's.

James Franco shot Agyness Deyn for ELLE JULY 2011 in a Menswear/James Dean inspired shoot.

('Chateau Dreams'. Elle.com)

I am jealous,...to say the least.

Franco also supported amFAR (an AIDS research non-profit) at a Gala/benefit by auctioning off a PERSONAL photo shoot with himself and the winner.

The winning bid went for $17,000!

(Story from the GQ Eye)

***Also spotted speaking with Ke$ha at the event, which is actually more interesting than the price tag on that photo shoot, well to me anyway!

(Photos: Style.com)

News was recently released that the beauty that is Florence Welch of Florence and the Machine will be wearing Gucci on her Summer 2011 tour. I can't think of anything better.

Florence in VOGUE JULY 2011 at the Met Gala for "Savage Beauty".

(Personal photo taken on Fusioncam)

A sketch of a look for Florence from GUCCI.

Trip of a Lifetime- Schiße, Roman Holiday, and An American in Paris (Summer 2011)

2011-06-15T09:48:00.018-05:00

THE TRIP OF A LIFETIME.

-Germany, Roma, Paris-

Passport- Arrival and Departure stamps from Frankfurt, Germany

Lunch in Idar-Oberstein.

Porta Nigra. The Black Wall. The Oldest city in Germany, Trier.

Inside a beautiful sanctuary in Trier.

Stained window in Idar-Oberstein.

Des Champs Elysses, Metro tix, Laduree Macaroons ♥, Notre Dame Coin, Rue De Sevres', Ticket to The Eiffel Tower.

Paris Metro Map, Tickets, Marc by Marc Jacobs First Paris store, Louvre Ticket.

Louis outside of the Louvre.

Trevi

Chanel ad at the Trevi Fountain. View from inside the Louvre.

My nephew, Cale and I.

Notre Dame.

Inside Notre Dame.

Colosseo, Vatican, Castel Sant' Angelo - Roma, Italy

Trevi Fountain.

En Route.

View from the ruins into Rome.

Beautiful fruits...giving me Prada vibes.

The Colosseum. (Colosseo)

Inside Sistine Chapel. Breathtaking.

Fence view of a Villa in Rome.

Roma arms.

Breakfast in Rome. REAL coffee.

Sistine Chapel.

Spotted Prada SS11 in Roma. Ooh la la

Rome Ruins.

This trip was a life changing experience for me. It was just so surreal to stand around and take it all in knowing how many artists have come and gone after being inspired by such a beautiful cities. Paris helped me make up my mind on where I would like to live other than my dream of New York. The air, people, lifestyle just exude such a positivity to project the BEAUTIFUL in life.

For more photos or larger/HQ shots : www.flickr.com/awhesterphotography

Enjoy!

Voguepedia, "Peck Specs", "Savage Beauty", & Birimingham Fashion Week 2011.

2011-05-11T13:58:00.010-05:00

-VOGUEpedia is OPEN! -After launching their own website at the end of last year, Vogue.com has launched Voguepedia, which holds VOGUE archives where visitors can base their search on designer, brand, model, "personality", and beauty.

-Oliver Peoples trademarks The "Gregory Peck" specks. (For a limited time!) Now you can go on a 'Roman Holiday' or channel the style of Atticus Finch during the great depression-('To Kill a Mockingbird').

THE Gregory Peck.

Oliver Peoples "Peck" specs.

-McQ of Alexander McQueen has launched their own Official Tumblr with links to their Facebook, Twitter, and video sharing sites, YouTube and Vimeo. Welcome to social networking you dreaming masters of fashion, you! Photographer, Niall O'Brien took a trip of spontaneity with the world of McQ up the Western U.S. coast to create campaigns pairing small town scenery with raw imagery to create genius works of art and branding. ALSO -(old news, but,) Alexander McQueen - "Savage Beauty" was this year's Met Ball exhibit inspiration. The genius work of the late Alexander McQueen opened on May 4 (and will run until) July 11 at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Met Store even has tiny McQueenadillo ornaments, a book featuring the work displayed in the exhibit, "Savage Beauty", and other gifts. Must haves for any fan of the journey/work of Alexander McQueen!

UPDATE: After already having 150,000 visitors to the McQueen Met exhibit only one month into its' showing- the exhibit has been extended until August 7!! -Giving the world to get up close and personal with this genius work for almost one full month!

Photos by Niall O'Brien (3 photos above).

Works of the late McQueen at the Met exhibit. (4 photos above)

Holographic image of McQueen's "Savage Beauty" cover (L) SS10 McQueenadillo ornament (R)

-Also, a little personal news/catch-up...I got to sit in the pit for MyScoop.us press for the first annual Birmingham Fashion Week on April 29, 2011. The collections of designers such as Leona, Project Runway contestant and well-known Bridal gown designer, Heidi Elnora, the menswear boutique in Birmingham, Shaia's, and up and comer designers like winner of the Design Star of BFW11', William Bradley, were shown. Click here for more information about Birmingham Fashion Week!

Leona (Above).

Shaia's (L) Heidi Elnora (R)

Heidi Elnora, Jeana Lee Fleming, and Lauren Leonard of Leona (L). Angel Vuong and I (R).

On A Limb - By: Guest Blogger, Kelsey Hendrix.

2011-04-19T17:20:00.017-05:00

"On a Limb"

William Bradley’s A/W ’12 line brings nature back to the foreground

of high fashion

By Kelsey Hendrix

Inspired. Impeccable. Innovative. The William Bradley A/W 2012 line was a sight to behold and a testament to the power of what can come when creative thinking and natural talent are put to the test.

On March 24, this small-town, student show at the Harrison Galleries in Tuscaloosa, Alabama took on the character of a fashion week headliner, producing only the most inspired of looks and tailor-made pieces. It took the classic ideas of femininity and masculinity, combining them to produce sleek coats, silk jumpsuits, and loose trousers, as designer William Bradley, a senior design student at the University of Alabama, dared to stray from traditional chic. His use of mix-matched textures, fabrics and colors, inspired by the irrational and eclectic tendencies of nature, took the audience by surprise.

The models portrayed the image of men and women too confident to conform, with the music and atmosphere only emphasizing the overlying idea that fashion holds high power when inspired by an innate sense of design.

Splashes of deep tones against black textured tights and rich, collared trenches captivated the attention of those in attendance. A color scheme of deep purple, navy blue, honey brown, rich black and stark white defined a strict theme that is not only wearable but bold.

William Bradley is best known for infusing nuanced sophistication with elements of strength and posterity. His ability to completely immerse himself into his work and the creative process in creating a line is readily obvious to the viewer as his passion and vision come to life in motion on the runway. When asked about his inspiration for his “On A Limb” show, Bradley said the line is “about the juxtaposition between hard and soft materials and the amazing harmony that is produced when you combine the two together.” And the sass and sophistication couldn’t be more obvious.

Bradley’s use of traditional, natural and synthetic fabrics portrayed a depth of purpose behind the articles of clothing. A golden men’s coat created from tapestry hit the knees defining a man importance, while a plum colored silk blouse paired with a honey brown, western-style skirt employed a sense of initiative in casual situations. His McQueen-esque style is fascinating and awe-inspiring, while remaining relatable and desirable all at the same time.

(Above: Menswear tapestry gold coat from the collection)

Elaborate closures accentuated even more elaborate collars that lined the rim of coats that exclaim confidence. Simple patterns, thick scarves and leather accentuation added to the candor of the line. A clear art for tailoring peered through as trousers fit tight behind and loose at the ankle, giving off the impression of greater height and length that is so often desired.

In a show which assaulted the senses almost every other second, a premier collection was born. All of the traditional rules of fashion went out the window, as William Bradley worked to break the boundaries drilled into the minds of men and women since the age of infancy. The basis of femininity seemed to take on the energy and vigor of the clothes, transforming a typically average skirt or jumpsuit into a magical garment, full of surprises and hidden textured treasures.

(Left, the designer himself. Right, Flyer from his recent showing.)

Designs and more information about the designer can be found at www.williambradley.co. And as the phrases “unpredictable nature, evolution from hard to soft, the rhythm of nature, and beauty transformed,” dash across the screen, a line will be realized that exposes the idea that the sky really is the limit and fashion is merely a test of the imagination.

(Photos courtesy of : Corey Nolen and WilliamBradley.co)

----------------------------------

Updated on May 2, 2011 - William Bradley, designer, showed at the 1st Annual Birmingham Fashion Week 2011 on Friday, April 29, 2011, and won "Design Star of Birmingham Fashion Week 2011".

Full size photos at link below.

Photos by: Andrew Hester

Lady Gaga for Harper's Bazaar May 2011 : Shot by Terry Richardson

2011-04-13T14:53:00.010-05:00

Lady Gaga | Harper's Bazaar | May 2011

Interviewed by: Derek Blasberg

Photographed by: Terry Richardson

Lady Gaga is horns out for Harper's Bazaar covering the May 2011 issue

shot by Terry Richardson.

Inside the editorial includes looks from Alexander McQueen, Mugler, Versace, Dior Couture, and Francesco Scognamigilo. Shot in the raw flash form by iconic Photographer Terry Richardson, Gaga is baring all, and giving insight to her new look (mutations/horns) and "Born this Way" (to be released on May 23, 2011).

Also giving insight to the message behind the use of artistic expression and newfound celebrity Rick Genest,(who Nicola Formichetti found on Facebook!) in the recently released video for "Born this Way". She also speaks on Nick Knight and the true influence behind the inspiration for the video.

"It's artistic expression," Gaga says. "It's a performance-art piece. I have never, ever encouraged my fans or anyone to harm themselves, nor do I romanticize masochism. Body modification is part of the overarching analysis of 'Born This Way.' In the video, we use Rico, who is tattooed head to toe [including a skull on his face]. He was born that way. Although he wasn't born with tattoos, it was his ultimate destiny to become the man he is today.

As the millions of people who have seen the video for "Born This Way" can attest, Gaga devotes as much artistic energy to her visuals as she does her audio. But today she's still editing the Nick Knight--directed opening sequence, where we meet her newest creation, Mother Monster. She offers a sneak peek but warns, "You're not ready!" presumably referring to its awesomeness. "Nick Knight? He's such an asshole," she proclaims, which means he's a genius. And her inspiration for the video's out-of-this-world surrealism? "A lot of weed."

(Interview excerpts & photos courtesy of Harper's Bazaar)

Six Degrees of French Vogue - The Fashion World's Game of Musical Chairs

2011-04-06T11:47:00.012-05:00

THE SIX DEGREES OF FRENCH VOGUE

Okay yes, we can all admit that the fashion world is more a of a fashion 'community' and a business together and they go hand in hand, AND it works... For the most part. Just recently it seems to be going off track - or possibly I'm just more aware of it because it has been involving some of my favorite geniuses in this ever-changing community.

First this year, news broke that Carine Roitfeld would be stepping down from French Vogue. No real reasoning was given other than her own saying 'she was done' and she had done what she could or wanted to and she wished to move on. -I'll respect that, but this woman brought back fashion blackface and exposed nipples to the land of fashion editorial journalism. She pushed the line for what was accepted and added a power to the magazine. -Anyway, I've already ranted about that in an earlier post :) -Rumors flew that she would go and advise/help Tom Ford with his recent return to Womenswear line in 2011. (which were soon put to an end quick.) Covering French Vogue and co-editing the magazine in December 2010 added to the speculations of what was to come of the powerful twosome. Then just recently this past month it was reported that Roitfeld had been helping style Barney's Fall Campaign, and just yesterday news flew that she had style Chanel's Fall 2011 with Karl Lagerfeld. Whatever Carine does will be amazing so I have no doubt or any left over bitterness for French Vogue's loss of her even though I will miss my fix of the occasional exposed nipple.

Replacing Carine Roitfled as Editor in Chief was Emmanuelle Alt, previously stylist for the house of Balmain under Christophe Decarnin. -She replaced Roitfeld earlier this year and debuting her first cover for French Vogue in April 2011 covering with Gisele. She has said that her take on French Vogue would focus on 'more clothes' and have 'one boob' otherwise no one would be able to tell it was French Vogue. A little saddening to hear thinking of how far it was come, but we shall see if the French appreciate their Fashion journalism more breast-less and possibly more 'Balmain-less'.-

After hearing today's news about Christophe Decarnin's departure from Balmain after his no-show at his Fall 2011 presentation, (of course again rumors began to fly).

It had been reported that Christophe Decarnin was not present at the finale of his FW11 show because he had been 'hospitalized', but was fine. Only until today did official word come out that rumors of Decarnin being in a mental facility were false and that he and the chief had been having disagreements about the brand's direction for a while. Decarnin came to Balmain in 2005 and since then he has added the 'attitude' of the line that makes the Balmain girl look like she rolled out of bed in her studded army coat costing a few thousand and skinny jeans so skinny that the models sometimes looked to be 7 feet tall. The Balmain line under Decarnin gave the female form of sex appeal and power for the girl ready for the front line. No word yet on Decarnin's replacement, but he will definitely go down in history as having his reign for reviving the skinny jean movement.

(Photo credit: NYTimes, AvenueInsider, StylePov)

MyScoop.us| Spring Fashion Vacation Shoot, March 2011.| Photography by Andrew Hester

2011-03-16T23:19:00.007-05:00

MyScoop.us| Spring Fashion Shoot, March 2011.| Photography by Andrew Hester

(...for more shots & still-lifes from the shoot, view them on my Flickr!)

LINK

McQueen's Bondage Angels - FW11 Alexander McQueen by Sarah Burton

2011-03-10T13:52:00.002-06:00

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN FW11 by Sarah Burton

-The Dominating yet Angelic Woman (S&M Angels)

With almost a year under her belt as the Creative Director of Alexander McQueen, Sarah Burton has stayed true to the part I loved most about the McQueen's work while he was alive. ---Keeping the female form present, but transforming her into a dominating superhuman. The FW11 collection was very monochromatic with only a few lilac colored looks close to the end of the collection. The rumors of Burton designing soon to be wed Kate Middleton's wedding dress are still rumors, but I'm sure that after seeing this collection, the fashion world sure is hoping that finale gown was a sign. Soft elements from white fur and looks with white fabrics rushing out from the bottoms of most of the gowns. Hard elements on top of the pure like dresses with black leather formed to fit the forms of the models complete with collar straps and breast plates. I love the bondage aspect of the collection...that to me, is what kept it very 'McQueen' and powerful. Dresses and hardware/shoes made out of broken mosaic ceramic patterns into corsets on top of the flowing white floor length bottoms. I mean, it can't be a McQueen show without a little sex and feathers flying, right?! Again, Sarah Burton has produced a breath of fresh air for the FW11 Alexander McQueen collection.

Photo courtesy of VOGUE.com

'How to Pose: 101' by Andrew Hester for MyScoop.us.

2011-02-25T14:30:00.006-06:00

I was recently approached by Style/Fashion online magazine Myscoop.us to write an article on a photographer's tips to pose for a photograph. Enjoy! Original link to article HERE.

"There are only a few tips a photographer can give to a model or subject in front of their camera.

The first thing to consider when taking a photo is thinking about what you look like once the flash goes off or once you hear the ‘click’.-Relax, the art of photography is based on the natural being of the human body and capturing it in that moment or realness.

Two important things to remember is learning your angles and also learning how to smile with your eyes.

1.The hand-on-the-hip pose has become an extreme go-to pose since the Hollywood red carpet and since runways became open to household viewing. Think about what kind of photo is being taken and go with the natural flow. The hand on the hip pose can be unflattering if done wrong so always beware. It is always safe to stand up straight (with your best side showing, more than likely the side you feel the most natural turning with) with your shoulders squared with your hands naturally down by your side. The one hand lightly on the hip and one hand down by your side can be flattering as well, but the key is to not grabbing your hip as if it’s helping you stand up and so it does not appear that you have broken your back.

The term “giving good face” has been a term way before Madonna’s ‘Vogue’ and is still very helpful today in the art of photography. Everyone gets ready in front of a mirror and double-takes before they leave the house if a photo is taken if they’re going for a night out on the town so just practice in front of the mirror.

2. Learning how to smile with one’s eyes can be a tricky task if it feels more natural to smile with their mouth open. Smiling “with teeth” is okay if it is in moderation and not too over the top. If your mouth is tired from smiling by the end of taking a group of photos then it is going to across as cheesy. Try centering your eyes and with your lips closed, smile just enough to feel the muscles around your cheek move upward. This will ensure a more sophisticated smile without an over the top “cheese” and avoiding the risk of having “deer in the headlight eyes”. Smiling with your eyes will also accentuate your face without stretching to give wrinkles, as in photos where your mouth and teeth are wide open for the shot.

Hope these tips come in handy when you’re on vacation taking casual photos with family and friends, at a Hollywood premiere, ball at the Met or even at an upcoming MyScoop event!"

Flickr.com/awhesterphotography

Birmingham.myscoop.us

NYFW FW11 PART II. - PROENZA, RAG&BONE, & THOM BROWNE.

2011-02-18T00:20:00.017-06:00

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK FW11.

PROENZA SCHOULER.

Another technicolor dream by Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez. The FW 2011 presentation showed very bold colors and tribal like prints which the boys told the Times were all produced on a computer. Incorporating black into every look and squared and triangle lines meeting to form...forms on almost every look is very interesting and appealing. Very native in color and form, but also very fitting and flattering. The collection is not afraid of color and statement prints. The fit of the dresses is very attractive with a cross over shoulder to waist fit. The pieces that stand out to me are the velvet tribal printed pants in Looks 23 and 25. The fit is a drop crotch harem fit...AMAZING. Also, the mustard colored waxy like leather trench in Look 19 is perfect. It brings a perfect color to the all black look and is what I hope, a talked about piece and used in numerous editorials next Fall. The Proenza girls are going Native, but not too native... The boys have done it again keeping their aesthetic close and giving a new take to the fashion gone wild look. PERFECT.

RAG & BONE.

Fur varsity jackets, leather kilts, plaid, and STRUCTURED, STRUCTURED, STRUCTURED! Royal-electric like blue and orange, (two of FW11 big color trends) used full on in some looks which gives the last few looks a uniformity to the patterns in the first looks that are more layered. Two interesting aspects to the collection that caught my eye were the Y-lined knee-high socks/half-legging hybrid and the quilted leg-warmer like covers that add to the uniform effect in way of resembling shin guards or knee-pads...fashion shin-guards, if you will. British designers David Neville and Marcus Wainwright give their FW11 a modern collegiate like feel without being too literal. I wish I could get my hands on one of the silver-maroon fur-chested-leather-sleeved varsity jackets in Look 4. AMAZING.

THOM BROWNE.

With Thom Browne's first collection as a Womenswear designer was of course going to accent what he does best. Simple, yet interesting pieces with his signature Americana like red-white-and-blue lines. Very theatrical shapes with an egg-oval waist in coats and oversized eyelashes on every model gives the models female quality since the looks are more androgynous charged rather than leading towards male or female. Thick and luxurious fabrics are covering every look, and the only skin on the models showing is their face and arms. Plaid, wool, and fur...perfect for a fall wardrobe, and what I find perfect about Thom Browne from his previous Menswear and showing now in his Womenswear is that even though the pieces are bigger and stand out more, they are still practical and VERY well made. Where as most people might not see a circle or oval pattern from head to toe flattering, well look again. FW11 Thom Browne. (first collection as a Womenswear designer.) 5 STARS.

Photo credit to STYLE.com & ELLE.com

NYFW FW11 PART I. - MARC, RODARTE, & WANG

2011-02-16T17:26:00.021-06:00

NEW YORK FASHION WEEK FW11

MARC JACOBS.

The show started on time and with Marilyn Manson blaring. A quilted cylinder and glass floored runway was the scene for the Fall Winter 2011 show. 40's silhouettes and polka-dot hosiery. Small side hats throughout the looks mostly matching the top, bottom, or entire look all together. (A Marc trademark now known to the fashion world,...incorporating hats with looks) Very bold and minimalistic in color, and every piece has a very structured look. Long skirts and high neck lines. The ruffling around the neck gave a lot of the looks a modern Victorian feel if that's even possible. Shoes- the boot-wedge combo is an interesting off set to the very structured patterns and soft fabrics. Marc is always changing and everyone is always watching to see what he does next...and sending out 63 perfectly tailored looks that all have a theme throughout is why Marc Jacobs will continue to stay a front runner in this business.

RODARTE.

With The Wizard of Oz's Wicked Witch of the West, 'Garland's Ruby Slippers' alongside twisters and wheat fields on their FW mood board...(which I got a glance of on Tumblr before the show yesterday) I really did not know what to expect. A full look in ruby and a flowing wheat field print on the bottom hem of the skirt is not what I expected, but I have to say it was a refreshing collection all together. If someone wanted to look sexy on the country side and still stay in theme then this collection would be perfect. The Mulleavy sisters have a way with knits and colors...the sweaters in the collection have a block of color all adding a side to shape a square. The natural waist accent is present in most of the more structured looks giving a flattering shape to the pieces. The colors are very calming and neutral, but also very eye-catching with a popping/bright primary red and lilac. Personally, the most intriguing concept of this collection is how the shape of the square is used to frame the figure and complete the pattern of some entire looks.

ALEXANDER WANG.

Fur rimmed sunglasses and quilted cape coats. Alexander Wang is one of those designers who highlights soft and hard materials in his looks. There is an attitude in his work that so interesting...it has to be based on the shape and material because the entire collection consists of mostly black, nude, and gray. Pops of metallics in the shoes and accessories give a playfulness to the all neutral look. My favorite pieces are the glitter-ized pants paired with a fur lined collared jacket and shrunken sweater underneath.-Also, a sleeveless tuxedo-style shirt-with bib under the sheer paired with leather patched black pants with zipper pockets from waist to knee. The accent of the Alexander Wang girl who has sex appeal and also a somewhat boyish taste in style is definitely praised in this collection with sex appeal and practicality all in one. Oh, and did I mention the furry pumps? Enough said. Genius.

Photo credit to : STYLE.com & ELLE.com

ONE YEAR TODAY...

2011-02-11T11:45:00.003-06:00

R.I.P. LEE ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

Today marks ONE YEAR since the Death of Designer and Visual Artist, Alexander McQueen.

This is My Ode, IN MEMORIAM to him.

I wrote this last semester in my Poetry Tour. It was my first assignment.

:NAMED AFTER 'PARADISE LOST' AND A PLAY OFF OF OLSON'S 'PACIFIC LAMENT'

(I wanted to literally type it on my typewriter, and I'm not the best at it yet so bear with me when it comes to mis-types.) Sorry :(

Hope you Enjoy.

You truly were a genius and there is 'no one who can cross that line' again.

(click Poem (below) to enlarge)

Art of Androgyny

2011-02-02T11:47:00.013-06:00

Androgyny : (an.drodg.a-knee) -

simply means having the physical or natural characteristics

of both a male and a female.

(ALSO: the word androgyny is derived from the Greek words,

'andros' meaning man, and 'gyne' meaning woman.) WEBSTER

Fashion is all about form and how a vision is expressed from the artist's/designer's mind and translating it onto their canvas or in most cases their muse or model. In the real world there seems to be a pretty defined line between what is appropriate for the male and female sexes to wear and be 'expected' to wear to fit the social norms.

Over time this art form has been accepted more and more and well understood in the artistic community and those in the world of fashion. The appeal behind this interesting idea is based on the art of beauty and marketing. By using a form that can be viewed as both male and female it is more likely to be drawn to by more of those who see it other than eliminating the gender line. In 2010 and into 2011, two have taken the runway and ad campaign world by storm, House of Givenchy transsexual model, Lea T, and very pretty boy, Andrej Pejic.

Lea T was featured in Givenchy's FW10 ad campaign and has become a muse like for Riccardo Tisci the past few seasons. Andrej Pejic more recently walked in Jean Paul Gaultier's Couture show and in his Menswear FW11, (both in heels)! He also is in the SS11 Marc by Marc Jacobs & Jean Paul Gaultier SS11 ad campaigns.

Lea T in GIVENCHY's FW 10 ad campaign.

(L to R) Andrej Pejic finale-ing out the JPG FW 11 Menswear show with JPG himself - Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture Spring 11.

(Top to bottom : Andrej appearing in JPG SS11 ad campaign, Andrej again in Marc by Marc Jacobs SS11 ad campaign.)

The androgynous look is so different and hard to forget that it has become iconic over time and has brought some models into the mainstream light and famous because of their intriguing and gender bending look. Such as Cole Mohr, who Marc Jacobs snagged to wear some dresses for his FW08 ad campaign or Agyness Deyn, who can pull off just about anything from a dress to a suit - even channel Michael Jackson in Harper's Bazaar's Sept 09 issue.

Cole Mohr in Marc by Marc Jacobs FW08 ad campaign in drag.

Agyness Deyn in Harper's Bazaar Sept. 09 tribute to the King of Pop in both masculine and feminine looks just like Michael Jackson himself who was a lover of the marching band/military jacket that has made its mark on Menswear and Womenswear over time.

Probably the most recognizable model who became a large influence on androgyny in the industry is Linda Evangelista, who is still modeling ever since she started in 1978. A favorite of the 1990's Chanel shows and campaigns of Karl Lagerfeld and even during his years at Chloe'. Evangelista brought her short hairstyle to womenswear and added a powerful and strong hold onto the top spot during her prime. She gave herself an edge with that bob and now it is all over the fashion world!

Linda Evangelista in 1990's Chloe and Chanel ad campaigns under while Chloe was still under the reign of KLag and Chanel was very on 90's trend electric and Cher Horowitz-like.

Is it too soon for a Michael Vick joke?! - A LOOK AT MENSWEAR FW11

2011-01-26T19:29:00.011-06:00

MENSWEAR FALL 2011

"Ten Hut!"

"Let there be light?"

"Who Let the Dogs out?

Bruce Weber for YSL Menswear F11

Gaga for MUGLER Menswear F11

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

The collection was full of military trends with structure and fit, but also in color. Deep red, white, and black. Also ending with some nice suits, (not shown) which looked like they had actual tailoring done to them. Is Sarah Burton reworking the McQueen suit from 'boxy' to 'fitting'? Either way, a nice change that might do very well for the Menswear business of McQueen. The McQueen abstract textured prints are still working their way into Burton's so far collections, and I'm sure that is exciting to see for all of the followers of the McQueen brand name.

JIL SANDER

Am I going to have to wear color next Fall? I sure hope so if I could make the pops of color like the looks form this show did. Color blocking at its best. Very simple in fit and color with most all looks including black or white pants, but also a splash of a full-on Salmon suit. The textures of the simple shirts and jackets are a nice touch.
DOLCE & GABBANA

If you know me then you know I love it when fashion and American culture "Americana", pop culture or Iconic figures come together. Hi, Warhol. Bringing 'Coca-Cola' and MICKEY together with a twist to give a modern twist on the hipster American look is genius. The look is smart for style and the brand itself because it gives the look no age...it is relatable to all those who Dolce and Gabbana's market tends to relate to. Can you tell I want that 'Coca-Cola' sweater??

GIVENCHY

WOOF!

Is it too soon for a Michael Vick joke?? Okay...I'm kidding, but not really. Leather, lettermans, fur, plaid, knee-high-high-tops, and even a dog fight. The Letterman trend is here to stay. The look is very relaxed in fit, but full of attitude in the styling. The thing I love about Riccardo Tisci is that the extremities of his collections whether it is the use of color or an excessive amount of a print such as the FULL-ON leopard print (Spring 2011) or the rottweiler dog fight, it adds character and power. Isn't that what fashion is all about? -Having fun with your personal style?

Bruce Weber shot the Yves Saint Laurent Menswear F11 short film. I mean, what's better than watching a show...watching a short film with vision, a script, director of photography, and nude male models dancing to Marvin Gaye, of course!

Ain't Nothin' Like the Real Thing | Bruce Weber for YSL from VGL Men on Vimeo.

Lady Gaga featured her remix from her upcoming album 'Born This Way' for the Thierry Mugler Menswear F11 & Nicola Formichetti's first Menswear show ever.

The short film was released the day after the show on the Mugler website.

The video is an artistic dark dream...full of raw and natural anatomical theme, oh yeah, and head to toe tattoos.

MUGLER Fall/Winter 2011-12 from DEPESHA on Vimeo.

ALL photos from GQ.com

UPDATED on JANUARY 28, 2011.

- PLEASE TELL ME KARL DIDN'T PAY FOR THIS...

BAPTISTE GIABICONI'S NEW MUSIC VIDEO FOR HIS SONG 'SHOWTIME' (=/)

Kristen Stewart. Proenza SS11 Technicolor Dream in Feb 2011's VOGUE

2011-01-18T00:27:00.005-06:00

KRISTEN STEWART covers VOGUE's FEBRUARY 2011

in SS11 PROENZA SCHOULER.

The editorial, shot by Mario Testino, is also complete with all looks from the SS11 Collection and even features the Proenza boys, Jack and Lazaro themselves.

Kristen has attitude that makes the Proenza tom-boy-naughty-'schoul' girl gone surfer

a reality with this spread.

When I first saw the cover leak, I thought, if she's wearing Proenza...will they be featured?? -because I was reminded of Kate Bosworth's February 2008 cover and spread where they were also featured with the cover girl. Bosworth has become a Proenza house name.

-We can only help for the same for 'KStew' (a quote I thought I would never see...(on VOGUE.com when referring to Stewart).

The editorial also covers Stewart talking about Twilight, 'RPatz', her upcoming role as a teenage lap-dancer, and even Jenny Lewis.

VOGUE | VOGUE.com

MINIMALISM x OVER THE TOP. GOLDEN GLOBES 2011.

2011-01-17T17:44:00.011-06:00

THE GOLDEN GLOBES 2011

MINIMALISM VS. OVER THE TOP

OLIVIA WILDE in MARCHESA. -Marchesa is one of those houses that has that star-studded effect on those who the dress chooses. This happened. Olivia Wilde is already beautiful, and when I saw her in this, I knew it was going to trump every dress I saw after. It looked as if she was levitating down the carpet and it reminds of a star-filled sky.

(-plus I love a Prom/ball sized tulle-d bottom.)

ANNE HATHAWAY in ARMANI PRIVE'. -Anne Hathaway has become a style icon when it comes to her glam appearances at Award shows and her simplistic everyday style. This Armani look complimented both of those sides. From neck to toe covered in rosy champagne beads, she looks has that over-the-top Old Hollywood look.

The open back is my favorite, and the fit is so flattering on her that it looks effortless.

EMMA STONE in CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION. -From a deep red head with a humor and look like no other to a tan blonde red carpet bombshell. The peachy minimal short-sleeve look is PERFECT. The fit is perfect, the color is perfect,...even the hair is perfect. Emma Stone has made her mark as a beautiful young woman.

LEIGHTON MEESTER in BURBERRY. -Classic. Immediately I'm drawn to the shoulders, waist, and slit at the knee. Best known for taking chances with her look, she made a great choice with a classic pattern that fits her without a flaw.

JANUARY JONES in VERSACE. -As the new SS11 Versace campaign spokesmodel, and always looking stunning while doing it, why would she not choose Versace? Full of sex appeal and on trend red, January knows how to stand out without going too far. Channeling Jayne Mansfield, she looks breath-taking and is continuing to prove herself as a red carpet headliner.

MICHELLE WILLIAMS in VALENTINO. -Michelle's look was a favorite of mine. Not necessarily by itself, but on her because it is very much like her style which the Fashion world has come to love. Channeling Mia Farrow in 'Gatsby', the head to toe daises and frill would be perfect for a modern Daisy Buchanan. She even said it was not especially made for her, but with all of the details and adjustments made it might has well been.

HALLE BERRY in NINA RICCI. -I love looks with any sheer black involved and the double slit in front revealing her legs adds to the "it" factor. Halle Berry looks ageless in this and she turned a black dress into a BLACK DRESS that has to be watched.

It fits her perfectly and shows just enough skin.

As much I love watching the red carpet and award shows for the looks throughout...I still get sort of weirded out when I see my favorite grungy male actors who usually have amazing sex-hair get all dressed up.

Kabuki Blackface for V Magazine and SS11 Punk Trend. O.K. by Me!

2011-01-12T14:44:00.008-06:00

NICKI MINAJ covers V's January 2011 'Discovery Issue'

and her spread features pieces from the Spring 2011

Collections of Versace, Balmain, and Givenchy.

Being a HUGE BlackFace supporter myself, I could not help

but to post this. In FULL ON KABUKI make-up, she does her part to keep the artistic

black & white/Kabuki performer face alive. Thank You Nicki.

VMAGAZINE.com

ROONEY MARA covers W's February 2011 'Movie Issue' where stars of 2010 such as Natalie Portman, James Franco (!!!), & Mila Kunis are also interviewed inside. Mara is transformed into her highly anticipated and 2011 American portrayal of 'THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGON TATTOO's', 'Lisbeth Salander'. Styled out in Spring 11 Burberry and SS11 Punk trend style & also with an incognito black bob, Mara is playing up the punk very well.

ALL HAIL STEFANO!

WMagazine.com

'The Andrew Network'

2011-01-11T15:03:00.001-06:00

Andrew Garfield covers DETAILS' February 2011 cover....whether it's for his performance in blockbuster of 2010, 'The Social Network' or because he has taken the reigns as the next 'action-hero' as the new 'Spider-Man'. I feel like I should have added him to one of my 2010 Obsession posts because ever since I saw him in 'Imaginarium of Doctor Parnanssus' in January 2010, I have been a fan.

Starring alongside all of this year's leading ladies from Lily Cole, Carey Mulligan, Keira Knightley, and now Emma Stone in 'Spider-Man' and being the face of 'Band of Outsiders' Fall 2010 Look Book...I am ready for a full-on-action-packed 2011 of Andrew Garfield.

SPRING 2011 StopTalking Playlist

2011-01-07T12:36:00.008-06:00

'In Love, Not Limbo' is a very feel good song, not that many lyrics, but a hypnotizing beat for relaxing. I came across it in September or October 2010, and it has stuck with me since.

Sleigh Bells is a band that seems to have huge potential. 'Infinity Guitars' was the first song I heard from the band around my 21st birthday LAST November, but it is so loud and obnoxious and I love how it makes me feel. The sound of an overloaded amp and an empowering female lead spitting words out like poetry makes me want to throw myself around while having the power to knock out predators as they come along.

Rihanna's 'Only Girl' is one of those songs that I don't think I could ever get tired of. It may seem stereotypical and cliche, but it is sort like a modern cross between Diana Ross' play with woman empowered lyrics and electro-hip-POP sound that makes it so good.

Plus, the video is sick.

Pretty Lights is an obsession that I have come across in the late Fall of 2010, but I am loving every bit of their cd. Based on beats and rhythms, "Glowing in the Darkest Night" flows from slow to fast 5 to 7 minutes tracks that sound like one ultra long mesmerizing mixtape that flows together.

Enough said.

I found this Mash-up of Moxie Black and Death Cab in 'Closer' on a mix-tape this past October, and it has stuck with me every since. The use of the slower beats that can trigger emotions and a more tough voice play are a different but definitely interesting mix that I can leave on in my car and get lost in.

CONTAGIOUS. Katy Perry's 'Teenage Dream' "We can dance, un-til we diiiie." Those words have made me completely fall in love with this song and forget how cheesy the song is. Not to mention the song is a full on anthem for "going all the way" and losing the V card.

P.S., just try watching the music video without your mouth being wide open because of all the hotness you experience.

2010. A Year in Photos.

2011-01-06T16:12:00.002-06:00

Flickr.com/Awhesterphotography

Obsessions of 2010. PART II.

2011-01-04T13:58:00.009-06:00

Emma Stone. House Bunny, Superbad, ZombieLand,...and then Easy A. (!!!) Red heads never looked so good or sounded so sexy until she came along. A classic look and an improvised humor that comes so natural she has become the 'It" girl for my 2010. She hosted SNL and even got her own Digital short written by Andy Samberg himself!

Sarah Burton's first (Spring 2011) collection under McQueen. Elegant, with all the right effect and without the theatrics of Alexander McQueen, which Burton said she wanted to keep out of it because that was his to keep. Flowing prints, gold woven wheat-grass corsets, and leather laser-cute leaf dresses gave the closure and breath of fresh air McQueen's followers needed to go on.

The Death of Lee Alexander McQueen. This was not exactly an obsession of mine, but it was a major part of my 2010. In February 2010, the fashion world and world alike as a whole lost a man with a mind on a creative roller coaster with no speed-limit. He inspired me for my first piece in my Poetry Tour class of Fall 2010 and my creative decisions since his passing as well.

Now not a day goes by that I don't think "What would McQueen do?"

Prada Spring 2011. Baroque, Baroque, Baroque!!! Made me feel like I was looking at tops with Velvet Underground/Warhol inspired collages all over and barrels of monkeys around the neckline. Spring fashion is all about color and being able to use the clothing to express the season and it did just that. It brought the fun and color back with technicolor fur tails and bright woven bags to excite fashion insiders from the slump of the past's recession-depression.

Florence Welch. aka. Florence and the Machine. Florence has become an icon by her name alone. The drummer of her own beat in her music and fashion has made her a household name in 2010. Another fiery red head that has gotten my creative juices pumping through the year. Lyrics flowing like poems with punches of love and emotion she has a voice physically and within her wordplay that is like no other. A powerful woman who knows what she wants in her music and classic fashion choices is exactly what I loved seeing from her in 2010.

The realization from EVERYONE ELSE that I've been telling since I saw him, that Kanye West is in fact an asshole. Taylor Swift, VMA's, granted I don't enjoy Taylor Swift's choice of music style and methods of working out her repressed post-break-up anger through song, she did not deserve a public and very barbaric interruption at the 2009 VMA's. Wast came out with his "Runaway" as an "apology" and a re-introduction to himself with his new album "My Beautiful Dark Twisted Fantasy", which I do enjoy the introduction piece and "Monster" but that is all. Thank you, (rest of the world) for finally agreeing with me on this in 2010.

Tom Ford's return to Womenswear. Bringing sexy back. It really never left because Tom Ford never left, with his Menswear and scandalous Eyewear ad campaigns to his amazing artistic and dramatic film, A Single Man, Tom Ford proved that he is always relevant. I love the sexiness that exudes from every thing this man touches from his clothing on men and women and his ads that push the limit to the everyday person. Not afraid of an exposed nipple and showing a little too much skin. Natural sex appeal flows through his work and this year during his private viewing of his highly anticipated Spring 2011 collection he proved that he is at the top.

Obsessions of 2010. PART I.

2011-01-02T19:18:00.008-06:00

BYE 2010. HELLO 2011.

Here are some of my Obsessions from this past year,

...or at least the ones I can remember right now anyway.

James Franco's Art Exhibit in NY's AIR exhibit. : The Dangerous Book Four Boys was intriguing, (sometimes scary) from the voices I heard before seeing where they were coming from, but amazing work that I am happy I got to see and experience in person during my first visit to NY in this past Summer of 2010.

& really...who am I kidding? James Franco, in general (Hospital, if you will...ha, ha, ha)...he has become the prince in the acting world that I always knew he could become and even more. Actor, Artist, Director, Soap Star, Author, and Student all accomplished in one year...

while still achieving looking ridiculously good looking at the same time.

(Left to right Photo by: Joshua Barnes, Taken intended for a header for StopTalking in February 2010 I also submitted the photo to Refinery29.com to win a contest including dinner with (right) Andrew Mukamal in July 2010. Andrew chose my photo and made my 2010. Welcomed to Barney's Saturday afternoon shopping and NY high-rise roof watching, meeting Andrew was the highlight of my year.

Proenza Schouler FW 2010: Made me realize I was "born 2 b fly" and that I too rock sheer black button-downs and letterman jackets and still look relevant. And this also began my new found obsession with Tati Cotliar.

Taylor Lautner- That boy is a monster, and I become a 13 year old werewolf lusting girl

whenever I see him with his very own GQ cover.

The September Issue, even just a small 1hour and 20 some-odd minute documentary about the publication of 2007's September issue makes me want to strive to become a part of the fashion journalism world.

The NEW W: under reign of Stefano Tonchi. I love the 360 he has taken on W as a fashion magazine of the 2000's and beyond editorial wise and pushing the line when it comes to the breaking the norm. I can now enjoy my favorite designers scattered through the pages of a very sophisticated fashion magazine where melted Barbie heads and 5 page editorial spreads of the House of Givenchy can be together in harmony for only $4.99!

The revival of excessive use of Leopard print (!!!) : GIVENCHY SS11 and beyond...leopard is here to stay, and hopefully as a neutral before long.

(Gas masks included.)

PUNK REVIVAL --- Balmain SS11 and Balenciaga SS11, ripped, (and held together just enough by safety-pins) studded, burnt, printed, slick back hairstyles so we can be prepared to give 2011 the kick in the face it needs if things get out hand right before the

"2012 Armageddon."

Paging Betty Draper to the Runway...

2010-12-20T16:56:00.007-06:00

I can't believe it has taken me this long to get into AMC's Mad Men,

but now that I have started watching,

(beginning Season One right after Black Friday and currently starting Season Four)

...I'm HOOKED.

Betty Draper has got to be one of my favorite female lead characters in television now. Not only does January Jones (-future Versace Spring11 Ad Campaign model) portray the 60's depressed housewife perfectly, she started bring back the 60's "open umbrella under the dress" look way before this past Fall season when it was shown again Paris & Milan with Louis Vuitton and Prada.

Slim waists, billowing bottoms and prints, prints, prints...

PRADA, Fall 2010

Louis Vuitton, Fall 2010

That is the other reason I am posting this...it is so sad to me that I am just now picking up on this trend besides the fact I don't know how many times I have passed the ads this season in about 20 fashion editorial magazines.

PRADA Fall 2010 Campaign

Louis Vuitton Fall 2010 Campaign

SO, here it is. The post that I should have posted in September.

The 60's are here for Fall, and now, 70's for Spring!

The 70's revival is so exciting. All about exhilarating colors and prints. (Reds, oranges, deep purples, neons, and animal prints ---LEOPARD), but that post will come later! Enjoy, my post I am ashamed to be posting in late December just as Fall is coming to a close, but I feel is too good to not post!

Happy Holidays!

Black Swan x RODARTE

2010-12-18T10:50:00.008-06:00

Black Swan starring Natalie Portman and Mila Kunis, and also a brief appearance by Winona Ryder (and a VERY brief cameo by Sebastian Stan) has already been nominated for 4 Golden Globes, and the release to the public was only yesterday. The psychological thriller directed by Darren Aronofsky (Requiem for a Dream, Pi) turns, the ABC (American Ballet Company) into a madhouse when the head ballerina is let go and the company's director has a plan to present a fresh face, "Nina", (Portman) to play the infamous role of Swan Queen in his modern version of 'Swan Lake'. I wanted to see the film because it looked amazing and creepy good by way of the juxtaposition of the main stage at Lincoln Center and the mentally unstable mind of Nina.

(Winona Ryder, "Beth")

(White Swan transformation, Black Swan)

(Black and White Swan sketches by Kate Mulleavy)

(Portman, (in what looks like a Rodarte open-knit sweater tank)

(Portman and Rodarte)

(Natalie Portman in Rodarte)

Although, I'm not going to lie, I had my doubts, but my first real kick-start to the theater was when I heard that Rodarte sisters, Kate and Laura Mulleavy were designing the costumes for the film. No surprise, they're amazing, and I'm pretty sure the costumes included all the way down to the arm warmers and even the knitted tank (with the classic Rodarte open knit Alpaca sweater detail) that Natalie Portman is wearing when she first begins to discover her inner "black" self, if I may. Portman has worn Rodarte on many occasions so it didn't take much to transform her into the straight from the runway form she has already.

Black Swan - 3 STARS.

Body Control (Leighton for Missoni) and Au Revoir Carine!

2010-12-17T11:45:00.004-06:00

Leighton Meester has been named Missoni's ad campaign model that will run within the next year! All I can imagine is flowing dark brown extensions in amazing classic Missoni prints.

Blake for Chanel and now Leighton for Missoni!!! Ooh La La...XOXO, Fashion Insiders.

EPIC Editor of French Vogue, who brought exposed nipples and artistic black face back to the editorial world, Carine Roitfeld, has announced her resignation from her 10 year reign at the magazine today. Now, where will I get my nipple and black face fix...Anna?

Au Revoir Carine!

Blonde Bombshells for Spring!

2010-12-09T12:07:00.005-06:00

First off, I'd like to start by apologizing for my absence for almost an ENTIRE MONTH from StopTalking. I really can't pinpoint a concrete reason other than a lack of news I found worthy of posting or just laziness. Sorry either way! :(

Secondly, THIS. (below)

Yeah, just James being himself, hitting on himself in a mirror. He's just that good.

And now I'll spit out some news I guess...

-Blake Lively is Chanel S11 Handbag Ad Campaign's lucky lady! :) But is it any surprise? I think I recall reading an article where Karl said he "adored" her and I knew something had to happen. Plus all the Paris Haute Couture BFF time with Anna this past summer...

& I've recently become obsessed with MAD MEN, so of course it would only become a matter of time that I become obsessed with January Jones and her

House of Versace-muse-flawlessness.

Donatella has named January the Model for the Versace S11 Ad campaign (!!!YAY!!!)...also not groundbreaking since Donatella and January are attached at the hip and January has been draped in Versace everywhere! Who can forget the already infamous blue Emmy gown. She and Blake both such timeless looks. I guess blonde is in for Spring...also, not a surprise.

UPDATE: (December 18 --- The first images of the campaign have been released. (below).)

ENJOY!

The Return of Tom Ford.

2010-11-15T12:38:00.004-06:00

THE RETURN OF TOM FORD

TOM FORD delighted Gucci and Yves Saint Laurent in the 90's and 00's with appreciation for the female body with Womenswear until he started his creation of TOM FORD for Menswear in 2004 right after stepping down as Creative Director for Gucci. Now he's back to bringing the "sex". Ford showed his first Womenswear collection at a very private viewing this past Spring Fashion Week in September where no photography was allowed. Somehow the Times still managed to grab some shots and even some camera phones got shots, (where reportedly Daphne Guinness and Beyonce had modeled looks), but nothing has truly been revealed until now. Ford said that he would wait until December to reveal, so does that mean December 2010 VOGUE? Apparently. Here's the spread, (Well, the leaked photos from September first, then the VOGUE spread on the bottom). And yes, he did bring the "sex".

(photo credit: NYTimes)

(photo credit: VOGUE.com)

Go to Vogue.com for more larger HQ photos!

Random Post I

2010-11-03T14:12:00.002-05:00

1. Emma Stone hosted SNL!

-Digital Short: "I Broke my Arm"

2. I found a Daria obsessed tumblr. Now I can laugh 24/7.

Enough said.

3. Robert Longo x F10 Bottega Veneta ads.

-Some of Longo's "Untitled : in the City" works showed up at the BMA so I've been researching how much art is in fashion now. It's exciting.

4. Speaking of, this Jackson Pollock painting. Reminds me a lot of Proenza x JBrand F10 paint-splattered jeans. So simple, yet complex. I would be fine with either one of his works or the jeans hanging on my wall. Both are just as creative and different.

What is "Scary"?

2010-10-21T00:53:00.011-05:00

So, it's that time of the year most people call Fall, and Halloween is coming up so things are supposed to get a little scary right? Is scary always a bad thing?

I think NOT. Imagination is a piece of life that cannot be forgotten

or most of us would be bored to death with ourselves.

Also, who says Halloween is the only time to play dress up and be someone else?

Where's the fun in that? Why not have fun with life and express yourself

in all ways possible ways that are comfortable to yourself??

I think scary can be interesting and intriguing and most things that are disturbing to others

usually intrigue me. This may say something about me as a person, but, I guess I can't help it.

Halloween is like real life on crack and for those in fashion it can sometimes be a "high".

So embrace it, and Happy Halloween from STOPTALKING! :)

Enjoy these photos I've come across this past month that have been "scary" to me!!

(1990's Anna (SO chic) and a black kitten)

Dazed models

(L to R) Lara Stone taking control, Hypno boy

(A Givenchy possessed Prince Pelayo)

(Birds, lots of birds, Hitchcock)

Carrie

ANNE HATHAWAY | VOGUE NOV 10| GLEE-Q | NOV 2010

2010-10-19T11:29:00.005-05:00

VOGUE

ANNE HATHAWAY

NOVEMBER 2010

THIS, should have been the September cover.

gLee cast: Lea Michele, Dianna Agron, and Cory Monteith Cover GQ, November 2010.

Shot by the always amazing, Terry Richardson, of course. This shoot is sexy, not that I'm surprised. The cast exudes sexual energy, and they all give a playful look into "SEX ED 101".

Enjoy!

Source: VOGUE.com & gLeekindonesia

FALL10 SOUNDTRACK PT1

2010-10-18T20:54:00.003-05:00

SPRING 11 Backstage Highlights

2010-10-13T12:45:00.008-05:00

from DAZED DIGITAL

ALEXANDER WANG

PROENZA SCHOULER

BURBERRY PRORSUM

PRADA

VERSUS | DIOR

LANVIN

MAISON MARTIN MARGIELA

JEAN PAUL GAULTIER

JOHN GALLIANO

CHANEL

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN

LOUIS VUITTON

PHASE I. PT. I of my McQ Homage.

2010-10-09T16:24:00.002-05:00

-much MORE butterflies are needed of course.

-early sketches of the entire look.