I must admit I have always had a bit of a Brit crush. I remember waking in the wee hours of the morning to watch Charles and Diana marry, then Andrew and Fergie and later to watch Diana being laid to rest. I was so captivated by the tradition, the grandeur and the elegance of it all. Recently, as I was working on my current archaeology project also know as "the garage," I discovered a tea cup that my mother gave to me. It was a commemorative piece to celebrate the marriage of Charles and Diana. I smiled. I thought about the hours I would pour over magazines and draw my "someday" princess wedding gown in my notebook. I even tried my hand at drawing a sketch from a photo of Diana on the cover of Ladies Home Journal. Now, William and Kate have sparked another royal crush. This time its hip and young and fresh just like the couple and their bump-to-be. This British invasion has crossed into the design world. We are seeing those traditionally English elements and icons with non-traditional twists from rocker chic to whimsical fabulous.
As I always say the key to pulling this off is to only use one statement item in a room. If you create a "theme-y" looking it will come off as cheap and cluttered. Keep it simple and highlight your focal point. Cherio!
There is something so precious about a lovely little flower girl as she harkens the arrival of the bride. The variety of flower girl dresses have really changed. The mini-me bride is a thing of the past. Today, your littlest attendant has as many style choices as your maids and some of them are absolutely fantastic. They are cute, full of personality and comfortable enough for a kid to wear all day. Here are my top picks for summer weddings.
One of my favorite breaks from the winter blahs is NYFW (New York Fashion Week) although in fashion speak spring shows mean fall fashions...it is still a kick to the creative juices to see all the fresh new creations. Then I look in my closet and wallet with disappointment and crawl back in my flannel pants. Not anymore! It seems that those same high-end designers are sharing their talents with us fashion voyeurs on a budget. No more cheap knock-offs. Instead, get the real thing cheap. We have seen the pop-up shops at Target with Prabal Gurung and the long term collaborations with Vera Wang and Kohl's. These co-ops are going to a whole new level. This spring retailers everywhere are pairing up with designers, many who have never been in the mainstream retail market, to bring us fabulous fashion mostly under $100 price point. (squeal.)
Kate Young for Target
Kate Young for Target - One of the pioneers of this marketing strategy, Target is staying ahead of the game by launching the first clothing line by celebrity red carpet stylist, Kate Young. "Kate Young for Target reflects my aesthetic for edgy, sophisticated style and is designed to offer items that are versatile, modern and ideal for special occasion dressing." according to harpersbazaar.com. Kate's pieces will launch in stores on April 14.
Pearl by Georgina Chapman for JCP - If you are a fashion follower then you know the fashion house of Marchesa. Georgina Chapman has created a line of glamorous and flirty cocktail dresses and separates that are true to the labels aesthetic for get this...JCPenny! These pieces are perfect if you are heading to prom, attending a wedding or any occasion to make an entrance. (Love these for possible engagement photo wardrobe or rehearsal dinner.)
Derek Lam for Kohls
Derek Lam for Kohl's - Kohl's DesignNation is growing with its second collaboration. This time its designer, Derek Lam. The beach to street looks are inspired by Rio de Janeiro. "I really love the city. The people are wonderful and the setting is amazing," said Lam. The vibe is obvious in his collection. It just looks so comfy and fun!
Milly for Banana Republic - One Kate Middleton's favorite designers Michelle Smith of Milly is taking her first steps into menswear with her spring line for Banana Republic. According to WWD, a rep from BR says the guys pieces will have "a more muted palette" and "scaled down prints." Its not just for the fellas, the Milly designer includes her signature prints in the ladies line. The entire line is Hamptons inspired and set to launch in late April or May. Did I mention its Duchess approved? Well, kinda.
DVF for Gap Kids and Baby Gap - I don't like to overuse the word "icon" but it is completely appropriate when it comes to Diane von Furstenburg. She is back for a second launch of her designs for Gap in April. Although this is not a new collaboration, it definitely bears repeating. After all, you are never too young for a DVF wrap dress! If I could squeeze into one, I would.
Grab those spring fashion mags and start revamping your closets. Time to make room for all the new wardrobe additions! Goodbye flannel pants, see you next winter. Ta!
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