Fashion Exhibit: The Art From of the Classic French Couture

Here's just a few moments of French couture displayed recently at the Hotel de Ville, showing once again that Paris is the capital of fashion.  Sheer beauty, extraordinary details and historic significance is part of what this exhibit is all about. The history of Paris Fashion is really more than luxury goods; everyone  thinks Paris as a giant luxury mall but this obscures what is important about this city and its fashion history. The personalities in fashion, the creators, are really what is so unique about Paris. The creators, along with the individuals who are sewing and beading each piece,  though are long gone, are still with us through the sheer beauty, passion and vision of these designs.

Alas, the exhibit is ending but many of us are eagerly awaiting the opening of the Paris Fashion Museum, closed in 2011 for re-construction.


Pictured here are:  Jean Patou, Vionnet, Carven

I am dreaming of Shoes: Alejandro Ingelmo Spring 2013

Shoes are like dreams.  They come in many colors and shapes, and you can see a different one every day.  But some of them stay with you, and linger in  your mind.  That's how I felt when I met Alejandro, in person, a shoe designer from New York.

He is a designer with a fresh feminine vision. The shoes are beautifully constructed in Italy and surprise, no platforms.  This is what Alejandro explained to me, that was critical for his designs.  He felt that the feminine and ladylike shoe was about a sculptured heel, elegant foot that is part of a shorter and more pointed toe.  Very classic shapes that are highlighted by the boomerang shape, an inspiration for the designer for this season. Alejandro is dedicated to the feminine and flirty woman, and these shoes express his vision.
I tried on the shoes, and they were very comfortable, the angle support, the curve of the heel were easy to walk in for that special occasion dress or just with your jeans or if you like the skinny rocker leather legging, there was really no limit as the shoes work with just about anything. Here in Southern California, you could wear these pumps poolside with your designer swimsuit.
Of course, the leathers are scrumptious, with suedes that melt like butter, and the stitching is literally, flawless. I took a photo of the pump from several angles, and they look beautiful from the back as well as the front, the true test for a good shoe designer.  He has thought of everything, so just slip them on go.  The only warning I have for you, is make sure you're accompanied by a body guard. These shoes are positively dangerous.   Here are the photos of my favorites, and like all beautiful dreams, I promise these will stay with you.

The website for the designer is very easy to shop on and gives you a more complete display of his beautiful collections.

http://www.alejandroingelmo.com/

Thierry Mugler: An Iconic House Rises Again.

The issue with Thierry Mugler, is always that the clothes were attached to an era. The 1980s, to be exact.  But a fresh new look and revitalization by
the recent infusion of Nicola Formichetti, and his creative direction,  was a great help in making the brand fresh again.  Now that he's moved on, we can only hope that this great direction, will continue with a refined and unique vision that was always Mugler. Tailoring, space-like shapes, and gorgeous Italian fabrics and unique constructions.

Here are a few looks from the upcoming Fall 2013 Collections.

Jewelry for the Many Women you are: Virgin, Saints & Angels

The mysterious wonders of a woman's character, the many things she is from day to day, to the evening, from one age to another. Jewelry that is iconic is not just a Chanel or a Harry Winston diamond, its more than that.  Virgin, Saints and Angels is precious, because it is symbolic and iconic.  The collections are riddled with images, symbols and beauty of the Virgin Mary, and all that entails.  The images of power and birth, death and beauty are combined into jewelry that is statement making and not for the faint of heart. When you wear the jewelry, it becomes part of your identity and at the same time extends your imagery into someplace totally different.  Here are our favorite pieces...but there is more, much more...

Explore yourself, at their website. vsa.com.

Golden Globes: Best & Worst...zzzzz

Best Red Carpet and Worst...from Kate to Lucy and everything in between.  So, now that the awards season has begun, we'll just have to fasten our seatbelts and get ready for a bumpy ride! 

First, let's talk about the best:  Kate Hudson.  Between the sleek stylings and the beautiful golden beaded decor around the neck, and front belt detail; the sexy drop neckline was a flawless look for the Golden Globes.  What makes the perfect Golden Globes Dress?  If you notice the details are simple, the impact great, and the luxury details perfect for camera, then you're on track. Whether its color, fabric, details, or cut, the Red Carpet gown is not the easiest gown to wear in the world, but Kate lately has really learned her lessons. 

Actresses often forget that they're on TV: this is about how a gown will work for a television camera, and those little square boxes in everyone's living rooms.  Some dresses, just don't fit.   Lucy Liu, stunningly incorrect in her large, 18th century gown which was simply too big for television, though the dress for an editorial shoot at the Hotel Crillon in Paris would have been lovely. The pattern, color, but most of all, scale of this dress just didn't work. She'll think twice before she ever leaves her house in a dress that wore her, instead of she wearing it. Great buzz though, but probably the buzz she really didn't want.  

Winners on the carpet this year, were wearing things that were perfect for the roles they play in the film, or television world. The ladies who did well chose something perfect for their characters: the ingenue,  the comic,  the romantic, the sexpot, the socialite, the bookworm, etc.   

Kate, you have won Best Golden Globe, and, deserve your place in Red Carpet History, this was one of your most shining moments.  Enjoy it. 

The do's and don'ts of the Red carpet...that's next time, and we'll spare no expense in bringing you the secrets of success, because hey, we're a high budget operation over here, at Styliste Privee. 

STYLIST PRIVEE

SHOES for DAZE: We just can't stop with the shoes!

Chris Benz:  

Wearing White for the BOHO Casual Girl 

Here's what we liked about the CHRIS BENZ SHOW:  the shoes were casual, chic and made of surfaces and leathers that were not over the top nor dull; they were aged, like our favorite vintage store bargain and paired like you see here; with leggings, roll up pans, and bare legs, or dresses that were layered with a huge variety of sweaters and toppers.  There was just a nice selection of fun things that made his spring collection worth the fun. 

So, here below are the t-straps in white cracked leather with a simple 70s heel. 

These are paired with a fun graphic black and white school satchel and patterned roll up soft pants, with contrast linings. 

These will be a fun way to wear white next spring:  not pure white, but aged, vintage and a bit worn on the surface. 

Chris Benz Spring 2013

New Ways to Wear White

SHOE LOVE: Another amazing SHOE on our Radar

Oh Joy, oh, Rapture, its another IVEY SHOE.  We can post one each day and never get tired of them, they're so totally gorgeous.  

Here's the killer platform we wish we had now, and the orange one for spring 2013.  Can you believe the color of this copper gold leather that is infused with an enamel like surface to make the heel, a totally Cleopatra experience? 

Take a closer look at the gorgeous platform.  Its like a little platform for your perfectly manicured toes...they will be so happy to be there; also notice the gorgeous buckle, and the soft and comfortable ankle strap.  Darling. Sexy. Deco. Dangerous. 

We'll post a few more for you to see, and welcome your thoughts on what to wear with these....

We're waiting for a pair just like you!   If only they were out in stores now, but not yet, we can hope! 

Styliste Privee get's an eyeful of the NEW IVY shoes...seen at SPRING SHOE SUITE...MERCEDES BENZ FASHION WEEK

Shoe Preview: IVEY is the new TORY

These dreamy Spring 2013 Sandals will be just a hint of what's to come from IVEY KIRZHNER.  A hint of Egypt and mystical signs of a future that looks bright for IVEY K.  A talented shoe designer we saw at the Spring Collections. Her colors, details and workmanship are very apparent here in this style that features handmade jewels and studded soles complete with a colorful surface for the foot.  A perfect pedicure is all you need for these great sandals and a linen slack, slinky white jersey wrap dress or bathing suit for the Resort Vacation you'll be taking.  We saw platforms, open toed pumps, and much more we'll be sharing once the new season begins.  We know you'll be as  excited as we are...and yes,  we promise to share. 

STYLISTE PRIVEE

PS: We'll be revealing more of her collection in the next few months as it becomes available in stores. 

EDITORs NOTE:  Please note our policy about accepting product(s) or samples is fully transparent in our blog. 

Birds of a Feather: Canary Hits the Red Carpet Like a Bird on a Car Window

Once Upon a Time, the color Canary was reserved for the brave, the outrageous, the furious and Fashion Forward.  Now, its found its way to the EMMY Red carpet where it was worn by a bevy of beauties...each with a specific look and personal style.  Yet one glaring problem causes a fashion conundrum that can only be described as "Underdressed" where a color of this wattage was chosen.  

Here are the missing links to making these looks truly historic. Even large earrings were absent, though one statement bracelet was in evidence, and the jeweled evening bag, certainly a required piece of fashion equipment is practically snooze-worthy when worn like jewelry. 

  

Important jewelry was absent from these looks. Extraordinary jewelry makes dresses in a color like this much more striking and interesting. Clare Dane, was wearing a great dress for her condition, was lovely but we hungered for an Egyptian Cuff, or extraordinary brooch pinned somewhere, off to the side of her gown or important earrings.  The choker was a very unsuccessful idea, where a larger set of cuffs, or perhaps a pair of earrings that were light and grazed the shoulders would have worked.  In addition, shades of yellow in a shawl, perhaps in ombre design dyed to match for the more bare dresses would have been a chic addition as a "lighter than air" wisp of fabric for the arms. 

Elizabeth Taylor would have been a bit more brave, making no apology when wearing one of her signature colors like brilliant Turquoise, or Yellow showing off her historic jewelry collection to its best advantage.  These gowns were simply lacking all around; the absence of statement jewelry would have made all the difference and put them each one, on the fashion map. 

Note:  Elizabeth Taylor's private Collection Jewelry (above) recently displayed for Auction

Candy for Your Feet: Gucci Fall Collections

Candy for your Feet and something for your arm from Gucci, who continues to ride the sexy beast for Fall 2012.  What girl doesn't need a hot red pump to add to her wardrobe of black (yes, I mean you, girl) so please go to the bank for this one. The bag comes in not only this dyed navy python, but an array of colors and when its on your arm, well, you know, its just plain ARM CANDY. 

STYLIST PRIVEE

Boho Beauties for Spring 2013: Vintage Simple

Chris Benz had an array of BOHO BEAUTIES lined up at the Show to showcase a point of view that was both a vintage spin as well as a visit down memory lane for those of us who remember the 70s thrift shopping.

With a mix of prints that was reminiscent of MIU MIU and those vintage thrift finds, the girls looked boho waif and charming. The spring look was not a uniform or cookie-cutter approach, but highly styled as each girl's own individual look created the wardrobe choices.  Chunky funky shoes, hose or bare legs, coats, or shawls, little sweaters and bias cut dresses all were a charming way of mixing up what was basically an explosion at a thrift store.  This isn't a bad thing, but it is definitely age specific since women over the age of 35  love vintage,  but don't want to compete with their daughters.  The best way to look at this collection was not to take it at face value.  Instead, I found the textures, colors and esprit were what made it interesting, not necessarily the ensembles.  Pieces each had interest, but when shown together were too much, of a good thing.    Color, and patterns were a nice "kick in the pants" for spring, so if you love color, this collection is for you!

A special note should be mentioned that the faces, and natural make up,  hairstyles were charming and will be trendsetters for the season.

Chris Benz, known as the "Prince of Color" see more at: www.chris-benz.com

WALTER: Bright Colors and Pure Shapes for Spring

WALTER, at the MERCEDES BENZ FASHION WEEK SPRING 2012.

TRENDS for Spring 2012:  Saturated Colors and Water Color prints


The Collection for Spring for Walter 2013 was shown in the Studio and Models were dressed in the entire collection, like a silent department store window.  Each wore an amusing 'Skull Deco" set of headphones and moved to the beat of their own private disco. With each look ranging from Walters typical unique textures and mixes to his embrace of pure colors like turquoise, orange, salmon and water color prints.  Sometimes the mixing of color blocked pieces can just end up looking like too much of a good thing. The way to handle this is to take the pieces and break them up with an anchor, of sorts.  A white or black jean, or leather skinny pant. The pieces at Walter are always fun to mix around, and with this collection you can do just that.

We suggest you take on a few pieces and mix them into your things from last year, your lace skirts, your white or black jeans, and you'll be set. Just add the fun platform shoes in bright tones and patent leathers, or a white jean jacket.

Small brightly colored envelope bags in a host of colors were mixed in to make the Look amusing, witty and fun. Nothing serious here, just enjoy the color!


STyLIST PRIVee
Mercedes Benz 2012

Queen of Luxury: Aerin Lauder's Lifestyle Brand Debuts

"Imperfection is beauty, madness is genius and it's better to be absolutely ridiculous than absolutely boring.” 

Marilyn Monroe

Beauty in the eye of the beholder:  Just released by Aerin Lauder in the classic and inimitable style of the Estee Lauder Brand, she's offered up something of a "Branded Extension" of her own busy  yet,  easy elegant lifestyle. If it were all so easy for the rest of us...well, perhaps when we take out these beautiful compacts and lipsticks, we'll feel ever-so-much better.  With carry-all glamour and a selection of color palettes that work for everyone, she's created something that promises ia elegant but useful; you can take that compact out in a restaurant and adjust your lipstick, very Marilyn, with a touch of the upper east side. I am however, rather surprised that there is no "eco-luxe" vibe going on here.   I had the thought that Aerin Lauder, was going to think "outside the box" and try something a bit more brave.  Instead, she's "reinforced" the typical Estee Lauder Product in its conception that is just another part of the main line.

Certainly, her name may be on the product and her "signature" may be here, but the inspiration is entirely her grandmother's. She brings no news to the table in cosmetic design or conception which is a bit disappointing. Her fragrances were a breath of fresh air, and we are fans of the Tuberose, that is always complimented when we wear it.

The modern cases, seen here, seem nice and clean, so that's certainly a promising start. I will look forward to testing the products when they are released.



Styliste Privee










Editor's Note:  We have not received nor have accepted any compensation for this post, nor products. That's how we can give you a real opinion about Beauty, Fashion, Shoes and the Shows. We're even over 21, and, yes, we've seen a few things in our Fashion Lifetime so not much gets past us.  We have no problem with sharing the unvarnished truth about the world of fashion, which is usually quite "varnished." 

We do receive from time to time, beauty press releases and we read them, then throw them out. Some of our photos are from Press sources, and have been designed for editorial publication.  Otherwise, we take our own photos and upload them. 

London News: Backstage Butter

Backstage at the Fall/Winter Collections, Butter was on everyone's fingers: London Butter, that is, the hottest nail color design studio in the world right now.  The nail design studio has struck a chord with fashionistas everywhere and is probably giving the Big Three (CHANEL, DIOR, YSL) a huge headache because they are so popular with the nouvelle style  set. 

With colors that are rich and fall-like, greys, browns, metallics and colors in fused with flecks of gold or silver, they are beyond "future" and seem very now and very wow.  

Here's just some of the colors we love: Dodgy Barnett, Lovely Barnet, Gobsmacked...just a few pictured here will get you out of your neon brights from Spring and right into the new fall season.  

Tweeds, Leathers, furs, metallics, are just some of the inspirations here so get started with your collection that will give you an edge over the rest of the nail colors that still seem so, well, yesterday. 

Here are the backstage catwalks where the BUTTER fingers were seen:

Altuzarra, Kevork, Kaelen, Simone Rocha, JS Lee, Craig Lawrence, Matthew Williamson, Michael van der Ham, and Roland Mouret.

STYLIST PRIVEE

Oh

Paris When it Sizzles: Lingerie and Swimwear Report

When the French gather to celebrate one of their most famous fashion industries, they party like it's 1879. At the historic Rothschild property in Paris' 8th district, the smashing "White and Gold" opening party was a great success with champagne flowing, beneath crystal chandeliers, trays of passed delicacies and the grand park littered with plastic party bubble that bounced all night. The Rothschild property, once a palatial home, now serves as an elegant and ultimate party location.  

The next day, we mingled with buyers from all over the world who shop for lingerie and swimwear from Brazil, Asia, France, Germany, Italy and the U.S. The biggest trends are hot color concepts, vintage inspirations inspired by "Marilyn Monroe" who seemed to be present throughout the show. Swimwear also had a decided "Marilyn" vibe with higher cut bottoms and tops that were styled for generous bust lines. Bikinis from Brazil are always a favorite, and they were shown in a variety of styles ranging from metallics, ethnic prints, hot neons and the tropical color palette that we have come to expect from the world's hottest beaches. The aging population of 35-55 year olds can look forward to sexy one pieces, too.  These have improved over the years, with tummy tightening cuts, bust building tops and even fabrics that "add" collagen to the skin of the wearer. 

The secrets of lingerie, designed and created by the French has a grand tradition, but it had certainly become an industry of mass market companies. But one company will be providing something new, AUBADE, a venerable French name will set up a couture shop in Paris, to reach this very particular customer. As the demand for luxury lingerie catches on,  the idea of a lingerie line that harkens back to  a more "couture" approach is a new trend in the market.  We couldn't end this article without mentioning that there were two distinct companies from England who were also stand-outs at the show:  Lucile, of London, a line that has been taken up by the grand daughter of a famous Lingerie/Couture Designer from the beginning of the 20th century:  Lady Duff Gordan.  For those of you who don't know, her famous "Maison Lucile" was indeed the bespoke lingerie house to the Kings, Queens, and infamous beauties of her day.  With new looks that are based on these historic ladies, the line stands out in this upper luxury category.

Look forward to some exciting new lingerie styles, bathing suits and cover ups that will be inspiring even the most shy of us, to get out and find a beach. 

STYLIST PRIVEE

Postcard from Paris: Fall 2012

Hello to all our readers at Stylist Privee (all of you bohemian shoppers) with over 3,000 page views in the past few fashion seasons, we are going to announce soon our new Editorial Focus for Fall 2012! 

We've just been to Paris and saw the shows, the shoes, the underthings, the shop windows and the places to get things you didn't know existed until now...and we'll also be sharing with you all our secrets to shopping in this gorgeous city. Why confessions, and why bohemian?  

A true bohemian in Paris has great style, finds it in unique places and adds a dash of the artistique to create "C'est Magnifique" and becomes someone truly original.  We can't tell you how to be an original, you'll have to create that for yourself, but we can share the secrets of style only the truly "boho" shoppers know!


Stylist Privee,
"Confessions of a Bohemian Shopper"

Paris, France

Summer Has Begun: Official Stylste Privee Shoe

We can't blame the boho "chicsters" in Paris.  They're all in love with Walter Steiger and can you blame them?  The shoe salon over on the Rue Matignon is  filled with delightful and dangerous shoes just like this one.  Sure, we see the delicate flowers and creamy dreamy leather; but the heels don't fool us. They're pure STEIGER and he's up to his tricks again in offering a shoe that has a look of desperate discomfort. Still, we hear that the Steiger's girls swear by them.

A  uniquely engineered heel is what makes the shoe. The shoes actually lace up like school girl gillies and have an open toe for matching Blue Toe Polish. With cotton bobby sox, a red leather mini and a creme raincoat topper, you'll  have the look of dangerous schoolgirl!  So, welcome Summer and have some fun, as Monsieur Steiger would wish you to!

STYLISTE PRIVEE

A Great British Brand: New Look Required

Aquascutum is a great British Brand...and its now being sold again to another conglomerate who will bring the brand up to its biggest competitor, BURBERRY. 

Watching this transformation over the next few years will be interesting as the brand itself suffers identity, lack of vision, and a pronounced lack of interest from the buyers they need the most:  young, hip, luxury buyers who are buying the history, craftsmanship, luxury materials and don't want to look like their mothers.  The raincoat, the product that re-launched Burberry is a good bet to do the same for Aquascutum. Using digital campaigns will also be critical for them to revive their brand as well.  We'll keep watch and keep you posted as the story continues...

STYLIST PRIVEE

NOTE:  Jaeger-owner Harold Tillman and former Jaeger chief executive Belinda Earl bought luxury British heritage brand Aquascutum from its Japanese owner Renown in 2009.

Vogue Magazine Debut: Netherlands

The New Vogue Issue debuts in the Netherlands.  The design world has always taken its cues from the Northern countries.  Now that VOGUE has arrived there, things will get interesting.  The brand, worldwide in scope keeps its platforms simliar in all markets, but regional languages, features, street culture and news will make this issue a definitive reflection of the Northern European Experience.
The Cover has three lovely looks for spring including a 1950s Dior shape, spring suit and trends in patterns.  Three looks, three ways to look at spring season.

Beautiful!


Styliste Privee

Yellow is the new Pink: Spring Forward...

At the Spring Marni Show, slick surfaces were everywhere and the colors of Spring were mixed with the usual black basics. Fetching rainwear, coveralls, over pieces and whimsical excuses to use patent leather made the show a typical "Marni-lovers" event.  If we could just manufacture a good Hollywood rainstorm, there would be an excuse to wear these fun pieces.  We're usually obsessed with Pink in the spring, but we've discovered this bright, bold YELLOW and it deserves a re-think.  The trend-hounds tell us that YELLOW is the new PINK. We recall wearing this raincoat back in the day, with matching boots, a color coordinated umbrella and a BARBIE lunch box. Some things never change. If you're shy about wearing Marni's eye popping color palette, you can still enjoy the yellow daffodils that are in every 'super marche' near you.  Just put them in water,  have a cup of tea and wait for them to bloom. If you are brave and want to embrace the trend, you can add these bright tones of yellow with a bag, a belt, a shoe, or take to the streets in your yellow slicker with a vintage print umbrella.

By May, everything will be white, taupe, grey, creme, silver, black and you'll really miss that cheerful yellow shade that scared you, back in March.


STYLIST PRIVEE

"Confessions of a Bohemian Shopper"