Your Daily Dose Of Style Caffeine

The Coveteur by Josh Monje

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The Coveteur has been one of my guilty pleasures for quite some time now. Founded by a designer and a stylist, Erin Kleinberg and Stephanie Mark; the Coveteur offers an exclusive peek into the closets of some of fashion's elite. The Coveteur is one of the most innovative blog ideas that I've seen in quite some time. In all honesty, who wouldn't want to see Simone Harouche's Louboutins or Charlotte Ronson's whimsically decorated apartment, adorned with vintage dresses and bags? This is a blog that has proven to be somewhat of a novelty amongst many fashion blogs. The way Jake Rosenberg captures the blog's photos, so intimately, makes one feel as if they are truly a part of something coveted and exclusive. I encourage all our readers to take a look, if you haven't already. I do caution all of you though, the Coveteur is highly addicting and will easily become your new vice. 

Images from : the Coveteur

Fashion News Roundup

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Raf Simons will replace John Galliano at Dior. Former creative director at Jil Sander, Simons is expected to do great things at Dior. We will just have to wait and see. Fashionista

Makeup Guru Michelle Phan is undertaking yet another project, along with other beauty vloggers. FAWN (for all women network) is a youtube channel that will have reviews, tutorials, interviews, and more. The channel launches on April 11th, and will be celebrated with a red carpet premiere streamed live on FAWN’s youtube channel. FAWN

Anne Hathaway said good bye to gorgeous long locks and hello to a short boyish cut for her role in Les Miserables. huffpo

In case you haven’t heard, Kanye West is feuding with PETA, the largest animal rights organization in the world. The controversy itself is based on some lyrics in his new song “Theraflu”, and a personal message to PETA. In his song he says “ Tell PETA my mink is draggin’ on the floor” , a statement that provoked some hilarious words from PETA reps. Fashionista

VAWK & VAWKKIN F/W12 by Aljhon Lorenzana

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Hard edge with modern glam was ubiquitous in Vawk’s collection for A/W 2012 playing with the theme of Futuristic Samurais. Dark coats were lined with slivers of silver fur running through the shoulders and side seams, while references to the traditional Japanese kimono were evident in the sleeves of dresses and sashes of the jackets. Colour was injected into the collection through looks such as the gold sequin strapless mini, contrasted with solid perpendicular lines to add a modern touch. The plum coloured dress was a bold statement along with a neckline and belt in shimmering gold laced with a touch more of the plum. Steep plunging V’s towards the waist created dramatic sensuality without being too vulgar, and the pseudo-tattoo embellishments were a hidden treasure beneath the blacks. The Vawk collection is truly for a confident woman, exuding power through details and strength through lines and cut.

Vawkkin, Vawk’s sister collection, also showed at Vancouver Fashion Week this season. Designed for the professional woman and more conservative than Vawk, the collection included looks that would be appropriate in transitioning from day to night, from weekday to weekend. Classic looks included a trench coat and the always elegant tweed in a pepper colour. Visual interest was added through a pop of colour, draped fabrics and modern lines. If the gold sequin dress isn’t for you then maybe the more conservative snake print dress with the large bow on the neckline just might be.

Sunny Fong and fellow Project Runway participants such as Evan Biddell and Stephen Wong of Greta Constantine are contributing in creating what is Canadian Fashion. We’re not just about the log cabin plaids anymore because the Great White North is making its mark on the International Fashion scene with chic and commendable

VAWK POST

Images taken by Aljhon Lorenzana
Graphics by Amy Chima

Neon Shock

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Although the weather is still grey and boring, that doesn’t mean our wardrobe has to be! All the top movers and shakers in the fashion industry have figured out a way to inject a vibrant shock of colour into an outfits neutral palette. The secret? A lovely shade of bright yellow that colours items from sandals to skirts, scarves to purses. This vibrant hue is like a breath of fresh spring air in a devastatingly drab environment. Add a splash of this bold colour to reinvent your cool girl uniform.

1. Marni Paillette embellished leather sandals
2. Cut 25 crepe de shine sulphur skirt
3. Michael Kors Cashmere scarf
4. Cambridge satchel fluoro large

images from: net-a-porter.com

Motorcycle Boots

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Here in Vancouver, rainy days are something we have gotten used to. Sloshing through puddles while keeping your feet from getting soaked is a talent that Vancouverites have picked up from these countless wet days. However, doing this in a stylish way, well that’s another story. For some reason, people seem to think that when it rains, you should wear your least appealing pair of shoes because you don’t want to get your nice ones wet. Attention all! There is a way to slosh through puddles, keep your feet dry, AND look stylish simultaneously. What I speak of is - the motorcycle boot. Casual, and sturdy (and bad ass!), this versatile boot will give your outfit that laid-back feel that we all strive for. Adorned with buckles, studs, and straps, there is guaranteed a pair of these bad boys that is sure to match your style.

1. Maison Martin Margiela Line 22
2. Maison Martin Margiela Moto Boot
3. Steve Madden
4. Emu Austrailia Leeton

Images from: Polyvore


Michael Kors F/W 2012 by Josh Monje

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The Michael Kors F/W 2012 collection equivocates a sense of luxury, whilst disseminating from the roots of a different America; an America where everyone lives in log cabins and is remarkably chic. Looks one and three both do great jobs at representing this. Michael Kors, undoubtedly is on of the most respected designers in the industry; it is specifically the fact that his designs are plush, yet it's not hard to imagine the housewife down the street wearing something from the line. Thus, explaining why in 2011 alone, Michael Kors Inc. saw the opening of 75 new stores; not to mention the 68% increase in revenue from the same quarter just a year ago. It is no doubt that America has gone crazy for Michael and his F/W 2012 show only proves that with designs as strong as this, the brand will only continue to grow. As usual, I've posted some of my favourite looks from the show, enjoy!

michael kors page

1) Personally, I am obsessed with a great coat. I think this would be a major addition to anyone's coat collection. It'll definitely keep you warm during those colder months, especially in the snow!

2) I love that the dress was paired with a scarf. Although, it is a tad revealing, I can definitely see the more daring fashionistas sporting this to work. If not, it's a great dress for a night out on the town. 

3)These two looks undoubtedly popped when I first saw them. The red and black contrast so beautifully. This would probably be something for the California girl. We always have those sunny days in December, but throw on the shall and thick red and black patterned socks and you're good to go!

4) This dress, hands down, is the most elegant piece from the collection. Can anyone say New Years dress? Or maybe even Christmas. Whatever the event may be, this dress will surely turn heads. 

5) This is another one of the stronger looks from the collection. I really do like it. It's probably something the more conservative clients would be interested in, but it's still sexy and chic. The coat is gorgeous, by the way. Love the fur trim on the collar. 

6) I love this black and white take on look three. The boots are like Uggs done right. Wear this on those California winter days and you've got an ultra chic, comfortable outfit!

Images from: Style.com

Pretty in Print


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Bold and graphic prints have climbed their way up the ranks the season and have made their appearance on tops, sweaters, bags, and blazers. All of these are easy enough to sport, but printed pants, well they are a tad more intimidating. Style setters all over the world have tried this bold new trend, making it look effortlessly cool and boho chic. Reality is, wearing printed pants really isn’t that hard! Think of the pants as the focal point of your outfit, the eye will go there first. You want to make sure you have a flattering pair, not something that bunches or pulls in the wrong places. You can pair the pants with a chunky sweater, crop top, blouse…the options are endless. Printed pants create so many new wardrobe options and are a perfect way to liven up your look as we head into spring!

1. Zara
2. Michael Michael Kors
3. Zara
4. Rag & Bone

Images From: Net-a-Porter, fashionvibe-blog.blogspot.com

ASOS SS12 Lookbook by Josh Monje

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Whenever a friend is looking for something specific I'll always recommend Asos. Why? Because they literally carry everything you could imagine; fashion wise, of course. It's only fitting that their spring 2012 lookbook would evoke a number of styles. From a uniquely cut, black dress to tie-dye tees and exotic patterned pants that are slightly reminiscent of a pair from the CÉLINE S/S 2011 collection. Below I've chosen a few of my favourite looks, along with a link to more photos from the lookbook, enjoy!

1) This black dress is cut really nicely and I find, would look fantastic paired with a great bag and some killer heels to create a cool, stylish outfit. It's totally great for spring and the hot weather. 
2) I think this look is casual, yet fashionable. Something you could easily wear to lunch with the girls or mix it up and pair the skirt with a business appropriate blouse and you’re good to go at the office. 
3) I think this skirt is modern, yet timeless. It's definitely a staple that you would want in your closet because you can use it season after season. Again, great for an afternoon out or for a day at the office. 
4) I'm not sure whether to refer to this as a dress or just a really oversized t-shirt but it somehow just works. The sleeves and pockets contrast the pattern so well. This would be great for a casual weekend outing. 
5) Coachella is literally around the corner and right when I saw this, I knew this was something I would be seeing at Coachella. The top can easily be thrown together with some shorts and the pants can be worn dressier or more casual, depending on the occasion. 
6) Again, another look for Coachella. Super chill and laid-back. Definitely not something you would be wearing to the office, maybe to that upcoming music festival or for spring break! 

asos looks

Images from: http://oystermag.com/asos-ss12-lookbook

Beauty Buys

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Ever get in that drab morning routine when getting ready is just not fun anymore? Freshen things up with some different beauty products that will wake up your morning routine! Here are a few of our favourites.

beauty breakfast

Images from: Sephora.com

Only Karl Can Interview Himself


What could be better than an interview with Karl Lagerfeld? How about Karl interviewing himself! We were over the moon when we saw this video produced by Net-a-Porter, to accompany the launch of Karl by Karl Lagerfeld, a lower priced line that launched on their site. Now not many people can successfully pull off conducting an interview, but interviewing themselves? I’d like to see someone do it as well as Karl. In the interview, Karl asks, well - Karl, about his life, inspirations, how to be chic, and what item he would want if he was stranded on a desert island. Typical questions, but Karl interviewing himself just makes it more fun! Grab yourself a cup of coffee, take a seat, and watch this ridiculously entertaining and witty interview!

Last Minute..

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It is officially Christmas Eve! The day that we stare at the gifts under the tree and desperately wonder what the colourfully wrapped boxes could contain. Now we know that many people are incredible procrastinators and have yet to get everyone on their list a gift, but hey - it happens. Life gets crazy and you just have to leave it until the last minute. Unfortunately, in the last minute madness concerning presents, another very important thing is forgotten. Stocking stuffers. Stocking stuffers should be things that people actually want, not just candy or coal (unless you’re fine with that). I personally like the things that I always mean to buy but never do because I’m too lazy (and cheap), like a great set of makeup brushes. So if you are one of the people that is in charge of filling the stockings, stay away from the candy and think about who you’re buying for. Here are a few ideas for what to get that fashionista you might be buying for. Best of luck to you, and next year - I advise you shop earlier!

1. Marc by Marc Jacobs heart shaped earbuds $40
2. Pure Vanilla Eau de Parfum Rollerball $19
3. Peacock print silk scarf (nasty gal)
4. What to wear, where by Hilary Kerr and Katherine Power
5. Listen and Learn Pen Holder (mod cloth) $10.99
6. Diane Von Furstenberg lip print iPhone 4 case $30
7. Charlotte Ronson Makeup bag $20
8. Winter Candy Apple lipgloss (bath and body works) $8

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

- Amy

Images from: net- a porter, nasty gal, mod cloth, bathandbodyworks

A Certain Brand of Cool

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One of our favourite style icons brought her quirky, meets boho who married grunge look, to her fourth collection for Opening Ceremony. Her collection is clearly a nod to the cool street kids from the 80's and 90's with the bike shorts, denim bombers, and high top sneakers. Not only does the collection exude an era of unconventional cool, but it also includes tons of lace, leather, and killer bags! If you're the downtown cool kid with style that no one can define, this is a collection that you can't afford to miss, or just can't afford because the prices are pretty steep..(just to warn you!). 

Check out the
Website to see the full collection.

Images from: Opening Ceremony


Marni for H&M

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Fashionistas all over the world are still dying over the gorgeous Versace for H&M collection, one that certainly lived up to all the hype. We would think that H&M would let us wait to let us hear which designer would be next while our credit card swiping fingers were itching to reach into our purses to buy us a new treasure. Surprisingly soon after the launch of the Versace collection, H&M announced that the next designer collaboration will be with the quirky italian fashion label Marni. Known for its use of bold colours, daring prints, and mixed fabrics, Marni will bring its unique offbeat touch to this collaboration without sacrificing an ounce of the brands integrity. Each piece will have the Marni look, regardless of the fact it will be sold at a lower price retailer. This is a feature that is respected by us fashionistas on budget! The collection all be available in 250 H&M stores and online on March 8th, 2012. Oh, and by the way, it won’t only be ladies lined up at H&M’s doors, because Marni will have a mens line too! Check out the sneak peek below!



Images From: Fashionista, Net-A-Porter, Marni.com


Classic With A Funky Twist By: Brittany Born

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In the words of Yves Saint Laurent, “Fashion fades, style is eternal”. That is a motto I try to live by and remember. In my eyes, style is more than just the way you dress but it is also the way you express yourself and your lifestyle. Style influences your daily life more than you realize, and that is why my style is so important to me. Though it is hard to summarize my style in just a few words, I would summarize it best by saying I dress classic with a boho chic twist and contemporary feel.  By that I mean that I dress pretty classic day to day, but I like to throw in a fringe vest every once in a while or maybe a rustic pair of leather boots. My main style remains classic while my accessories and the way I accentuate my outfit are more whimsical and quirky.

Style icons are great to have and they help provide ideas for the way in which you want to dress or represent yourself. A few of my many style icons include Audrey Hepburn, Blake Lively and Rachel Billson (for more of my classic side) and then Nicole Richie, Sienna Miller, Kate Bosworth and Ali MacGraw for the quirkier, unique aspect of fashion. I look to Audrey Hepburn for the classic inspiration such as black leggings, pearl earrings or simple dresses. I then look at Nicole Richie or Sienna Miller for fun boho looks or trendier pieces such as skinny cargo pants, or thigh up fringe boots. No matter what the look is, there is inspiration to be picked up.

Key pieces in my fashion wardrobe range from classic blue skinny jeans, to a black blazer and every color basic v-neck available. Then if I want an edgier look I wear my black fringe 3-layer boots, or my brown leather lace up boots. For accessories I would pick a sequined vest, green skinny cargo pants or possibly a funky scarf and chunky necklace. Whether its day or night, or quirky or classic, a look can be transformed easily from changing just a few key items or taking a slight fashion risk with a quirky accessory.

Fashion is a fun and easy way to express yourself. Think of your body as a blank canvas and your clothes and accessories as the paint and embellishments. Pick up inspiration from anything that strikes your interest such as a magazine, celebrity or even something like a rug or oil painting. Most importantly don’t be afraid to show your true self!
born identity
Images from: americansongwriter.comcelebritybagstyles.comthegroovychick.comchicstories.comminnetonka.comfreepeople.com

The Class Factor By: Sofia Husain

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Style, how do you define it? I suppose that is what the entire fashion industry is trying to figure out- what’s hot, what’s not, what’s in and what’s out. It’s easy to picture the world of fashion like a revolving door because you can only hope you’re headed in the right direction.  However that sense of uncertainty is exactly why fashion is exciting, dynamic and challenging- far from boring, fashion thrives on taking chances. Personally, I hardly consider myself to be any kind of fashion expert. I’m just an everyday girl who loves fashion and all it has to offer. When I was asked to write a piece of my own sense of style I felt a sense of dread come over me because I hate writing about myself. Not that I’m being modest, but I would prefer to write about almost anything or anyone else. But like I said before, fashion is all about taking chances so here’s goes nothing.
 
Three words to describe my sense of style would be….classy, chic and comfortable. Though I know not a lot of people would include “comfortable” as a way to describe their style, I’ve always felt you need to be at ease in your own skin and in what you’re wearing to really look your best.
 
My favorite places to shop are in the United States. Sorry Canada, but American stores tend to have better prices, more selection and amazing outlet malls! North of the border, I prefer Artizia, BCBG, Banana Republic and H&M.
 
If I won the lottery, the first thing I would buy…..a classic quilted Chanel bag. The epitome of style and grace, it’s a timeless handbag that will never go out of style. But until I can afford to drop four figures on a purse, my Aldo knock-off will have to do.
 
I wouldn’t be caught dead wearing….fur! Funny how times have changed, I just had a conversation with my grandma the other day about the thousands of dollars she spent on fur coats from years ago. Now she is trying to give them away and no one wants them- even for free. Animal rights win this round.
 
If I could go anywhere in the world, I would take a trip…around the world. I would love nothing more than to visit every continent and experience the different cultures, foods and of course, the fashion. Though Paris has a special place in my heart, I’m saving it for my honeymoon…if I ever have one lol.
 
The craziest thing I’ve done…is jump out of a plane from 13,500 feet in the air. Luckily I was wearing a parachute and had a sky diving instructor strapped to my back so I made it back to the ground in one piece. I also did the CN Tower EdgeWalk just last month, which officially makes me a rebel.
 
I can’t live without….my family.
 
In every woman’s closet she should have….a killer dress, a stylish blazer, black high heels and dark washed jeans she can take from day to night.
 
In every man’s closet he should have….a good quality watch, moderate fit jeans (not too tight or too baggy), a leather belt and at least one suit. Don’t forget a crisp white shirt and every guy should also know how to tie a tie.
 
My biggest fashion pet peeve…is flip flops. People seem to wear flip flops everywhere in the summer, but I really can’t stand the sight of them, sorry!
 
If I could work with anyone in fashion it would be….Anna Wintour. Anna’s influence in the fashion industry is beyond powerful- she is literally the last word in fashion. Though she has a reputation for being notoriously difficult to work with (think Devil Wears Prada), her knowledge and stature in the industry is remarkable.
 
I find my style inspiration from…the world around me. I am always checking out what people are wearing out on the streets (in a non-creepy way), as well as reading fashion blogs, browsing through magazines and window shopping in stores. My favourite websites are fashionismypoison.com (naturally), fashionista.com and my own fashion blog styleandtimes.tumblr.com (shameless self promotion)
 
I was inspired to take pictures of some of my favourite pieces from my own wardrobe such as the they do on the captivating website The  Coveteur (www.thecoveteur.com). With the help of my lovely sister in law,  I captured a few images that present my sense of style.  In the words of Coco Chanel, 'A girl should be two things - classy and fabulous'. Though I would love to pretend I embody these two qualities all the time, it is definitely what I strive for in fashion and in life.

#1: Gold plated Michael Kors watch.
#2: Taupe suede booties from Aldo.
#3: Off white blazer from BCBG and Chanel-inspired purse from Aldo.
 the class factor
Sincerely, Sofia 

Images from: sequined-chambray.tumblr.com, oliviapalermofashion.blogspot.com, redcarpetfashion-awards.com

Vancouver Fashion Week

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Temna Fialka was one of the many amazing Canadian labels showing at Vancouver Fashion Week. We were captivated by Natasha Lazarovic's unique and bold designs.  The fabrics in her spring 2012 collection were rich, the were colours bold, and the details her showed how much thought goes into her designs.  The designs had a whimsical, dream-like quality, and watching the show you found yourself immersed in the essence of Eastern European Culture. With talent like this, we have no doubt that Temna Fialka will continue to take the design world by storm.
temna fialka
Images owned by fashionismypoison

Stella McCartney ss12 By: Brittany Born

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With the holidays just around the corner, 2012 is sneaking up on us quite quickly. With 2012 on the way, spring/summer 2012 collections are coming as well, and Stella McCartney’s is definitely one to check out! Thought the line seems a bit eccentric, it consists of wonderful spring looks that are sure to catch the eye.

Stella McCartney’s spring/summer 2012 line consisted of everything from flowy dresses and tops, to funky hems and unique cutouts. There is truly nothing too traditional about this collection, and it is refreshing for the eyes to see designs that are unconventional and sexy at the same time.

There was a great mix of muted colors along with a few vibrant ones as well for the looks.There were hushed reds and blues, with a splash of kelly green and cobalt blue to liven up the looks. In addition to a variety of colors, there was also a variety of fun patterns. Everything from zigzags to modern polka-dots and even a few eccentric paisley prints dominated the spring/summer collection. Sheer fabrics gave the collection a breezy and youthful look while the beautifully placed, lace detail  gave the garments a hint of vintage glamour. Fun prints helped waken up some of the dresses and outfits as well, and hemlines definitely were an attraction to the eye. The crazy cut hemlines were unique and make the wonderful collection stand out from many of the others.  A few highlights of the spring/summer 2012 collection include:

  1. The deep red patterned, one shoulder dress, with sheer detailing on the side.
  2. The gorgeous cobalt blue, long sleeved dress with lace detail. And…
  3. The unique paisley print dress with black piping down the front.   

Stella McCartney designed this spunky collection with great detail, and the finished product is quirky, yet fantastic! Any girl that can rock this look isn’t afraid to make a statement, and definitely is a style trendsetter.

Images from Style.com

The Clothes Horse

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We all know that the blogosphere is growing everyday, and there is no shortage of fashion blogs out there. The challenge is making yours unique, creative, and to make sure you show case your personal style.  Think of all of your favourite blogs, what makes you visit them again and again? Is it the way they seem to effortlessly put together outfits that inspire you to take a little extra time in the morning while getting ready? Or maybe it's their personality that makes their writing fun to read. Whatever it is, those special bloggers have cracked the code. Rebacca Roe of The Clothes Horse is no exception. Check out our exclusive interview to find out how she achieves her personal style.
 
How would you describe your personal style?
I like the term "quirky ladylike" and lately "romanticism meets realism." I'm very inspired by vintage films and styles, but I try to mix things up a bit with interesting color combinations or other quirky details.
 
Has anyone in your life inspired your love for fashion?
Oh dear, not really! My father is in the army, so he wears a uniform every day and my mother really doesn't care about fashion at all. I'm kind of the black sheep (sartorially) in a family that is more interested in going on hikes or runs together. Because that's how I was raised I didn't even wear make-up or read fashion magazines until I was a senior in high school.
 
What item in your closet could you not live without?
Classic black ballet flats! I'm not very loyal to a particular brand because I like to wear them until they fall to pieces and then test out a different style. Right now, I have a satin pair from Marais USA.
 
If you could trade closets with a celebrity, who would it be? 
Sofia Coppola; she always looks stunning and timeless to me. 
 
I know that there are so many talented designers out there but there are always a few that are dear to us most. Who are those designers for you?
The first runway show I ever saw was on the Style network at around midnight and it was Christian Lacroix. When I saw his whimsical and colourful designs float down the runway, something in my mind just clicked. I was hooked. So, I still have this fondness for Christian Lacroix since he was the first designer that made me actually care about the fashion industry. Most of the other designers I like make collections I'm more likely to emulate and I do change favourites rather seasonally. I like the Proenza Schouler boys, Mulberry, Erdem, Jonathan Saunders, etc.
 
Have you discovered any up and coming designers that you cant get enough of?
I've definitely had the privilege of finding some independent designers who make really beautiful clothes. Family Affairs always has great pieces; the designer Nina has a nice romantic vision and creates lovely blouses. Lauren Moffatt is another favourite; she always works with really cool fabrics. And I also like Dear Creatures, which usually has this great retro and nautical vibe.
 
What advice would you give to people that want to experiment with trends but are not sure how to do so?
Try it! I think it's really good to just go ahead and start. When you are stepping outside of your comfort zone in one fashion, it's good to keep everything else normal for you. So, if you're trying out a new silhouette, maybe keep your hair and accessories very much in your comfort zone. Certain things take an adjustment period, like you need to take time to see that looking different from your usual isn't the same as looking bad. Wearing new styles around your home for a few hours (or days!) before you wear them out in public will help you get more comfortable.
 
How has blogging changed your life, your style, or views on fashion? 
Blogging started as my hobby, but has become my job, so that's one significant change! I've also gotten more courage to wear the pieces I love through my blog; I'm a bit shy, but knowing that people like my blog encourages me to not be afraid to stand out. 
 
Favourite places to buy affordable clothes without sacrificing quality?
Thrift shops and antique malls; I think that is what is so great about vintage--it's a fantastic quality, but can usually be found cheaply.
 
I know you are part of my morning cup of style, as your blog is one that I visit as well as some of my other favourites. What websites and blogs do you visit to gain inspiration or information about the fashion world?
Oh, thank you! I read a lot of blog throughout the day, so it's hard to say who I like to visit first; I'm a big fan of Calivintage, Niotillfem, and Hannah&Landon. Lately I also like to start the morning going through my Tumblr dashboard; I get so many interesting updates that way!
 
Visit her blog http://theclothes.blogspot.com/

 the clothes horse
Images from theclotheshorse.blogspot.com

Chloe Spring '11 By: Sofia Husain

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Set to celebrate its 60th anniversary next year, the Parisian line Chloe has an impressive history in fashion considering talents such as Karl Lagerfeld and Stella McCartney both gained recognition for their work at the well-established fashion house.  Now under the direction of new head designer Claire Waight Keller, this year’s line managed to walk a fine line between summer casual and summer chic. With the use of wide belts, light floral prints and desert-inspired hues, the collection is refreshing and relaxed. The pleated blouses and skirts are beautifully designed and bring a touch of sophistication to the Chloe woman. Perhaps the best part of the collection is the image of a well-designed clothing line that doesn’t try too hard. The line is comfortable and hassle-free, which is the perfect attitude to bring into the spring/summer season.

Top 3: 

1. I love the pleats of the blouse. With the neutral colours, the top is a versatile piece that can easily fit into any wardrobe. The look is trendy but still very wearable making it a winning combination. 
chloe1

2. The salmon pink blazer is stunning and works well with the multi-coloured pleats of the tank top. I love the idea of taking a pair of shorts and wearing it with a colorful blazer as a smart, sexy look for the summer months. 
chloe2

3. Encompassing the trend of colour blocking, the deep colours of this look really catch your eye. Coloured pants also seem to be catching on as far as being a trend, and the dark maroon tone of this trouser is a better option for those not wanting to step out in flashy pants (like myself). 
chloe3

To see the full runway show, see http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AsDegE6e7hU

Images from Style.com

L-L-LANVIN

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If I had to pick a few words to describe Lanvins spring 2012 collection, I would call it modern, sleek, and sophisticated.  Before the show, Alber Elbaz said that he had thought of  'an angel in hell' while designing the collection, ' but as he drew and drew, the angel returned to earth' (style.com). That would explain the dark, moody edge that the coiled snake appliqué evokes throughout the collection.
 
The glam jewelry and strong shoulders that accented some of these pieces are clear indicators of Alber's attention to detail. Not only has he mastered the art of feminine silhouettes and the perfect dress, but now he can add structured separates and sportswear to his design arsenal. What really sets the brand aside from others, is the fact that it is wearable for women.  In my opinion, there are two sides of fashion.  There is the whimsical, and captivating side that is the product of dreams and talent. The branch of fashion that is really, art. Then there is the practical, realistic, and wearable side that is appropriate for the everyday working girl.  Although we would all love to walk down the street feeling like a babydoll in the abstract and playful designs that just came down the runway of Viktor & Rolf, that is just not realistic for everyone. Leading me to my point, Lanvin has done it yet again. Bold, modern, and structured silhouettes that are made for the everyday working gal, have become a reality in a world fantasy.  Whatever you style may be, Lanvin has got it covered this spring.
Lanvinpost
Images from Style.com