Olympic Uniforms for the 2012 Opening Ceremonies

Posted on 27-Jul-2012 by bystyle

When the London Olympics open on July 27th, the Parade of Nations will be our introduction to the 2012 athletes. What each team wears to the Opening Ceremonies is the stuff of much conjecture, drama, pride, gossip, and criticism. Let’s see what some of the teams will be wearing.

Ralph Lauren

Yesterday, Ralph Lauren unveiled the U.S. team uniforms for the Opening Ceremonies. They look quite traditional and patriotic, but the oversized Polo logo screams “prep school.” And then there’s the beret, which has American fashion critics howling. But the biggest part of the upset over these uniforms is the fact that they were manufactured in China.

The Opening Ceremony uniforms for the Australian team were unveiled May 3rd during Sydney Fashion Week. The suits were designed by Sportscraft with shoes by Volley. The athletes say the clothing is very comfortable, which is important as they will be wearing them for at least seven hours on July 27th. The Australian athletic uniforms were designed by Adidas; you can see them in a video presentation.

Next

Stella McCartney (daughter of Sir Paul) designed the British athletic uniforms for Adidas and came under fire for rendering the Union Jack in blue and blue instead of blue and red. However, they look pretty tame compared to the uniforms the volunteer “ambassadors” will wear during the games. In stark contrast, the uniform by Next that Great Britain’s athletes will wear to the Opening Ceremonies is quite sedate.

Puma

The colorful yet slightly military Jamaican uniforms were designed by Cedella Marley, daughter of the late Bob Marley, in cooperation with Puma.

Reuters

Giorgio Armani designed clothing for Italy’s Olympic team, fifty pieces in all for each athlete (plus luggage), and that doesn’t even count the athletic uniforms! Armani did not design the athletic gear. The dark blue and white doesn’t broadcast patriotism, but the jackets and polo shirts have the words of the Italian national anthem embroidered on.

Bosco Sport

Spain’s uniforms were designed by Bosco Sport, a Russian company that is also doing uniforms for Russia and Ukraine. This is not sitting well with Spanish citizens. As a sponsor, Bosco is supplying the uniforms free, and some say they are worth every penny.

Bosco Sport

The Russian company Bosco Sport also designed the Russian uniforms. At the fashion unveiling in June, Aleksandr Zhukov, president of the Russian Olympic Committee, predicted that his country would take home about 25 gold medals.

INA FASSBENDER/Reuters/Landov

Unveiled in April, Germany’s uniforms by Adidas sort the sexes by putting women in pink and men in blue, and neither color is from the German flag. The matching scarves are reversible.

NZ2012

New Zealand’s uniforms were contracted to Kiwi firm Rodd and Gunn, but folks are upset that they were designed by Czech designer Irena Prikryl (who works for Rodd and Gunn in New Zealand), made of Italian textiles, and manufactured in Turkey, China, and Italy.

The uniforms for Hong Kong were designed by Kent and Curwen.

Fila

South Korea’s sailor look is by Fila, designed to recall the 1948 Olympics, in which Korea celebrated its first Olympic participation after liberation from Japan. Note the argyle socks. On the right are athletic uniforms designed by Bean Pole.

Adidas

With all the fashion designers in France, the French Olympic team curiously went to Adidas for their uniforms. The result was still understated high fashion.

Source from: http://www.mentalfloss.com/blogs/archives/133498

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15 Olympic Uniforms for the 2012 Opening Ceremony

Posted on 26-Jul-2012 by bystyle

The 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony is practically upon us!

After all the hype about whose designer’s designing what country’s uniforms, we’ve rounded up 15 patriotic outfits that you can expect to see this coming Friday.

As American’s we’re obviously partial to Ralph Lauren’s USA uniforms, but Adidas’ Netherland’s designs are a close second.

Australia

Designer: Sportscraft

Italy

Designer: Armani

Belize

Designer: Jeff Banks

Great Britain

Designer: Stella McCartney

Jamaica

Designer: Puma

New Zealand

Designer: Rodd and Gunn

Russia

Designer: Bosco

South Korea

Designer: Unknown

Belgium

Designer: Stijn Helsen

Netherlands

Designer: Adidas

Poland

Designer: Unknown

Slovakia

Designer: Unknown

China

Designer: Unknown

Spain

Designer: Bosco

USA

Designer: Ralph Lauren

Source from: http://fashionetc.com/fashion/fashion/6476-olympic-uniform-opening-ceremony-2012

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The most fashionable Olympics ever

Posted on 24-Jul-2012 by bystyle

Ralph Lauren has designed the US Olympics team kit.

In true pre-Olympics style, disasters seem imminent. Opening Ceremony curtailment, security guards fiascos and even the BBC has thrown its hat into the critical ring with spoof series, Twenty Twelve, mocking the organising committee’s moves.

But when it comes to fashion, there are few who can disagree that this is lining up to be, as none other than Giorgio Armani put it, “the most fashionable Olympic Games ever”.

We’ve been told it is to be the Twitter Olympics, technology and social-media driven – but we also know that, true to form, it will be a showcase of daring British style.

Azerbaijan has cast Ermanno Scervino to dress its Olympics team.

Not one for typically stepping in line, fashion in this instance is forced to adapt to the primary concerns of performance. Sportswear, particularly at this zenith of competitive levels, comes with a gamut of critical functions – speed, movement, durability, temperature regulation, shock absorption, support.

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So, for those designers more used to courting the adage ‘no pain, no gain’ and sending gazelle-like models in 6-inch heels down catwalks, the Olympics are likely to pose something of a curved ball.

Enter the team of sartorial thread-smiths who have been charged with injecting high fashion credibility into the tracks, pitches, pools, lakes and courts of East London and beyond.

Italy has Armani (pictured here) at its sartorial head, while Prada is at the helm of its sailing team outfits.

And if anyone can imbue a touch of sartorial kudos into a Lycra onesie, it is Stella McCartney.

For her interpretation of team GB’s outfits, McCartney stepped away from the all-too common bands of royal blue and regimental red, instead “dismantling” what she calls “one of the most beautiful flags in the world”.

Much white and blue and a highly-criticised lack of red later (athletes wearing red have been found to outperform others), and team GB has undergone the Stella effect.

Team GB has been given the Stella McCartney touch.

“I see many feel as strongly about the Union flag as I do! The design actually uses more red & shows more flag than any Team GB kit since ’84″, she tweeted in her defence.

The volunteers don’t have it quite so easy. Boris Johnson told the army of Olympics helpers that he hoped they didn’t feel “too ridiculous” in their fluoro pink and purple combinations. That may be impossible for some of the larger-breasted Londoners – the pattern means that a dreaded ‘pink bra’ effect is neatly achieved with no effort at all.

As dubious as some of the finished products appear, these threads are all about form over function – styling comes as second fiddle to their visibility, movement and endurance capacities.

Italian design house Ermanno Scervino has created the kit for Azerbaijan Republic athletes, combining impressive amounts of aqua, green and red in team tracksuits, and the ubiquitous blazer/corporate skirt/slacks/silk scarf combination for the ceremonial events.

Ralph Lauren – beleaguered by Chinese sweatshop accusations – has given the US Olympic team his touch, with Ceremony kit designs (reminiscent, across vast swathes of nation states, of airline uniforms) punctuated by Polo logos and preppy striped belts.

Italy has the honour of Armani leading its fashion prowess, while Prada is at the helm of the Italian sailing team’s look. The navy monochrome palette – no red, green and white here – has been supplemented with a shot of Italian nationalism by stitching words to the national anthem to the jacket lining.

Away from the demi-gods of high fashion and into the grass-roots world of street culture, Bob Marley’s daughter Cadella Marley has designed the outfits for the Jamaican team. Towering over the petite designer, Usain Bolt recently modelled the yellow and green Puma threads as overseen by the designer and singer.

For the record, Australia’s lacklustre but neat Opening Ceremony get-ups are the responsibility of Sportscraft, and we have so far seen no sign of a team umbrella – shaping up to be one of the most useful tools of the Games – in any national wardrobe mix.

Elsewhere, sports-meets-fashion fever is spreading.

Nike and Liberty have collaborated to produce a line of floral-patterned trainers and Prada has reimagined its golf styles to give them a laid-back sporty edge.

Adidas has teamed up with the Olsen twins’ label, Opening Ceremony and BMX to create suitably bandit-tinged line and Coach, stately at the best of times, have launched a wallet made of the recycled baseball mitts.

Flying the flag for British talents in other areas are a host of models who are set to take their part in the Closing Ceremony. Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Lily Cole, Stella Tennant, Lily Donaldson, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley and Georgia May Jagger will reportedly shimmy to the tones of David Bowie’s Fashion and Rebel Rebel at the extravaganza and are expected to wear designs by the doyenne of British fashion, Vivienne Westwood alongside Stella McCartney and Sarah Burton for Alexander McQueen.

Elton John, Annie Lennox, George Michael, Pet Shop Boys, Take That and Adele are all scheduled to add their spin to the proceedings.

Then, of course, comes the Royal Family. Make no mistake, the Duchess of Cambridge’s wardrobe choices will be watched through a microscope, with predictions as to her designers of choice already doing the rounds. Alexander McQueen, Jenny Packham and those ubiquitous nude heels from LK Bennett are as sure to resurface as the rain is to pour.

Let the athletes take to the catwalk…

Source from: http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/lifestyle/fashion/the-most-fashionable-olympics-ever-20120719-22bu5.html

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Olympic Fashion Through the Ages

Posted on 22-Jul-2012 by bystyle

Swimmer Ryan Lochte, decathlete Bryan Clay, rower Giuseppe Lanzone and soccer player Heather Mitts model the official Team USA’s uniforms by Ralph Lauren. The Olympic designs created controversy after it was discovered they were made entirely in China. Click forward and check out some memorable Olympics fashion through the decades.

Although its too late to change the uniforms in time for London Games, Ralph Lauren’s promised the tags for the 2014 Olympics will read “Made in USA.”

A model wears one of the new uniforms Mexican athletes will wear during the London 2012 Olympics Games. Olympic style over the years has ranged from slick to silly.

A model walks the catwalk in the new tracksuits Mexican athletes will wear in London 2012.

Chinese basketball team players Chen Nan, Miao Lijie, Liu Wei, Wang Shipeng, Yi Jianlian and Zhu Fangyu show off the Nike uniforms they will wear in London.

Some of Brazil’s best athletes show off the uniforms they’ll wear for the 2012 Olympic Games. Designed by Nike, they’ll be on display during the opening and closing ceremonies as well as on the podium.

This product illustration released by Nike shows a Turbospeed suit, the official apparel for the USA Track & Field team for the London Summer Olympics. Nike says the outfits could shave up to 0.023 seconds off 100-meter sprint times.

Speedo hopes their new “Fastskin3″ swim suit shown here will see records tumble at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Even though neither color is in Germany’s flag, that didn’t stop Adidas from sorting the sexes, with women in pink and men in baby blue.

Swimming stars such as Michael Phelps and Rebecca Adlington have already confirmed they will wear the new Speedos in competition in 2012.

Australian Olympic team members Kynan Maley, Lauren Jackson and Adam Gibson, Libby Trickett, Naomi Flood, Sarah Tait and Murray Stewart, model the official Australian Olympic Opening Ceremony uniform.

Stylish Dunlop Volley shoes are part of the Australian team’s Olympic uniform in 2012.

British gymnast Louis Smith models an outfit by British fashion designer Stella McCartney that will be worn by British athletes at the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

World renowned designer Stella McCartney, center, collaborated with Adidas on the British team’s 2012 Olympic kits. McCartney says the outfits “combine style with performance.” Here she poses with triple jumper Phillips Idowu and heptathlete Jessica Ennis.

Models present the German Olympic team member fashion for the upcoming London 2012 Olympic Games.

German Olympic team show off their new team kits for the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Models pose on the catwalk during a fashion show of sports clothing for the Slovakia athletes attending the 2012 London Olympic Games.

A model walks on a podium during the official presentation of Jamaican clothing for the 2012 Olympic games, designed by Bob Marley’s fashion-designer daughter Cedella Marley.

Olympic medalist swimmer Ryan Lochte models a Ralph Lauren Olympic uniform. Lauren’s Closing Ceremony outfits are part of a long line of Olympic fashion.

Now take a look back at Olympic fashion through the years. Swimmer Helen Norfolk of New Zealand models the 2008 team uniform.

The 2010 Czech Olympic team outfits were unveiled in a choreographed fashion show, wherein models did more than just walk the runway wearing the upcoming Vancouver Winter Games garb – looks like they posed, too!

Who said the ’80s were over? With the multicolored ringed patterns, these Czech outfits could’ve been for the 1988 games. But no! This is a glimpse of the fine duds at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games.

Ralph Lauren was at it again: this is the U.S. Olympic team’s 2010 Opening Ceremony outfit. The puffy jackets and slim pants provided a sporty base for more classic details like the knitted caps.

In addition to the Team USA uniforms for both the 2010 Opening and Closing Ceremonies, Lauren designed Olympic gear for fans as well, based on initial sketches that included sporty and classic details.

Polo’s Ralph Lauren was the official U.S. outfitter for the 2008 Olympic Summer Games. Here, boxer Deontay Wilder and sprinter/long jumper Brianna Glenn of the U.S. team model the Ralph Lauren-designed “village wear.”

Models wearing Beijing-themed fashion in anticipation of the 2008 Beijing Olympic Summer Games walked the runway during China Fashion Week in 2005. Three years out and they were already getting Olympics crazy!

The Chinese team’s fashion was so thought-out, they even had official makeup and hairstyles for the victory ceremonies. Here, a hairstylist incorporates the Olympic rings on a model in preparation for the 2008 Beijing Olympic Summer Games.

Brazil’s Cesar Cielo Filho, gold medal winner of the men’s 50m swimming freestyle at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Summer Games, displayed a rather unique furry creation by hair stylist Carlos Carrasco during the Hair Fashion Show in Sao Paulo.

He didn’t design the jacket, but Italian fashion designer Giorgio Armani looks excited to be sporting official Torino wear as he carries a torch along with soccer player Andriy Shevchenko in 2006.

U.S. defending Olympic singles tennis champion Venus Williams looked appropriately sheepish as she unveiled her fashion design: a hat she created for McDonald’s employees to wear while serving food during the 2004 Olympic Summer Games. Tennis star, yes. Budding fashion designer? You decide.

Inspired by the upcoming 2004 Greece Olympic Summer Games, this outfit was part of a collection for the “Sport and Mode” catwalk show unveiled in Rome. But we’re not entirely sure that sewing the Olympic rings onto a flouncy coat qualifies as inspired.

Italian Olympic medalist Massimiliano Rosolino wasn’t afraid to show off his bod wearing bathing trunks with Olympic rings during the Biagiotti’s men’s fashion show in 2004.

During the Closing Ceremony of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games in Salt Lake City, models presented designs by Italian designers Valentino, Versace, and Dolce and Gabbana as a tribute to Torino, Italy, the site of the following Winter Olympic Games in 2006.

In 2000, models paraded down the runway in Speedo’s Fastskin swimsuits at a show in Sydney’s Darling Harbour before the start of the Summer Olympic Games. Since most of us don’t need a split-second advantage, they included some cuter, less function-oriented swimsuits as well.

Renowned wedding gown stylist Vera Wang designed 1992 Olympic skater Nancy Kerrigan’s dress (pictured), as well as a second skating dress for Kerrigan in 1994.

The 1980′s certainly had some glorious design moments. Here, American gymnasts Mary Lou Retton and Peter Vidmar celebrate their 1984 victories in classic ’80s styling: bold stripes, Members Only-styled jackets, and colorful crests.

Everyone gets a fancy outfit for the Olympics, even airline hostesses! Greek designer Yannis Tseklenis designed this look especially for Olympians of the sky with colorful interlocking rings to celebrate the games. Can you guess the era? (Answer: This photo was taken in 1971.)

Leave it to the French to design a uniform fit for the jet set. Jacques Esterel, known for whimsical couture collections, designed the look for French athletes competing in the 1964 Olympic Summer Games (Valise not included).

In 1960, hats were all the rage. The U.S. team sported matching striped ties and straw hats during the Opening Ceremony of the Rome Olympic Games.

What say there, Phinneas? You’ve got to admit, the official uniforms for U.S. athletes (from left: basketball, track, yachting and boxing) at the 1936 Berlin Olympic Summer Games were pretty cool.

The 1924 Olympic Summer Games were held in Paris and these lovely ladies donned the Olympic Gown at the race course at Longchamp. Don’t laugh … it was the style!

Californian champion Florence Chambers poses in her swimming costume, she was fourth in the 1924 100 metre backstroke Olympic final in Paris.

Women competitors in the National Round (60 yards – 50 yards) Archery event of the 1908 London Olympics of 1908.

An unidentified Danish gymnast in action at the 1908 London Olympics.

U.S. Olympic basketball players LeBron James, Deron Williams, Michael Redd, Dwyane Wade and Kobe Bryant display the uniforms provided by Nike they will wore at the Beijing Olympics.

Source from: http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/sports/Olympic-Fashion-78246522.html

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Spring and Summer Makeup 2012: A Sneak Peek

Posted on 16-Jul-2012 by bystyle

A model walks the TRESemme at Tracey Reese Runway 2012 during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

For Spring/Summer the fresh face look introduced in the fall will return. The warmer season brings warm, luminous faces with just a hint of color, with either a focus on soft eyes with sheer pastel colors and well-defined brows; bronzer for a sun-kissed glow on the cheeks and eyes; or metallic and sparkling shadows in lighter shades paired with soft pink, coral or nude shades on the lips. There will be bright, vibrant colors, of course, but toned-down versions of neon shades that were hot last summer. Smoky eyes will return, paired with bronze lids. Eyes will be lined with pastel shades of green, lavender, silver and soft baby blues.

The Nude Face

A model backstage at the Tracy Reese Spring 2012 Show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

As seen on the fall runways, the almost bare, fresh face look was prominent at the spring/summer fashion shows during New York Fashion Week. Just a soft dusting of eye shadow, very little, if any, mascara, softer eyebrows, rosy, flushed cheeks and pink gloss was used for a natural, no-makeup look. The sheer foundations and tinted moisturizers are perfect for rising temperatures.

The Monochromatic Face With Just a Hint of Color

A model on the Cushnie Et Ochs Runway Spring 2012 during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

As seen on fall runways, the monochromatic face with just a hint of color on the eyes, lips and cheeks is back for spring. Use a sheer foundation or tinted moisturizer that matches your skin tone and make sure to keep skin glowing and clear with a good skin care regimen that includes eating a healthy diet, drinking lots of water and getting enough rest.

Flushed Cheeks

A model walking the runway at the Jeremy Scott Spring 2012 Show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

As seen during the fall, you’ll once again find exaggerated blush, but this time instead of a wintry flush, it’s a look of sun-kissed or burnished cheeks. Bronzers will also be used to contour the cheeks and add subtle shimmer to eyelids.

Pretty Pastels

Ralph Lauren Spring 2012 Show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

Like delicate spring blossoms, you’ll see pastel shadows, shimmery pink-hued lips, thick full and defined eyebrows, though not as bold as fall’s brows, one coat of mascara and flushed cheeks contoured with pink blush.

Softer Eyes

Ralph Lauren Spring 2012 Spring 2012 Show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

Also seen on runways, a bare face with a focus on the eyes, defined but not overly elaborate.

Flirty and Romantic

Ralph Lauren Spring 2012 Show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

Makeup took on an elegant, romantic simplicity at the fashion show for the Ralph Lauren Spring 2012 collection. Expect to see flirty lavender lids, light blue and silver shadows under well-defined, thick brows, with eyes that look natural, and soft flushed cheeks in pinkish hues, and pink gloss on the lips.

Emerald Eyes

Raul Penaranda Runway Spring 2011 during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

Gorgeous green metallic shimmer on the lids puts a focus on the eyes while the face is luminous and bare with soft pink lips for the Raul Penaranda Runway.

Golden Eye

Tess Giberson Runway Spring 2012 during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

A rich touch of shimmery metallic gold was swept across the lids making the eyes the focus with neutral skin and lips on the runways of Tess Giberson Spring 2012 Fashion Show. Also expect to see shadows in metallic and soft pastel yellows.

High Shine Gloss

Model at the Tracy Reese Spring 2012 Show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

Nude faces give the illusion of an unmade, natural face with a high shine glossy neutral or pink lips. You can also give neutral lipstick shades a little extra glow with gold-hued gloss.

Corals

A model on the Douglas Hannant Spring 2012 runway at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

Coral shades were big last fall and return for spring, along with neutral shades that compliment skin tones.

Orange Crush

A model walks the runway at the Karen Walker Spring 2012 Fashion Show during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

In case you find the neutral face look a snooze fest, never fear, a touch of warm orange or golden-orange on the cheeks and eyelids, with bold orange matte lips will also brighten faces during spring and summer.

Classic Red Lips

A model at the Irina Shabayeva Spring 2012 Fashion Show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week.

And red lips return with gorgeous eyes, while the rest of the face flirts with just a hint of color.

Source from: http://multiculturalbeauty.about.com/od/Makeup/ss/Spring-And-Summer-Makeup-2012-A-Sneak-Peak_13.htm

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The Best Looks from New York Fashion Week: Spring 2012

Posted on 21-Jun-2012 by bystyle

Proenza Schouler Spring 2012

Here, as it has been elsewhere in New York, the emphasis was on dresses. At Proenza, they were to the knee, long-sleeved and just on the sexy side of prim and proper.

Source from: http://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/fashion-articles/ny-fashion-week-spring-2012-looks#slide-1

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The Best Spring 2012 Nail Trends

Posted on 08-May-2012 by bystyle

The big news with nails this season: nude is in. After an excess of neon and oddball colors, the pendulum has swung in the opposite direction with an emphasis on pretty, wearable shades of cream and beige. That’s not to say there aren’t bold patterns and bright moments to be enjoyed—this is spring, after all—but it’s all about classic reds, chic corals, soft pastels, and mellow yellows mixed in with cool ombre and metallic designs. Welcome to your most flattering manicure season yet. Plus, see the top makeup trends and hottest hair from Spring 2012.By Kari Molvar

New Neutrals

Minimalist colors made the biggest statement of all. Creamy shades of gray, white, pale pink, and soft beige looked refreshing on models fingers, contrasting against the many printed clothing and accessories. Perfection is key with these shades, though—no chips, scuffs or slacking on the upkeep—and a rounded shape helps elongate your hands.

New Neutrals

Feminine French manicures at Ralph Lauren

Lovely Colors

Prettiness and femininity were two of the most directional trends at the shows. On nails, that translated into lady-like reds, rich burgundy, demure pastels, and smart chartreuse. Pick up hints of your shade on your eyes or lips for the elegant finish.

Manicurists have proven that they can do just about anything with a set of Minx, some glitter, and an airbrush gun. Now that the boundaries have been pushed, it’s all about perfecting the art to focus on artful yet approachable looks. Here’s what worthy of gracing your tips this season.

Sequined tips at Dsquared

Fancy Patterns

Chrome hologram Minx at Missoni

Fancy Patterns

Reflective pearly finishes at Alexander McQueen

Fancy Patterns

Moody ombre effects at Jen Kao

Fancy Patterns

Jockey stripes and half-moons at Ruffian

Fancy Patterns

Tribal v-shaped manis at Pamela Love

Return to Slide Show

Fancy Patterns

Geometric checkered manicures at Nicole Miller

Fancy Patterns

Black swan graffiti at Wayne

Source from: http://www.harpersbazaar.com/beauty/spring-2012-nail-trends#slide-1

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Accessory Trends: Pastel Bags

Posted on 01-May-2012 by bystyle

Pretty pastel colours ruled the catwalks this season and that inclued accessories too – take a look at these pastel hued bags from spring summer 2012.

J Crew

Jil Sander

Moschino Cheap & Chic

Dolce & Gabbana

Paul Smith

Rochas

Louise Gray

Emporio Armani

Etro

Givenchy

Jason Wu

Prada

Ralph Lauren

Chanel

Derek Lam

Miu Miu

Lanvin

Source from: http://www.marieclaire.co.uk/runway/accessories/34810/18/spring-summer-2012-accessories-pastel-bags-bags-fashion-trends.html#index=1

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Spring 2012: Pastel Perfect

Posted on 25-Apr-2012 by bystyle

We show you how to shop the season’s pastel trend according to your style and budget.

Prada

Quirky

Brass-plated crystal earrings, Jil Sander, $420, at Saks Fifth Avenue stores nationwide

Sunglasses, Rochas, price on request, visit rochas.com

Satin bag, Miu Miu, $895, visit miumiu.com

Printed jacket, $110, shorts, $82, both, Asos, visit asos.com

Patent leather pump, Guess, $90, at select Macy’s stores nationwide

Rock ‘N’ Roll

Sunglasses, Marc Jacobs, $260, visit marcjacobs.com

Embossed leather cross-body bag, DKNY, $185, at select DKNY locations nationwide

Python sandal, Gianvito Rossi, $1,147, at Barneys New York

Ostrich feather and silk jacket, Louis Vuitton, price on request, call 866-VUITTON

Destroyed jeans, True Religion, $207 each

Minimalist

Blazer, Mango, $60, visit mango.com

Cotton-and-viscose pants, Isabel Marant, $605, at Isabel Marant, NYC

Crystal bracelet, Atelier Swarovski by Christopher Kane, $335, visit dresscodebygita.com

Linen knit tank top, 10 Crosby Derek Lam, $225, visit barneys.com

Parrot fish pump, Alexander Wang, $995, visit alexanderwang.com

Sophisticate

Rhodium-plated bracelet with crystals, Swarovski, $250, visit swarovski.com

Silk minaudière, Nina Ricci, $2,150, collection at Ikram, Chicago

Sequin tank top, BCBGMaxAzria, $278, visit bcbg.com

Embroidered organza skirt, Peter Som, $3,146, at Peter Som, NYC

Patent leather pump, Dior, $790, call 800-929-DIOR

Gingham Shirt, Louis Vuitton

Gingham Shirt

Cotton shirt, True Religion, $128, at True Religion stores nationwide

Gingham Shirt

Cotton shirt, J.Crew, $75

Gingham Shirt

Cotton-blend top, Guess

Gingham Shirt: Wear It With…

Rose gold wishbone necklace, Jennifer Meyer, $1,200, at Barneys New York

Gingham Shirt: Wear It With…

Leather bag, Coach, $798

Gingham Shirt: Wear It With…

Patent leather Maryjane pump, Stuart Weitzman, $365, at Stuart Weitzman, NYC

Grecian Dress, Lanvin

Grecian Dress

Draped-detail dress, MM Couture by Miss Me, $68

Grecian Dress

Lace-detail dress, Ann Taylor, $248

Grecian Dress

Beaded georgette dress, Laundry by Shelli Segal, $395, at Bloomingdale’s stores nationwide

Grecian Dress: Wear It With…

Ostrich-feather jacket, Ralph Lauren Collection, $3,998, at select Ralph Lauren stores nationwide

Grecian Dress: Wear It With…

White gold and diamond earrings, Hearts on Fire, price on request, call 877-PERFECT

Full Skirt, Jil Sander

Full Skirt

Cotton and silk-blend skirt, Creatures of the Wind, $1,120, collection at Ikram, Chicago

Full Skirt

Silk skirt, Honor, $1,200, at Honor, NYC

Full Skirt

Cotton-blend skirt, Nanette Lepore, $498, at Nanette Lepore, Bal Harbour, FL

Full Skirt: Wear It With…

Retro-inspired paste earrings are a necessary addition.

Seashell motif earrings with drop stone, Oscar de la Renta, $585

Full Skirt: Wear It With…

Synthetic bag, Dolce & Gabbana, $1,525, at select Dolce & Gabbana boutiques nationwide

Full Skirt: Wear It With…

Peep-toe sandal, Manolo Blahnik, $755, to special order at Manolo Blahnik, NYC

Source from: http://www.elle.com/Elle-Shops/Elle-Shops/Spring-2012-Pastel-Perfect#mode=base;slide=1

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Hot Rod Pastels rev up for spring

Posted on 24-Apr-2012 by bystyle

Fashion-wise, winter is almost over, and as the weather gets warmer, your wardrobe will be full of yellows, pinks and blues – but not like you’ve ever seen before. The new style is more Lana Del Rey than Minor Danish Royal.

Hot Rod Pastels on the S/S 2012 catwalks for Jonathan Saunders (left) and Prada.

It may be winter outside, but in my heart it’s spring. Because in fashion, winter ends the moment the winter collections hit the sale rails (one wouldn’t be seen dead in a trend that has been marked down, obviously). Sherlock on a bad nicotine-withdrawal grump has more patience than a fashion editor who has moved on to the next season. So if you’re still dithering over which luxe parka/Lund jumper to buy, then I’m afraid you’re on your own – unless this winter gets a late PR windfall, eg photogenic snowfall or similar.

It is time to embark on what American Vogue calls “planning your new season’s wardrobe”. Whatever this phrase may mean within the Manhattan offices of Vogue, in the rest of the world it means flicking through some magazines until a few new-season images lodge themselves in your head, dragging some pieces that fit the bill from the last time those trends were in from the bottom of the wardrobe on to the ironing pile, and wondering if you can fit in a lunchtime race around the shops at some point in the next fortnight.

Old-school pastels: Infanta Elena of Spain at a wedding last summer.

Acid-free tissue paper and shoe boxes labelled with Polaroids are not required. But what this season does demand, and at your earliest convenience, is a complete rethink on the subject of pastels. I haven’t worn pastel colours for about two decades, essentially because as a grownup operating in the real world there is almost no circumstance in which lemon-yellow tailoring or a minty green knit doesn’t read a bit oddly. “Outfits for the prizegiving ceremony at a ballet school” is not a wardrobe category I have much call for.

But pastels have had a revamp. The roll call for the poster girls of the new pastel reads as follows: Laura Palmer, Betty Draper, Katy Perry and Lana Del Rey. My point is: minor Danish royalty need not apply. On the cover of the new British Vogue, the hot American model Arizona Muse wears £1,590 worth of broderie anglaise Prada in pale shades of blue and yellow, hands perched confidently on hips just above a coverline proclaiming the New Look. Pastel shades even have new, more interesting names. Ralph Lauren relaunched an elegant pale green as “celery”. Sky blue was

renamed “Laura Palmer Blue” by London designer Richard Nicoll, who wanted to conjure “a disturbed sense of calm”. This is the season of the Hot Rod Pastel: sugared almond shades with a dark side. Like Ocean Drive in Miami they are pretty as a picture, but have a narcotic buzz.

It all began with September’s round of catwalk shows. Jonathan Saunders and Christopher Kane‘s London shows were staged in spare, modern halls of concrete and glass – Saunders at the Paddington Central office building, Kane at One New Change – with the audience seated on minimalist bleachers. And then on to both catwalks, the designers sent colours more usually associated with tea rooms and well-stuffed sofas. Pistachio and rose, aqua and daffodil. A few days later, at Prada, the brand’s headquarters were transformed by set designer Rem Koolhaas into a David Lynchian reimagining of Detroit: oil-slicked streets, with cut-out Greased Lightning cars. And when the show started, the clothes came in the colours that until this season were seen only on the royal photocall outside church on Easter Sunday.

Hot Rod Pastel inspiration: Ocean Drive in the Art Deco district of Miami Beach, Florida.

We have all become experts in decoding the subtleties of neutrals. (Black is now professional rather than rock’n'roll; dirty grey is the new black for Kate Moss wannabes; navy is good for making you look a bit French; oatmeal is for people who are really into work-life balance.) But pastels present a whole new learning curve. Early intelligence suggests that pink, being the least unexpected of the pastels, will be left in the shade by blue, green and yellow tones. The ultimate power-dressing combination for spring 2012 is lemon yellow with ice blue, as already seen on the catwalk at Prada and Preen, and the cover of Vogue.

But what makes a look Hot Rod Pastel rather than Minor Danish Royal is a chaser of something fierce. At Prada the models wore wet-look, bad-girl hair with their broderie anglaise. At Jonathan Saunders they sported exaggerated black eyeliner flicks with their pistachio, apricot and raspberry tones. Louis Vuitton’s crocodile-skin court shoes in lemon yellow have a dagger-sharp toe-cap in silver. Spring is here all right. The question is, are you brave enough to wear it yet?

Source from: http://www.guardian.co.uk/fashion/2012/jan/10/hot-rod-pastels-spring-fashion

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Jewelry Trends For Spring/ Summer 2012

Posted on 16-Apr-2012 by bystyle

There is no need to tell a fashionista how important jewelry is. We are all aware of that. But it is great to always stay in trend and know the latest innovations in the industry. So, our list of the hottest jewelry tendencies is right here for you.

Jewelry Trend: Floral Fantasy.

As you know flowers are a real hit this season. They aren’t only featured as prints on clothing, shoes, kerchiefs and bags. They also influence the shape of headwear (remember those huge flower-hats from Marc Jacobs’ Fall 2012 fashion show) and come in all kinds of jewelry. Necklaces, rings, bracelets, hair pins and other jewelry pieces from Spring/ Summer 2012 collections have been inspired by flowers.

Jewelry Trend: Chandelier earrings.

Chandelier earrings are very beautiful and feminine. They can make your evening look totally luxurious in no time. One-, two- or even three-layered earrings, which are very trendy this spring, come made of both precious metals and less expensive equivalents, with amazing jewels or plastic elements in them.

Jewelry Trend: Sea-Inspired Jewelry.

Sea was a big theme of Spring/ Summer 2012 fashion season and it inspired creation of plenty of fantastic accessories, including jewelry pieces. Sea-star-rings, pearl and fish-scale earrings, necklaces made of shells, iridescent crystals and other interesting jewelry can transform your look and make it more romantic.

Jewelry Trend: Ethnic Influence.

We all have brought ethnic jewelry from different travels. Now it’s time to wear it. Make a statement with your bright and interesting necklaces, large rings, earrings with feathers, fringe and knitted elements. Add unusual ribbons and wooden details in your hair and don’t care much about matching things. This spring the motto is: the more the better. Just look at Mara Hoffman’s models, who wear loads of such jewelry and look terrific!

Jewelry Trend: Genuine stones.

Today, when people more and more turn to nature, there is nothing surprising in the fact fashion designers try to use genuine materials in their creations. For Spring/ Summer 2012 it was the stones that were used in so many impressive ways.

Jewelry Trend: Multilayer Necklaces.

Necklaces worn in many layers look chic and stylish. You can wear one multilayer necklace or a few necklaces in the same color or different colors to brighten up your look.

Jewelry Trend: Bracelets in geometric shapes.

Square, triangle, cubic, and round bracelets are very trendy this season. They might look a little tough but when perfectly coordinated with an outfit they can give the right emphasis to the look.

Source from: http://www.millionlooks.com/trends/accessories-trends/jewelry-trends-for-spring-summer-2012/

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Update your wardrobe for Spring/Summer 2012 in five steps

Posted on 20-Mar-2012 by bystyle

Be stylish this season!

Getting ready for Spring/Summer 2012 needn’t involve a complete wardrobe overhaul, so here are five simple steps on what to buy, what to ditch and what to keep for the coming months.

Era to embody: 1920s

Already one of the most talked about films of 2012 despite not being scheduled for release until December, fashionistas will be getting in the mood for Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby during the spring and summer months. Gucci led the way at its Spring/Summer 2012 show with geometric print flapper dresses, while the Jazz Age was a key influence at the Etro show. Ralph Lauren was also enamored with the flapper style, with fringed skirts, elaborate beading on dresses, and cloche hats dominating its Spring/Summer 2012 presentation.

Image: Flapper dresses at Gucci

Image: Ralph Lauren’s Spring 2012 runway show featured 1920s-inspired items such as cloche hats.

Motif to embrace: floral

There are certain motifs we know will re-emerge season after season (nautical, lace, floral), and for Spring/Summer 2012 flowers are particularly prevalent. Colorful bloom prints were all over the catwalk, ranging from the iridescent creations adorned with multicolored blooms at Christopher Kane to the broderie anglaise Louis Vuitton frock sported by Lana Del Rey on the cover of UK Vogue’s March issue. Floral pieces from the Vuitton collection have also been seen on covers including British Elle (by Alexa Chung) to Vogue Japan (by Kate Moss). For the coming months, Paul Smith is offering cropped eafloral blazers, Diane von Furstenberg leaf-print pants, while 7 For All Mankind is offering floral print denim and Uniqlo has teamed up with English fashion and lifestyle brand Laura Ashley for a Spring 2012 collection comprising floral prints, T-shirts, stoles, and tunics.

Image: Floral jumpsuit by Topshop

Floral skirt by H&M, Conscious collection

Image: Paul Smith Spring/Summer ’12 collection

Item to keep from Fall/Winter 11/12: anything leather

One of the biggest revelations to emerge from the Spring/Summer 2012 shows was that leather is no longer the reserve of the winter months — with labels including Hermès, Céline, Balmain and Margiela all championing the material in its various forms. Winter’s leather shorts minus tights and teamed with a sheer blouse makes for an on-trend Spring/Summer 2012 look à la 3.1 Phillip Lim. However, if you do want to invest in something new in the material, lighter tones and minimalist cuts provide a far less wintery aesthetic — Topshop has a variety of neon colored leather jackets for Spring/Summer 2012.

Image: Balmain Spring 2012

Image: Céline Spring 2012

Image: A leather jacket by Topshop

Item to revive from Spring/Summer 2011: the pleated skirt

The influence of ballet thriller Black Swan on the fashion world for Spring/Summer 2011 saw an array of balletic silhouettes dominating the catwalk, and fashionistas who invested in the ubiquitous pleated skirt will be glad to know it’s back for another season. This style ruled the runways at Spring/Summer 2012 shows including Chloé, Etro and Erdem, and can be easily updated for the coming months. For example, combining with a crop top (big news at Spring/Summer 2012 presentations including Versace/D&G and Alexander Wang) will offer an edgier take on the style. Meanwhile, high street retailers including H&M have their own take on the trend, with pleated pencil skirts among the highlights for the coming months.

Image: A pleated skirt by H&M

Image: Silk Shimmer Pleat Dip Hem Skirt by Topshop

Items to swap: forget skinny slacks, go wide leg

Since their re-emergence in the early 2000s, slimline slacks have become a wardrobe staple and despite the palazzo pant’s brief moment in the spotlight for Spring/Summer 2011, wide leg trousers have been left in the sidelines. But this is all about to change for Spring/Summer 2012, after labels ranging from Nina Ricci to L.A.M.B. and Roksanda Illincic went for slouchy, ultra wide trousers — many with a high waist. The look has taken to the high street too, from retailers such as Maje to more mass-market brands including H&M picking up on the trend for Spring/Summer 2012. This look works best pared down with a simple T-shirt and ballerina shoes. Petite ladies should add wedges to avoid being swamped by all the excess material.

Image: Phoebe Philo for Céline, ‘Five perfect trousers’ – high waisted wide leg

Source from: http://lifestyle.malaysia.msn.com/fashion/tipsntrends/photoviewer.aspx?cp-documentid=5998647#image=1

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The Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic Draws Ladylike Glamour — Who’s Most Fab?

Posted on 17-Oct-2011 by bystyle

It may be October, but this weekend’s second annual Veuve Clicquot Polo Classic in LA proved the perfect place for celebs to showcase the best of their summery style. Styled celebs took the sunny outdoor event as an opportunity to showcase their ladylike dresses, retro-inspired rompers, and even a pair of chic shorts. Among the noteworthy arrivals, we spotted a Rachel Zoe in an elegant white maxi, Ali Larter showing off her gams in a sweet jumpsuit, and Jaime King in a ladylike Jason Wu dress. There’s more to see inside, so click through — then be sure to tell us your pick for most Fab in comments!

Zoe Saldana

Zoe kept it sweet and chic in floral-print Jason Wu.

Lauren Conrad

The reality star cum designer channeled a summery style in a light button-down and a pair of high-waisted shorts.

Cat Deeley

Cat stepped out in a soft halter maxi dress.

Camilla Belle

Camilla embraced an all-over print on her flowy little Ralph Lauren shift.

Lauren Bosworth

Lo channeled a little retro chic in a midi skirt.

Rachel Zoe

The stylist embraced the setting in an elegant white maxi and matching floppy hat.

Ali Larter

Ali chose a sweet romper with a daring neckline.

Jaime King

Jaime opted for a ladylike Jason Wu shift.

Source from: http://www.fabsugar.com/Veuve-Clicquot-Polo-Classic-Best-Dressed-19741812?page=0,0,0#1

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Spring/Summer 2011 Lace Fashion Trends

Posted on 10-Oct-2011 by bystyle

Romance is definitely dominating the trends of the next season, therefore it is worth taking a glimpse at the spring/summer 2011 lace fashion trend. These outfits would make you feel both feminine and voguish. Bring out the style fairy of yourself and stay versed with the newest tailoring patterns and lace designs for an A-list fashion season.

Experimenting with the upcoming fashion trends can be really thrilling and also challenging, however fortunately some of the time-tested tendencies are repeatedly re-invented and enriched with additional designs and design inventions. Those who are fond of the sensuous and dainty textures should try their hand at the Spring/Summer 2011 lace fashion trend which lines up a fabulous array of cocktail, red carpet as well as breezy casual chic outfits that would no doubt pamper your beauty sense.

Wear the stylish dresses as well as skirts and ensembles in general to stay chic throughout the next season and make the show-stopping style statement each time you attend a special event.The following designer collections would get you into the lacy groove in an instant.

Oscar de la Renta

Monique Lhuillier

Zac Posen

What could make the same breathtaking visual effect than a stylish dress sculpted of lace. The fine textures as well as the neat lines of the outfits and the feminine allure all the tiny details radiate all contribute to the mesmerizing look of romantic as well as body-conscious and hot glam apparels.

Choose from the line of classy black lace dresses that echo the Gothic romance atmosphere whereas white and colored lace would enhance your silhouette and aura with a more youthful and girly flair. The uber-architectural looks presented at Oscar de la Renta as well as the classy designs at Monique Lhuillier and Zac Posen all take us back into the past era when lace was crowned as the ultimate fabric that would take everyone of its feet.

Dolce and Gabbana

Ralph Lauren

Lace equals innocence and a blissful vision. Therefore designers as Dolce and Gabbana as well as Ralph Lauren decided to embrace it in order to set up a heavenly and purity inspired collection with all the angel-like models strutting in the amazing and perfectly structured dresses and ensembles.

From the stylish summer dresses to the cocktail attire and more pompous gowns, you’ll find the perfect example on how to rock the trend and stay true to your personality. White is indeed the color that would help you rise above the crowd and refuse to melt into the mass with your plain look. In spite of the uniformity of the shade lace can still make your appearance radiating and sight-catching. Pick the look that is the closest to your heart and make sure you skim through the Boho, vintage-inspired as well as modern and cosmo chic outfit ideas.

Alberta Ferretti

Vivienne Tam

Twenty8Twelve

D&G

If you would like to stay on the bright side of life, make sure you won’t stick to the neutral shades when it comes of classy fabrics as lace. Instead try out the endless tones designers offer to dress up your lacy outfit with. From the traditional and romantic nude to the more vivid acid yellow tones and black and white combo all would serve as the best means to build up your Boho chic or retro-inspired alternative apparel. Decide upon the basic clothing elements as well as accessories to master the art of accessorizing and mix/matching. Alberta Ferretti, Vivienne Tam, Twenty8Twelve as well as D&G would furnish you with the most alluring style ideas you can adopt in your boring weekdays as well as for a stylish shopping binge. Choose the idea that best suits your preferences as well as personality.

Photos via Style.com, ELLE.com

Source from: http://www.fashion-style.becomegorgeous.com/new_trends/springsummer_2011_lace_fashion_trends-2876.html

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Spring/Summer 2011 Trends to Watch

Posted on 27-Jul-2011 by bystyle

Let’s all forget about never-ending winter and start thinking about how to fill our summer wardrobe! Designers have doled out a good dose of colour for the warm days ahead – see for yourselves what you’ll be able to wear starting as soon as next month (Mother Nature permitting!).

Boho/’70s

Whether you have a hippie side reminiscent of Anna Sui and Cavalli or more of a bohemian-bourgeois vibe à la Marc Jacobs and D&G, the key is to go retro. The ’70s are back and embodied by a new breed of gypset: a mix of “gypsy” and “jet set,” darling! Inject a touch of craft into your look with crochet, fringes and patchwork.

Romantic/boudoir

Romance was on the runway at both Dolce&Gabbana and Charlotte Ronson in a combination of English embroidery, lace, floral prints and pastels. Don a bustier top, a slip and lots of peach tones and you’ll be all set to skip through the meadows! It’s the perfect trend for the heat waves to come.

Minimalist

The minimalist trend comes back year after year, and this time it takes a page from the ’90s and Calvin Klein. Think bare-bones design, shapeless cuts and unadorned styling. Take a peek at Céline and Stella McCartney for inspiration.

Tribal

For her L.A.M.B. collection, Gwen Stefani went nuts (in a good way) for tribal prints in both her modern, structured pieces and her asymmetrical and tiered dresses. Exotic bright colours and loud prints also graced djellabas at Etro and the body-con styles of Versace. There’s nothing like a little wildness to heat things up!

Sporty

The sporty look is holding strong again on runways this season, though it isn’t always successful in its transition to retail stores. The trend has either translated into techno-materials, in homage to the wetsuit at Marni, or to more straight-up gear that recalls the tennis garb at Tommy.

Urban safari

Travellers will be thrilled to know they haven’t been forgotten for spring! Eminently wearable outfits are paired with utilitarian bags, hats and flat sandals to make for an easy-breezy season for those who combine style with activity. Check out Hermès and Ralph Lauren for inspiration.

Tomboy

Balenciaga and Dsquared2 are turning us into boys this summer. Cue bermudas and men’s shirts – with rolled-up sleeves, of course! Word to the wise: On the Paul Smith runway a feminine touch was added with a pretty pointy-toed shoe.

Whiter than white

Everyone went with white this season (Rag & Bone, Hermès, Chloé), either in part or as a total look. When you think that even the prince of darkness (all-things-black Alexander Wang) focused on white and pastels this season, it’s clear this is a monster trend!

Flashy and fluorescent

While white was all the rage on the runways in September, its counterpart (colour) made quite a coup too. Miu Miu, Sonia Rykiel and Burberry (among others) all worked with fabrics in completely Kung Pow hues. Even those among us who are hooked on neutrals have to admit it’s a trend that’s plain eye candy!

Eastern promises

Vuitton set its sails for Asia this spring, which is a trend we haven’t seen in a while. Think nouveau kimonos, mandarin-collared shirts and fans that serve as accessories. Paul Smith played the part by using floral-printed satins, while Dries Van Noten made a collection of very pretty robe dresses.

Satin

Satin is the new velvet! Burberry, Miu Miu, Yves Saint Laurent, Stella McCartney and Lanvin are only a few that are having their way with the shiny fabric. Far from restricted to evening dresses, it’s now perfect worn in a combination of pants, tunics or pretty summer dresses.

Source from: http://www.louloumagazine.com/english/fashion/fashion_gallery/article.jsp?content=20110214_144017_14696&page=12

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