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Showing posts with label Fashion Features. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Fashion Features. Show all posts

Tuesday, July 3, 2012

History Lesson: Marilyn Monroe


I was watching the movie My Week With Marilyn a few weeks back and realized how little I actually know about the bombshell leading lady. She is, in fact, from an era long before our time (unless you were born before 1962).

Born Norma Jeane Mortenson in 1926 to an absent father and a mentally and financially unstable mother, Marilyn spent her childhood in various foster homes in the Los Angeles area. In order to prevent her from going back into the foster care system, in 1942 Marilyn married her then current boyfriend, James Dougherty, as her first of three marriages.

She began modeling while her husband was off at war, and dyed her natural brunette locks to her signature golden blonde. She caught the attention of a Twentieth Century Fox executive, who suggested changing her name to a more "sexy" and alliterative Marilyn Monroe. She and her husband divorced and shortly after in 1947, she landed her first small film role.

Marilyn quickly gained popularity among both producers and the public and continued her upward rise to fame in Hollywood. She starred in a number of big hit films that portrayed her as a "dumb blonde," catapulting her success as a comedienne and sex symbol. Her most notable films included How to Marry a Millionaire, Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (in which she sang "Diamond's are a Girl's Best Friend"), The Seven Year Itch, Some Like it Hot, and The Prince and the Showgirl. She was briefly married to Joe DeMaggio in 1954, and then married playwright Arthur Miller in 1956.

While Marilyn's life seemed to be teeming with success and grandiose parties, there was an underlying negativity that pervaded her personal life and eventually lead to her death. She proved to be a rather difficult actress to work with, often having fits of stage fright and showing up late or not at all. In The Prince and the Showgirl, costar and director Laurence Olivier remarked that although Marilyn was quite the stunning actress, she was rather difficult to work with.

Despite winning an Academy Award for Some Like It Hot, Marilyn's health deteriorated and she began consuming large amounts of alcohol and seeing many different doctors to have access to a number of drugs. She and Arthur Miller divorced in 1961, and shortly after she spent some time in rehab facilities. On August 5, 1962, Marilyn was pronounced dead at her home in Los Angeles, with an autopsy confirming the death was due to acute drug poisoning and a probable suicide. She was 36 years old.

I put together a look based off the famous photo of her wearing a white plunge v-neck dress with the street vents blowing up the dress- yes, you know the one. Modern and classic at the same time, and with plenty of pretty baubles. It's perfect for a night of club hopping in Hollywood dodging paparazzi-  or just drinks with the girls. Don't forget the red lipstick!



//Image source//

Monday, July 2, 2012

Designer Spotlight: Missoni

Known for their vast collections of knits bearing bold geometric patterns in an endless array of colors, the dynastic Italian fashion house Missoni is one of the world’s most influential and innovative brands. The empire is currently headed in Milan by the second generation of Missonis, and staffed additionally by the third generation, furthering not only the brand but also the jet-setting and forward style the founders fashioned so masterfully.

In a nutshell, it all began with in London with an uncomplicated love story. Ottavio Missoni, an athlete on the Italian National Track team, was competing in the summer 1948 Olympics in London while Rosita Jelmini, also from Italy, was there to perfect her knowledge of the English language. In short, the two married five years later. In the same year, the two set up a small knitwear workshop, following in the steps of Rosita’s family.

The 1960’s were a significant time of expansion and recognition for the Missonis, whose dresses began to gradually appear in fashion magazines, leading the way with dresses in endless patterns inspired by Art Deco. They moved into a larger workshop and perfected the rayon-viscose fabric blend that would eventually become their iconic favorite.

Today, the power designing couple has handed the reigns of the fashion house to their three children Vittorio, Luca, and Angela, who took the place of her mother as creative director. Angela's daughter, Margherita, serves as the accessories designer and unofficial muse.

The Missonis, with their wholesome looks and values, have served as one of the foremost fashion houses for almost sixty years. Their beautiful graphic and iconic prints have certainly made their mark in both fashion and graphic design history.


Image Sources: Left- Resort 2012; Angela, Rosita, and Margherita at Missoni for Target; SS 2009 campaign; Missoni at the Museum of Everything; Right- Camilla Belle at Missoni for Target; vintage ad campaign, Ottavio and Margherita

Friday, June 29, 2012

Friday Fancies: Beach

This week's Friday Fancies (join in at Long Distance Loving!) theme is rather beachy and has me wishing that I lived closer to the shore. I suppose for now the lake or pool will have to do. In the meantime...



And don't forget to wear sunscreen!

Cheers!

Alphabet: B


Monday, June 25, 2012

Designer Spotlight: J Crew




J. Crew is perhaps one of the most iconic brands for smartly-dressed men, women, and children all around the world. With cleans lines, beautiful silhouettes, and impeccable quality in both fabric and make, the company has created a vast empire of cashmere and classic button down sporting followers who crave cult favorites such as the No. 2 Pencil Skirt (now on sale!) and Italian Leather Classic Ballet Flats

J. Crew began twenty-nine years ago in 1983 solely as a mail-order catalog company. The eighties were a time when catalogs were major revenue makers, with companies like Lands' End and L. L. Bean at the helm of the competition. Originally called Popular Club plan (until 1989), J. Crew aimed to create looks similar to the "Ralph Lauren" style but at a lower cost, in other words, leisure wear for the upper-middle class. 

In 1989, the company officially became called J. Crew and opened their first flagship store in downtown Manhattan. Since then, more than 300 retails stores have opened nationwide, including J. Crew, J. Crew Factory, and newer more on-trend sister store Madewell

I will be honest. If I could wear only J. Crew, I would. Yet, my college-student budget does not always allow for such a thing. In the mean time, I think I'll browse old catalog spreads and The Pink Peonies, who wears J. Crew in almost all of her outfits (flawlessly, I'll add). Preppy and classic perfection.

Cheers!

Friday, June 22, 2012

My Friday Fancies: Color Blocking

I honestly love the color block trend, mostly because it discards old rules of wearing too much color and opens up the wardrobe to create endless combinations. For the most fearless, there are few color combinations that do not work.

Color blocking is, obviously, the theme for this week's My Friday Fancies, hosted as always by AV of  Long Distance Loving. I immediately took to the world wide web to find inspiration for this little segment and was very struck by a particular color combo: red, pink, and orange. While it strongly evokes one of my least favorite holidays, Valentine's Day, I still can't help but fall in love with the romantic and bright color pairing (even if it does remind me of my single-hood). And, I guess it does remind me of two of my favorite designers, Kate (Spade) and Tory (Burch).





Splendid Tee//Giulietta Skirt

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Thursday, June 21, 2012

Baubles and Baubles

I know that I just did a roundup of jewelry, but I was browsing Bauble Bar I couldn't help but spend a good little bit of time pouring over all of the pretty art deco-like pieces they have right now and mentally pairing them with my own outfits for a fun night out on the town (if only!).


Most of you are probably like me in that you know somewhat what the term "art deco" means, and can peg a few buildings (The Chrysler Building in NYC), pieces of jewelry, and runway collections to the style. I decided to do a little bit of research to help understand the concept more. Here's the gist of the art deco movement.

The term art deco was coined in the 1920's in, of course, Paris. It encompassed architecture, art, industrial and interior design, fashion, jewelry, and more, and focused on glamour, elegance, and modernity. Art deco ideas drew ideas from earlier twentieth century concepts such as cubism and modernism and influenced many other well-known movements such as pop art and film noir (look for more on these two later!). While a lot of artistic movements are based from philosophical beliefs and ideas, art deco is solely, well, decorative, and draws from the geometric shapes of the classical Greco-Romans, Aztecs and ancient Egyptians. Faceted, crystalline, and repeated features are a common characteristic of an art deco piece, as well as the use of materials such as chrome, lacquer, and wood.

Old-fashioned yet modern, bold yet streamline, austere yet ornate. I'm really loving this trend Bauble Bar has going on right now. And the best part? It's all so wonderfully affordable. So please, indulge yourself in a little bit of old Hollywood glamour. It's a revival that can only be considered necessary.

Friday, June 15, 2012

My Friday Fancies: Copy Cat

There's something about Audrey Hepburn's persona that is so winningly endearing, especially as Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany's. So why not emulate the gorgeous gal in the classic film?


Thursday, June 7, 2012

My Friday Fancies: A Short Story

Starting today, I will be linking up with AV of Long Distance Loving and a ton of other bloggers from around the web for My Friday Fancies. This week's theme is short and sweet, inspired by- of course- shorts! Join the party here!



A Day at the Park: Picnic

It's a little (or twenty degrees) too hot here in Texas to be any grade of relaxing outside. For those of you that live a little further north, or perhaps for those of us down here who happen upon a cooler day (doubtful), ring up some friends, grab your pup, pack up your most delicious lunch and head to the park for a sweet summertime picnic.

Throw on a no-fuss outfit with minimal jewelry and some easy-to-move in sandals. This chambray shirt is perfect- light and airy and completely versatile. I'm a little embarrassed to say that I've only recently discovered just how versatile they are. They are the perfect balance to a colorful bottom half. If you don't have one, head to your nearest retail district immediately and buy one. Immediately. If you're more on the graceful side, pull on something along the lines of this fabulously striped nautical dress from J. Crew. You may need to sit on a bench for this one.




Unsure of what to whip up to throw in your picnic basket? Follow suit from the Mediterranean and make a fresh Greek couscous salad (feta and olives- delicious!) and a grilled vegetable and hummus wrap. Don't forget a watermelon- they are perfect at this time of the season.

Hurry- grab a blanket and go before summer runs its course!

Wednesday, June 6, 2012

For the Love of White Shirts!


There are few things more crisp and classic than a white shirt. Be it the all-purpose button down, a clean silk blouse, or a casual tee, there is nothing quite like this adaptable article. With pants, a skirt, and shorts of all colors, styles, fabrics and patterns, it is sure to be your go-to piece. Personally, I think Olivia Palermo does it just right!






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Tuesday, June 5, 2012

Art Meets Fashion: Cocoa & Hearts

Sometimes simple and colorful is best. I love artist Jen Ramos' vivid and brilliantly hued brushstroke paintings that come out (and quickly sell out!) every so often on her website Cocoa and Hearts. She uses a delightful array of colors in her work, always bright and in beautiful combination. Jen has another design platform called MadeByGirl that creates paper goods and prints (remember this?), and a delightful blog also titled MadeByGirl that features interior design, fashion, and other lifestyle bits.

You'll be seeing a lot of new weekly/biweekly/monthly features and other changes on The Corner Apartment in the next few weeks, including today's Art Meets Fashion. Taking cue from a number of other bloggers who do a similar feature, I figured inspiring an outfit from art, considering my love of art (and oncoming art history minor!), is an excellent way to combine culture and fashion. Expect "real-life" artists such as Jen and historic greats like Picasso and Derain as well. I hope you enjoy!



Monday, June 4, 2012

Designer Spotlight: Milly

After studying at FIT and working at renowned fashion houses such as Hermes, Louis Vuitton, and Christian Dior Haute Couture, Michelle Smith set out to create her own line with sophisticated and elegant details. Thus, Milly was born in 2001, debuting collections with timeless silhouettes, clean lines, and perfectly preppy feminine qualities. Using luxurious fabrics of bright prints and colors, Milly faultlessly creates modern styles with a vintage air. Milly has a flagship boutique in NYC on Madison Avenue and is sold in fine department stores such as Neiman Marcus, Bergdorf Goodman, and Saks Fifth Avenue all over the world.



Where to find:
Brushstroke Kali Strapless Dress//Vivienne Sheath Dress//Haley Trapunto Dress//Calais Striped Tube Top Dress//Julia Dress//Darcie Combo Dress//Sari Beaded Dress

//Runway pictures//

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Adorned Wrists

I have always loved a pretty statement necklace. Throw one on over a silk blouse or a plain tee and you're ready to go. Other than wearing a few signature pieces (watch and bracelets) on my wrists, I've never been too much into elaborate arm adornments. However, designers such as Ann Taylor and Kenneth Jay Lane have created a number of beautiful bracelets that are certainly game-changers for me. These affordable and alluring pieces are the perfect complement to whatever little (or large) stack you already have going. Pile on!


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Monday, May 28, 2012

For the Love of Gingham!

Long reserved only for picnics and the preppiest of fraternity boys, gingham has made its way to be a most versatile pattern for daily wear. Pair with colored skinnies, tuck into a skirt, or throw a sweater over it- the possibilities are numerous. Take a cue from these bloggers around the web and stock up on the checkered treasures.


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Friday, May 25, 2012

A Hint of Leopard Part 2

As promised, here is part two featuring belts and shoes! I will be the first to raise my hand and say that I obsessively watch the Kardashians. All three (or however many they have nowadays) shows, tirelessly. But I can only get so much of their high-end meets Jersey shore animal print fashion strategies. Take a cue from these pictures, and add a spot of leopard to jazz up an outfit, colorful or not. It many ways, it's considered a neutral, so don't be timid! It's very possible for animal print to be refreshing.


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Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Silk Blouse

Never, under any circumstance, underestimate the power of a silk blouse. Perfect for all seasons and with any type of shorts, pants, or skirt, it is the essential wardrobe basic to build upon and create a fabulous outfit. Pile on the necklaces, wear a statement piece, or throw on a scarf to complete a marvelous and put-together top look.


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From the Stores:

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A Hint of Leopard Part 1

I can't handle it in Kardashian proportions, but sometimes, a little spot of leopard is a good thing. Especially when it comes to accessorizing. It seems to have become the perfect neutral companion for those who need a neutral don't want to appear boring. Wearing nautical stripes? A neon blouse? Mint pants? Add a little leopard.


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Look for part two tomorrow: belts and shoes!

Friday, May 18, 2012

Monogram Madness

Who doesn't like a nice monogram? Half for the sake of personalization, the other for the sake of being preppy, it's hard to stay away from these shiny initialed baubles. Whatever your fancy, these glossy ornaments can perfectly compliment any outfit on any occasion. Quite the lustrous staple.



Top:
Tortoise Cuff
Gold Monogram Necklace
Magnolia Raised Charm
Block Monogram Earrings

Middle:
Signet Ring
Monogram Bracelet
Script Monogram Earrings
Slim Signet
Turquoise Enamel Pendant

Bottom:
Monogram Disc Necklace
Acrylic Monogram Necklace
Silver Monogram Earrings
Monogram Chain Bracelet