J. Mendel Fall 2013

If you're going to do fur for fall, do it well.  The most fashionable of these is multi-generation label J. Mendel. The designer created highly modern pieces for Fall 2013 at NY Fashion Week for today's customer.  Long vests, collars, cuffs and gorgeous handbags are some ways to wear fur today. If you have a moral objection to fur however, there were plenty of luxurious looks that did not involve any animals.

Metallic brocade separates, long flowing gowns with sequins and elaborate embroidery, bias seamed satin were all elegant details that allowed the J. Mendel client to wrap themselves in the same amount of luxury with or without fur.  

As an embroidery designer, I drooled over these beautiful art deco inspired beading patterns.  Feeling like a contemporary Daisy Buchanan flirting with Gatsby? The embroidery looks so fantastic because of the delicate lines are all running down the curves of the body which is incredibly flattering.

I can's say every look was a success.  There was this one jacket with a fur peplum...What kind of woman wants a thick furry piece wrapped around her waist?  

The handbags were in traditional silhouettes, but the materials were ultra-luxe, with crocodile, mink, fox and treated leathers.  My personal favorite was that trimmed mink clutch with the jeweled handle.  Love. Want. Christmas is coming...

Will you be incorporating the fur trend into your fall wardrobe?

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Badgley Mischka Fall 2013

I have covered husband/wife duos, sister acts, mothers and daughters... Now I am happy to profile the fall 2013 collection of newlyweds Mark Badgley and James Mischka.  Before the aisle, came the runway, and it was a gorgeous one.  

There were many dresses of black and gold metallic, two colors that I came to associate with Badgley Mischka over the years.  They were pretty of course, but I have to say I love the blush and raspberry colors more.  The bright white had an almost retro feel to it, being executed in slim, column silhouettes that looked rather Grecian.  The beading and crystal embroidery was a cross between art deco and Aztec geometric patterns.  The large motifs in bugle beads, the waistband, neck or shoulders in crystal. 

The footwear included velvet peep toe heels with cute bows.  They didn't exactly match the clothes, but they were pretty all the same.  Handbags included square and oblong clutches in color block mixed with houndstooth or metallic.  The hair was pulled up in vintage Hitchcock glamour with classic Hollywood beauty makeup.  

Whether it's Mezo-American, Greek or Gatsby, there's a Goddess in all of us and we have every right to dress like it.

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