Timo Weiland Fall 2013

Fashion editors like to toss around phrases like "urban camouflage" and utilitarian a lot with fashion.  I think that's often BS.  However, with Timo Weiland's Fall 2013 collection, I actually see how that applies.

It's kind of funny how two male designers, Timo Weiland and Alan Eckstein, understand the mind space of a a cosmopolitan woman who likes the idea of a rugged uniform look or camo pattern, but will only execute it in a sophisticated, feminine way... The camouflage motif was done in an elegant sweater with sequins.  Military colors were translated into georgette or leather.  The aviator jacket was made like a tailored blazer.  The looks on the runway were a cheeky take on several fashion cliches and I thought it was very clever.

This collection is a lot like how I dress "for the country" which leaves my Hubby shaking his head.  Reminding me that I just don't "blend" when I wear a severely tailored silk crepe plaid blouse and dark indigo skinny jeans.  It's the same as a flannel and denim isn't it?  So what if my work boots are Miu Miu?

Timo Weiland's catwalk serves as a reminder that a diva can be a diva no matter what the trend might be. Ha!

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Monika Chiang Fall 2013

The designer went to the birds for inspiration for her Fall 2013 collection.  Monika Chiang had a dream where she took flight, then found a photo exhibit birds at the Modern Museum of Art.  She was fascinated by the images of their wings in flight.  

How did this translate into real clothing?  You can see the chain embellishments fanned out like wings, and sheer, full chiffon tops that flow down from the shoulders like feathers.  The designer was also inspired by vintage aviator uniforms and their tailoring.  This resulted in a great mix of utilitarian silhouettes blended with soft, feminine details.  This was a collection I would love to wear myself.  I liked the military, structured edge to jackets and pants.  I loved how they softened by flirty silk dresses and blouses that border on evening wear. 

Monika Chiang is definitely a designer who seems to work in the way I was taught to.  Start from a cerebral muse and then flesh it out in a well, thought out, edited collection that serves as a full wardrobe.  I think this presentation looked great and wish her the best!

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MIAMI SWIM WEEK: Agua Bendita 2013

Columbian design duo  Catalina Álvarez and Mariana Hinestroza gave their own tribute to the troops during their  fashion show last night.  There were sexy, witty prints all over sassy bikinis.  Camo prints were paired with tailored sailor jacket cover-ups.  Military style medals accessorized strategic body parts.  


Other prints included vintage glamour illustrations, tribal patterns and palm trees for a distinct South American flair.  This show was quite a popular one among the photographer's pit.  Perhaps it had something to do with the models technique of unveiling of the bikini tops (see top photo). 

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