Art[s]ense: Ryan Rader for Dolce & Gabbana F/W 2013 Collection

As you know, I am a huge fan of Ryan Rader so this F/W season, I have invited him to illustrate something cool for Dolce & Gabbana. All I can say is this piece is very abstract and it is not your average fashion art work. If you want to read about his description of this painting, please head over to Swide now!

Walk the Walk: Christian Dior S/S 2013 Collection

All eyes were on Raf Simons today as he finally presented his first ever RTW Christian Dior collection. This was a rather safe collection as there were many wearable pieces. I would not be surprised if the black blazer is going to make a lot of revenue for this collection as it is a piece every lady can wear.

Other than the black ensembles, there were also some insect's wings inspired pieces which were really stunning. The metallic touch gave some of the pieces a fresh and futuristic vibe when the models were walking on the runway. Also, it was impressive to see Raf using the 2-tone cloths to make amazing pieces, especially the colour combinations were pretty eye catchy.

It was a very nice and safe collection for Raf's Dior RTW debut. However, there was a little downside to this: The collection reminded people of the old Christian Dior designs and the Jil Sander designs Raf did few seasons ago. It may need to take him sometime to explore what elements will make "Dior by Raf Simons" unique.

Still, it is nice to see Raf is finally back to the RTW womenswear fashion scene.

Pros:
- The insect concept is not new, but just picking the abstract pattern of the wings and interpret it in Raf's way is fresh.
- The tailoring of the blazer is great and it should be a great seller for this collection because of the simple design. It can be worn to different occasions.
- I like the metallic touch on some of the pieces. It really gives a cool vibe to the collection. (This element shows great in the runway video)
- I really like the shoes. It seems like Raf is not letting the metallic shoe trend die yet.
- The makeup of this show is flawless. I wonder if people will want to wear this kind of makeup to events very soon.

Cons:
- This collection reminds me of old Christian Dior designs and also the last 3 collections Raf designed for Jil Sander. It may take him a little bit more time before people start to say it is an original Christian Dior collection by Raf Simons.

Eye Candies:
- Black tailored blazer
- White blazer dress
- Metallic skirts
- Nude/yellow dress with holes
- Metallic floral long dress

Please click here to see the complete collection. (You should also watch the runway video here. It's better than the photos)

Fashionist[On The Go]: Anne Hathaway's Wedding dress is going to be designed by?

It's time for some celebrity fashion news!

Most of you should know Anne Hathaway is going to walk down the aisle soon and of course, everyone is curiously who is going to make her wedding dress. Well, the answer is revealed and Valentino is going to be responsible for this piece of art. Can you imagine having a retired designer to design a wedding gown just for you? I probably would not be able to sleep for days. [Read Here]

Anne must be thrilled to have Valentino designing the wedding gown for her! (source: the Fashionist)

Walk the Walk: Gareth Pugh S/S 2013 Collection

Gareth Pugh presented a dark and moody S/S 2013 collection during Paris Fashion Week and I loved it!

While the goth element still existed, clearly this collection was influenced by the oriental traditional clothing. Gareth gave his own spin on this iconic traditional pieces (such as Kimono) and they turned out to be stunning and edgy. Even though there were only 3 main colours, the collection was not boring at all because of the fiery red. This colour gave a positive vibe to the collection.

After so many years, I am still a big fan of Gareth Pugh. I hope Gareth will continue to grow his empire and bring back his menswear show sometime in the near future!

Pros:
- The oriental influence can be clearly seen in this collection. I like how Gareth has used some of the oriental traditional clothing as reference and put a Gareth Pugh twist on them.
- Black, silver grey and red, these colours suit the collection very well and helps to connect all the pieces together.
- I really like the makeup of this runway show. It's bold, futuristic and a hint of mysteriousness.
- I really like the designs on some of the sleeves. They scream futuristic to me.

Cons:
- It's less dramatic than the other collections Gareth has created, but still, this does not really affect the collection after all.

Eye Candies:
- Black kimono style jacket
- Silver grey jacket with flare sleeves
- Red drape dress
- The final red ruffle gown
- The makeup!

Please click here to see the complete collection.

Trendology: The Burberry Regent Street Collection

I still remember while I was looking at the photos of the Burberry Prorsum S/S 2013 show, somehow I came across a gold feathered trench coat (image below). While I thought Christopher Bailey might have pulled this piece out of the collection, little did I know this piece actually belongs to a more exclusive collection.

To celebrate the launch of the new London flagship store at 121 Regent Street, Christopher Bailey and the Burberry design team have produced an exclusive A/W 2012 collection for the store. This collection contains a lot of archive pieces, but with a new colour twist. For people who have not had the chance to purchase the iconic pieces back then, this is a good chance for you to head to London and try this collection on. Aside from trench coats, there is also an accessory collection which each piece is also coming from the Burberry Prorsum archives.

Graphicology: M/M (Paris) Presents: The Givenchy Files

Reason number #2056564 why I like Riccardo Tisci: He is willing to push the artistic limit by collaborating with different artists for Givenchy. Today, part of this success is recorded in this book.

M/M (Paris) has just released the latest book (1,500 copies in total and numbered) from the "M/M (Paris) Presents" series and it is all about the Givenchy invites. Ever since 2007, M/M (Paris) has been responsible for creating invitations for the womenswear, menswear and haute couture runway shows. The invitations are very graphical and experimental at the same time. They also show how Givenchy has evolved over the past few years. I am not going to lie, it will be very sweet to have this book on my table right now since I have been a fan of Riccardo Tisci for quite some time now.

If you want to purchase this book, you can either go to the M/M (Paris) online store, or Givenchy flagship store in Paris, or selected bookstores such as Colette.

Trendology: Threadless X Disney T-Shirts Collection

Even though I always wear dress shirts at public events, deep down inside, I am always a t-shirt fan. As you may also know, I am a huge animation fan, especially the ones from Disney. So when Threadless (a great graphic t-shirt community) announced the collaboration with Disney (a contest, to be exact), my heart just skipped a beat.

This capsule collection is all about Disney Villains and the chosen ones are: The Evil Queen, Maleficent, Ursula, Cruella De Vil, Dr. Facilier, Jafar, The Queen of hearts and Captain Hook. Artists were asked to create t-shirt prints based on these villains and the Threadless community voted the best ones. Out of all the designs, the Hook received the most votes and Brian Cvejanovich, the designer of this shirt, was awarded $5000.

Honestly, there are some very nice designs and I just cannot decide which one I want the most. Apparently, this collection is selling very fast so I recommend you to purchase the designs you want before they run out of sizes!

All Powerful

Hook

Magnificent Maleficent

Ray of Inspirology: Àstrid Bergès-Frisbey by Simon Procter

Life is good when Simon Procter continues to show me his latest works!

Procter has recently shot Astrid Bergès-Frisbey, a Spanish actress and model, for the latest issue of Vs. Magazine. This portrait series really shows the elegant and dark side of Astrid. The images also remind me of the paintings from the Baroque period (emotional, intense and dramatic). What do you think?

Stylist: Barbara Baumel
Hair and Headpiece Creation: Vinz at B-Agency
Makeup Artist: Anya de Tobon

Ray of Inspirology: Gangs of New York

As many of you may know, I am a huge fan of fashion photographer Simon Procter. Today, it's my pleasure to share this latest editorial shot by him for Stiletto Magazine. The brands I can spot in this series include Fendi, Prada, Chanel, and Mary Katranzou. Procter continues to produce some very surreal images and the composition of each image is very interesting. This series is going to give some good inspirations for emerging photographers.

Ray of Inspirology: Jason Km for BlackBook

Sometimes, makeup, hair and styling will turn something usual into unusual, and below is a great example.

This editorial is shot by Jason Kim for BlackBook October/November issue. Jenna Earle and Alena Blohm are clearly hitting a jackpot here because Christopher Campbell has picked some of the best pieces in this season for them to wear. The styling here is unusual (but in a great way) as I have never thought putting a nose ring will change the vibe of certain brands (e.g Miu Miu). Of course, the makeup by Walter Obal and hair by Thanos Samaras have enhanced the looks of the models.

This editorial is very refreshing and it proves your portfolio is going to stand out if you have the right stylists to work with a fashion photographer. Bravo!

Please click here to see the complete series.

Grapicology: F/W 2012 Illustrations by Natsuki Otani

I am always a fan of Mert & Marcus' photography works because of the "acid wash" effect (the colours are slightly off with colour tints to give the surreal vibe) on them. Today, I discovered this illustrator is giving me the same feeling with her fashion illustrations.

The following F/W 2012 illustrations are done by Natsuki Otani, an Japanese illustrator who is based in England. They are from the first issue of Station Magazine. As I said before, I really like her works because of how she twisted the original colour on the pieces a bit to make them look vibrant and surreal. The Alexander McQueen and the Prada one are definitely my favourites from this entire series. If you want to see more of her illustrations from this series, you can click here.

Walk the Walk: Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2013 Collection

Dolce & Gabbana S/S 2013 menswear collection was a preview of the womenswear show that happened today in Milan. The Sicilian culture was truly reflected in this collection with bold prints, ceramic accessories, and the use of materials. Who would have thought Muslin bags could turn into chic dresses, or ceramic figures could turn into earrings? In this collection, Dolce and Gabbana wanted to tell you imagination is limitless.

One of the most iconic looks of this season was the raffia black organza dress. It not only reminded me of the amazing F/W 2013 collection, but it also showed how the 2 designers constructed a perfect dress for an elegant lady.

This collection brought a very happy vibe to the fashion industry and till this moment, it has to be my favourite collection out of all the shows in Milan Fashion Week. What's your take?

Pros:
- The prints were amazing in this collection. They truly reflect the liveliness of Sicily.
- Well executed concept. If the designers didn't have a clear vision, this concept could be very cheesy.
- Hessian was a cool material in this collection. One of the models was wearing a brown hessian dress which reminded me of a rice bag, but in a very chic way.
- The use of raffia was very cool in this collection, especially the last number - that raffia dress was an instant killer.
- Ever since Dolce & Gabbana started to work on the jewellery line, the collections have never disappointed us. In this collection, the ceramic earrings were fantastic.
- The handbags were pretty and different. They should be a hit next season.

Cons:
- N/A

Eye Candies:
- All the print dresses
- Hessian dress
- Black and white stripes suit
- Raffia corset
- Raffia corset dress
- Colourful festive handbags
- All earrings in this collection
- The red wedges with face at front.

Please click here to see the complete collection.

Trendology: Votary Reversible Deluxe Knitted Scarves

Fall is upon us and recently I have found this amazing knitted scarves and blankets brand from Kickstarter that I want to share with you.

Votary is a new brand based in New York and the designer behind it is Luigi Bianco. Aside from making blankets, he also designs the knitted scarves and I am falling in love with them. These scarves have great designs (I especially love the American flag design) and they look very cozy.  From the descriptions, they are all made in USA, non-scratchy, double paneled (to provide extra warmth) and have reversible design. At this stage, the designer is still raising money at Kickstarter and it has already passed the target mark. I am excited to see these scarves in production and each scarf will be most likely selling at $75US. If you ask me, I think this is a very reasonable price.

What do you think? Will you want get one to keep yourself warm?  

 Courtesy of Votary

Walk the Walk: Prada S/S 2013 Collection

Miuccia presented a rather interesting, and daring S/S 2013 collection during Milan Fashion Week. The reason I say that is because this collection was on the line between brilliant and awful. 

At a glance, the collection was strongly influenced by the Japanese culture. It was amazing to see how Miuccia deconstructed a traditional kimono and turned it into some modern pieces. The ink-like floral prints were also very refreshing as they would remind you of the Japanese paintings. Of course, a Prada collection would not be completed without some amazing accessories such as floral handbags and floral sunglasses (I promise the Harajuku girls will die for them). These were the brilliant parts.

On the other hand, the Prada version of Zori (Japanese sandals) were very interesting. There is no doubt a lot of people will want to rock these sandals out next season but quite honestly, they do not look too appealing at all. Some of them had too many details while some were just too simple to a point they did not look too attractive. Also, the patchwork was interesting but it might be better to see it not in rectangular form. Maybe Miuccia just wanted to make the outfits to look raw?

Without a doubt, this will be a very sellable runway collection; however, there is also a question popping up in many people's mind: is awful the new beauty? If you answer yes, then this proves Miuccia has once again pushed the fashion world to a direction. Again, you will be the judge to say if this collection is brilliant or awful.

Pros:
- The futuristic Japanese lady concept is cool. The Prada girl is both feminine and bold.
- The Zori (Japanese sandals) are very interesting, which I have a good feeling a lot of people will be wearing them next season. (However, there is also cons to it)
- The inspired Japanese floral print is cute.
- I actually really like how Miuccia deconstruct the kimono and makes it her own creation.
- The glasses and the bags are very feminine and cute.  

Cons:
- The concept of the Zori is very interesting,  but it is also the thing that I believe the design can improve.

Eye Candies:
- The Zori (Japanese sandals)
- The floral bags
- The glasses
- Black dress with orange floral print

Please click here to see the complete collection.

Fashionist[On The Go]: It's all about London Fashion!

Let our brains travel to London for a second here...

I am a huge Robbie Williams fan (his latest single is so great!) and I am excited to know he is launching his own fashion line finally. The line is called FARRELL and it includes the basic pieces a British gentleman should have: shirts, sweaters, blazers, trousers, and coats. [Read Here]

Since I am a fan of Williams, I may want to get something from this collection! (source: the Fashionist)

One of the highlights of this London Fashion Week was the Philip Treacy S/S 2013 show. Treacy's hats were mached by clothing that were once worn by Michael Jackson. It was magical and of course, Lady Gaga had to be there to support her friend by opening the show for him. [Read Here]

Lady Gaga in a hat that was once worn by Isabella Blow, quite iconic. (source: the Fashionist)

Ray of Inspirology: Prada Real Fantasies

The reason I always have a special place for Prada is because of the brand's artistic value. Real Fantasies is always the look book I look forward to the most out of every brand because it involves graphic design, illustration and fashion.

F/W 2012 is the most elegant and edgy collection from Prada I have seen in years. While I thought the Real Fantasies would have something to do with the royalty, to my surprise, the entire look book is about future and it looks very bright. I see a lot of inspiring imageries and I think they can be some new resources for graphic designers and arts students.

Now I am curious on what theme Prada will be doing for the next Real Fantasies.

Please click here to see the complete look book.

Trendology: White Cashmere 2012 Collection

I am still kicking myself right now for not being able to attend this year's White Cashmere show, but at least I have this amazing look book set to show you.

Today marked the 9th annual White Cashmere Collection: Fashion with Compassion runway show and it was once again curated by Farley Chatto. Just like past years, designers needed to use bathroom tissue to make couture pieces and the designers/brands were: Anomal Couture by Sonia Leclair, David Jack, Izzy Camilleri, Adrian Wu, Ashtiani by Golnaz Ashtiani,Rodney Philpott Designs, LABEL by Shawna Robinson and Natalie Sydoruk, LuShyne by Lucci Rojas, Laura Siegel, Al Shakour by Suhaila Niazi, Cara Cheung, DRōN by Joël Bissonnette, MMCrystal by Michelle Merizzi, Jewelry by Karen McFarlane and shoes designed by Yvonne Lin for Town Shoes.

Every piece in this collection is incredible but if I need to pick my favourite one, it will have to be the dress designed by Golnaz Ashtiani - it is stunning and beautiful!

From now till November 19, you can head to this page and vote for your favourite design. White cashmere will donate $1 to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation for every vote. So, what are you waiting for?

Golnaz Ashtiani

Joel Bissonnette

Adrian Wu

Walk the Walk: Gucci S/S 2013 Collection

Are you ready for wearing bright colours (one single solid colour, from head to toe) again for next season? If you are not, then you will have to accept the fact - Frida Giannini wants you to do so.

The new Gucci collection is very vibrant in colours and Giannini is bringing us back to the 60s era. I really like the funky sleeves and also it seems like tunic is back on the fashion trend. Aside from solid colours, Japanese floral print has made a very memorable appearance on the runway, which I am absolutely in love with the red version.

As for the eveningwear, Giannini presents a black and white series with some interesting details such as net and ruffle. I always believe Gucci women are unique and elegant, and this series proves me right again.

Overall, this is a very nice collection to hype us up for spring 2013!

Pros:
- I love the vibrant colours, especially the pink.
- The Japanese floral print is pretty and it works very well with the brand.
- The sleeve design is interesting and it should be a gimmick for next season.
- Ruffles make ladies look sexy so I am not surprised to see many ruffle pieces in this collection.
- The plastic jewellery pieces are fun and chic.

Cons:
- The shoes. Just like other brands, I was expecting more from Spring 2013.

Eye Candies:
- Pink dress with puff sleeves
- Red floral print ruffle dress
- Black dress with puff sleeves and net details

Please click here to see the complete collection.

Trendology: Gap x GQ's Best New Menswear Designers in America

Truth is, I have not been that excited for GAP since the last time I could remember. This is just a powerful line up!

On September 27, Gap is going to release a capsule menswear collection. The designers who are involved in this project are nominees of the GQ's best new menswear designers 2012. The line up includes Johan Lindeberg from BLK DNM (also the winner of best new menswear designer 2012), Ian Velardi, Mark McNairy New Amsterdam, Ovadia & Sons, Saturdays NYC and Todd Snyder.

I am in love with most of the pieces because they are versatile for different occasions and really suit my aesthetic. Also, the price point is very reasonable (from $20 for a pair of boxer briefs to $348 for a leather bomber jacket) so I have a very good feeling I may spend some money on few of them, especially the Ovadia & Sons series!

If you are looking for some nice pieces for this season, make sure you mark down September 27 on your calendar and head to Gap on Bloor, Queen West or at Eaton Center for a chance to purchase this collection!

Ovadia & Sons 

Mark McNairy New Amsterdam

Saturdays NYC