So Sleepy…

Too much fashion, not enough sleep…

Image from Cup of Jo

Fiery Stare

Somewhat recently I picked up the habit of wearing eyeshadow on a daily basis.

It makes me feel a bit more grown-up and professional even though it is nude and probably invisible to everyone but me.

So, though I am no eyeshadow-pro, I have been very excited by the dramatic eye makeup seen on the runways for Fall 2011. Many designers (Vena Cava, glitter!) featured gorgeous eye makeupbut none was so striking and fabulous as Thakoon did for his show.

The eyes were the finishing touch on a visually rich showing; definitely an early favorite for the season. Even though they are quite over the top, the look is so cool and intense that it is something I just might be inclined to try.

Photos (and product breakdown!) from Makeup for Life

Julien Macdonald

We are a few days into the London chapter of fashion month and I have to say, so far the presentations have been rawther serious.

Silhouettes have been structured, color has been dark, I have seen very few prints overall.

And yet, even when the tailoring means business, there are still some moments of lightness.

Take for example the latest collection by Julien Macdonald. Usually known for his knitwear, Macdonald makes a statement for Fall with a cheeky theme.

Inspired by the UK version of Nora Roberts this collection is imagined for the heroine of racy, british romance literature.

This translates on the runway into chic, inspired outerwear for a British countrywoman with provacative, couquettish whisps of dress underneath.

I love the juxtaposition and I especially love the sharp tailoring in which equestrian buckles evoke bondage straps and capelets and skirts are cut away to reveal almost lingerie-like evening wear beneath. Rrrowl.

All images courtest of Style.com

Diane von Furstenberg

Although she showed toward the beginning of NYFW, I didn’t want to forget to tell you about the Diane von Furstenberg show.

DVF is more than a well-known designer, she is an absolute icon for the modern woman.

My favorite thing about her collections is of course, her prints which are always strong, bold and command attention which is much like what I imagine Diane to be like herself.

The Fall 2010 collection was a particular standout because it incorporated the element of suiting which is a fresh addition to the line.

In true DVF character, the suiting pieces are not androgynous but all-out feminine. Pairing chiffon rosettes with a grey wool suit, a heavily embellished blazer over black jumpsuit and slouchy blazers with full flirty skirts.

Something about the collection felt a bit French gamine. Whether it was the slim tailoring, the  cropped lengths or maybe just those incredible incredible hats.

All images courtesy of Style.com

Suno

Finally I get to write about one of my most favorite fashion lines, Suno.

I have been an avid fan of this line since first reading about it over a year ago on Refinery29.

As a textile designer, I love (love!) their bold use of mixed prints and repurposing of traditional African textiles. The resulting look is fun and exuberant but also totally sophisticated and chic.

For the latest collection, Suno is also incorporating some original print designs into their presentation.

The line showcases some of the trends we have seen elsewhere on the runways such as velvet and tailored wool pants but, it always goes back to the incredible prints which are the line’s unmistakable calling card.

There isn’t a thing from this collection I wouldn’t be thrilled to wear well, except for maybe the hair…

All images courtesy of Style.com

Prabal Gurung

One of the designers generating a lot of pre-fashion week buzz was definitely Prabal Gurung.

Gurung has found favor recently with celebrities on the red carpet and for good reason, the man makes an excellent party dress.

With incredible draping and super-luxe fabrics (don’t get me started on how much I love that shiny stuff), Gurung’s dresses remind me of the work of Alber Elbaz, mastermind of superlabel Lanvin.

The collection also featured exquisite tailoring and a pared down colorblocked palette. The pieces are clearly beautifully made but with a subtle, futuristic edge. I am excited to see who is wearing Gurung come Fall and what he brings us in seasons to come.

Although I don’t have any fancy parties to coming up on the roster, here are some of my favorite dresses from the collection.

All images courtesy of Style.com

Boy by Band of Outsiders

Much of my upbringing happened in a suburb outside of Detroit, Michigan and as a result I my style has always been and will always be just a little bit preppy. Even so, you won’t catch me wearing plaid pants or pink polo shirts anytime soon.

This said, I always love the clothes from Boy by Band of Outsiders. Their smart shirts and jackets are the perfect mix of classic American style with urban sophisticated cool.

The line’s Fall 2010 presentation stays true to their personal brand of chic. I love the nod to suburban country club culture with spectator golf shoes, wool cuffed trousers, fur accents and blue oversized sunglasses.

This wool tailored vest/mini skirt combo is a particular favorite. I love the mixing of different stripes, the towering platforms and slicked back perfect-ponytail.

Oh, and how can I not love a fashion line that hosts a cookie blog on their website titled

If You Don’t Like Cookies, You Might Not Have a Soul

Yes I do like cookies, and I certainly love the clothes.

Here are some more of my favorite looks:

All images courtesy of Style.com