Awaiting the Angels

   Tonight jaws will drop all over the world as the Victoria's Secrets Angels put on their annual fashion show. As a sexy December tradition, many have awaited the over the top fashion show for weeks. The glitz, the glamour and the girls will all be back tonight on CBS!

    The models have been prepared and styled by only the best, and will be accompanied by stars tonight. Katy Perry, Akon, designer Zac Posen, Mike "The Situation" Sorentino, the Hilton sisters and fashion sensation Heidi Klum will all be in the audience watching the VS Angels parade down the runway. What will the show include? Bright colors, fit models, studded bras and over the top collaborations will be everywhere (as always).

   From the second the "pink carpet" is rolled out until the final runway walk, viewers everywhere will be speechless and another year will have gone by in fashion history. Tune in tonight at 10 and be amazed!

XOXO ZM

Fashion Flash Forward

   With New York Fashion Week behind us and fall trends slowly dying down, it's time to think about those spring styles. One of the world's most notorious designers, Marc Jacobs, has put together quite the collection for spring 2011. It resembles Missoni and classic YSL, with inspiration from the fashions of the 1970s. 

   Accessories played a huge role in Marc Jacob's resort collection. Wide brimmed hats, bright colors and scandalous monokinis completed every look. Peasant blouses, blazers, knit dresses, clunky heels- they were all there. With many other designers playing it safe with whites and neutral colors, Jacobs isn't afraid of creativity. His designs are the most precise in the industry and his runway shows are nothing less than impeccable. With models trotting down the runway to Vivaldi's Four Seasons, the show was more than a success. 

   There's no doubt in anyone's mind that Marc Jacobs brought life to New York's Fashion Week. Jacobs mentioned to the press that Yves Saint Laurent and New York Dolls were his "usual faves" and much of his inspiration for the collection was established in their designs. Walking in gold glitter platforms, his models owned the runway. Their presence, let alone Jacob's designs, was breathtaking. Carrying clutches comfortably in their hands, the models flaunted the designs with perfection. 

   MJ's Fashion Week show, along with every other Marc Jacobs runway show, was simply amazing. The colors, the versatility and mostly the surprising looks Marc Jacobs put together made jaws drop. He was truly inspired by seventies trends and by fellow designers. Sure you can find denim flares and long dresses just about everywhere, but the quality of Marc Jacobs' clothing can't be found anywhere but in his very own designs. Come springtime, the runway collection will be a hit and the media will be swept off their feet.

XOXO ZM

Anna Selezneva

   At the age of seventeen, Anna Selezneva was discovered at McDonald's and soon was signed with Silent Models and off to Paris. Selezneva has appeared in ad campaigns for top notch designers such as Guerlain, Yves Saint Laurent, Versace and Calvin Klein Collection. In November of 2007, Selezneva launched her high fashion editorial career appearing on the cover of Vogue Italia. Anna Selezneva has worked with world class photographers, walked notorious fashion week runways and faced the struggles of the fashion industry.

   Despite her young age, Selezneva has trotted down the runways of the most famous designers in the world including Lanvin, Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Valentino, Jean Paul Gaultier, Hermes, Yves Saint Laurent and Dries van Noten. Selezneva was even named one of Vogue Paris' top 30 models of the 2000s. 

    

   Anna Selezneva comes from Russian decent with some Armenian blood in her too. She was born in Russia but currently resides wherever her career takes her. With a degree in psychology, she's not just a model but a scholar. Anna Selezneva has said that she'll continue her studies once her modeling career slows down. Overall, Anna Selezneva has been a great success and a beautiful addition to the fashion industry. 

xx, ZM

When Fashion Goes Royal

   Princess Diana once lead England as a style queen, but it's Kate Middleton's time now. After eight years of courtship with her husband to be, William Windsor, the small town Middleton has a lot to be thankful for these days. Equipped with world class style, riches and fame and William by her side, Kate Middleton is one of the most versatile fashionistas to ever walk this earth.

  When the couple met with the media last Tuesday, Middleton's sapphire ring was a perfect match to her blue Issa dress. From polo tournaments to meetings with the press, Middleton is always style savvy. About to become one of England's very own royal women, Kate Middleton is always dressed classy. From blazers to boyfriend jeans, she nails every outfit. Style critics everywhere love Middleton and are eager to see what she'll be wearing when she walks down the aisle.

Cabin Fever

   Turning basic ideas into trends seems to be a popular theme this season. Knitwear such as crop top sweaters are all the rave for people with luxurious taste this month. As the weather gets colder, we'll be seeing more and more knit sweaters. So you can throw away that ugly Christmas sweater and pick up a trendy cropped knit.

   With Thanksgiving already here and the other holidays quickly approaching, there are more and more ways to dress up sweaters. Try wearing them with pencil skirts, skinny jeans and leggings. Adding a heel, riding boots or booties will complete your look by elongating your legs and making your sweater look more "croppish" per se. With a small peek at your stomach, crops have a small sexiness about the way they reveal. Stay warm, stay stylish, and save up for a sweater.

   An additional trend with sweaters this holiday season is the sweater dress. They've always been around, but now they're up and coming. When paired with the perfect knee high boots and tights, they portray a sense os style and add classiness to your look at the same time. Not to short and not too long, they allow you to show a little leg and cover up at the same time, which is rarely found in trends. They're perfect for Christmas parties and holiday get togethers and they're sure to keep you nice and toasty. Almost every store has them including www.revolveclothing.com which also has other amazing styles for this season. 

   So pick up a knit and a sweater dress, make jaws drop, keep cozy and enjoy the holidays. Happy Thanksgiving! 

XOXO ZM

Desert Dreams

   As Australian designer Stylestalker makes its Desert Fox collection debut, critics worldwide praise their grunge, edgy looks for this season. All of their clothes from this collection are daring, but when paired together right, they're simply genius. From dresses to blazers to shirts and pants, Stylestalker nails every look.
   Because Look Book was photographed by Zanita Whittington featuring model Bambi Northwood- Blyth, Stylestalker should have no problem selling the clothing. Many of the looks portray Bambi as an edgy girl, posing on a motorcycle with the perfect combination of sweet and sexy. 

   

   Stylestalker has outdone themselves again with a brilliant look book and creative designs for their new collection. With Bambi modeling the looks and Whittington shooting the photos, nothing less than perfection was expected. Inspired by a road trip through the desert, Desert Fox has impressed many already and will continue to impress many more.

XOXO ZM

Hue Knew

   The way to wear colors this season is head to toe in one hue. Designers such as Tory Burch, Oscar de la Renta and Tomas Maier have all taken this risk and have made it work. The term "matchy matchy" is now a compliment as many fashion experts say one color from hat to shoe is the way to go. 

   Before this season, colors wouldn't have been worn from head to toe thinking that'd be too flashy. But flashy is now trendy which makes it acceptable to strut your stuff. Previous to this season, people would match blues with purples, blacks with reds, oranges with yellows and so on. 

   But it's time to sport one color and one color only. This doesn't apply to everyday, if something is going to look messy in one color then don't dare put it on. Or do it like Oscar de la Renta, match the tones such as purples and blues. Oscar de la Renta's blue tweed suit with matching tights, and a bright purple frock and leggings combination was memorable and perfectly coordinated. Make jaws drop this season as if you've come straight off the runway. Trends aren't forever so take advantage of this look while it's hot! Never forget, less is more and keep it stylish.

XOXO ZM

Lanvin for H&M: Glamorous Runway Debut

   Last night at the Pierre Hotel in New York, beautiful people gathered around the runway to watch the models walk as they exhibited Albar Elbaz's Lanvin x H&M collection. The much anticipated fashion show was attended by starlets such as Anna Sui, Andie MacDowell, Tory Burch, Alexander Wang and many more. Not only did the audience have an enjoyable time, but the models strutting down the runway enjoyed themselves too.
   The runway, decorated with my favorites, hydrangeas, was colorful and inspired by Yves Saint Laurent, whom decorated his runways similarly. The models trotted down the runways much like before the 1990s having a blast and looking great. This collection will sure be a hit just as everything at H&M always has been. Although Elbaz's collection isn't the most affordable for all, ranging for $100-250, it's most definitely worth the money. With unique looks and styles that stand out, you can't find that just anywhere.

    All in all, the show was a success and the models definitely stood out. Bloggers report that model Anna Dello Russo stole the show while walking a poodle down the runway and set a wonderful atmosphere amidst the crowd. With Elbaz laughing alongside the audience, the show was a breath of fresh air for viewers. The relaxation, the fun and the creativity is what made the show what it was. If every fashion show were like this one, the industry would be so much more stress free. But that's what made Albar Elbaz's new collection so unique, and so amazing. Congratulations to everyone associated with this new line for H&M, I'll be sure to make a trip to H&M ASAP now.
   The designer behind the success shared that, "Meeting all of you here tonight and making all of you happy" was the best part of his collaboration with H&M. As for the collection, "I don't have any favorites -- I hate it all and I love it all." As for buying the clothes, they go on sale November 20 in Canada and the U.S. and November 23 for all of the other H&Ms in the world. So once again, nice work H&M, you always seem to impress us!

XOXO ZM

Custom Couture

   Juicy Couture's legendary tracksuits can now officially be customized! Want your initials on that cute Juicy zip up? You can now. For this holiday season, be sure to visit www.juicycouture.com to monogram your own tracksuit. 

   Although a tracksuit really isn't a fashion statement, Juicy Couture is the big league of (very) casual clothing. For lazy days, shopping trips and workout sessions, sport winter colors like blacks, purples, grays, browns, blues and greens while wearing your Juicy suits. They're always a comfortable and cute choice if you're just relaxing. The new monogramed suits come in a variety of 12 colors so you're bound to see a color you want.

   So remember when you're making your Christmas list or shopping online, don't forget that monogramed Juicy tracksuit. Despite having one too many Juicy suits, I know I can't wait to get my hands on a monogrammed one because fashion is nothing if you don't add a little something of your own.

XOXO ZM

Sergeant Stylist

   And here we are once again, back to that military theme. Combat boots? I bet you didn't think these would ever be style worthy, but it's okay, most people didn't. Shoes like Doc Marten combat boots are considered London street fashion, with many English trendsetters sporting these types of shoes on a regular basis. But here in the US, they're just starting to make a comeback slowly but surely.

   

   Looking at this picture, you might think who in the world would wear those, but in reality, so many people do. For my shoot in October, we were required to bring Docs with us to go along with the military theme. Throughout the photo shoot, I began to admire how they matched distressed jeans and a crop top. By the end of the day, I was already thinking of outfits to match them up with. When paired together with the right clothes, you can really make them work. You could even add them to an edgy dress and work in some chunky gold jewelry. There's a wide range of options with these boots this season, so you may be able to work them with more than you think.

   With models like Kate Moss and Agyness Deyn spotted flaunting Doc Martens, it helps advertise the idea of combat boots and make them seem all the more fashionable. If your style is prim and proper, I wouldn't suggest wearing combat boots. But if you're daring and willing to take chances with fashion, try them out. It can't hurt to experiment but it may empty out your wallet depending on how much you're willing to pay. With originals starting at around $130 (estimate), it's pretty reasonable for a leather boot. I'm sure there are boots sold everywhere that emulate Docs but you wouldn't be getting the same quality.  So try it out, take a risk and dare to be different because style is about creativity and individualism. Make trends happen-

XOXO ZM

Will the Real Lady Gaga Please Stand Up?

   Looking like a futuristic present of some sorts, you may be mistaken for Gaga herself while sporting this. It's a fun, blinged out ring with metal chains to wear as a necklace. I've honestly never seen anything like it but it could blend in nicely with so many different styles. Try pairing something like this up with a little black dress or even a casual outfit and it'll earn you major style points. As soon as I saw this, I had to do a brief entry about it because it's so unique. But watch out, it literally may be dangerously edgy! Ha ha ha.

XOXO ZM

Glitter Mixed With Rock 'n Roll

   Bold, yet simple? Absolutely. Designed by Urban Revisions, these iced out rings are only $36 and can be worn with anything, really. They're peculiar but aren't too daring. I mean, sure you won't be seeing them on many people but it's your chance to make a statement. Since they're clear colored, accessorize them with any color! It's an opportunity to add some edge to your style.

   Wearing a ring, or rings, like this can even resemble Lady Gaga and make you look like a rockstar. They glisten in the sun hence the title 'glitter mixed with rock 'n roll'.. Add this to your outfit and you're guaranteed a few compliments, if not many. And if you don't like these, big bling is in this season and you can find it just about anywhere. Edge such as this is in, so take advantage of it. Put things together that you normally wouldn't, match up mismatched jewelry and wear things like these rings. They're especially appropriate for wintertime since they look like little snowflakes! With an endorsement from some of fashion's most notorious magazines, these rings are definitely a must this season. Toodalooooo

XOXO ZM

It's The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

   It's that time of year when Starbucks whips out the holiday cups, Santa's at the mall, holiday sales are heating up and you can finally sport your Burberry scarf once again! The cold weather has arrived and so have some new designs from Burberry so don't worry about wearing last season's look. This winter you can keep warm and at the same time look like a rockstar.
   Sure a Burberry scarf is an investment in itself, but here in Massachusetts, I'd classify it as a necessity. Not only do they keep you warm and cozy but the softness on your skin is beyond comfortable. I'll even admit that I've slept with mine on because it feels like a blanket. Burberry patterns are classic and not to mention classy. Either under a jacket, or over a sweater you're sure to be warm and look fabulous.

   With the Holidays just around the corner, a Burberry scarf would be a prime item to add to your list. Stars like Gwyneth Paltrow, Blake Lively (pictured above), Will.i.am, and even Lil Wayne have all been seen flaunting their scarves.  

   Although you may be in denial about this upcoming winter, you can keep cozy and stay stylish at the same time. There are so many ways to do so like coats, gloves, hats but especially Burberry's classic scarf. So take a look at www.burberry.com and start saving up because they were all the rave last season, they're all the rave this season and they will be for every winter season to come. Like I said, stay warm, but most importantly- stay stylish.

xx, ZM

All About: Natalia Vodianova

Standing at 5'9", supermodel and philanthropist Natalia Vodianova has set the standard for many future models. Growing up in a poor Russian town, Vodianova has made the most with her talents. Equipped with gorgeous facial features and her tall, thin body, Vodianova has had nothing but success as a thirty year old model and mother.

At the young age of fifteen, Vodianova entered a modeling academy and learned to speak English. By seventeen, she was signed with Viva Models in Paris and began her path to fame. To date, Vodianova has walked in more than 175 runway shows for U.S. and European based designers' ready to wear and haute couture collections, has appeared in editorial spreads in fashion magazines worldwide and has completed advertising campaigns for Yves Saint Laurent, Marc Jacobs, L’Oreal Paris, Pepe Jeans, Diane Von Furstenburg, Louis Vuitton, Guerlian, Calvin Klein, Chanel and others.

By May of 2009, Vodianova had been featured on the cover of British Vogue seven times beginning with the issue of September 2003. She made her first appearance on the cover of the U.S. Vogue in the September 2004 issue alongside eight other models, then appeared as the solo cover subject of the July 2007 edition of the magazine. Vodianova is one of the only three models ever to be photographed on the cover of U.S. Vogue, while most covers feature celebrities.

 

Overall, Vodianova is a complete success. In March of 2010, she spoke about Health in Fashion at Harvard Business School in which I attended with a friend. She spoke about how at the start of her career in Paris she battled anorexia. But now as a woman and an experienced model, Natalia Vodianova has children of her own, resides in England and will be known forever for her beauty and talents.

xx, ZM

Mulberry Neely Tote

   Stars like Miley, Blake Lively, Michelle Trachtenberg and Olivia Palermo have all been see sporting Mulberry's Neely tote bag. The new leather bag is simple and can be worked into any outfit. You can wear it any season really, but it really collaborates well with winter clothing. The vintage style has found it's way back and fashion lovers everywhere will thank Mulberry for the return.

   While Michelle's tote is a stunning red and Olivia's and Blake's a basic nude, both colors fit wonderfully with leather jackets, blazers, cardigans and military colors. Whether you're walking down the street or to a business meeting the Neely serves at the perfect tote of briefcase. Want to get your hands on one? I know I do. Visit http://www.mulberry.com/#/storefront/c5721/c5873/ for the legendary bag and people everywhere will stop, stare and ask where you got that gorgeous tote!

XOXO ZM

Cardigans Galore

So this just in- the trend of the cardigan has swept across runways worldwide, and due to its convenient versatility, it is here to stay. The cardigan is a must-have garment and can be worn as a traditional, classic piece or simply added to an ensemble to spice up the look. When a cardigan is styled correctly, it gives the look of effortless sophistication. For women, a cardigan can be worn with almost any outfit at any time and adds class and elegance to every woman’s look. 

Cardigans can be just as versatile as denim, and this season they're more than just in style. If you're looking for a bold, yet simple look, wear cardigans that pop with bright colors, stunning stripes or flirty prints. Structured cardigans can be worn over a tanks, t-shirt or blouse. Ruffly blouses or babydoll shirts under a cardigan will give you a flowy look that will look cute and trendy. Look for cardigans made with lightweight fabrics and stylish design details including scalloped edges, belts, embellished beading or embroidered patterns. With lightweight fabrics, you can add more underneath the cardigan without overheating.

Cardigan sweaters can be long, short or cropped and worn with a skirt, dress, trousers or jeans. They can be worn with such variety, which makes them so popular. Don't hesistate to accessorize with a tote, scarf or ballet flats to complete the look.

   When stopping for a coffee at Starbucks, taking the dog for a walk or even just stepping out on the city streets, models and celebrities are always sporting cardigans. They're so simple to work into an outfit and you can buy them almost anywhere. And when the cold weather comes around, you'll be thankful you have a sweater you can sport with pride.

XOXO ZM

Brace Yourself

 Get ready to see straps, braces and buckles all over everything. As winter seems closer with each passing day, the styles are quickly changing. These bindings on winter 2010 clothes relate back to the fall military theme I predicted would influence future styles. But this is another look you don't want to overdue. You want to look bold but you don't want to go ballistic.
   Leather jackets, boots and belts are all a great way to vamp up your style. But where you wear the straps is crucial. Bridgette Raes tells StyleList, "If you are wearing a leather jacket with a bunch of straps on it, it probably isn't the smartest thing to wear a pair of black leather pants and wear your makeup super harsh. I prefer a more eclectic approach to the use of trends. For example, if a woman has this really cool leather jacket with straps, I'd suggest she water it down a bit and balance the hard edge with something a bit more feminine, like a great pencil skirt or tailored pair of pants."

All in all, this trend is easily to emulate for the average woman. Pick up a strappy jacket at Forever 21 or H&M if you're not willing to spend a lot of money, buy some booties at Aldo and wherever you see cargo pants, make sure they end up in your shopping cart! Great style will have jaws dropping and is proven to boost self esteem. Not to mention it's important if you want to look approachable. So be bold, buy some belts and make it work. But always remember to KIS- keep it stylish!

XOXO ZM

Blake Lively: Best Dressed

   From Gossip Girl to fashion icon, Blake Lively can always be seen looking her best. You'd think it would be hard to top the clothes on the Gossip Girl set but Lively's red carpet and street styles are always breathtaking. Whether she's in a simple blazer or a Dolce & Gabbana mini dress, Blake Lively makes it work.

   Making a debut in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, Lively has always captured the hearts of fashion lovers. She's sat front row are New York Fashion Week with Anna Wintour, walked world class red carpets, and stars on one of the CW's sexiest, most fashionable shows. Although she's a superstar and super well dressed, Lively is a typical young woman who loves her family and is thankful for her fame.

   "My style has been totally influenced from Audrey Hepburn and Kate Moss equally, they're such fashion icons. But Sienna Miller's young, urban style is also totally what I'm going for."

   No wonder she's so trendy. Audrey, Kate and Sienna have set the standards for modern day fashion. Is Blake Lively to follow in their footsteps? I guess we can only wait and see.

xx, ZM

All About: Kate Moss

   So I'm trying something new: weekly features on models I love. This week, I've chosen Kate Moss. The 5'7.5" English model has had many scandals, but even more success. Currently the face of David Yurman, she's had her run ins with the party lifestyle and has appeared in many ad campaigns. Moss' ads for Yurman are simply stunning and anything she's every done has been gorgeous.

   Growing up in London, Kate was never a student. In Addicted to Love: Kate Moss, author Fred Vormorel writes that, "Out of eight GCSE's she achieved one C (in Science) and all the rest were Ds, Es and Fs". But at just fourteen years old, Kate was discovered in JFK Airport by Storm Model Management and a star was born.
   Kate Moss couldn't avoid success in the fashion industry even despite her height, being shorter than most high fashion models. At just thirty six years old, Moss has had campaigns with major Italian, French, American, and British designers including Gucci, Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, Versace, Calvin Klein, Roberto Cavalli, Chanel, Longchamp, Yves Saint-Laurent, Rimmel, Bvalgari, Stella McCartney, Burberry, Missoni, Dior and Missoni. With all these campaigns, Kate Moss landed a spot on Forbes top-earning models list.
   Kate Moss is an all around success with a gorgeous face and a perfect body. She's introduced many new trends such as Ugg boots, ballet flats, Balenciaga handbags, Alexander McQeen skull scarves, and she recently brought back styles like blazers and ankle boots. 

   Moss isn't camera shy and she's edgy. She's not afraid to wear outrageous things and try new trends as mentioned before. Anything Kate Moss wears gains popularity. Of course some people don't like her but that comes hand in hand with fame. She's my favorite model and her work never disappoints me. If you love fashion, you love Kate.

XOXO ZM

Advertising

   As an avid reader of Vogue and Harper's Bazaar, I sometimes look through the runway fashions and think to myself, "Honestly, who would wear that?" This seems to be a common response because the styles are just so, out there. Couldn't they have just gone with the simple fall/winter looks? They would've looked great! But designers can't just go with the trends of the season, they have to go above and beyond even if it makes their models look outrageous.

   But why do they have to stand out so much? If their designs are standing out, then they're receiving press. And more press means more sales on their clothing, not particularly the ones shown on the runway but their whole collections' sales pick up. Alexander McQueen for example would have wild things on his runway models like the shoes Lady Gaga is always wearing, but he had some normal clothes available too. Designers have to think, "Well, how am I going to get the public's attention?" And as a result of this, they tend to go a bit crazy.
   So when looking through November Vogue, I'll try to think twice when I see some strange styles. When readers come across bizarre ads, it makes them remember the brand which is the tactic used to attract buyers. It's all just a trick to make you buy their clothing, so have a super Wednesday! That's all for now

XOXO ZM