Monday, May 31, 2010

Sunday, May 30, 2010

Style: Caroline S.

A while back the last of my favorite pairs of blue jeans ripped, in places a pair of jeans never should be ripped. I've found myself forced in wearing my summer dresses and skirts, despite of the sometimes dreadful weather.

And ever since I've posted the first picture of her on my blog, I try to keep Caroline Sieber-style in mind when I'm accessorizing my outfits. The style of Chanel Ambassador and stylist is always immaculate and dressy.

(Source: Jak & Jill)
(photo via The Fashion Spot: GettyImages)




If I could own her wardrobe and dress up like her all the time, I wouldn't miss my blue jeans for sure...

Saturday, May 29, 2010

Fashion Books - Wishlist


    Today is a gorgeous day, since the sun is shining brightly. 
    Unfortunately, I'm still stuck inside studying film history; the studio system, Orson Welles, German expressionism, French Realism, Spanish Surrealism and Italian Realism... 

The reality is however that, although I'm very much interested in the subject, I would rather be out in the sun, enjoying a good book without worrying 'Is this going to be a question on the exam?'

A while back I said I wanted the book on Alexander McQueen. Well, I've found some new interesting items to add to my book wish list  -I made my boyfriend promise that when we'll buy our future house, one entire room needs to be decorated as a walk-in-closet and little library. 

This is what I'm planning to get when I head over to the States. 


SImply because it looks like a great book for any communication sciences-student. Plus, as I mentioned before, Fairchild-books are amazing! 

Again, I'm very much interested in marketing. Sometimes it seems like people just believe that a person creates something, and then magically it appears in the stores. My internships have taught me otherwise. And since I'm not only fascinated by the garments designed by the fashion houses but also by its industry, I'm very excited to read this one. 

A few years ago, I wrote an essay for school on haute couture, ready-to-wear and mass-produced garments. I remember using an article on Dana Thomas' book, which focusses on accessible luxury ("an oxymoron" as she described it), mass-consumption and counterfeiting. 

I'm getting this one for my sister, since she's looking forward to the movie. Plus, my grandmother's niece worked for the family, so maybe she's featured in the book/movie as well. Maybe, during our monthly calls, we need to ask her if she's read it ... Furthermore, it apparently mentions Tom Ford's rise and Gucci being caught in the middle of PPR and LVMH. 


So, what's on your 'Fashion Books-Wishlist or Must-read list'? 

In the meantime, I'm back to my non-fashion related courses... 

Friday, May 28, 2010

Prêt-à-Portea

Normally, each year during the month of May and September, my boyfriend and I head to London for a little getaway and shopping spree. This month I'm too busy working for school and in September I will be working. And this while just now I've discovered that The Berkley hosts the cutest afternoon tea, called Prêt-à-Portea.

When I saw the pictures of their fashion designer inspired desserts and sweets, I wished our plane towards NYC would stop in Heathrow for a few hours. Check out their Anya Hindmarch-sponge cake bag and the Chanel-clog, too cute!


Sex and the City - Product Placement

Quote of the day:

"Sex and the City 2 (...) brandishes enough product placements to embarrass a Formula One driver..."
(Telegraph.co.uk, 25/05/2010)



This morning I was reading some SATC2 reviews -like this one for instance-, when this little line mentioned above made me smile.
Wednesday I'm going to see the movie during a so-called 'ladies night' at our local theatre. I am excited to see the movie, but I can't help but feeling that I won't be able to enjoy the movie since I probably will be watching it with a 'I-wrote-my-thesis-about-this-subject-and-now-I-can't-help-but-criticise-the-film-constantly'-perspective. No fun at all.

So, which of you have already seen the movie? And what did you think? Are the film critics right?

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Alexander McQueen's Future

A few months ago, PPR stated that it would continue the Alexander McQueen-brand, so immediately everyone started speculating who would be named as the label's next creative director, and even if he ever could be replaced at all...

Today, word got out about his follow up; Sarah Burton, assistant to the designer, will be in charge of the brand. She already was put to the test when she had to finish off the fall 2010-collection, right after the sudden death of Alexander Lee McQueen. Plus, she has the experience since she has been working for the label for 16 years.

Hopes are high. And I am quite curious on what the next McQueen collection will look like.

What do you think; Can one create a whole new collection, stay true to the legacy of the house and give it their own twist? Or will it be practically a copy of what McQueen was doing the last few seasons?

Whatever the outcome, I think she's facing a huge challenge...


(picture: David Burton / Source: Vogue UK)

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

The Sartorialist Interview

Tonight the interview Patricia & I got to do with Mr. Schuman will air on JIMtv's Spotlight.
(at 4.45pm - 8pm - 10.45pm)

I'm so terribly nervous, just like during the conversation with him. Hopefully we asked the 'right' questions and come off okay, since we are not professionals -which we stressed several times during the interview- and we were not prepared at all.

Fingers crossed.



Oh and a big thanks to An for giving us the opportunity!

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Spring 2010 / Latanie Design

My birthday parties were fun, yet small and simple since the exams are coming up again. Yes, I'm back inside so I won't be able to enjoy the sun -not that I sunbathe or anything, as you can tell. So I love looking back at these pictures of last weekend, when my sister and I passed some time outside in our neighborhood.



And as a birthday gift, Natalie of Latanie Design made a fun design for Shark Attack! If you love supercute images, you definitely should check out the blog. Plus she hand makes fun earrings and pendants for necklaces, which she sells online... By the way, today is her birthday: Congratulations, Miss!

Sunday, May 23, 2010

True Colors

Yesterday was my boyfriend's band last show.
It was the craziest show I've ever been too. People were so enthusiastic that they climbed up on stage all the time and were stage-diving like crazy. I didn't see a thing of the whole set, since I was cramped in some angle somewhere behinds tons of True Colors-fans.

I know this post isn't fashion related but I don't care. I just want to congratulate all four of them on their achievements the past five years. Well done.


(bad quality, music wise but these are some images of last night...)



And now, my birthday party - part 3. I'm off.

Friday, May 21, 2010

Princess Dress-Up

My mom and sister just gave me the cutest (fashion) birthday card ... Thank you, love love love!


And now, I'm off to my weekly dinner with my dad and boyfriend...

Il Gattopardo

During the final presentation of my Fashion-vs.-Film-thesis, I need to convince the jury that the subject I researched was relevant in a scientific way. Well, yesterday I found a new 'reason why' to add to the list.

Fashion and film are two area's that are constantly on the move, and when both domains unite they create a powerful and dynamic synergy. And here's another example of how they are constantly evolving;

Only last week I handed in my thesis and yesterday already I found another great example that I could've mentioned in the study: Apparently Gucci is a dedicated contributor to Martin Scorsese's Film Foundation! With the money the fashion house donated the film director digitally restored Visconti's Il Gattopardo (1963), which is a masterpiece of the Italian neo-realism film. Next project: La Dolce Vita by Fellini.

Frida Giannini said that Gucci has a long history with film dating back to the 1940's and that they are proud to keep these vibrant, timeless films alive.

Well done, Gucci.



Thursday, May 20, 2010

New York City

So, apparently I must have talked to my boyfriend too much about how NYC is my favorite city in the whole world and how much fun we had there last summer. Yesterday, for my birthday, he surprised me with a 6 day-trip to the city... I'm very excited, since we already are heading over there in less than a month, the day after my final exam!

And now I would like to ask you to share your favorite places and shops in New York. It will be my third time in the city and I want to try something new....



His DIY-birthday card:

Don't buy fake!

Before coming up with the idea of writing my thesis on film and fashion, I was considering doing some research on counterfeited designer goods, since I always have had some firm beliefs about the issue. Alas, it didn't fit the subjects that are being analyzed at our Communication Sciences-department... but I've always kept a close eye on what was being written about it...

Yesterday I came across this article about the Harper's Bazaar Anticounterfeiting Summit, which is very interesting.

So, I can't stress this enough when the subject comes up during a discussion;


Don't buy knock-offs!
As the article mentions, the money these people make on selling fake goods has been used in the past to fund terrorism. And their 'employes' have to work in horrible conditions (think: kids & sweatshops) and make very little money. Furthermore, often toxic materials and substances are being used, that can be harmful to your health. Additionally, you harm the brand -that you supposedly love so much- creatively by wearing a knock-off. You're only destroying what your favorite designer is working so hard for.

I often find it funny how some people believe that no-one can tell that they're carrying a fake bag and that there is no difference in quality. Yes, one can tell. And yes, there is a huge difference. And even if there wasn't, then you shouldn't buy the product because it wouldn't be respectful towards the brand. Are you willing to drive a car that looks like a Ferrari but has been made in some third-world country and tell all your friends that it's the real deal? No, you wouldn't do that either. And how can one say that he or she "loves fashion so much", but is willing to hurt the industry at the same time...

Do save, save, save!
If you just absolutely need to have the designer bag of your dreams, just save for it. I'd saved up at least six months before I got the chance to buy my first Balenciaga. Same thing goes for all of my other 'designer items', I've worked hard for those and cut back all of my other shopping. When I wanted a skull scarf, I didn't buy the Zara-version first and complained how I wanted the one by McQueen. No, I just saved every penny and after working two whole days at our local H&M-store I hopped to Liège and bought myself the jester-version of the late designer. And now, I still keep it in a nice box and treasure it, I would never have done such a thing with knock-off.  To me, quality is more important than quantity.

And for those that use 'I didn't know that it was I fake when I bought it'-excuse; you can find how to spot a fake ...-tutorials all over the internet! (e.g. Balenciaga) And if the retail price is too good to be true, it probably is; a fake!

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

The Sartorialist

Never-mind my odd smile. I'm just thrilled I met the man...

Mr. Scott Schuman

Krizia and I have been writing and talking about the event so much lately, that when finally the day of the meeting arrived, we were speechless for the rest of the day. Yesterday was kind of surreal for sure.


Oona had invited us -as 'fashion bloggers'- for a roundtable meeting with the renowned street style photographer. And it was a great experience; listening to what his thoughts are on style and what his vision of The Sartorialist is. 

Mr. Schuman comes off as a passionate person with a great love for what he does, not someone who takes it for granted, you know? Although he made a little joke from time to time during the conversation, I -unlike others there- do think that he takes his 'job' very seriously. I got the impression his experience in the fashion business has something to do with his success: not that he knows the right people, I'm sure he does, but he just sees the project as a brand. As something that needs to be perfect, consistent and of high quality at every time. But unlike some other brands, he does not compromise when it comes to his own work. When I asked him how he balances the commercial aspects -e. g. his project for Burberry 'Art of the Trench'- with his personal beliefs of style and his own integrity, he mentioned that when he's signing contracts he makes sure that the brand, which he is cooperating with, are hands off of the blog. And that he'll only put up pictures of the project on The Sartorialist he is comfortable with. "It's just that level of honesty and integrity, that's what [the brands] are buying into [when we are doing projects like this]" Mr. Schuman said.

Some communication scientists say that blogs are all about integrity and credibility. After yesterday, I can only say that The Sartorialist is just that...


Thank you, Mr. Schuman
and thank you, Oona and Maasmechelen Village!



And now for some good old fashioned childlike excitement;
did I mention that Patricia and me got to interview him for Jim Tv???
We were so nervous and didn't have the best questions since it was all done spontaneously... but Mr. Schuman is the best, he gives the best and longest answers, so we got our 10 minutes filled up perfectly!
Watch Jim Tv next week on wednesday night for the report!


Click on the pictures to enlarge them - credits go to the Oona-photographer!












Pictures my sister and I took 




Back home... 



More pictures to come... 

Monday, May 17, 2010

Sex and the City - Product Placement

I know you probably expect me to upload the rest of The Sartorialist-pictures, but I want to take my time to write the post since it has been such an overwhelming day. Anywho, If you care to see the pictures, you can always check my sister's blog, she's made a nice review of our day...

Just a moment after I decided to head off to bed, I came across this article and I am shocked! Remember how I tried to count the number of product placement / signature designer outfits in the Sex and The City 1? Well, the article basically says that tomorrow a 'style guide' (500 pages!) will be released for fans who want to obtain the SATC-look, and off course all of the outfits will be credited...

I had a feeling that the sequel would be more of a long commercial than a real story, but this time the product placement and tie-in team is really pushing it... And it's getting on my nerves actually. In my thesis I say that fashion films offer the designers a great platform to place their designs in an unobtrusive and natural way in a story... but Sex and The City has lost just that! The film, not even in theaters yet, already feels forced and unnatural.

Such a shame.

Anywho, I'm I the only one who feels this way?
This I do know: I am going to mention this on the presentation of my thesis to the jury! Curious to find out what my promotor thinks about my opinion on this evolution...


Pictures we took in NYC during the shooting of SATC2.


-What seemed to be- carefully picked out Burberry and Henri Bendel bags as product placement! 

The Sartorialist - Blogger Event

Today was amazing! Not only did we get to meet Mr. Schuman, - such a nice and friendly guy!!! - but I got to meet up with some of my old friends, who by chance were also invited to the blogger event....

So before I put up any pictures of our day, I wanted to present you some of these cool bloggers!



Me -yes, I finally wore my Proenza-dress!-, the lovely Marie from Oona, Miss Patricia from 
Dit Geheel Terzijde & Belmodo.tv and Mr. Michaël from Belmodo.tv
Stèv from Monieur/Mademoiselle and Otto from Otto Vankerkhove



Sunday, May 16, 2010

The Sartorialist - Tomorrow

I'm looking forward to tomorrow's meeting with Scott Schuman and seeing some of my friends again!



More teaser-pics on my sister's blog.




Saturday, May 15, 2010

Dior Film 3

Just a quick post to let you know that Dior's third Lady Dior-film, by David Lynch, has been released!




edit: okay. a bit odd and somewhat boring from time to time. I still love that bag though...

Friday, May 14, 2010

Fashion/Film Thesis

Content: Check!
Spelling: Check!
Lay out: Check!
Print it: Check!
Hand it in: Check!

Give the final presentation: To do...

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

The Sartorialist in Maasmechelen, Belgium!

I am still figuring out what to wear upcoming monday for our meeting with The Satorialist!

I really have no clue...
My purple Proenza Schouler-dress maybe, but I have no cool heels and bag to pair it up with unless I go for the black combo. Or just a LBD with nice accessories, but I'm guessing that will just be plain boring...
Unless I can borrow some cool vintage items from my aunt and my sisters and can make it look like this;



courtesy of Style.com

Btw. If you are planning to visit Maasmechelen Village this monday, visit Facebook for more details!

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Chanel Short Film

And speaking of Chanel-short films;
Remember Now is airing later today on Chanel News!


Update:
Oh my, the outfits look great!
I want, no, I need that silver dress, one of those tweed jackets and the silver nail polish!
and Leigh Lezark' style, please!




(source: Chanel News)





SHORT MOVIE IN SAINT-TROPEZ
Part of the cast are actors Elisa Sednaoui and Pascal Greggory in the leading roles alongside Jean-Roch, as well as models closely related to the House of Chanel: Freja Beha, Jake Davies, Magdalena Frackowiak, Baptiste Giabiconi, Sébastien Jondeau, Karolina Kurkova, Abbey Lee, Leigh Lezark and Heidi Mount. 
The film is to be released on May 11th for the 2010 Cruise show.

Monday, May 10, 2010

Film and Fashion: Coco Chanel

Apparently I've missed this film, 'cause I had no idea this movie was released in Belgium back in January... Has anyone seen the film yet? And is it any good? I've heard that it's somewhat slow? But from what I can tell from the trailer, the mise-en-scène is beautiful, as well as the costumes the main character is wearing... 



Coco Chanel & Igor Stravinsky


I told you many times about Lagerfeld's short films for Chanel, but did you know that Gabrielle Chanel worked for Hollywood? Sam Goldwyn 
offered her one million dollars to design for MGM in 1931. But after a 
year she left the industry since she supposedly didn't get along with 
Gloria Swanson, whom she dressed in Tonight or Never. Bruzzi 
states that "Chanel was inflexible when asked to tailor her style to 
the needs of the film or to divest her costumes of the understated 
chic which had become her couture trademark" (1997, p. 3).


Btw. Bruzzi's Undressing Cinema-book is a must read for anyone who 
is interested in film and fashion! It helped me out for my thesis a lot.
Check out Google Books...

Baldessarini

I know that Baldessarini is a 'boy brand' but their latest sunglasses look amazing and very cool. My sister tried out some of their glasses -it looks great on girls too, right?- which are around 160 euro.

But Marie, from Oona, mentioned that Baldessarini carries a line as well with ivory details, which are being retailed for around 1700 euro. So your boyfriend must have been really sweet this year if you're planning to get him a pair for his birthday....


Friday, May 7, 2010

1.2.3

I remember, when going shopping with my grandma when I was a little girl, she always visited the 1.2.3-store. But when my sister and I came across the stand of the shop at the Oona-press days, we were shocked! No longer is it a brand for 'the older ladies', cause we fell in love with some great pieces... we couldn't believe the transformation of the brand, but we are thrilled with our re-discovery!

As some of you know model  Eva Herzigova is the face of the brand but she designed some pieces too.
Eitherway, the 'non-model' collection of the brand surprised us as well

Here are some of our favorite pieces and I can't wait until they hit the stores...
I loved the 1910-1920 inspired dress (will look great with a chuncky belt!) and the jacket that reminded me of Burberry's aviator-collection!






Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Beyonce

A friend of mine, a guide in Antwerp and blogger, posted Beyonce's latest video on my facebook page earlier today, which the question: what do you think of the styling?

And I must say I've been a fan of her 'new style' for a while now, but this clip is my favorite up until now.
D&G underwear, Chanel Nouvelle Vague-nailpolish and what I think was a Chanel-belt; I love her quirky fifties style...


"Why Don't You Love Me" - Beyoncé from Beyoncé on Vimeo.

The Sartorialist in Belgium!

So
my sister and I decided to make a facebook event page about the event, since we didn't want to keep it to ourselves on facebook!

If you care to join, visit The Sartorialist @ Maasmechelen Village ...

See you then!


Shark Attack - Fashion Blog

Promoot jouw pagina ook

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

The Sartorialist at Maasmechelen Chic Outlet Village, Belgium!

Ever since my sister and I found out, we've been freaking out every time we visited his blog or just heared someone talk about it!
So here is the big news:

Scott Schuman, aka. The Sartorialist, is coming to Belgium! 
Yes. Thé Sartorialist. 
Yes. In Belgium. 
Yes. For real. 

Since there is a exhibit running at the Maasmechelen Chic Outlet Village in my little hometown, which is totally free and runs from the 14th till the 17th of May, Mister Schuman will be visiting the Village and the exhibit on the 17th of May in the course of the day!
And,
at 4.30 PM he well be signing his first book 'The Sartorialist'!
Copies of this book will be available for sale at the Maasmechelen Village Information Desk.
So mark the date on your calendars, but you probably already did...

Both my sister and I have been invited by the lovely people at Oona for a personal meeting with the famous blogger, where we will discuss street style and fashion blogging along with some other cool bloggers!
So keep a close eye on our blogs for pictures and news and total adoration in the days after!
I can't believe it's only less than two weeks away!
Excited!


Monday, May 3, 2010

The Sartorialist

Wondering why my sister was peeking inside of Scott Schuman's book, when we got to the Maasmechelen Village Outlet Shopping-display?

We both will tell you all about it when we got the confirmation mail from Oona later today! No need to tell you how excited we are...



Still in love with those black Pinko-boots. They are now available at the outlet-store!

Oh and If you haven't bought the book yet, you definitely should check Amazon. The book now costs about half of what it originally was. Only today I ordered a copy for my boyfriend and my sister, and the estimated delivery date is thursday. You just got to love Amazon!