Safra Ducreay

Posts Tagged ‘H&M’

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Global Musing: Toronto

In Fabric, Fashion, Fashion Heat, Global Musing, In the Know, style on June 7, 2010 at 4:34 pm

I want to say welcome, but that’s kinda lame, so I’ll get to the point.

The brilliant idea of trend spotting switched on a head bulb. I know – don’t ask. The idea of style stocking is so passé that it’s now a washed-out global phenom. Style Photogs are scoring book deals, landing front rows at revered fashion collections, and becoming the point-of-reference for a slew of pop-up Trend agencies.

So why, you ask, would this idea only occur to me now? Well, I scoped it in a certain magazine (that shall be nameless), and I felt it was done so colorfully, so originally but yet, so vaguely, that I had wanted to rip the idea and take it a step further. I want to grab trends from every crevice of the planet. And that, my friends, takes dedication. While I won’t be doing it everyday, I’ll defo be plugging it in once a week (to start). And I have a goal. I won’t share my goal (that’s why it’s a goal), but it’s a feasible one. So here we go.

Toronto guys, for the most part, have an uncategorizable style. One minute it’s eurotrash, the next it’s hipster punk. But lately, the T.O guy’s been rocking a mod-sportif ;  hi-tops – preferably Cr8tive Recs, or Supra - add futuristic funk to an otherwise semi-bland jeans-hoodie combo. Most up-town guys are big on G-Star, but they are, thanks to the cities thriving downtown hipster culture, starting to catch on to American Apparel. But you know, AA’s sweatshirts are being upstaged by the purposely ‘ragged’ staples found at Urban Outfitters or Gap. And that Parisian chic scarf, almost annihilated across the pond, is still going strong here. Distressed Diesel jeans are back with a vengeance, but come to think of it, they never really went anywhere, anyway.

Toronto Ladies are a special bunch. They’re prissy, pretty and completely untouchable. That’s right. They’re shopping like fashion editors. And they’ve ripped their outfits straight off the tear sheets of their favorite society magazines (and H&M) which means they’ve got the confidence to talk their way into the hottest happenings in the city. And not only will you have to buy them (and their crew) drinks and dinner at five-star spots, you’ll have to lavish them with – Marilyn Monroe said it best – Tiffany’s. The T.O girl’s upping Toronto’s ‘it’ style ante with super-short, or maxi-long. She’s got her minx on, she’s a fixture at Sephora and Holt Renfrew. However, vintage is a serious trend in Toronto, and she’s suddenly been empowered by the consignment store. Now, Chanel bags and Marc by Marc Jacobs dresses are right on par with her expenditure budget.

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Musing: Moises de la Renta

In Collection, Fashion, Men, Shopping, affordable, designer, steal, style on March 2, 2010 at 10:33 pm

It’s one thing to be a talented black man, but a talented black who’s ‘heir’ to the throne of a revered couturier? To call life a colorful soirée of  dainty-ism is probably an understatemet. But despite his rising fashion icon success, he comes across as a down-to-earth guy. After reading this, he’d probably roll his eyes. He’s probably not really interested in being perceived as a ‘black man in fashion’ anymore than just a fashion man.

But we already know fashion’s limited circle of authentically talented black professionals, and it doesn’t take even the common-est commoner to understand that the fashion world can be an air-headed balloon at least 99.9 % of the time. But Monsieur de la Renta’s adding his flair, and it’s all worth noting.

I’m not really a fast-fashion type of gal, okay – well, maybe I am. But  you know, special collabs or not, buying H&M just because Stella McCartney spiced it up can’t really get me on the wagon. Unless of course,  there’s some seriously breath-taking essentials in the collection. Spain-based ‘fast-fashion’ line Mango is not on my list, period. Never has been and may very well never be. However, what I can appreciate is that it produced a collaboration that introduced me to this fashionisto in the making. Set aside that he debuted his own last line, MDLR last year, there’s a bigger picture at hand.

What I’m seeing is a new and refreshing school of fashion leaders. He’s been on the radar of fashion bibles, but now, he’s on his way to become an established and accessible name to kids outside The Hills crowd. And that’s kind of a big deal.

So here it is folks, here’s a glimpse of some limited edition T-Shirts, de la Renta has designed for Mango. Kinda cute, no?

 

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In the Know: Christian V Siriano for Payless?

In Collection, Shoes, Shopping, Trend, affordable, designer on January 28, 2010 at 5:21 pm

If you’ve been going gaga over Alexander McQueen’s hoofs, then you’ll probably love the next best thing: Christian Siriano’s Payless collection. And why not? Every girl needs a taste in luxury sometimes.

The curvy, sexy shoe comes in three colourways available for $79.99 (USD). My preference would be the aqua-coloured pump. However, as much as I’m down with fast fashion, I do have a qualm.

 I love shoes (as does every woman, right?). But do I love Payless? Sure I did – back in the day. But think about the quality reality of Payless: low-grade leather which leads to smelly feet, and poor construction which means if you’re lucky you’ll get a good three months out of it. Honestly, I don’t believe in spending more than $30.00 on a Payless shoe – limited edition or not – and I certainly think that if it’s not inked with a specialty shoe store, even frickin’ H&M (which is not a shoe store but is the hotness for fast-fashion), then it’s not something to swoon over.

I could be wrong. I’ve never invested in a Christian Siriano before nor have I heard of him prior to Nitrolicious, so,  this may be worth while. And I’m sure girls will lining outside a Payless based off the strength of visual aesthetic alone, anyway.

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Musing: Henrik Vibskov ss 2010 womenswear

In Collection, Fashion, Fashion Heat, Good Look, In the Know, RTW, Trend, designer on January 28, 2010 at 4:52 pm

When Henrik Vibskov’s Maja Brix works her magic for the womenswear division, I’ve got to say – I’m practically drooling. It’s a shame because I don’t feel it’s getting the accolades it truly deserves. I’ve looked far and wide for the womenswear spring/summer 2010 lookbook but man, thanks to the Berlin-based Agentur V, I was able to peep some greatness from one of the coolest brands I’ve come across so far.  

This season doesn’t stray too far from the usual loose draping and colour contour concepts– something Henrik’s known for. And while I’m not really a fan of shoulder pads or harem pants, when Maja does it, it’s got an authentic vibe that makes it fun. I mean, the impression I get is they’re having fun with it anyway, which is what makes the brand a fav to begin with.

The problem with stagnancy though, is if the designs are consistent, it gets boring. Or, if they’re trying too hard to ”grow” they kinda end up  taking from other designers and loosing distinction. I find Eastern European designers more interesting – a lot harder to find mind you – but not as superficial as their western counterparts. And I hope that as Henrik’s womenswear division blossoms, it becomes a leader to a younger generation of fashion mavens. In other words, building a distinction between itself and an H&M  rip off.

 

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A man’s touch

In Fashion, Fashion Heat, Good Look, I heart, Shopping, Trend on December 17, 2009 at 9:27 pm

(Pharrell Williams on the Town)

If I were a boy…

I’d dress like a man. But even if I’m not, I much prefer the art of men’s clothing. Whether it’s biker boots, sneakers, plaid shirts or rugged leather jackets, men’s fashion seems to center around the luxury of making a hard-wearing concept look über cool. Whereas if done by a woman, it would either be too  “dyke” looking or just plain “durty.”

But I’ve been this way since I was a young’un. As a pre-teen, my statement was meshing my father’s wardrobe with my own. Particularly during the `90s when pants were baggy enough to fit at least three people in them. I loved that time – I really did. As I’ve grown older, I haven’t yet figured out if I have a signature style. But if I do, it’s probably my love for monochromatic colour palettes with a masculine reference. Maybe that’s why Gareth Pugh, Meadham Kirchhoff and Rad Hourani are amongst my favorite designers.

During my frequent musings at H&M and Urban Outfitters, rather than rummaging through the women’s isles, I now dive right over to the men’s section. It’s my own little amusement park, and oh the joys in trying on cardigans alongside the fellas! I don’t particularly like the attention, but maybe the benefits of being a woman is that I get the best of both worlds. Even when I’m dressed super feminine, I always have to garnish the finished look with a tinge of masculinity. When I shop for sneakers, I don’t buy ones made women, oh gosh no! I want the ones made for guys, which in my opinion, is so much more attractive anyway.

I did, and still do, have a knack for femininity. But I can’t stand (or at least no longer can) ultra-girly high-street stores like Costa Blanca and Miss Selfridge. Perhaps because I don’t like the manufactured girly look. You know, the cookie-cutter separates you won’t be the only one sporting when you see every third girl wearing it. It’s actually quite appalling.

Burberry Rabbit Fur Snood (for the neck)

Pretty Green - Black Label Coat

Lyle & Scott Cardigan

Bleach & Destroy Jeans

Maison Martin Margiela High-top leather trainers with Straps

Belstaff leather messenger bag

 

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Rising Stars: Canada’s next “it” fashion bloggers

In Fashion, Fashion Heat, Good Look, Rising Stars, blogger on November 25, 2009 at 1:06 am

You name them, we follow them. Whether it’s the self-imposed muses at Kingdom of Style, or the king of street stalking Sartorialist, fashion bloggers are the future.

We’ve shown our admiration for the Susie Style Bubbles, Bryan Boys and Tommy Tons, and Journalists from industry fashion bibles continue praise the mantras of those already on top. But fashion leaders must always be on the lookout for what’s new – what’s hot. Especially when a majority of the fashion bloggers shop at the same places.

The creme de la creme of High street retailers: American Apparel, Urban Outfitters, H&M, and Topshop are forever indebted to the fashionistas who consistently create looks on their blogs that inspire a growing batch of followers. Without this new school of “unofficial” spokespeople, fashion retailer’s net profits would plummet at jet speed.

This post is an ode the new generation of bloggers. They’re young, fashion-forward, and proudly Canadian.

Regardless of how different they are in content, the selected fashionistas have three things in common: high street style, thrift shops and character.

So here we go.(And by the way, all images are properties of the blog owners.)

The Dreamer: Rachel, 16, Serva Me, Servabo Te.


This young blogger loves pretty floral print dresses and far away places. In July 2008, Rachel founded  Save me, And I Will Save You. With piercing green eyes, fiery red hair, and a direct sense of fashion, Rachel updates her followers about fashion finds at Toronto’s vintage shops, and has a knack for binding art, fantasy books and music into her fashion entries. Though she has a passion for fashion, it’s easy to see her cultivating a career in the literary world, maybe with Penguin Books.

The Fashion Creator: Katia, 17, Blinding Bright Lights.

Whether Katia’s venturing european countries or strolling NYC, this Montrealer/Student  is a self-proclaimed “fashion-obsessed vegetarian with extremely high hopes for the future.” Fashion through her eyes is a cluttered barrage of colour, and putting looks together is much like changing underwear – she does it often. Her posts garner a legion of responses, which means she’s becoming a prominent voice within Canada’s fashion blogsphere. Maybe she’ll launch her own line, land a job at Colette or French Elle.

The Fashion Editor: Lea, 13, Lea Likes Fashion.

Don’t be fooled by the pouty demure in this picture; there’s nothing emo about Lea’s blog. In fact, it’s along the lines of UK’s Grazia. At just 13-years-old, Lea’s one of the most underrated yet promising personalities in Canadian fashion – literally. She’s a woman of little words but high on visual content. Noting Alexander McQueen as one of her favorite designers, she’s quick to post pre-season haute couture collections and one-on-one guides of her own daily looks. She’s got the look that will land her in front row of fashion weeks, and she’s got lifestyle flair; she posts food recipes and tips making her a well-rounded blogger. Word to the wise Lea, have you seen MCQ’s Spring/Summer 2010 collection of to die for bags?

The Society Girl: Olivia, 21, Stylestruck.ca.

She’s got a cute cropped cut and kick ass heels. And when she’s not giving the low down of what’s in her closet, Fashion Blogger Olivia does her own rendition of street stalking. She’s all about who’s who in the Vancouver’s (and abroad) fashion scene. She’s got a positive attitude and wears a bright smile to match. She’s definitely one of those fashionistas you’ll see working the PR circuit for a well-renowned fashion house, maybe Diane Von Furstenberg?

The Glam Girl: Abbey, 16, Abbey Karson Blog.

Abbey’s got enough style to be apart of the team behind über-fashion mags like Pop, or Katie Grand’s Love. Note the british mags mentioned; that’s because she’s cool, maybe too cool to be in Canada. With her doll-like features and semi-beehive hairstyle, Abbey is essentially Britpop to-the-max. The quality of the images on her blog are stunning and the fashion-girl-against-rural-backdrop (except when she is in front of her magazine poster plastered wall) is fresh and exciting.

The Indie Fashion Maven: Siân, 23, Good Stuff Here.

Out of all the bloggers, Siân would probably be the most anti-mainstream, though she genuinely is the most avant-garde. This Makeup Artist from Toronto’s style resonates throughout her blog; she’s one of those personalities you can see getting in with weekly indies like Toronto’s Now! Magazine, or working her magic through commissions from Creative Agencies. She’s an unapologetic blogger, not afraid to voice her dislikes which gives her platform a niche following. And, considering a lot of the fluff bloggers tend to do (myself included), that’s not such a bad thing. If all else fails, she can always become a spokes model for Carri Mundane’s Cassette Playa collection.

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I Heart Matthew Williamson

In I heart, London, colour, designer, dress, girly, pretty, sexy on October 29, 2009 at 9:28 pm

 Matthew Williamson’s designs caught my eye while I was flipping through  The London Paper (or was it  London Lite?) while living in London last year.  A news story had broken that he was collaborating with high-street powerhouse H&M on a collection of sequins and floral pieces for a very limited release.  I had no idea who Mr. Williamson was, but I knew that I wanted some. It’s only through H&M can woman like myself afford to taste high-end luxury.

Well, I never did get anything as they were his collection sold-out as soon as it went public. But I can never forget the exquisite, and highly modern disco-esque line. There were splashes of blues, and fuchsias and greens. They were sixties styles cuts, with a `70s edge.

If you’re passionate enough, you’ll be able to see that you can tell a lot about a fashion designer by the clothes they construct. Obviously, Mr. Williamson is glamorous. But he’s also cultured and influenced by more than the superficiality of dramatic high-fashion.

I have a great feeling that he’ll shock the fashion world in 2010.