Currently viewing the category: "Spring"

Sheer Things…

On July 4, 2009 · 24 Comments · In Spring, Summer, Wear
Hello Darlings,

Sheer was seen all over the runways for a few seasons, however it is definitely becoming mainstream. Although I understand the appeal of this super sexy trend, I've been wondering whether an everyday woman can pull off this look,including myself. There is a fine line between trashy and sensual...however, how do you know when you've crossed into the wrong side???

Inspire...

Spring09:Jean Paul Gaultier; Christian Dior;Roberto Cavalli;YSL;Alexander McQueen; Alexander Wang.

Lately, I've been obsessed with semi-sheer tops, including my favorite from Club Monaco as well as simple tees from Talula Babaton. There's something beautiful about the lightness of the fabric and the way it drapes over the body. So my love for semi-sheer has finally encouraged me to give this trend a try...

Last night, I was getting dressed to go out with Andrew for late dinner and drinks... and it seemed like a pretty good time to venture out "semi-naked". However, I decided to play it safe by wearing a sweater over a simple semi-sheer tee and pretty black graphic bra...

Personally, I think this trend is best kept for night outings, since it gives that little something to an otherwise a simple outfit. And probably the most important part of wearing sheer is a pretty and well fitted bra!

This is a love/hate trend for me... I love the look but to a certain degree I hate the feeling ... you know the feeling that makes you stop for a minute wondering what exactly you're thinking and wondering why you're stepping outside your boundaries. But then again what would fashion be if we didn't experiment... this is my experiment!!!

 

I am wearing: Talula Babaton Semi-Sheer Tee; D&G Bralet; French Connection Skirt; Wilfred Sweater; Gold and Platinum Necklace; Amber Gold Ring ( a family jewel); Michael Kors Oxfords.

So, do you love or hate the sheer trend? How do you feel wearing it?

At first I was nervous stepping out with my bra visible, but with the cover of a sweater weird looks from people were seemingly avoided... So I actually felt confident wearing the combination. The tee is not too sheer, but gives the perfect amount of glimpse of the lace and graphic details of the bra. Would I wear this again?... yes, I feel comfortable enough with the sheer trend and think that it is an easy way to spice up a simple going out outfit. I don't know if I would wear it out during the day... but everything is possible, you just have to wear what you feel like.

 

 

P.S. If you have a moment, stop by my Elle Canada page... by clicking here and here.
 
With Love... Marta  
Source: style.com; the fashion spot

What is it with women and rain boots…?

On June 30, 2009 · 27 Comments · In Fall, Spring, Wear
Hello Darlings,

Today was rainy and it seemed as if every girl age 2 to 92 wore rubber rain boots. WHY? I just don't understand why people wear rubber rain boots as a fashion statement... even when it's not raining. It's as if rain boots are the new Uggs, even worn in winter. What is it about rain boots that women love so much?

 

Seen today "casual shopping" were three women arguing over a pair of $150 Juicy Couture rain boots.... Why would 20 year old women argue over rubber rain boots? It's not as if they are Christian Louboutin or Jimmy Choo. If this wasn't a "loud" enough indication how much women love rain boots, the price tag designers charge is... Why does rubber cost $150? Just because of the designer name?...

 
 

SO WHAT IS IT WITH WOMEN AND RAIN BOOTS????

Not to pass undue judgment... Wet feet suck, but there are options other than wearing rubber boots. Sure if you live in the country and it's often muddy, rain boots are practical. But it's rare to find muddy side walks in the city... Plus, do you wear your rain boots indoors, lets say in an office building, in Starbucks, in a restaurant, or a shopping mall???

The role for rain boots in my life are :

♥ Walking my dog when it is pouring and muddy. ♥ Walk in the country if mud is unavoidable. ♥ At the cottage and out for a walk during or after rain.
 
Then again I don't understand why people love Uggs. My rain boots are Michael Kors duck boots... Nothing cute or pretty, but "uniquely ugly", water-proof, warm and comfortable.
 

I am wearing:

Spring &Clifton V-Neck Cardi

Michael Kors Duck Boots

14k diamond ring courtesy Ice. com Jewelers

 

Fingers crossed that tomorrow is going to be a sunny day.

I wish you all a lovely day!!!
With Love... Marta
 
Source: jak&jil; the fashion spot.

Skirt Issue

On June 14, 2009 · 18 Comments · In Shopping, Spring, Wear
Hello Darlings,

I've come to realize that figuring out what to pair with a pencil skirt is a challenge. Some women make it look so effortless, elegant and sexy. When I try wearing one, I feel like a secretary. So this is my attempt at wearing a pencil skirt to my internship meeting.

(left to right) Rouland Mouret;Pringle of Scotland;Balmain; Ruffian; Isabel Murant

Last night, I browsed Fall 2009 collections for some inspiration...

I am wearing:
Wilfred Pencil Skirt
A&F Sweater
Michael Kors Heels
Gustto Purse
Raymond Weil Watch
Gold and Platinum Choker
Chanel Sunglasses.

I hope you're all having a wonderful Sunday.
With Love... Marta
Source: Style.com; tamtam.

” Quality over Quantity” Investigated

On March 20, 2009 · 20 Comments · In Fall, Spring, Summer, Wear, Winter
Hello Darlings,

Many people have their own rules and guidelines when it comes to shopping.... After receiving a wonderful e-mail from one of the readers, I set out to make a post regarding my ultimate rule " Quality over Quantity".

 

As a student during the recession, I learned early how prioritize what to buy. Not one to follow trends too closely, preferring to develop my personal style based on classic looks, I believe buying quality classic pieces is most important, because the quality is often better and because classics do not go out of style.

 

Quality over Quantity doesn't automatically mean expensive over cheap... or designer over street... Designer labels or a hefty price tag does not guarantee quality!!! Finding quality requires closely looking at a garment. So in the spirit of good shopping, here are my thoughts:

 

Consider This, when shopping...

1. Consider the Material

  • I prefer natural fabrics and stay away from polyester or synthetics.
  • Sweaters: I like cashmere because it is light, warm and lasts.
  • For going out tops and dresses I like silk.
  • For casual tops and dresses, I like 100% cotton.
  • For shoes, leather.

2. Inspect the Fabric

  • It should be cut and sewn on the grain.
  • Patterns should line up at the seams' especially at the shoulders, collar and sewn-on (patch) pockets.
  • Hold fabric to light and make sure the weave is tight, even and uniform.
  • The fabric should also hold its shape well.
  • Grab the fabric at the seams with both hands, and gently pull. If the thread in the seams pulls apart, they're not sewn properly.

3. Check the Seams and Hems

  • Seams and hems of a high-quality garment are always sewn straight.
  • Hems should be nearly invisible.
  • Garments should have at least two inches wide hems to allow for alterations.

4. Check the Buttons and Zippers

  • Check for loose buttons.
  • Button holes in a high-quality garment are often bound with thread for durability.
  • Zippers should move freely up and down without hesitation.

5. Check the Trim

  • Trim should be sewn securely.Gently pull on the trim at different places to test.
  • Trim should complement the garment in color and in style.

6. Check the Lining

  • The lining in suits, blazer, and jackets should be dense and opaque.
  • If the lining was properly sewn into the garment, it will not be tight

7. Check the Belt

  • If a garment comes with a belt check it for quality.
  • A cheap cardboard belt is a sure sign of a cheap garment.

8. Shoes Check

  • The best quality shoes are made of leather.
  • Check the tag if you are unsure - many types of leather look "real".
  • Examine the sole to make sure it is firmly attached to the shoe.
  • Extras should always be attached securely.
  • High-quality dress shoes have leather heels, sometimes with a layer of rubber or nylon on the back edge of the heel.
  • Heels for women are usually plastic covered with leather. The higher the price, the higher quality the plastic.
  • Inspect the shoe's interior. Leather interiors absorb foot moisture best.
  • Good-quality shoes are fully lined from front to back.
 

Care Instructions

Proper care can increase the life of your garment. So be sure to read the label and know how to properly care for your clothes.  
 

Personal View

I understand why people prefer to buy multiple items - it's more fun! But I have learned my lessons, and almost always choose quality over quantity.   For some specific advice, I will be honest and say that I am not a big fan of brands like American Apparel and Forever 21... Based on my personal experience, Forever 21 does not last past the first wash and AA is overpriced for the quality they provide. If you love the brands, I hope your experience is better, but for me - never again!   H&M and Zara for trendy, fun things are on my approved list... ( as long as they are made of natural materials) but always make sure to check for quality before you buy.
 

Mainstream Stores WithLove... Loves:

Gap

Banana Republic

Club Monaco

French Connection

 

Contemporary designers and more expensive pieces

(in order of preference):

 

Ssense (great selection and great sales)

Shopbop (great selection, but crazy taxes)

Bluefly (my all time favorite)

in Canada, Holt Renfrew

in US, Bloomingdales

Saks Fifth Avenue ( awesome sales)

Net a porter ( great sales)

 
Preferring quality over quantity is my personal belief, but it is something that takes strong will. The one quality item will serve me better than the three that I must replace in just a wear or two. You don't have to spend a fortune to get quality. It takes patience and searching, not compromising on your standards, checking for the details, and understanding what it is that you want. And remember sales are always great for buying things that were out of your price point before... personally I buy majority of my classic pieces on sale. But do not buy something just because it is on sale, you must love it. Keep in mind that fit matters and right undergarments. As well as, make sure you pay attention to details, especially wrinkles, stains, and holes. THE most important rule, if you don't love it, don't buy it. Buy things that make you feel beautiful and confident. Also Remember that you are going to wear them - so no matter what others think, be yourself and wear what makes you feel wonderful.  
HAPPY FIRST DAY OF SPRING!!!!!!!!!!
I am so excited.... after long Canadian winter, it is finally here!!!!
With Love... Marta
Sources: associated content; eHow; fashion spot; Moschino; lolita