Fashion Review - Spring '08

Hi Diva Socialistas:

Last week at the Corcoran DC the local Fashion Group Intl chapter had their semi-annual discussion on the latest trends in the Spring '08 fashion shows. All the fashionista darlings always seem to range from those who dress to the nines - minks and all to the students in jeans! I opted to dress up...

Its always fun seeing the trends and even more spectacular if you have been tracking the shows and they come up with the same conclusions as you. Overall the Spring trends were shown to be not only heading towards the romantic but also there is a focus on shape, transparency and prints all in a way slightly different than we've seen in the last few years. One point to note that was mentioned during the discussion is the effect the advent of the Internet has had on the fashion trend cycle. Technology brings designs to the masses at a greater speed causing the cycles of fashion to no longer be around 10 years but a lot sooner.

Here are some quick mentions:

1.) Yeohlee I loved for hair and makeup and Dior by Pat McGrath.
2.) Layering transparent fabrics (like chiffon) is great especially with the new trend of citrus colors. The layer of for example black transparent fabric over a yellow dress (Carolina Herrera) tones down the bring color and allows you to wear the hue without calling too much attention to yourself.
3.) Shape - or rather loose fitting dresses took us away from the tight fitted fabrics and designs from past years. Diane von Furstenberg, Missoni's kaftan
4.) High waisted pants - despite what was said and after being in Paris a few months ago...I don't believe this trend will last. In Paris no one was wearing highwaisted. It is such a awkward item to fit into a wardrobe.
5.) Blown up prints like paisley were refreshing (Christian LaCroix); Armani and Proenza Schouler
6.) The citrus trends (yellow, pink, orange, green) of the last two seasons is still in! Go figure...
7.) The art or statement shoe - everyone should have at least one in their closet...see last weeks post on the statement shoe.
8.) Bangles and cuffs are said to be in but for me they were never out!
9.) On the green scene - cotton is making a comeback

Overall the presentation was worthwhile and informative! Have fun with your Spring '08 wardrobes.

Ciao bellas!

Hats Essential

Hey Divas:


Ok ... so here and there I've been talking to you about Winter (W-word) and Fall (F-word) but in reality I would as soon toss those thoughts out of my mind because - Summer (S-diva) was still in full force. So imagine my shock (and yours too) when it was close to 60 degrees on Sunday. I actually had to wear a sweater! For the first time I was aware that Summer was over...sad. Ummm...well maybe by next week I will feel better - love Fall - truly, madly deeply. In the meantime, it's all still a shock.


But the presently lowered temperature has me thinking I should start thinking some more about my cold weather wardrobe. And no cold weather wardrobe is complete without hats or gloves as accessories. Like I've said before for the most part during F-word and W-word - all your friends and fellow Divas ever see are you outerwear so you have to make a point of choosing well.


Here are some hats that I think any budget fashionista would love...


Brown Betmar riding hat found at Village Hat Shop for ($52)




Urban Outfitter Heart Pattern beret (24.00)




Proper Topper's Tweed bucket ($45)


Ciao loves.

Hat musings ...

So Diva-socialistas:
I am seeing this hat more and more lately. The trend started with Taye Diggs and now everyone is making it their signature look. Its sort of the accessories for those who won't admit that they are buying into the new hobo trend. Who else will be throwing their hat in the rink...