Hawaiian florals: from vintage trends to modern catwalks & street fashion

left: Stella McCartney Resort 2012 ensemble via Vogue, right: blouse by H&M

Alright, you knew florals were going to be big this Spring, but did you know how big? Designers have certainly not shied away from reintroducing prints in the fashion spotlight, and in doing so they have placed an emphasis on flower power, reaching out to all that Mother Nature has to offer. Flower love is everywhere, ranging from poppy to rose and daisy, and even Hawaiian. 

At first glance, Stella's interpretation of the flower craze may be setting the tone for a Summer hothouse in the tropics. However, for the fashion savvy historian (or simply the fashion crazy like me), her experimentation with the motif definitely commemorates the tropical look's legacy. Hadn't you heard? Post-war 1940s Hawaiian print shirts became a hot commodity for women after being worn by soldiers returning home from war. These remained popular in the 50s and 60s thanks to designers like Alfred Shaheen. And for S/S 12, Hawaiian florals return stylish as ever via fashion masterminds such as Stella-- and did I mention they've hit the streets too with H&M on the bandwagon? Now then, I will let you ponder on these thoughts and let you share a comment (or two) with your own point of view!

An Ode to Masculinity & Metallics...and Daphne

If your mind has been dwelling over yesterday's post and you are all about Yves--a little birdie told me about a YSL Sample Sale going on, starting this evening and until Friday....

Now back to business.

Masculinity and metallics are an imposing trend this season. And if you know me, you already know of my love for all things boyish. 



Coco Chanel

The play on proportions has surely evolved in dressmaking since Chanel first took a 1920's Paris by storm with the look of La Garçonne. The play on simplicity which hid the female silhouette and adopted androgynous forms behind Chanel's little black dresses has set the stage for our contemporary designers to explore even further the play on masculine and feminine codes. 

Photo courtesy of Style.com

Stella McCartney's gold quilted bubble coat from her 2011 AW collection exemplifies the designer's ability to adapt menswear on women - and leaves us (ME especially) in awe. The balloon shaped silhouette, paired with a sporty collar, and not to mention the gold metallic finish make this piece a shining show-stopper. Anyone who is able to snatch this little number will exhibit the effortless chic we all aspire towards. 



Speaking about metallics and redefined shapes, look what I  found the other day at H&M, courtesy of my beloved Blackberry. That's right, a silver oversized fall jacket that oozes chic--perhaps a "wink" at Stella's mastery...

My new jacket reminds me of Daphne Guiness and her sharp shoulder silver jacket...it may sport a different style but surely like mine it didn't go unnoticed...Pair that sweeeeet piece with what I've concoted below to sport her stylishness, and clicky clicky below to find out where to purchase the fabulous pieces I listed!
 

Sandals: Alexander Wang, Collar: Gemma Lister, Dress: Alexander Wang, Clutch: Alexander McQueen, Headband: Madame Framboise, Bangles and ring: LeiVanKash 

Until we speak again...have a brilliant day!