A New Era of Designers

I stumbled upon this really cool slideshow featuring the latest from design students at Pratt School of Design. It reminded me how it's so crucial to look for emerging talent, especially when it comes to fashion. Of course it's fun to collect classic labels, but sometimes it's even cooler to begin following a designer when they're still new and be one of the first to champion their pieces. There is so much young talent out there, it's a great reminder to think young--and locally--when it comes to finding fashion.

(photo: courtesy of The Cut)

Cool Color Combo: Sunshine + Purple Blue

These comes a time every Spring/Summer when I begin again to introduce color into my wardrobe. It takes effort, but it slowly happens and I do it piece by piece. But what if--and this is a big what if--I did it in big heaps, like this cool color combo that probably looks better together than if worn separately. Of course I'd never think to pair them together but they play off eachother so perfectly and the pattern gives the look a little extra depth--and fun--just in time for the seasonal warm-up.

(photo: courtesy of What I Wore)

How To: Dress for Work in the Spring

I love this Springtime/office-appropriate work wardrobe update. I know so many friends in the professional world (not me) who stick to boring black and grey Theory suits and occasionally mix things up with a colorful blouse or add-on from Zara. But what if you did something different--and colorful--like this? It looks so fresh, could be pulled apart to maximize the pieces as separates, and seems spot on for the season. Try a colorful approach to your standard work uniform this season and I have a feeling the response will be quite positive.

(photo: courtesy of Tibi)

Covetable: Girl's Night Out Chic

I think this is a perfect representation of what I'd like to look like when I go out but don't actually manage to accomplish. The combination of short hemline with silk button down is exactly what I like, making for a play on proportions that just works. And those shoes?!?! Can you get a load of those shoes. Since the rest of the outfit seems so professional, it makes sense to do something fun with the footwear--either a pop of color or something statement like cat wedges in velour. Take your look to the next level with inspiration like this.

(photo: courtesy of WWD)

How To: Wear All While

White is a hard color to pull off, even if you're in the safe months of Summer. It tends to be clingy, revealing and leave little to the imagination. I think if you're going to go head-to-toe, like this lovely look from 9-to-5 Chic, you've got to have the perfect hems to accommodate the overshare of color. Three-quarter length blazer sleeves give the look a less serious feel while the ankle length of the denim makes gives the extra flash of skin to make whole outfit accessible. Still feeling a bit undone, the effect is Summer ease with a bit of polish--exactly my speed.

(photo: courtesy of 9 to 5 Chic)

New: HELMUT by Helmut Lang

Just this weekend I picked myself up a Helmut Lang jacket. I don't own a lot from the line but every piece I do is so interesting and architectural that it elicits a million compliments with every wear. Lucky for us, they're launching a diffusion line (aka, lower prices ($95-$205) with the same great cuts). The new designs hit stores in May but can't come soon enough. The asymmetrical silhouettes are edgy sexy at its best.

(photo: courtesy of New York Magazine)

From the Archives: Mario Testino

I was recently made aware of the amazingly revamped site from photog Mario Testino (behind some of the most celebrated images we know and love today). The site has a tremendous archive that is like your own virtual inspiration board, just one click away. Featuring all of his most brilliant works in one place (including unforgettable editorials, spreads, etc.) this is such a great resource to find a little creativity when you're lacking. The visuals are simply stunning.

(photo: courtesy of Mario Testino)