La Société de Mode | The Fashion Society

2010-12-08T03:09:00.004+01:00

Street Style: Rue St. Michel

We love leather jackets as much as the next person, but we'll admit that they aren't exactly very warm. We love the way Alex expertly sported her vintage wool jacket underneath, and topped off the look with a beautiful tie-dyed scarf reminiscent of kindergarten's craft project fun. The ensemble, with its warm colors and textures is not only aesthetically pleasing to the eye, but also perfect for bracing the harsh Parisian winters.

2010-11-29T21:42:00.004+01:00

Street Style: Summery Autumn

I'm usually not a huge fan of leggings in general. I find tights to be much more flattering and serve the same purpose. However, when you've got legs like these, anything goes. I love recycling summery prints for autumn and winter wear, and in cases like this, pairing black and grey cardigan/flats with your summer flocks can keep the focus on the color of the dress. This look is just so darn fresh, elegant, and perfect for autumn/spring, the "transitional" seasons.

2010-11-27T04:04:00.002+01:00

Street Style: Starry Night

I was immediately drawn to the little stars on Jessica's scarf as I passed her on the street. They really make her eyes sparkle, and she emits such a youthful innocence. This almost reminded me of the French novella Le Petit Prince, which is a remarkably delightful novel on the beauty of youth in which the main character counts his lucky stars; I highly suggest the book if you haven't already read it.

2010-11-22T03:53:00.002+01:00

Street Style: Faux Fur and Leather

Camille's channeling her inner rock with her faux fur and liquid leggings. She's taken a few staples and layered them together well. The mono-chromatic ensemble works with the different textures she's chosen - wool grey cardigan, faux fur, and leather. We give her A for finished product.

2010-11-11T04:46:00.005+01:00

Street Style: Classy Retro

We were immediately drawn to Lilia's quiet confidence in her neutral-colored palette. The structure of her exquisite vintage bag and coat is emphasized by her perfectly placed and selected belt. Berlin fashion is usually more unknown for its more risky and edgy cuts and colors, but she proved that every fashion-forward city needs its token classy pixie-haired resident.

2010-10-31T21:08:00.008+01:00

Street Style: Paisley and Fur

2010-10-19T21:15:00.003+02:00

Street Style: Parisian Hues

We love animal print as much as the next person, but red leopard print? That's something only a Parisian could pull off. We also love how she kept the attention on the print with her nude-colored heels, a should-be staple in every woman's wardrobe. The leather bomber jacket keeps this dress appropriate for fall, and voila, there you have it - an effortlessly sexy fall ensemble.

2010-10-02T00:38:00.004+02:00

Street Style: Robson Street, Vancouver

I love gingers. This Aussie caught my attention right away as I was strolling down Robson Street. Her nautical stripes, high waisted skirt, and sandals are perfect for the summer, but with the jacket and tights, the outfit immediately transforms itself into autumn chic.
Not to mention, she's absolutely beautiful.

2010-09-18T22:51:00.007+02:00

Spotlight: I AM NY Magazine

I AM NY magazine is run by one of our friends, Tiffany Tzeng and we were lucky enough to be featured in her latest issue. With a layout that's chic and modern and with lifestyle notes ranging from fabulous eats to noble causes, we have a feeling that I AM NY will be hitting bookshelves any day now. As things stand however, you can get your fill of I AM NY right here at the Fashion Society.

The layout she chose n'est pas mal! Don't you think?

We also wanted to let you all know that we'll be posting just once a week for a while now. What can we say? Life is madness.

Gros Bisous
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-09-09T20:27:00.003+02:00

Street Style: Polka Dots and Stripes

It's the time-old cliche, but French girls really do have a certain savoir-faire.

2010-09-04T06:45:00.004+02:00

Spotlight: StyleStalker

Wipe Out Collection from stylestalker on Vimeo.

A Friend of ours sent us this video and we almost had a fab attack. The music, the model, the clothing...what's not to love? Stylestalker seems to capture So-Cal fashion effortlessly and somehow combines Romanesque braids with a beachy vibe. How do they do it? How the heck are we supposed to know?! All that we can say for sure is that Stylestalker has a new stalker...or two.

Bis,

Until next time

Rebecca&Maddy

2010-08-30T02:47:00.003+02:00

Designer Spotlight: Future Classics

It's almost September and school's already in session for a lot of us. That means one thing: goodbye summer, hello autumn! As much as I love the sun, I have to admit that I love my fall wardrobe more. Vests, cashmere, leggings, tights - Future Classic's A/W 2010 collection has it all! Future Classic's designer Julie Wilkins proved that monochromatics don't always have to be boring or 'safe'. On the contrary, her neutral-colored hooded sweaters command attention.

What are some of your fall wardrobe staples?

2010-08-26T03:37:00.003+02:00

Street Style: Little Black (& White) Dress

I personally love the simplicity of this black and white dress with an elegant ponytail. She looks poised and confident, young yet sophisticated. This is one of the looks I'll miss seeing come fall! (Yikes, it's almost September).

2010-08-23T00:10:00.004+02:00

Spotlight: Fleet Jewelery

We just had to share with you one of the hottest new companies around these days. With edgy ads, gorgeous jewelry and a blog all about culture and music to support the indie vibe, Fleet seems to be where it's at.With a press release too pretty to hide, helping Fleet get its name out into the world seemed like civil duty.Lovin' this baby brand as much as we are? Check out their newest collections at www.fleetjewelry.com.

Bis
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-08-19T06:31:00.005+02:00

Street Style: Classy Casual

We like a good blazer as much as the next fashion bloggers but when we saw this slouchy, oversized summer blazer mixed with casual acid wash jeans and moccasins we simply had to stop. We love how she somehow captures a feeling of Native American chic with her leather bag, but keeps it classy and casual with the outerwear and denim. Some people just know how to steal the show.

Bis,
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-08-14T19:15:00.003+02:00

Runway Spotlight: Anti Avanti by StarStyling

Starstyling's Anti Avanti was by far our favorite collection at Berlin Fashion Week S/S 2011.

The heart of the collection are handpainted designs and graphic prints inspired by the bandings found in agate stones, with unisex tops and leggings getting extra layers through additional transfer prints.

The big-shirt variations are combined with male and female washed-out frayed indigo denim styles and pieces in skin-colored net or linen with set-on bags and seams covered with holografic foil.

The line is ridiculously affordable - prices start at 40 euro!! We'll be hitting the stores come March 2011.

Bis,

Rebecca&Maddy

2010-08-12T01:25:00.005+02:00

Street Style: Summer Swing

Someone once said that elegance is when you can take a picture of someone at any given moment and find them in a beautiful position. This couple is elegant down to their fingertips.

2010-08-08T21:07:00.004+02:00

Designer Spotlight: Christopher Kane and Christopher Bailey

Christopher Kane is definitely making a name for himself in the fashion world. With focuses like nuclear bombs and nebular explosions for his vivid textiles, his clothes are colorful, beautiful and somehow still simple. On the other hand,everyone and their mother knows about Burberry Prorsum and the little genius behind it all known as Christopher Bailey. Season after season he stuns us with his classic London looks and his ever refreshing take on the trench. After reviewing the the pre-collection from these tippity top English designers we couldn't help but comment on the biggest contrast in London fashion week. The contrast between the two Christopers can be seen in everything from color and cut to fabric and styling. So, now that you've heard the low down think you can guess whose collection is whose?

Bis,
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-08-03T03:11:00.001+02:00

Street Style: Vancouver

There's really no sight more beautiful than a boy in a fedora, is there? Well, actually, maybe a boy in cuffed pants, a denim button down and a fedora could win that race. Wait a mintue, we think that maybe a boy in cuffed pants, a denim button down, a fedora, a cool expression and an adorable girlfriend who wears cardigans and has a tattoo could be the top prize winner. Hmm, well now that we think about it maybe a boy in a fedora...

well you get the idea.

Bis,
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-07-31T18:48:00.002+02:00

Roksanda Ilincic's 2011 Resort Pre-Collection Preview

Roksana Ilincic's Resort 2011 collection is, in our eyes, perfection. We love dresses, and we love color, and this collection seems to have a lot of both. The fun belts keep these dresses from being too shapeless, yet the voluminous skirts and lighter fabrics keep it comfortable for summer. Normally we use summer as an occasion to go all out on color, but we're even huge fans of her black and white dresses (shown above) - asymmetry is back and it's hotter than ever.

What are your favorite Resort 2011 collections?
Bisous,

Rebecca&Maddy

2010-07-29T00:24:00.002+02:00

Street Style: Robson Street

We ran into this adorable Irish exchange student on our stay in Vancouver (like I said earlier, Vancouver is a ridiculously cosmopolitan city). She seemed a little shy to take a picture, which is pretty normal, because most people assume that what they're not stylish enough to be on a fashion blog (I can't tell you how many 'WHAT? you want to take a picture of ME for your fashion blog?' I get...). In addition, she had stayed out all night partying, so her make up was a bit smudged, but we're totally into that grunge look anyways. We love how she transformed her LBD into a day-time appropriate outfit by throwing on a scarf (again, the beauty of scarves!) and that cuuute chapeau. Totally versatile and travel friendly.

2010-07-25T06:01:00.006+02:00

Designer Spotlight: Indra Welman

Une Petite Robe Noire, meaning a little black dress in French, is the name of Indra Welman's newest collection that she showed at Amsterdam fashion week.Her usual bold lines and fun designs are just as apparent as always as she reinvents the classics. Wanna hear what the critics are saying? Here's a snipet on her collection from German blog, Team Peter Stitger

"With her latest collection designer Indra Welman in fact released a best of collection straight away. She took the concept of the little black dress she’s so fond of and created a whole collection around it.

Each one of the little black dresses was born from a unique source of inspiration. And though sensuality is the main motive for any little black dress, Indra Welman redefined what is considered sexy.

The models had shiny white lips and did some crazy feminine poses before they started walking the runway, a hand kiss or one leg in the air, for instance. Their black dresses had lots of details like fringes and ruffles.

Yet it was not all black dresses we saw. Some black hotpants, a green top and two beige dresses with black accents on them came by too. One of those beige dresses had the shape of underwear cut out in black and attached to the front.

Indra herself appeared on stage in one of her own dresses. She gracefully walked the runway and looked very proud."

So, is the collection a hit or has the LBD been redone one too many times? We'd love to hear your two cents.

Bis,

Rebecca&Maddy

2010-07-22T07:48:00.003+02:00

Academy of Art University Update

Thinking about attending the Academy of Art university? Well it's not a bad idea. AAU shows at New York fashion week and is becoming a major name in the fashion world. However, with all these details aside and after spending a summer here, i'm not sure exactly if it's the place for America's next big designer. The Pre-college program is not taken seriously. They expect us to know nothing, which, honestly, some students need, but serious students aren't getting the challenge we've paied for. By no means is this the absolute truth, it's only my opinion, but I wish the program was a bit tougher.

On the bright side, the facilities are great and transport is wonderful. They have buses all over the city for us to take so MUNI money can be spent on other things. Below is a photo of my Fashion Merchandising classroom. The classrooms are generally big and airy and stocked with supplies. All the hallways are painted and it's quite visually appealing. Perfect for an artist.

Basically, AAU is a great place for those who aren't sure exactly what they want. I can't speak for the actual college classes yet, but for the pre-college program, come if you have some decision making to do.

Bis
Rebecca&Maddy

P.S. (BOF is having some awesome interviews with amazing people. This website never ceases to amaze.)

2010-07-19T10:39:00.002+02:00

Street Style: Vancouver, CA

We just can't stop with the fabulous Vancouver street style. We adore Wei's summer look. She manages to make the brown & white neutral palette seem refreshing - the French could really use a lesson from her. We can't decide which is cuter: her or the outfit. What we love most about the outfit, however, is its affordability.

Shirt: Urban Behavior
Cardigan: Costa Blanca
Shoes: Urban Outfitter
Bag: H&M

2010-07-15T23:54:00.000+02:00

Street Style: Robson Street

Back from Vancouver. Since so many wonderful fashion bloggers such as our buddy The Starving Stylist hail from this great Canadian city, I was expecting to find great street style. Vancouver did not disappoint. This student-friendly city has a TON of étrangers or foreigners, actually. I found that most of the people I asked to take a photo of were either exchange students or tourists themselves! Go figure. :P Guess goes to show that even 5 months after the Olympics have ended, Vancouver is still keepin some of that international flavor.

Priscilla from Japan was the first victim of my street-style photo hunt :p I personally loved the ruffled sleeves of her denim jacket - gave the classic Levi's a refreshing ol' twist! Sometimes, all you need is a variation on a staple item, and BAM, your outfit is made. More street style from Vancouver to come later!

2010-07-12T07:59:00.022+02:00

We simply can't keep this kind of fabulousness away from you guys, here are our top 5 favs of the week, including snippets from our inbox about the events. So, sit back, relax and enjoy what...
The Society Loves

1. Bread and Butter Berlin, Tribeca

Bread and Butter, one of the biggest fashion tradeshows in the world will now be featuring some fabulous designers from Tribeca. We've never heard of a more winning combination.
"Overview trade show dates:
1. TRIBECA New York from 07th to 09th of July at Bread & Butter, Flughafen Berlin-Tempelhof, Platz der Luftbrücke 5, 12101 Berlin
AREA STYLE SOCIETY, HANGAR 4, STAND ST 24.2
2. TRIBECA New York from 24th to 27th of July at Premium, Colorium Haus, Speditionstrasse 9, 40221 Düsseldorf
3. TRIBECA New York from 14th to 17th of August at Premium, Zenith Halle, Lilienthalallee 29, 80939 München"

"The Dixie"
The cutest little badass bag we've ever seen...
"S.C. Vizcarra’s hand-woven leather Dixie handbag with etched skull motif is now available in pewter for autumn/winter shopping pages and photo shoots. The bag (pictured above) retails for £375.
Editor’s Notes:
S.C. Vizcarra, a luxury accessories brand, was established 85 years ago in Manila and has made its way to Europe under the care of the original S.C. Vizcarra’s (Segundina Cornejo Vizcarra) granddaughter, London-based Rita Nazareno.
Focusing on classic and fashion-led, high-end, woven luxury bags, each piece is a unique creation taking up to 7 days to hand produce. All bags are lined with silk or canvas with stainless and brushed metal finishings.
Rita Nazareno has brought the brand to the UK after a very successful career in TV and film. An Emmy award-winning producer, 38-year-old Rita decided to return to and expand the family business. She has a Masters in film and video and received a second Masters in design management for fashion from London College of Fashion.
S.C. Vizcarra has several collections: Classic, Cruise and the newest additions, the Saddle Bag and directional Zacarias ranges. They are sold throughout Japan and Korea, are available at Suzannah in London or by private order: info@vizcarra1925.com
www.scvizcarra.com"

Mode Republic's Fashion Contests

Only the chicest enter and only the most fabulous win...
"Mode Republic Style in Your City Contest - win cash prize and be the next cover model
INTRODUCTION
Members of Mode Republic come from all around the world. We thought it would be fun to launch a contest to embrace the diversity of styles from all the different cities. Submit photos and show us the style in your city!
HOW TO ENTER
Submit photos to Mode Republic between June 17, 2010 and July 16, 2010 11:59 PM PST
http://www.moderepublic.com/contest"

Ulrika Sandstrom
and her summer sale...

"ULRIKA SANDSTRÖM STUDIO IS STARTING THE SUMMER SALE!
From tomorrow, Wednesday the 7th of July at 12.00,
we are offering you 30-50% off the spring/summer collection 2010.
Ulrika Sandström Store at Norrbackagatan 36
T-station St. Eriksplan or J-station Karlberg.
Opening hours Wed-Fri 12.00-18.00, Sat 12-00-16.00.
For our out of town customers, the online shop is open 24/24 h:
http://ulrikasandstrom.jetshop.se"

The New Tough
The Newest new tough pushes the envelope more than ever.

"We've just launched the fourth issue of The New Tough featuring Asger
Carlsen, Kevin "Spanky" Long, Susanne Bartsch, Colin Simmons and more.
http://www.thenewtough.com
THE NEW TOUGH
ISSUE 4, "NOCTURNAL"
SUMMER 2010"

We hope you enjoyed this peek inside our inbox and a few blurbs about our loves. Stay cool this summer.

See you Wednesday,
Bis
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-07-08T02:16:00.008+02:00

Street Style: AAU San Francisco

Agustus Gloop anyone? C'mon doesn't Philip here make you think of everyone's favorite Wonka star at least a little bit? Okay, okay maybe it's just me, but the above the knee shorts, button downs and adorable poses have to make you think of some larger than life character.I mean seriously, he's wearing a nautical themed afghan.

I've been watching Philip's style for a while and he's always looking original and chic. Here at AAU there are so many fashionable (but THANK GOD not tackilytrendy) people. Gotta love artists!!

See y'all next week
Bis,
Rebecca & Maddy

P.S. We'd like to dedicate this post to someone who has been supporting us since the very beginning,Christina Kyrillos and her lovely blog Miss Saturday Morning

P.P.S. We just had a little chat with Sonia from Dozen Dresses. Check out our interview here!

2010-07-03T00:01:00.001+02:00

Kilian Kerner: Mercedes-Benz Berlin Fashion Week Preview

On July 10th, Kilian Kerner will showcase his newest collection at Mercedes-Benz Berlin Fashion Week. We were lucky enough to see his S/S 2010 collection at the previous Berlin Fashion Week, and we were completely blown away by his craftsmenship and beautiful and elegant designs. Since then, we've become loyal fans and we're sad that we won't be able to make his show this time. However, we were invited to have a sneak peak at his collection, entitled the Flieg zum Mond und bleib hier (fly to the moon and don’t go away) collection.

The women's wear collection is elegant and soft and plays with hard, metallic contrasts. Sequined pieces meet flowing silk creations. Short and long trousers and over sized tops meet figure hugging cuts and feminine dresses. The clashes continue even within the colour scheme. Soft, earthy, nude and beige tones encounter a dark, profound pallet of blue, black and metallic.

Photo credit: Katja Kuhl

The men's collection embodies a mixture of dandy and sailor. Clear, classical tailoring meets lined patterns and fitted pockets. Asymmetry comes about through a playful division of seams in textiles like silk and cotton. These summery shorts, casual shirts, and narrow coats are perfect additions for the fashion conscious man.

2010-07-01T18:19:00.005+02:00

Intern Diaries: Part 3

My fab intern buddies, Kathy and Shay

I've recently also been spending a lot of time at the Lot 8 Boutqiue in addition to working at Chloe's studio. I'll admit, I expected my job at the store to be pretty mundane - I expected to do tasks along the lines of ringing up items, greeting customers as they walk through the door, and making sure all the clothes on the racks were put away neatly. This isn't too far from the truth. However, interns get a 50% discount on everything in the store, so it's all worth it. However, I've recently discovered that all of the clothes are made for small-breasted women, and since I'm a size D bust, this seems to pose a problem. I guess I'll have to stick to buying skirts and pants.

The stock room backstage

Aside from doing clerical work, I also help a lot "backstage" at the store. I'm constantly updating the Chloe Dao website, photoshopping her most recent photoshoots, and making flyers for her upcoming shows. Chloe puts on a runway show almost every week; I have NO idea how she does it.

We're constantly working, even through our lunch breaks!

Something that I just found out about from Chloe is that October 11-15 of this year will mark the first Audi Houston Fashion Week! Christian Siriano, Mark Bouwer, and of course Chloe are slated to show their collections, and I'm sure some other designers as well. I'll unfortunately be in Boston at the time but gosh...the idea of Houston becoming more fashionfoward is just too unreal/exciting!!!!

2010-06-28T09:35:00.008+02:00

Summer Camp Diaries

Oh...wait. You thought I meant the kind of camp where there's tents, dirt and those god awful things called running shoes (which should never be worn by teenage boys with jeans and a button up by the way)? Seriously, what kind of people do you think we are? All jokes aside, this is the kind of summer camp I’ve been dreaming of. It’s the pre-college program at AAU and so far the Academy of Art University has not let me down. Surrounded by the gorgeous city of San Fran, AAU has a fab location and there's creativity oozing from each, alley, street and unique boutique. The dorms here are pas mal and are made from converted buildings around town. The ladies’ dorm is an old office building and our floor is painted, very appropriately, Tiffany blue. However, the boys are incredibly lucky with a refurbished hotel and fireplaces in their rooms and private bathrooms. Seriously guys…what the heck does a teenage boy need a fireplace for? Why in the world do us girls have communal bathrooms when the boys have private ones? Goodness gracious...i guess this really does somewhat resemble camping after all.

Just Kidding...it's lovely here.

Anyways, AAU is very confusing to me in terms of how it's regarded in the art world. Supposedly it's the number one arts school in the country, but all the bloggers say they hate it. They're the only ones who show at Bryant Park (or now I guess it's Mr. Abe's center), but supposedly students have trouble getting jobs. The main point here is that I’m confused. If anyone has any experience please give me a ring on my cellie.

Thanks you wonderful fashionable people.

Bis,
Maddy

2010-06-25T02:46:00.006+02:00

Street Style: Downtown La Jolla, CA

Good Lord! Doesn't Rebecca's internship sound superfab? Like, I'm leaking from the mouth just thinking about it. The only way to supress these sympotoms of super extreme jealousy is to go out and harass stylish strangers into letting me take pictures of them. Which brings us quite nicely to exhitbit A above. This stylish Californian has taken the teenage trend of shortshorts to new heights. With Chanelesque clog heels and a crop top (something I haven't seen anyone wear since Saved by the Bell) she screams confidence. Yet, with a formal white bias bound blazer she manages to keep from showing too much skin and adds a formal element to the look. An exclamation point necklace mixed with Ray Bans and a cute lil' scarf makes an unusal blend we melt for....oh no! the symptoms are starting again! I'll be back later, for now I gotta go find some more stylish subjects.

Bis,
Rebeca and (a very jealous) Maddy!

2010-06-24T05:47:00.002+02:00

Intern Diaries: Part 2

Chloe Dao is just so goddamn normal. She stirrs her coffee with a chopstick like the rest of us! I felt pretty special to be chosen to intern with her this summer, given that I'm still in high school and by far her youngest intern, but I learned over lunch (all the staff has lunch together) that she's actually going to be mentoring a 16 year old soon. Whatever the difference between 'mentoring' and 'interning' is, who knows, but this 16 year old apparently wants to put on her very own charity fashion show at the Marriott (or is it Hilton? I can't quite remember) Hotel.

Wow...pretty big dreams that 16 year old's got right there! Putting on a fashion show of that caliber is pretty serious business (the sponsors? the designers? etc) and I think it's so selfless of Chloe to set aside time to make this girl's project happen. Apparently this 16 year old girl wants to go into Event-planning/fashion marketing, so this isn't a bad start....which leads me to ask you guys:

what are YOUR (fashion-related) dream jobs?
I'm really curious to hear y'alls responses!

2010-06-20T02:06:00.009+02:00

Intern Diaries: Part 1

I started interning with Chloe Dao Project Runway Season 2 Winner, this past week in Houston. Chloe is actually one of my favorite contestants ever and Season 2 was, in my opinion, the best season to date. I couldn't believe my luck when I found out she was located in Houston, my hometown. The thing I love about interning with Chloe is that, unlike other bigger fashion companies/PR firms, each intern is given real objectives and projects. None of us sit around and fetch coffee or answer phone calls all day, we're always hard at work. My first project while interning with Chloe is to help launch her very own blog. I'm so excited that she's jumping onto the blogging bandwagon - it's essential in this day and age to reaching out to customers and it definitely makes the designer more memorable giving them their own voice. I'm the only Marketing/PR intern as of now - aside from helping her launch her own blog, I'm also responsible for updating her Facebook fan page, her twitter, and promoting her several lines online. The rest of the interns are design interns and they help Chloe with everything from photoshopping studio pictures to cutting and sewing whatever garment needs to be finished.

The other interns - Anthony, Shay, and Ksenia (Sasha)

Ksenia is one of the sweetest people ever. She's originally from Russia and we all call her Sasha. She and Anthony (in the fashion industry, every team needs your lovable token gay guy!) are currently graduate students at HCC for design. Shay just graduated from the University of Houstonand is my fellow Marketing/PR buddy and she works at Chloe's boutique, Lot 8.

Although we're always hard at work, we share lots of laughs in the office. Chloe's actually one of the funniest and goofiest people I've ever met - despite her amazingly hectic job, she'll always find time to crack a joke, and I think her Vietnamese/Laos/Texan accent is the cutest thing ever.

Her studio is actually located in her garage, and she sews each piece by hand with her team! Chloe often goes to bed at midnight and will wake up at 5 AM...even for a designer of her level and talent, the job is never easy and certainly not as glamorous as one may think. If you're expecting each intern to have their own cubicle a la THe Hills or The City, think again.

That's it for now - I'll be sure to keep you guys posted on Chloe's blog, her giveaways, and all the other craziness that goes on in her studio/Lot 8 Boutique (which I have started working at! pictures to come).

2010-06-17T08:15:00.014+02:00

Intern Diaries

Now that we're back in the States, we've been getting serious about our summer projects. Rebecca has started interning with Project Runway Season 2's winner, Chloe Dao, in her studio in Houston. She'll do weekly installments called Intern Diaries...starting tomorrow, she'll tell you all about her life on the job, the other interns, and whether a fashion internship is all really as glamorous as it seems on The Hills. Stay tuned!

2010-06-14T06:59:00.013+02:00

Our latest obsession has got to be StyleSofia.com. They've got the cutest selection of dressy and casual tank tops and skirts for the summer, and we particularly love their gold tank top (shown above), which goes perfectly with any skirt or pant. While we adore online shopping heavens such as Shopbop.com and Asos.com, we've got to admit - it's not always affordable. On the other hand, most of the items we found on StyleSofia.com were under $40 - not too shabby!

STYLESOFIA also supports ethical & sustainable fashion by partnering with key green designers such as KAYU and The Uniform Project, and by ensuring that production minimizes wastage at every level. So, when you are purchasing from StyleSofia, you can rest assured that your dollar is going towards a worthy cause.

2010-06-10T04:19:00.005+02:00

Street Style: Midtown New York City

After returning from France just a few weeks ago, our eyes are still adjusting to the idea of (gasp!) colors and patterns. The idea of greens, reds and purples seems almost normal now, but seeing a neon orange,almost Lady GaGaesque jumpsuit with colorblocked heels was the final step in shocking us out of our France color (or lack there of) guidelines. The limits are now endless, and who knows! Maybe rainbows and sparkles will be the next staple of La Societe de Mode! The neon excitement is simply too much!

....phew, sorry about that, but jokes aside, the originality of this grandiose mass of land we like to call America is simply overwhelming. It's been eye opening to see the U.S.A. through the eyes of a European these past few weeks.

Bis,
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-06-03T05:19:00.008+02:00

Street Style: Willowbrook Mall

So we're back in the States for the summer and the first stop we made was the Willowbrook Mall in Houston, Texas. We may no longer be in France, but that doesn't mean that there aren't plenty of French-inspired looks to be seen. Sophia, 21, channeled Parisian summer chic in a striped navy blue dress and an adorable blue-white-and-red printed summer scarf, completed with a Chanel clutch. She radiated elegance and style - just like a Parisian should.

2010-05-30T07:39:00.009+02:00

Time Out With Maria Confer

Maria, better known as the mastermind from Michigan behind the adorable blog Lulu Letty, never turns down an opportunity to slap on a hair bow or pull out some vintage. Maybe her eye for decades past is why her blogging, twitter, Etsy and formspring empire boasts over 1,000 followers to date and is still getting more popular by the moment. Featured on everything from Modcloth to Queens of Vintage, Maria is slowly working her way around the blogosphere. Lookin' to learn more? Luckily, her most recent stop just happens to be chez La Societe de Mode.

Favorite designer? I don’t really have a favorite, but many big fashion houses like Chanel, Hermes, and Ralph Lauren, consistently inspire me year after year.

Maria's famous sketches found on her Etsy

Favorite fabric? Wool tartan

Favorite city? London

Tell us a bit about your life I’ve been married for seven years and have two crazy dogs, Wellie and Pip.

Favorite wardrobe essential? Hair bows
Favorite Food? Anything Mexican, especially fried ice cream!

What do you love the most about fashion? The freedom to step into your closet and resurface as whoever you want to be that day. I find myself mostly channeling movie characters.

What's your biggest inspiration? Definitely other bloggers. They drive my creativity and push me to try new looks that I would typically shy away from. Otherwise, old movies are a huge inspiration to me.

If you could live anywhere, where would it be and why? London for sure. I love that it’s so old and that the fashion there is very eclectic.

Favorite decade? Oh, I love both the late fifties to early sixties and the late seventies to early eighties.

How'd you get your start? I first started my blog as a place to post my finished sketches. Then after stumbling upon Liebemarlene, I decided that fashion blogging seemed like such fun. I posted my first photo shoot in June ’09.

Unfortunately, no famous last words today, but don't get wrong impression, Maria still has few things left to say. Ask her about her fabulous chicness at www.formspring.me/lululetty or
check out her great tutorial on just how she manages to have such perfectly red lips at the D.I.Y. section of her blog. Still not enough? Channeling your inner Maria by picking up
a sweet hairbow at her Etsy should help you get your fill.

Until next time,
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-05-27T01:29:00.003+02:00

Street Style: Rue de Fougeres

Sunlight special in isle number 1! 3 for 1 deal on cute summer ensembles that'll keep you cool, chic and very French. Whether it be sporty white lace-ups with bloomeresque shorts and a button up for that classic menswear look, a flirty ruffled dress with little booties for a sweet girly look or a scarf, tights and cowboy boots for that country chic look, you can't go wrong in Rennes when the sun's-a-shinin'.Don't wait another second before these fabulous looks are all sold out.

Bisous,
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-05-24T20:47:00.003+02:00

Time Out with Hannah Byun

We love tights. We experience long and cold winters here in Rennes, and when you're rotating between four or five coats all winter long, tights are key to keeping your outfits interesting. Loud and statement tights are the key to snazzing up any fall/winter ensemble. That is why we're obsessed with Hannah's line Hansel from Basel, which focuses on only tights and hoisery. We took some time out of our day to chat with her about her unique L.A.-based brand, which has been wildly successful - most recently, her tights were featured on the cover of Teen Vogue's March issue.

1.How did you get your start in the industry..what was the big "kick-off" point for you? and any advice for aspiring designers?
well, i had a fun little launch party hosted by my friend who owns creatures of comfort. that's all it took. a good friend, a good store, and good socks. :)

2. As a company that does only socks and tights, do you think this gives you an advantage in the industry?..and we've gotta know, do you wear your own socks?
i do wear my own socks and yes, this gives me a definite advantage. a lot of doors have opened up for me bc i have such a niche skill set. for example, i do an exclusive line of legwear for other retailers which is fun and great!

3. If you had 200,000 dollars to spend at saks, what would you buy from the SS 2010 collection ?
wow. can i save that and buy a house instead?

4. What was your childhood like? did you design already, or did that start later in life?
i always grew up drawing and painting. i was an art student for much of my life. i knew i wanted to do design but coming from a liberal arts background, i wasnt sure how i was going to make clothes. i had an in with socks and it was the perfect fit.

5. Whats the inspiration behind the name Hansel from Basel?
it's kind of an alter ego. it sums up a bunch of my interests: german things, switzerland, and cute little elves wearing lederhosen.

2010-05-19T20:21:00.003+02:00

Street Style: Thabor Gardens

This week we've been hanging around the Thabor Gardens as the weather's been getting nicer, and it seems as though it's a popular hangout spot for university kids after school as well. That's where we found Morgane, 19. Morgane sports the classic Keds which are a staple in any French wardrobe, but we love how she ditched the overdone longchamp bag for something a little more exciting. Her oversized vintage tote was definitely what caught her attention. We love how she dressed down her formal school-uniform jacket with a casual checkered button down tucked into a black nylon skirt. Simply put, we can't get enough of her reinvention of the classic school girl ensemble.

2010-05-16T21:10:00.008+02:00

Time Out with Robin Black

Oh no kiddos, don't get the wrong impression. This go getter is anything but a simple songbird. As someone who proclaims herself as "the editor in chief and pragmatic anarchist" of her magazine…that's right HER magazine The New Tough she’s more like a hard rock vulture, ready to pounce on any opportunity that presents itself far below and who leaves a trail of clashing, but curiously catchy chords along the way with an awesome bangin' baseline that creates tunes too sick for words. You know what we mean? Are we making sense? Wait... No? Well, good. We feel that this is just the way this antiestablishment photographer and make-up artist gone magazine editor would like it.

Say hello to our little friend, Robin Black.

The Latest issue of The New Tough
Favorite Designer?: Vivienne Westwood for her balls, plus Yoji Yamamoto, Ann Demeulemeester and Rei Kawakubo because art never goes out of style,military fatigues (not quite sure who designs them but I am addicted
to vintage German army coats and boots!).

The 2nd Issue of The New Tough
Favorite Decade ?: I was born in the mid 70's and the culture (in particular, early punk)
has definitely influenced my work. I also am quite attached to the
photography from that decade. The late 80's / early 90's were my
teenage years and so I also have a certain nostalgia for that period.

Favorite camera: my trusty Contax T2.
Favorite person:Nick, my partner in crime and the art director of The New Tough.

Best "dirty little secret": Recently? I kidnapped a Marine from his military base and took naked photos of him for Butt magazine.... wait... can I go to jail for that? If so, it didn't happen.

Favorite hotspot: The 29 Palms Inn just outside of Joshua Tree, California. It's the

perfect desert hide away.

Quick childhood summary:I was raised on a boat, traveling around the
South Pacific, by an Irish/German father and a Japanese mother.Famous Last words: "All good things are wild and free." - Henry David Thoreau

Isn't it amazing how free and wild boating can make a child? We would highly recommend it, you know for fashion's sake.

While we're out rigging sails, take a peak at the newest issue of The New Tough at www.thenewtough.com. Just promise us that you won't be too scandalized...can't say we didn't warn you.

Bis,
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-05-12T19:22:00.003+02:00

Street Style: Thabour Gardens

Maddy: Oh my! What can that bright warm light coming from above possibly be that allows us to wear flippy little sundress while embracing flippy haired little French boys?

Rebecca: Golly Gee! I have no idea Maddy, but it's almost as fabulous as that combination of oxfords with a retro pattern and a red checkered shirt with leather and clean white Keds.

Maddy: Rebecca! I just looked it up in my French-English dictionary...apparently it's called a "soleil". What a strange idea! It sounds so much better than that wet stuff, rain.

Rebecca: Wow! thats fabulous.

Maddy: Fab-fab fabulous

Well obviously we have very deep and intelligent conversations, but seriously this couple was as cute as an oversized glass button on a classic trench. If they look friendly in the photo imagine them 10 times friendlier in real life. Oh the wonders and magic of the French...

Rebecca: Magic? Wonders? Maddy, why are you talking to yourself?

Maddy: Yeah, about that...

.... umm, well I gotta go so we'll see you next week, ok?

Bis
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-05-09T23:29:00.004+02:00

Time Out with The Stylish Wanderer

For anyone who's spent even the least bit of time surfing around the internet looking for fashion inspiration, they are sure to have come across this kid's blog. The Stylish Wanderer is only one year older than Tavi Gevinson, but her impeccably refined and classy outfits are a far cry from Tavi's experimental and daring miss-or-hits. TSW's taste is seriously to die for. How someone in middle school can possess all of this fashion wisdom is seriously a mystery to us. This week we were lucky enough to sit down with her for some quick Q&A.

Favorite decade? My current favorite is the 1930s
Favorite designer? Oh thats so hard! Either Alexander McQueen or Chanel or Chloe
Top 5 song playlist?
Currently:
Satellite Heart- Anya Marina
Fame- David Bowie
Weird Fishes- Radiohead
Mansard Roof- Vampire Weekend
Hero- Regina Spektor
Favorite Food? Avacados!
Favorite Party Outfit? Vintage sequin flapper dress with black pumps. So much fun!
Favorite fabric? Linen
What do you love the most about fashion? The fact that you can express yourself through what you are wearing. I also just love the fabrics and matching things together. Its so much fun.
Favorite city? Toss up between either New York or Los Angeles.
Favorite wardrobe essential? Marc by Marc Jacobs butter leather handbag
Whats the best fashion related memory you have? Going to the Marc by Marc Jacobs show in New York City and seeing all of the famous models (like Karlie Kloss) and actually seeing the clothes walk on the runway.
Famous Last words? Be inspired.

Until Wednesday,

Rebecca&Maddy

2010-05-05T13:21:00.003+02:00

Street Style: Place de la mairie

When we stopped to ask these two étudiantes for their photo, they seemed a little bit embarrassed by our request at first. "We're dressed like such slobs today!" they said, smiling sheepishly as we took their photo. Josephine and Caroline, however, have mastered the art of throwing on a patterned scarf on a lazy day. Let's face it: without their fierce animal print or bold blue patterned scarves, their jean-and-t-shirt outfits would not have even captured the least of our attention. So, next time you wake up with 5 minutes to spare, don't reach for that necklace or bracelet to accessorize your less-than-stellar outfit, throw on a scarf!

2010-05-02T11:37:00.015+02:00

Featuring
and the new Neo Military Jacket in natural tan. Which features a classic style and an a-symmetrical collar, diagonal front zip, vertical arm zips and a horizontal back zip. It retails for £595.
Magenta 8 is about as comfy as you can get without resorting to uggs or, even worse, sweatpants.No no, we're not thinking of loungewear, we're talkin' cute boleros and jackets made of buttery soft Alpaca wool thats can translate from day to night.So what's the story behind the brand? Well, once upon a time...

Giovanna Velasquez – Magenta 8
The Story
Giovanna Velasquez founded Magenta 8 in 2006, secure in her belief that independent women preferred independent design. Velasquez hails from a long line of stylish Peruvian women - women who insisted upon a separate room for their personal tailors to measure bespoke garments which were shipped across from Europe.

Born into this captivating fusion of traditional and glamorous lifestyles, it was only natural Giovanna would weave her childhood stories into the wonderful designs of her Magenta 8 label. Originally, a handbag and accessories designer her sense of style is instantly recognizable; rich with hidden details and exquisite linings.
Every garment is handcrafted using the finest Alpaca wool, chosen for its softness, exceptional warmth and natural benefits.

Wrapping up in a Magenta 8 design is to know true femininity, warmth, luxury and elegance – all at once.

Hummingbird Collection 2010
"Legends say that hummingbirds float free of time carrying our hopes for love, joy and celebration. Like a hummingbird, we aspire to hover and savour each moment as it passes, embrace all that life has to offer and to celebrate the joy of everyday. The hummingbird’s delicate grace reminds us that life is rich, beauty is everywhere, every personal connection has meaning and that laughter is life’s sweetest creation"

Magenta 8, magnificently yours.

Ready to wrap yourself in luxury and warmth? Head over to www.magenta8.com to check out all of their newest collection.

Till Wednesday,
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-04-28T22:09:00.003+02:00

Street Style: Rue le Bastard

Official Report: On behalf of Rebecca, Maddy and The Fashion Society, we'd like to declare our official findings behind the sleek silhouettes of the French. Surprisingly it has nothing to do with genes or diet, but with cute little suede or leather heeled boots wobbling around on cobblestone all day long. Give it a shot and try sayin' it's not a workout. Plus studies show that picking out outfits that seem effortlessly chic tend to require lots of bending and lifting so of course finding that perfect combination of an easy cotton dress and a heavy oversized coat has more than just the obvious benefits of a bold tenue. So if pumps and bumpy roads are all the exercise a teenager could need, then how do the French boys pull it off? Guess we’re headed back to the lab…

Bis
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-04-25T22:00:00.004+02:00

La société de mode Reader Discount Alert

La société de mode is currently teaming up with Buyitrighthere, a brand new fashion website is focusing on dispelling the myths surrounding Ugg boots. The site is also expanding to include guides on comfortable fashion in general. As Naomi Sanders, the founder of the website, says: "Fashion brings so much more to life if it can be therapeutic and healthy. Often comfort and fashion clash and we sacrifice our sanity to fit into the size 6 dress and live with the blisters from new heels." Naomi will also be introducing designer ranges and brands which attempt to balance fashion and comfort without designer prices. From now until May, you can receive a $30 gift certificate when you purchase something from Buyitrighthere by entering the code 321LASOCIE.

2010-04-21T22:37:00.005+02:00

Street Style: Rue Hoche

Though we have been seeing more of the sun in Rennes, that doesn't mean that there aren't a few windy days here and there. Clarissa looks spring-time appropriate with her adorable ballet slippers and pleated skirt, yet fights off the wind with her leather jacket and wool scarf. Her bright red bag keeps her ensemble from looking to monochromatic, but we think her best accessory is her hair. Natural and non-fussy healthy hair is the way to go, guys. Plus, it just looks beautiful when it catches the wind.

2010-04-18T22:10:00.029+02:00

Time Out with Laura Hearn from LauraLaura

This "cuteasabutton" jewerly and clothing designer has brought second-hand revamping to a new high. Her sweaters, all soft and cozy vintage finds embroidered with artsy phrases, are irresistably adorable and creative. Yes, we know it's the beginning of the toasty season, but it's totally worth being slightly "chaud" if it means wearing an original LauraLaura creation.

The Fashion Society was able to get in a few words with this creative cutie and somewhere between learning that she picked up her trade from grandma and that each sweater is hand detailed, we came to the conclusion that the Society members just had to hear what Laura Hearn has to say about small towns and the fashion industry.
-----

LSDM: What gave you the idea to make hand embroidered knitwear and how long does it normally take per sweater?

LH: I bought a very plain but gorgeously mustard lambswool jumper in a charity shop and decided it needed something. My nan taught me chain stitch when I was younger - it was about the only stitch i had the patience for, it moves along nice and quickly. I embroidered "I am a Secret" and it was always a talking point, so the label developed from there. Each sweater takes a while but its easy to pick up as and when. I actually really enjoy the sewing, it's easy to get caught up in day-to-day business chores so its nice when it's time to sit down and create.

LSDM:Can you give us a little background about your childhood, your highschool years and what lead you up to this point?

LH:I grew up in a small country town, where everyone knows everyone and there's no topshop. It was a good place to grow up, but somewhere you definitely have to leave to find your way in the world. At school I hovered between being nerdy and rebellious. I'd get told off for turning up in stripy tights, but my homework was always on time. Although by 6th form I got quite lazy, and after an art foundation I think had education fatigue. As a consequence I only did a year of a degree in Graphic Design at Camberwell College of Art - a year that was wonderfully rich in experience. I moved into retail, as a means to pay the rent, but it turned out to be the most valuable experience in carving out my career.

LSDM:What's your favorite collection of all time?

LH:I'm not an avid follower of the shows - I tend to dip in and out, and pick up on colours or themes across a season rather than from a single label. My biggest inspiration is vintage clothing, my taste is hugely eclectic from 20's flapper to 60's mod and everything in between. I love to see designers re-inventing the classics, Burberry's continual development of the trench never ceases to excite me.

LSDM:Can you tell us about your experience in the fashion world?

LH:To be honest I don't have a great deal of "formal" experience, most of what I've learnt has come from working for small boutiques where everyone has to muck in and you get to do a bit of everything. That's the wonderful thing, with the advent of the internet you really can just get out there and give it a go. You don't have to be knocking on the door of Vogue waiting to be noticed, fashion blogs are such an immediate and fresh way of sharing what's new, and readers are in your boutique at the click of a mouse.

LSDM:Have any advice on getting fashion internships and getting your foot in the door?

LH:To be open-minded, the best experience won't necessarily come from "your ideal job". For example, as an intern in a large fashion magazine chances are you'll be doing the Starbucks run and unpacking endless returns but as a sales assistant in a small boutique I was regularly dealing with stylists and helping them pick out items for shoots.

LSDM:How long have you been making hand embrodiered garments?

LH:I guess I must've embroidered that first jumper about 3 or 4 years ago now and I still wear it regularly. I've always customized clothes, in my teens I used to stencil t-shirts with bands logo's because I was too skint to buy the official ones!

LSDM:Where are the thift stores where you find all of your second hand knitwear?

LH:I buy the knitwear from all sorts of places - charity shops, online or from vintage dealers - but trawling through is no hardship, I'm a jumble sale addict. The problem with London nowadays is that the charity shops are a bit too canny. I know it's more money for the charity but I do miss unearthing a proper bargain. When I visit my sister back in Suffolk we always go on an epic charity shop tour - last time I got some stunning vintage micro-mosaic clip on earrings, they were £7 and the little old lady just looked astounded as I handed over the cash - they were literally the most expensive thing in the shop!

LSDM:and Lastly, do you have any famous last words?

LH:Always dream.
-----

So we're not exactly sure how you "CoCo" but seeing as it must be related to Chanel, we're dying to learn. While we're out Googling feel free to browse though Laura's masterpieces at www.lauralaura.net

Until wednesday
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-04-10T07:29:00.005+02:00

Society Update: We're off to Provence!

School trips just seem to be appearing one after the other these days with the latest being to the south of France. We're incredibly excited to escape the rain of Rennes and lounge in the sun on sunny beaches. Okay, so maybe we're a little idealistic, but as long as we get to get our fair share of R&R, we'll be happy.

So please have a nice week and remember to stay fabulous.

bis
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-04-07T20:22:00.008+02:00

Out and About: Outre Measure

Alright, you caught us; no street style this week. However ne t'inquiete pas, cause this chic boutique is bound to give you as much inspiration as any fashionable frenchie ever could. This goldmine of footwear, hidden just on the corner of Rue Lafayette has some serious shoes. Every color, every size, every season and every price you could ever want is just waiting to be found through two glass door neatly marked Outre Measure. A haven for shoe hoarders, Outre Measure is bound to inspire your closet to look better than ever. After all, a new pair of kicks can really spruce up a wardrobe and save you millions in clothing purchases ....now just keep telling youself that as you whip out that AmEx...

2010-04-04T09:08:00.005+02:00

The Anglomania by Vivienne Westwood for Lee collection

We can't get enough of Vivienne Westwood's collaboration with Lee jeans. She paired up with the jeanswear powerhouse for her showings at Hong Kong and Milan fashion week. The line takes its main inspiration from Vivienne's punk /pirate collections throughout the 70's and 80's but also the dynamic cuts she has developped throughout her career. These designs have been re-interpreted using Lee's extensive knowhow in the field of jeans. The Anglomania by Vivienne Westwood for Lee collection will be distributed by Vivienne Westwood stores as well as through a selected number of retailers world-wide and shall be available July 10th...get your credit cards ready!

2010-03-30T21:32:00.006+02:00

Street Style: Centre Columbier

On our way to ESMOD Rennes this past week, we stopped by Centre Columbier and spotted this cutie. His navy blazer/khaki/loafter ensemble were all very classic school appropriate but we particularly loved his bright red school bag and rocker tee.

2010-03-27T17:12:00.003+01:00

Time Out with The Starving Stylist

Anyone who's willing to starve for a bright shiny new pair of man boots we know HAS to be pretty cool and The Starving Stylist sure didn't prove us wrong. He's always laughing at someone's tacky pink jumpsuit, or blabbing about how airport security's only real use is for a photoshoot backgroud ( the editorial's pasted on his blog and looks AMAZING), but no matter what, he never forgets to include his style shoots to keep the blogs focus on it's star. Him. So, enough with boring us and let's get to the spice and sass of the Starving Stylist.

LSDM Your blog is so witty and well written..are you really that sassy in real life? and what do your friends think of your blog?

SS My writing is basically the mirror image of who I am in person, but a little less bitchy but just as sassy. I get a lot of support from my friends for my blog, especially when I include images of them in my entries. They just LOVE the shameless self-promotion I feed them.

LSDM We know you only as "the starving stylist"..what's your real name, your occupation? (we're guessing stylist for some reason..but you can never be too sure) what you were like as a teenager? anything else you'd like to let us in on?

SS My real name is Peter and I am strictly a fashion slave. I’m not necessarily a stylist of any sort but basically I am someone who devotes most of their time sharing their passion and love for the industry.

As a teenager, I was very reserved and always kept my thoughts in my mind and words underneath my tongue. But it wasn’t till after college did I became more vivacious. I’ve always been sassy and outgoing but no one knew that until I started opening up and not worrying about what others thought of me. It was like opening up a new can of worms because I’m definitely getting a lot of attention now.

LSDM As far as college goes did you always know you wanted to be in fashion, and therefore, attend a school for it? or did you make this choice afterwards?

SS I studied Marketing Management in college for a short period of time and a few years later discovered my passion and studied Fashion Merchandising and graduated with honours.

LSDM What's your fashion goal/ dream life?

SS My dream is to be sitting front row in Paris at the Chanel runway show, across from Carine Roitfeld and wearing thick black sunglasses that are bigger than Anna Wintours’.

LSDM whats your ideal party/ party outfit for guys and for girls?

SS When I think of party outfits, I think of major glam and dapper looks. Dress to impress is basically the idea. Boys in blazers, slim fitted pants and polished footwear while the ladies, I would love to see in short cocktail dresses and dripping in shiny accessories from head to toe. Also, if any girl strolls in wearing flat shoes and not in heels higher than 3 inches then she should be denied entry into the party.

LSDM Famous last words?

SS “Know your worth and don't EVER settle for anything less.”

Isn't he just a treasure? To see more of the little darling, scoot your boot over to www.thestarvingstylist.com

Bis,

Rebecca&Maddy

2010-03-24T19:33:00.002+01:00

Street Style: Bus Stop Champion de Cicè

As spring finds it's way into our wardrobes and onto the streets, denim jackets seem to be popping up everywhere. Seriously though, what's not to like about 'em? They go with everything, feel like your boyfriends jacket but accentuate any feminine flair and travel like a dream. We go gaga over the aged denim mixed with flirty skirts that the French girls pull of so well. How in the world do they manage to look so cute? We highly suspect that there's something hidden in the croissants...just sayin'.

2010-03-20T09:29:00.003+01:00

Behind the Scenes at Alison White

The biggest joy in our "job" (I put this in parenthesis because our "job" includes going to Paris Fashion Week and receiving free goodies at showrooms...quite a job, we know) is finding the relatively unknown labels and sharing them with the rest of the world. We were quite excited to be invited to Alison White's showroom, as we were intruiged by her idea to launch a women's wear line comprised of articles made uniquely of cashmere (although the label also carries leather handbags). The Alison White showroom in the 2ème arrondissement in Paris seemed quite modest in terms of decor; however, the articles of clothing spoke for themselves. We tried on a few vests, gilets, and jackets, and we have to say, this stuff felt incredible. They were as soft and comfy as your everyday sweats, but sooo much cuter, of course. Not to mention, the prices were entirely reasonable. The commercial director behind the brand, Charlotte, says that the decision to launch a cashmere brand was a personal one - Alison loves the intimacy and the irresistable soft feel that cashmere has.

Her pieces appeal to an incredibly wide range of audiences. There was an incredible selection of more casual wear (see photo above) and classier evening/workday wear (see below). We particularly loved the spunky white sequined vest in the photo shown above. However we thought the leather sac (below) was pretty fabulous too.

2010-03-17T18:33:00.000+01:00

Street Style: Boulevard de la Duchesse Anne

We spotted Sola's adorable printed dress from afar and chased after her to get this shot. Since we are constantly on the lookout for indicators of spring, her earthy floral ensemble grabbed our attention right away. When we came closer, we noticed the adorable rose hair-pin and bright-red painted fingernails. We're such suckers for colors and detailing, but Sola manages to make it not look overdone. She looks like she just came frolicking out of a beautiful daydream or rêve...not to mention she's pretty gorgeous herself too.

2010-03-13T22:08:00.010+01:00

Time Out with Fred Flare's Press Manager: Chris Bick

It's no secret that we can't resist a little bit of Fred now and then. With trinkets and doo-dads that you never knew you needed, but are too cute to resist pasted all over their website, it's a suprise we've manage to refrain from buying out the whole store. Now that Fred Flare has added their Cute store in New York to the mix, we just knew we has to get in touch with the guy behind the adorable ads of Fred Flare, Chris Bick, for a little Q& A.

Favorite decade? Such a tough question! 20's for the flappers, 60's for the crisp suits and pencil skirts, 80's for shoulder pads and Madonna and 90's for the grunge

Favorite designer? Marc Jacobs, Proenza Schouler, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen, Alexander Wang, so many on this list!!

Top 5 song playlist? Diva smackdown... Anything by Madonna, Anything by Beyoncé, Anything by Lady Gaga, Anything by Mariah Carey, Any top 10 hit from the 90's

Favorite food? Cupcakes. Duh.
(DUH!)

the New York "cute" store

Favorite party outfit? Hmmm. For boys: Rolled slacks, crispy shirt, bow-tie, black frame glasses and a vest. For girls: High waisted tapered pants, striped crop top, blazer, chunky / layered necklace, side braided hair, Brian Atwood nude platform patent leather shoes... SIGH.

Favorite fabric? cashmere or cotton!

Favorite city? PARIS / New York

Favorite wardrobe essential? Heels! HIGH PLATFORM HEELS!

Famous last words? Strike a pose...

Fred Astaire, the company's inspiration

Fred Flare, named after the fabulously flamboyant dancer, Fred Astaire, has GOT TO be the cutest place in town. If everyone's as bubbly as Chris, I think we've found our first intership inquiries...we just hope that we aren't required to wear green plaid or white plunging v-necks for the job.

Bisous,

Rebecca&Maddy

2010-03-10T21:23:00.000+01:00

SYA Style: Brianna Foley

We can't deny that some of us Americans have conformed to the French rainbow of black, blue and brown when it comes to our ensembles, which is why it was so refreshing to see Brianna wearing eye-popping red in a sea full of winter hues. Her jacket, a trinket from the 80s stolen from her mothers closet, is set apart from your typical blazer with it's bold color and gold chain. Her jumper, a find while in Greece, and her jewerly, which she has collected from all over the world, show off her jet-setter tendancies and, best of all, her boots tell everyone that a girl of 5' 10" should never be afraid to wear heels. Bien fait Brianna..bien fait.

2010-03-07T09:31:00.006+01:00

Behind the Scenes at ba&sh

ba&sh showroom, Paris

We visited the ba&sh showroom on a recent trip to Paris and had the chance to discover their S/S 2010 and A/W 2010 collection. ba&sh was created by Barbara Boccara and Sharon Krief, two Parisians who sought out to create chic clothing for their every-day wardrobe. Opting to choose non fussy fabric such as cotton and silk, their clothes convey modernity and chicness while maintaining practicality at the same time. We particularly loved their dresses, skirts, which are feminine and romantic - some are flirty and some are sophisticated - and all perfect for the summer! Frankly, we can't wait to wear our latest ba&sh items during our trip to the south of France this April.

Because the A/W 2010 collection is still in the works and highly confidential, we thought we'd share with you some of our favorite looks from the ba&sh S/S 2010 collection.

Bis,

Rebecca & Maddy

2010-03-03T23:14:00.003+01:00

Street Style: Place de la Mairie

Absolutely nothing announces spring quite like a candy colored pink coat, a floral mini skirt and color blocked shoes. However, with her beautiful red locks in the mix, we’re not quite sure if we adore it or feel a bit of a color overload. Either way, what we do know for sure is that we respect her individuality. Wearing more than a 1/3 yard of pink in France just doesn’t really happen outside of fashion week and usually ends up in weird stares when in public. All we can say is that she’s got some killer confidence …and heels.

2010-02-28T03:18:00.002+01:00

Time Out with Olivia Lopez

If you've been on Lookbook.nu, you've most likely come across the profile of high school senior Olivia Lopez. She's one of the most hyped users on the site today and it's not hard to see why. We can't get enough of her spunk, and her quirky and always refreshing style always sharply contrasts with her laid-back Southern Californian roots. This model/blogger extraordinaire was first photographed when she was 13, and quickly received numerous inquiries to model for clothing companies soon after. Despite her tiny frame, by the time she was 14 she already started modeling for Hellz Bellz, Spanish Moss Vintage, Peeps.org, and Miss Wax Jewelry. She created her Lookbook when she was 16, and the rest is history...

La société de mode: OK. So you're a model. What do you eat? Do you try to stay healthy to maintain your tiny frame by exercising, or are you one of those lucky b*tches that was blessed with a fast metabolism?

Olivia Lopez: I'm blessed with a very fast metabolism! I have horrible eating habits, I snack in the middle of the night, eat fast-food almost everyday (fried and spicy chicken are my favorite) and eat from 3-6 meals depending on my mood and schedule. On the otherhand I eat salads and take vitamins daily. l used to take 4-hour dance classes before it conflicted with my schedule...

LSDM: Being Filipino, what do you think about the lack of Asian models in the industry?

OL: I think Asian models are under-represented in the high fashion industry, (although there are always the rare arch-type Chinese or Korean model) more often that not the industry lacks representation of other Asian/Pacific Islander ethnicities.

LSDM: You obviously have impeccable style. So tell us, where do you shop?

OL: My favorite designers at the moment are Chloe and Christian Dior's Spring 2010. Some of my favorite brands are my friend's lines: American Gold by Spanish Moss Vintage, RAP by Valery Campbell, Cheap Monday, Dolce Vita and Erin Wasson for RVCA.

LSDM: From who do you draw your fashion inspiration?

OL: I draw fashion inspiration from people whose style aren't too construed and thought out-everyday people with confident swagger. Most of my fashion inspiration comes from music and film- from Julian Casablancas, Debbie Harry, Breakfast at Tiffany's, Rear Window with Grace Kelly, Almost Famous, The Virgin Suicides to Moulin Rouge and Zooey Deschanel!

LSDM: If you could raid any celebrity's closet, who would you choose?
OL: Jameela Jamil and The Olsens. They have impeccable style

LSDM: What are your favorite hotspots in L.A.? What do your friends think of your succeses, are most of your friends also in the fashion industry?
OL: For shopping I suggest visiting Melrose on Sundays (specifically for the Fairfax swapmeet, Wasteland, Slo, and Jet Rag parking lot dollar sales) and Space 1520. For nightlife I like going to Bardot in Hollywood and Freak City (my friends' venue) on Sunset. Many of my friends are also in the fashion industry which is always a plus!

LSDM: What are your plans after high school / do you plan on working full-time in the industry?
OL: My plans after high school include leaving home to go to college! I want to study Political Science, International Business and English/Literature. At the moment my fashion pursuits are a hobby, but if given the opportunity I would love to become a part of a major fashion publication powerhouse.

LSDM: Do you see yourself staying in L.A.?
OL: I'd actually love to move to San Francisco when I'm older. I love the windy weather, the environmentally conscious atmosphere and its historical significance in the world! Having an affinity for American classics only reinforces my desire to live there.

LSDM: And as always, any last words / advice?

OL: Be your own muse. Dress to impress....yourself!

Bisous,

Rebecca&Maddy

P.S. Check out our Teen Vogue feature! We nearly died.

2010-02-24T22:06:00.007+01:00

Street Style: Rue le Marois

The météo wouldn't stop chatting about snow's unexpected and enchanting appearance all over France. It's true, it was a delightful surprise, but if they’re gonna talk about the powder, they just can't forget the fancy full fur coats that popped up by its side. We caught Shanna just before she popped into her taxi and whether you’re siding with PETA or a total carnivore, one's got to agree that her fluffy fur upper body paired with skinny jeans, men’s ankle boots and a leather briefcase-esque bag make for a look that's ready to combat any weather.

2010-02-20T23:34:00.008+01:00

Dorothee Schumacher

Dorothee center A/W 2009

Dorothee Schumacher doesn’t believe in advertising...yet somehow her looks have popped up in everything from VOGUE to INSTYLE.

When most designers these days are scrambling to place their names on anything from fragrances to home décor, Dorothee spends her time developing personal relationships with her clientele. She personally invites her clients to all of her parties and events, and the invitations are passed by word of mouth. This seemingly slow method of promotion may seem to be a risky business move, but her strategy seems to have worked.

As a result, Schumacher’s clients are extremely loyal and the brand has been regarded as “one of the best kept secrets among fashion editors.” They opened the Berlin Fashion Week A/W 2010 with a “rebel-themed” collection, featuring classic items such as the tweed jacket given modern twists such as metallic finishes and voluminous collars.

Our visit to the Schumacher showroom was the highlight of our trip to Berlin Fashion Week A/W 2010. Although we were thirty minutes late to our interview due to the ridiculous traffic, Dorothee and her assistant Shola greeted us immediately with huge bear hugs and insisted that we drink hot tea after feeling our frozen fingers. We munched on tasty pastries while we toured their fabulous A/W collection the day after their runway show. The collection showed an incredible amount of attention to detail. Even their sporty tank tops were given unexpected twists, with their fur-trimmed shoulders. Delicate fabrics such as lace and silk were paired together with leather. The clothes, beautiful and designed for the open-minded and modern women, were comfortable, classy, and exciting a la fois. We sat down with Dorothee to hear the story behind the label and image that is Schumacher.

La société de mode: Schumacher just recently celebrated its 20th anniversary. How does it feel to be one of the front-runners of Berlin Fashion Week today, and did you ever imagine yourself in this position?
Dorothee Schumacher: Today Schumacher is much bigger than I thought [it would ever be] 20 years ago. However I always knew we wanted to do wearable fashion, which makes women feel good and makes them smile.

LSDM: Did you receive a formal college education, or did you have more of a hands-on experience?
DS: I never had formal training. I knew already when I was young that I wanted to work in fashion. I went to Italy to learn the language. I knew I had to learn Italian because fashion came out of Italy. My parents told me I could go to Italy they said they’d support me if I did training in a luxury house which I did, and I’m so happy I did this because I could SEE the idea behind retail. I learned organization and learned about women and what kind of women who buy fashion. The feedback today is wonderful. Wearable came back from this type of education that she had.

LSDM: It seems like the Italian ateliers have influenced your design aesthetic a lot. However your company is still based in Germany. Do you still feel attached to your native land?
DS: Germany is still home for me. Berlin is a big city, but the workspace is so private, its cozy and we need that. However our company is not sold here, it’s just a meeting place. Our headquarters are in Mannheim.

LDSM: Do you have any muses for your designs, are there any women that you consider to embody the ideals of Schumacher?
DS: Carla was so elegant [before serving as France’s first lady] and at the same time humorous. She was naturally easy and professional, friendly and simply wonderful.”

LSDM: Obviously not advertising your brand may be seen as a risky business move to some. How did you not give into the pressure to place advertisements in magazines and billboards?
DS: The word of mouth is so much stronger than advertising. We do something so much stronger. If one woman tells her best friend…that’s something. One paper cannot express it. We are personal, first and foremost.

LSDM: Well spoken. It seems like you develop such a close relationship with each of your clients. Are there any last words you’d like to share with them?
DS: Trust yourself and play with your feminine side. I would like to tell women that. We are so focused and we are so successful and now we have to learn not to hide the feminine side. It’s out weapon. It’s our prize.

Darn right it's our prize: a prize easily enhanced by Tiffany's jewelry and designer dresses! To see more fabulous Dorothee-isms check out the Schumacher website at http://www.schumacher.de/

Until Wednesday,

Rebecca&Maddy

2010-02-19T21:58:00.003+01:00

Attention Society Members!

Sorry we've been so absent lately; traveling has made our lives insane.
Now that we're done with running around from metro to metro for a while, we'll be back in action starting tommorrow with a fab interview.

Thanks for sticking with us!

Stay Fabulous,
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-02-10T15:25:00.001+01:00

SYA Style: Claire Stanton

Claire, a fellow student at our School Year Abroad program is always wearing something incredible. Her western, yet girly flair shows itself in each of her original ensembles. Normally we refrain from bringing our paparazzi act into school, but when Claire wore this corset style track jacket mixed with aquamarine accented cowboy boots, we just had to snap a photo.

2010-02-06T10:48:00.008+01:00

Time Out with Ulrika Sandstrom

"Trends are specific in Stockholm; people are sensitive to trends and not very individual."

Judging from the glamorous shots we've seen on every Stockholm street style blog out there, that came as quite a shock. To be honest, we didn’t know nearly as much about the world of Swedish fashion as we thought we did. That is, we didn’t know much until we had an interview with the lovely Sweedish designer Ulrika Sandstrom. This Stockholm Fashion Week regular, voted one of Who's Next's top ten designers, opened our eyes to how much fashion can differ from country to country and from city to city and how shoppers don't always understand the effort that goes into a design.

her anglo-mania inspired a/w 2010 collection

Forget the Barbies, I Want the Clothes: "I've always been very interested in fashion for as long as I can remember. It's always been something I've wanted to pursue."

Ulrika is one of those despicable people who grew up to be exactly what they always dreamed of. She’s been sketching and sewing since her childhood and her dream is slowly being revealed...sounds like a Disney movie in the making.

Asher Roth's not the only one who Loves College:"I studied fashion theory at Beckmans College of Design in Sweden and it was an unforgetaable experience. It's truly a wonderful school. I'm suprised it isn't better known because some very talented people come out of their programs. College gives you a nice intro into the world of fashion because the students generally aren't cocky enough to be cruel, but will try to talk themselves up as much as possible. The fashion world, once you leave college, can be hard, but it's worth it to do what you love."

Made for you with love by Ulkria: " I make each and every prototype by hand from start to finish. I've been at it for 6 years and that's what works for me. Unfortuantly, people dont always understand how much work it takes to make a garment. It's not just the construction, but picking out the trims and buttons and fabric and alterations and....well, it's just alot. People want high quality for cheap, like what H&M does. They just don't understand that individualism is worth the price."

Ulrika encorporates the Union Jake in a refreshing way with this dress from her A/w 2010 collection

(we expected to see thousand dollar garments after this statement, but every thing was under 200 euros! we were pretty darn tempted to buy everything we saw after that.)

Fancy Some Fish and Chips?: "Our latest collection is inspired by England and the Union Jack. We tried to tie it into garments without being overly obvious. Subtlety is definitely key. We really love the regality of cherry reds and wallpaper patterns and I think this might be my favorite collection yet."

Ulrika's A/W 2010 collection makes us twitchy with anticipation for London Fashion Week coming up in just a few weeks. Though honestly, we think this Swede may do a better job repping the Union Jack than some of her fellow English designers. Check out some of her collections scattered above or strut on over to her website to figure out which one suits your fancy.

Bis,
Your editors,
Maddy&Rebecca

2010-01-31T16:57:00.004+01:00

Society Update: Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week

We took Tuesday off from school to experience the magic of the crème de la crème of fashion: Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. We were invited to see the show of Stéphane Rolland. Along with being Cheryl Cole’s favorite designer, he just so happens to be the newest member of Haute Couture, a group of 11 exclusive to the best designers such as Chanel, Givenchy and Dior. Knowing we would arrive in Paris earlier than the show and that Chanel would be showing earlier that day, we decided to pop over and take a peek at Karl's most precious invitees and we WERE NOT disappointed by any means. It was fabulous chaos, just like how it should be.

Style icon Alexa Chung outside of Chanel

Stéphane Rolland's show, on the other hand, was much more demure. Located at Cité de l’Architecture et du Patrimoine, it was elegant, yet modern with his voluminous dresses and sharp-shouldered jackets. One of his most eye-catching look was a long white frock with a splash of black lacquer on the pocket. It was almost as if the model had midnight black nail polish leaking from her fingertips. Reports say that he worked with a chemist in order to perfect the layers of color. We also adored his closing piece: a sweeping white gown with laser cut pieces of plastic carefully sewn on to give it a 3D futuristic look that left everyone speechless.

Stephane successfully managed to bring modern flair to his always timeless pieces. This year, Chanel, too, favored a more modern and young approach to his collection. With the coming of 2010 brings new trends to these decade-old fashion houses. The change is refreshing, though one thing never gets old. The papparazzi surrouding Rue Cambon will always exist, and it will inspire us to work our asses off until we ourselves one day hold those Coco Chanel invitations we saw Alexa Chung and Tavi Gevinson arrive with.

Until Wednesday,
Your Editors
Rebecca&Maddy

2010-01-24T13:30:00.013+01:00

Society Update: Mercedes-Benz Berlin Fashion Week A/W 2010

Germany's Next Top Model's Fiona Erdmann

As first time visitors to Berlin for the Mercedes-Benz Berlin Fashion Week, we were immediately blown away by the evident energy and passion for fashion in the city. In comparison to other fashion weeks, Berlin is cool, new, edgy and trendy. Milan, Paris, London and New York are well-established fashion events, but, as Berlin Fashion Week designer Anja Gockel said, “Established means no big surprises, and no big surprises means boredom.” There was certainly no boredom at the Mercedes-Benz Berlin Fashion Week. The progression of fashion in this city is exciting and explosive. Although it would be truly impossible to convey everything we experienced, here’s a little sample into our jam-packed schedule in Berlin.

21.01.10 Thursday:

9:00 Arrival at Bebelplatz: Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Tent / Press Lounge

The press lounge at Fashion Week was modern and lively – encompassing everything that Berlin and Mercedes-Benz represent. As the celebrity guests and fashionistas piled in, the cameras staggered to snap photos red carpet photos. The Mercedes-Benz toy car stand and the ladies handing out free diet Coke were some of our favorite features. DHL dresses made from cardboard boxes and the Maybelline make-up demonstration stands were other fun additions.

10:00 Anja Gockel show

The highlight of the show was model Alek Wek who opened and closed the show. Ms. Gockel’s collection included a wide variety of jackets and skinny pants along with memorable body hugging dresses. The collection incorporated matte mixed with a little bit of shine, and structure mixed with feminine shapes. We thoroughly enjoyed her special blends of glamour and androgyny.

12:00 Visit to A.D.Deertz flagship store & interview with Wibke Deertz

Wibke’s menswear collection is truly a gem in the city of Berlin. She took us around her studio and flagship store, which was spacious and minimalist in order place all the attention on the unique subtleties of her laid-back menswear clothes line.

15:00 Tour of the Schumacher showroom & interview with Dorothee Schumacher

Schumacher was given the honor of opening Berlin Fashion Week and it’s not hard to see why. The incredible craftsmanship and attention to detail of the ladies behind Schumacher is truly remarkable. The theme of the winter collection, ‘refined rebel’, was evident in the clothes made of tweed, velvet, and chiffon in combination with leather, neoprene and metallic qualities. The luxurious and relaxed showroom was exquisitely designed and the perfect representation of the image of Schumacher – Made with Love. Not to mention, Dorothee Schumacher and her assistant, Shola, are truly wonderful and caring people, and they're our inspirations for life.

20:00 HBC Couture Designer Scouts Fashion Show

We were delighted to see A.D.Deertz’s collections on the runway with other up-and-coming designers in Berlin. A total of 9 designers showed over the course of two hours – from scantily clad men to plastic masks, it was a fun runway with great music and a fabulous after party!

22.01.10 Friday

10:30 Schacky & Jones breakfast at Hotel de Rome

The Hotel de Rome Salon Opera Court was the perfect backdrop for the Schacky & Jones Leather and Fur presentation. While munching on pastries and sipping tea, we enjoyed the A/W 2010 collection. We noticed the earth colors such as grey, rouge noir used along with the well-fitted pencil skirts with slant pockets and bandeau dresses that were classy and modern a la fois. Lizard animal prints and stretch-leather leggings were fun additions to the overall elegant look.

12:00 Bread&Butter Fashion Tradeshow

The Bread&Butter fashion tradeshow is truly the world’s largest and most influential fashion trade show. Thousands of internationally renowned brands such as Diesel and Ralph Lauren met with young, up-and-coming designers to show at the Berlin Tempelhof Airpot. All types of fashion were represented with exhibit rooms dedicated to Denim, Sportswear, Street Fashion, Function Wear, and Casual Dressed Up. In addition, with the constant after parties, outrageous fashion shows, and unparalleled magazine and press lounges, we never wanted to leave.

14:30 Hausach Couture show

The Hausach Couture fashion show was entertainment at it’s best. With a star-studded celebrity audience that included three of Germany’s next top models, this show was one of the most highly anticipated shows of the event. Berlin’s top DJ provided music for the show, and the crowd went wild for Lady GaGa’s “Bad Romance”.

16:30 Kilian Kerner show

Kilian Kerner, one of Germany’s leading designers, is a mainstay at the Mercedes-Benz Berlin Fashion Week. His A/W 2010 show was breathtaking, with a catwalk made from precious stones and a live band performing music specifically written for the catwalk presentation. The two-tone zippers on jackets and trousers, increased attention to vintage fabrics, and elaborately processed garments such as a floor-length red evening gown created a simply elegant and delightful show.

20:00 Michalsky StyleNite

The gem and centerpiece catwalk show of Fashion Week was held at the historical Friedrichstadt Palace. With nearly every major fashion company and publication including Vogue and GQ, and German elite in attendance, this event was packed with fashion’s biggest names, all ready to see Michael Michalsky’s designs. Although the event included Kaviar Gauche and Lala Berlin, the finale catwalk - a breathtaking geometrical maze that the models miraculously managed to walk on – belonged to Mr. Michalsky.

That about wraps up Berlin Fashion Week - we leave you with an image of Kilian Kerner mid-celebratory dance after his show.

À plus!

2010-01-19T15:36:00.000+01:00

Society Update: A Bientôt

We're headed off to marvel at the sights and sounds of Mercedes Benz Berlin Fashion Week and Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week. With interviews, trade fairs, fashion shows and celebrations on our schedule we're hoping we'll have some fabulous things to show you when we get back. Thanks for visiting and we'll see you next week!

Bis,

Your Editors

Rebecca&Maddy

2010-01-17T08:10:00.006+01:00

Time Out with the Editors of Go Fug Yourself:
Heather Cocks and Jessica Morgan

Everyone knows that "Fugly is the new Pretty"

They're "bitchy, funny, and just a tad vicious..." and the world loves them for it. They were recipients of the 2009 Bloggies "Best Fashion Blog" over the Sartorialist, and it's not hard to see why. After all, Jessica and Heather, also known as the fug girls, know just how to combine everything the world cares about: celebrities and fashion mishaps. So settle down in your silkiest jammies and a steamin' cup of joe to see what these two girls who blogged their way to NY fashion week told us about Fuggin' it up.

As all good things do, it started at a shopping mall: "We were out shopping one day, and we noticed that every single ad and poster in the mall was TERRIBLE. Everyone looked just awful. So we started joking that maybe that was the new trend -- that fugly was the new pretty -- and, because we were totally over-caffeinated, we really found this amusing. So we basically just started the blog as an in-joke between the two of ourselves, for our friends. We never ever thought anyone else would read it."

Fashion Week ...enough said: "Fashion Week is amazing.The people watching is great and the shows are really inspiring, even when they're bad. It's just fascinating. It's one of my favorite things to do in the whole world. I always say that if I get tired of Fashion Week, I am just too tired to live."

Heather and Jessica's Latest Publication

Les Nouvelles :
HEATHER: "I had identical twin boys in June, two months early, and yet they're healthy and happy and growing. Greatest gift of 2009 by far. And one that's turned everything upside-down, in the best possible way."

JESSICA: "Heather and I are working on a fiction book aimed at young adults that will be published by an imprint of Little, Brown in 2011 -- that's VERY exciting. We can't wait for people to read it!"

The Up's and Down's of Professional Blogging: "One thing that's nice about being your own boss is, you can tailor your work hours to other commitments -- meetings, appointments, sales at Banana Republic, whatever. The down side is that often, I'll spent my evenings and nights noodling around looking for pictures I can write about in advance and set them to publish the next day, to free me up for one of our other assignments. So it really can be an all-day thing, not even just a full-time thing. It's so easy to get sucked into the photo sites and lose a few hours. To compensate I try never to use my laptop on weekends."

a snapshot of the award-winning site

2010-01-13T06:31:00.004+01:00

Street Style: Place Republique

Photo : Madeline Fuhrman

Black Felted Hat
Checkered Foulard
Classic Bretange Striped Tee
Navy and Rose Plaid Coat
Rich Grey Wool Mini
Roman Gladiator Sandles
Classic Leather Satchel

First off, this look is not a normal sight in Rennes. It's rare that anyone steps out of the classic dress code of heeled cowboy boots, skinny jeans and a black double breasted coat. However, we're likin' the "par hasard" look that Marie's pulled together and wouldn't change a check on her fabulousity list for all the Alexander Wang in the world...but please....don't hold us to that and don't tell A.W. what we said.

2010-01-09T16:16:00.018+01:00

Time Out with Sandra Wininger

Coat: Vintage (her mother's); originally floor-length but had it trimmed for every day wear. Bag: Michael Kors.

After leaving her hometown of Paris for Israel when she was twelve years old, retired Hollywood costume designer Sandra Wininger has yet to slow down. At the tender age of fourteen, she began working in clothing stores and restaurants to help support her large family of seven. She never went to college, saying that “she was never given such an opportunity”, but with her street smarts and sheer drive, she proved that sometimes a diploma isn’t necessary.

When she was twenty-one, she packed up her bags and moved to London, where she was immediately inspired by the fashion, culture, opera museums, and of course, Tina Turner. After having conquered Great Britain, she took off for a trip around the world – it was just her and her backpack. On her first trip to Los Angeles, she wanted nothing to do with the “ugly city and the superficiality of the [movie] industry.” Oddly enough, it was through a babysitting job of hers a few years later where she met Claudia Weil – the director of Sesame Street – when her career took off.

Sandra, inspired by her travels around the world, particularly by the colors and prints she saw in Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, loved every minute of picking fabrics and making clothes. After many 18-hour days on set and $6/hour shifts at the Costumer’s Union to get accredited as a costume designer, she finally got invited to design as the head costume designer for her very first show – E.R. Though she eventually turned down the offer because she was pregnant with her first son, she scored positions as stylist and costumer for the original Melrose Place, the 1992 film Straight Talk starring Dolly Parton, and several Target and Gap commercials. This past weekend, she met us in Rennes to talk about her incredible “rags to riches” story.

Be prepared for The Devil Wears Prada-esque tasks: “When I was working on the Straight Talk set, Dolly Parton refused to wear anything but 6-inch heels with 1-inch platforms. Granted, back then they were difficult to find…we had to get 12-15 pairs custom-made for $800 a pair. Jodie [Tillen, her boss and head costume designer] then called one day and said Dolly didn’t like a single pair. Jodie said for me to get new shoes, to ‘figure it out in 3 days’. I started panicking, thinking…where can I get 6-inch platforms? And then I finally got it – sex shops on Hollywood Blvd! I got them for about $60/pair and she loved them. This all just goes to prove…how much you pay doesn’t mean a single thing.”

From costumes to window blinds: “Now I run an interior design business with my husband called F and R Interiors. Interior designing is, in many ways, an extension of my love of fashion. Clothing and interior design goes hand in hand – many times you’ll find that the color of the season on the runway is also the color of the newest curtains, and vice versa."

Her fashion philosophy: "I love fashion but I hate things that are 'in fashion' "

Cutthroat industry: “In Hollywood, it’s all about your connections and about how powerful your connections are. That being said, hard work is still key to succeeding. I’d much rather take someone who wakes up at 5 AM every morning and is willing to work than someone who has the diploma.”

2010-01-06T06:07:00.003+01:00

Street Style: Sainte Anne

Don't you love how his ensemble hollers "Frenchie!", but slightly more quietly than that, it whispers "goth". We adore how he throws off the classic all black ensemble with his own way of being. The way he holds himself excudes such a mysterious air of confidence and his gaze seems to hold a secret we will never understand... en tout cas, we love his look, and that black man-bag is, in our books, simply gold.

2010-01-02T21:14:00.004+01:00

Time Out with Oscar Lima

"Look out for OLIMA ...I'm coming for you"
Fashion designer extraordinaire Oscar Lima is making his mark in the fashion industry and he's headed your way. With the extraordinary flair of Alexander McQueen and an exquisite eye for detail and solid worksmanship, we can tell that dressing Lady GaGa is just the beginning of his fashion fame.

As someone we met through Brett Bailey, and knowing how much The Society likes to harass people with questions, he let us ask him about his past, present and future. Frankly, we can't wait to see where this kid goes.

Someone's a BJORK DORK ...no offense: "I'm extremely inspired by Bjork, I love her music, it's very hard for me to put it into words. I believe I owe credit to her for inspiring me in my designs. She can wear napkins and make it iconic. That's why my favorite fashion moment is definitely Bjork at the Oscars - she just let everyone have it. Hollywood actresses rarely push envelopes in an interesting way; I think Bjork just went there and didn't even think twice."

Bjork at the Oscars

Current Obessions:1. The 60s - There was something so modern going on back then, it's a timeless era without a doubt.2. Working with silk tulle, silk organza, and vinyl.
3. Listening to Deepeche Mode - Behind the Wheel

Confessions of a (gasp!) NON-Shopaholic: "I'm not much of a shopper. In fact, my favorite article of clothing is my Levis shorts I cut myself from a pair of pants - they were a staple in my summer wardrobe! I love great finds and for that I go to Luxedeville in Echo Park..They literally have everything! Mugler, vintage Givenchy etc. Instead of shopping, I love to go to Mustache Mondays, a great little club down the street from me whenever I just want to dance and hang out with friends."

Grandma Know Best: "One of my most vivid memories is going fabric shopping with my grandmother when I was little. She use to take me to all of the downtown fabric shops. We still go to this day and it's my favorite thing to do. Her wisdom is something I do not take for granted.

My love for fashion grew from my grandmother of course. Being around her, I always knew fashion was for me - I never once doubted it. I'm actually beginning to start my first complete collection, but you can say that one of my biggest beginnings was Lady GaGa wearing my Cape at the AMAs and on tour."

Famous Last Words?: "Never Dress for the Season...Dress for the Century!"
...we couldn't agree more, and as man of his words, his clothes seem to be described accurately by this phrase.

OLIMA royal blue dress in THENEWTOUGH. Styled by Brett Bailey. Photography by Robin Black.

Olima Net dress w/rouched detail and peplum ,net tights,Organza Blouse

Lady Gaga in a custm OLIMA vinyl cape styled by Nicola Formichetti.

Lady GaGa in a OLIMA vinyl strip cape & St. Peter for OLIMA hair glasses

OLIMA silk tulle pleated dress w/deconstructed trim. Styled by Brett Bailey. Photography by Zoe Grossman

Considering the magic he works with tulle and vinyl, we know we'll see his name in lights sooner or later. Lusting for more? check out
http://www.olimaatelier.blogspot.com/

Live well, Dress better
Maddy

2009-12-29T15:23:00.000+01:00

Street Style:Rue Lafayette

While on one of our many shopping adventures near Galeries Lafayette, we saw this wonderful woman just crossing the street and ran after her to capture her greatness on film. Truly, she just screamed “I am just splendid and unlike most of the world, I can pull of a wild black and white fuzzy jacket and patent leather men’s shoes and look pretty darn amazing". She was that great. When up close, we could see her heavy cat eyes and red lipstick and the detail of her adorable ruffled umbrella. Plus the way she used her dog as an accessory was just amazing. The angle is misleading, but he must have been at least three yards behind her when we snapped this photo. Overall, she's my French inspiration for life.

Live well, Dress better,
Maddy

2009-12-27T00:50:00.001+01:00

Street Style: Sainte Anne

Chloe, a 16 year old local lycéenne we met on the streets of Rennes, redefines the classic school girl look. She pairs her serious navy blue blazer with more playful denim cutoffs, and her tights make this ensemble winter appropriate. What we love most about her outfit are her accessories, though – who can resist those nerd glasses or big blue Blair Waldorf-esque bow? We give her A+ for effort and finished product.

Rebecca

2009-12-23T12:02:00.002+01:00

Time Out with Melanie Medina

Wearing: Vintage blazer, mustard vest, & black fur collar/Black patterned leggings/Mark Fisher hiking boots, unknown FABULOUS sunglasses.

Everything Melanie Likes, We Like.

17 year old LA native blogger Melanie Medina has some serious style. Bound to be the next Karla's Closet, we simply can't resist her edgy yet sweet ensembles. Her always effortless blends of vintage chic and modern designers always leaves us hanging for more.

Wearing: Vintage mustard blazer, sunglasses ,shoes, bag & scarf/"Stormy Night" leggings.

Designer Dreams and Handy High Fives: "Because I'm just an all-time shoe fanatic, my favorite shoe designer has to be Jeffrey Campbell. He's a genius. I would love to be able to meet him in person or design a shoe for him .. or just give him a high five. Gosh, that would be a dream come true. (Yes, I dream about designing shoes for Jeffrey Campbell & giving him high fives.)"

Retro Rêves : "If I had a time machine, I'd definitely set the date to 1960. I'd want to live where fashion was taking a turn & where something revolutionary was happening -- personal expression was at an all time high. When it comes to fashion, women wore extravagant clothes with an added edge. Short hair, long hair, men, women; everyone accepted everyone. Art, fashion, music; everything made sense."

Wearing: Vintage knit cardigan, mustard shorts & belt/Sheer black shirt.

Shopping Seductions : "As close as I live to the heart of Los Angeles, I have to say my "hotspot" -- regarding places to shop -- is a triple-tie between Melrose Vintage in Uptown Whittier, Value Village in Bellflower, and American Vintage in Fullerton. I always fall in love with something at either one of these places. Always. Not joking."

Like Muddah like Daughtah : "I'm extremely family-oriented so I have to say my biggest inspiration has to be my mother who taught me to appreciate everything in any form. She was also very big on fashion in the 80's. Such a snazzy-looking woman! She hates when I look at old photos of her because I end up asking her why she didn't save any of her shoes. What are the odds of a mother & daughter having the same size feet!? The way a person dresses tells who they are & what kind of person they are, so I feel like who I am inspires what I wear as well."

Wearing: Vintage sequin cardigan & white booties; Uo eagle t-shirt; AA shorts.

Vintage= History :" I believe that every vintage piece of clothing that I own has a different story to tell, so I love them all equally. Same goes with shoes! But if I had to choose a favorite, I'd have to say that I am completely in love with my black balmain jacket with gold trimming. It screams elegance! Amongst the piles of shoes in my closet, I have a ton of oxfords (they'll forever be my life-long lovers). My favorite pair is the most gorgeous black Mark Fisher oxords I snagged from American Vintage. They were the first thing my eyes met at the store. Fate, I tell you! FATE!"

Chips, Fashion Week and Agyness Deyn : "My love for writing reaches the stars - but the sky is never the limit when it comes to my love for fashion. I want to incorporate both in my life's career so I'm studying to become a fashion journalist. The best of both worlds! I'd also like to go to New York Fashion Week & hang out with Agyness Deyn for like, a day. You know -- go shopping, drink tea, eat fish 'n chips! She seems so friendly! That's considered part of a plan, RIGHT?!"

Wearing: Vintage gray jacket ,button-up shirt, bag & belt/AA black trousers/Oxfords

Famous Last Words : "My personal style reflects who I am as a person -- hence the word "personal." As feminine as I dress, I always add something edgy to balance an outfit. I'm a reincarnated 60's rebel who secretly loves to watch ballet. It doesn't hurt to stand out in a crowd, either."

isn't she just precious?
To see more, check out her fabulous blog.

I dont know about you, but we're heading over tout de suite.
Live Well, Dress Better, Maddy

2009-12-20T10:53:00.001+01:00

Someone's Been Gossiping About Us...

...but we don't mind.

One of our articles was recently featured on one of the best fashion blogging communities out there, Independent Fashion Bloggers. All we can say is that we couldn't be more honored.

Click here to read the feature

2009-12-19T21:25:00.000+01:00

Time Out with Monsieur Bazin

Monsieur Bazin is the very definition of class. He’s going into his 25th year teaching French literature to us eager Americans and we thought it was about time that his impeccable style was recognized. His brown patent leather shoes, Ralph Lauren button downs, and tweed blazers are some of the staples in his closet. Mr. Bazin bikes to school every day showing up in consistently classic ensembles. Not only is he known for his innate savoir faire, he is known for breaking up discussions of Les Fables de la Fontaine with the occasional James Bond impersonation. Recently he took a break from French literature to talk fashion.

His favorite designers say it all: “I love Yves Saint Laurent and Christian Lacroix. I like wearing classic clothes, but at the same time, I prefer to see something adventurous on others.”

Early riser: “In general, when I wake up, I think about how happy I am to be awake. I love waking up early. I find that I am more efficient in the morning than in the evening.”

Lucky strike: “I didn’t originally want to become a teacher. When I was young, I wanted my job to involve telling a story of some sort: I bounced between wanting to be a comedian, a lawyer, and a priest. I sort of stumbled across the job by chance. was lucky in the sense that my job corresponded with something that I was passionate about and I continue to be passionate about.”

Inspirations: Baudelaire et Rimbaud

Flashback to the Sixties: “The sixties were full of life for me. I was young, and it was a period of extreme excitement and passion.”

2009-12-16T23:31:00.002+01:00

Time Out with Brett Bailey

Wearing Mercura sunglasses, peace sign Philip Lim shirt, Pierre Balmain vintage blazer, Karl Lagerfeld Chinchilla helmet and, of course cheese wiz. Classy.

Love Bailey?
I know we do. Brett Bailey, a high-fashion sylist who's styled photoshoots for everyone from Rachel Bilson to Shaun Ross (the first albino male model) is like no one else we've met...which might explain why we were left awestruck after our interview with him this weekend. His unconventional ways seem to have gotten their start from his unconventinal catapult into the industry. As someone who started out as a primo ballerino whose troop was asked to be in a photoshoot for Vogue, he got a peek inside the industry that most of us can only dream about. All it took was a glimpse of Chanel hanging on the dressing racks and he was hooked for life.

After meeting him at fine dressmaking courses this summer, I recently got back in contact with him for a brief Q&A .

He simply can’t live without: Victor and Rolf....Gaultier, Givenchy and his favorite Vietnamise dish "Pho" from L.A resturaunt and hotspot, Absolutely Phobulous.

Favorite Flashback : Brett's a huge fan of the 70's: "The music, the art, Studio 54, Andy Warhol. It was a time of liberation.There are distinct moments from that era that have influenced so much of today." And, of course, he's fond of all the other wonderful things that have to do with the 70's that we can't write about. However his main inspiration is nothing more than the idea that everything must live up to the words "excessive pleasure".

Famous Last Words:: "Sexual"....nice.

Still not hooked? check out his latest collaberation with music video director Sergio Greko.

or take a look at the photoshoot he styled for Rachel Bilson.

or his work for Blend magazine

That about wraps up our newest fixation... to get yours heard over to www.lovebailey.com

Live well, Dress better

Maddy

2009-12-16T13:42:00.000+01:00

Street Style: Rue de la Monnaie

We're lovin' this new look we're seeing on the streets. Frenchies these days are starting to branch out from the french rainbow (navy, black, grey and, if we dare, maroon) and try fresh new shades such as ivory and rose. With the temperature plummiting a bit more each day, it's nice to see things livened up a bit with the perkiness of spring tones and the lightness of tulle and childish stripes.

Congratulations to Camilla, from Rennes, France, winner of the La Société t-shirt contest!
Thanks to all who participated. The Society adores you.

2009-12-13T14:18:00.000+01:00

Get in Formation with Combat Boots

The transformation is shocking. We’ve gone from light and airy summer ease to dystopian, gray winter style. We saw inklings of this strict militant style with the onset of October, but our suspicions weren’t substantiated until we were leafing through a copy of Vogue Hommes International where there was a feature article on the rise of military boots as one of the must-haves for winter. Even women have been getting in on the trend.

Style.com,

We can’t blame them though. The military boot is the best of both worlds – it is extremely durable while sending a powerful message to passerby. It says that you are strong, that you aren’t scared to take on a challenge. You are willing to get dirty to get what you want. All of the above make this a trend worth following for the coming winter. The great thing about these boots is that you can get them literally anywhere – even your local Salvation Army. Worn down is the key word for finding these boots. If you keep that in mind, you will create a powerful outfit that will make people wonder who you are and what your story is. The military boot mixed with a nice wool coat makes you look simultaneously classic and rugged. You can find these boots anywhere and they don’t need to be designer by any means. From what we’ve seen, we’d highly recommend anything ranging from Kris Van Assche and Alexander McQueen, to H&M.

And Kenzo just for kicks

These Mosschino boots are undeniably amazing!

Go find a pair, and that's an order!

Alec Aldrich

2009-12-11T20:45:00.001+01:00

Jules

www.jules.fr

Last weekend, while taking a day trip to St.Malo, I discovered all sorts of wonderful new stores. One in particular I feel into a deep passionate love with that I didnt even know was possible, espically considering the clothing they sell is only for men.Il s'appelle Jules, a Forever 21 equivalent for the male persuasion that has everything from suits to sweaters, all très bon marché but high on style.It's a men's store, I know, but the shopping atmosphere was so alluring, the music was equally as enticing and the models were ...well, not too shabby.What can I say?. I simply, absolutely , couldn't resist.

Live well, Dress Better

Maddy

2009-12-09T21:28:00.000+01:00

Street Style: Rue d'Orléans

We ran across these two fanshionistos today in le centre ville and couldn't get over their "French lycée meets american teenager" look. The Nike's track shoes add some whimsy to the seriousness of their coats, and skinny jeans make a smooth transition between the two. Plus, in all honesty, we simply can't resist a guy with a Longchamps man-bag. Seriously, Frenchies know how it's done.

Love,

Rebecca, Alec, Madeline and Maddy

2009-12-07T21:57:00.000+01:00

Time Out with Shonni Enelow

This past week we were lucky enough to have
Shonni Enelow, writer for The New York Times Style Magazine, drop by our school. Shonni, the daughter of our beloved English teacher, is currently pursuing a PhD at the University of Pennsylvania after spending her undergraduate years at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. She decided to stop by Rennes during her most recent trip to

France

, a country that she is no stranger to: she spent several months living in

France

during her high school and college years. She found some time out of her busy schedule to catch up with us, share her favorite fashion finds, and talk about how her experience in

France

has undeniably shaped her current style.

She can’t live without: A.P.C., Acne, Dries Van Noten, Vanessa Bruno, Whyred, and 3.1 Phillip Lim. For accessories and party clothes, she prefers vintage.

Self-described as: Jean Seberg meets punk minimalism.

Don’t write her off as a drama dork: “I was an undergraduate at NYU's Tisch School of the Arts, where I majored in Theater. I'm now getting a PhD at Penn in Comparative Literature.”

Modest beginnings: “I always loved dress-up. High school was hard because I was this kind of arty punk in a sea of prep. When I got to Tisch, I felt like I'd arrived. I wore '60s minidresses and go-go boots to class. I was surrounded by artists, and we all sort of inspired each other, aesthetically. I've toned it down a lot since then, but I'm still inspired by the louche provocation of the nouvelle vague.”

All roads lead to Paris: "I spent three months in

France

as a high school freshman, another month as a sophomore. Then, between college and grad school, I went back and lived in Paris. I spend as much time there as possible. I love speaking French; I think that language has an enormous effect on how we think and behave. French dressing tends to be understated, which I love, and less conformist than American fashion (although New York is definitely an exception!). I also tend to associate French fashion with my very chic aunt Patsy, who lives in Paris. She is precise but she always knows when to stop. She's also the one who originally took me to cut my hair off, when I was 14; I've had it boy-short pretty much ever since."

2009-12-02T19:28:00.001+01:00

Designer Aspirations: Part 1

Bonjour tout le monde! For my section, “Designer Aspirations” I’ll be keeping you guys updated with what I’m doing in Rennes to pursue my dream of being a fashion designer. Unlikely...well, yeah, but I'm still holding onto that 1/1,000,000 chance. So, until then, I’m designing out of a cardboard box and sewing with a rusted machine - I’m not giving up. In any case, my most recent endeavor was one of the best yet. I spent a week going around Rennes, harassing all the dressmakers and tailors in town with my presence and somehow I landed an apprenticeship with one of the best wedding dress designers and hat makers in France. Each day for a week I rang in, walked up to her studio, and sewed for 4 hours, all while attempting to make conversation in French (it got pretty ugly). She had me make a wedding veil and organza flowers, and after approving my workmanship, had me work on the dresses. It. Was. Ideal. In order to use her studio footage on the site, The Society agreed not to include her name (famous people can be so touchy!) but, nonetheless, we managed to sneak it in the video. See if you can pick it out. Until next time,

Live well, Dress Better,
Maddy

2009-11-29T15:08:00.000+01:00

The Society Adores You.

courtesy of www.businessoffashion.com

And to prove our devotion, we're providing you with guilty…but fashionable, pleasures. We're giving out a free Fashion Society T-shirt to one of our lucky commentators who leaves their e-mail address in their comment before December 15th . We know what you're thinking, but it's sooo not like that. We wouldn't dare put our name on some baggy, oversized, cotton-like polyblend bag. Oh, no. Whoever is chosen at random will receive an American Apparel t-shirt in the size of their choice with our silkscreened logo. Trust us, you’re gonna look classy. So, if ready to be showered with gifts from your favorite fashion-obsessed American teenagers studying in France, then leave a comment on any post with your e-mail and just wait for our message to tell you that you've won.

Love, Your Editors
Madeline, Alec, Rebecca and Maddy

2009-11-29T15:01:00.001+01:00

VIV’EXPO Fashion Show: 2010 Winter Collection This past weekend, several of us at the Society had the opportunity to help out backstage and model at the Viv’Expo fashion show, featuring 2010 Winter collections of many up-and-coming fashion designers and brands including La Naturalista, Les Mirettes de Cris, Vent d'Ailleurs, and Kiki la Fee. Each fashion designer has a clothing line that features environmentally friendly clothes, made with all natural dyes and fibers. Check out the video for all the backstage and runway action!

Maddy, helping backstage, tries on the Kiki la Fee sac

Rebecca sports the Vent d'Ailleurs vest

Dress from the Les Mirettes de Cris collection

Backstage managers and models try out the "Blue Steel" pose just for kicks

Though the show contained note-worthy designers, here were our favorite designers and brands:

La Naturalista: Super comfy eco friendly shoes in fun and funky colors that will spice up your monotone winter ensemble. Currently sold in most major shoe stores online, including Zappos.

Les Mirettes de Cris: Paris-based designer Christelle Abdelaziz has created a line of extremely cute and flirty dresses that would make a nice addition to any fashionista's wardrobe. We especially love the optional, removable sleeves that make the dress versatile for any weather.

Vent d'Ailleurs: Vent d'Ailleurs specializes in vests made of lamb and sheep skin, imported from Australia and New Zealand. These unbelievably soft and comfortable furs will keep you warm as you fight off the winter blizzards.

All in all, La Société had tons of fun at Viv'Expo, and we've got our eyes peeled for these incredibly talented designers in the future. Stay tuned, and Vive la Mode,Rebecca

2009-11-29T14:59:00.000+01:00

Time Out with Caroline Yost

Age: 16

What she's wearing: Steve Madden boots, Juicy Couture dress, ZARA jean shirt, Pierre Cardin belt, vintage bangles, Baby G watch

Midwest Charm: "My family's from Ohio, so I visit often and go thrift-store shopping. I found this Pierre Cardin belt for $3!

Boarding school chic: Caroline is currently taking a year off from St. Paul's School, a prestigious boarding school in New Hampshire, to study in Rennes.

2009-11-29T14:57:00.001+01:00

On the Street: Lycée Students at St. VincentIn Rennes, you don't have to wander far to find fashionable teens. Par exemple: I have lunch at St. Vincent (a private high school or lycée) every day, and can't help but notice how many well-dressed, fashion forward, and effortlessly cool students there are.

2009-11-28T19:36:00.000+01:00

Acid Wash Jeans - Classy Badassery

Courtesy of Denim Therapy

Jeans and men go hand in hand. Ever since the early days of lumberjacks and coal mining, jeans have been a staple in men's closets. But those days are over. Where does on go from the traditional blue jeans we knew and once loved? Acid-wash jeans are the next step in the development of a man's wardrobe. The random striations in the material are deliberate chaos - a paradox that implies a wild personality. It says 'I CHOOSE not to care that my jeans look like they've been through hell and back; they look cool'. Just be sure to keep the jeans rather skinny, and within a blue, grey, or black range. Anything else might look a little too crazy.

I find that for a casual look, pairing any sort of acid-wash jeans with boat-shoes or high-top sneakers looks really interesting. A basic tee and maybe a hoodie will complete the look.

Courtesy of Oleg P. of Lookbook

If you want to take your look a little farther, pair light grey/black acid-washes with black dress shoes. Throw on a button down shirt, or maybe a basic tee with a cool looking cardigan, and you have a Indie Rocker meet Old Money look.

Courtesy of Alex E. of Lookbook

And an outfit I put together

happy acid trip!

Alec Aldrich

2009-11-25T17:30:00.000+01:00

Rennes, The Birthplace of the Society

Picture courtesy of www.brittanyhouse.info

For goodness sakes, you don’t know where Rennes is? Dommage. Well, it fits right in between the Louvre during fashion week and the Marc Jacobs store as one of the most amazing places on Earth. It's a bit small, true, and hair straightening is out of the question considering the relentless rain, but it's all made up for by the incredible French shopping. After all, who really needs straight hair or dry shoes when you can just pop over to Texto for brand spankin' new leather boots and head down to the local Kaki Crazy Station and pick up a nice slouchy beanie to cover the frizz? So what exactly makes it so great? Well, you know how in Confessions of a Shopaholic the store windows just seduce Becky into the store? It's kind of like that. No JcPenny lighting here, K-mart flooring is a definite no, and obnoxious salespeople are all locked up away (hopefully in prison as they should be). It’s cultured shopping all the way.

So where to start? There's no where better than Crazy Republic, a superstore unique to only two locations in the world. Luckily, one of them is right here in our backyard.

Courtesy of www.archiliste.fr

This season, this three story shopping heaven if focused on rocker chic and western vintage, carrying everything from Diesel to Hells Bells to fufill this ideal. They certianly live up to their motto the "alternative store" with unique, funky pieces, lively music, and glammed-up warehouse decor.

Courtesy of www.archiliste.fr

Their runway show is something like a young Alexander McQueen production.The clothes are wild, the models eccentric and though a bit B rate,it's definately worth checking out.(head over to www.crazyrepublic.fr for a glimpse).
located at 9 rue D'antrain (Rennes, France), it's completely worth a shopping day or two, just be prepared to find yourself frantically scraping together money, wondering how soon you can get back, for days after you leave.

Live well, Dress better.

Maddy Maxey

2009-11-25T16:28:00.000+01:00

A Blast From the Past: The Return of Old Hollywood

No one can deny the elegance and class brought to the golden age of cinema by icons such as Audrey Hepburn and Rita Hayworth. More and more this season we are seeing the glamour and poise of these idols returning to the red carpet.

Evan Rachel Wood channels 1930’s screen goddess Veronica Lake in a satin Art Deco-style gown by Elie Saab, a designer whose evening wear channels femininity, elegance, and romanticism.

Drew Barrymore evokes the romantic age of cinema in a nude embellished wedding gown by Alberta Ferretti, arranged with a netted birdcage veil and flower in her hair to complete the look.

keep the love, vive la mode,

sophie