Posts Tagged ‘Alexander McQueen’
Trending: Hard Clutches
Sunday, January 16th, 2011
The right handbag has the power to make an outfit or add just the right amount of oomph. Hard clutches can do either. Whether they’re an ensemble’s main attraction or the cherry on top, these tiny gems pack beauty, style and attitude. Large enough for a compact, lipstick and cellphone, hard clutches won’t accommodate bag clutter, but they do leave room for major style power. The options are infinite–be it bedazzled or reptilian, outrageous or classic–and they’re gaining popularity on the street. Though currently a big trend, these accessories can still add an unexpected element to a look. The first thing to remember is don’t think of them as strictly formalwear. They can be paired with jeans as easily as they can go with a gown.
Clockwise from upper left:
1. Samurai gold embroidered skull clutch (Alexander McQueen; $2,295)
2. Studded leather clutch (Matthew Williamson; $718)
3. Geometric beaded clutch (Aldo; $50)
4. Silver lizard-print clutch (Nine West; $30)
5. Rocio clutch with wood and snakeskin detail (farfetch.com; $610)
6. Nicole Miller silver beaded clutch (Lori’s Shoes; 824 W Armitage Avenue; $175)
Images courtesy of Alexander McQueen, Matthew Williamson, Aldo, Nine West, farfetch.com and Lori’s Shoes
By Meghan Turner
Tags: Accessories, Aldo, Alexander McQueen, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Shopping, Clutches, farfetch.com, Handbags, Lori's Shoes, Matthew Williamson, Nine West
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Chicago Blogger Profile: Ryan Beshel of The Bowtie Memoirs
Thursday, June 17th, 2010
Sometimes there’s too many fashion events to attend them all. Fatigue can hit in a big way, and then comfy PJ’s trump the glamorous stilettos, champagne and mingling. That’s why we’re lucky local blogs like Ryan Beshel’s The Bowtie Memoirs exist. The avid event attendee makes an appearance (bowie in tow!) at local soirees and later blogs about his experience for those of us otherwise engaged. From fashion shows to store openings to product launches, Ryan’s, 27, name is a regular on party guest lists and one of the friendliest faces there—not to mention one of the best dressed. If you haven’t been already, I’m pleased to introduce you to Ryan and his fabulous blog, so that when your PJ’s call your name, you won’t miss the show. Welcome to The Bowtie Memoirs!
Besides bowties and blogging, what else interests you?
People interest me. Be it people watching or just meeting new people every day, I find that you can learn so much about yourself from others. I’m also interested in sharing experiences with others. Mentoring the individuals who are finding their way in this industry gives me great joy. After all, I was in that same place not too long ago.
Are you from Chicago?
I’m from Gurnee, about 45 minutes north of Chicago. So, I have always had ties to the city. I went to Warren Township High School, and then I went to Columbia College of Chicago for about a year to study film and video. I ended up switching my major and finally earned a degree in Fashion Marketing and Management at the fantastic Illinois Institute of Art – Chicago.
How did you get into blogging?
It initially started as a recommendation by a few friends. I started attending many events and was finding that many people remembered me from event to event—thank you, bowtie! Eventually, I decided to start the blog so my family, especially my Mom, could see what I was doing here in the city. I also wanted to keep a sort of online journal that documented my life just before graduation and then after. In addition, I wanted to show what I saw of this city’s industry through my point of view.
What is your individual approach?
Well, I think relationships are so important in the industry, so I always like to touch upon who was at the events I attend. I’ll admit, I’m not a “serial blogger.” Sometimes I even miss a week or so. I focus on quality when I write my posts, and I always try to do my best to really describe what the event was like. Every now and then, I throw in a post called “Obsessions of the Bowtie,” where I highlight some of my favorite retailers, designers or products. My biggest focus is trying to expose the emerging, up-and-coming designers and products.
Who are your readers?
Many of my readers are already in the industry. It’s also those individuals who have become my friends and now check to see themselves in a post. Also, there are many students who are working their way into the industry that follow my blog. Then there is my family, who reads to see what I’m up to and check out the path that I am taking in Chicago.
Why do you think blogging is such a viral phenomenon?
Because it’s so instantaneous. When I started blogging, I would go to an event and then have a post up an hour after it ended. I was covering the event and then getting the word out about it before NBC.com, Time Out Chicago, CS, etc. Our world has learned that we no longer have to wait, and we’ve become inpatient because we have everything at our fingertips. It also offers an array of opinions, not just what the local news is telling you. Blogging offers the reader a way to connect with the writer at a more personal level.
What is your professional background?
Well, I am a new graduate, but I have completed an array of experiences. I was an editorial intern at Michigan Avenue magazine and worked directly with Susanna Negovan, the editor-in-chief. I have had the chance to work with some of Chicago’s smartest and most influential women, including the Barbara Glass of InFashion With Barbara Glass. Right after college, I worked freelance with another Chicago star and successful publicist Julie Darling. She taught me the ins and outs of public relations and introduced me to so many great people. Most recently, I interned for another fabulous woman named Sarah Burrows, the Marketing Manager at The 900 Shops.
What do you plan to do in the future professionally?
I’ve recently taken a job at a model and talent agency called Agency Galatea. I work for the Beauty and Fashion Director, Marie P. Anderson. In my new position, I assist in the daily management of models, comps and portfolios, photo shoots, runway shows, and the procurement of print work for talent. I also manage the website updates, online portfolios and social media.
What are your plans for The Bowtie Memoirs?
In the future, I’d like to look to my friends to be guest bloggers and offer yet another point-of-view on “making it” in Chicago. I’d also love to highlight even more innovative designs and designers. Keeping up with blogging with my schedule these days has been a challenge! Once I settle into work, I will have more time to really focus on the future of The Bowtie Memoirs. So, stay tuned!
What are your favorite blogs?
Of course I love Barbara’s blog and Style Admirer! I am also a lover of strong fashion images, and as cliché as it may sound…Yes, I love The Sartorialist! One of my favorite blogs is written by my friends Matt Fox and Enrique Crame III, and it’s called the Fine and Dandy Shop blog. Once you go to this blog, you’ll know why I love it so much! In the true spirit of my love for Chicago, I try to stick to local blogs when I do have the chance to browse. One of my Chicago favorites is The Midwasteland. I also enjoy Second City Style, The Coveted, and Darkroom Demons for some very cool photography.
What is your favorite Chicago boutique?
I have to admit: I’m a huge thrifter. I love to pass a few hours at Unique Thrift Store, Vintage Underground, Knee Deep Vintage, and The Brown Elephant. As for Chicago boutiques, I love The Goorin Bros. Hat Shop and Bonnie and Clyde’s. I also find some great things at Zara on Michigan Avenue. They have the best fits for tall, slim men! DNA2050 in The 900 Shops has the best denim in the city!
Who are your favorite designers, both international and local?
Internationally, I love Alexander McQueen and John Galliano. They both inspired me to get into fashion in the first place. McQueen had such an eclectic eye for menswear. Galliano, to me, is the king of the runway show. I remember watching his F/W 2007 show on YouTube and literally not being able to breathe. Locally, I love and respect the Chicago designers that I have gotten to know personally, such as my friend Christina Fan of C/FAN and Miriam Cecilia Carlson of M.C.C. I also enjoy the menswear by Donaldo Smith of Killian Gui, Jonnie Rettele of Nonnie Threads, and my good friend Maureen Refvem’s stunning pieces.
Do you have a tip to other bloggers looking to create their own online identity?
I would say to always know the intention of your blog. Do you want to make money? Do you want to fill a niche? Do you want to share a personal journey? Knowing the reason you are blogging will guide you in the right direction and act as an outline for your content. I would also say to do your best to stand out. With so many blogs on the internet, it is important to have a brand or logo or blog title that makes you different from every other blog. Finally: just have fun with it, share your passion and follow your dreams even if everyone around you thinks you’re crazy. After all, we all hold the power to be great!
Written and produced by Meghan Turner
Tags: Alexander McQueen, Barbara Glass, Bonnie and Clyde's, C/FAN, Chicago Bloggers, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Christina Fan, Columbia College, DNA2050, Donaldo Smith, Illinois Institute of Art, John Galliano, Jonnie Rettele, Killian Gui, Knee Deep Vintage, M.C.C., Maureen Refvem, Miriam Cecilia Carlson, Nonnie Threads, Ryan Beshel, Susanna Negovan, The 900 Shops, The Bowtie Memoirs, The Brown Elephant, The Goorin Bros. Hat Shop, Unique Thrift Store, Vintage Underground, Zara
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Borrow a Dress Couture Anniversary
Thursday, June 3rd, 2010
A Bryan K. Osburn dress for BADC
The holiday weekend has come and gone, and there were many exciting events that kept us busy. One of the highlights was Borrow a Dress Couture’s (BADC) one-year anniversary party at Bon V in the West Loop. It was a testament to BADC’s belief that the everyday woman can look like a million bucks and spend very little cash doing so. The event featured a cocktail hour, goodie bags, and a fashion show to display the new BADC summer rental selection, including Chicago label Bryan K. Osburn Collection. Bryan’s custom creations are a recent addition to the long list of designer frocks available for rent at BADC, which also includes names like Alexander McQueen, Badgley Mischka, Hervé Léger, Vera Wang, Marc Bouwer, Abaete, and more. You can either rent Bryan’s dresses or choose a style you love that he’ll custom create for you to own. Dress rental prices range anywhere from $25-$175, but if you’re interested in getting your own Bryan K. Osburn dress, prices start at $800.
All in all, BADC rocked the boutique with a stylish celebration commemorating a successful first year of business. And now, we can’t wait to celebrate year two with them as well!
By Danielle Parker
Images courtesy of Borrow a Dress Couture
Tags: Abaete, Alexander McQueen, BADC, Badgley Mischka, Borrow a Dress Couture, Bryan K. Osburn, Chicago Boutiques, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Show, Chicago Shopping, Herve Leger, Marc Bouwer, Vera Wang
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Art and Fashion Collide: SAIC NightWalk
Thursday, May 13th, 2010
Years ago, Karl Lagerfeld and Yves Saint Laurent disagreed about whether fashion is art. Karl said no; Yves said yes. Countless others in the fashion industry have argued this same idea, but a unanimous agreement isn’t a likely outcome. I personally waver between the two notions but tend to side with Yves. When I see work like what was presented at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago’s NightWalk 2010, I can’t help but see a walking art form, an artistic vision.
NightWalk was a show that forced the average fashion lover to expand his or her understanding of fashion design. After all, it can be so much more than what’s worn on the street or to a gala. The designs we saw last Friday night are an exclusive testament to the designer’s imagination and skill, not to the consumer’s taste and pocketbook. By negating conventional clothing norms, the student designers started with a figment of the imagination and brought it to life, as a painter does with a canvas.
Design Rachel Goldberg (BFA 2010). Top image: Designs by Bonnie Alayne (BFA 2011). Both photos by Robert F. Carl
The artistic nature of their work was accentuated by the venue: Griffin Court in the Modern Wing of the Art Institute. Towering projection screens, strategically placed bartenders, and dispersed cocktail tables encased the dramatically long runway, where we saw what felt like hundreds of designs. To start, designer Maria Pinto offered a tribute to the late Eunice W. Johnson, the creator and director of Ebony Fashion Fair, a traveling fashion tour of haute couture and ready-to-wear. We watched a short documentary praising her work, and then a parade of eight designer gowns from the tour whipped down the runway.
The next highlight was Gray Graham, a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund finalist and SAIC alum. As the evening’s Legend of Fashion honoree, he presented 10 looks from his Fall 2010 collection. Gary’s mishmash of earth tones and patterns kept with his ruggedly chic aesthetic that nods to the past but keeps a keen eye on the contemporary. Leather, fur, chiffon, tulle, jersey and organza were woven through a collection of fitted jackets, tapestry skirts, chunky knits, patterned jacquard leggings, and more.
From left to right: Design by NightWalk Scholarship winner Kylee Alexander (BFA 2012), design by NightWalk Scholarship winner Soh Park (BFA 2012), and design by NightWalk Scholarship winner Michael Walls (BFA 2012). Photography by James Prinz
The final show belonged the students. Sophomores, juniors and seniors crafted elaborate and eccentric ensembles that often conjured double takes and gasps. The runway was a theatrical display that ranged from futuristic to regal, whimsical to gothic, distressed to glamorous. Along with their obvious construction skills, the young designers proved their ability to craft the outrageous – squirrel-faced masks, Candyland-like headwear, and stuffed animal trousers – and the breathtaking, like a tangerine velvet gown and purple chiffon ombré dress. There were hints of Alexander McQueen, Maison Martin Margiela, and Halston (a SAIC alum), but it was the clear-cut originality that kept eyes glued to the runway.
The NightWalk 2010 fashion show was an exhibition of talent and creativity. It’s designs like these that demonstrate how fashion is a way of thinking, a way of communicating, a form of self-expression, and an extension of the body. The students of SAIC proved that through fashion, we can find art.
By Meghan Turner
Tags: a CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund, Alexander McQueen, Art Institute Modern Wing, Bonnie Alayne, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Runway Shows, Ebony Fashion Fair, Eunice W. Johnson, Grace Lee, Gray Graham, Halston, Karl Lagerfeld, Kylee Alexander, Luis Antonio Rodriguez, Maison Martin Margiela, Michael Walls, NightWalk 2010, Rachel Goldberg, SAIC, School of the Art Institute of Chicago, Seth Meyerink-Griffin, Soh Park, The Art Institute of Chicago, Yves Saint Laurent
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Style Before Design
Monday, May 10th, 2010
On Earth Day this year, the Chicago’s fashionable swarmed Crimson Lounge for a runway show with a twist. Instead of showcasing individual designers, it focused on the stylists. Hosted by Vyne, a Chicago-based events organization and publication, and the Chicago Fashion Foundation, Style Wars was no predictable walk down the runway but rather a showcase of avant-garde fashion through the minds of Chicago’s top stylists. Each stylist was responsible for creating five high fashion looks. The first personally represented the stylist. The second piece was only black and white. The third communicated a global issue (the winning look from this category will be featured in Vyne’s May issue). The fourth was inspired by Stephen Meisel’s editorial “Make Love Not War” in Italian Vogue, and the final concept was derived from the color crimson in honor of the event sponsor.
As the show began, I was in awe of the stylists’ originality and creativity. Models with big hair and black lips presented what was more like walking art than functional fashion. Two of my favorite looks were from the winner, Christina Demos. Her on-trend mix of black and white, including an American Apparel piano scarf, piano tights, Chanel wedge boots, and twirling striped umbrella, was circus-like and mesmerizing. The other favorite was her global issue composition. She dressed her model in a tutu of Red Eye newspapers, a Wet Seal “will work for shoes” t-shirt, Balmain booties, a Marlboro cigarette necklace, and soup can bangles. In case you didn’t get the homeless reference, a mini shopping cart dangled ridiculously from her hand. Ruben Lopez and CT Hedden were both named a runner-up. Ruben’s formal approach included feather laden wedding gowns, ballroom gloves and opulent millinery. CT’s outfits, like the Alexander McQueen dress and Chanel clogs, were simple but wearable.
Although the event was under organized and unpolished (no appetizers as promised and ill-informed presenters) the stylist’s creations stole the show. Too often Chicago gets overlooked as a worthy player in the fashion industry because it’s play-it-safe, conservative rep. The stylists’ creations proved Midwesterners can go well beyond the stereotypical spoon-fed fashion.
Images courtesy of Vyne
Tags: Alexander McQueen, American Apparel, Chanel, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Fashion Foundation, Chicago Runway Shows, Chicago Stylists, Christina Demos, Crimson Lounge, CT Hedden, Ruben Lopez, STYLE WARS, Vyne magazine, Wet Seal
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Trending: Stripes
Tuesday, April 20th, 2010
Spring 2010 is about making the old new again by taking a timeless look and giving it a fresh spin. As one of the season’s biggest trends, striped garments are one such look. This classic pattern has the surprising ability to take on many personalities: Parisian chic, sporty, nautical, and even bohemian. There are so many striped options out there this season, it seems we can wear the print in any way imaginable.
For a classic approach, go with stripes that are clean and simplistic. There’s the standard black and white stripe, a tried and true staple. The BDG tunic is a perfect basic that can be given a Parisian spin by wearing it with wide-leg trousers and a long, gold chain necklace. Nautical is another trend that’s always big for spring, so head for the high seas in navy and blue stripes with gold accents, like this Markus Lupfer “Allegra” dress.
If you go for a look that’s more edgy, urban and tough, designers have taken a bold approach by stepping alway from the classic stripes. For a look that’s less predictable and structured, wear a graphic stripe with haphazard lines à la Givenchy. For a completely fresh approach, mix a striped tank with contrasting prints, such as paisley short or polka dot cardi. To push the sartorial envelope even further, combine two striped garments of contrasting colors. Finally, if you’re anything like me, spring brings out your inner hippie. I’m following Isabel Marant’s lead and wearing bright, textured stripes on looser fabrics for a look that has globetrotter written all over it.
Here’s some other striped garments that will allow you to wear stripes however you want this season.
Clockwise from upper left:
1. Givenchy striped shoulder pad jacket ($1,275; Givenchy)
2. Juicy Couture striped military cardigan ($248; piperline.com)
3. Isabel Marant “Alamo” silk-chiffon pants ($850; net-a-porter.com)
4. Markus Lupfer striped “Allegra” dress ($350; Intermix or Sarca; 710 N Wabash)
5. Marano clutch by Anya Hindmarch ($161; vivre.com)
6. Paul Smith stripped dress (Paul Smith)
7. Alexander McQueen geometric strip pump ($810; Alexander McQueen)
8. BDG 3/4 sleeve striped tunic ($48; Urban Outfitters)
9. Balenciaga stripped mini dress ($1,641; farfetch.com)
Images courtesy of Givenchy, piperline.com, net-a-porter.com, Intermix, Vivre, Paul Smith, Alexander McQueen, Urban Outfitters, and farfetch.com
Tags: Alexander McQueen, Anya Hindmarch, Balenciaga, farfetch.com, Givenchy, Intermix, Isabel Marant, Juicy Couture, Markus Lupfer, net-a-porter.com, Paul Smith, piperline.com, Sarca, Trends, Urban Outfitters, Vivre
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The Latest Happenings in the Fashion World
Thursday, March 11th, 2010
Vivienne Tam x HP digital clutch
. Urban Outfitters is launching a bridal website, and the collection will later expand into stores. Boho brides-to-be rejoice… [Huffington Post]
. Oak Street’s Chasalla is closing its doors, but its sister location, CRAM for Her, will remain open. [Second City Style]
. The final collection by the late Alexander McQueen was presented on Tuesday during Paris Fashion Week. Sixteen amazing pieces. [T Magazine]
. Christian Siriano for Payless is now available. [Payless]
. Ungaro has relieved Lindsey Lohan of her artistic adviser duties. Thank the heavens. [The Cut]
. Liberty of London for Target hits stores this Sunday. Update your closet and your home. [Target]
. Vivienne Tam’s “Butterfly Lovers” digital clutch (above) is available for order. Pricing starts at $599. [HP]
. Karl Lagerfeld once again proved his unparalleled staging skills. Chanel’s Fall/Winter 2010 collection was presented alongside chunks of iceberg brought in from Scandinavia. [Style.com]
. Madonna will design clothing and underwear lines for Macy’s. What will they be called, you ask? “Material Girl” and “Truth or Dare,” respectively. Madonna is way too creative for this. [BlackBook]
. American Eagle Outfitters is closing its Martin + Osa stores. [WWD]
Image courtesy of HP
Tags: Alexander McQueen, American Eagle, Butterfly Lovers Digital Clutch, Chanel, Chasalla, Christian Siriano for Payless, Fall/Winter 2010, Fashion News, Karl Lagerfeld, Liberty of London for Target, Lindsey Lohan, Macy's, Madonna, Martin + Osa, Paris Fashion Week, Ungaro, Urban Outfitters, Vivienne Tam for HP
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Alexander the Great
Monday, February 15th, 2010
From top to bottom: Alexander McQueen’s S/S 2010 Show and S/S 2009 Show
A palpable gloom was cast over fashion week with the passing of British designer Alexander McQueen early Thursday morning. Death by an apparent suicide, the designer shocked the fashion community and leaves behind vivid memories of one-of-a-kind fashion shows and spectacular talent. His outrageous designs, controversial concepts, and cinematic runway productions cast him into the realm of legendary designer and creative genius, and begs the question: What will become of his label? His work is both admired and relished, and he is truly one of the—if not the most—revered designers of his generation. His talent was remarkable, his vision unmatched, and his mark on the fashion world eternal. In admiration of The McQueen, here’s a look at what made him the legend he is.
From top to bottom: Alexander McQueen’s S/S 2008 Show and S/S 2007 Show
From top to bottom: Alexander McQueen’s S/S 2006 Show and S/S 2005 Show
From top to bottom: Alexander McQueen’s F/W 2004 Show, F/W 2003 Show and S/S 2002 Show
By Meghan Turner
Images courtesy of Alexander McQueen
Tags: Alexander McQueen, Alexander McQueen's Death, Fashion Week
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Long Live McQueen: A Tribute to the Man. The Legend.
Thursday, February 11th, 2010
Chelsey at C/FAN’s Fall 2010 Fashion Preview
Tags: Alexander McQueen, C/FAN, Chicago Designers, Chicago Fashion, Chicago Fashion Events, Chicago Style
Posted in StyleHunter | No Comments »
Rent-a-Dress
Monday, December 14th, 2009
Lusting after designer dresses goes hand-in-hand with watching Hollywood’s many red carpet affairs. With each glamorous award show, we long to wear what the celebs wear, even for only one night. Now there’s a new, less expensive way to make your dress lust a reality.
A new Chicago boutique, Borrow a Dress Couture (BADC), is one of those new retail concepts helping your designer dreams come true for a night—literally. The premise is simple: Go to the store, find a dress, and it’s yours for three days. Rental prices are a fraction of the retail cost, saving you hundreds of dollars on a dress you may only wear once. If you want, keep it a little longer for an additional $10/day. When your dress lease is up, BADC takes care of the dry cleaning for the next borrower.
BADC’s owners, Bree and Teonna, opened the boutique six months ago after borrowing dresses from each other for various events and engagements. Though the boutique is different from standard retail, Bree and Teonna run their store like any other boutique. They place orders directly with designers and change the inventory seasonally, filling the store’s racks with labels like Alexander McQueen, Badgely Mishka, Hervé Léger, Vera Wang, Marc Bouwer, Abaete, and more. BADC customers are renting the eveningwear for any occasion they see fit, including a date, girls’ night, a holiday party, wedding, or black tie gala. “Women have various occasions that they need special dresses for in their life, so it has been great for us,” says Bree.
Renting designer dresses is not only new to Chicago—it’s taking off around the county. With websites like Rent the Runway and Topshop’s Dress Me Up program, this is a trend that could soon become the norm. Rent the Runway is similar to BADC, except the members-only website mails the dress to your home, with a backup size just in case your chosen size isn’t the perfect fit. Topshop’s Dress Me Up allows you to “hire” a dress temporarily for the holidays, and the proceeds benefit two Topshop charities.
So, if you’re designer fund is running a little low this season, renting a dress may be your opportunity to look like a celebrity, even if it’s only for three nights.
Borrow a Dress Couture, 3221 N Sheffield Avenue, shopbadc.com
By Danielle Parker
Tags: Abaete, Alexander McQueen, Badgely Mishka, Borrow a Dress Couture, Chicago Shopping, Herve Leger, Marc Bouwer, Rent the Runway, Topshop Dress Me Up, Vera Wang
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