One of the most pronounced uses of colour in this spring’s runways is the use of over-matching: head-to-toe cerulean at Haider Ackermann, yellow and orange at Nanette Lepore. At the same time, this matching of warm and cold tones almost seemed to clash. Blue on turquoise made an appearance at Luca Luca and the aforementioned Haider Ackermann.

Another innovation was simply the variety of rich materials with which these colours were used. Haider Ackermann showed his use of bright colours with rich silks and draped sheers while also incorporating the bold patterns of Spring 2012. Badgley Mischka produced a magnificent collection of brightly coloured garments–reds, oranges, turquoises, blues and pinks.

From Left: Luca Luca Spring/Summer 2012, Haider Ackermann Spring/Summer 2012, Badgley Mischka Spring/Summer 2012, Nanette Lepore Spring/Summer 2012. All images courtesy of Style.Com

Finally, aside from the brilliant pairing of unlikely colours, designers chose to simply bring out entire rainbow’s worth of hues in single collections. Alberta Ferretti showed green, orange, mustard, fuchsia and turquoise in back-to-back exits. Nanette Lepore’s chosen palette was a neon fiesta of flowing garments that also included more subdued coral, purple and blue tones, topped off with brightly coloured makeup. Lepore explained the explosion of colour we’ve seen for spring, stating “[w]e approach color from a new place each season…Everyone in this industry feeds off each other, and the fabric retailers have lately been pushing amazing, sturdy fabrics in these bright colors.”

In the end, the colours used in this spring’s collections compose a veritable laundry list, and the sky is  the limit. Whether it be swooshing skirts of neon or sophisticated rust-toned silk, it must be remembered that colour is nothing new, we just need to see it with brand new eyes, and need to be willing to learn what we’re able to get away with.

Have a question about fashion?

Comment here below, e-mail me, or share it with us on our Twitter (@nowthatslingeri) and Facebook page!

Carla-Jean

carla@nowthatslingerie.com 

Photo Credits and Sources

Luca Luca Spring/Summer 2012
http://www.style.com/slideshows/2011/fashionshows/S2012RTW/LUCALUCA/
Runway/00090m.jpg

Haider Ackermann Spring/Summer 2012:
http://www.style.com/slideshows/2011/fashionshows/S2012RTW/HACKERMAN/
RUNWAY/00180m.jpg

Badgley Miscka Spring/Summer 2012:
http://www.style.com/slideshows/2011/fashionshows/S2012RTW/BMISCHKA/
RUNWAY/00020m.jpg

Nanette Lepore Spring/Summer 2012:
http://www.style.com/slideshows/2011/fashionshows/S2012RTW/NLEPORE
/RUNWAY/00040m.jpg

Nanette Lepore quote, Brittany Adams,
Style.Com review for Nanette Lepore Spring/Summer 2012,
http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/S2012RTW-NLEPORE.

Featured Image:

Nanette Lepore Turquoise top and pink skirt:

Badgley Miscka turquoise dress (cited above)

Luca Luca Blue top and green pants (cited above)

We have seen collaborations like Missoni and Target and Jimmy Choo and H&M, which as been a personal favorite so far. But what about the latest collaboration between Versace and H&M? It’s set to hit stores in November; the collection will include pieces for both men and women as well as a few home accessories.

Donnatella Versace and some of her pieces for H&M

If you’re like us you will probably be one of the first shoppers in line because (let’s be honest) not very many of us have the funds to buy a Versace piece, but with this H&M collaboration we can now own a piece of one of the most important brands in fashion.

The collection will be glamorous and flamboyant – everything Versace stands for. The exclusive collection will be complete with leather, prints, color and exuberance in exclusive materials at fantastic prices.

For this collaboration, Versace has gone back in time to reinvent some classic Versace designs. The women’s collection will be dominated by dresses featuring studded leather, silk and colorful prints and accessories including high heels and costume jewelry.  The men’s collection will focus on sharp tailoring, including the perfect tuxedo, as well as belts and jewelry for men. Aside for the clothing this exclusive collection will also include home accessories like pillows and bedspreads.

In addition to this exclusive fall collection, Versace has also designed a pre-spring collection for H&M, which will be exclusively available in countries with H&M on-line sales from January 19^th.

So when exactly does Versace hit H&M stores? November 19^th! (Dates may vary due to location – check your local H&M stores.)  Book the day off work, cancel all your appointments because we can pretty much guarantee if you’re not in line the morning of November 19^th you probably wont get your hands on anything Versace.

If you get the chance to grab a few pieces from the collection, email me I would love to see what you got!

Erin

erin@nowthatslingerie.com

Photo Credit: http://fabulush.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/VersaceforHM_2_lowres.jpg

Featured image taken from: http://fashionpaparazzis.com/2011/06/21/versace-for-hm-fall-2011/ 

What a beautiful day we had on Saturday! It was so warm, I decided to conduct one of my annual fashion rituals: The Pre-Spring Shopping Spree Window Shop! I’m not sure if anyone else does this, but I highly recommend it, and it’s as simple as it sounds. On the first warm weekend each year I head downtown, just to browse, mainly in stores that I love, but rarely get the opportunity to shop at. This not-quite-shopping spree is so wonderful because it gives the shopper a chance to get a feel for what’s in style that season! Then, when the temperature rises and it’s time to actually make your warm-weather purchases, you can shop confidently knowing exactly what look you’re going for.

One trend that caught my eye as I browsed was lace. Lace skirts, tops, dresses, embellishments all over the place! Personally, I like the look of lace because of its timelessness and versatility. From the dresses and gowns of Marie Antoinette to the flowing tops of free-spirited hippies, lace has been an important element of fashion for centuries. I love that I can wear lace on my off-time, paired with dangly earrings, chunky bracelets and long maxi skirts just as easily as during the workday, paired with trousers and a blazer or cardigan – perfection!

A bold combination of the lace trend in both outer- and underwear. I love this outfit, but don't think I'm quite brave enough to show off my panties like this, no matter how pretty they are!

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The lace trend doesn’t stop with clothing, however. Lace is an important lingerie staple! Due to its popularity and how easily it can be transformed into a variety of looks, you can find beautiful bras, panties and everything in between that will have you feeling lovely in lace.

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Triumph Lingerie is one brand that understands the beauty of lace and of all different body types! The Triumph Eternal Lace Full Figure Bra in white and the Exotic Petites Lace Bra in a lovely earth-toned animal print are proof that all shapes and sizes look fabulous in lace.

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The Susanna Panty by Eva Lingerie below shows a modern, sleek alternative to the uber-feminine ensemble above. This lace embellishment is also very fine, so you can wear this lovely piece totally invisibly!

Susanna Panty by Eva Lingerie

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Samitha Lacy Bustier With Hidden Padded Underwire by Arianne Lingerie

And finally, the Samitha Lacy Bustier with Hidden Padded Underwire by Arianne Lingerie – a great multi-purpose piece for every woman’s wardrobe. With the full support of a bra and the coverage of a top, this camisole can be worn comfortably on its own or under a jacket, although if all goes well we’ll all be out of our coats in no time!

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Xoxo

Rachel

I’ve often been told that I was born in the wrong decade, and I am compelled to agree!  My father raised me on classic rock and the genre has, therefore, remained my favourite since childhood. In my opinion, Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, Fleetwood Mac, The Mamas and the Papas and earlier work by Neil Young and Aerosmith, just to name a few, have produced some of the greatest music to date.  My contemporary music interests often channel a 70s vibe, too! MGMT, for example, has a distinctly Psychadelic-Rock sound that is chillingly evocative of Pink Floyd, and the Indie-Folk movement often carries strong Cat Stevens/Neil Young undertones (think Mumford and Sons and Bon Iver). As much as I love the music, though, 70s fashions have also thoroughly captivated me.

Think about it – flowy, feminine dresses, flared pants that enhance the female form, dreamy flowered tops and funky, eye-catching graphic prints – how fun is that?! Fashion designers have agreed with me for the past few years, but past collections have focused largely on the bohemian look, when in reality, one of the greatest things about fashion in the 70s was its variety! What sets this year’s 70s revival apart from any other are the its multiple interpretations this time around. I’ve got four personal favourites: 70s Glam, Bohemian, Fancy Dress and clothing with an Edgy, 70s-inspired twist.

Here are three gorgeous trends that successfully embody each style. This is so great because it means that everyone can partake in the 70s revival and stay true to their own personal style at the same time!

1. Maxi Dresses

The bright orange number on the far left is a stunning example of the 70s Glam look and a great example for a bold and fearless lady who gets a thrill out of making a statement wherever she goes, as all eyes will undoubtedly be drawn to the bright citrus colour and decadent neckline. My Bohemian selection is a super-pretty and ultra-feminine option for anyone who likes to keep in touch with their girly side. What’s so great about this look is that it can be dressed up for, say for a date, or down, simply by adding a stylish jean jacket. The Fancy black, assymetrical dress is a gorgeous 70s-inspired look that is attention-grabbing, while still appropriate for any formal occasion, and finally, for an Edgy, more casual, funky look, take a walk on the wild side with a maxi in a bold, geometric print like the one on the far right!

2. Platforms

These Glam shoes are made of luxurious, coloured suede, making them an excellent addition to any outfit that needs a pop of colour! The Bohemian wedges shown here are super comfortable, and add a feminine touch to any casual outfit. These Fancy pink shoes show a formal interpretation of the platforms trend, and finally, the Edgy pair on the far right (my personal favourite) are wild and a little crazy, while still extremely fashionable and wearable!

3. Fringes

The breathtaking Glam necklace shown here is classy and timeless, easily integrating itself into many an outfit. The Bohemian beaded bag is an equally versatile piece, as well as an incredibly practical option considering its size and the comfort offered by the long shoulder strap! The Fancy black, fringed skirt is fun and flirty while still maintaining a professional look and the incredibly Edgy black leather jacket at the far right shows loads of attitude and and actually looks great paired with an uber-feminine dress and heels!

As you can see, the choices are endless when it comes to the 70′s trend! Whether you are a diva, a free spirit, or going for a classy or totally edgy look, you can still put a fun, eye-catching spin on your look. And as a final note, this look can be great if you’re shopping on a budget! While high-end designers are indeed tapping into the retro look, true vintage is always available… And personally, I get quite the thrill out of a good bargain.

Peace and Love, my friends!

Xoxo

Rachel

It’s hard for most anyone (other than models, of course) to look classy when wearing an ultra-short dress or skirt.  Thankfully, the rest of us can be satisfied with knee-length dresses and skirts that reveal just a flattering peek of our thighs!  If your outfit is a bit sheer and you don’t want to reveal that much skin, try wearing something else underneath.  Arianne’s Kelly collection has a 19″ half-slip with a lacy hem on the bottom for skirts, and a basic, opaque 35″ full slip for dresses, with adjustable spaghetti straps.

Kelly 19" half-slip with lace hem, Kelly 35" adjustable full slip, both by Arianne and available at Now That's Lingerie.com

Plus, try wearing some invisible underwear to eliminate any panty lines!  Take a look at Elita’s aptly-named Invisible collection.  This way, nothing but your beauty will detract from your sexy outfit!

Elita low-rise Invisible panties (thongboy and thong shown), available at Now That's Lingerie.com

Check out last week’s Style update: Ruffle-Mania!
Stay tuned for your next style update: Boyfriend Blazers (& what to wear under them)!

Questions about fashion and beauty?  Ask me!
e-mail me at lisa@nowthatslingerie.com!

Score this super chic look in a wallet-friendly way.  Check out Arianne’s Iris collection, which offers a layered look complete with miniature ruffles for an eye-catching yet discreet appearance.  You can wear the sensual knee-length dress to your next party or dinner engagement, or pair the top with your favorite pants before you go dancing this weekend.  Both are lined for opacity and offer wider straps to help hide your bra underneath, and the shape of the bodice is extremely flattering, sleek and sophisticated.

Plus, check out Arianne’s elegant, exceptionally versatile Eve top with ruffles along the neckline, or the Nora silk collection with satiny ruffles along the neckline and down the front of the bodice.

Check back next time to find out what’s up with hemlines this season in Skirting the Issue!

Or see my last style blog: Sheer Sophistication.

Questions about fashion and beauty?
e-mail me at lisa@nowthatslingerie.com.

]]> http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/bradoctor/blog/fashion-advice/style-ruffle-mania/2010/03/12/feed 0 http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/bradoctor/blog/fashion-advice/style-sheer-sophistication/2010/03/09 http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/bradoctor/blog/fashion-advice/style-sheer-sophistication/2010/03/09#comments Tue, 09 Mar 2010 19:51:11 +0000 Lisa http://www.nowthatslingerie.com/bradoctor/blog/?p=115 Some of the biggest names in fashion have introduced their new lines in New York and Paris for Spring Fashion Week.  Amongst the eye-catching melee of colors, daring ingenuity and bold cuts, many style themes emerged.  Over the next few weeks, I’ll be covering the fashion styles that will be all the rage this spring.  Plus, I’ll give you some budget-friendly suggestions on how to get your own catwalk-inspired gear.

Whether it’s lightweight, diaphanous fabric, sheer lace prints or appliqués, recent trends are resplendent in their femininity and sensuousness.  Spring’s dreamy dresses with long, flowing skirts give off a majestic appeal while maintaining a sophisticated edge.

Diva sheer camisole by Arianne, available at Now That's Lingerie.com

Sheer tops in ready-to-wear styles lend versatility to this coveted barely-there, glamorous look.  Arianne’s Diva camisole has a stunning lace, corset shape and lined bodice– making it a daring ensemble when paired with your favorite jeans or skirt.  Another versatile top by Arianne is in the feminine Keri collection: it’s lined for opacity all over, except the sleeves are still sheer… plus it has a cross-your-heart neckline and has scalloped edges along the bottom hem!  Both tops feel light and airy, just like this pink dress by Christian Dior (above).  The sheer look is definitely one to love this Spring!

Keri floral cross-over lined top with sheer sleeves, by Arianne. Available at Now That's Lingerie.com.

Stay tuned for my next fashion blog: Ruffle-Mania!

Questions about fashion and beauty?
e-mail me at lisa@nowthatslingerie.com!