La Jeune Styliste

The 1900s: The Beautiful Age

2010-04-23T11:33:00.004-05:00

Queen Victoria died in 1901, ending the Victorian Age and bringing in the Edwardian Age with the reign of King Edward VII. Even more advancements were made in transportation with bicycles, automobiles, and trains (oh my!). There was a brief economic downturn in 1907, however most of the world and population still prospered. Peoples dispensible incomes were used on entertainment such as the theater, opera, and "moving pictures."

The mature female silhouette consisted of the pouter pigeon figure that accentuated a small waist with round curves above and below, requiring the S-bend corset. Bodices were boned and bloused out above; sleeves were long, and skirts were worn close to the hip and feature gores that flared into a trumpet shape.

Men's fashion tended toward a blockier shape: three-piece suits and the sack coat with no waistline seams. However, it later gave way to more relaxed styles and men began omitting vests and even jackets. Bloomers or Knickers were adapted by men and women to be worn for cycling.

The Gibson Girl was the "new woman" of the 1900s. She was created by Charles Dana Gibson and featured a popular curved figure. She was independent, active, and beautiful. Her counterpart was the Arrow Collar Man, fashioned as a clean-cut and sporty version of masculinity.

In Paris, the House of Callot Soeurs was specializing in lace and Jean-Phillip Worth took over the House of Worth from his father.

Prelude to the 20th Century

2010-04-21T22:25:00.005-05:00

Fashion is not only dictated by the styles going down the runway and what magazines show us. Fashion is affected by significant issues such as wars and revolution, peacetime and prosperity, civil rights, travel, transportation, communication, literacy and education, sports and recreation, and the entertainment industry. You will see all of these examples work their way through fashion trends since the early 1900s with a profile of each decade with photos of the decades fashion. To know fashion today, you must know yesterdays fashion.

Two big events in the late 1800s were the Civil War from 1861 - 1865 and the beginning of Industrialization which brought better transportation: safer railroads and electric trolleys.

Fashion before 1870 meant that every woman was essentially a dressmaker. Ready-made apparel became widespread through mail-order catalogs and department stores in major urban centers. This transition from homemade to ready-made apparel began in the mid-1800s with corsets and men's shirts.

The wealthy population looked to Europe for aristocratic fashion design; Godey's Lady Book showed the latest styles from Europe to the USA and it was extremely influential. Charles Fredderick Worth, who is considered to be the father of Haute Couture, established the House of Worth in Paris in 1857. He dressed society women in Europe and the USA, along with royalty and those seeking social status. Vogue magazine, highly influential still today, began publication in 1892 which led to photography becoming a significant factor in fashion, allowing women to see themselves and other women.

During the Conservative Victorian Era, clothing was straight-laced and bodies were covered up. The voluminous skirts of the mid-1800s become slimmer bustle silhouettes, women's dress was carefully chosen to show respectability and femininity. Jeanne Paquin, Jacques Doucet, and Charles Worth were three extremely important designers of the time period.

VOGUE point of view

2010-04-20T16:38:00.005-05:00

ATTITUDE & GRATITUDE

It took American women a while, but we've finally taken on board a certain truth:

How we feel about ourselves has more than a little to do with how well we care for ourselves. And that most definitely includes how we dress. Style isn't imposed on us by the establishment. It's a daily affirmation of, well, our joie de vivre. We are each a painted butterfly, with a different pattern on our wings. The concept that adornment can--like capoeira-yoga classes or a devotion to esoteric whole grains--engender well-being is especially good news for anyone older than, say, oh, 29. It's never been more true that you are only as old as you feel. You don't have to resign yourself to a life of tastefully restrained suits the minute you pass 35. You don't have to hide your punk-rock light under a bushel because you're over 50. Just ask Patti Smith.

Does this mean the average grand-mère should reveal her legs in walking shorts? Obviously not. Discernment and bare-knuckled self-critique go a long way. (Why not try a pair of chicpatterned stockings and a leather pencil skirt, Nana?) The message we hope you'll take home from this issue is that any person can translate the runway trends for her own benefit today.

The best fashion--finally, honestly,

for real this time--

is truly ageless.

Cuffed Pants

2009-05-19T10:03:00.004-05:00

The newest, freshest way to wear your semi-slouchy trousers is with casual cuffs and statement shoes. I recently bought a pair of guys jeans to roll the hems, and create that effortless J.Crew look. You can try a more evening style pair of trousers to convert the look into night. This style also allows you to show off an incredible pair of shoes instead of being hidden underneath!

Check out these interpretations and tell me which are your favorites!

The J.Crew Look

The Street Look

The Celebrity Look

Designer Duds for up to 70% off

2009-05-16T09:32:00.005-05:00

I know we all love looking at photos from runway shows, but unfortunately, in reality, especially with our economic downturn, we can't afford those runway prices. That is why I'm introducing you to three of my favorite shopping websites, I think you'll love them too.

www.gilt.com

www.editorscloset.com

www.hautelook.com

Gilt Groupe, Editors Closet, and Hautelook all have weekly sales of high end designers such as, Marc by Marc Jacobs, D&G Dolce & Gabbana, Tibi, Chloe ... the list goes on and on!

However, to have the privilege of shopping these prices you must be reffered by a current member. Lucky you, you have me! Either post your email in a comment on this post, or send me a short email to woah.baby@gmail.com letting me know who would like an invite.

Use the invites well and shop away!!

Spring Styling Tip #6

2009-05-14T19:00:00.002-05:00

Play up your shoulders this spring.

This trend may be spring's most noteworthy fashion story: the strong shoulder! Of course, the strong shoulder is a tricky look to get right, so be sure to try on lots of different styles, don't settle for the shoulder pad look. Find one that is artfully constructed to help you get the drama of the modern bold-shoulder without looking like the ghosts of eighties-past have come to haunt you!

Spring Styling Tip #5

2009-05-12T18:56:00.002-05:00

Pair a chichi tutu skirt with an easy t-shirt.

Voluminous bottoms have been a major fashion fascination for the past few seasons, and I love seeing the different variations of this versatile style. Nicole Richie opted for a full, short skirt in black satin for the Rachel Zoe and Decadestwo charity benefit during Los Angeles Fashion Week. As volume has been a trend for the past couple seasons, the full shape of this one is absolutely perfect! Pair the statement skirt with a basic tee to achieve this perfectly unfussy ensemble.

Spring Styling Tip #4

2009-05-01T14:05:00.003-05:00

Enliven your outerwear with a bold band jacket.

Seen backstage at Lanvin's Fall 09 show, Sara Blomqvist looked ready to lead the charge in a red military-meets-marching-band coat, adorned with gilded buttons, epaulets, and frogging details. I love the idea of swapping out your usual jacket options with this well-decorated alternative. To get this uniform-inspired style, be sure to check out sites like eBay.com, your favorite local vintage boutique, or Army-Navy surplus stores. These shops will be your greatest allies in helping you get an especially authentic accent piece!

Spring Styling Tip #3

2009-04-29T14:39:00.003-05:00

Wear a long tux vest as a blazer alternative.

Lately, I have been noticing a lot of cap-sleeved duster coats and sleeveless jackets on some of the most fashionable trendsetters. Dressed up or dressed down, this abbreviated version of your favorite blazer will help you look tailored and polished well into the warmer months! This garment also plays into the trend of the menswear look.

Spring Styling Tip #2

2009-04-28T17:43:00.004-05:00

Try a ruffled, single-shoulder cocktail frock.

With spring upon us, I highly recommend investing in a similarly shaped one-shouldered dress for an al fresco evening event or a night on the town. Both ruffles and one-shouldered garments are in trend for spring, and these are two trends that can be combined successfully. This style is a completely fresh and modern take on more traditional cocktail attire. Even if you don't find the right dress; opt for a ruffled, single-shoulder top to pair with shorts or jeans!

Spring Styling Tip #1

2009-04-27T14:47:00.004-05:00

I'm baaack!

For the next week I will be bringing you a Spring/Summer styling tip to use and incorporate into your wardrobe for the coming seasons!

Mix a body-con dress with an oversized biker jacket.

While the body-con dress has been a wardrobe staple for some time now, we have usually seen this silhouette paired with a tight-fitting leather jacket or shrunken schoolboy blazer. Play with proportions by wearing a fitted dress and an oversized motorcycle jacket or boxy bomber to achieve an equally masculine-feminine look.

Tax Free Hauls

2008-08-20T00:10:00.006-05:00

Rings from JC Penny - $8 each

Necklace from JC Penny - $5.99

Bracelet from JCPenny - $8.28

Bracelet from JCPenny - $7.99

Nine West Eden's - $20

Earrings from Claire's - Buy two get one free $12.50

Nine West Flats - $20

Gap Dress - $16.99

Maurice's Ruffle Top - $29.99

Walmart Dress - $9.00

Maurice's Crop Pants - $10

The Maurice's top and pants, some of the JC Penny jewelry, and the Walmart dress I bought in South Dakota while visiting my grandma. And the rest I bought at home over tax free weekend. I'm really happy with it all and I was SO excited about my new shoes! I went into Nine West just to waste time not expecting to find or buy anything but I ended up finding so many great pairs of flats on sale for only $29.99 and then if you buy more than 2 pairs of shoes you get 20% so for all three shoes I only paid $80! Hopefully this and my Neiman Marcus hauls with suffice for my back to school shopping!

Katie Holmes self-designed dress

2008-08-14T19:39:00.002-05:00

Katie surprised everyone at the Tropic Thunder red carpet in Los Angeles by wearing a navy dress that she designed herself with the assistance of her stylist Jeanne Yang. Her dress received great reviews, her rep says that there is no line in the works.

I love the style and her new 'do, but the dress looks almost messy and unfinished. I think she looks great, but the leather trimming on the bodice should have been done more cleanly, but I'm a perfectionist and slightly OCD.

So...What do you think? Yay or Nay?

Gilt Dolce & Gabbana Animalier Sale

2008-08-12T21:16:00.005-05:00

I just about died when I saw the email that the Dolce & Gabbana Animalier Handbags sale had begun. Unfortunately, I've been out of town in South Dakota and haven't been able to get on the internet and missed the bags. Here's a preview of my favorite bags, the first being the one I already own!

[images were removed]

And if I work up the courage, I may order this for $278:

[images were removed]

Express F&F Coupon

2008-08-06T15:15:00.004-05:00

Get 20% off at Express August 8-9! To use in-store print this coupon and take it in, to use online put in promo code 4566. If you're feeling friendly, pass it on to a friend!

Click here to see full coupon page

Jewelry

2008-08-01T21:30:00.004-05:00

I have noticed my lack of rings and classic bracelets and necklaces and decided that I need to buy some new accessories! (darn, huh?) Here is what I've picked out from Forever 21...what do we think?

also in cream and red in addition to this teal

What would you take out?

Fierce

2008-07-25T21:32:00.006-05:00

Project Runway Season 4 winner Christian Siriano's collection debuted on Bluefly on this past Wednesday. Currently it consists of 5 pieces, all ranging from $96-$590, including the 20% off that Bluefly is giving right now. Despite the small amount that is for sale, other pictures shown suggest that more is to be released from the designer. It looks promising! Make sure to check out the video to get your long needed dose of fierceness that we miss from Project Runway.

Click here to see his collection

Click here to see a video of Christian on set

Top Steals of the Month

2008-07-23T18:58:00.004-05:00

Save 40% on Joan & David gladiator sandals at Nordstrom; $82.90

Save 70% on a Common Thread charmeuse floral top at Active Endeavors; $72

Save 50% on a Mossimo silver wristlet; $7.49

Save 83% on a Sheer gauze dress at Calypso; $50

Save 67% on a Silk bandeau top at Ann Taylor; $19.99

Save 49% on a Rebecca Minkoff handbag at Milk; $184

Save 50% on Axcess floral linen skirt at Kohl's; $24.50

Save 33% on a Nicole Miller strapless metallic-trim sheath at Nordstrom; $250

Fall 2008 Runway #7

2008-07-12T19:26:00.000-05:00

Oscar De La Renta

Full skirts, sparkly accents and tights...three of my favorite things! This collection embodies most of what I enjoy, I love sparkle and sheen on fabrics and in outfits (done classy and chic, of course). The colors were kept to neutrals like black, gray and navy but accented them with metallics - so keep that in mind when making your fall and winter outfits!

Fall 2008 Runway #6

2008-07-11T21:08:00.000-05:00

Luca Luca Fall 2008

Doing a monochromatic collection, like Bottega Venetta, the silhouettes and textures became Luca Luca's main focus. It gave a lot of insight into what we will be seeing in stores and wearing for the winter. Luca Luca also included gloves in her collection like Bottega Venetta and DVF, but threw in a twist but not having them full gloves and having them only covering the wrists and palms.

Fall 2008 Runway #5

2008-07-10T23:01:00.005-05:00

Diane von Furstenberg Fall 2008

I absolutely adore DVF. If I could live in one designer for the rest of my live, she would be it. As she always does, she used bright colors and bold patterns. She included wide-strapped heels that have been popping up in other stores, so it should be a trend to look out for! She also used gloves as Bottega Venetta did, but she did not use such a short length.

Fall 2008 Runway #4

2008-07-09T21:33:00.002-05:00

Bottega Venetta Fall 2008

As a very monochromatic collection, the silhouettes were the main focus of these pieces. The dresses reminded me of Breakfast at Tiffany's; classic and chic. Bottega Venetta use of gloves added to the Breakfast at Tiffany's feel and seemed like a very chic trend to look forward to for fall!

Fall 2008 Runway #3

2008-07-08T22:56:00.005-05:00

Rachel Roy Fall 2008

I almost get a victorian feel from this collection. I loved the rich colors used and love the feather and broach details. Also, take notice that Rachel Roy has done the same style belt as BCBG did in their collection. I was intrigued by the hat of the last model, perhaps we will see hats making more of a statement than usual?

Fall 2008 Runway #2

2008-07-07T12:41:00.005-05:00

BCBG Fall 2008

The trend of nude heels transfered to clothing for BCBG. They also continue the belted waist trend but I love how they throw it off with a tied, messy belt. Gorgeous silhouettes and beautiful shades of white, ivory and nude.

Fall 2008 Runway #1

2008-07-06T11:38:00.002-05:00

I'll be introducing you to four looks from the Fall 2008 Runway collections from various designers for this week, including my comments and thoughts on them. Our first installment is:

Gucci Fall 2008

I love the use of so many bold patterns at Gucci, and I'm so happy to see that we'll have black tights again for fall/winter! Hopefully we will see that tights continue to be a trend throughout other designers collections.

Neiman Marcus Pre-Sale

2008-07-04T23:17:00.006-05:00

I took advantage of my mom's discount again during the pre-sale at Neiman Marcus and bought some really incredible things and saved an incredible amount of money! Unfortunately, I still spent enough in June to put me on a buy ban for July....

ABS Woven Dress - Saved $121

DVF Cougarette - Saved $161

Citizens for Humanity Jeans - Saved $108

Vince Quilted Leather Cropped Jacket - Saved $408

DVF Zanne - Saved $209

Gilt Groupe

2008-07-02T16:18:00.005-05:00

The Gilt Groupe is quickly becoming a huge sensation. All sales last 36 hours, feature items from one designer, and take place only on www.gilt.com. Sales are first come, first served. Prices are so incredible, many items are up to 70% off. Unfortunately, this website is invite only, but I would love to invite anybody that wants to indulge in their sales.

Send me an email to woah.baby@gmail.com with 'Gilt' as the subject. I will send your invite as promptly as I can.

Trembled Blossom

2008-07-01T15:41:00.008-05:00

A very interesting Prada animation was published onto Youtube titled 'Trembled Blossom', and thought I would share it

Prada - Trembled Blossoms

and a second video, for Prada eyewear

Prada - Trembled Blossoms Episode 2

Enjoy!

Get a Glimpse

2008-04-19T01:29:00.011-05:00

Looking for something really specific to buy for spring or summer? Well I have found the perfect website, just type in what you're looking for in the line provided and it will pop up all things that match what you're looking for from many different stores and brands. Items are displayed with a picture, their brand and name and price! C'est tres facile!

www.glimpse.com

Floral Thong Sandals

2008-04-10T21:38:00.007-05:00

I've noticed a trend circulating that I believe was started by the Tory Burch style flip flops, but who's to know who was first. It is a flower placed on the spot where the straps meet on flip flops. Many brands are featuring them from Poetic License to Chanel.

Costablanca Agnes Suede Floral Thong Sandal

Tory Burch Breely Patent Thong Sandal

Miu Miu Floral Flat Thong Sandal

Chanel CC Flower Thong Sandal

Poetic License Margarita

Guiseppe Zanotti E80114

The Hip Event

2008-03-19T16:40:00.002-05:00

Get your Neinam Marcus exclusive Tory Burch tote

March 21 and 22

and treats from your favorite designers with a purchase of $500 or more in women's contemporary sportwear or dress collections.

Only during The Hip Event. Gift available in store or online.

One per customer, please, while supplies last.

New Shoes

2008-02-29T08:26:00.005-06:00

Just when you thought heels couldn't get any more ridiculous, here comes a shoe that makes you six inches taller without a heel! The Daily Mail reports that Victoria Beckham has paid $3,600 for a pair of these snakeskin Antonio Beradri shoes, while Uma Thurman and Gwyneth Paltrow have bought a patent leather version for $2,200. Can you imagine??

Oscars 2008

2008-02-25T21:42:00.010-06:00

I finally got around to getting together pictures of the Oscars and here are my picks for best and worst dressed!

BEST DRESSED

Heidi Klum

I absolutely love this dress, it was made for a queen! Her hair was impecable; she was probably my favorite from last night.

If you are a size 2 and also loved her one of a kind Dior by John Galliano dress, it can be yours! It's being auctioned at www.mycokerewards.com to benefit the The Heart Truth campaign.

Anne Hathaway

Also shining in red was Anne Hathaway, who looked gorgeous with her pale skin (how I wish I could look that good pale!). The drapping and rose details are done beautifully by Marchesa.

Jennifer Garner

I thought her hair looked gorgeous, the large bang worked well for her. The dress was beautiful, the layers of the skirt works well with the simplicity of the top; great look overall by Oscar de la Renta.

Katherine Heigl

She looks ravishing in this red dress, and her body looks killer! Unfortunately she caked on the bronzer, but still looks incredible in this Escada one-shoulder dress.

Marion Cotillard

Congratulations to her for winning Best Actress! I think she is stunning and in this mermaid-inspired Jean Paul Gaultier dress, that I have to admit has grown on me.

Keri Russell

Her necklace completes this gown, the gown is a beautiful color and fits great on her. The necklace almost tricked me into thinking this was halter but I loved this Nina Ricci dress.

Helen Mirren

She looked so beautiful in this custom-made Georges Chakra gown. The white lace sleeves convert the ordinary strapless red gown into a stunning red carpet look!

Miley Cyrus

This 15 year old (who I have to admit I am a fan of) looked incredible. This Valentino dress was stunning and equally age appropriate. Her hair and accessories completed the overall look.

WORST DRESSED

Daniel Day-Lewis' Wife

This dress is a crime to humanity. Just the top half of the dress contains 3 different decades. Worst dressed of the night.

Tilda Swinton

The love of her and this dress being 'her style' is no excuse. I'm afraid this draped silk dress by Alber Elbaz for Lanvin is horrid, and her overall look was anything but impressive.

Diablo Cody

Many agreed that this Dior by John Galliano dress was not a good look for her. I am a huge fan of leapard print, and actually like this dress, but definitely was not a dress for her or the Oscars.

Nicole Kidman

I'm sad to have to put her here, but the Balenciaga dress and the L'Wren Scott necklace were just too much. Seperately, both are gorgeous but I think this much necklace is only going to look good wearing it naked..

OSCARS 2008 TRENDS

Red - Stunning red dresses were all over the place in all different kinds of shades.

One-Shoulder - The shoulders were being exposed last night in beautiful and creative one-shouldered gowns.

Different Colors - Beautiful emeralds and metallics were also worn, trend for spring as well?

Marc Jacobs

2008-02-21T22:26:00.007-06:00

We are creating collages in my art class and loved this one so much I thought I would share it

Wishlist

2008-02-20T20:28:00.008-06:00

Spring Wishlist:

Delia*s Sophia Dress - $14.99 (on sale)

F21 Leaf Hinge Bangle - $6.80

J. Crew Polka-dot Cardigan - $95

Diane von Furstenberg Cross Back Dress - $298

Miu Miu Deco Patent Platform - $695

Nine West Heech - $89