Tuesday, July 31, 2007

Swinging '60s

Michael Antonioni, who died this week, directed a remarkable piece of fashion history, "Blow Up." The film is a snapshot, no pun intended, of London in the 1960s, and stars a young Vanessa Redgrave. Jane Birkin also makes a brief appearance, which is noteworthy for what she isn't wearing, which is anything. Other films from the era that are fun to watch are "Darling," starring Julie Christie," and "Alfie," which was very daring for its time. For those who love film as much as fashion though, "Blow Up" is a cut above, and definitely worth checking out.

The dynamic duo

"The Two Coreys," the new reality show starring '80s teen icons Corey Feldman and Corey Haim, may be unwatchable, but "The Lost Boys" isn't. It's a perfect snapshot of the decade, from Corey Haim's spiked, bleached 'do to Jason Patric's feathered hair and Jami Gertz's beach-hippie damsel in distress. It's also a addictively awesome movie to boot.

Saturday, July 28, 2007

Nothing compares to her

Like many others, the first time I saw Sinead O'Connor was when her "Nothing Compares 2 U" video came on MTV. I was in seventh grade, and my friends and I couldn't believe how beautiful she was, even with a shaved head. Although the video was from O'Connor's second album, everything about her look and her voice was totally new. It proved that great style is created, not copied.

Friday, July 27, 2007

The Hills are still alive

17 days and counting...

Eyeing the competition

Making Vogue's 10 best dressed list this week was actress Camilla Belle, who's more famous for her performances on the red carpet than onscreen. The real secret to her standout style? Great hair and makeup, she always looks fresh and flawless. And check out her full eyebrows, another reason not to overpluck.

Tuesday, July 24, 2007

Sixties style

"Barefoot in the Park" is remarkable most of all for how gorgeous Jane Fonda and Robert Redford are, and for how much a snapshot of the late '60s the film is. Everything about Fonda's style is spot on, from her teased curls to her turtlenecks. But what we love most of all are her pajamas. She wears a gorgeous full set, which manage to be both sexy and styish yet comfy. Grab a pair for yourself and kick back in fabulous fashion.

Double the pleasure

One isn't enough when it comes to the accessory of the season. While a single headband evokes preppy style reminiscent of summers in Cape Cod, the double headband offers a more romantic look better suited to Jane Austen's heroines. Pair one with a loose topknot or a low ponytail. The style is perfect for summer, forgo the blow dryer and just wash and go. We like this $12 style from Urban Outfitters.

Monday, July 23, 2007

Hitchcock heroines

Alfred Hitchcock's heroines had a singular style that transcends their era. He preferred icy blondes whose perfectly put-together wardrobes belied the drama within. But you don't have to be blonde, betrayed or beleaguered to get the look. Choose polished separates with a timeless elegance to elevate your wardrobe a notch. Seen here: French Connection "Fantasia" tunic, $98; Nanette Lepore "Marvelous" mini, $195; Banana Republic trench, $228; Alexis Hudson snakeskin clutch, $265 at www.intermixonline.com; Anthropologie skinny minnie belt, $18.

Thursday, July 19, 2007

Totally over turbans

We beg everyone, please, to put down the turbans and walk away, quickly. The love of the headwrap started on the Prada runway, peaked with Rachel Roy famously sporting the look and has popped up again in the pages of Elle, as seen here. No one looks good in a turban, really. We all want to be Persian princesses lounging poolside in a cabana wearing a caftan, but i don't recall turbans ever being a part of that fantasy.

Wednesday, July 18, 2007

Hats off

Go green

Whole Foods has jumped on the Anya Hindmarch bandwagon, starting today select stores are selling her ubiquitous "I'm Not a Plastic Bag" tote. If you're desperate to get your hands on one but feeling sheepish about hopping on the trend train, we suggest stowing it away until next year, when the tide has passed. To find out which Whole Foods are selling the bag, check out Anya Hindmarch's site.

Dressed for success

We're always on the lookout for dresses that work both day and night, and this one fits the bill perfectly. This silk satin floral dress has a studded waistband that takes it from sweet to sexy. $148.

Kate the fashion plate

Kate's California style is the definition of laid back. She often wears jeans and sports tousled waves and natural makeup. Some of our favorite looks: 1. Kate's long sweater paired with jeans and a white blouse are casual yet chic. 2. We love the dangly beaded earrings matched with the topknot. 3. It's all about the boots in this one. 4. Kate's best-dressed red carpet moment. The beautiful gown looks as if it could have been reworked from something in her closet. 5. The white vest worn alone is a fresh take on the trend. 6. Check out the fringed bag, total California cool.

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

Eva does Dior

Check out Vogue's best dressed to find this week's 10 best dressed celebrities. Theodora Richards and Elizabeth Jagger look lovely, as does Uma Thurman, but why, oh why, did Eva Green make the cut? Dressed in Dior, she looks like she stumbled right off the runway, which isn't always a good thing. We loved Green in both "The Dreamers" and "Casino Royale," but the Bond girl has a taste for the theatrical when it comes to fashion. Check her out as Morticia at this year's Oscars.