FashionZest got an opportunity to interview fashion stylist and blogger Vanessa Valiente from V-Style, to hear more about her blog and her view on fashion!

Jenny: Lets start by hearing a little about yourself… who is Vanessa Valiente?
Vanessa: I am a wardrobe stylist and fashion writer with a love of humor.

Jenny: What led you to write about / be involved in the fashion industry?
Vanessa: I have always loved fashion, how cliche, and although I began with a communications degree in college I changed it to Film with an emphasis in Costume Design to reflect that love. From there I jumped into Television and film, then added print styling and personal styling to the roster of what I do.

Jenny: So what is V-Style all about?
Vanessa: V-Style is all about fashion and beauty including news about up & coming lines as well as twists to the long standing brands, product reviews, where to find what a celebrity wore, fashion how to’s, outfit ideas, cheap and fabulous, stylish eco friendly finds and so on. It’s the blog you go to to find out about everything fashion from the mouth of a successful fashion stylist.

Jenny: How did V-Style start?
Vanessa: I started V-Style for my clients as a personal stylist. This was a way for my clients who I don’t always see get advice and my opinions daily. It also gave my services great exposure. From there it became this popular fashion blog that lots of people love and read.

Jenny: What do you hope to achieve with V-Style?
Vanessa: I want people to think of V-Style has an honest blog. This is a conversation between a personal stylist and the reader. I want V-Style to be the blog women turn to for positive, personal and professional fashion advice and news.

Jenny: How would you describe your personal style?
Vanessa: My personal style is incredibly diverse. One day I am chic and sophisticated, another day I am funky casual, but generally my look is very clean (not overly complicated.) I usually wear dresses or leggings. I favor rich colors and wild prints and you will rarely see me in jeans – I find jeans to be uncomfortable. I mix old and new and never buy basics. I am attracted to items I feel I will never see again. I love an untraceable look where you don’t know who made it or where it came from.

Jenny: Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?
Vanessa: Movies are my greatest fashion influence. I don’t have one person I look to or think of when I imagine great fashion, instead I picture outfits. Audrey Hepburn dancing in her cigarette pants in Funny Face, Meg Ryan throughout the movie Addicted To Love, Sarah Jessica Parker in numerous moments throughout the Sex And The City series, Sharon Stone in Casino, Angelina Jolie in Hackers, and so on.

Jenny: Which is your favorite fashion designer at the moment, and why?
Vanessa: I hate to name one designer because I never love all their designs, and once again it is about moments. Every designer has their moments (and their flubs). Put me in any store, ANY store, and I will find something marvelous, but right now I am loving Jonathan Saunders and Jason Wu for their colors, patterns, lines and fun.

Jenny: What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
Vanessa: It’s hard for me to think of what I dislike because I am always focusing on what I am drawn to versus what I am not, but I would have to say I dislike the sky high heel trend that has been going on for some time. It’s not comfortable so I want everyone to get over it. I dress fashionably because of the way to makes me feel. If I feel uncomfortable or restricted from the pace I want to walk, I do not feel stylish or sexy. I am way too busy to waddle around on 4 inch heels and deal with blisters.

Jenny: What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?
Vanessa: Balance your look. If you have volume on the bottom, put on a slim fitting top and vice versa. If you are wearing statement earrings, best bet is to skip the necklace, etc.

Jenny: And finally… as the creator of V-Style, where do you see the site in 5 years time?
Vanessa: In 5 years I see V-Style as being more popular than the rag blogs. I see negativity and celebrity gossip obsession giving way to an appreciation of real fashion advice and news with a positive edge.

Have you always had a thing for old fashion glamour where you wish you could go back in time and dress like a 1940’s silver screen vixen?

The delightful Boutique Hotel 40 Winks, last year launched a simmering orgy of fun, fashion and frivolity which is aimed at girls who wants to add some old fashioned glamour into their lives, called TART. This is the ultimate afternoon of naughty self indulgence, seductive style and decadent pampering and it has quickly established itself as one of London’s must do events. These events are held monthly with different happenings and special guests.

TART, which is hosted by the dandezque David Carter, pin-up queen Fleur de Guerre and the vintage guru Naomi Thompson, also promotes young design talents at 40 Winks, by letting fashion and accessory designers showcase their work. Over the next few months designers like Uma Turan, Miss Magou, Jessica de Lotz, Laura Strand, Rachael Hannah, Tallulah Love, SVE, Nahoko Kojima and Ornella Iannuzzi will be showcasing their work at 40 Winks.

The next TART event will be held at 40 Winks tomorrow, 13th of February, with fashion designer Michelle Taylor from Tallulah Love. FashionZest recommends that you don’t miss this one out!

For more information about TART at 40 Winks, please checkout their website: http://www.40winks.org

Photographer: Chun P. Lin

This week, FashionZest got an opportunity to interview fashion blogger Elana Pruitt from Good Girl Gone Shopping, to hear more about her and her blog and her view on fashion!

Jenny: Lets start by hearing a little about yourself… who is Elana Pruitt?
Elana: Wow…how can I sum up who I am without writing a book? I suppose you could say, in a nutshell, that I am a dreamer who is living her dreams as a writer, editor, and personal shopper. I am someone who believes in hard work and paying your dues. A 29 year-old with youthful energy and old, contemplative soul, I believe that inspiration comes from within.

Jenny: What led you to write about / be involved in the fashion industry?
Elana: As a kid, I always loved playing dress up. Mixing and matching colors, prints, and accessories was so exciting! So that passion always stayed with me. In junior high and high school, sometimes I was criticized for looking too ecclectic and “weird.” The dress-up girl in me was always there, in which I never have truly believed in fashion rules. (Of course, some don’ts are truly don’ts!). When I was in college, I worked at Nordstrom, which was a great experience. I became familiar with tons of amazing designer lines and gained a big clientele. At that time, I also interned at Hollywood Scriptwriter magazine where I learned the ins and outs of journalism and entertainment. To make a long story short, I gained a truly inspirational contact who invited me to come onto her magazine as a fashion columnist – Kaylene Peoples of Agenda Magazine played a huge role in my involvement with the fashion industry. Through her and the mag, I attended numerous fashion shows and events. My blog and business, Good Girl Gone Shopping, developed soon thereafter – just over a year ago. And now I am a contributor and editor for several other blogs and websites, and publications. It all came full circle.

Jenny: So what is Good Girl Gone Shopping all about?
Elana: Good Girl Gone Shopping is all about finding your true style and fashionable, affordable finds. I am a one-woman business, and I cater to the needs of all individuals needing assistance in uncovering the best fashion pieces for their personality, style, size, shape, and lifestyle.

Jenny: How did Good Girl Gone Shopping start?
Elana: My blog started first, which was originally titled, “Diary of a Personal Shopper.” I then created my business, called Good Girl Gone Shopping. I decided to rename my site after my business to help promote my brand. It’s also catchier! Trends come and go, but my business and blog are dedicated to providing individuals with options, tips, and good finds. I pride myself as the ‘Good Girl’ because I help others unveil there true personality through fashion. And I do so without allowing them to spend their entire life savings on a new wardrobe.

Jenny: What do you hope to achieve with Good Girl Gone Shopping?
Elana: I hope to grow my business into a full-fledged corporation one day, where I have personal shopping appointment setters, package deliverers, large, fancy fitting rooms, an in-house, accessible complimentary coffee bar, and a private car for dropping off and picking up clients. The Rachel Zoe brand is a huge influence, as she built her business based on her passion with a dedicated team (including her hubby!)

I also hope to work with diverse fashion stylists and image consultants, one day. I would love to combine talents and produce amazing, collaborative results.

Jenny: How would you describe your personal style?
Elana: I enjoy chic style with an edge. I love all black with a pink heel as well as a men’s blazer combined with a pair of jeans and booties. I never tried to impact the lives of other women, but I began giving out tips and advice to friends and colleagues who needed help with uncovering their true personality through fashion. My own sense of style, I believe, was a big, contributing factor as to why I developed Good Girl Gone Shopping; I realized the need for my services!

Jenny: Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?
Elana: My mother’s 60s vibe with a mix of ethnic “Chico”-ish style continues to make me smile, influencing me to always stay true to who I am. Playing with colors, fabrics, and trends have always been in her vocabulary – mine as well. All of the scarves I wear in my hair today are from her big box in the closet, which have become one of my signature looks.

I also adore Gwen Stefani’s innate, fierce style. From the No Doubt “Beacon Street Collection” to her solo albums and L.A.M.B. collection, she knows no boundaries and consistently redefines a trend and what it means to be a stylish woman.

Jenny: Which is your favorite fashion designer at the moment, and why?
Elana: Betsey Johnson will always rock my world.

Jenny: What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
Elana: I am still unsure as to how I feel about over-the-knee boots. There is such an obvious “Look at me, I’m making a sext fashion statement” that is a little unnatural. On the other hand, I love thigh, high flat boots and ankle boots. Men’s blazers for women and the Sgt. Pepper-inspired navy and olive-colored jackets are exciting trends that look to last for some time.

Jenny: What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?
Elana: Never follow trends. Rather, make them your own by putting your own twist to it based on your personality.

Jenny: And finally… as the creator of Good Girl Gone Shopping, where do you see the site in 5 years time?
Elana: I plan to continue writing about fashion, talking about fashion, and providing my personal shopping and wardrobe consulting skills to the public. I would like to travel more, and gain a bigger national clientele while continuing to work with my local clientele and appearing in the media regarding my business (I am regularly featured as a fashion consultant on “Southern California Life,” a local cable television show). I am determined to make Good Girl Gone shopping a household name.

The InStyle’s afterparty at the 2010 Golden Globe was filled with trendy stars in different creations. A mix of short cute dresses and longer gowns as well as flattering colors gave this purple carpet an evening of inspiration! Kate Bosworth went for the cute and girly look while Ashley Olsen was wearing a bright blue colored puffy dress with interesting details. Take a look at the stars choices for the evening.

Kate Bosworth kept it simple and sweet in a white dress.

Jessica Stroup in a colorful green dress with cute black ankle boots.

Vanessa Hudgens looked confident in this edgy dress.

Elizabeth Banks in a pink outfit.

Ashley Olsen got the attention of the night in this blue and bubbly dress with matching shoes.

Lily Collins wrapped in a brown dress.

Amy Smart looked chic in this black laces dress.

Kate Walsh always manage to look great in red.

Malin Akerman in an interesting fringe dress.

Image source: fabsugar.com

FashionZest got an opportunity to interview Karine, who is the creator of the inspirational fashion blog The Fashion Economist. We learned more about her blog and her thoughts of fashion.

Jenny: Lets start by hearing a little about yourself… who is Karine?
Karine: I’m a girl in my twenties who’s based in Oslo and have a passion for for many things in life: Fashion, photo, web communication, design, home decor, cooking, travelling, yoga. A glimpse of that is expressed through my blog.

Jenny: What led you to write about / be involved in the fashion industry?
Karine: For as long as I can remember I have been drawn to beautiful clothes and glossy magazines. When I was a student, I got a part time job at the head office of a clothing retailer, and learned a lot about clothing production as well as the commercial part of it. I think that was wen I really got my eyes up for the world of fashion. I started to open up for inspiration and developing a more personal style.

Jenny: So what is The Fashion Economist all about?
Karine: The Fashion Economist is a blog aimed at demonstrating that style doesn’t nesessarily have to break the bank. I share my personal styling tips, post bargain alerts, like tips to sample sales, promotion codes and other good fashion and beauty buys. This mixed with outfit pictures, inpirational star – or street style pics, as well as shopping advice from travels and experiences pretty much make the framework of my blog.

Jenny: How did The Fashion Economist start?
Karine: Well, I’m an economist by profession, and probably more than averagly concerned with handling money wisely. On the other side, I don’t want to compromise my style. As I’m a rumoured bargain hunter, friends often came to me for smart shopping advice. I started to think of a way to share this with a bigger audience, and that’s how I came up with The Fashion Ecnonomist: a guide to save money without sacrifising style.

Jenny: What do you hope to achieve with The Fashion Economist?
Karine: Besides from sharing bargain tips, I hope to give some inspiration and share a part of my world. And of course, I love to get feedback and get to know likeminded in the blogsphere. Blogging is a great way of interacting with the world within your field of interest.

Jenny: How would you describe your personal style?
Karine: My style is playful, feminine and mood driven. I try to put an effort in every outfit and make my own styling rules:)

Jenny: Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?
Karine: I cant’ name one specific source of influence, but I pick up bits here and there. I get inspired by people on the street, photo spreads in magazines, fashion bloggers (of course), as well as friends and my sister. My favourite city is Paris, and that’s indeed an inspirational haven!

Jenny: Which is your favorite fashion designer at the moment, and why?
Karine: I loved Christopher Bailey’s Burberry Prosrum s/s 2010 show at London Fashion Week. those tulle drapings and glamourous shoulders… loved it all! Alexander Wang is on everyone’s lips these days, but I can see why. I love his bags and simple, but sexy dresses.

Jenny: What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
Karine: I’ve become a great fan of mixing sloppy with glamour – like snake printed leggings paired with an oversized printed t-shirt, a tailor cut blazer of trophy jacket and platform pumps. I also adore the revised Chanel look: A ladylike cardigan and a classic chanel bag combined with distressed jeans and loads of jewelry!
I’m not that comfortable with harem trousers, though. I shall never say never, but you will hardly see me in those hang loose pants and high heels!

Jenny: What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?
Karine: I would say don’t be afraid to combine your wardrobe in unusual ways. Dress down your evening dress for daytime wear, and use accessories to bring an old piece of clothing back into style. And above all: When in doubt, dress up! The worst that will happen? You will be the party’s best dressed:)

Jenny: And finally… as the creator of The Fashion Economist, where do you see the site in 5 years time?
Karine: Oh… 5 years time! I haven’t really mapped out a five year blog plan. Hopefully, I will have the chance to spend more time on my blog to improve its quality i nthe future. And if people still like my work, I’ll sure keep going:)

Angelina Jolie has been the face of thee fashion brand St John in their advertising campaigns. But not St John have decided not to continue their work with Angelina Jolie. Reason being that Angelina is looking too good and it too famous which takes the attention off the clothes. St John’s CEO said to WWD that they had to change Angelina cause she’s “overshadowing” the brand. He also said that “We wanted to make a clean break from actresses and steer away from blondes and cleanse the palette.”

Angelina will be replaced by the redheaded british model Karen Elson. The new campaign have been shot by Greg Kadel. McMahon says about the new campaign that “We needed a modern point of view of St. John. We have evolved”.

Do you think St John did the right choice to exchange Angelina Jolie with Karen Elson?

Image source: myfashionlife.com, chalcy.com

H&M is finally out with some inspirational pieces for spring that lightens up the dark winter time. The H&M Garden Collection  for Spring 2010 is modeled by Natasha Poly. What makes this collection really stand out is that all the pieces from the collection are designed using organic materials such as textile waste and recycled PET bottles. Hopefully this collection will not only inspire people’s fashion sense but also inspire people to recycle more.

This collection really gives a feminine and fresh summary feeling with flowery light fabrics and sweet summer dresses. Definitely an inspiration for the coming season! Have a look and judge for yourselves.

Image source: clutchmagonline.com, fabsugar.com

A new year has come and soon we are heading for spring, so why not check out what will be showing up soon in our Topshop stores. The Topshop spring 2010 collection has a great variety of styles, from flowery and romantic, sweet and french, to futuristic and tough. The collections are called Parisienne, Meadow, Downtown and Saloon. If feels like they manage to catch the trends from the catwalk this year and translate it into wearable pieces. Have a look, and judge for yourselves!

Parisienne
It gives a French look with the stripes and polka dots. It has washed denim ans playful and fun jackets. A sweet collection which gives a feeling of spring.

Meadow
Flowered dresses, nude colored blouses, studded waist coats and leather accessories. A sweet collection with a touch of boho look.

Downtown
This collection includes darker colors  and sporty outfits with a touch of tough leather jackets and boots. Great pieces for an everyday outfit.

Saloon
Saloon inspired pieces, ripped jeans, fringe dresses and cozy cardigans. A great collection for the relaxed weekend as well as a night out on the town.

Image source: nitrolicious.com

FashionZest got a chance to interview Michelle Taylor from Tallulah Love. Michelle, who is Managing and Creative Director of Tallulah Love Luxury Lingerie, has ten years of experience in the lingerie industry and she is the former design director or Playboy Intimates. Tallulah Love is due to launch the fabulous and newly formed brand at the Paris lingerie show, Salon de International de la lingerie, this month. The lingerie line is elegant and contemporary with a touch of vintage. FashionZest were very excited to hear more about this new brand and the creator.

Jenny: How did you get into fashion design?
Michelle: I have always loved art, drawing and design. I went to Art college after school and realised that I enjoyed graphics and fashion…. I then did a degree in Fashion Marketing at the University of Northumbria at Newcastle (uk). This gave me a great grounding for my future career and enabled me to see all sides of the fashion industry. Helping me realise that the design area was the one where I had the most passion and skill.

Jenny: Why did you choose to design lingerie?
Michelle: Initially just after university a friend of mine was working for one of the largest suppliers to Marks and Spencer…a junior position came up and I went for interview. I love working with laces/fine fabrics and find it a challenge to keep creating new exciting design on something which is so small scale. Trends are still important in lingerie yet not so directly linked as outerwear. I love expressing my creative self through fabrics and colour.

Jenny: How would you describe the style of your fashion design?
Michelle: My style is very detail orientated and draws on historical/vintage references. I like to combine unusual prints/colours/fabrics to create something different though over the last few years have realised that making something commercial and marketable is obviously also very important.

Jenny: What inspires your design?
Michelle: I get so excited by colour and can design a lingerie set having been inspired by the colours on a decaying door/building on holiday in Morocco or from amazing interiors in a fabulous new hotel. People on the street inspire me…especially around London city when I go down adn visit. I love seeing how people put things together in their own way.

Jenny: How do you want women to feel when they are wearing Tallulah Love labeled clothing?
Michelle: When women wear Tallulah Love Lingerie and want them to feel elegant, sexy and sophisticated. I think Tallulah Love Luxury Lingerie can create a quiet confidence.

Jenny: What do you hope to achieve with the label?
Michelle: Short-term I hope that the brand will be well received in Paris and throughout Europe at the Salon International Lingerie. We will be looking for select stockists in the US aswell. Eventually we would like to open our own Tallulah Love boutiques that will sell not only lingerie but at some point swim-wear, interiors and lounge wear.

Jenny: What advice do you have for a young woman who wants to become a fashion designer?
Michelle: My advice would be to work hard, be very enthusiastic and always believe in your abilities.
Never give up and always be open to take on work experience. Many designers are lloking for enthusiastic young people to help them in the early stages and this can be a great experience for a young designer. Be proactive..email/call local design offices and offer your services…always be yourself, friendly and reliable.

Jenny: If you could choose to work with/for any fashion designer in the world, who would it be and why?
Michelle: I would love to work with Chantal Thomas as her lingerie is absolutely stunning. I love her whole brand and the way she manages to evolve with the decades while keeping things looking exciting, fresh and modern. I would love one day to have a collaboration!

Jenny: What are you working on at the moment?
Michelle: Im working on my 2010/2011 winter collection. They are all made of silk and printed with my own prints that I have designed exclusively for the collection. I am working with a fabulous factory and am waiting for my photo shoot samples to come in later this week. Im also organising the photo-shoot and sourcing models for it!! My photographer that I use is sooo talented. She’s one of the best in UK. Her name is Lara Jade…we have a similar idea about styling and colour and light and so I am soo excited to work with her again.

Jenny: What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?
Michelle: As fashion tips go I would always say..wear what is great for your body shape not just what is “in fashion” then use accessories and nice lingerie to finish your look.
Never be afraid to experiment with colour!

Jenny: What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
Michelle: I love the whole vintage look that Dior worked on the Runways earlier this year…the large petticoat skirts and little pale pink/peach basques etc. Love anything romantic/feminine. Also loving all the very fitted tailoring though too!!
Don’t like the whole ’80’s vibe, I know its a strong trend however it doesn’t work for me!!!;-)

Jenny: Do you sell your pieces? If so, where can people buy your stuff?
Michelle: We will begin selling our range from mid January this year through our Website….www.tallulahlove.com. The range will also be available from luxury boutiques and select department stores from February 2010 too.“Show some Love…show some Tallulah Love!!.xx

Steve Madden (left) Balenciaga (right)

It’s not the first time Steve Madden is getting into trouble. Before it was Alexander McQueen who sued Steve Madden for copying his black Faithful bootie, now it’s Balenciaga’s turn. Balenciaga filed a lawsuit against Steve Madden on Tuesday for copying their multicolor heels called Lego, from the Fall 2007 collection. The Balenciaga heels were sold for $4175 while the copied version by Steve Madden, which came out in 2008, was sold for only $99.95.

Some people are completely against this copying of designer pieces, while others thinks it’s a great opportunity to get a great bargain on the copied version. Would you rather spend the extra money on the real deal, or spend less on a copied pair of shoes?

Image source: nymag.com

FashionZest got a chance to interview Mrs. M, blogger and creator of the inspirational fashion blog SlackerChic. She told us more about her blog, the future and of course.. fashion!

Jenny: Lets start by hearing a little about yourself… who is Mrs M.?
Mrs. M: Mrs. M is the creator of Slacker Chic, a fashion devotee and someone who usually doesn’t talk about themselves in third person, I swear!

Jenny: What led you to write about / be involved in the fashion industry?
Mrs. M: I have always had such an extreme appreciation for the art of fashion-especially the women that pushed the limits and made a statement with their clothes.  Chicks like Kat Bjelland, Theo Kogan, and Wendy O. Williams really opened the doors and the minds of girls like me.  Just by looking at them you could tell they were strong, independent and totally original. Fashion wasn’t about Chanel or Prada.  It was about the freedom of expression, and that’s what did and continues to stimulate my love affair with style.

Jenny: So what is Slacker Chic all about?
Mrs. M: I think it’s about a different type of woman.  Whenever people ask me what Slacker Chic is I tell them to picture the girl in the Balenciaga dress that’s bumming smokes from the valet outside an awards show.  She’s Mary-Louise Parker, Zoe Kravitz, Cat Power, Shannyn Sossamon-Sexy and stylish without trying.   I think that type of woman is underrepresented because she doesn’t fit in a certain category.  So I made one!

Jenny: How did Slacker Chic start?
Mrs. M: Well, originally I had wanted to work for a fashion magazine, perhaps intern somewhere, work my way up the ladder.  However my husband is in the military and moving away from our home (in Upstate New York) was pretty much out of the question.  I had interviewed for the local paper in my area, but without even reading my work (on the corporate infrastructure of fashion’s biggest labels) the editor deemed it “fashion fluff” and condescendingly dismissed me.  At first I felt defeated and then I thought, screw this guy.  I’m not going to have some stranger convince me I was inadequate without merit.  So I began the site because I realized I didn’t need someone’s permission to start my life.  Looking back almost two years later I’m really proud of the fact that I took the initiate. I’ve learned so much not because I had to, but because I wanted to.  From the fashion to the writing to all the stuff I’ve learned from my fellow bloggers, starting the site was one of the best decisions I’ve made.  The old saying “Where there’s a will there’s a way” is so cliché but so true!  The way might be long, but if you’ve got the will it’s worth it.

Jenny: What do you hope to achieve with Slacker Chic?
Mrs. M: Honestly I hope to entertain my readers.  I’ve already achieved more than I had hoped for-getting to attend Fashion Week, interviewing cool people and honing my skills as a writer.  Everything from here on out is just the cherry on top.

Jenny: How would you describe your personal style?
Mrs. M: Ha, definitely Slacker Chic!  I coined the phrase about ten years ago because I didn’t like any of the other terms.  Boho, punk, preppy, I was none of those things.  I remember in 12th grade I came to school-the little punk rock lover that I was-wearing a Wu Tang Clan shirt.  This guy came up to me and was like “What are you?”  He asked if I had stopped being a punk and started being hip hop.  What a stupid question!  There are no boundaries to style.  Just the stuff that speaks to you and the stuff that doesn’t.  Same with music, movies, or any other form of art.

Jenny: Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?
Mrs. M: Courtney Love was huge.  Lately I’ve been super inspired by the 70’s though.  Exploitation films, Pam Grier, the clone look of the 70’s.  Like Freddie Mercury’s “Mr. Bad Guy” cover.  If I could sew I’d create a whole line based on that simple cover alone!

Jenny: Which is your favorite fashion designer at the moment, and why?
Mrs. M: I am such a worshipper of Alexander McQueen.  I think he will forever and all time be my absolute favorite.  However I’m also really into this smaller label 1Aeon at the moment.  They make the most delicious graphic prints that are great with a pair of jeans.

Jenny: What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
Mrs. M: I hate shirts as dresses!  Unless you are a tiny peanut like Mary-Kate Olsen or totally certifiable you just can’t get away with not wearing pants in public.  And wearing sheer tights underneath does not count as pants.  The trend I do love though is sky high shoes.  The more like stilts, the better.  Right now is such an exciting time for fashion though.  One good thing that came out of the recession was the revival of so many different styles, people recycling their closets.  At the moment it seems like anything goes, and that’s really amazing.

Jenny: What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?
Mrs. M: Definitely to just be yourself.   I think a lot of times we get so wrapped up in the things that we like about each other that we forget to be ourselves.

Jenny: And finally… as the creator of Slacker Chic, where do you see the site in 5 years time?
Mrs. M: Gosh, hopefully with an even bigger kick ass cult following!  I try and make the site someplace for the fashion misfits.  You don’t have to look or act or be a certain way.  Just come as you are, be who you will and you’ll always be welcome.

The color of 2010 has now been decided and Pantone, which tracks colors in the fashion and interior industry, chose turquoise. The reason of the choice was that the color is soothing and reminds people of being on vacation, which they thought we all need after a long and tough year of 2009.

It seems that we are going to see a lot of turquoise as well as pastels next spring according to the trends. I definitely think that an uplifting color such as turquoise is needed after a winter of darker colors. It brings out the feeling of summer and freshness, and goes well with a nice sun tan and some cool accessories. I cannot wait to start experimenting with this new trend!

Image source: onceptsinbloom.blogspot.com

Last night Lady Gaga continued to write “fashion” history when she met the Queen of England in another of her outrageous outfits. Gaga wore a red latex dress, inspired by Queen Elizabeth I, with puffy sleeves and she matched the outfit with red glitter around her eye and red lips. The singer performed “Speechless” while hanging ten feet in the air.

“I wanted to do the suicide scene but was told it wouldn’t be appropriate. I’ve also had to tone things down generally “But it doesn’t matter because I’m a massive fan of the Queen — I was so excited and have even been practising my curtsy.” she said according to NY Magazine.

I wonder what the Queen thought of her look. Well, Lady Gaga does everything but look boring, even when she tries to tone things down in royal style. Go Gaga!

Image source: spin.com

This week FashionZest interviewed Melissa, who is the creator of the inspirational fashion blog FashionTrendGuide, to hear more about her blog and her view of fashion.

Jenny: Lets start by hearing a little about yourself… who is Melissa?
Melissa: I would describe myself as a fashion-obsessed blogger from southern California with a penchant for cheap chic shopping, a background in trend forecasting and trendspotting, and a love for staying active.

Jenny: What led you to write about / be involved in the fashion industry?
Melissa: When I graduated from UCLA in my early twenties, I had a degree in Psychology but no idea what I really wanted to do as a career. After working in jobs that I wasn’t passionate about, I decided it was time for some introspection, and that led me to return to school for a degree in Fashion Merchandising. I’ve had a passion for shopping and style since the age of three, so it made perfect sense to study fashion so I could do what I love. I’m most interested in trend forecasting, which involves all of the things I enjoy – traveling, photography, shopping, reporting on trends, and determining what will be the next big thing.

Jenny: So what is Fashion Trend Guide all about?
Melissa: Well my blog is an expression of all things fashion-related that inspire me. So on my blog, I might include: store window photos, my own personal style, trends on the rise, book reviews, shopping reports, mini DIY projects, museum exhibitions, events and sales, or collages of things I want. I think it’s important to have a balance of interesting images and well-written content in order to attract and retain readers.

Jenny: How did Fashion Trend Guide start?
Melissa: I always wanted to have my own fashion website, but I didn’t have any web design skills. One day in early 2007, I used Blogger to create Fashion Trend Guide when I had some extra time on my hands. At the time, I was inspired by many of the street style blogs that I had recently discovered, and I originally intended to post Santa Barbara street style, but my blog’s direction changed away from that once I began updating it.

Jenny: What do you hope to achieve with Fashion Trend Guide?
Melissa: My aim is to inspire, educate, and hopefully, to entertain my readers. It’s also a great avenue for interacting with like-minded people and for sharing my passion.

Jenny: How would you describe your personal style?
Melissa: I don’t have a signature style, but I use several factors to guide me when I’m getting dressed. For instance, the weather, my mood, my activities, and recent inspirations help me decide what to wear. This season, I’m gravitating toward layered bangles, chunky wedge boots, cross body bags, prom skirts, faux leather, animal prints, Breton stripes, and body con dresses.

Jenny: Who or what has been your greatest fashion influence?
Melissa: I draw a lot of inspiration from the many fashion blogs and magazines that I read. I tend to gravitate towards Scandinavian street style blogs and British magazines when seeking ideas for new looks. I also browse dozens of websites such as: style-bazaar.com, lookbook.nu, refinery29.com, whowhatwear.com, topshop.com, missselfridge.com, and asos.com.

Jenny: Which is your favorite fashion designer at the moment, and why?
Melissa: I don’t have one favorite designer, however, three of my recent favorites include Richard Chai for his polished and sophisticated looks, Ashish Gupta for his bold colors and fun prints, and Isabel Marant for her understated, French-chic vibe.

Jenny: What current fashion trends do you like and dislike the most at the moment?
Melissa: I’m enamored with the big-shoulder silhouette this season, as it reminds me of growing up in the ’80s. Also, anything with sequins or beading is on my style radar right now – so perfect for the festive holiday season. As for trends that I dislike, UGG boots and graphic sweatpants would probably be my least favorite.

Jenny: What would be the one fashion tip you would give to a friend?
Melissa: Dress in pieces that make you feel comfortable, beautiful, and confident. Know what colors and shapes flatter you, and don’t be afraid to experiment and have fun!

Jenny: And finally… as the creator of Fashion Trend Guide, where do you see the site in 5 years time?
Melissa: I can’t tell exactly what the future will bring, but with the increasing popularity of fashion blogs, I hope that my site will grow and open up doors for future opportunities and collaborations.

It’s getting closer to the big day when H&M will launch their latest collaboration with fashion designer Sonia Rykiel. Just in time for Christmas, on the 5th of December the collection of lingerie will hit selected H&M stores world wide as well as 8 major Sonia Rykiel boutiques. This is the first time a guest designer for H&M has created a whole collection of luxury lingerie for women.

The luxurious pieces are made in silk, velvet and satin with a feminine design. There’s everything from bras, suspender belts to kimonos and night dresses. There are accessories like brooches, hairbands, slippers and pillows.

The collection gives a feel of classic femininty and luxury but also comfort. I love the floaty and soft fabrics which could make anyone feel like a million dollars. What’s great about this collection is that many women can actually afford to wear a luxury piece of lingerie and it’s the perfect gift for Christmas.

Image source: fabsugar.com, hm.com