Daily Steal: H&M Garden Collection Detailed Dress

Doing my every-other-day stroll through the H&M on newbury st, a little dress caught my eye. Part of the new garden collection by h&m, this dress was simple, chic, and really really cheap. Only $19.90, it's amazing, and looks like it cost a hell of a lot more than 20 billz. Available in either white or a fabulous shade of blue, it has a flattering shape for any body type. This trapeze/babydoll hybrid can be dressed up with some killer heels or down with some sandals and gold bangles - take your pick. You know you want it, so don't deny yourself, its a splurge you can definitely afford to make.

Flower detail dress by the Garden Collection at H&M. Available in blue and white. $19.90 at H&M stores nationwide.

Obsession: Abercrombie & Fitch Spring Playlist

While it's slightly embarassing to admit it, i realllllyyyy love the music at abercrombie. Always dance-worthy and upbeat, it makes you wanna fist pump right in front of the bitchy workers. While the clothes may sometimes be tacky, the music is never, and its always fabulous. AND the plus side is that it's available on your computer! just go to abercrombie.com, select 'playlist', and lo and behold you have a dance club in your house. Quite convenient, especially when you want to feel like you're in Karma with snooks and dj pauly d. Don't hate on it - just listen, and dancedancedanceeee like the real guidette you are.

A Boston Original: Paige Carruthers

Those at Boston Latin know Paige for her eclectic style. Never a brand name shopper, Paige manages to find fabulous items of clothing at some of the most random places in the world - an example, a series of shirts from china. Who else would be able to pull off a floral backpack, fake flowers in her hair, or chunky printed sweaters? no one, thats who. Always the topic of whispered conversations for her clothes, mainly "oh my god, i love paige's outfit," she can never be copied, and as one observer put it "if paige can manage to look good in thigh high black boots she can pull off anything."Having fun with her clothes, as well as dressing to fit her personality, paige is truly a boston original in the sense that there is definitely no one else like her.

The Disappearance of Pants

Next time you're walking outside or at school, take a look around. Do you spot any pants? I didn't think so. Now current with surprising staying power, leggings are back and don't see to be leaving any time soon. Worn either under a dress, a tunic, or simply as pants themselves, these stretchy pants that were originally invented as 80s workout gear has remained as a predominant trend. While not necessarily being shown on the runways, it definitely has a huge impact on street style, and everyone has caught the legging-fever. Do i hate this trend? No, not really. Every girl has the right to feel fabulous and comfortable at the same times, and i understand - sometimes you just don't want to wear actual pants. It's no big deal - just make sure that you have kickass legs, thighs, and a tush thats harder than a teenage boy at the playboy mansion - the last thing you want is a saggy bottom half, especially if it's on display for the whole world to see. While i wouldn't necessarily mind if leggings disappeared into the abyss for a long long time, its really no big deal. Do what you will, but always look fabulous while doing it. But one stipulation - NEVER wear cowboy boots with leggings, unless you want to be mistaken as a lost billy ray cyrus roadie from the 80s.

Timeless Treasure: Christy Turlington

Known for being the most professional model to ever walk the catwalks, Christy Turlington has never let fashion watchers down. With her unique face - the blend of a south american mother and american father - and her ageless beauty, Christy looks as good as she did 20 years ago. Now semi-retired, she has recently appeared in ads for Bally, Escada, YSL, and Chanel, looking as fabulous and flawless as ever (on par with the pre-photoshopping era of Calvin Klein Eternity ads). Now with her own workout clothing line and activism for PETA, Christy is definitely one in a million. Keep up the faaaaaablous work girlie!

Fabulous or Faux-Pas: Fat Is The New Skinny

After facing harsh criticism from worldwide media, the fashion world has finally decided to listen to what people have been saying since the late 90s - it's time to ditch the scarily skinny models and embrace the average woman. While some prominent members of the fashion world have expressed loathing for full figured models, this hasn't stopped New York City from creating a plus sized fashion week. Debuting in the near future, the shows will only include full sized models and clothing, determined to represent the real american woman on the runway. Some may argue this idea is a disgrace to the ideals fashion is supposed to project, i highly disagree. It's high time that real women are represented - they're the ones who actually wear the clothes. Although it is a treat seeing gorgeous women in fabulous evening gowns sashay down the catwalks, a new refreshing breath of fresh air that was desperately needed has arrived. Fabulous, indeed.

Obsession: Ray Ban Rare Prints Wayfarer

The only sunglasses i wear, ray ban wayfarers are a cultural icon. Worn by everyone from holly golightly to the blues brothers, theses babies mean style and class. A truly classic and timeless wardrobe necessity (i own them in tortoise - i know plain, but practical) you can never go wrong wearing them. For spring 2010, ray ban has launched a new and limited edition collection of revamped classics such as the wayfarer and the clubmaster. While not in everyone's price range, it would be a very worthwhile investment piece, and you'll never doubt your purchase once you wear them. My favorite (and current obsession) from the new series is the redone wayfarer in day-glo orange, lined on the inside with a map of the new york city subway. Chic, urban, and very very cool, these are definitely worth obsessing about.

Ray Ban rare Prints Series Wayfarers in Orange. $139.99 at rayban.com and retailers nationwide.

Daily Steal: Old Navy Cropped Rosette Cardigan

Worn in true pimp style by Monet last week, I immediately loveddd it when i saw her in it. I asked "Oh haii i lovee your cardigan, where's it from?" and she answered "thaaaaaanks its from old navy" I was shocked. Old navy - The old navy that makes tacky sweatshirts and dependable flipflops in every color of neil patrick harris's rainbow? Too good to be true. To double check (sorry monet) i checked the old navy website, and low and behold, it was indeed from there. It's currently the daily steal simply because for the look (chic and simple and springy) it has, but also for the price. This faboosh cardigan can be yours for only $26.50 - a genuine steal!!! Seeing as i pay upward of $70 at j.crew for something with a lot less snazzmataz, its truly a daily steal worth purchasing.

Old Navy Cropped Rosette Cardigan, $26.50 at OldNavy.com and Old Navy stores nationwide. Available in Peaches & Cream and Ashen Lilac in sizes XS-XXL.

Best Spring/Summer 2010 Ad Campaign: Balenciaga

This is Michaela Bosch, here for a special edition post!

This was the most eye-catching ad I've seen in a long time. I love the wild arrangement of the models, the contrast with the simplicity of the background, and those dresses are so cool. I can forgive them for those awful open-toed boots later. For a closer look at more ads, go to http://balenciaga.com/.

Obsession: Rugby Alexa Jacket

Now that spring-y weather had arrived to the Boston area, it's time for you girls to update your wardrobes. What better way to start than with Rugby's Alexa Jacket? Made out of lightweight wool, and complete with contrast white edging and a golden crest, this yellow jacket screams spring. Sure to get you many a double-take, this jacket is definitely you're one investment for the season, and could work many different ways - pair it with jeans and a polo, a sundress, some seersucker shorts and a cami - take your pick. Either way, this GORGEOUS jacket is versatile and chic enough to be worn all season long. Though it's quite a splurge at $298, remember Rugby's fantastic student discount and get 15% off just by showing your ID. And if you need a bigger push, justify it with all the times you're already thinking of wearing it.

Rugby Ralph Lauren Alexa Doeskin Wool Jacket in Yellow. Available in sizes XS to XL at Rugby Ralph Lauren stores and rugby.com

Must Read: House of Versace by Deborah Ball

I just finished this book, and it was amazing! For the first time, the Versace family has cooperated on a book about themselves, and this one doesn't disappoint. Full of scandal, heartbreak, and struggle for survival, House of Versace tells the story of Gianni's rise to fashion superstardom and how Donatella was left to pick up the pieces of his empire after his brutal and unexpected murder. I cannot reccomend it enough, and it's definitely a must read for everyone. Pick it up at your local library or book retailer today and enjoy!

So Much Sex, So Little Time

Girlies, get your manolos ready - in 2 months and 6 days, Sex and the City 2 will be coming to a movie theater near you!!!!! I cannot wait for this bad boy, and as a warmup, i have been watching seasons 1-6 plus the first movie in their entirety. Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte, and Samantha will be coming back even more fabulous and even more stylish than before, and the whole world is waiting with baited breath for their triumphant return. The countdown has officially begun!

but, for now, induldge yourself with this little morsel of the amazingness that will be coming your way verrrry soon:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vPSR1RlXX8

Gap-Toothed=The New Hawtt?

With the current surge of new models, it's hard to stop and actually remember a face. However, when one has such unattractive features as Georgia May Jagger, it's hard to ignore. While the clothes she models are fabulous, her mouth is not, and it's definitely time to invest in a good orthodontist. And its not like she can't afford it - she's the daughter of Mick Jagger and Jerry Hall! While our human counterparts on the other side of the ocean may think bad teeth are tres chic, in America, it's much more embarrassing to have that situation going on in your mouth than any form of dental work. There are plenty of other british models who are stunning but remain perfectly normal looking (Agyness Deyn, Kate Moss, and Naomi Campbell, for example), so maybe it's time to join the ranks. We get it - you're unique, you're different, you're trying to make a statement - but please, honey, make that statement with your mouth closed.

HELLO Spring

Well, I can now officially say that it is Spring. And I'm happy to say I bid my dear friend winter goodbye in white shorts a red and white striped nautical themed tank, American Eagle, a cardigan and flip flops. God knows why I choose this lovely friday to commit foot suicide, but I couldn't deny my Marc Jacobs flips their chance to shine. I suggest start wearing your flip flops asap! break your feet in for the lovely weather.

Well anyways lets talk cheap finds....

Flip Flops! Clearly these are a must have for the Spring and Summer but why pay coin when you can get your favorite colors for a cheap price? I suggest Old Navy I can vouch that they are durable and comfy...

http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.dopid=522173112&tid=onggprod1r&ap=13&ggprod=id_28198479

and plus they are only 3.50$

Coming Attraction: Zac Posen for Target

After feeling slightly underwhelmed at Jean Paul Gaultier's collaboration with Target, its time for some good news. Debuting on April 25, Zac Posen has teamed up with the lower-priced store to create a collection of simple, chic, and utterly American looks. Ranging from swimsuits to blazers to dresses to jackets, the collection is completely Zac Posen, without the hefty price tag. Although Posen has faced criticism recently about his dwindling buisness, this collection for Target is right on point, and has something for everyone in every price range. My personal favorite is the red tulle-skirted dress (pictured above), which for only $79.99 is quite a steal but still uber fashionable. Don't wait to pounce, girlies, it's sure to sell out pretty quickly.

Zac Posen for Target debuting April 25th at target.com & Target stores nationwide.

Daily Steal: L.L. Bean Patchwork Madras Tote

While i hate to admit it, i love L.L. Bean, and as a New Englander, products from this Maine-based brand are a common feature in my life. Collected throughout the years, my house has a variety of their classic boat-and-tote bags, used for the beach, for school, and even for travel. This spring, update your wardrobe with a shot of classic prep and try the new L.L. Bean patchwork madras tote, built with the same construction as their classic canvas totes, but this time with an added splash of color, and for only $29.99, don't let this summer staple pass you by.

L.L. Bean Patchwork Madras Tote in Navy. Available in Small & Medium at llbean.com and L.L. Bean stores nationwide.

Late: Paris Fashion Week

LOUIS VUITTON - Marc Jacobs, the creative director of the legendary French fashion house since 1999, decided to take the fall collection in a lovely new direction that set him apart from many other Paris designers. Instead of stark minimalism, Jacobs honed in on Mad Men-esque dresses, complete with full skirts, skirt suits, and pointed-toe bowed stilettos. The palate was lovely, and although it bordered on spring with its florals (a common direction several Paris designers are taking) and strapless dresses, he also stayed true to autumn with his lovely sweaters, layered over camisoles and corsets and paired with full knee-length skirts. And, since this is Louis Vuitton, the runway wouldn't be complete without the accessories. For fall, he revamped the classic Speedy bag, and this time instead of the signature LV monogram canvas, it was displayed in fox fur, sequins, and alligator. A classic, yet chic and fabulous touch on an iconic bag. From the collection, my favorite pieces were a lovelyy beige and white floral printed dress, complete with black straps and full skirt. The look was simple but still a knockout. Another item from the collection i ADORED was the skirt suit in the copper metallic jacquard, complete with a black shawl collar and tulle-lined skirt. Elegant, beautiful, and wearable, it hit all the right notes. However, my alltime favorite from this collection was part of the finale of evening gowns - this one in light pink tulle, and ruched, pleated, and pouffed in all the right places. A hint of 50's prom, golden age Paris, and a lot of fun, its definitely the best from the entire collection.

Prom: What the eff?

Prom 2010: Kill me now?

At the moment, the hot topic in the junior class at BLS is one word: Prom. In september, no one could wait for it - they'd have the perfect dress, the perfect date, and the perfect night. Now, as contracts go out and dates are being snatched up like samples at BJs, a mass panic has begun.

Girls are freaking out about finding a date - they shudder to think about not being asked, because they think it's the equivalent of "you're not worth my time" from any boy. As Boston and its surrounding suburbs are being ravaged by girls trying to find the perfect date, they seem to not have any luck - its too big, too expensive, too pouffy, or simply too ugly. It makes my ass look big, i look like i have no boobs - you name it, everyones having the same issues. Girls, don't worry, you'll look fabulous whether your dress costs $450 or $40. As long as you look dayuummmmm gurll ju be sexXxXyyyy, you're all set to go. And as for a date, why wait for a boy? Ask anyone you want - someone's gotta have the balls to do it.

Boys - don't stress on who your date it - all its really for it for pictures, right? Pick a friend, and have fun. But, don't wait too long, or your dream girl may be taken by your best friend. Plus, make sure you look supahh flyy - don't settle for anything less. You've gotta look bomb in your pictures, plus you don't want your date to ditch you once you get there. Keep it simple, keep it classic, and don't wear any color tuxedo except for black, unless you want to look like your dad from his prom in 1978.

There's wayy too much stress going down, but just breathe, and remember - it's just prom.

Obsession: Sperry for J.Crew

In honor of two fabulous hipsters named Rory and Brighid, im posting my obsession of the day:

Sperry Top-Sider Authentic Original 2-eye Metallic Boat Shoes!!!!

For $98 these biddies can be yours, and consider them a verrrry worthwhile investment. Always in style, Sperry steps it up to a new level of fabulosity with its rose-gold hued boat shoes, and wearing these, you'll definitely get some serious compliments.

Sperry Top-Sider Authentic Original 2-eye Metallic Boat Shoes - Available in whole sizes 6-10 at www.jcrew.com

On The Night of a Beautiful Day, I Allow My Beautiful Mind to Go Astray....

Until we are knee deep into spring, or until we reach scorching temperatures, I will probably be relating everything to the generally amazing weather. This weekend I will be starting my photography for the blog searching for people with unique style as well as stores in the downtown Boston area for great but cheap buys.

But, seeing as it is a new season, I believe it's a time for new opportunities. Try to let your mood match the peerless beauty of the blue skies! If you wear a lot of black or darker shades mix it up a little; add a bright article of clothing ... or if that's too big of a step add accessories: clips, headbands, purses etc. If you are a pastels person tone it down with simple slacks or shorts, on top (if the weather calls for it) a simple cardigan in a grey, white, or even a black compliments every outfit!

Fabulous or Faux-Pas: Gladiator Sandals

Introduced to the modern fashion world some 2000-odd years ago, these babies were reborn in '07 with Balenciaga's spring line. Now, three years later, they seem to be EVERYWHERE. Has this little footwear trend outstayed its welcome? Personally, i think it's time to go. While i do love having women resemble Russel Crowe in Gladiator, the shoes were (stress were) indeed fashionable, yet not so functional. Every time i see someone wearing them, i want to snatch them off her feet and throw them in the Charles. Once a trend has remained this long, its not usually a good thing, especially since top designers are not even creating them a long time ago. For my sake and yours, pleaseee embrace some new and fabulous trend. Now with cheap and tacky versions at Payless and H&M, its definitely time to say adieu to this faux pas for at least another 2000 years.

Late: Paris Fashion Week

ELIE SAAB - Known mainly for the gowns he dresses red-carpet celebrities in (think Anna Kendricks and Rachel McAdams from the Oscars), Elie Saab knows his forte is sumptuous evening gowns. Personally, they're my favorite thing about fashion too, but still, how often does a woman really wear one? Hopefully realizing this himself, Saab followed the current (but boring) trend of designers to focus mainly on more wearable and practical pieces, but didn't fail to satisfy our need for glamour with the finale of his show. While many of the daywear/cocktail ensembles were in basic black, Saab showed some fabulous suits, notably the black one displayed above. Simple and chic, he turned a classic black skirt suit into heaven with the wonderful basket weave fabric (plus, a little added shine never fails to produce something eye-catching). Then there was a parade of sequined dresses, both long and short, which in my mind were a much needed jolt of adrenaline in a somber runway show. Whether they were in dark blue, green, or maroon, the dresses glistened, and the simple yet amazing one pictured above is definitely my favorite from the group. Not too trashy, not too boring, yet a little on the conservative-ish side, its stunning. However, the finale of the show displayed my favorite thing about Elie's work. The group of pleated and draped chiffon gowns, ranging from a grey ombre affair to the BEAUTIFUL blue number above, the gowns were heaven, and definitely will be seen on the red carpet soon. While not as grand and fun as his spring collection, Elie Saab hits the mark with a wearable and stunning collection satisfactory for every road in life you could possibly need to travel.

Late: Paris Fashion Week

ALEXANDER MCQUEEN - After is tragic passing on February 11, many (including us) wondered what would be the fate for the amazing design house. While a new designer was appointed a few weeks ago, the collection shown for fall 2010 was purely Lee McQueen, and the whole 16 piece collection was a fitting tribute to a legendary designer. Known for putting on quite a show (when he showed his spring 2010 line, his website crashed because of the amount of people trying to see it and hear Lady GaGa's new song), and each collection never failed. Over the years, his collections have amazed me, as well as fashion critics, for his mastery of couture craftsmanship within a ready-to-wear line. This collection uphold every expectation i had, and when i first saw the 16 pieces i was awestruck by the beauty of each garment. Ranging from a red satin dress with gold embroidery to a gown complete with a golden feather bodice and embroidered tulle skirt, it lived up to its renaissance-meets-byzantine influence. The fabric used was even more fabulous - if you look closely on the second dress posted, you can see pictures of angels, demons, and cherubs screen printed onto it. Together, the collection was a masterpiece, and it's too hard to choose favorites. Gorgeous and completely breathtaking, Alexander McQueen's final collection was truly a smash.

Photos: Kira Salhaney

THE most photogenic of all my friends, Kira never fails to produce a gorgeous picture. above is evidence that she's absolutely stunning both behind the lens and in real life. best prom pictures out of everyone? i think so.

Marc by Marc Jacobs

I can never walk between C and B on Newbury without stopping here... It used to be the colors that dragged me in... Now? it's the fact that I know inside there are about a million different things pricing from five dollars to wayy out of my price range, so we can call it a mixture of window shopping and well... actual shopping. They always have great flip flops in more colors than the rainbow can brag about having, and they are CHEAP! I believe last time I bought them they were 11 dollars or so.

Of course, if you go to the back of the store it becomes more expensive but its worth the trip to just even look at what they have. The people who work there are AMAZING and so sweet. With everything from key chains, pocket mirrors, flip flops, rain boots, assorted bags and many more smaller items to... dresses that could put a large dent in your wallet, the Marc Jacobs store has you covered.

marcjacobs.com

(enjoy)

p.s. Marc by Marc Jacobs is a line of Marc Jacobs and is cheaper than Marc Jacobs (the more letters the less cash)

Daily Steal: Forever 21 Ikat Linen Top

Batik prints have been showing up on many runways this spring (Gucci and Louis Vuitton to name a few). Who says this very spring-y trend can only be accessible to those with AmEx black cards? Try Forever21, where this simple yet right-on-trend top can be yours for only $17.80.

A Boston Original: Zoe Swartz

Parting with the Paris runways (temporarily!), we're going to focus on the people who have great style of their own. This weeks focus is on Zoe Swartz, a Boston native and BLS student, who, no matter the day of the week, no matter her attitude, and no matter her budget, always looks fabulous. Obviously contender for best dressed in our grade, Zoe daily shows panache, good taste, and her own point of view in the outfits she wears. A true testament that it doesn't take a label to make you fashionable, but just a good eye and a lot of patience, Zoe hits the mark every time she throws an ensemble together. Bravo, Zoe, bravo.

Is That Spring I Smell?

Have you ever realized the weather changes your mood for the better?

Well just a few hours ago my room experienced this first hand...

Now, you can see my cherry floors and each shoe has a pair.

Unfortunately for my jeans and sweats they have been demoted to the fourth tier of my closet shelving, and my greatest apologies to denim but I AM GLAD TO SEE YOU GO! Who replaced them? you ask. Well, lets just say that now a shelf once filled with an array of light to dark wash has been replaced with more options and less material... yes shorts and skirts. These are the first signs of hope, a shining beacon you might say, for us New Englanders who suffer from a bi-polar weather bureau.

To those looking at my 'warm weather attire' it may not appear all that interesting seeing as it holds: several notable skirts, a pair of black shorts, a pair of white shorts, and just as many jean shorts as skirts. But, I love having "staples" (main articles of clothing that hold your wardrobe together) which is what I believe this shelf consists of. To me it's all about the shirts, sweaters, and tank tops, what you wear below those should simply compliment it. I like the attention to be drawn to one aspect of the outfit so if you have a nice shirt go with the plain old jean shorts. I love having things in my closet that I can dress up or down, take a look at the picture some of the outfits are more causal than the others but can easily be made just a little dressier. All I'm saying is.. don't go buy a million different versions of the same thing go for shape color and style to cover your warm weather lounging, nights out, and days on the beach

Late: Paris Fashion Week

CHANEL - who doesn't know it? The iconic, eternally luxurious and opulent brand founded in 1914 by Coco herself has gotten an upgrade for fall 2010 - Chanel meets the North Pole. Kaiser Karl Lagerfeld has wowed us yet again, and after 27 years he doesn't seem to be slowing down any time soon. Besides the recent rumors that he may be retiring, he was right on track for fall with a PETA-friendly line that wowed everyone, us included. Bringing the arctic literally to the runway by importing a scandinavian block of ice, the collection ranged from absurd at some times (Baptiste Giabicone and Brad Koening in faux-fur patchwork bodysuits) to the utterly elegant with his redux of the classic Chanel tweed suit. Some of the highlights include a massive faux-fur jacket, which looks convincingly like the real thing. Chic while not so practical, Karl brings us a little Russia to the runway in Paris. Another love from the collection was the finale "wedding" dress, which, with a tiered white chiffon skirt and beautiful knit sweater-top, it's a winter wonderland in dress-form. And, our absolute LOVE from this entire collection was a pretty basic concept - the ombre cashmere mini-sweater dress, which went from ice blue to white in a fabulous combination of classic and simple style.

My Blogging Cherry Pops....

So, as you can see Andrew has already posted quite a lot... But, I am bringing something different to the table. While I enjoy haute couture as much as the next guy, I will be focusing on the fashion of everyday people. My Minolta, this is a film camera for those who are not aware, and I will hit the streets of Boston to document the fashion of its everyday people. Whether it's couture, name brand, or Kmart, I do not care; I am looking to see who has personal style and how they let it shine through with their everyday attire.

Embarking on a very time-consuming project without a due date Lydia, and her favorite boy, are going to do their thing....

Artist of the Week: Alphabeat

Every wednesday we'll post our current musical obsession, and we hope you all enjoy them as much as we do

Straight out of Denmark, Alphabeat is quite amazing. A hit group in Europe, ever since their 2007 debut with This Is Alphabeat, they've been racking up successful singles on the other side of the ocean. Now with the release of The Beat Is... in England on March first, we just can't get enough. Our favorite songs as of now would have to be Heatwave, Hole in My Heart, and The Right Thing. Currently an obsession for us at Haute But Not Haughty, hopefully, you'll love them just as much as we do!

Flashback: Viva La Linda!

Linda Evangelista - the name makes me shudder out of admiration and respect for what this woman has eaccomplished. Without a doubt THE most famous supermodel of all time, la linda has been in style for more than 20 years (take that, shoulder pads). Always fabulous and seemingly eternally youthful, her contribution to fashion, as well as the world is not one to be forgotten. With notable campaigns in the late eighties/early nineties for Versace, Valentino, and Barneys New York, and more recently Prada, Linda is a fashion fixture, like a Chanel suit or Burberry trench, that will always be tres chic.

Fabulous or Faux-Pas: Denim Shirts

Some may argue that denim belongs below the belt, but i happen to disagree. Personally i love denim shirts, and even though they may scream hick, hall & oates roadie, or that you seem to be stuck in 80's americana, its not the case. Exhibited on the spring 2010 runways by Chloe, D&G, and Louis Vuitton, denim harks back to a time when fashion was simple, utility was chic, and being comfortable was all that mattered. An avid wearer of denim shirts, i believe they are practical, they go with pretty much everything, and affordable on all price levels. Unless you wear it with a peasant skirt, matching jacket, or same-colored pants, you will look casual yet put together and utterly chic yet classic, and From either Barneys or H&M, the denim shirt is truly a fabulous addition to the spring line-up, and hopefully, it doesn't go out of style any time soon.

Late: Paris Fashion Week

http://www.style.com/fashionshows/review/F2010RTW-BALENCIA

Balenciaga - While i admitted that i loathe minimalism, the way Nicholas Gesqiuere does it completely falsifies that statement, and while it may be minimal, its definitely not boring. After fawning over his take on spring (the ads alone will make you giddy) his fall line is truly spectacular. You may view fall as simply dark colors, layers, and a lot of jackets and sweaters (like some of the other Paris collections), but Gesquiere completely disregarded the norm and set out on a lovely new and fresh take. His color-blocked separates are divine, his zipper-top pants are marvelous, and the crochet dresses are swoon-worthy. Favorites from this collection include a blush-pink sweater and skirt set, complete with mint green, light yellow, white, grey, and black color blocking. The whole look is fabulous, and the expertly placed colored strips will surely make this a sellout. Another look i adore is the grey shift dress with the appliqued white, orange, and black leaves (?) and butterflies (?). Modeled over a sheer black button down, the dress screams luxury without trying too hard. Also, my favorite look from the collection is one of the breathtakingly beautiful-yet-simple crochet tiered dresses, this one in light pink. With the simple racer-back silhouette and fabulous edging, this dress is definetly the highlight of the entire collection. Practical, wearable, and oh so luxuriously amazing, the dress is purely a fantasy.