High-Fashion High

It’s a Mirror-acle!

Admit it. You’re a bit of a narcissist. From your computer’s screensaver (you in Agent Provocateur) to your ring tone (“I Know What Boys Like”) to your license plate (FXY-LDY), you’re your number one fan. So, when Gucci introduced it’s latest line of accessories- heels and handbags bedecked with triangular mini-mirrors- you were first on the list. A collection of suede platform sandals, tasseled hobos and chrome-plated clutches, they’re the first fashions that let you take a look at your sexy self while catapulting your already-stellar style. And, just think- you can finally get your Tom Ford shades back from your friend; she never stood still long enough for you to apply your lip plumper anyway.

Available at neimanmarcus.com.

First it was the trucker hat (as seen on Britney Spears and Paris Hilton); then, the Axl Rose-style scarf (Nicole Richie and Lindsay Lohan).

Today, Hollywood’s headdress of choice is Prada’s turban-style headband. Introduced on Miuccia Prada’s Spring/Summer 2007 runway in bright jewel tones, the fashion-fearless Olsen twins have been spotted on several occasions in black versions of the retro topper (reminiscent of Lucille Ball circa 1955). According to the designer, “turbans are easy, quick and powerful.” And, best of all, they hide a bad hair day.

Priced just over $300, you can purchase this season’s Prada’s turban by calling 888.977.1900.

Citing Paco Rabanne’s metallic Barbarella creations (1968) and designer Andre Courreges’s silver and white moon girl collection (1964), designers are going back to the future for this season’s out-of-this-world micro minis, reflective accents and sky-high heels. At Etro, Lanvin and Dolce & Gabbana (pictured), it was mini frocks in metallica, mod black-and-white and reflective armor that defined the trend.

Get the Look: Fendi Sequin Panel Top available at net-a-porter.com ($790).

Until this season’s ready-to-wear showings, clear accessories could be found only in establishments called Scores or Crazy Horse. But, thanks to such high fashion frontrunners as Pucci, Chanel and YSL, there is a window of opportunity for the designer-clad and fully-clothed set to sport the transparent trend. From the Lucite-and-patent-paired platforms at Dolce & Gabbana to the luxe, leather-trimmed totes at Fendi, today’s see-through extras are surprisingly chic and not-so-surprisingly sexy. Just remember- when matching sheer shoes to a peek-a-boo bag, keep your small bills stashed in a wallet. You wouldn’t want to confuse anyone.

Get the Look: Fendi’s B. Mix Large Transparent Bag is available at eluxury.com ($1580).

This cashmere scarf from Hermès, although probably divinely soft, is not what I hope for in a designer accessory. Burberry’s cashmere is unbelievably luxe enough for me, plus has their signature checks. Hermès’ scarves could at least be orange, or could have one of the whimsical prints the silk scarves do.

(If you want to read about that fabu bag, read Pursed Lips.)

On the other hand, I love the way this model is wearing an Hermès silk scarf!

And that’s a ni-ice luxe crock jacket, too!

Photos from Style.com

Custo Barcelona, an Italian design team that meshes a little of Versace’s bold spunky colors with Dolce & Gabbana’s funky styles in creations completely all its own has a little medieval and a little gypsy mixed into its line for Fall 2006.

It’s more of the scoop-neck design and the pouffed sleeves at the shoulder that make this motley-colored dress work–not to mention it’s sexy hemline. But any sly lady can tone it down with these to-die-for strappy platform Mary Janes and knee-high stockings. Custo Barcelona keeps the chic peasant look going in a blouse and skirt combo. The bottom hem of the blouse looks like a knight’s armor, but it is feminine enough to add some pop to a simple black mini-skirt.

“I Dream of Jeannie”—this is what comes to my mind when I see this sexy cutout blouse with ornate pajama bottoms. A gal with confidence could easily get away with this for a high-fashion evening soiree (or just a night out with the girls). I personally love Custo because of their complete mix of styles all within one line. Take this schoolgirl look, for example (no, I don’t mean Britney either!!!). A lilac silky tailored blouse with the trademark “C” looks so sweet with a pleated skirt and a tiny gold belt adorning the model’s hips. With this outfit, the knee-high stockings are a must to complete it for day, or try going bare-legged for the evening.

And last but certainly not least, Custo’s flowered dress and cape are an evening stand-out. No, this isn’t just fabric with flowered designs—it’s the threads woven into flowers that make me look at this and think, “Now which young starlet is going to show up wearing this one?”

Chaiken might not be the most well-known designer on the American shores, but the designer certainly knows how to appeal to the timeless tastes of many women from all cultures. Take the dresses, first of all: From a classic A-line black dress that just falls at the knees to the collared and long-sleeved little red number that is definitely professional, these are ready for day or night, summer or fall.

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Yes, we all know the fact Burberry means classic plaid. Where else can you go for plaid that won’t get you laughed at or accused of liking that blast from the ’70s past a little too much?

For example, the deep browns contrasted with white in Burberry’s skirt looks like a professional but flirty choice for fall or winter when paired with black tights and shiny black pumps. And of course, with a plaid skirt, a solid colored sweater is a must. If it is in the same color family as the skirt, that is a bonus, but Burberry makes wonderful warm matching sweaters with its skirts and pants.

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This unmistakably hot dress by Zac Posen from the Spring 2006 runway is available for $2,400 on Net-a-Porter.com.

It’s remarkably the same dress, with flattering pleats on the chest and a disco print on a mid-length halter. Do me a favor, don’t use its pockets.

Miss Sixty never fails to keep the pulse of young, hip, and fun ladies. Although her fashions may seem too edgy and “street” for some, they never fail to make me smile and say, “I’ll take three of those, please!”
Denim is a staple in Miss Sixty’s Fall 2006 Ready-To-Wear collection. Pants, shorts, and jackets all are stylish and flirty. A pair of extra-long cuffed denim jeans (every tall girl is thankful right about now) matched with a red and black slinky sleek tank is sure to grab some attention. Accessories are also a must in Miss Sixty’s collections: wide-brimmed fedora hats, head scarves, and golfing-style gloves add that extra punch of color.

Miss Sixty has coats that could double as dresses, but they will certainly protect against the chill in fall weather and keep girls in style. A double-breasted bright red coat matched with a woven knit hat and cinched at the waist is perfect for rainy days.

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