It's a Man's World

Girls Will Be Boys by Robinson Maynes featuring slip on shoes

This fall, it’s all about going back into the closet. His closet that is. Beginning as long ago as the 1930’s, borrowing items from menswear is nothing new for women; it is actually considered a classic look by some. Having reemerged each decade following, no one can deny that this effortless style statement has staying power.

In our everyday dress, it has become much more acceptable to wear black leather jackets or pants, studded bags or jewelry, or even worn jersey tees without portraying the image of a “trouble maker.” Keeping that in mind, it is very fresh look to pair menswear items like blazers and a studded bag, or use the blazer to layer over a jersey top. Another way to merge this edgy-menswear look is to wear a nice wool hat, or even throwing a scarf over a cropped pant suit for a more urban feel. Layering on studded bangles can also finish any of these looks.

For a directional look, embrace this season’s assortment of thigh high boots by wearing them with a boy fit blazer and mini skirt. Not only will you be incorporating several trends at once, but you will be creating continuity in your look, building one piece of the outfit on the other. This look is sexy and sophisticated, while also making a statement.

Perhaps the simplest way of incorporating masculine aspects into your wardrobe is with your accessory choices. Shoes often have the ability to change the entire mood of an outfit, without the help of much else. Flat or heeled oxfords look great with skirts and shorts, creating a nod to menswear without much effort. Loafers require a bit more work, however. Alexander Wang has black loafers in his collection this season, and although they are quite amazing, they require additional thought. If you’re going this route, I suggest cropped pants or jeans because there is something about showing the ankles that keep the loafers subdued. Wide trousers can work as well, but should be contrasted with other feminine aspects. Handbags also have the ability to alter the mood of an entire outfit, when styled correctly. Structured handbags in suiting material, or wool felt, can add impact to an outfit you already have in your closet, while keeping you on trend. Finally, an oversized watch, any metal, can be an affordable way to accent your fall wardrobe with a touch of masculinity.

These lucid concepts should give the clarity to welcome this reoccurring trend, and ultimately give the men a run for their money. It’s time to take charge of board room, and adopt the style of your sexual opposition. Who knew menswear could make women look so good?

Runway Report: Alexander Wang S/S 2011

Ethereal white fabrics graced the bodies of frail models as the Alexander Wang S/S 2011 show began to a promising start. Instantly noticeable was how was the loose fit pieces still had a tough edge to them, perhaps thanks to the bondage inspired straps on some of the garments.


Suddenly, splashes of silver and copper metallic leaf added immediate interest to the white, monochromatic ensembles.


A stunning silver and taupe obi belt, surprised me as it was paired with an ill-fitted, chunky sweater.


The pendulum swung back again, and simple, monochromatic looks appeared. As the colors continued to evolve, however, one could not help but to observe how much the metallic accents resembled the metallic scales on the classic children’s book “The Rainbow Fish” by Marcus Pfister. As some of us remember, towards the end of the book, the rainbow fish gives most of his metallic scales away so that he can share his beauty with the other sea creatures.



The sculptural vests and blazers contrasted against the softness of other layered pieces, which is understandable since this juxtaposition between structure and fluidity are what Alex is known for. It was quite interesting to watch as there wasn’t a set garment that was continually repeated. Rather, tops and bottoms alternated continually with various shapes and lengths, being mostly only connected through the similar fabrication and color scheme.


I did appreciate the finale look, as I could see it as a red carpet look for a more forward thinking starlet.


Although there were unique piecing and seaming techniques used on many of the garments, the overall collection lacked a sense of innovation apparent in earlier collections. Even the laced ankle boots worn on almost every model in the show, looked like countless shoes that have been continually reproduced seasons past. The clothes were wearable, and a departure from what we would expect to see from Alex, but perhaps this wasn’t a direction he should follow. Coming from the designer who created the iconic “Rocco Bag,” one would expect more progression.

The ROW: Canceled/E-Com Launch

Fashion moguls Mary-K and Ashley O. are notorious for their fashion forward ensembles on the red carpet, their consumption of XL Starbucks drinks, and of course their capability of launching very successful brands. Their more recent, high-end line “The Row” was set to be shown at New York Fashion week September 14th, but has since been canceled due to a delay in sample deliveries. The fashionable duo released a joint statement-

"We have made the decision to postpone our Spring-Summer 2011 presentation of The Row due to sample delivery. Production and delivery of our samples is delayed by a few days and this has cast us out of the New York schedule. We will therefore present it to the market within the Paris schedule. We are excited and are looking forward to presenting our collection."

The atrocity of it all. Although the company had to lay off several employees last year (probably due to the recession, like everything else) it is a favorite among of-the-moment starlets such as Carey Mulligan and tickets to its show are still some of most difficult to snag during fashion week.

There is, however, a silver lining in all of this. Just a few weeks ago, the O. twins launched the e-commerce portion of their website, TheRow.com. The site offers a wide assortment of their collection, while 360˚ views of each garment make it ideal for the shopper with a critical eye. To accompany this method, these innovative sisters also post an interactive video that viewers can shop from, while simultaneously watching. Their edgy, anti-logo aesthetic is apparent, and at the same time, each ensemble emulates the disheveled couture look that they’ve made every twenty-something conscious of. Perfect for gals (and guys) on the go, Ashley elaborates, “We’ve always believed in the power of video to communicate a brand’s message. A few years ago we created a short film to introduce our first holiday collection and it has close to a million views on YouTube. We like the fact that this new shoppable video allows the viewer to engage in the content as well as the product.” Mary-Kate added, “Women today are so busy; we want to make the shopping experience seamless and easy for them.” Well said, you two, well said.

The Lion, the Beach, and the Wardrobe

Cinco de Mayo Weekend by Robinson Maynes featuring Christian Louboutin shoes

There are many concepts that will always be timeless. A pencil skirt will always look good. High heels will always make you look thinner, etc. But when do these concepts become mundane? As the temperature outside steadily rises, I’m noticing the recurrence of three concepts that are both expected, and even passé.

First of all, why does every spring catalog showcase the “Safari” trend? Have any of us actually gone on a safari? And if you have, did you wear five inch Louboutin espadrilles with a khaki mini dress and over sized Jimmy Choo tote? Probably not. So why do always bring this trend back? A crisp white shirt has always looked very sharp with a pair of clean cut khakis, but we should try to push ourselves further out of our comfort zone and make bigger statement with our ensembles. It seems this Safari idea started somewhere and since stuck around. Let’s take away this trend’s green card and visit some new territory. South America anyone?

Of course when we’re hot, and have a pool or beach at our disposal, relaxing in the water (perhaps with a cocktail) is almost a given right on the weekends. But how many beach or pool outfits could you possibly need? Maybe a few different swimsuits to switch things up is nice, but unless you’re a professional pool party planner, you’re probably like myself and are looking for outfits for this season’s weddings, interviews, benefits, and other events where a string Missoni bikini just wouldn’t fly. Instead of every fashion publication telling me how to look bronzed without looking like a carrot, I wouldn’t mind reading an article on how to wear a suit in the spring time without sweating like I was in Bikram yoga session.

Lastly, I must address this age old idea of switching out our winter clothes for our spring clothes. It used to be mandatory that everyone had two sets of clothing: one for cold weather, one for warm weather. However, this daunting tradition not only keeps one from enjoying half of their wardrobe half of the year, but it’s also quite bothersome. I’ve always been one to buy piece at a bargain during the item’s off season, such as a sweater in June. Yet women today aren’t the type to easily succumb to such old ideals. For the modern woman, it’s all about buying great pieces, and smartly layering them differently depending on the time of year. They were miniskirts all year long, and jackets whenever they feel like it. A furry vest is all they need to stay cozy while they still rock a tank top on New Year’s Eve.

The message of this article isn’t to devalue the past ideals, or lessen their impact on the fashion industry, but rather to recognize a circle of trends and challenge all of you to push yourself, and the fashion industry, to greater bounds. Let’s not give in to mundane, and instead let’s embrace the unexpected. It’s time for us to give our old spring routine the boot. Perhaps a stiletto boot.

Classically Trained

Because of the current economic climate, it is clear that all of us, in some way or another, are feeling a financial strain. In fashion, this has lead to higher demand for more classic styles that will last longer than a single season, and have a far less disposability to them. I have noticed, however, a flaw in this system: everyone is buying the same thing! For me, it’s like watching my child fall off their bike. It’s heart breaking.

I do not want anyone to throw out these new, financial/planet conscious ideals, yet I do want to alter what they mean. Everyone seems to have a “Classic Essentials” list, and most of seem to include (but are not limited to) the following: a white shirt, a blazer, a pencil skirt, a trench coat, a day dress, and a little black dress. This article is not here to debate what should or shouldn’t be an essential to your wardrobe, but rather what you should look for when purchase anything you imagine will complete your wardrobe, act as a seasonless piece, stand the test of time, and go with countless combinations of other items. In other words, when you purchase an essential.

Beyond deciding what these items are, let us discuss what they should mean to you. Instead of purchasing the same generic white shirt everyone of your girlfriends or coworkers own, you should purchase any white blouse that you are drawn to. As long as the features that make you drawn to the top (the ruffles, pleats, or embellishments) are not too trendy or season specific, that great blouse might actually carry you further and be more versatile than a standard button up would be. For example, perhaps many consider a standard button up classic, and maybe it looks “alright” with a pencil shirt, but that silk satin shawl-neck blouse with ruffled shoulder and key hole back probably looks great with a pencil skirt, as well as your black skinny jeans, or wide leg khakis. Furthermore, you probably feel more fabulous in it!

Next, redefine what the classics are for you, based on your profession, and your lifestyle. In Arizona, for example, a phenomenal bathing suit would definitely be a classic piece since we can wear ours eight months of the year. Another way to redefine the classics is to tailor them to your own liking. If you really like gray, and you know you will wear a gray chiffon blouse with almost anything else in your wardrobe, be willing to pay a little extra since you really will get a lot of wear out of it. A gray blouse could very well be your specific classic piece. Lastly, maybe grab something deemed a classic by most, such as a trench coat, but choose a sudo-neutral like forest green that’s a little more exciting than beige, yet miraculously pairs perfectly with almost everything you wear.

Just because something is a classic, does not mean it has to be generic. Classics will mean different things to different people, so make your own rules because it is your life. Anything that you feels is timeless, seasonless, and makes you feel utterly special is your classic.

Spring Break Essentials

As spring break approaches, our hearts are filled with excitement and joy. Whether it’s a trip to Mexico, or to a sunny California beach, proper planning is vital to an organized and successful trip. The only thing standing in our way is the relentless loads of work that typically restrain our preparations before any trip. Whether it’s a professor or boss, loading up the workload, there is a mile long list of things to get done before you depart. Consequently, our brains are usually so flustered by the time our break starts, that we inevitably forget the most essential wardrobe pieces to any vacation. Luckily, I have the perfect list to keep you looking fabulous from your departure to paradise, and your arrival back home.

1. The Perfect Swimsuit- I have been there. You know, that moment when you’re about to hop into the Jacuzzi only to realize you left your swimsuit at home? Thankfully, this garment is number one on our list for that very reason. Now that you have been reminded to pack yours, let’s talk about what it should look like. First and foremost, it should reflect your personal style. Of course I’m always encouraging all of you take risks when it comes to fashion, but when you have to put yourself in a situation most women (and men) aren’t really comfortable in anyway, you might as well be wearing something that is your own style (even if it does reveal parts of your body you wish weren’t reflected…). One of the worst things is an age inappropriate swimsuit. Most women over 40 (unless you’re Jennifer Aniston) shouldn’t wear a bikini. On the same token, if you’re under 20, and rocking a suit my Nana would deem “too modest”… You probably don’t look very appropriate either.

2.A Large Tote-When traveling, even around the resort, you want to know that you have everything with you. Totes are essential to successful trips because they will hold your life. When selecting a tote, make sure it’s big enough to hold your wallet, keys, mobile, a small cosmetics bag, a towel or that a towel can drape over, and a change of shoes (more on this later in the article). I love natural fibers such as rattan. But if you’re going to go this route, you should choose one with bold hardware and even leather accents, such as ones done by Michael Kors. This will allow your tote to transition from day to dinner. Leather is also a great option. From ecru to caramel, a simple leather tote will take you far. Prints are also a nice addition, but I do recommend staying away from materials too flimsy to last a whole trip (or even day).

3.Maxi Dress/Caftan- This is one of the most versatile items you can pack. Maxi dresses and caftans can be a wonderful statement look while walking around or shopping, but also, pulled over a swimsuit, they can transform your beach look to evening with a simple shoe change and bold cuff bracelet. Not only do they come in comfortable jersey, but with endless variation in patterns, colors, and styles, it seems all these dresses have in common is their prominent floor skimming length.

4.Tunic/Mini Dress- I know, this is second dress on a small list. But trust me, you won’t regret it. As hard workers, have a tendency to play even harder, especially while on vacation. A tunic/mini dress is an ideal look around the clock. For daytime, pair yours with simple flats and your gorgeous new tote. For evening, take your look to next level with strappy sandals and box clutch. All of the sudden your embroidered tunic went from sightseeing to cocktail hour and you don’t have an excess of dirty laundry in your suitcase.

5.Denim Shorts-Just because they’re shorts, doesn’t mean they have to be very short. Denim Bermudas’ are a great look for daytime with gladiator sandals a flowing tops. If you are going to go the short-shorts route, pair them with your shorter tunics or over your swimsuit for modesty on the beach. If you have darker pair of sleek denim shorts, trying pairing them with heels, a tank, and a sequin cardigan. Why not? It’s vacation after all…

6.SPF- This is VERY important. Never leave you hotel room without it! Lots of it. And don’t stop putting it on. Try to aim for a product over SPF 30 with a light ungreasy feeling. I like Clinique’s line of sun protection, but different skin types will gravitate towards different products. The most important thing to remember is that the best way to keep our skin looking good is to prevent sun damage during our younger years. The affects of sun go deep into your skin and sometimes won’t show up for many years afterward. So lather it on, even if you don’t plan on getting too much sun, and you’re future self with thank you. Now go have fun!

A change of seasons always sparks new inspirations and fresh takes on beloved classics. By the end of any season, the novelty of weather depending clothing, starts to wear off. Sure, by August, I cannot wait to pull out my timeless v-neck sweaters and herringbone coat, but even during these crisp February mornings, my brain is yearning for a much warmer, sexier climate.

Spring represents rebirth and new beginnings, so what better time to refresh your wardrobe or louden your fashion voice? Like I always say, I’m the HUGEST fan of black. I always look slimmer, feel more comfortable, and add a little edge when I wear it. But it’s hard to keep this running when everyone around me is switching into neons and florals. Luckily, designers all over are keeping black in their Spring and Summer collections while adding bright pops of color with one of the season’s biggest jewelry trends: bangles! Now, we’re not talking about the cheap looking ones from H&M (although, those *could* be an affordable substitute). Designers are covering this wrist candy with everything from brightly dyed exotic skins, to the latest technology in resin patternmaking.

Speaking of LBDs, the most prominent silhouette for spring has got to be long sleeves, strong shoulders, and an ultra mini skirt. We’ve seen this style explode at almost every premiere event on the most fashionable celebutantes. It’s an exquisite throwback to the eighties, and a fabulous way to show off your gams. Either try a striking color choice like turquoise or magenta, or stick to black and punch it up with some of the aforementioned colorful bangles.

Finally, if you can all recall the denim-legging hybrids I predicted for fall? Well! My goodness have they taken off and going strong as the weather heats up. But don’t forget to try new silhouettes. Choose from drop crotch, to slouchy waists or even puffy pleats. Anything but the ordinary is what we’re going for here. I’m not sure when pants got so boring, but this is the opportune time to spice things up. These intricately designed pants pair flawlessly with silk tank and sky high sandals.

With everything changing these days, it’s nice to know we can always count on spring to come around, giving us the chance to a fresh start. Although we might hold onto a few past trends of season’s past, there is almost nothing more exciting than adding in a few new trends.

-Robinson Maynes

Editor’s Note: Diane von Furstenberg, who has always represented a feminist tone in a somewhat male dominated industry, partnered with Vital Voices (a non-governmental organization which provides women with resources to become business leaders and social entrepreneurs) in distributing woven bangles made by women in Zaire. These beautifully crafted bangles, some with striking ikat motifs, are a great way to punch up any LBD or even a strappy, one-piece swimsuit.