Plaid and Cigarettes

A New Manifesto

2011-08-08T14:39:00.007-04:00

All,

As you might have already noticed, I haven't exactly been blogging a lot lately.

As much as I wish I could keep this fun little blog going forever, the truth is, I simply can't. I'll be heading off to college in a mere two weeks, and with the demands of all of the coursework and additional activities, there's no way I can update this anymore.

Of course, I'm very sad over finally excepting this fate. This blog has been an amazing place for me to express myself, and I've met and interacted with many people and new friends who I wouldn't have gotten to know if it wasn't for this blog. You all are truly amazing individuals.

However, this isn't a definite "goodbye" type thing. I'm not deleting P&C, and it will be up until Blogger eventually deletes it do to inactivity. And who knows, maybe a year or two into college I'll be back blogging again. I'd certainly like that.

Again, I would like to thank all of my followers and friends I've met during my two years as a blogger. I'll seriously never forget you, and will continue reading your blogs! You all are seriously a special and unique group of people, and it was a privilege to get to know all of you.

I'm still going to keep my Twitter (because, c'mon, tweeting is really fun). I've also *just* created a Tumblr account for fun - I'll probably update it a few times a week. Find that here.

Thanks for the memories. I'm really going to miss you all. Stay golden!

Dev xx

Model Talk: Interview With Christine Staub

2011-06-06T15:10:00.010-04:00

Christine Staub is not your typical model (or high schooler, for that matter). Even though she walks runways, appears on magazine covers (who could forget the Daily she beautifully graced?), gets photographed by world-renown photographers, and collaborates with fashion's best (Hi, Tavi Gevinson), there is one major difference between her and other models: she's just 17 years old. But don't expect delusions of grandeur and Campbell-I'll-throw-my-cellphone-at-you-diva-tantrums from this budding starlet - an honors student and church-goer, Staub's down-to-earth and humble attitude (on top of her natural beauty) make her a rare combination that the modeling world so desperately needs. And just like any other teenager, she swoons over Leo Dicaprio and enjoys a good sale. Do I see a NYLON feature in the near future for her? Yes, yes I do. I was lucky enough to recently ask her a few questions, and if you don't fall in love with her by the end, you are a Dalek. Fact.

Name? Christine Nicole Staub
Age? 16
Agency? IMG Models

At what age did you realize you wanted to start modeling? When I was younger I always despised everyone who made an attempt to take a photograph of me - I was shy and beyond awkward. But then at the age of fourteen I was scouted by a few agencies and they opened my eyes to the modeling industry. Ever since I've been hooked.

Who are your favorite designers? My favorite designers are Tommy Hilfiger, Betsey Johnson, and many others but it would take me ages to list them all. The one designer I've met is Betsey Johnson, and she was crazy so of course I loved her.

What work are you most proud of? I'm most proud of the shows I have walked in. This is because in order to walk a fashion show, you must be confident in yourself and your body. And in today's world with all the media pressure to be perfect I am proud of myself because I love the skin I'm in and confident to flaunt my stuff on a runway.

That's lovely to hear! Has there been a favorite show that you walked? Yes! My favorite show I walked was during NY Fashion Week, for the designer Elene Cassis - the whole show itself was amazing. The clothes really impressed me and I was the show opener, so I had the runway all to myself which I was very happy about.

If you could walk any designer's show, which one would it be? Betsey Johnson. I am in love with her edgy yet completely adorable clothes, and her shows are always fun and energetic - like me.

Favorite food? Cereal

Favorite movie? The Ugly Truth

Favorite TV show? Pretty Little Liars

Celebrity crush? Leonardo Dicaprio

Favorite band or singer? One Republic, Eminem

Favorite color? Red

What are your favorite things to do when you're not modeling? When I'm not working I'm always in New York City or running for cross country and track. Having free time for me is a rare occurrence because of my hectic non stop schedule! What I accomplish in a day amazes me, and I'm so thankful I can run on no energy.

Tell me about your school. I recently transferred to small all girls school (450 total), which I love. My schooling experience there has been amazing so far - I'm very lucky to be a student at such a great school. And I don't miss school unless I absolutely have to! In February for Fashion Week I will have to miss school, but I go to school even when I'm sick because I cant stand missing work and falling behind! My favorite class is definitely English.

If you could give any advice to teenage girls who want to become models, what would it be? I would tell them that the modeling industry is rough, and people will indeed degrade you. But in order for you to stay strong, you must know that at the end of the day you should always love yourself.

What were some challenges you faced when you first became a model? Was there anything that surprised you or intrigued you about the industry? When I became a model I was very shy and timid, but that has all changed in the past couple years. In many ways I have evolved and become very independent. I have also learned how to eat healthy and stay in shape. What surprised me the most about modelling is the artistic aspect of modeling; many people don't realize that through every photograph a story is told.

Your mom has been a target of media scrutiny ever since starring in the Real Housewives of New Jersey. How do you respond to writers, columnists, and people who think negatively about your mom? The show portrayed my mom in the completely wrong way. So many scenes were edited to make it seem intense when it really wasn't. I do not approve of that show and all the negativity it has brought to my mom in the media. Ever since seeing how much editing is done, I no longer watch any television except the occasional sitcoms; never a reality show. If I could say anything to the media I would ask them if selling magazines is really worth writing the demeaning and completely false accusations about my mom. I know who my mom is and that is just simply not her, enough said.

What was it like being styled by Tavi for your Blackbook shoot? Tavi is a thirty year old designer stuck in a thirteen year old's body. She knew more about fashion then I even knew was attainable and she continues to amaze me.

Do you see yourself making a life out of modeling, or do you think it will only last for a few years? Modeling for me is something I have passion for, but school is also very important for me. I plan to continue modelling throughout my high school and college career.

Have you started thinking about college yet? I've thought about college since I was about ten years old, and I definitely want to go to a university! I want to get a degree and have an amazing career. I don't know what career path I will follow yet, but I'm sure it will be amazing.

You go, girl!

purple flowers

2011-05-07T15:44:00.011-04:00

So with my graduation coming up and school nearly done, I've been doing what any sensible high school senior does...procrastinate/sleep/watch television/sleep/shop. A fun day (which of course required skipping school) I had recently was meeting up with an old mate of mine for lunch at Bubby's in TriBeca, where we noshed on frisée salads and mini mozzarella sandwiches. My mate is a semi-professional photographer who recently got engaged (MCQUEEN MAID OF HONOR DRESS FOR ME? PIPPA MIDDLETON GOT NOTHIN'), so as you can imagine she took a lot of pictures and I made her show me her ring every three minutes. We later headed off to a local bakery for some fresh lavender cupcakes.

Headband: Anthropologie

Anyway...I really love this purple headband. It's floral and feminine and posh and sweet. A perfect addition to my black/dark outfit.
Keeps me from looking like a little goth child.

Virtue

2011-04-05T10:59:00.012-04:00

All - many thanks for your patience as I return to the blogging world. The past two weeks have been filled with the inevitable college decision process, and I'm pleased to say I've *finally* chosen a place which I think I'll be very happy with, despite it not being my first choice. #rejection. I'm just happy that the whole process is over! Do all of you remember your college decision days? AND I SAW THE STROKES ON FRIDAY. ELVIS COSTELLO DROPPED BY. BEST CONCERT EVER EVER EVER. Anyhow, before my Albert Hammond Jr. love rants begin, on to blogging!

So, I'm kind of obsessed with Karlie Kloss. It's like all things I love reproduced into one girl. Like, I'm convinced she lives with woodland creatures in a happy forest. This girl, she is the Albert Hammond Jr. of girls (NOT IN A "DRUG FILLED I LIKE DRINKING AND PLAYING AWESOME ELECTRIC GUITAR MUSIC" KIND OF WAY BUT IN THE "DEVON'S OBSESSED WITH YOU" KIND OF WAY). Why? Here's why:

1) She enjoys making snow angles in Central Park with friends.

2) She bakes peanut butter cookies for Alexander Wang.

3) She brings her high school English teacher to couture shows.

4) Her favorite book is the Great Gatsby.

5) She visited Haiti for earthquake relief.

6) She founded a charity called Karlie Cares to help children in third world countries.

7) She's good mates with Coco Rocha, Chanel Iman, Abbey Lee Kershaw, and Jourdan Dunn. GOOD. MATES.

8) SHE IS ON A FIRST NAME BASIS WITH KARL.

9) She participates in mountain biking and dances ballet.

10) You got the part about Karl, right?

11) She's only 18. What. Even.

GEORGIA MAY JAGGER & NYLON

2011-03-21T09:38:00.002-04:00

Bloody love her. She looks BEAUTIFUL in the recent February 2011 issue of Nylon. Clearly, she inherited Mick's lips and Jerry Hall's hair. AND SHE'S ONLY A YEAR OLDER THAN ME. NO FAIR. She recently teamed up with Hudson Jeans to create a few looks for the brand, and I must say they are all fabulous. Can't wait to see more of her.

KATE MOSS & LV

2011-03-14T10:33:00.004-04:00

This might be considered "old news" in the haute couture world but I still can't get over how AMAZING she looked. In fact, the whole Louis Vuitton A/W 2011 show and collection was simply amazing. VINTAGE ELEVATORS. BELLBOYS WHO OPEN THE ELEVATORS. MAIDS. DID I MENTION ELEVATORS? I've never been so obsessed with a show before. Donning handcuffs, pantless outfits, leather pieces, lace, lovely sheer, and masks placed on chauffeur hats, the models were certainly envied by all. Do yourself a favor and watch it if you haven't already, you won't regret it.

COVETING: ASHISH SPIDERWEB TIGHTS

2011-03-10T10:17:00.001-05:00

I know what you're thinking: DEVON. THESE ARE NOT HOUSE OF HOLLAND TIGHTS. WHAT GIVES. And the answer is: I know! Don't hate! I've been an avid Ashish (say that five times fast) fan ever since his debut collection for Topshop a year ago. He never seizes to amaze me with his mixture of exuberant sportswear and high-octane glamour. Anyone who combines high wasted sequin trousers, a silk kimono, and a sailor hat gets a big A+ in my gradebook of FIERCENESS. He himself said his design signatures are "sequins, glamour, sportswear and more sequins." How can I not be obsessed with him? Trick question. I definitely am.

Anyway, THE TIGHTS. Words cannot express how incredible these are. With the almost sheer nude color mixed with the piercing black, it actually looks like there's a spiderweb on the knees. So amazingly unique. Who wouldn't want spiderwebs on their knees? Probably chavs. But that's a whole other issue. If anyone knows anything about how to purchase these, PLEASE drop me a comment. You will be thanked with cyber-hugs and cyber-scones.

He debuted these beauties at his A/W 11 show at London Fashion Week.

LIVELY

2011-03-08T16:13:00.008-05:00

Honestly all, I'm still bitter over the fact that Gossip Girl isn't coming back until mid-April. I NEED A WEEKLY DOSE OF THE DAPPER CHUCK BASS TO FUNCTION PROPERLY. But anyway, I like Blake Lively in this. A lot. It reminds me of Portman in Black Swan when her evil split-personality twin swan turns around in the mirror to look at her good yet crazy real swan self (you just got INCEPTIONED). But one cannot fathom the immensity of the HUH I'm thinking - is this really a Chanel ad for the Mademoiselle handbags? It seems so...un Chanel-like...even though Karl himself shot it. Whatever.

Back to Blake: there are times when I want to berate her, and there are times I want to be her. And right now, I want to BE HER. If I had the opportunity to wear that bag and furry jacket anywhere -well, anywhere people would not point and laugh and think why a teenage girl is wearing haute couture while buying tomato bisque at the supermarket- I would don it IN A SECOND. The ad is so elegant, so ladylike, and so flattering. Thumbs up. Excellent move by Chanel.

GALLIANO

2011-03-02T11:31:00.006-05:00

Designers, fashion editors, and critics around the world are trying to contextualize -even justify- how fashion bighouse Dior designer, John Galliano, could possibly go on a disgusting racist tirade in a Paris cafe. "I'm genuinely shocked," "I'm 0.2% surprised," "Dumbass of the Year - 2011, and it's only March" and "Who's that?" were some of the comments my friends said when I brought the topic up within the past few days. Honestly, I don't think I can say anything that hasn't been said - his comments were absolutely vile and I felt the urge to shower after watching the video. He let us, his loving admirers, down. Will I end up forgiving him someday? Probably. Everyone deserves a second chance. But this will take longer then an average predicament.

So, what do all of you think of this situation? Was his firing justified? Etc? Would love to hear your thoughts, fellow bloggers.

HOUSE OF HOLLAND A/W 2011

2011-03-01T08:42:00.007-05:00

Hey all - sorry for the short absence! I went on a mission trip to New Orleans and built some homes, so I think you can forgive me. I ate a lot of crawfish and did some intense zydeco dancing. It was really fun. Anyway, BACK TO REALITY. You can imagine how much I was swooning over Henners' new collection. I mean really...CAN YOU PLEASE SHIP SOME OVER TO AMERICA? US YANKEES LOVE YOU. The looks below are some of the ones I loved the most. Also, check out the exclusive video. You shall not be disappointed. PS - happy March!

HORSEY BY EUNGI KIM

2011-02-16T09:18:00.004-05:00

'Horsey' by Eungi Kim from Korea is one of the shortlisted design entries from more than 3000 participants in the Seoul Cycle Design Competition 2010. It's organized in collaboration with the Seoul Design Foundation. To put it simply, it's an attachable bicycle accessory that instantly transforms your bike into a cute little horsey! I NEED ONE IN MY LIFE.

According to Kim, "the 'horsey' package includes wooden ornaments (horsey shape body), metal parts, and screws. The manual is very simple so that anyone can easily arrange it according to one’s needs. Through this 'horsey' project, I wanted to give a special look to bicycles so that people would care about cycling not only as transportation but also as a lovely pet."

POM POM EARRINGS

2011-02-14T13:17:00.006-05:00

My boy over at House of Holland recently debuted these beauties via the HOH website. All I can say is, WOW. SS11 MARABOU EARRINGS! Is there something Henry cannot do? Ok ok I'll be frank...for the £100 price tag I would never buy it. But how can you not smile when you gaze upon the pom pom beauty? They come in blue, green, and purple. Here are some looks of stylish lads and lassies working the earrings:

Model 1: GUUUURLLL where did you get those earrings?! I need them in my life...right now...

Model 2: Psh. These old things? I got them on the House of Holland website. They're SO fetch. Is it just me, but do my star trousers look like your star dress...

The models.

The ladies of Grazia.

Henners himself!

RODARTE FOR OPENING CEREMONY

2011-02-10T18:15:00.005-05:00

Yes. This is my favorite high-street designer collaboration in a long time. Tulle, varsity jackets, sunglasses, SILK CARDIGANS. If it weren't so bloody expensive I'd buy the whole collection.

HOLLAND VS WANG

2011-02-08T17:38:00.007-05:00

I found this video extremely fascinating and entertaining. Not only because Henry Holland and Alexander Wang are my favorite designers, but it shows that designers can interact and have good fun with each other without the fear of jealousy or competition. I want to see more designers interviewing each other in the future! Ideal pairing: Gareth Pugh and Jeremy Scott. If you have a spare two minutes, take a look...

ENGAGED

2011-02-03T17:55:00.004-05:00

I will start referring to them as the world's most fashionable/coolest/best couple. Congrats are certainly in order! I can't even begin to imagine how many best dressed awards their children will win...

KATE MOSS: THE FACE MAGAZINE

2011-01-30T16:00:00.004-05:00

Moss' first fashion photographs were for the July 1990 issue of The Face magazine. Photographed by the late Corinne Day, Moss was only 16. Absolutely stunning.

MISCELLANEOUS

2011-01-25T12:36:00.010-05:00

Sequin top: Purchased at Another Man's Treasure, Jersey City. Silk top: Taken from my mom's closet, unknown. Skirt: American Apparel.

I was cleaning out my computer today after my semester exams and stumbled upon these old blog photos (among MANY others). Who doesn't love reminiscing about the past? These were some that caught my eye. Even though my camera is working at 1% life right now (it's seven years old!), I'm hoping to get a new camera really soon. That, or I'll "borrow" my dad's camera for awhile.

Silk dress: H&M. Tights: House of Holland. Bag: Marc by Marc Jacobs. Sandals and headscarf: vintage. Sunglasses: Ray Ban.

This is personally one of my favorite outfits. It's just so fun! It was also the perfect outfit to do robot dance moves while listening to Good Shoes/Futureheads/Franz Ferdinand/otherindiebands. The dress is very versatile - it can easily be pulled off as either a mini dress or tucked in for a flowy shirt.

Tea dress: BCBGMAXAZRIA. Necklaces and headband: All from my grandmother. Tights: House of Holland.

ANOTHER REASON TO PRAISE THE SKY SPIRITS - HENRY HOLLAND (side note: DAMN. My hair was really really really really long). I can honestly say these are the best pair of tights I own. Because, honestly, who doesn't 'wanna party' (and by party I mean inviting friends over to watch Doctor Who and eat cheese...I'm clearly cool). Anyway, I think I'll do some more computer cleaning in the future - who knows what else I'll find!

PS - I'm officially halfway through senior year! I'm going to watch the complete series of Fawlty Towers tonight to celebrate.

ANN-SOFIE BACK

2011-01-24T12:17:00.001-05:00

The cool people at Ann-Sofie Back sent me some press emails this weekend that included a photo of this AMAZING body manipulation ring. I remember seeing something similar at Topshop a few months back, but definitely not as large and believable. If you look below, Back also has a collar version (CRAZY!) and some wearable earrings and headbands.

Although I doubt I can pull any of these items off, I still find them extremely creative and fun, and definitely praise Back for being a non-conformist when it comes to making jewelry. Check out her website here.

CÉLINE SS 2011

2011-01-20T14:02:00.007-05:00

Slightly obsessed. Céline would make skateboarding cool.

ASHISH/TOPSHOP: SPRING 2011

2011-01-18T13:55:00.000-05:00

I really love Ashish. I really really do. But there's something about his new collection for Topshop that I HATE. It looks really cheap, badly retro, and overall a big disappointment (is this the Ashish that created those LEGENDARY animal wedges for Topshop a few years ago?). Quite literally a feast for the eyes, I suppose I just don't want gastronomical delights on my clothing. I guess I'll have to wait for his next collection. Am I being too harsh?

PORTMAN: MISS DIOR CHERIE

2011-01-13T17:36:00.005-05:00

I'm terribly picky when it comes to perfumes. Like - REALLY PICKY. So when I (read: my mom) bought Miss Dior Cherie for me on a Virgin flight to Heathrow two years ago, I was like eeeeehhhh (seriously, I was so jet-lagged I couldn't use vowels correctly for three days). But alas, it became my favorite perfume ever. I wear it whenever I go out. Really. So when I heard back in December that Natalie Portman was the new face of it, I did happy robot dance moves around my house. And the photos certainly don't disappoint. She looks so coquettish and glowing. And the outfit...WHOOPS NO OUTFIT SHE'S TOPLESS, just wearing a black bowtie in her hair. Gorgeous all around. Who else wishes to look just like her? *raises hand sheepishly*

PHOTO ARCHIVE: KATE MOSS AT TOPSHOP NYC OPENING, APRIL 2 2010

2011-01-11T12:23:00.004-05:00

EMMANUELLE ALT

2011-01-10T09:39:00.004-05:00

I would like to take this time to commend Vogue Paris (or French Vogue, whatever you fancy calling it) on their outstanding choice of Emmanuelle Alt. She will make and incredible editor-in-chief. The former Fashion Director will fit in more than nicely, I reckon. Carine will still be greatly missed, though. Control ALT delete. What do you all think of this decision?

FROCK ME

2011-01-07T11:05:00.014-05:00

One of my favorite shows is Frock Me. Unfortunately, I can't watch it as much as I like, as it doesn't show frequently in America. For those who don't know about it, it's an amazing British fashion and music show hosted by three absolutely incredible people: it girl Alexa Chung, my future husband Henry Holland, and style scout Gemma Cairney. The premise usually revolves around current style trends and their relationship with both fashion and music. Each show features one particular theme and the guests, interviews, and music relate to it. Some previous themes included:

Gothic horror

Logos, Slogans, and Labels

Underwear as Outwear

Americana

Anti-fashion

Although the last episode aired last summer, it's highly speculated a new season will debut to premiere for Spring/Summer 2012 fashion. With their Frocktactics, hopefully they'll be back sooner than that. Here's some pictures from the series:

The fabulous hosts: Chung, Holland, Cairney.

Return From the Dead...With Style

2011-01-03T13:16:00.008-05:00

OH HEY. REMEMBER ME? YOU DON'T? *awkward pause* Well mates, terribly sorry about the long hiatus. College applications caught up with me, and I had to write a copious amount of essays and other fun (read: tiring/somewhat annoying/really really tiring) college stuff. But I'm done now! So high five to me! Hopefully I'll make up for some lost time and post more frequently now...as I have to wait until April 1st for college decisions (read: I'm hyperventilating until April 1st). So, to get back into blogging mode, here are some recent collections made for Topshop by Ashish and Meadham Kirchhoff. Really love them both, and I'm very jealous of a friend who got some of them on sale at the New York Topshop.

Ashish (inspiration: Parisian lifestyle)

Meadham Kirchhoff (inspiration: gothic lolita)

Holiday

2010-11-19T20:15:00.006-05:00

I'm heading off to a wonderful vacation in Florida for the Thanksgiving holiday (because, obviously, nothing shows the American spirit like napping under palm trees and trying to get somewhat of a tan. I'm sensing Thanksgiving dinner in an Olive Garden? JK. No seriously...), so blog posts will resume next Friday! Until I get back, enjoy gazing upon this gorgeous House of Holland cucumber. ISN'T SHE A STUNNER?! Have a nice week P&C Nation!

House of Holland Loves the Cities

2010-11-17T08:40:00.009-05:00

New York City, London, Paris, Hollywood. No, it's not a list of places I've traveled this week (hardy har har). Rather, it's the four cities that Henry Holland has decided to showcase for his new and FABULOUS capsule collection. If you've been a reader of this blog for awhile (which I humbly thank you for reading despite my copious amount of Doctor Who Who-mor) you know that House of Holland is my favorite designer ever, and that I've built a shrine dedicated to Henners in my closet. So naturally, when I first saw this collection of jumpers and hosiery, I fainted. On my cat Purrfessor. While humming the orchestral Doctor Who theme song (SEE I DID IT AGAIN HOW DO YOU TOLERATE ME). These pieces really show off the international standpoint of House of Holland quite well. If the jumpers weren't £250 each, I would easily buy them all. I sense a Christmas present in the near future? But the tights are a great £15 each! Overall, very very very impressed. What's not to like?

Hamish Bowles: Interview

2010-11-15T09:16:00.008-05:00

I stumbled across this interview in Interview Magazine recently, and it is glorious. If there's any man I admire in the fashion world, it's Hamish. Pure. Swag. I long for a day in the future that I can meet him (sneaking into the Vogue offices? Stalking him in Siena? Whatevs). Not to mention, I ran around my house doing the cha cha when he made a guest appearance on Gossip Girl. Please note that this entire interview is credited to the respectful journalist and Interview Magazine. Hope you all enjoy it as much as I did:

Hamish Bowles is not of the opinion that fashion is best appreciated on a short-term memory. For more than 30 years, the British style maharishi and longtime European editor at large at American Vogue has been amassing one of the richest and rarest collections of couture on the planet. He started as a child in London, picking up costume pieces from thrift stores—a compulsion that quickly turned into pure obsession by the time he studied fashion at Central Saint Martins College. His various jobs at top-tier fashion magazines hasn’t helped things either. His trove ranges from the 1850s all the way to last season, with heavy doses of Balenciaga, Galanos, Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, and a number of rare-bird couturiers you’ve probably never heard of. Today, a vast majority of Bowles’s boon—upward of 2,000 pieces—is housed in a storage unit in Long Island City, New York, where the collector can be found giddily digging through racks of Montanas, Molyneuxs, and Malandrinos, wearing white gloves and gasping in delight at his own finds. He’s currently at work organizing, documenting, and cataloging the entire collection, with plans to one day create his own foundation. In the meantime, Bowles remains ever busy curating costume shows in his mind.

What is the latest piece that you’ve collected?
I have Tom Ford, Gucci, Saint Laurent, McQueen, and odd pieces that I’ve just acquired because I happened to have come across them and felt they have some historical resonance. A case in point that I’ll never forget is this Catherine Malandrino dress. After 9/11, at the first party that people actually felt that they could go to, all the women were wearing Catherine Malandrino’s American Flag dress.

Oh, that’s great.
It was such a defining moment. I just happened to come across one of those dresses in an Upper East Side thrift store recently. I acquired it because it encapsulated a very precise moment. Actually, I have some other patriotic dresses. I have a red, white, and blue piqué Fourth of July evening dress that Trigère made in the mid-’60s. Basically, I am acquiring things for the exhibition in my head. I am thinking, Well, this would be a great dialogue with that.

How brilliant.
I have a variant of that piece that was made for Princess Liliane of Belgium, who was a woman of impeccable chic and glamour. She had her own intervention in the process, because she used to collect exotic Indian and Far Eastern brocades, often metallic brocades, and this is a fabric which she might have presented to him to have made into a variant of that white satin jacket . . . So you see, I have the entire history of that piece!

It’s astounding that you know the name of every piece, where you got it, and how you got it. There’s a great story attached to everything.

The story can be so much the exciting part of the whole process. There are designers who I absolutely love. I really love Jacques Fath. Before our meeting today I spent the morning with Bettina Graziani, who was Fath’s muse in the late ’40s and early ’50s. There’s an iconic Henry Clarke picture of her where she’s wearing this white satin Saharienne jacket, very tightly belted. She said, “That was a man’s army shirt that Jacques brought back from a trip to New York. I remember him in the studio wearing the shirt himself and belting it really, really tight, and sort of saying, ‘Let’s do this in satin.’"

So [fashion] is really a lifelong passion for you.
A lifelong passion, yes. How old am I now . . . It’s been 30 years of collecting. These things do accumulate, even if you’re just buying one or two things a month. I’m afraid rather more now. My long-suffering parents had to spend family holidays going around the costume museums of Great Britain—one in Manchester, one in Bath, one at Castle Howard in Yorkshire . . . That’s how I wanted to spend my time.

You have some of your collection in London and Paris, and obviously a huge amount here in New York. They’re so fragile. I know with the few things that I have, just to be conscious of bugs, to take very good care of them . . .
That’s the stuff of my nightmares—I mean, bugs and dampness and all those things. Ask the Brooklyn Museum or the Met. Costumes and fashion are the most difficult things to store and the most demanding in terms of conservation.

You must have a zillion requests from museums.
It has gotten to the point that I’m considering setting up a foundation. Obviously, I am thinking about things that would be appropriate for [“The Model as Muse: Embodying Fashion”] at the Met this spring, because I have dresses that were worn by Marion Morehouse in the ’20s for Steichen photographs, and by Veruschka for Penn in ’60s pictures, and Sunny Harnett. One is constantly making those discoveries. Then I have things that Kate Moss and Linda Evangelista wore. When Linda dyed her hair red to accent it, Karl Lagerfeld created this vivid Lypsinka orange-Lurex Chanel couture suit for her. I think the idea of being able to lend things to museum shows and seeing them reach a wider public and seeing them mounted and displayed from different curators’ points of view is really an exceptionally rewarding part of having assembled this collection. But I’d certainly love to do a show and curate pieces in the way that I’ve assembled them, and made the connections in my mind.

Check out the rest of the interview here.

Look of the Week: Emma Watson

2010-11-12T11:49:00.006-05:00

Everything about her look is absolutely wonderful. It almost makes me want to take out my kitchen scissors and chop off my hair. Such, such class. No clothing avada kedavra will be used here MUHAHAHA.

Battle of the Temporary Tattoos

2010-11-08T17:19:00.005-05:00

I never thought a trend that I wore to footie games in second grade would make it big, but I guess I'm wrong. Both Chanel and Betsey Johnson (as well as Louis Vuitton, but body art) have come out with temporary tattoos within the year, with designs ranging from the company's signature logos to chic chains and florals.

Chanel's designs are by far more elegant. Remember: Chanel makes accessories, and accessories. From a company that also makes signature soccer balls, golf bags, and fishing polls (the bike is to die for), I wasn't completely surprised when they released these bad boys early this year. I happen to fancy them quite a lot surprisingly, but with prices starting at $70, it's ridiculous for me to consider buying them. Unless someone wants to buy them for me... *wink wink* *nudge nudge* I feel a Christmas present in the making!

Betsey does a great job in incorporating her eccentric style into these tattoos. I'm actually surprised she hasn't done it sooner! There is strong usage of rhinestones, bling, thorns, skulls, vines, etc. However, it reminds me too much of the dreaded Ed Hardy (epitome of...what's the word...trash) brand, but redeems itself with the low price of $25 for five sheets.

So blog friends, which one do you fancy more? Or do you think Betsey and Chanel are completely mental for creating such items?

Kate Moss for Topshop: The Final Collection

2010-11-02T17:42:00.005-04:00

I'm in a somber mood. And if you read the title of my post, you know exactly why. Not even the Time Warp dance can cheer me up. But instead of me ranting on about how I will miss her collaborations, and that everything she touches turns into gold and sequins, I will leave you with this behind-the-scenes video that beautifully sums up her last collection and tenure at Topshop. One comment though: I'm so happy she decided to "bring back" her top ten designs to once again be available to purchase. My eyes ballooned with joy when I saw the infamous panther dress for sale (translation: people no longer have to scavenge Ebay for used $500 variations). Kate, I salute you.

Maura Kelly

2010-10-31T15:24:00.007-04:00

Never mind freaky Halloween costumes and jury duty. It seems the scariest and most repulsive thing in the world, according to Maura Kelly, is a fat person. Unless you've been living a hermit lifestyle or don't have internet, you've probably heard about the controversial article she wrote for Marie Claire's US website, titled "Should Fatties get a Room? (Even on TV?)" It addresses the CBS television sitcom Mike and Molly, about an overweight couple who meet and fall in love at Overeaters Anonymous meetings. Here's an excerpt from her article:

"To be brutally honest, even in real life, I find it aesthetically displeasing to watch a very, very fat person simply walk across a room – just like I'd find it distressing if I saw a very drunk person stumbling across a bar or a heroine addict slumping in a chair."

Television characters Mike and Molly, the subject of her fetish.

To be brutally honest, I'd rather be obese than daft, which Maura Kelly, a recovering anorexic, clearly is. And you know what else I find atheistically displeasing? Incorrect grammar. Lets spell heroin correctly next time, Maura. But here's what I really took away from the article, as someone fascinated with our current society: Have we gotten to a point where the size of one's body and shape are such overwhelming factors in determining a person's worth? Are people really as ignorant and shallow as Maura? How the HELL did Marie Claire think it was acceptable to publish this (excuse my obscenity)? Am I going mental?

What's YOUR opinion on this situation?

Wildfox Couture Fall Lookbook

2010-10-26T21:48:00.005-04:00

I've never shied away from declaring my love for Wildfox Couture...throughout my tenure as a blogger it's safe to say I've done more than a dozen posts about why it's the perfect brand for top models and pink aficionados alike. This season the girls have stayed true to their roots and created another AMAZING collection that successfully incorporates Christine O'Donnell witch malarkey into baggy sweaters. Some pieces are currently being sold for a short time at Urban Outfitters (much to my dismay). Need I say more?

Obsession: n.
Compulsive preoccupation with a fixed idea or an unwanted feeling or emotion, often accompanied by symptoms of anxiety. (syn: Wildfox Couture)

A little sexy secretary + a little maitre d' + a splash of Lohan style = WILDFOX.

Clueless

2010-10-24T20:15:00.008-04:00

Robber- "Now uh...down on the ground. Face down. C'mon!"

Cher- "Oh, no. You don't understand. This is an Alaia."

Robber- "An a-what-a?"

Cher- "It's like a TOTALLY important designer."

Robber- "And I will totally shoot you in the head. Get down!"

Best quote ever. Hands down. Brought a new meaning to "suffering for fashion."

Lanvin for H&M: Preview

2010-10-21T10:42:00.005-04:00

Here come the ladies in black. H&M, you sly dog you. The first photo for the new Lanvin collaboration has finally been released, much to the delight of the oodles of fashion forward women and men throughout the world. H&M previously blurred out the clothes in previous photo teasers to keep everyone on their toes, and I can honestly say it was worth the wait. Hannelore Knuts, Jane Schmitt, Tati Collitar (who, regrettably, I thought was Posh for a second), and Natasha Poly look beautiful in the Gothic and BLACK inspired looks (Gareth Pugh is clapping feverishly somewhere in the world). One shouldered puff dresses, tuxedo tops, and velvet suits will be dominate throughout the collection. I'm personally glad they incorporated Schmitt into the collection; after all, Lanvin is a label for high class ladies and older women, not for teenage girls with some pocket money to spend.

I'm sure that H&M will be a frenzy-zoo-Cinco-de-Mayo-fiesta on the release date (November 23rd), so I'll personally be satisfied if I can snatch any item.

Tom Ford - Fall 2010 Eyewear

2010-10-18T11:07:00.004-04:00

What instantly came to my mind when I saw his new eyewear collection was eccentric shapes and mod-like designs. Freja Beha Erichsen and Nicholas Hoult were on hand to add an air of sensuality to the shoot. Thick frames, sheer lenses, and tortoise shell backbones are also shown throughout the collection. The photos were shot by Mr. Ford himself!

Hey there, handsome.

The crows also created a sense of intrigue and mystery adding on to the dapperness of the models. I certainly thought back to Edgar Allen Poe's eerie short stories. Such a fantastic collection.

House of Holland - Blackberry

2010-10-11T14:43:00.004-04:00

Just when I thought my love for HOH couldn't get any deeper...it has. With the release of his new Blackberry cover, Henry Holland did not disappoint. He also designed come limited addition backplates for your Blackberry's coolness.

Although the covers and backplates only support the Blackberry Torch and Bold at the moment, I'm sure plenty of us are crossing our fingers to have other variations in the future (iPhone, Blackberry Tour, etc, anyone?).

Pippa Brooks

2010-10-05T08:33:00.010-04:00

I saw this interview in the Guardian (dated back a few years ago) and I just loved it. Pippa has been a favorite of mine for years now. Hopefully I'll look that good in my forties! Has anyone had the opportunity to get to her and her husband's shop, M. Goldstein? I'm dying to go.

Describe your style.

I do like that very British, dusty old tweedy thing, but I really love quite trashy things at the same time. Kind of Miss-Marple-meets-trash.

Do you always roll your hair?
I roll it quite often - I grow my hair so I can put it up in different ways. I have to wear lipstick every day, even on the school run - I feel really naked without it. I love the perfect pink or the perfect red. This is YSL and has just been discontinued. I'm bereft. I keep looking for it in House of Fraser stores.

Has your style changed since becoming a mother?

I've always gone to car-boot sales or second- hand shops. I've always loved old knitwear, and I still do. I'm 41 now and I don't think I'm particularly appropriate for my age, but I think that's a good thing. I don't wear really short skirts with bare legs any more because I think knees can look old. It's just obvious stuff. But I think you should grow old as disgracefully as you like - if you want to wear something, then you should, and I certainly do.

Tell me about your tattoos.

There is my pin-up girl on my arm, I had it done in Los Angeles 11 years ago. I had wanted one for such a long time but it was a combination of circumstances that I had it done on that day. I have a pair of cherries on my neck - I think they are a sexy fruit. I love strawberries as well. They are perfect - naughty.

Are you happy with the way you look?

Yes, I enjoy getting older. You know what to play down and what to play up. You get good at yourself.

Who influences the way you dress?

Faye Dunaway in Bonnie and Clyde. I like her hair colour, and the satin shirts worn with tailored tweed skirts. I love that look. I love Angie Bowie too, not now, but in the 1970s - oh, my God - really fantastic!

Have you been misjudged because of your appearance?
I don't think I dress outrageously at all, but I do get people who react to the way I dress. In Paris, where people are supposed to be really chic, I have been laughed at in the street. They don't like it if you are a bit off, or garish. People often think if you wear a roll in your hair that you are into rockabilly, but I wouldn't like to think that I was looking really 1950s. I like mixing it up more than that. I like things that jar.

What's the first thing you notice about other people's appearance?
I don't think you should judge people on their clothing because you just never know. I love to see people who make an effort and have a real look. But I think it's rarer and rarer to see people like that.

Final thoughts.

I love a tank top, a cardigan or a wrinkled stocking, but I think you have to balance that with a high heel or something a little bit slutty, otherwise you look as if you are about to get on your bike and solve a mystery or something.

So true.
x

Ashish and Topshop

2010-09-27T19:50:00.004-04:00

These are shoes directly sent from baby Jesus. I would actually do ANYTHING to have these. LIFE IS NOT FAIR.

Clémence Poésy

2010-09-21T16:25:00.006-04:00

I have a major girl-crush on Clémence and I am not ashamed to say it. Surprisingly, I knew her before she joined the cast of Gossip Girl this year (no no, not from Harry Potter). I constantly found her in spreads for NYLON (dating back from 2006) and other trendy magazines, and I have grown to love her unique sense of Parisian style. A few of my favorite styles of her are below.

40 Day Dream

2010-09-17T16:20:00.004-04:00

Early in the summer I was privileged enough to be photographed by my good friend Kat at her house. The setting was just perfect; I honestly believe her backyard in the size of Herefordshire. We finally settled on a spot nestled by a bunch of trees and shrubbery. She also brought out some awesome plastic purple flowers to add to the scenery. It was so cool actually doing a "photoshoot" and seeing what a photographer does; those camera lenses are so heavy!

Top: Vintage Oscar de la Renta. Skirt: American Apparel. Throw-over: Vintage (Beacon's Closet).

I love the blurred effect.

Overall, it was an absolutely amazing and fun experience! Kat is my homegirl. Lots of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros were played.

Jimmy Choo and Ugg

2010-09-15T16:57:00.007-04:00

Hey, these are some pretty shagadelic moon boots!! I think I can pair these with my hot pink astronaut suit next time I fly off to Mars, so I can be the most stylish astro-lady in the universe. Oh wait. Hold up. You're telling me these AREN'T moon boots? People are expected to wear these in PUBLIC? My word. You don't say. And they are made by...Jimmy Choo? WHAT HAS THE WORLD COME TO. The fringe...the zebra...the hot glue-gun studs...these are actually horrifying to look at, and they need to go away now. (Alright, lets get the cliche Ugg jokes over with...UGGH!! They are so UGGly!!) Don't get me wrong. I loooooove Choo and all of that couture shoe goodness. But these "boots" look like they were made for the dancers of Boy George's comeback tour. They look like melted marshmallows. And evil pillows. And metal shish kabobs. I'm going to publicly chastise anyone I see on the street wearing these. So readers, what do you think of these moon boots? Fill out the poll below.

House of Holland Runway - LS/F 2010

2010-09-14T18:16:00.007-04:00

If you all know me well by now, I am obsessed with all things Henry Holland (so if you didn't, you're new to the blog. Helloooo new readers!). The graphic shirts, the uber expensive denim, the marriage-worthy tights, everything. So it's no wonder that I am absolutely obsessed with the latest collection. It's the holy grail of fashion to put it into simple words. I WANT IT ALLLLLLL. *cries living on a student budget* Three comments: 1. I'm on the lookout for those signature letter tshirts. They are to die for. The bees knees. Shagadelic. Which one is better: CTFO or FFS? Oh hell, they both are perfect. I'll buy both. 2. THE TIGHTS. *faints* I have never seen such beautiful tights since his tights collection in spring 2010 (hardy har har). I love the fact that he added much more color - turquoise and purple are brilliant additions (and look amazing with a short skirt and chunky sweater...side pony optional). 3. I THINK I'M IN LOVE WITH INANIMATE MATERIALS. Ok so let's see the collection...but first...let's wave hello to Mr. Holland...

G'DAY HENRY. YOU LOOK SMASHING AS USUAL.

Coach Poppy - The Sequins

2010-09-12T14:32:00.005-04:00

I'll tell you this right now: I have really really really hated Coach for years now. I find their designs boring, old, and out-dated. I cringe whenever I see a eleven year old carrying one of their signature wristlets (although, to concede, I still own a beautiful extra-large satin wristlet given to me by a good friend years ago). So when I got a press email from them a few days ago about the Poppy collection, I naturally LOLed. But when I opened the attachments and saw what they were hiding, I almost choked on my water from unexpected surprise. What I saw were beautiful and youthful designs, with a special focus on overlapping and colorful sequins. To put it simply, they are amazing. My favorites include the mini backpack and the disco crossbody bag, which has recently been seen on Kate Middleton (!). They will certainly be on my shopping list as I continue my search for fall handbags (side note-if I see another LV Speedy 30 or Neverfull PM bag, I'm actually going to go mental. Can anyone suggest a mental institution just in case?). I highly encourage you to check out their Poppy website: here.

Fashion's Night Out 2010

2010-09-11T15:54:00.003-04:00

I think it's safe to say a fabulous time was had by all in NYC last night.

Missoni for Converse

2010-09-10T16:44:00.002-04:00

With the success of their spring 2010 collection, once again Missoni and Converse (erm, Chuck Taylor) have teamed up to create a new line of high-top shoe essentials for the fall. The second picture, shown below, was leaked to the press in early August. Although I was rather optimistic about the collaboration, there's just something I find boring and bland (even from the last collection) with every shoe. What do you all think of the first fall design and spring collection? Would love to hear your thoughts on this topic.

Spring 2010 collection:

Fall 2010 collection:

iPad couture

2010-09-09T16:25:00.004-04:00

This past summer, designers have taken a great liking to creating a quality case for the ever luxurious iPad. Everyone from the likes of Mulberry to Louis Vuitton have already come out with a case or cover. After some research, here are the ones I particularly liked (even though I don't own an iPad, nor have plans too):

Marc by Marc Jacobs

Dooney and Bourke

Oscar de la Renta

Louis Vuttion

Here, Kitty Kitty

2010-09-08T13:06:00.003-04:00

Fact: I really really love Hello Kitty. Fact: I really really love Doc Marten. So when I saw these Sanrio for Doc Marten boots on the NYLON website I actually ran around my entire house singing Born Free (out of happiness, of course). They're rad, fabulous, and downright cool. They basically made my entire week.

Diesel: Be Stupid

2010-09-07T13:45:00.002-04:00

The greatest ad campaign of the year. I loved seeing Pixie Geldof in a few.

Joe and Duke

2010-09-06T18:31:00.011-04:00

I found this interview on Slutever recently and it was the GREATEST interview I have even seen (all credit/material, including the opening, goes to the interviewer): Meet Joe and Duke, 8 year old identical twins and two of the sweetest, most adorable kids on earth! When they’re not busy learning how to read or tie their shoes or whatever it is 8 year olds do, Joe and Duke spend their time chillin’ at the George and Dragon pub in east London, necking shots of apple juice and just generally being cool. They’re also budding fashion icons. To date they’ve been in a Stella McCartney GapKids campaign, were photographed by Nick Knight as part of his 100 Portraits series for the 30th anniversary of i-D, and were recently shot by Mert and Marcus for Love. Imagine where they’ll be when they reach the double digits. Probably editing Vice Style. Joe and Duke’s parents are the amazing Pippa Brooks and Nathaniel Lee Jones, who together run M.Goldstein, a small shop/showroom in east London which sells punk art, antiques, human skulls and lots of other weird and amazing stuff. In the 90s Pippa co-ran the legendary, cult Soho boutique, Shop. She’s also a former Playboy bunny. Their family makes mine and your families look lame in comparison. The boys styled themselves for the interview, obvs.

So, do you guys pick out your own clothes?
Both: Yeah.

How would you describe your personal style?
Duke: Funky.
Joe: Girly.

Is it good or bad to look different?
Duke: It’s good, because if everyone wears the same thing then it’s boring and it just looks like everyone came out of the same house.

Should people be able to wear whatever they want? Is it right or wrong that people get made fun of because of their clothes?

Joe: It’s wrong, because everyone is allowed to have their own style. And because it’s mean. And because other people don’t decide how you look.

So true. Does anyone at your school ever get made fun of because of what they wear?

Joe: I do sometimes.

What do you say back?

Joe: Normally I say I don’t care, because it took me a long time to pick out this outfit!

What can you tell about a person by the clothes they wear?
Joe: Sometimes you can tell if they’re boring. Or funny.
Duke: You can tell if they are geeks.

What do geeks wear?
Joe: They have black eyes all over. And no teeth. Definitely no teeth.

Can you tell whether or not you would want to be friends with someone based on what they’re wearing?
Duke: Maybe.
Joe: Sometimes. It’s good when people wear clothes that make them feel good.

Do you guys share clothes?

Joe: No! Are you crazy?

Why not? You’re the same size.

Joe: Actually, he’s bigger. He’s one minute bigger.

Who is the best dressed person in the world?
Joe: Me!
Duke: No, not you Joe! Sometimes I like Lady Gaga’s clothes.

What do you want to be when you grow up?
Duke: I might want to be a geologist, and if I don’t get that than a biologist, and if I don’t get that than a weapon maker, and if I don’t get that than a waiter, and if I don’t get that than I’ll just be rich.
Joe: I might want to be a DJ. Or a fashion designer.

The Evolution of Kate Moss for Topshop

2010-09-05T15:02:00.007-04:00

When news broke a few days ago that Kate Moss will be ending her three year partnership with Topshop this fall, I of course was a little upset. However, I soon realized that three years of collaborating with a certain brand is an EXTREMELY long time (think: Target and H&M only allow one collection per designer), and that we should be fortunate enough to have had her for that long. With her last collection coming out on October, I'm pretty confident it will sell out quickly. However, Topshop is set to relaunch the most popular pieces from her previous collections throughout 2011, as well as smaller and basic items (slubby tshirts, denim shorts, etc), so they won't be completely Moss-less until early 2012. To reminisce about her years with the high street brand, I've chosen my three favorite collections to briefly write about:

Christmas 2008.

I don't think there has ever been one designer collaboration as influential as this one. Who could ever forget that infamous Tiger dress? (I've taken the liberty of looking online to see how much it goes for now, and the cheapest I've seen is $420...with holes in it.) The uses of black, lace, satin, and sequins made me want to sell my cat just to get my greedy hands on any one of those items.

Spring 2009.

I thought the double collaboration with Liberty of London was just brilliant. I still swoon over the poppy prints and suede Russian-inspired jackets. Kate said her main inspiration for this collection was the eighties, and I can definitely see why: the items are fun, fresh, funky and *thinks of f adjective* fabulous.

High Summer 2009.

Kate's exotic themed high summer collection reflected her journeys throughout the Middle East. It features numerous animal prints and generally follows blue zebra, coral, and swirl designs. It's rich with chiffon and silk, and all of the products exudes complete sexiness. Arguably my favorite KM item comes from this collection; the silk swirl blouse that's shown in the picture above.

Are you upset/curious/happy to see her collection bow out this fall? Do you have a favorite item from her numerous collections? Leave a comment in the box with your opinions.

T-post

2010-09-04T16:11:00.006-04:00

I originally got introduced to T-post a few months ago, but with my carelessness I forgot about this amazing product until now. The first "wearable" magazine comes from two avant-garde Swedish designers who pick one newsworthy story per month; they then illustrate it on the cover and write about it on the back.
Some previous issues:

Every 5 weeks they send you a new issue, right at your home. Sign me up!!! For more info, check out their website.

Sophy Robson - Elle Magazine

2010-09-04T14:27:00.005-04:00

I would certainly not mind getting a manicure from her. Check her out here.

Fluorescent adolescent.

2010-08-15T13:54:00.006-04:00

Do you have a certain clothing item that you want to wear all the time? For me, it's these tights. After much contemplation with my conscience if I should buy them or not, I figured I should buy myself a much deserved birthday present (my credit card, on the other hand, disagrees). Thus far, they have been paired with rompers, shorts, dresses, and just about everything in my closet. I LOVE THEM.

Romper and tights: House of Holland

A haiku: These tights make me beam. Henry Holland is a god. Refrigerator.

I think Agyness (with Miles) wears the reverse version very well. The black blazer and splash of leather matches nicely.

What's the one "go to" item in your closet?

Dev.

Inspiration - 12-19 August

2010-08-12T16:47:00.007-04:00

knock knock.

2010-05-20T15:34:00.003-04:00

Finally decided to give Target a try a few weeks ago, and ended up really liking it! This splatter Zac Posen dress really caught my eye, and I got a few other summer-worthy outfits (including the adorable floppy hat I keep wearing every day). I also have only about three weeks of courses left, so I'm VERY excited about that. Regular posting shall commence then.

Wearing: Black silk cover / vintage. Crossbody / Dooney & Bourke.

Dev.

LINKS

2010-05-06T20:32:00.001-04:00

Blushing Ambition
Diamond Canopy
Elle Victoire
F Blog
Fairydah
Fashion Daydreams
Fashion Pirates
Knight Cat
Le Flassh
Lovely Disco
Lulu and Your Mom
Mode D'Amour
Ria Michelle
Style Rookie
Stylorectic
What Is Reality Anyway?

THE NICE WEATHER SAGA.

2010-05-04T17:42:00.006-04:00

Mr. Weather seems to finally be acquiescing to give some warmness this week, so I found myself taking some old NYLONS outside for a read this afternoon before my trip to Starbucks for a cold passion tea. I can't honestly believe it's May! To think that in about six weeks my courses will done never seizes to put a big smile on my face.

I picked up this stunning silk dress (meh... for some perhaps a shirt) at H&M last week...it's part of the new "Garden" collection. I really like it because of the incredible amounts of tulle it has. And I love mah tulle. Of course, the House of Holland suspender tights decided to come out to play, as well as my Ray Bans, vintage sandals, and an old Coach head wrap. And then I realized if I wanted passion tea, I needed a bag, so an MJ nylon favorite came with me.

WAVE YOUR HANDS IN THE AIR LIKE YOU JUST DON'T CARE!! My attempt of an action shot gone awry. Oh well. I shall work on that.

Dev.

aye aye captain.

2010-04-29T16:13:00.007-04:00

I have a penchant for wearing jackets that resemble band leaders/captains/Libertines.

THESE LIZARD SHOES ARE SO COOL. I got them at Target (while visiting to see the Zac Posen collection) and they were just about the coolest things in the whole store. Oh em gee and by looking at this photo, I need a pedicure....
Wearing: Jacket, H&M. Top, Ella Moss. Skirt, American Apparel.
Dev.
Oh, and is anyone else super excited for the Topshop make-up collection?!

there's nothing like wearing a proper tea dress and mixing it with tights with duel meanings.

2010-04-20T15:11:00.005-04:00

I had quite the enjoyable weekend! Filled with Doctor Who (WHO ELSE MISSES DTENNZ?) and Starbucks visits of course. I'm counting down the days until school finishes for summer holiday, so I can finally sleep for more than six hours. *sleep deprivation is not cool* For part two of my House of Holland tights extravaganza (or, as my mom would say, part two of my hoar tights extravaganza), I decided to pull out my favourite pair. In typical Devon fashion I paired it with a Kate Middleton worthy tea dress and majestic headband. It evened it out somewhat, eh? The headband is one of the best in my limited collection, because my grandmother gave it to me and I later found it was Alexander McQueen. THANKS GRANDMA!

Wearing: BCBGMAXAZRIA "Tinkerbell" tea dress, thrifted Balmain shoes, 1940's gold sequin money purse and necklaces.

Another shot of the tights with a different outfit. I got a lot of emails asking where they could be located on the internet, so try here on the Asos website. They usually have one or more styles in stock.

Dev.

well i've been thieving, i stole the light from the dawn

2010-04-15T16:39:00.003-04:00

LONG TIME NO REAL OUTFIT POST, EH? I'll have you know I've been fully emerging myself with my studies (which often includes long breaks staring at Henry Holland and Rodarte designs with cupcakes), internships and coursework, so PLZ forgive my mediocre postings for the past weeks or so.

If you follow me on Twitter you probably remember my angst in locating the amazing House of Holland (aka my savior jezuz baby lovuh) Suspender tights I've had sleepless nights thinking about. BUT GUESS WHAT MATES. I FOUND THEM. AND THEY ARE ALL MINE. AND THEY ARE PERFECT. Even though my mom thinks they're a bit on the "hoarish" side...but what does she know. I also really love the airplane necklace I'm wearing! It's one of my favourites. I found it in a boutique on Portobello Road a few months ago and we have been inseparable every since.

Wearing: Vintage trilby, vintage cutout-sleeves (I think Valentino...the tag is cut off) from my mom's closet, and Sax Fifth Avenue boutique shoes.

Dev.

house of holland for levi

2010-04-14T16:51:00.003-04:00

these shoes are made for flaunting

2010-04-13T16:16:00.004-04:00

alexander wang - underwear as outwear

2010-04-13T16:07:00.004-04:00

stolen girlfriends club - safety pin dress

2010-04-12T17:30:00.004-04:00

christopher kane for topshop

2010-04-12T17:25:00.003-04:00

husam el odeh for acne

2010-04-11T19:30:00.002-04:00

mini dr marten

2010-04-10T18:21:00.002-04:00

wildfox couture x ss09

2010-04-10T14:51:00.002-04:00

house of holland tights

2010-04-09T12:55:00.002-04:00

vogue russia x minnie mouse

2010-04-09T12:39:00.002-04:00

lamé and ruffles

2010-04-07T15:22:00.011-04:00

"'You have been upgraded to upper class.' BEST. SENTANCE. EVER."

- Henry Holland (mahhh man)

Ate too many chocolates/candy/cookies. Tight pants. Have a good week?

XOXO

skirt: thrifted DVF. top: aa. jacket: unknown (vintage). sunglasses: ray ban. sandals: CHOOOO.

polaroid and shop lovin'

2010-03-31T20:38:00.005-04:00

I have been a naughty blogger lately. I know. But I have a good reason: school has been ridiculous lately! Too much coursework, tests, the whole shebang. That's why I decided to have some fun and take an outfit photo in Polaroid form! Hope you all have a fabulous week.

XOXO

shirt and pants: topshop / watch: D&G / hat: vintage / aviators: fendi

miss moss.

2010-03-29T18:22:00.002-04:00

Burberry//Vogue.

tattoo(s).

2010-03-25T19:02:00.002-04:00

Oh. My. God. WHY HAVEN'T I SEEN THIS PICTURE BEFORE?! (Marc Jacobs).

house of AWESOME.

2010-03-24T16:09:00.005-04:00

It's actually a problem how much of a Henry Holland fangirl I am.

get your freak on giles deacon.

2010-03-23T15:57:00.011-04:00

The lovely PR people at Giles Deacon gave me an exciting glimpse of his new collection, including some lookbook pieces and a behind-the-scenes looks from his recent show in Paris. Love it! What do you all think? And yes ... I have been a naughty/lazy blogger lately (school has gotten the worst of me), sorry!

XOXO

CONTACT

2010-03-12T19:37:00.027-05:00

Hello fellow readers! If you have questions, comments, business ideas, Albert Hammond Jr. stalking tips, or any other reason you would like to contact me, please use the following email.

theschoolbella@hotmail.com

the oxford cleric.

2010-03-10T17:16:00.014-05:00

Loving these oxfords from Topshop (they can never disappoint, eh?). I feel awfully tired today, so instead of attempting to write something witty/cool/fashion-forward I'm going to share the current songs that are heating up my iPod. What's on your playlist right now?

strokes - last nite

libertines - the ha ha wall

babyshambles - baddies boogie

kills - cheap and cheerful

cribs - hey scenesters!

arctic monkeys - fluorescent adolescent

fratellis - get ma nuts from a hippie

foxboro hottubs - stop drop and roll!!!

vampire weekend - a punk (got really mainstream but i still love it)

shirt // marc by marc jacobs. shorts // american apparel. tights // vintage. shoes // topshop. trilby // notting hill via portobello. sunglasses // grandmother's.

XOXO

blue sequins and straps.

2010-03-04T16:12:00.005-05:00

As you all know, I'm a sequin enthusiast. So I was extremely happy when I found these Unique by Topshop blue sequin harem pants for only £6, marked down from £95. AWESOME. I was also really lucky this weekend with some new MJ purchases. These are certainly keeping me happy with all of the school work that I have to do - who knew getting into university would be so hard? *sarcasm* Three papers, two tests, and lots of coursework due next week. Wish me luck.

shoes: sax fifth avenue boutique

XOXO

HAUTE $1100 POTATO SACK COUTURE.

2010-02-25T14:37:00.011-05:00

When my mom came home from vacation with a little surprise for me, I never would of guessed it would be this, to say the least. To make a long story short, her friend bought this lovely Oscar de la Renta number a few days beforehand, only realizing she hated it and vowed to dispose of it immediately. My mom, being the good mom she is, brought it back home for me, where I happily put it in the 'casual & exercise' section of my closet. Case closed. However, after a little more research, I not only found out this baby was $1100, but it was made of the same cloth of potato sacks. *facepalm* You could imagine my dismay as I was planning on jogging in it this morning. My little story begs this question - why would anyone want to buy something like this .... for THAT price? I reiterate, it's a lovely top, but REALLY? And now I ask you, faithful readers, if you were to buy something that costs $1100, what would it be?

straw hat: vintage

XOXO

YEEEEAH BAREFEET.

2010-02-19T20:02:00.004-05:00

I never seem to get away from wearing these stylish green (fake) glasses. I recall the time I got sun poisoning last year from a disastrous trip to Palm Beach and ended up falling in love with these ... mostly because they covered up my puffy eyes very well. Anyway, winter is going by so fast! I can't believe it's half way through February. AAANNNDDD London Fashion Week began today! Woohoo! Can't wait to see all of the fabulous shows.

top // topshop. skirt // vintage. sequin leggings // alexander mcqueen (*sob*).

ASHISH ANIMAL SHOES

2010-02-19T19:23:00.002-05:00

VINTAGE MOSS FOR TS

2010-02-18T21:41:00.003-05:00

TRIBAL CHUNG. WANG CHUNG?

2010-02-18T21:36:00.003-05:00

ABOUT ME

2010-02-12T19:17:00.032-05:00

Devon [Dev-IN] is a 17 year old style blogger. Much to popular belief, she is an American living within close proximity to New York City. Her blog, originally titled Adventures of a Catholic School Girl, was created in February 2009 as a creative outlet and procrastination center. It eventually became known as Plaid and Cigarettes in the autumn of that year while going through the typical teenage angst phase (she neither smokes or wears plaid, ironically).

She's a lover of sarcasm, being dignified, thought provoking conversations, and journalistic endeavors. She cites both David Tennant and Alex Kapranos as her boyfriends, and on some days Carl Barât also. She doesn't understand abbreviations teenagers use. Her favorite designer is Henry Holland and she recently built a shrine dedicated to him in her closet. The laws of physics do not apply to her. She manages time efficiently. The Monty Python lads are her greatest inspiration. She enjoys the company of her cat, Purrrfessor. Her favorite color is black.

And she loves you for reading.

THE ONE AND ONLY MS. TAVI.

2010-02-10T19:35:00.002-05:00

JAK & JIL'S POWERPUFF GIRL

2010-02-10T19:06:00.002-05:00

"JOGGING" ... WITH A SOFT J. ASHISH FOR TOPSHOP SS10.

2010-02-10T11:53:00.002-05:00

DIAMOND&CROC BIRKIN // $35000

2010-02-09T21:35:00.000-05:00

THE STYLE MAVEN HERSELF

2010-02-09T16:52:00.002-05:00

ASHISH // SPIKED DEMIN JACKET

2010-02-09T16:19:00.002-05:00

FASHIONABLE F-PACK???

2010-02-09T16:17:00.002-05:00

Dior.

VIEW FROM THE FRONT

2010-02-08T18:56:00.002-05:00

You can totally see me sitting with them. You know ....

SAFETY PIN SHIRT

2010-02-08T15:24:00.001-05:00

Anyone fancy buying this for me?

tfs

VOGUE AUSTRALIA // MARCH 2010

2010-02-07T14:19:00.005-05:00

Makes me want pink hair.

INTO THE GRUNGE.

2010-02-06T20:27:00.001-05:00

Oldies but goodies.

CHANEL WEDDING // FALL

2010-02-05T20:43:00.005-05:00

Stunning. I especially love the second design.

LIGHT IT UP.

2010-02-05T20:06:00.002-05:00

Riveting pictures of the day. Who loves the hair as much as me?

WHAT ACNE???

2010-02-05T20:04:00.005-05:00

ACNE SHOES SS '10.*faints*

Admit your feelings:
	Chanel! Absolutely whimsical! Oh wait how much do they cost...
	Betsey. She's too cute, and her tattoos are too.
	They're both kind of cute, really.
	LE SIGH. TEMPORARY TATTOOS.
	HEY. DON'T DISS TEMPORARY TATTOOS.
	Yuck.

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