Thursday, December 24, 2009

The difference a year can make...

I'm always completely astounded when I look back, whether it be something like a myspace message, tarnished with immaturity, or just a simple memory. I've been blogging for over a year now, though I'm not sure if that means anything to me. I don't feel as if I have reached some sort of significant point in time, but it gives me a minuscule sense of accomplishment. I wasn't sure that I would be able to keep it up.

On another note, being home has been a strange experience. I've been working 9+ hour days at Nordstrom, so I haven't had to deal with it all that much, but when I do have to... I don't even know. Being on break has been like reliving feelings of imprisonment and a thirst for independence. This unfortunate situation has not supplied me with an excess of holiday cheer.

Last night (Christmas Eve), I got off work around 6 and was greeted by my entire family in the car. The dysfunction was saturating the air so much that I could hardly breathe. We had decided to open gifts because my mother would be working in the morning. If I didn't feel like an outcast to begin with, the gifts I receive leave me questioning if anyone of my family members understand who I am. Instead of leaving it up to others, I need to be more assertive in suggesting gifts to be given to me. I'm sure I sound like an unappreciative brat and I may well be, but I can't help but to feel wasteful accepting gifts I do not want.

On this fine Christmas day, I've spent most of my time in bed. I slept in for the first time in months, which was a wonderfully indulgent experience. Since waking up, I've spent my time on the computer either watching movies/tv or reading my favorite blogs. I'm still wearing the same clothes I slept in. Isolating myself seems to be the only thing that will keep me sane. Dinner will be ready soon. Hopefully, I will have the strength to bear it.

Happy holidays.

Sunday, December 20, 2009

C.R.A.Z.Y.

About a week or so ago, I watched film called C.R.A.Z.Y.. The movie centered around a boy named Zac.
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Undeniably different from his brothers, Zac's sexulity was constantly questioned by himself and others. It takes him until young adulthood to finally accept that he is gay. Seeing him grow up through the Seventies -bell bottoms and all- and the inclusion of the idea that music is a powerful force, captured me. David Bowie changes lives, even in other countries. The relationship between Zac and his mother is one of understanding and love, causing me to draw conclusions to my own relationship with my mother. I was not sure what to expect with this movie, but I came out of the "experience" fully appreciating it. The soundtrack, the clothes, and the odd mix of characters made for a wonderful two hours. It doesn't hurt that Zac isn't exactly an eyesore (and French).

Saturday, December 12, 2009

A clever way to fight homophobia.

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bryanboy.com

For the Love of Chloé

December has brought winter in a sudden rush of cold and I have yet to acquire a proper coat. I wonder how I survived in previous years, but realize I have adopted a fashion over function perspective since last Winter. The abandonment of my poor car, Candy, also makes my life much more chilly. Layering has been my savior, but I really just want a beautiful and warm coat.

Chloé offered up some wonderfully relaxed - but no doubt cozy - winter coverings for F/W 2009.

My very favorite was the first look at the runway show, modeled by Sigrid Agren. I'm not sure what it is about this cape, but I'm in love.

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style.com

Karlie Kloss donned the same cape for the November issue of Vogue. Those gloves and Prada waders are absolutely gorgeous with it.

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fashiongonerogue.com

Freja Beha Erichsen wore something similar with a slight Southwestern vibe. The cold weather shorts and over-the-knee boots are two trends I hope stay around for a while. Freja looks a bit like a ravishing buccaneer.

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style.com

Finally, we have Liu Wen in what is the most commercial of these outerwear pieces. The camel-colored lace-ups are delightful and I'd like to slip that bag on my arm any day.

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style.com

Though I dream of owning these pieces, it's not realistic in the slightest. The cape is $4,560 and I am a broke college student who comes from the middle-class suburbs. Urban Outfitters provides me something of reasonably-priced cool, but it obviously does not compare to the work of high fashion designers.

This coat and this wrap are my current pursuits.

"We're so rich in love, we're rolling in cashmere..."

Friday, December 11, 2009

Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Monday, December 7, 2009

Queens

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image via getty via jezebel

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Posed to Perfection

As I was browsing through fashion blogs, I found this image.
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At first glance, I thought it was actual photos that Abbey Lee put on twitter. Really though, it's a Vogue Italia spread by Steven Meisel. I would have believed it had "meiselpic" not be present. I have a strange obsession with the girl, probably because she's a "bad girl" in the fashion world. Nipple rings don't often find their way onto runways and high fashion spreads. These are perfect.

photo found on FLUFF, they source fashiongonerogue.com

Russian Roulette

For the strangest reason, I had the urge to watch Rihanna's newest videos. I had seen photos from both, but I had not actually watched them. "Wait Your Turn" was interesting style-wise, but the concept was rather lackluster. "Russian Roulette" however was perfectly freaky. She looks so sexy and the inclusion of dark elements, such as death, made it all the more enthralling. I've been listening to the song itself over and over for the past hour. The thing I find most intriguing about the video, is the fact that Rihanna gives the viewer a look at both her strength and fragility.

Take a breath...

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

"I Vote Aye"

The New York State Senate voted today on Gay Marriage. Unfortunately, the bill for Gay Marriage was shot down. To me, the refusal to set the standard at equality is not news, but I found myself inspired by the words of a supporter, despite the disappointing decision. Staten Island Senator Diane Savino spoke on why she believes that all people should have the right to marry. Her frankness and wise words are quite incredible.



"...young women are socialized from the time they're 5 years-old to think of being nothing but a bride."

Spoken like a true New Yorker...

Sunday, November 29, 2009

Thanksgiving Break...

My journey to the Tri-Shitties started after class on Wednesday. After escaping the dense traffic and arriving at my house in Burien, I gathered some additional things and departed with my parents, younger brother, and dog to Eastern Washington. We didn't get far before my mother realized she forgot some critical items, so we turned around, collected said items, and hit the not-so-open road once again. The drive was both boring and irritating, as expected, but The Fame Monster provided necessary escape.
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I have yet to actually purchase the album because I'm dead broke, but I will definitely be doing so. Lady GaGa is without a doubt, one of my favorite artists, and I will support her in her production of inspiring art. After 5 or so hours, we arrived in the lovely Kennewick, Washington and said hello to my aunt, uncle, and cousins. The generations then separated; the elder sat in the living room and the rest of us crammed into my cousin Brett's room. Just as they typically do, Brett and my brother Marcus immediately started playing video games to my and my cousin Blair's annoyance. After musical chairs and the switching of games, we ended up just sitting and talking for a while. I was oddly excited about sharing my desire to try LSD and other hallucinogenic substances. We discussed trouble-making and such until my brother wouldn't shut up about being so incredibly bored. In a stroke of genius, someone suggested going to the 24-hour Walmart (because it wasn't already tacky enough). Somehow, I was convinced to go, and we spent an uncomfortable amount of time at the infamous superstore. An additional embarrassing detail is that Marcus decided to belt out the already horrific "Party in the U.S.A.". The whole experience was mortifying, but I survived.

I woke up Thanksgiving morning to coffee and the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, which is customary at any Dolan-Sponseller-Westerman Thanksgiving celebration. There was a lot of sitting around until I finally showered and threw on some clothes. My Grandparents arrive in the late afternoon, but Grandpa forgot the pumpkin pie! Blair and I happily accepted the pie recovery mission. First, we stopped by a neighbor's house to feed some animals, and then we were off to Richland. After driving for a while and going through a frightening and absolutely useless roundabout, we made it successfully. Even so, it took us about five minutes to get into the house. The front door lock was absolutely ridiculous. We visited with my Grandma's obscenely overweight cat Butch, found the pies and cool whip, and departed. Upon my return, Brett was sipping some bubbly, so I knew I needed to get in on the action. Previous Thanksgivings have been disastrous familial feuds, so I figured certain liquids might ease any concern I had. Grandma was at her usual position on the couch with a glass of Famous Grouse scotch whiskey mixed with Pepsi. She may or may not have passed out before dinner was ready. Dinner itself was a pleasant surprise. I'm always disappointed due to the fact that I don't eat a lot of integral Thanksgiving courses (turkey, gravy), but this year I was quite happy and quite full. After dinner, dessert, additional drinks, and socializing, I found myself exhausted and took a quick nap around 8. Blair and I ended the night watching old episodes of "Sex and the City". There is a reason she is my favorite cousin. Even though it was an exhausting evening, falling asleep was a painful process that finally went into effect around 3 a.m.

Friday morning, I woke up, packed, had some great breakfast, and we were out the door. I was happy to be back in Seattle. After a quick dinner, I went to Gillian's house and spent time with my soul sister. Watching Lady GaGa videos, racing to a plate of sweet potato fries, and sneaking liqueur felt like old times that were much missed. The two of us went to Julia's and were joined by a few other friends. That night, I ate too much pie, drank boozy hot coco, and watched the original Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. It was glorious and exhausting, so I went home and slept like a baby.

Today (Saturday), Gill and I went up to UW to drop off my stuff, caught a bus to Queen Anne and saw the amazing documentary "The September Issue".
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If I ever had any doubts about wanting to be a fashion journalist/editor, they have completely disintegrated. Seeing industry vets like Anna Wintour and Grace Coddington could not have been more thrilling or inspiring. I hope that their resilience and hard work on my behalf allows me to work with them after I graduate from college. They are personal heroes of mine. After the movie, we visited Ben at his apartment and went to Red Mill for burgers. The Red Onion garden burger did not disappoint. We watched "Amelie" and hung out for a while until Ben took us home. I find Ben's apartment to be oddly satisfying. He's always playing great music and there is cool art all over the walls. Gill and I sat around, listened to Lady GaGa, ate cookies, and stalked a boy. How typical. Julia came by and the two ended up going home to Normandy Park.

Now I'm in solitude, listening to music and eating soup. I'm quite sleepy. I should get to bed. I have plans for Dim Sum in the morning and I cannot wait.

Goodnight.

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

The Calm Before the Storm?

This week has been a pretty relaxing one, probably due to the fact that Thanksgiving is tomorrow. That seems strange. It really snuck up on me. I have trouble getting excited for Thanksgiving for two reason. First, I do not eat a lot of the food because I'm a vegetarian. Second, I have to spend extended amounts of time with my family. We're going to the Tri-Cities a.k.a. Tri-Shitties of Washington to celebrate with my mother's side of the family. I am looking forward to seeing my cousins, but family interaction is always a big mess. I also feel somewhat guarded when I travel to the Eastern side of the state as it is much more conservative than Seattle. I cannot just show up with my enormous metallic silver American Apparel bag... Or can I? I may bring my computer and blog semi-regularly about my experiences.

Monday, November 23, 2009

Seamless and Valentino: The Last Emperor

College has made me more of a busybody than I had ever been previously. Even outside of my studies, I am constantly doing something, whether it be my internship at the Common Language Project, getting involved with fashion on campus, or just spending time with friends. The fast pace has not been all that conducive to one of my favorite activities, watching movies. I watched two films over the past week that provided a perfect fix.

During the week, I watched the short documentary "Seamless", which is all about the first CFDA (Council of Fashion Designers of America) Vogue Fashion Fund Award. Often young designers, no matter how recognizable they are, do not make money from their business to begin with. Some never end up making money.
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It was inspiring to see Lazaro Hernandez and Jack McCoullough of Proenza Schouler in an earlier stage of their careers. Doo.Ri was also a familiar face with whom I identified. Anna Wintour of course appeared frequently throughout the movie, which transformed me into a giddy little girl. It wasn't the best documentary I've ever seen, but it was enlightening and kept me smiling.

Saturday afternoon, I set some time aside for much needed relaxation. A movie in bed couldn't be more perfect. I had been wanting to watch the documentary "Valentino: The Last Emperor", but I hadn't gotten around to it, so it was an easy pick.
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The film was beautiful in so many ways. Obviously, it was a dream to look at, with countless pieces of haute couture making appearances, as well as the designer's incredible houses. It was moving to see Valentino's dedication and passion for his work so intimately. His relationship with Giancarlo Giammetti was captured at its core. There was tension, there was anger, there was fighting, but above all there was an unconditional love that I doubt I've ever seen between two people. To see Valentino's peers such as Diane Von Furstenburg and Karl Lagerfeld -two design greats themselves- show such admiration for him is truly powerful. Lagerfeld of all people, even noted that himself and other fashion designers make rags in comparison to Valentino. This film made me fully realize the contribution to fashion this man has made. Tears even started to well up in my eyes, which is a feat in itself.

Mr. Valentino Garavani, we miss you.

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

Walk walk fashion baby

My dearest Lady GaGa has put out a music video for "Bad Romance" and it is absolute insanity. There is no shortage of glamour in this slice of heaven. GaGa wears several looks from Alexander McQueen's incredible S/S 2010 collection, including numerous pairs of his undeniably artistic shoes(I counted six). I get a rush each and every time I watch it. Throughout the video, GaGa nods to some of the greatest performers of our time, including the late Michael Jackson. Truthfully, it's a fashion/art/dance/music orgasm. Just watch.



At first, I was afraid to see how GaGa would grow as an artist, but the woman who I hold so close to my heart has yet to disappoint.

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Seattle rain, show me what you've got.

I've living in "The Greater Seattle Area" my entire life, which means I have lived through 18 years of rain. I love the gray skies, the occasional thunderstorm, and of course a downpour. Many people - even those that have lived here just as long - do not. Now that I live here in the U District, I do a lot of walking, and walking in this weather is not always all that fun. I do not own very many pieces of utilitarian clothing or ANY entirely waterproof shoes. I have succumbed to mother nature and have bought Hunter rain boots and an umbrella. Actually, my wonderful mother bought them for me. I never imagined owning an umbrella and even criticized those who do, but after walking into class with my big hair flattened to my face and soaking, I knew changes must be made. As for the boots, my shoes might as well be socks. Hunters are top-of-the-line and their price echoes that, but quality is a valuable and convincing attribute. I will admit, one of the reasons I was so drawn to them was that I had seen photos of various beautiful people in them at music festivals.

One of these such people was Lily Donaldson at Glastonbury this year.

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photo by style.com

Anna Selezneva was just in a gorgeous black and white i-D magazine editorial in which she wore those sick thigh-high waders from the Prada Fall 09 collection. I'm absolutely in love. Those would be an ideal, but there's no way mommy would pay for those!

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photos from i-D magazine via fashionista.com

The forecast tomorrow calls for rain and I'm hoping for it!

My favorite holiday...

My Halloween holiday had several parts to it. First was an absolutely delicious dinner prepared by Gillian, Ellen, and Juan last weekend. Gillian was in town for fall break, so it seemed a perfect time to run around in costume. I had the honor of portraying the UH-mazing Rachel Zoe. This dinner party was at Juan & Leland's place (thanks again boys). I wish I had photos of the food, it was really something. It was a lovely night and it was a wonder I didn't explode from such good food. I was lucky enough to see a group of ladies and gentlemen that I don't get to all that often.

Gillian was Strawberry Shortcake
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Us being us
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I felt at home after seeing this window display at Red Light on the Ave.
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If you can't tell, it is "Mean Girls"-themed. GASP.

Early Friday night, Julia and I had planned on going to the Hansee (UW dorm) Haunted House with Ellen and Cyndy. The line was horrendous and we ended up finally leaving after too much waiting and leaving and returning and waiting. After navigating through a monsoon, we arrived at a costume/birthday party on at my friend Lauren's house for her roommate, Sarah. It was a good time, as it always is with this group of friends, though some of us don't remember the entire night. And no, I'm not speaking about myself. I did however, flirt with numerous men throughout the night, but that's not strange even in "real life". A note: dressing in drag is not exactly conducive to being a boy magnet. Neither is the way I dress normally, but I proudly dress for me. Anyways, Friday was magnificent as always. The walk home was rather interesting to. Tall, drunk girls are a handful, but I love them anyway.

Sharon (as a nerd) and I in Hansee
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Saturday Alison and I went to the District Cross Country meet in Tacoma to get Halloween revenge on our former coach, Mr. J. The man didn't let us practice the course in costume a year before, even though it was Halloween. Our point was made, and our former teammates seemed rather pleased. That night, I attended a rather...obscure party. It was a friend's cousin's friend's house, though I do know said cousin, so technically I guess there is only a degree of separation here. This was not my normal crowd -there were several ROTC boys- but I had fun anyway. Julia, Cyndy, Alison, and I danced anonymously to strobe lights and didn't quit until we had to. One of us seduced a Chippendale's dancer and I had a random freak out about certain friends not playing nice. For future reference, do not play games with me when I am in an altered state. I will get rowdy on you. There was a mobile status update on facebook declaring myself a "SUPERCUNT" if that gives you any idea...

Alison and I
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With the girls
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Channeling the Zoe
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Cyndy as Rosie the Riveter
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My girls in a QFC parking lot... (Rosie, Post-it, Leila)
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Finally on Sunday, Julia, Alison, and I decided to go see "Paranormal Activity" despite being warned that it was not worth the money. I figure if there's a movie hailed as "the scariest of all time", I should go see it. I was severely disappointed. Terrible acting and annoying characters had me laughing throughout the movie. I would not recommend it. Sorry to all of you that were scared... I was not.

Now, I must get some sleep. How was your Halloween?

Thursday, October 22, 2009

Like a rollercoaster...

As the week came to a close, I felt under immense pressure, because my first two midterms were quickly approaching. Wednesday after class, I had an interview with the Common Language Project, a nonprofit journalism organization that needed an intern. After some quick research, this small, but dutiful group intrigued me with their international reporting and independent spirit. The interview went well, I assume, because today I confirmed my spot as a reporting intern. Tomorrow after class, I am to report to the office. I'm not sure if this means I am jumping right in, but I am excited in any case.

After the interview, I spent hours studying, concentrating on my communication class. At 6-8 hours, I was exhausted and felt confident that my psychology midterm would go fine without me having studied the night before.

Thursday morning, I hustled out the door, went to Suzzallo Library for a quick review, grabbed a coffee, and went to the HUB auditorium for my comm exam. Upon completion, I felt fine. Not good, not bad, just fine. Some girls from my FIG and I grabbed lunch at the HUB and then went on to our psych exam. Again, I felt fine. While walking back to my dorm, music blaring in my ears, I was stopped by a young man who asked if he could take my picture for his fashion blog University Street Meet. Being the attention whore I am, I agreed. Truly that wasn't the only reason. I was intrigued by the fact that I had found a street style photographer within my college community. Sometimes it feels like the fashion-friendly community here is very limited, especially when girls prance around in Uggs and Gortex jackets. I spoke with Nikolaj about collaboration and will be contacting him very shortly. I myself am not a photographer, but love what he's doing. His blog can be found here. The post featuring me is called "Coping With Copius Colors".
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And my ego is stroked again... Thank you Nikolaj Lasbo.

Friday I was out of class early and met up with one of my main ladies, Nina, and went to her apartment in Westlake. We caught up, we dyed my hair, we argued about what we should wear that night. Of course, we were going to see The Gossip, so fabulosity could not be in short supply. Pictures were completely necessary.
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We met up with Julia at the Showbox at the Market, I trespassed and peed in Pike Place Market with the help of an employee, and felt quite rebellious because of it. The show was amazing. Lesbians were everywhere. Beth Ditto's voice was a hurricane, despite a cold. I even had an opportunity to sing into the microphone, but my voice was so gone from trying to imitate Ditto's wails that I couldn't produce a sound (I think...). Perhaps it just sounded awful. After the show, Julia and I had a hell of a time getting home, but we won't talk about that.

Saturday was a wonderful Pre-Halloween party with friends old and new. Pictures might be up soon. Ellen and Gillian cooked a delicious feast and I attempted to walk in heels without looking like a boy walking in heels. It didn't work. Julia, Gill, and I came back to the dorm, slept in Julia's bed, and woke up without much sleep.

Today was alright. Julia's parents generously bought me brunch, which was delicious. Check out Atlas in U-Village if you want some good huevos rancheros. The rest of the day I sort of studied... I had dinner with two lovely girls in my building... Then all hell seemed to break loose. I thought I had lost my phone and I had just left it in the bathroom. The real bad news was that I completely bombed my psych midterm. I'm praying the news for comm won't be the same.

Tomorrow morning I have a real adventure ahead of me. I will be trying to visit Tukwila and register to vote at the very last minute. We'll see how that goes. I'm sorry this post is loosing it's luster after each consecutive line, but thinking about my problems makes me weary. Good night and good luck lovers.

Monday, October 19, 2009

Morning Perfection.

This morning I'm starting my day with a chai tea latte and the October issue of Vogue. I was mid-way through an article called "The Ex Files" by Tad Friend–which is all about his recounted experiences with women, from their perspective–when I came upon a perfectly scandalous quote from one of Mr. Friend's exes.

"'I must admit that I miss wearing sequins, having sex, playing pool at 4:00 in the morning, and going to see bands like the Circle Jerks in Boston.... My greatest danger is the everydayness. If it descends in full force I'll simply get depressed and I'll ingrow like a toenail.... I'd like to read something of yours shortly-letter of fiction, anything.... Here's a smooch for you.' She inked in parted lips."

If this isn't an appropriate sentiment to start off my morning, I don't know what is. I myself, am quite the dreamer and like Lady GaGa, "I'm obsessively opposed to the typical." Kerry, as she is re-named later brings up another guy, declaring "If he'd had a heart, I would have crushed it..." What a woman.

And on the adjacent page, this killer ad from Givenchy (plus the house's name, of course).

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(photo provided by stylefrizz.com)

Good morning dreamers!

Thursday, October 15, 2009

John Galliano

John Galliano's latest collection is all about the demise of the screen siren. It's as if these women jumped into a Galliano-created black hole and appeared on the runway. The show was beyond theatrical, which even affected some of the photographs I viewed. It was somewhat of an unexplainable mess, but that's where Galliano's genius lies. It may not make sense to all of us, but it is beautiful nevertheles.

Karlie Kloss
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Natasha Poly
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Kelli Lumi
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Heidi Mount
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Siri Tollerod
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Lindsay Ellingson
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Iekeliene Stange
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Yulia Kharlaponova
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Denisa Dvorakova
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Heloise Guerin
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Magdalena Frackowiak
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Frida Gustavsson
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photos by style.com

Valentino

This season, Valentino's new designers Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli, presented a collection meant to revitalize the Valentino brand. Obviously, before the man behind the name left, it wasn't creatively suffering, but Chiuri and Piccioli made the conscious decision to make this collection more youthful than those of the past. Nothing says youthful like short, party dresses, and there were more than a few. They weren't typical in that, they were more romantic than party dresses ofter are. There were ruffles for everyone. If you want to live in a gray bush of ruffles (I know I do!), Valentino has got you covered. Another noteworthy look was a leather "lace" dress. It epitomized the collection's merging worlds of soft and hard. Tim Blanks described it as a "fairytale gone wrong", but it looks oh so right...

I've recently discovered a "details" section in the collections on style.com, and have decided these shoes must be showcased.

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Anna Selezneva
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Sasha Pivovarova
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Mirte Maas
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Freja Beha Erichsen
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Chanel Iman
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Anastasia Kuznetsova
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Patricia van der Vliet
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Abbey Lee
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Jenny Sinkaberg
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Keke Lindgard
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Kasia Struss
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Hanne Gaby Odiele
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Sasha Pivovarova
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Anna Selezneva
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photos by style.com