It occurred to me in the latter part of last evening that I had yet to plaster my favorite looks across this page - let alone with accompanying lyrics. New York, and London have since passed and Milan is creeping along. I'm a little behind. While normally I post collection by collection of which I'm loving, bestowed below you'll find my collages compiled of images by trend. (All images from  Style.com)

LeSport (minus the sac) 

Upon first viewing, I thought those white Fendi booties were actually suede high top sneakers - they're not, which doesn't even detract from the faux athleticism occurring. The Prada show wasn't as clear cut compared to last season, but in turn would clothe a variety of different players. I'm convinced Christopher Kane, who designed the middle and far right looks, is indeed the British version of Alexander Wang. His innovative page turning book inspired ruffle technique truly added another dimension to his collection. Lastly, Fay tapping into the psyches of the girls who want to be shot by Tommy Ton so badly that they would be just as jubilant as the Snoopy birds plastering their chest.  

Knits and Purls

Starting at far left, in Helmut Lang, we can see how comfortable the model truly is, eyes closed about to take the briefest siesta of all siestas. Whereas The Row said forget the turtleneck, with a neck so large that it extends to mid back (I'm going to go ahead and refer to this one as the Rhino neck). No. 21 must have read my note about fringe, because that shaggy sweater is better than any 70's carpet.  A. Detacher  incorporated a nonchalant waist tie worked into an already effortlessly wearable jumper. Chris Kane, at it again but this time with ruffled knits and dainty detailing. Francisco Costa stepping up his game in what I'm deeming the resurgence of Calvin Klein - occurred with a plethora of cashmere and mohair knits paired with lug sole horse hair combat boots. 

Utilitarian vs. Copious Coats

I want to wear this No. 21 cattle coat whilst hugging the Chick-Fil-a cow, or standing in an open field in Texas. The embellished detailing on the shoulders reminds me of backpack straps. This Simone Rocha coat, and the Belstaff (far right) have similar pocket placement, but the Rochas girl is set apart by playful Elizabethan inspired oversized sleeve ruffles. No. 21 undoubtedly earning a sequin encrusted medal for their coat game this season with this number, a matching sequin polo is also available FYI. One thing I continue to admire about Fendi is their undeniable ability to use their fur scraps in such a way that it appears to be their first intended purpose - maybe it is what do I know? Finally, Belstaff whose images prompted me to tweet about how I wished my hair and mittens would always look this good. Additionally, I would like my coat and boots to always look this good. 

Lite Brite

Slightly brighter, yet safe enough for those to play freely with color. Starting with 3.1 Phillip Lim who used pink shearling in the form of an elongated boxy vest. Thakoon who sent down a blue based plaid,  with a casually wrapped neck and zipper trim. With accents of reddish orange and baby tassels singing to my soul at every step, Delpozo continues to really understand me, or contrarily maybe I really understand them. While not really all that bright - the compilation of stripes in every which direction, add to the mirage of cascading ruffles at Richard Chai Love. Without a doubt, this has been my favorite Prabal Gurung collection to date. The colors, the knits, the drapery... streaker or no streaker, the collection was phenomenal.  Promulgating the average working man with more convince-ability than eHarmony, Rag & Bone showed lumberjack plaid, mechanics jackets, and baggy red detailed boots with mary jane like detailing.  

 Miss Misc-yMisc-y

When I collaged the above photos together I saved the file as "miscymiscy" I'm going to be blunt and state that I don't really know what I'm trying to say with this image. These looks compliment each other well, and wouldn't really fit any where else. First up, Proenza Schouler - sculpted stark white leather, multi-print skater dress, with shoes so sensible you almost disregard their price tag. The Suno collection overall was very strong, with both textural and visual elements, including this navy polka dot mid length sheath. Marques'Almeida, who showed multiple Canadian tuxedos creating them in a way in which I had never seen before. It had me trying to figure out how I could make something so shredded and similar. The next look is Fendi, where Karl Lagerfeld used patchwork detailing in the most lavish way. Suno again, this time the ethnic inspiration clear with metallic embroidery and a skirt that was laced up on the each side. 

Orange Juice

I'm tired of seeing captions stating "Orange is the New Black" whether it's regarding the TV show or the trendy color for fall. Orange is not and will never be the new black. That's not to say that I don't like a pop of tangerine, or a tangy glass with extra pulp. Mark Fast nailed the hue in a robe-like coat with its oversized sleeves and collar. While not entirely orange, Delpozo was behind brighter shades for fall as well. Ostwald Helgason addressed the color with a sportier aesthetic, and a bit of shimmer in copper tones. The athletic inspired trim on the skirt really completes this look IMO. A sense of raw exorbitance was expressed through bright hand woven tapestry like materials, seen at Altuzarra.

Text-Text-Textures & Textiles

I think one of the most exciting things about fashion is the experimental nature of the designers who are are not afraid of that particular insurmountable force, as well as the textiles used. Proenza boys, Alex Wang - I'm looking at you. Jack McCollough and Lazarro Hernandez of Proenza Schouler, played with building insulation inspired jacquards, woodgrain and speckled prints. The prints layered together with voluminous shoulders and sleek silhouettes, of which were all incredibly wearable. Also the fact that the show was set to Missy Elliot, you have to watch it. This look from Rodebjer captured my eye with what appeared to be a casually tossed blanket around the shoulders, paired with the fluidity of the layers on the lower half.  Continuing my praise for Alexander Wang, he showed innovative color changing heat activated materials, a leather coat with an uneven raw edge, boot x mules, camp-gear pockets, and  quilted pillow top knits, I could go on and on. Go watch this too. Well done Wang. Lastly, we spoke about Prabal Gurung earlier on, this look accompanied with a cropped fur, scarf tied oh so-so, and jacquard knit with bright white contrasting trim. Each expanding their horizon, thus allowing them to truly stand out in a pool of so many designers. Kudos. 

Continuation of Fendi Friends

Fur + Florals

That girl on the left is like ugh how are you so perfect?

blue hair don't care 

Hanne Gaby's like Surfboard

Leaving Wang everyone was like where's Wang - suddenly look up and theres Wang. 

Look at him and his blurry giggle.

This morning amid my scattered brain I thought of how I would define my personal style, had someone besides myself ever asked. I posed myself with the question: If you had to define your wardrobe with ten pieces, what would they be? Well, What would they be? If these ten pieces were chosen over their competition they must mean enough to me - thus they might,  just might help me better define my sartorial choices.

1. Black Frilly Dress - I bought it two years ago to wear on my birthday, but its really been through so much more. It has small crochet flowers and gathered sheer layers of fabric that swing around at every step. I wear a fair share of sweaters over it, so it often moonlights as a skirt. (pictured is Red Valentino)

2. Leather Jacket - It transforms everything into a better version of itself. (Mango quilted and suede)

3. Alpaca Coat - Okay, I just finished making this one so I haven't technically worn it - outside of 24/7 within the confines of my house. I know this one is going to be a staple though, after all he was stitched with nothing but TLC. (Alexander Wang)

4. Jeans - ONLY of the Topshop variety. I tried their denim for the first time last August and theres no turning back, I think I have 5 pairs now.

5. Oversized Mens Pullover - the one I'm referencing within my own wardrobe I got from Thrift Town and slightly resembles a very loved teddy bear. It lends it's self to many roles, over the dress, under the jacket, over the plaid under the coat, with the jeans etc. (Rag & Bone)

6. White Tee Shirt - I went back and forth between a black or white tee. Settling on white just for the novelty of my particular favorite - from an Elizabeth and James sample sale, it's large and soft enough that it could've been my boyfriends, had I had a boyfriend who shopped at sample sales.

7. Plaid Silk Button up - Also from Thrift Town, it yearns to be really grungy but it's 100% silk so it can only go so far. (LAMB)

8. Penny Loafers - They're black and white and have baby sized gold tassels. For some reason whenever I'm in Dallas they garner a lot of male attention that leaves me wondering - did he like me or just my shoes? (Michael Kors)

9. Wang Ponyhair Oxfords - they're not really oxfords but that's what AWang.com refers to them as. They were an eBay feat and lend about two additional inches to my stature.

10. Golden Goose Sneakers - Yet another, if not my most prized eBay victory. Theres just something about handmade, pre-distressed sneakers that add a little sparkle to my stride - aside from the fact that they are indeed metallic.

After making this list, I realized these ten items are much like my style in which they are perpetually changing. These items I somehow lived without prior to obtaining, but now claim I cannot. Just like two years ago I lived for brightly colored blazers in every color of the rainbow and now can't even bear to look at them. SO what items of the future will take over the very spots above? Destiny's Child really captured how I feel about this through "thought I would die without you But I'm livin'"

In my last post I may have made a remark about frilly lace collared dresses, well nothing was more - Cydney what are you doing- when realizing that, post-hand-stitching the lace around the collar on this dress. I think this just goes to show how much my style varies dependent on my mood. While working 40+ hours per week I'm knocking down frivolous frocks and bright hues, then suddenly a week later (after my last day working for the summer) I'm making a hot pink silk dress with lace detailing... Regardless, I made this dress after debating between two Free People dresses, one of which was too long, and the other almost too short, thus it was time to DIY. 

New York Skyline Ring - Etsy, Spike Screw Ring - Forever 21, Latin Script Ring - Marc Jacobs

Hallelujah ~ I finally found a decent faux Balenciaga Ring Set via Forever 21

Black Slip - H&M, Halogen felt hat - Nordstrom Rack, Sunglasses - Nordstrom 

Alexander Wang Donna Bag - Barneys,  Sandals - Rag & Bone

In addition, please vote for me in H&M's 50 States of Fashion Contest! 

It seems like everyone and their sister is having a sale right now online, in-stores, or both... Essentially this blog should just be titled "Cool Things I Want" but whatever. I've crafted three semi-not-all-complete-outfits from various online sales, separated into three columns, in which I think everything is under $500. 

Outfit #1: (left) Theyskens Theory watercolor satin dress, Dannijo Liana collar necklace (available in gold too) Alexander Wang Black cut-out Dasha ankle boots (at SSENSE). Seeing that my size is one of two left, I'm taking that as a sign these are meant to be. I would probably add either a black leather motorcycle vest or jacket.

Outfit #2: Low Classic faux leather cut out skirt at Opening Ceremony, really taking texting to a whole new level. I would wear with a white linen tank, or a white collared button up with this Dannijo Lincoln Collar necklace. How perfect for working on the fourth of July? For footwear I would add white converse, or a simple black flat sandal. 

Outfit #3: Dannijo Otto cuff, Diane Von Furstenberg yellow and zebra print mini wedge, Kenzo front flap skirt, and these Rag & Bone tortoiseshell Monroe sunglasses, (which act as a summer essential - don't let your pupils be damaged) And although it is legal for ladies to roam the streets of NYC topless, that is not the case here in Dallas, so this outfit IS indeed missing a top.  A white linen tank would suffice here too, or if we're feeling spendy, add the Isabel Marant Etoile Linen Freedom tank.

Alas, Finals Month is finally over aka dancing around in my empty dorm room to Atomic Kitten like Lizzie McGuire circa 2003 - sadly I'm not going to Europe like she did, just Texas.

Any who we'll go back to the beginning of May and catch up on all the things I meant to write about...

Vintage doodilydoos - sometimes jewelry is better with age, the cuffs are smaller, the necklaces more ornate, and you won't risk the "did you get that from Forever 21?" Not that theres anything wrong with Forever 21, vintage gems just offer that certain aura of uniqueness. 

Thus far my favorite vintage excursions in the city take place at the Antique/Vintage sales in the parking garage on 25th between 6th and 7th. It's a good time, promise.

 I was almost as excited at The Great Gatsby premier as Jenna Lyons was.

The movie in general lived up to my expectations too which was nice, the only disconnect that bothered me was some of the music seemed ill fitting for the scenes.

The Met Gala - really just made me want to invest in a quality zoom lens and an extra camera battery.

A few months ago I mentioned Wang running, however I don't recall stating that we were running with Wang himself.

 (PS. If you can't tell this is photoshopped... I don't know about you)

New York, you've been so good to me. Until August, 

Now onto Resort...

The only bad thing about working for free is the whole not being able to figure out what you're going to buy thing, seeing as well...you can't really buy anything. So am I already figuring out what I'm going to buy via my summer job? Absolutely.

First on the list: (in no particular order) Isabel Marant Patchwork Denim Jacket, (pictured above Etoile Isabel Marant Denim Shirt) It's not the same gem that I turned down at Beacons Closet, and I'll continue to ask myself why, why was I that idiot that turned down a $54 Isabel Marant jacket? Any who the Alexander Wang Kori Booties are perhaps at the tippytop of this wonderful list, as well as this collection of Rings ASOS, Tom Binns, Dannijo, Kenneth Jay Lane, and ASOS(again)

Okay. Okay. I know what you're thinking.

 Am I actually considering paying over $500 for a pair of slightly distressed sneakers? yes. 

LOOK AT THEM. Those beauties have dots, stripes, AND stars, and there is no price too high for patriotism. Sure, they better live up to a certain level of walking on clouds comfort, but really I can't get over the effortlessly perfect aspect of these Golden Goose Tricolor Sneakers. 

In other news, eBay has further proved that it knows me perhaps better than I know myself. Case and Point, randomly suggesting this Rick Owens jacket to me. Dusty grey and olive ribbed velvet, with a dose of exaggerated collar pure perfection. (shown above is also Rick Owens via Pinterest) 

Dannijo Marilyn Bracelet. I'm particularly intrigued by Dannijo for their offerings of both short and long bracelet lengths. As a lad with small wrists, a few of my greatest fears consist of my bangles slipping off, breaking, or landing into a subway grate, all of which are very tragic.

 A shorter length would simply wash away my fears. 

Not only are these Alice & Olivia high waisted shorts, my current brand du jour but I feel like they would benefit multiple pieces I already own (see denim crop top, Prabal Gurung for Target wedges)

As Lana says "Money is the anthem to success"

"In Commemoration of my 1/2 Birthday" 

I titled the email to my mother, in which I included the following collage, despite the fact that my actual half birthday would have been over a month ago. She pointed out the fact that I was late to my own celebration by stating "don't you mean your dyslexic half-birthday?  (9/4 versus 4/9?)"

 But in all actuality, I was late to my own celebration or early depending on how you look at it.

I also appreciate the fact that my mother thought I was celebrating the reverse date of my birth, mainly because I'm surprised society hasn't picked up on that idea. (Half Birthdays, Reverse Birthdays, and Actual Birthdays YOLO right?)

Does this serve as a belated celebration due to the fact I am 1/2 a year older than I ever have been before? yes.

 Is this really just a premature list of tentative things I want in celebration of the day in which I am a whole year older than I ever have been before? absolutely yes.

But most recently my mother has pointed out the fact that by the time my birthday comes I will "no doubt have found some more lovely things to have :-)" She knows me too well.

Accessorize Hamptons Perspex Satchel, Alexander Wang shoes (or boots), Zara Combination Jacket with Zips, Lulu Frost Beaded Yellow Bracelet, Equipment printed silk top, Dannijo Mona Li Ring, Tibi Baroque Print wrap skirt, Chloe Sevigny for OC Ruffle Short, (another) Equipment printed silk shirt, Dannijo Umbilical Bracelet, Tibi Daisy Converse, and sunglasses,

I've been mulling spring trends this week. I was expecting this week (aka spring break) to have me leaping into spring spirit, but I'm just not quite there yet. The weather was not warm enough for spring, but too warm for winter dressing. Upon shopping I kept asking myself

  "what am I even looking for? I don't know what I want"

After careful thought/consideration I can say my Spring Top 5:

1. LOVING Denim everything. (well thats pretty basic... I said to myself) Patchwork, overalls, crop tops dresses etc. particularly with black and white pieces, along with some various pop of color. Also leaning toward lighter bleached denim, which I normally don't favor. This was basically my wardrobe combo for the entire week.

2. Coral and Baby Blue, partially because I fell in love twice with a pair of pale blue linen Acne shorts that would have rang up <$40.00, turns out they were three sizes too big and I was just too excited to check the size.

3. Dainty and not-so-dainty collars. Yes, both. I can't make up my mind (The Khai Khai 'Cloudy With a Chance of Rain, and Lulu Frost Demeter Collage Necklace are my reigning favs)

4. Cut out boots, I feel like the pair I recently purchased completely transformed my wardrobe.

5. Overalls, especially vintage, or of the Zara silk variety.

Kenzo Belt, Lulu Frost Demeter Collar, Simone Rochas Neon Embroidered Organza T-Shirt, 3.1 Philip Lim I Love NY T-Shirt (Nueva York, I love you), Zara Denim Patchwork Top  Sea NY Cotton Linen Stripe Shorts, Zara Printed Bermudas, Rachel Comey Acker with Holes, A Piece Apart Agnes Tank, Boticca Unicorn Ring

MiH Scalloped linen blend shorts, Alexander Wang Marti Bckpack, Olympia Le Tan Blouse, Lulus sunglasses, Zara neon flat sandal, Rebecca Minkoff Heart Stack Ring, Rebecca Minkoff Woven Box Bag, Zara beaded shorts (shout to Philip Lim), Lulu Frost code ring, Prada Sunglasses, Scotch & Soda Linen Safari Playsuit

ASOS Leather Flat Sandals, Topshop Kaboom Crop Tee, ASOS Chunky Blue Necklace, Topshop Moto Acid Wash Denim Jacket, ASOS Necklace, Opening Ceremony Blouse, Topshop Advance Cut out Boots, ASOS Metal Top Keyhole Round Sunglasses, ASOS Round Sunglasses with Pearl Highbrow, Opening Ceremony OC LA Perforated Bag

"It's my manifestation board, I use it for inspiration, like when I'm not feeling inspired. 

Just like look at the board. We should make one together."

-Shoshanna from Lena Dunham's 'Girls'

All photos from Polyvore

Issey Miyake

Bold yet functional. Key players were those graphic print pants and coats. I loved the pointed color detailing on the last look. I also want to point out how content the models all appear. I wonder if it's harder for a brooding model to appear content down the runway or in their natural brooding state?

I know if I was in these clothes I'd be pretty content.

 Balmain

One part 80's inspo, the other part Christmas inspo. The second I saw the first look my mind thought "its the red ornaments my mom loves" But really, no matter what inspo he drew from, it produced a phenomenal show. 

Balenciaga

One of my most highly anticipated shows this PFW. All those haters a few months ago bashing Wang, doubting Wang... Look at Wang now. When he came out after the show my heart fluttered with joy.

 I'll quote myself briefly "He's growing up so fast"

 Sure the collection was a smidgen safe, but he respected Balenciaga as a brand, and I'm sure he will build up his confidence in this position as time lapses. The shoes and crackled paint pieces were of my favorites.

Christian Dior

As Kanye once said "Christian Dior they don't make em like this anymore"

I recommend watching the show to get the full effect of the surreal chic aura.

The voices speaking in the show, as strange as they were, were engaging interesting and new. 

 But we'll talk clothing-wise.

Manish Arora

This collection was loud and fresh. The technical layered intricate prints reminded me a bit Mary Katrantzou, except he took on different silhouettes that she typically does. Statement pull over with fur, please let the statement embellished pullover never fade, its currently a reigning favorite of mine.

All photos Style.com