My First Mobile Post

Hey guys I'm just trying to see if I can post a blog from my phone. I know it's been awhile since my last post but that's cuz I haven't been able to post to my blog. This should change as I am working to post from my phone since I have this on me versus my computer!

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Overview of Escondido Fashion Week

Here is my editorial of Escondido Fashion Week...

Flashes of lights, roars of applause, glamorous outfits to the eclectic mix of models made a muted second attempt at a fashion week in Escondido. Oddly enough, I found there to be more positives than negatives. It is the City of Escondido's attempt to put a little glitz into the downtown business district. However, I took issue to that being as that it didn't represent Escondido as a whole.

The week was filled with a mess of businesses (including pet owners, why I don't understand) throwing their outfits on models that didn't seem to have purged enough from all their binge eating. Through all the mess, came a theme... t-shirts and a lot of casual wear seem to glide down the runway. Bravo to the independent businesses who seem to "make it work". Yes, casual wear is the standard but what is the point of sending down t-shirts, shorts and designers from LA if we come here to see some truly unique project-runway worthy outfits?

However, I must give praise to that of Janice Jaracie for Nelli* who seriously stood out from the rest. It was her line that, with a bit of needed tweaking, could save a dwindling market in the City of Escondido.

Overall, this experience was a good one but the organizers need to include all of Escondido in order to make any difference. Why not attract LA businesses to come South and sell them on the idea that this could be the next Rodeo Drive? Or is it too late for that? Only time will tell. My suggestions to the planners are to include some big name retailers!!! BCBG MaxAzria, Banana Republic, Express, Abercrombie and Fitch... these will bring in patrons and spur growth in the City of Escondido. Perhaps next year's fashion week will be a better one.

*Nelli by Janice Jaracie can be found at: http://www.nelliusa.com/

The Fashion Breakdown .70

So there is so much to share, and I know I know, many of you have been waiting for something!

The Fashion Breakdown 70: So lets start off with my visit to a boutique last month...

So Jessica's Traveling Boutique came back into town and I got a chance to check out some of her new stuff. Thanks to Jessica for letting take the shots of her clothing and thanks to Joyce for being the model!

One thing I didn't touch on earlier was sports wear. Spring 2009 is adding a touch of sportiness to your wardrobe whether that be spandex, or throwing in a little 80's touch to everyday outfits.

Here were some of my favorite selections from Jessica's Traveling boutique [click to enlarge]:


"Sportswear meets dress" at its best, spandex within the entire outfit actually taking the queue of using it for work with a blazer or crop jacket, then taking off the jacket into cocktail hour with the girls.


I love this combo... we took a shirt that looked a little oversized for the dress and tucked it into the pocketed knit skirt. This is what stylists do people! I love the plunging neck line with the knit skirt. Purple is in!!! This outfit is about taking something you might not think works and put it together with something else to create a new outfit.


Watch out there girls! This is a t-shirt dress with pockets below. A little Carrie Bradshaw but absolutely figure friendly! The earth, nude tone of the shirt complements a lot of skin types for a great look. Pair this with some booties and you're ready to hit the town.


I thought I throw this in because wowee how great this one turned out. And let me just say how great the pockets are in the dress! It's form flattering and it just accenuates the right things! This is a great take on the plaid shirts women are wearing!

[Photos by: Andy Huynh. Model: Joyce. Clothing: Jessica's Traveling Boutique]

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

Society Breakdown - Escondido Fashion Week

As I mentioned before, Escondido Fashion Week is officially happening next week! Here is the schedule for their shows:

MONDAY, April 6, Fashion Week Launch Party and Runway Show
Don’t miss this launch party! Enjoy an evening of upcoming Fashion Trends presentation by Fashion Group International, and a runway show featuring fashion’s downtown boutiques, and a pet fashion show on the runway to kick off Fashion Week Downtown 2009.

TUESDAY, April 7, Fashion Show Featuring Recycled Materials
This edgy, upbeat show will present fashions by multi-media artists created with recycled materials and/or elements. “Artists and designers of all ages will be showing socially conscious clothing that will turn you Green with envy.

WEDNESDAY, April 8, Ladies Night Out, Beauty for the Mind, Body and Spirit
Enjoy an evening of spa visits and goodies as you tour our Downtown day spas. Each day spa will host a reception with goodie bags and at the end of the evening be sure to enter to WIN several luxury spa packages being offered by the Downtown Escondido day spas. Also, enjoy Designer Showcases at many of the different boutiques and galleries.

THURSDAY, April 9, Local Designers Take the Runway
This exciting runway show will include collections from Janice Jaraicie of Nelli USA, Stacie May, Sela Wear, and Michael Stiska.

FRIDAY, April 10, Featuring La Isla Couture Swimsuits from Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition
Showing on the runway this year will be international swimwear company La Isla Couture. Swimsuits featured in: Sports Illustrated, InStyle, Seventeen, Ocean Drive, Marie Claire and more. Also taking the runway is Surf Prescriptions with the launch of their new collection and Olga Cecilia Sánchez of Fuegorosa, showcasing her Mediterranean and elegant French vintage collection.

SATURDAY, April 11, Red Carpet, Grand Finale: Featuring Designers David Kahn of Kahn Jeans and Lauren-Elaine Designs
Featuring David Kahn, jean designer of the most innovative denim designs, fabrics and washes for both men and women. Many Hollywood luminaries wear David Kahn Jeans such as Debra Messing, Geena Davis, Julia Roberts, Jaime Pressley and Cameron Diaz. Also featuring Lauren-Elaine Designs “Siren Collection”. Lauren’s collection is a high-end, ultra-femme women's label consisting primarily of gowns, dresses, and separates designed with an emphasis on effortless elegance and individuality.

To purchase tickets or more information can be found on http://www.fashionweekdowntown.com/

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

Status Update

Fear not! I'm here! I apologize for the delay in posts... Its been a turbulent last 2 1/2 weeks. I've was blessed to attend some shows up in LA for fashion week and then head over to a boutique with a friend modeling the clothes for me. Unfortunately, my computer has been playing bad mind games with me. So unfortunately, I was able to post anything. And now... I've been prepping for Escondido Fashion Week. So no worries. Internet is fine now (I hope).

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

The Fashion Breakdown .69

My pick of the week...

Payless Shoe Source... a sandal that incorporates snake-skin pattern and galdiator style... for $20!




Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

The Fashion Breakdown .68

Spring 2009 ready to wear for women!

The Fashion Breakdown 68: As I mentioned earlier in the guy's edition, this season is very reflect about whats going on in the world. Here is the breakdown of Style.com's pick for Spring 2009 trends.

Depression_ Designers are returning to the styles of depression (i.e. 1930s). Yes ladies, flappers swooping, fitted dresses are making its way back (minus the whole idea of women at home thing). Look_1, Look_2, Look_3

Origami_ As seen at the Oscars with many actresses taking on geometric shapes in their wardrobe. Intricate isn't bad at all. Think about it, you are wearing an art piece. Shapely pieces are finding its way to retailers right now! Look_1, Look_2, Look_3

Mid-Eastern Influence_ Stemming from the jumpsuit and designer love for Moroccan silk and turbines come the Mid-Eastern/Saharan look. And I mean... emphasis on the jumpsuit! Look_1, Look_2, Look_3

80's Love_ Yes, the shoulder pads are back, yes, the torn up lace is in, and yes, the ripped denim is here. Now before you go busting out all those 80s clothing from your closet, keep in mind that these are updated looks that pull that 80s into modern times. Style.com calls this "Trashy and Vaudeville." Look_1, Look_2, Look_3

Grecian envy_ Yes, many of you are probably saying... I've seen this already... MANY TIMES! Well fix it if its not broken right? There's only room for improvement right? Okay okay, enough of the cliches. Look_1, Look_2, Look_3

Remember, make it your own but you now have a new guide. Know that a lot of these styles do exist and don't have to be as severe as you may think.

Thanks to style.com for the photos.

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

Society Breakdown - Sale Event

I'm sending these out all late but I've been writing everyday!!

Society Breakdown: If you are going to be in the Encinitas area... make sure you check out Jessica's Traveling Boutique. She is back in town... I can't wait to check out her new stuff!

Here is the info just in case you can see the image:

What: Sunday Shopping Soiree
When: Sunday, March 15, 4-7pm
Where: When In Rome Restaurant,
1108 South Coast Highway 101, Encinitas, CA 92024
More info: mia@ranchandcoast.com



Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

The Fashion Breakdown .67 [Guys Edition]

It's been awhile since I've written a post for all the guys who read my blog; as well as, the women who want some advice on finding clothing pieces for the men in their life. Although, fall 2009 is already out, I want to make sure that those are ready for spring before I jump right into fall. Let's begin!

The Fashion Breakdown 67: This season is very reflective of what is going on in the world and at home. By that, I mean, the economy. You know I've never been one to say, "Hey, spend several hundred bucks on a piece of clothing." But remember, that these are investment pieces will last you a long time. So its okay to splurge just a bit to make sure your garment is one that is of quality. So here are some key pieces that are essential to a Spring wardrobe.

1_ Bomber jacket - a classic piece that either be dressed up or down, pairing is everything.
2_ Blazer - A fitted jacket that is properly sized to the length of the arm; width of the chest; and cut of the jacket. Not all jackets are flattering even if it fits you.
3_ Black Patent Leather Lace-ups
4_ Chinos - for the all-American look. Roll it up to the ankle for this season's look!
5_ Pink or Purple Piece - Designers are Any shade of pink or purple would do.

Accessories
1_ Tie Clip
2_ Tote - You're on the go, think gym bag meets versatility for everyday life. Shape like bowling ball bag or travel bag.

All of these pieces are affordable and I know if you follow my sales posting. You'll have no issue trying to find one!

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

The Fashion Breakdown .66

So for some reason, I'm loving this new trend.... Jumpsuits.

You can find many retailers sporting these new fashions... BCBG has a jumpsuit that I saw featured on a daytime talk show.

www.bcbg.com

Make a statement by wearing a jumpsuit. I'll tell ya now... it may be out of fashion from time to time but there is always a reason to have one of these stylish suits! And most importantly, accessorize!

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

The Fashion Breakdown .65

So I've been neglecting the guys recently... but more on what trends to expect soon. But here is an item that is hot and similar to what many male celebrities are wearing:

www.aldoshoes.com

The boot is called "Albertini." This boot can be worn with jeans for that rocker/biker look. Although they may be a bit expensive right now, wait till they go on sale towards the end of the season. You'll see a good decrease in cost.

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

Make Me A Top Model

So I kind of feel bad for posting this but am I the only one that is excited about the return of The CW's America's Next Top Model?? I mean its such a shame though that great fashion is wasted on girls that don't really appreciate it and cry when they get their hair chopped off.

But I am excited for Bravo's Make Me A Supermodel... it has high fashion and the photos turn out great. It lacks that America's Next Top Model drama.

But nonetheless, I give the winner of this round to...

Bravo!

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

Update: I didn't like the change to judging on Make Me A Supermodel. What the heck happened to getting rid of the calling in part? I am hopeful that it'll get better [as I cringe].

The Fashion Breakdown .64

Happy March everyone! Alrighty lets get right into it!

I had recently paid a visit to a traveling boutique show. [I'm told it's the first of its kind in the US.] Jessica's Traveling Boutique is the name of the company and Jessica O'Neill is the founder. Currently, she serves the Hawaii area but is expanding after the recent success of her first showing in the continental US.

Type_ The garments sold at her boutique are on trend with what's going on with the fashion world. Monthly, Jessica O'Neill flies to LA and NYC to visit a variety of wholesalers to make sure that she is current and shopping for potential customers.

The garments that I saw were of high quality material with a few that caught my eye instantaneously. However, I do caution that Jessica does not purchase in bulk so quantities are limited.

Pricing_ I know many of you would think that a traveling boutique would cost a lot more than perhaps a boutique that is local and has its own store. Not so, Jessica provides competitive pricing (if not better) than boutiques or even Express. Her pricing borders that of Forever 21 and Urban Outfitters.

For all you fashionistas out there that are on a budget, finding key pieces that will arouse your interests and save you money shouldn't be a problem whatsoever.

Visit www.jessicastravelingboutique.com for more information about her next showings.

Here are some pictures that I was able to get my hands on of the garments I absolutely loved. *I apologize for the grainy quality as it was taken with my phone. Thanks to the model, Amber for modeling a few of them for me!






If you have a boutique you'd like me to visit, go ahead and email me at thefashionbreakdown@gmail.com!

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

The Fashion Breakdown .63

Here is a bootie heel that is affordable and fashion forward...

The Fashion Breakdown 63:

http://www.bakersshoes.com/

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

The Fashion Breakdown .62

Here is a new thing I'd like to introduce... it's quick tip. As apart of my blog's adjustment to time and user experience, I want to make it easier for you to get more tips and less time in reading it.

The Fashion Breakdown 62: So here are some fashion no-nos (and some yes, you better believe it!) that you need to know:

Long Gone:
1_ Paisley
2_ Chokers
3_ Baby Doll dresses/shirts
4_ Gaucho pants
5_ Fish net stockings

Whats in:
1_ Cotton Plaid Big Checkered Shirts
2_ Bootie heals
3_ Lace
4_ Cape
5_ Bright Colors!

Good Luck!

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

The Fashion Breakdown .61

Welcome back to the newly redesigned "THE FASHION BREAKDOWN." I hope you enjoy it as much as I loved redesigning it. I aimed for more of a clean look. I apologize for the delay in posts as I've been traveling extensively. It may be more weeks of winter but retailers and designers are ready for Spring 2009! Onto the latest entry...

The Fashion Breakdown 61: I know a lot of the fashionistas who read this blog are always wanting to know the latest designers out there. Here are just a few that I believe will make an impact on the coming years in fashion.

Thakoon - www.thakoon.com - Famous in his own right, Thakoon sped into the limelight after utilizing one of Spring 2009 hottest trends, prints, on Michelle Obama's convention dress. Expanding on his use of prints, Thakoon is set to make a splash this year with Jumpsuits, floral prints, bright mettalics.

Jason Wu - www.jasonwu.com - Chosen as one of Elle's Top Designer to look out for, Jason Wu has made a huge impact in the fashion industry beating many top designers in a bid to make a dress for Michelle Obama's first inaugural ball. He has a fresh eye and definitely one of my picks.

Devi Kroell - www.devikroell.com - Already synonymous with accessories and shoes, Devi Kroell has made a huge splash in the fashion world with her first ready-to-wear line. Her shoes are reminescent of Jimmy Choos and Manolo Blahniks, whimsical and flirty.

Now I usually can't end a post with just designers to look out for... so as a bonus, make sure you check out tip 62!

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

The Fashion Breakdown .60

So this posting is inspired by all my girls and to all that are still trying to get that LBD. Little Black Dress. Surprisingly, a lot women don't have one. And so I thought I'd delve into why and the concerns about the little black dress.

The Fashion Breakdown 60: I thought to myself, the little black dress is a staple in a woman's wardrobe. Like a bra and slips. So why is it that most women don't even have one? Well a lot of it has to do with 1) versatility (in settings), 2) shape (for the ever changing body), 3) price, and 4) material (comfortability).

So I started a bit of research and happened to catch that Coco Chanel movie. The little black dress was created for all body types. Here are my rules to the finding your little black dress:

1) Know your body type!!! (see here)
2) The ideal length should end right above the knees.
3) Ruching is encouraged in select areas depending on the body type.
4) Pleating in the waistline can you make you look fat.
5) Jersey, velvet, pleather dresses = NO!
6) For a multi-use dress, consider empire or a-line dresses
7) Belts for cinching or broches are good for changing a dress from casual to evening
8) Weight should NEVER be an issue as to not having one.
9) Little Black Dresses are usually never on sale at major department stores. Look at the smaller retail stores (i.e. White House-Black Market).
10) Colors other than BLACK on a black dress isnt really considered a "little black dress".

So I've gathered a few picks for each body type:

Straight_ Look1, Look2, Look3

Pear_ Look1, Look2, Look3

Hourglass_ Look1, Look2, Look3

Apple_ Look1, Look2, Look3

Full bust_ Look1, Look2, Look3

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

The Fashion Breakdown .59

Happy Holidays Everyone! I've been on again off again sick due to the harsh weather. In this edition of the Fashion Breakdown, I'm giving a review of a boutique I visited recently. Perhaps if you are looking for gifts this season and happen to be in the gaslamp/downtown San Diego region, you should check this place out.

The "Society Breakdown": I recently paid a visit to the Dianne O. Atelier (between F&G St on 9th Avenue) after meeting her assistant at the FIDM private industry event.

The store is quite beautiful and provides a certain airy-ness about it. It's everything you think when it comes to a boutique. The clientele focus is a bit upscale from what a lot of you may be used to because the clothes are, yes, a bit pricey. However, as I was browsing through her selection, you could tell that many of them are fashion forward and unique pieces. If you are looking for items that closely resemble that on the runway, then this is the place to get it. The pricing is a median between department stores to stores on Rodeo Dr. However, makeup is one of her specialties and it is affordable! I know you'll appreciate the personal shopping experience when visiting Dianne O.'s Atelier.

My only criticisms is that the location of the shop is away from that of Horton Plaza and a lot of the other "boutiques." That is a deterrent from fashionistas that don't want to make the effort to travel out that far. Also, the boutique lacks a staple item that is San Diego... denim jeans. Granted, it is a hard to carry a range of sizes but its San Diego which is primarily an Action-Sportswear region. Premium denim could go far.

But you know Dianne O. knows her stuff when her work has appeared in Glamour, GQ and Vogue [just to name a few]. So go check it out for yourself, and who knows, you'll discover a key piece that you may like.

For more information, visit her website: www.dianneo.com.

If you have a boutique you'd like me to visit, go ahead and email me at thefashionbreakdown@gmail.com!

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

The Fashion Breakdown .58

Welcome back, wow, what a welcome back! I've reached my 3400+ mark! So thank you to everyone for coming back! So I'll be throwing in a few commentary pieces as part of my effort to offer my readers a glimpse into fashion events. I'll be calling this... "Society Breakdown."

As previously mentioned, I attended the FIDM San Diego Debut and a private industry FIDM open house event. Here is my review their new campus and a some up and coming designers to watch out for in the near future.

The "Society Breakdown": FIDM San Diego has relocated next to Petco Park. I got the privilege to attend their Debut show along with hundreds of aspiring fashionistas.

FIDM Campus_ The interior campus is designed by famed architect Clive Wilkinson. The campus had a mod-chic feel; utilizing vibrant colors (hues of yellow and orange), odd plastics and poly-foam-type material to add to the open ambiance. However, I felt at times, it got too Ikea for me with the odd plastics. And I would also ask, how environmentally friendly are these items? Nonetheless, that doesn't distract from the beautifully designed campus. If you ever get a chance to travel up to the 15th floor of the Cox Building the view is to die for. You get a beautiful 180 view of downtown.

I had opportunity to meet designer/FIDM instructor Nick Verreos of Bravo's Project Runway. The following are photos I managed to take during the soiree. Picture_1, Picture_2, Picture_3

FIDM Debut_ This debut was an opportunity to introduce to your competing FIDM 3rd year students. The following are up and coming designers whose pieces I fell in love with:

Hideka Minami - For her innovative use of tweed outerwear.
Jonique Washington - For her take on menswear bulky knits.
Chelsea Titzer - For her use of fringe, feathers!
Angela Avanesyan - My favorite collection of them all! Her use of soft pleats on chiffons on metallic solids.
Richard Chan - For his Eastern inspired evening-wear. I can definitely see him doing haute-couture pieces.

For video of the show please visit: FIDM Debut 2008 Much thanks to Christina Haynes for the access to FIDM and its events.

Next on my blog... Finding the perfect LBD and tuxedo suit. LBD = Little Black Dress. Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!

The Fashion Breakdown .57

These are my picks for this season's latest trends. I tried to give a bit of everything so if you're feeling bold, go for it! I know a lot people have been waiting for this comeback and I hope to not disappoint. Enjoy!

The Fashion Breakdown 57: After reviewing this season's collection, here are several trends I think will make a big impact for this fall season.

The Minimalist_ Basics is the theme for this trend. Think: grays, blacks, whites, clean and precise cuts are the look. What is this season's new black? Well the answer to that is BLACK! However, it is important to mention that minimal or simplistic does not mean boring. Look 1, Look 2, Look 3

The Curves_ Designers focused on the woman's natural curves. Many of you may not see any difference but there is actually a difference with a-line skirts taking of a more voluminous feel or jackets with puffed sleeves as small examples. Embrace your natural curvy figure. Pleating will help those who may lack in certain areas. Flaring around the waist is a common theme in this trend. Look 1, Look 2 (think Carrie Bradshaw), Look 3

The Countryside_ Think layers of tweed and velvet. Don't be afraid to even go as far as fur (faux that is!). Don't be afraid to wear tweed pantsuits and checkered pieces to work. The look concepts you will want to think of is horseback riding suits and trips to the country. Utilize those knee high boots! Look 1, Look 2, Look 3

The "tall" type_ Length length length! Waist-line high trousers and long coats and dresses overtook the runway. Now I must advise... this look are for my taller readers. For the shorter readers: long coats, extending scarves/ accessories will make up for any difference in leg length! Look 1, Look 2, Look 3

The prints_ You will notice that when it comes to adding an oomph of color in your wardrobe, designers utilized prints (some used painted prints of all sorts and others used floral type prints). Splashes of colors of tees, dresses will definitely make you stand from the crowd. Enough with the solids, incorporate some prints in your wardrobe! It's okay to be bold without making you the center of attention. Look 1, Look 2 (Love this one!), Look 3

Check back for the next fashion breakdown! Always dress to look your best (Even if it's a pair of sweats and a tee)!