I don’t know why, but finding these illustrations came as a shock to me. These were created in the 1950’s or 60’s. I remember when Vogue did an article about racism in fashion. One thing that people pointed out (other than the fact there were no black Vogue Editors since the launch of the magazine) is that the occurrence of black models and designers are scarce in the industry.  Based on that and my own observations, I just didn’t expect to find illustrations in WWD archives of black models. Maybe I shouldn’t be that way. I just assumed because of the way things were back then, publications wouldn’t really permit black fashion images to be circulated. All I know is that no matter what obstacles minorities have faced in the past and present, somehow someone sees us for what we are……AMAZING ICONS OF FASHION!!!!! PEACE OUT!

Hello,

With fashion month upon us, I just had to start my trend book for 2014. Yes, I have a couple of books that I keep my own personal collection of trends in. I may cut pictures out and paste to pages, or just clip magazine pages of random clothes, and then I create a trend book. Sometimes I remember sometimes I don’t… this is why one of my new year’s resolutions was to be more consistent, but I digress. Let’s move along to my first prediction….THE PLASTIC PURSE.

YES LADIES AND GENTLEFOLK,

The plastic purse is definitely going to be trending either for this summer or summer 2015/16. The reason why I’ve chosen this item is because it’s been a while since I’ve seen it in the fashion cycle. I happened upon this trend while doing my research. Plastic purses with these structures and made of this tough plastic-like material, is spacious, versatile in design, and very well…NOW. They’re very vintage yet modern.  With the emergence of 3-D printers (oh, and I will be doing a report on those soon and how they will revolutionize the fashion industry), it’s bound to make a comeback and take center stage in the handbag market. Maybe these designs seem a bit old school, but that’s precisely why I chose them. I want you to see the originals.  Maybe someone out there will get inspired and recreate some models to usher in the new era of technology (which is the 3-D printer) *wink*. The material for the plastic purse can be manipulated into any shape, pattern, color and maybe even texture. I love it, and I look forward to posting more modern pics in the future. Some new era examples, because if in the 1960’s they produced this, then imagine what the designers of today can do! We Shall See ;)

I’ve always loved the Rodarte Sisters. Their designs are so distinct and sexy. This season, I love the homage they paid to the 80’s and the mid-west. Lets start with the color palette; beautiful metalics, sexy animal prints, and even a combination of the two. There where lovely fabrics in soft silky textures, as well as floral fabrics with lustrous sheen. The flannel shirts where sexy and I loved the way they only closed the top, so gangsta. The design accents flattered the 80’s silhouettes nicely; fringe hanging from the asymmetrical cuts of the dresses, wide studded belts on the hip with suspenders to match. There where lots of masculine elements to the collection too; the combination of blazers and hip high Bermuda shorts where sexy yet adorable and the shoes; masculine too, and cowboy style. Speaking of adorable, the layered flounces on the dresses where so cute and wearable. Flounces, Asymmetrical skirts, dangling fringe, scorpions, and blazers with small lapels… you can’t get more 80’s then that! The accessories with the locks on them in my opinion symbolized the longevity of the 80’s era. Golden locks for the golden era of punk and funk! That’s why at the end of the show (which was tre tre fabulous!) the beat for eyes without a face played. The whole production of the fashion show was creative and fun. Even the themed screamed 80’s with that kind of tube lighting on the floor…sweet. All and all, I would give this collection a thumbs up, but what do you think? Comment and let me know ;)

I’m always researching fashion….so tell me why out of the blue, I decided to research BRAZIL? Yes, Brazil of all places. In terms of fashion; Brazil is the number one manufacturer of Denim, has 33,114 companies that are fashion focused, it’s the worlds 5th largest textile producer, the 4th largest apparel producer, and has an annual turnover of 15 billion dollars a year (based on US import and export for apparel). This is just the tip of the Iceberg in terms of fashion for Brazil; I’m more interested in their overall fashion scene. I have a tendency to compare any fashion capitol with warm weather to Miami. I know I shouldn’t, but Miami fashion is like no other; its booming, energetic, sexy, modern, and sun-kissed. Brazil is the same, but to me the culture is more enriched. There is a certain consistency in their fashion in terms of color, fabrics, and design. Colors tend to be more bright, even when earth tones are used. The designs of the clothing tend to be sexier with cuts being sleek and “body hugging”. That’s what I like about women’s wear in Brazil. They appreciate all body types especially curvy ones.

Brazil is THE hot spot for denim production; I don’t get why I’m not seeing more well known denim collections booming out of Brazil. Maybe they do but the collections haven’t surfaced in the U.S as of yet? Who knows? One thing’s for sure though, the modeling talent. Some of the most beautiful fashion models are from Brazil. One that comes to mind is the famous Victoria Secret Model Adriana Lima. She is just one of the many models that grace the runways during fashion week. I’ve had the great opportunity to write about a few Brazilian designers who showcased their work at Miami fashion week. It was quite interesting. Their inspirations come from real life experiences, such as Carnival! (of course), the beautiful mountains, beaches, and people. Religion plays a role too in reference to design focus. Brazil IS the country to watch. The beautiful people, delicious food, booming economy, and of course FASHOIN! I will attend Fashion Week Brazil someday! I can’t wait!