CTC Fashion Blog

Fornarina Chooses Lohan

noreply@blogger.com (CTCMagazine Fashion) — Fri, 30 May 2008 00:04:00 +0000

Last week Fornarina unveiled their plans to make Lindsay Lohan the face of their Spring 2009 campaign. I want to blog what a disappointment this is to me, and many other Fornarina fans.
Fornarina, an Italian lifestyle brand, has got qualities that I find hard to find in other labels when I shop here in the US. They've got an edge, they've got statements to be made that don't come across as cheesy or cutesy, they are forward in design, they are glamorous, and they are 100% Italian. I like the brand because it is foreign, completely NOT Americanized. Fornarina's choice to put Lindsay Lohan at the forefront of their brand shocked, and even hurt me a little. I am an avid follower of Fornarina. My closet is almost entirely comprised of the stuff. I've got an addiction that I will never give up.

To me, Lohan is not a face of fashion. Lindsay Lohan is the epitome of white trash, sleezy, problematic American girl, and she's a follower. This girl hasn't set a trend in her entire life. She's got every resource at her fingertips and what does she decide to venture into? Leggings. Her own line of leggings are coming out into the market as we speak. Don't get me wrong, I love me a pair of leggings, but I wouldn't say it's the wisest of avenues, the trend will die.

Fornarina's plan is to triple their business over the next five years. As it stands in the US, Fornarina is sold only at their two flagship stores (Los Angeles and Las Vegas), and a handful of boutiques across the nation. If Fornarina wants to Americanize themselves, then I guess Lohan is their girl. The spokesperson for Fornarina, Scott Ronaldson, commented that Lohan is self- confident, dynamic and has lots of attitude. Correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't Lindsay's self-confidence and attitude issues what landed her in rehab a handful of times in the last year? Fornarina don't do it! Don't put the poster girl for American Trash on every billboard and magazine back. This girl has been given way to much credit.

Fornarina I wore you long before Lindsay wore you, and I will continue to support you. Despite Lohan getting in the way, you will always be my princess.

Check out Fornarina's Spring/Summer 08 collection at: http://www.fornarina.com/

Clinton Breaks Down the Spring Wardrobe

noreply@blogger.com (CTCMagazine Fashion) — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 00:38:00 +0000

Clinton Kelly from TLC's What Not to Wear, continutes on his treck around the US visiting Macy's stores to give fashion style advice for women with all types of body structures. He has made a credible career out of helping the modern woman with a not so savvy sense of what works today....and what works for their particular body type.

Saturday, April 6th we caught up with Kelly and enjoyed his hour long show which included a fashion show with Kelly commentary, audience questions and an in store meet and greet after the show. This is Clinton Kelly's 3rd year acting as guest editor for the Macy's HER Mailer, as well as traveling to stores throughout the year putting on the in store Fashion Events. The Seattle woman loves the advice Kelly has to offer. The proof showed in the packed event venue, with standing room only for the late comers.

As usual, Clinton Kelly sticks to his 5 fashion must Do's, but updates them each season. These tips are the foundation of a great working wardrobe.
1. Great fitting bra and undergarmets are a necessity.

2. Tailor your purchases. Most garments will not fit a woman's body perfectly off the rack, but a good tailor will make the piece work impeccably.

3. Find a great fitting NON ATHLETIC shoe. Flats are great for the spring, and can be worn with jeans, trousers and skirts.

4. Jacket Jacket Jacket. Every needs one (or more) great fitting jacket. A jacket can accentuate the waist, and can cover a belly or any other impefection. Hot styles now are cropped swing jackets, or cropped trench jackets that can be worn all year round.

5. Upgrade the wardrobe with a great fitting jean (throw AWAY those mommy jeans) and a few simple colorful blouses. These items can be worn over and over throught spring, and will look great with the jacket and flats previously recommended.

I was able to quickly chat with Clinton Kelly (whom I adore by the way, cute thing he is) and wanted to know what his takes were on men's fashion. He spends 100% of his career wardrobing woman and I was curious to know what his favorite trends were on men's style for spring. Men need help to! I think my question caught him off guard, and he wasn't able give me a great men trend, but did mention his wardrobe staples are Rock and Republic jeans, Etro t-shirts and Zegna clothing (all of which are available at Saks Fifth Avenue).

I also asked for a quick 'Messed Up" or 'Dressed Up' commentary and here were his answers.

Amy Winehouse- "Loves her"
Kanye West- "Loves Him"
Howard Stern- "Not so much"
John Mellencamp- "I don't even know what he looks like"
Willie Nelson- "Needs a Makover"

Clinton...I heart you.

Do Wino and Cavalli Make a Match?

noreply@blogger.com (CTCMagazine Fashion) — Fri, 04 Apr 2008 05:16:00 +0000

Word had it Roberto Cavalli is interested in Amy Winehouse as a muse. Cavalli has always been able to please the ladies of high fashion: Madonna, Beyonce, Victoria Beckham, and now would like to add Wino to the list. But what give's here? This girl has some style and amazing potential we know, but she can barely manage to keep her shit together, let alone be the face of Cavalli's empire.
It does indeed seem a good fit. Winehouse has the body for the sleek sharp cuts, wild prints, and she could use some constant direction. Amy Winehouse is one lucky biotch is all I can say. Who knew an over abundance of drugs and eyeliner called for a lifetime of free designer clothing (which apparently was Cavalli's offer). She hasn't yet signed the deal, but if I were Amy, I would die for this deal, rather than die from the drugs.

Get Your Gladiator On

noreply@blogger.com (CTCMagazine Fashion) — Thu, 06 Mar 2008 22:40:00 +0000

If you're not scouring the internet for gladiator sandals now, you'd better hop on it. Gladiator sandals a KEY item for this spring. They were creating a strong influence on the trail end of last spring, and I am so happy they are back to see the sun.

There's a wide range of prices to choose from. Check out these styles below, click if you want to buy! Also check out the new collection Pierre Hardy has designed for GAP at www.gap.com. Even Old Navy has a great pair similar to the gladiators below. Good luck, i've already got mine!

Fall 08 Milan and Paris Runway Fashions

noreply@blogger.com (CTCMagazine Fashion) — Thu, 28 Feb 2008 07:36:00 +0000

Fall 08 Fashion Week in New York has wrapped up, and now the European shows are in full force. Let me share with you some of my favorite pics fresh off the Milan and Paris runways.

Fendi's opening look. A darling, wearable winter piece. A perfect Summer to Fall transition piece.

This Balmain jacket would be my fail-safe ready to hit the town outfit. Throw it over the little black dress, lets go out!

This boho glam outfit by Givenchy is an ultimate fashion statement. Very chic yet somehow looks comfortable. And i've noticed the gladiator sandal is going to be big for spring, but it looks like the trend may even carry over to fall.

NY Fashion Week Fall 08

noreply@blogger.com (CTCMagazine Fashion) — Fri, 08 Feb 2008 04:49:00 +0000

It is time again for the runway frenzy in New York City. Fall/Winter '08 Fashion Week brings a refreshing look at fall. Just as we are beginning to imagine and conjour up our Spring wardrobes, the fashion world has remined us that we can not be one season minded.

New York Fashion Week has refreshed my winter wardrobe mentality and given me enough inspiration to make the best of these remaining bitterly cold weeks still ahead. Here are my favorites looks so far. I can't wait to see what the rest of the week has in store!!

Call me crazy but I HAVE to have one of these headpieces Anna Sui showed on her ruway, to pull together her gothy bohemian theme. I'm don't know where I will wear it, but if Anna thinks a girl needs one, then a girl needs one.

Rag and Bone makes practical urban wear so impecabbly sharp and pulled togther. There really is nothing better for your wardrobe than a perfetly tailored military jacket. Wear as shown, over a dress or full high-waisted skirt. I would never have to ponder what to wear to work in the morning. Just this jacket, everyday. I WANT.

Yigal Azroel likes a girl that likes to party. What a perfect skirt to wear to every evening outing.

Erin Fetherston, isn't she charming? She creates a perfect balance between innocent girl and wordly chic. I love that she can carry the bohemian sensibilty into fall with this sweet frock paired with chunky knits.

It's a Dude Blog.

noreply@blogger.com (CTCMagazine Fashion) — Wed, 30 Jan 2008 05:04:00 +0000

You wanna know what's back? Fluorescent. That's right. You remember back in the 80's when we used to buy fluorescent leggings and sweatshirts with stupid bright shapes randomly splattered all over because we thought it was cool and radical? Well it still is! Take a look, and then BUY one of these totally tubular printed T's for the fellas. Add a little pop to your wardrobe, it's time to show the world how bright you are.

ORISUE The Ghetto Blast Tee, T-shirts for Men

Imaginary Foundation The Black Paint Peace T-Shirt, T-shirts for Men

Seventh Letter The White Vintage T-Shirt, T-shirts for Men

Triko The T Bold Plaid Eclair Tee, T-shirts for Men

aNYthing The aNYthing Logo Tee, T-shirts for Men

Give Those Tights the Boot

noreply@blogger.com (CTCMagazine Fashion) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 04:24:00 +0000

I'm excited about Spring. As much as I love the boots and the tights, the sweaters and my skinny's, hats and great coats, I too love the idea of throwing it all off! My legs and arms are ready to break free of the darling cable tights and sweater dresses, and see some sunshine for God's sake. Even if that sun is coupled with near freezing temperatures, it still feels good so shed some of that weight. I'm mostly excited for the Sexy-Dress-With-Boots season. That time of year you can dare put on a sleeveless dress, but pair it with a leather boot and you are good to go. Yes, you might want to throw on a cute little leather jacket, it is only January after all....spring hasn't sprung quite yet. Just think 'hot.'

Heatherette The Castle Dress, Dresses for Women

Try this Heatherette, The Castle Dress, with your favorite booties or flat leather boot. Seychelles make great looking, afordable shoes at great prices. Save money for more shopping!

Seychelles and BC The Under Construction Boot, Shoes for Women

Seychelles and BC The At Last Boot, Shoes for Women

BB Dakota The Portia Shift in Pink, Dresses for Women

Another cutie by BB Dakota, The Portia Shift, that I think would look darling with a comfy pair of flat brown boots, or the statement making Chartres II Boot by L.A.M.B.

All Black The Greenwich Boot, Shoes for Women

L.A.M.B. Shoes The Chartres II Boot, Shoes for Women

BB Dakota The Boon Dress, Dresses for Women

The Boon Dress by BB Dakota. Pair with a black flat suede knee-high.....and let's go dancin'!! Check this comfy pair by Sugar the Handle This Boot.

Sugar The Handle This Boot, Shoes for Women

Clinton Does Seattle

noreply@blogger.com (CTCMagazine Fashion) — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 05:34:00 +0000

On Saturday, Nov 3, 2007, Clinton Kelly from TLC's 'What Not to Wear,' visited Seattle's downtown Macy's store to host a women's plus size fashion show event. Kelly's fashion expertise draws from his journalism background, spending time as contributor and editors for Daily News Record, Marie Claire and Mademoiselle. His main gig is co-host of 'What Not to Wear,' alongside Stacy London on TLC, but his current agenda also includes a series of workshops and fashion shows across America at Macy's department stores.

During Macy's plus size fashion event, Clinton proved he really knows fashion down to a science, offering advice to women of ALL shapes and sizes. His most important tip is finding the right fit, even if it means trying on LOTS of clothes to find that right fit, or getting not so perfect fits tailored to your body. And in his opinion, the perfect wardrobe starts with a great fitting jacket.

Following the fashion show, Kelly hosted a meet and greet with his fans, posing for pictures and signing new copies of his new book of which he was co-author, Dress Your Best: The Complete Guide to Finding Style That’s Right for Your Body.

Watch Clinton Kelly co-host 'What Not to Wear,' on Fridays 9/8c.

Zip it up, Gents.

noreply@blogger.com (CTCMagazine Fashion) — Fri, 19 Oct 2007 05:43:00 +0000

Every now and then a well dressed man-about-town will catch my eye, and their look is pretty simple. A nice fitted sweatshirt, a designer jean, and a city sneaker. That's it. But for some reason this look just seems so pulled together and perfect. For almost any occasion. Whether watching a game with friends after work, taking our girl on a date, or treking it throught the city. There are however, a few key elements that make this look so complete. A understated graphic, and a nice snug fit. Here are the do's and don'ts of today's chic yet casual and comfortable look.

Do find something that fits. In YOUR size. Not too big or you look sloppy, not to small or you look desperate for a new hoodie, and got frustrated shopping and bought the first thing that would suffice as something to keep you warm.

Don't sport your oversized college hoodie (unless you are IN college) or favorite team logo. It gives of the impression of: I'm going through a divorce, or I have completely given up on looking attractive to others. Ouch, but it's the truth.

Do stay away from candy colored prints and triple XXL bad-ass-rapper hoodies. Only a bad-ass-rapper can pull them off.

Don't try to impress with a loud graphic. The most chic styles are those that look vintage, or are actually vintage.

Check out these designs:

Vintage Ten-speed Hoodie $58
http://www.redbootsdesign.com/

Monarchy Geisha Hoodie $143
http://www.revolveclothing.com/

Geisha Hoodie
www.forever21.com/mens

5 Key Trends for Fall 2007

noreply@blogger.com (CTCMagazine Fashion) — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 21:34:00 +0000

Fall Must Have Items for the Fall/Winter 2007 Season:

A Structured Jacket

A really great structured jacket is the defining piece in your fall wardrobe. Not only is it a necessity for the coming month's weather, but it will also be pulling your entire look together. Find a jacket with a cut that really flatters your shape, so that you can wear over blouses for your work day, and over a sexy shirt for evening. This is the piece of your wardrobe that others will see most, so make sure that fabulously cut jacket couples with a comfortable fit.
(Above left to right: Rag and Bone Tail Coat $454 shopbop.com, Alpha Military Jacket $150 urbanoutfitters.com, Ambition Hunter Jacket $68 nordstrom.com)

The Sweater Dress

It just doesn't get any easier to dress for fall than throwing on a cozy sweater dress. It is almost easier for me to reach for my cashmere blend sweater dress and warm leggings when getting comfortable, rather than sweatpants and a t-shirt. There are tons of selection out there, so grab different styles in various colors. Throw on a pair of tights and flats, knee high boots or booties, a scarf, and you're good to go!
(Above left to right: Ella Moss Cashmere Tunic Sweater Dress $318 shopbop.com, Kensie Dress $88 nordstrom.com, Twelve by Twelve Keyhole Sweater Dress (back) $24 twelvebytwelve.com)

Plaids

There's something about this time of year that brings out my inner school girl. Plaids are sophisticated and smart. And luckily, plaid is everywhere: jackets, coats, blouses, dresses and head-wear. Just one piece in your outfit will turn on the prep, and give others something to think about.
(Above left to right: L.A.M.B Plaid Dress $385 shopbop.com, Kimchi and Blue Plaid Dress $48 urbanoutfitters.com, Forever 21 Plaid Jumper $18 forever21.com)

Leg Wear

Tights and leggings are the new jeans. Fall calls for something a little more grown up than your standard jeans and trousers routine. There are so many stockings or leggings to choose from. Cable knits, metallic, opaque, crochet, stripes....would you like me to go on? A darling dress, black tights and heels will elongate any leg. Yes, girls under 5'9 included! And the longer the legging, the leggier you will appear.
(Above left to right: Rachel Pally Ribbed Super Long Legging $94 shopbop.com, Sparkle and Fade Leggings $18 urbanoutfitters.com, American Apparel Shiny Stirrups $14 americanapparel.net)

Booties

Booties.....my favorite trend for fall. There is just nothing sexier than the bootie, in any sense of the word!. Worn over a pair of stockings, leggings, with skinny jeans or a dress, you just can not go wrong. No one will second guess a girl wearing a fierce pair of booties. Wearing them takes a girl with some attitude, so show some courage and grab a pair, or two! There are some really beautiful booties out there!
(Above left to right: Frye Boots $247.95 nordstrom.com, Ash Lace-up Bootie $185 urbanoutfitters.com, Rampage Suede Bootie $68 piperlime.com)

Tory Burch Alexis Patent Gladiator Sandal

Tory Burch brings her signature chic to the gladiator we've been craving.Patent-leather gladiator sandal with logo discs at upper and buckle closure at ankle strap. Rubber sole.Made in Brazil.This item cannot be gift-boxed.