Tribute to Dukes Up

Love Letters: Philly

Graffiti artist, Steve Powers, was asked to use his hobby for good in Philadelphia. Fifty murals were painted by forty artists on walls and roofs of buildings along the train lines in the city. The theme: Love Letters to the City. I think this is a really interesting concept... making the city more beautiful with words and images that will make a positive impact on people. Very cool. Oh and they're making a book to go along with the project... looks like I have a new one for my shelf.

Inspiration: Tim Burton's Alice and Wonderland

I don't think it's a coincidence that these advertisements are all in the magazines right now... I cannot wait to see this movie!

"And if you go chasing rabbits

You know you're going to fall"

-Jefferson Airplane

My Favorite: Billy Reid

Southern bred William Reid creates the most amazing clothing for both men and women. I first found the bricks-and-mortar Billy Reid in Charlotte, NC two or three years ago, during its opening month. I was instantly impressed with the actual retail location. The shops are so homey, luxurious, and nostalgic. Walls are covered with bookshelves, family heirlooms, and pictures of people who long ago left our world. Each of his stores that I've visited have been unique and beautiful. They're the kind of stores you wouldn't mind staying in all day, purely because of the aesthetic. But the main temptation is the beautiful clothes. It is evident that quality is Billy's main priority: the rich fabrics and attention to detail give you plenty of reasons to buy, buy, buy. I absolutely love his women's and men's clothing. Check him out, and if you're ever in New York, check out his flagship store on Bond street. However, for the true Southern Hospitality experience... check out his headquarters and flagship store in Florence, Alabama. Wherever you go... just go check him out, please, please, please. You'll love him, too.

"Sweet Home Alabama" -Lynyrd Skynyrd

Spring 2010 Trends Presented by: David Wolfe

Wednesday I had the privilege to hear Mr. David Wolfe, the fashion forecaster with Donegar Group, speak in Dallas. I had seen him speak three years ago, but I had totally forgotten how funny he is (oh and he's extremely talented, too). He gave a presentation on the major trends for Spring 2010... and he reminded us to remember to think about the "BIG PICTURE". Here it goes, sorry if my notes are a little crazy... I was using the book, Jane Eyre, as my notebook:
First: the new trends are going to be seen in silhouette, color, and fabric rather than in prints or decades (like we've seen this summer and fall).

Shoulders are going to be emphasized!

White is the new Black!

Fabric Manipulation is going to be everywhere creating surface interest.

Draping!

Knots and Twists!

Ruffles!

Neutrals are going to be huge, too... think cosmetic shades.

Things that feel like luxury... ex. leather, suede, fur

Oh yeah, if you don't have any fur accessories... you need to get some.

Sex appeal is going soft. Think femininity, softness, and frills.

Rainbow colors are going to jump start retailing again!
Barbie turned 50 this year... HOT PINK will be big
Pastels are going to be around too!
We'll be pairing color with color... think YSL...

Denim will be used in a new way...