event: chic chicago exhibit.

July 22, 2009 at 2:12 pm

I just spent an extraordinary afternoon at the “Chic Chicago” exhibit at the Chicago History Museum. Unfortunately the exhibit ends in a few days, but there are photos online and perhaps you will be able to swing by if you are in the Chicago area. I highly recommend seeing this collection, especially if you love designer fashion & vintage clothing.

The garments on display are by “prominent couturiers” from 1861 to 2004, including Givenchy, Balenciaga, Versace, Chanel, Dior and many more. I was especially drawn to the 1920s and 1930s designs. Fashionistas, shopaholics, socialites, designers, etc. will all enjoy this exhibit. Each garment on display has a short description with the designer, the year and the importance of the piece in the fashion industry. In addition it lists the person who wore the piece, where they wore it and a short bio.

As a designer I found the collection to be an inspiration. You might be surprised at how many of the vintage garments could be worn today and still be completely fashionable. Good design can truly be timeless. Anyone want to loan me a vintage Balenciaga?

This exhibit is only open for a few more days through either July 26th or 27th (I saw different dates listed on the museum’s website). Learn more about the exhibit at the Chicago History Museum and view photos of the collection on flickr.

Love, Pauline xoxo

Category: Events, Pauline's Personal Style
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guide: trends that are here to stay.

July 7, 2009 at 10:24 pm

I always find it a bit amusing in early July when all of the summer clearance sales are taking place (and summer officially just began in late June!).

With summer apparel being discounted to make way for fall merchandise, I thought it would be useful to take a look at the summer trends which will continue to be popular in the fall so that you can sift through all of the fabulous end-of-season sales and purchase summer apparel that can transition to your fall wardrobe.

I’ve analyzed the fall fashion runway shows and have the top trends that are here to stay for another season.

Love, Pauline xoxo

1. Studded Bliss Studs were seen all over sandals in the summer. Look for studded summer shoes (with a bit more coverage than sandals) and studded lightweight tops and tanks that can be layered under warmer pieces for the fall.

2. Bold Colors Glow Find the brightest colored apparel from summer (yes! neon is fine for fall 2009!) and wear them layered to give your fall wardrobe a vibrant look. We saw pinks, reds, greens, blues, purples and yellows!

3. Cardigans Rule Cardigans continue to rule. Grab any clearance cardigans you can find and wear them as the weather gets cooler.

4. Romancing with Ruffles Spring, summer and fall – ruffles continue to be popular. Look for tops and accessories (purses!) with ruffles that you can pair up with your fall wardrobe.

5. Egyptian Influence Fabric draping and rounded wide collars continue to be on the fashion runways. Be on the lookout for wide choker-style or bib necklaces and wear them with your fall outfits. Also look for dresses and tops with draping and rounded collars that you can pair with vests as it gets colder outside.

Category: Guides, Trends
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