Sweet n’Raw does Chictopia, Halloween edition!

5 Seriously Stylish Costumes You’ll Maybe See This Halloween

October is coming to an end and you know what that means. Halloween is just around the corner! The one night of the year where silly, slutty, and even plush dressing are more mandatory than optional. Come October 31st, millions of human (and canine) souls transform themselves into all kinds of monsters, characters and strange, never seen before, walking objects.

After deciding what party to attend, we all ask ourselves the same question: “What am I going to be this Halloween?” For some, deciding on a costume involves a trip to the supermarket (the shiny, ill-fitting devil jumpsuit comes to mind). For others, playing it safe is the way to go, you can’t go wrong with last year’s costume, right? Some like it sexy, some like it way sexy (NC17 sexy), some like it big (Teletubbies and Sponge Bobs) and some, like us, like it stylish. The runway is a great source of inspiration and since designers usually get inspired by films, paintings, movements and eras, you will be getting a lot more than you bargained for.

For this Halloween, here are five different costumes, all catwalk inspired:

CATWOMAN
You might be thinking: “Been there, done that.” The Catwoman costume has been around for years and it’s an all-time favorite among the ladies and among the gentlemen too (never underestimate the seductive power of a latex jumpsuit). This year, Selina Kyle’s sexy attire got the ultimate makeover thanks to Christopher Nolan: The Dark Knight Rises. Yes, we remember Michelle Pfeiffer’s shiny spandex number with the rough, white stitches. We also remember (even if the movie was more forgettable than memorable) Halle Berry’s midriff baring, bondage version. But this year, it’s all about Anne Hathaway’s sophisticated leather ensemble. Some branded it simple and gray (compared to the previous catsuit owners), some found it too high-tech but to us, to us it’s sexy meets classy all the way. Plus, she had boots, leathery and soft thigh-high boots!

→ As seen at: Mugler F/W 2012
As expected, a movie that creates that much buzz serves often as an inspiration for fashion designers around the globe. One of the biggest trends this fall is definitely the leather on leather look, and if you ask us, that has Selina Kyle written all over.

Going for sexy kitten this Halloween? Here’s what you’ll need:
– You don’t need the full bodysuit to pull it off, a simple leather jacket and a pair of liquid leggings will do the trick.
– Thigh or ankle boots? Your choice, just make sure the heel is high and hot.
– Catwoman would never go out without her ears and mask. Don’t have any? You can do them yourself.
– Don’t forget the gloves!
– Last but not least, you’ll be needing bright and luscious red lips!

1. Cuff, Marc Jacobs / 2. Cat mask, Party Packs / 3. Red lipstick, Armani# / 4. Leather top, Balmain / 5. Leather gloves, Agent Provocateur / 6. Ankle boots, Zara / 7. Leather pants, Helmut Lang

DAISY BUCHANAN
The waiting is killing us and the trailers and the pictures are not helping at all. Baz Luhrmann’s The Great Gatsby is one of the most expected movies, not only because of the impressive cast line-up, the brilliant direction and the 1920’s settings, but also because it has a high dose of fabulous fashion (thanks Miuccia the Great). This Halloween, thousands of ladies out there will be channeling the lovely Daisy Buchanan. But it’s different this time, forget about your black and boring H&M dress with the fringes, the long pearl necklace with a knot, the black and white feather boa and the straw/cigarette holder. The Great Gatsby has gotten the glamour treatment and it’s all about the bling. Embellished flapper dresses, metallic fringe ones, sequins and rhinestones, feather shrugs, deco jewelry and baroque headpieces are some of the items you can choose to take the Glam Gatsby Girl to a whole new level. Need some pointers? Just take a look at the trailer.

→As seen at: Marchesa S/S 2012
Almost everyone, from Gucci and Ralph Lauren to Marchesa and Alberta Ferretti, had 1920’s inspired collections on Spring 2012. The Gatsby fever was unleashed and now that we are getting closer to the movie premiere, the fever will be getting higher and higher for sure.

Will you be Daisy B. this Halloween? Here’s what you’ll need:
– Embellished, embroidered and shiny dresses are all over the stores right now. From River Island and Zara, to Net-a-Porter, choose the shape and length that suits you the most.
– For a chilly night, a faux fur scarf or a feather shrug will match your pretty dress to perfection.
– Whether you go for a rhinestone comb or a feather fascinator, the headpiece is a must.
– Want to take it up a notch? Deco necklaces and embellished cuffs are just what you need.
– For the shoes, t-straps or a delicate Mary Jane

1. Feather shrug, Alexander McQueen / 2. Deco necklace, 1928 / 3. Sequin dress, Michael Kors / 4. Box clutch, Reiss / 5. Hair comb, John Lewis / 6. Sandals, Topshop

PRETTY PRINCESS
A girl never stops dreaming about being a princess, we still hold a grudge towards Kate Middleton for actually becoming one. And while our tiaras (because we have a tiara stashed somewhere) can’t come to work with us, we sure can take them out to play on Halloween night. The Princess costume doesn’t have to be the supermarket one with the wrinkled polyester dress nor the adult version (the one with the thigh.high socks, the x-rated hem and the perspex, stripper platforms). You can take Princess to a fashionable and classy land, and still look all costumed-up. You’ll look like you just came out of a fairy tale, not from a nightmare called “The Gentleman’s Club”.

→ As seen at: Oscar de la Renta
For Fall, some designers went all out. One of the strongest trends of the season was opulence. Jewelry became part of dresses and jackets, embellishments and embroideries were all over lavish prints and beautiful shapes.

What you’ll need:
– The long, puffy dress is not mandatory. For a fun twist, choose a full skirt, mini dress. Jacquard and brocade always have that royal touch.
– A pair of embellished pumps will complement your look perfectly.
– For the jewelry, go for a statement necklace with gems
– Gloves are optional, but they do make it all cuter
– The tiara, well there’s no costume without one

1.Tiara, Debenham’s / 2.Pendant necklace, Dolce & Gabbana / 3.Lace gloves, Forzieri / 4.Dress, Alexander McQueen / 5.Box clutch, Zara / 6.Embellished pumps, Moschino Cheap & Chic

ARMY BRAT
Cargo pants, an olive green tank and combat boots? Yeah, that’s as common and overrated as a costume can get (even if you painted your cheeks to channel Rambo). Army costumes don’t have to be boring, especially with the military trend invasion this fall, we have a ton of props and items to play with. Forget about the parka and get that sharp, tailored coat you’ve been eyeing for a while now. It’s not about camouflage anymore, it’s all about old school military!

→ As seen at: Moschino
Moschino, Burberry and Topshop Unique all have one thing in common: the made military as chic as possible. This Fall, utilitarian dressing is part of the trend heaven.

What you’ll need:
– Topshop has a wide range of military coats: different styles, different lengths, different textures.
– Underneath your coat, wear some retro army shorts and a button down (make it sheer for a fun twist).
– For the boots, the higher the better, the heel and the length.
– Flat caps are not costume material only, they look rad with a pair of skinny jeans and a biker jacket (you won’t regret splurging on one of this).
– The final touch? Leather gloves and aviators

1. Flat cap, Hollywood Training Co. / 2. Aviator sunglasses, Cutler and Gross / 3. Leather gloves, Todd Lynn / 4. Coat, Topshop / 5. Shorts, Matthew Williamson / 6. Boots, Roland Mouret / 7. Belt, Gap

ANNA KARENINA
Another costume idea from the film industry. This December, brace yourselves for the movie based on Leo Tolstoy’s Anna Karenina. Keira Knightley and costume designer, Jacqueline Durran have alredy given us a glimpse of what will be in store for us once the movie is out. In the meantime, why not channel the Russian aristocrat for Halloween? When it comes to Russian aristocracy, it’s all about the heavy bling, the heavy dresses and some serious fur (faux fur for us, of course).

→ As seen in: Valentino CTR F/W 2012
Russia has been buzzing in the Fashion world for a while now, not only because of their characteristic opulence and lavish style, but also because they are becoming stronger and stronger in the fashion department. This season, it’s all about rich fabrics, embellished garments and statement pieces and Leo Tolstoy’s heroine is all about that.

Going for a Russian aristicrat vibe? Here’s what you’ll need:
– A ball gown (your prom dress will do).
– A statement necklace. Anna Karenina loved layering them over lavish couture.
– The dressy coat
– A furry stole and a hat

1. Fur scarf, BCBG / 2. Necklace, Dolce & Gabbana / 3. Fedora, Juicy Couture / 4. Coat, Oscar de la Renta / 5. Dress, Zac Posen

There you go! Five costume inspirations that are for the stylish heart. What’s your costume of choice this year?

Image sources:
net-a-porter
topshop
polyvore
farfetch
pinterest

Sweet n’Raw does Chictopia vol. 11

 

Never, since I started the blog, had I gone sans posting for more than 10 days. I broke my record, I did 16 and I blame it on the wi-fi. I’m not gonna give you 1000 excuses, I’m just gonna make it up to you. I still have a bunch of runway reviews (even if posting them seems a little out of time) and new trends and series in the oven. Today I have for you another one of my Chictopia collaborations. They gave me the topic and this is what I delivered. Hope you like it!

The Hottest Ways to Wear Leather This Fall (Plus Extra Leather Essentials)

There’s no summer without sun, there’s no fall without leather. That is an unquestionable truth. Leather may have made the leap into the S/S collections a few seasons ago, but there is no doubt that when it comes to A/W, it is definitely the king.

When it comes to leather, just when you think you might have seen it all, along comes a new season. For Fall 2012, leather was a constant in almost every collection presented on the runway: Valentino made it ladylike, Thakoon injected some color in it, Tibi went all shiny disco ball and tired of wool, and Marni made coats out of leather. Craving to get some leather goodies this fall? Here’s all you need to know!

LEATHER ON LEATHER
→ As seen in: Valentino
1. Top, Maje 2. Cardigan, Marni 3. Shorts, Haute Hippie 4. Ankle boots, Burberry 5. Trousers, J Brand

It may sound dangerous, it may sound bolder than bold, but layering leather over more leather is one of the strongest trends this season. No, we are not asking you to look like you just got lost from the Sons of Anarchy set. No, we are not asking you to raid the Undertaker’s closet. No, we don’t want you channeling the Village People’s leather dude. And no, there is not a handbook on how to pull it off and how to avoid that Matrix Reloaded look. There may not be a formula, but here are some tips that can help us along the way:

– Go for solid garments. Textures, embroidery and embellishments may book you a ticket to the land of tacky, where Snooki is Queen.
– It’s not mandatory to go all black, you can color-block. Try putting together shades with a similar intensity: rusty with rusty, bright with bright, neutral with neutral and so on.
– Go for feminine or simple shoes. Thinking of adding a chunky boot? That’s Sons of Anarchy all the way.
→ THE LOOK: We put together a jersey top with a leather peplum and a pair of skintight leggings. To add more drama, a statement pendant and a pair of black pumps with multiple straps.

COLORED LEATHER
→ As seen in: Thakoon
1. Bag, Proenza Schouler 2. Jacket, Balmain 3. Skirt, Karl 4. Dress, Richard Nicoll 5. Ankle boots, Chloé

The Summer nostalgia is always around, no more leg flashing, no more lightweight fabrics and welcome heavy garments. What better way to cheer us up on those gray and gloomy days, than with a pop of color. We all know that a good, black biker jacket is an all-time wardrobe basic and that those black liquid leggings are a Fall must-wear. But we also know that in Fashion, you gotta think outside the box. And there, outside that box, is where we will find some fabulous and show-stopping colored leather. From bright pink leggings and bottle green jackets to royal blue shift dresses, leather just got a bright and fun makeover this Fall.

– You can choose to color-block (it doesn’t get better than a pair of bright blue pants and a pink blazer) or you can go for mute shades to make your leather item pop.
– Colorful, leather accessories can be the perfect twist for your outfit.
– A pair of Oxblood skinny pants or a bright biker jacket are staples for your closet this Fall.
– Don’t be afraid of adding fun details. Leather can be strong, but sometimes, just the right amount of leopard can make the whole thing work.
→ THE LOOK: We paired up the Oxblood leather pants with a Western embroidered shirt (another big trend this season thanks to the always chic, Isabel Marant). It’s an interesting contrast and the leopard slingbacks just make the ensemble more fun.

LEATHER SKIRTS
→ As seen in: Creatures of the Wind
1.Circle, Markus Lupfer 2. Colored, DKNY 3. Mini, Mango 4. Pleated, Miu Miu 5. Pencil, E Luxe

Forget about the bodycon leather skirt that has been hanging inside your closet for years now. New shapes, lengths and styles are in the house! The pleated one was already a bestseller last Fall (raise your hand if you are the proud owner of the Zara version) and this season, it’s making a comeback. The circle skirt is both edgy and feminine at the same time and pencil ones just scream sexy. The colored and metallic versions are fun twists to classic black. And last but not least, a leather mini is always welcome!

– With leather skirts, possibilities are endless. You can go for a button-down and a blazer for a clean and dressy look. You can pair them up with a t-shirt and Converse for a casual ensemble.
– A match made in trend heaven: mini skirts and graphic sweatshirts. Sweatshirts are the new black.
– For the shoes, add some edge with a pair of booties.
→ THE LOOK: A simple look with some special details thanks to the studs from the skirt and the graphic print on the sweatshirt .

MORE FALL LEATHER ESSENTIALS
1. Coat, Marni 2. Skirt, Balmain 3. Sweatshirt, DKNY 4. Top, Maje 5. Trousers, Mango

– Leather coats: Whether is long and black, fire red and glossy, a trench or coat with leather accents, you are going to want one of this babies hanging inside your closet.
– Quilted leather: Balmain mastered the art of quilting for Fall 2012 and while a lucky few can afford their $3,000 skirts, we are just as happy with Zara’s version of them.
– Combined garments: A sweatshirt with leather sleeves? A skirt with leather panels? Garments with a texture combo are a must-have this season.
– Leather trousers: From Cavalli’s leggings to Theyskens’ Theory’s slouchy pants, the Fall 2012 runways were flooded with leather bottoms.
– Metallic leather: Shiny leather? Need we say more?

Which leather trend is your favorite this Fall? We love and want them all!

Illustrations: Ana Sofia

Image sources:
net-a-porter
mango
style
mytheresa

Seven Deadly Sins, Blogger Edition: 1. Criminal Bags

Afternoon, my sweet readers! After three days of reviews from the Spring 2013 runways, it’s time for a fun break! Remember how a few posts ago I talked to you about the Seven Deadly Sins: Blogger edition series? If not, click HERE to read all about it. Today I have for you the first sin. As I told you before, I am constantly browsing the internet, searching for new blogs, new styles, new faces. When it comes to my research, I’m all about first impressions: I like what I see, I keep coming back. You know how we all have our turn-offs (my little brother won’t call a girl again if she wears a poncho to a date, I stopped answering the phone to a guy because he wore velcro sandals, my momma once stood up a guy who showed up to pick her up wearing tight overalls and a belt)? Well I kind of have a lot of turn offs when it comes to personal style bloggers. Today, we are gonna talk about one of them.

Has it ever happened to you that you open the post because you like what you see. She is wearing a gorgeous blazer, she paired it up with a beautiful silk shirt, she is sporting Zara’s new brocade trousers and just as you are about to comment on her flawless look, you stomach cringes at the sight of her choice of bag: SHE IS WEARING A JUICY COUTURE, PINK, DIRTY, WORN-OUT TERRY TOTE! That’s it for me, I am never to return to that blog and that flawless outfit I saw before, now looks dirty and worn-out like her purse.

It’s not a matter of owning pricey bags, not all of us are Tina from Bag Snob. The brand doesn’t matter, it doesn’t matter if it’s new or old, it doesn’t matter if you got it at a Flea Market or in a posh, 5th Avenue boutique. It’s a matter of taste, it’s a matter of recognizing that even if it cost a bit, it might not be wearable anymore. Believe it or not, this sin has its branches and we have five of them (keep reading at your own risk):

PUBERTY RELICS: You know that first designer bag you owned, the one that your momma gifted you on your 15th b-day? The mini Burberry? The mini LV with the classic monogram? The pink terry Juicy Couture tote? The Coach mini hobo? In case you are curious, I was gifted the mini Burberry and I hold on to it as a great memory. Do I use it? No, I don’t, not anymore. It’s too small for me, I’m too old for it, it’s a bag for a 14 year old, for God’s sake! Sure, it cost more than 4 of my Zara totes but that doesn’t mean I look less ridiculous wearing it. It’s so cool to write on a post “I’m wearing the mini Chanel 2.55 I found on the vintage shop” or “I’m wearing my mom’s old Judith Leiber”. It’s so not cool to write the following: “I’m wearing my Juicy Couture tote, it’s kind of vintage but it works with my outfit”. No it doesn’t! It’s dirty, it looks dated (in a bad way), it’s not vintage (20 years ago Juicy Couture was not even around) and guess what? It just ruined your entire look. That Hermes Kelly that your momma purchased 30 years ago is Vintage, your mini monogrammed Coach hobo (purchased 7 years ago) is nothing but old trash.

FROM THE LAND OF TACKY: I know you’ve seen them, I know your eyes burned at the sight of them (mine did too): Introducing the cheesy as hell, corset top purse. They come in different colors and textures: lace, velour, even vinyl (let’s gasp together). You can even score a number with feathered cleavage (more gasping).  And like those, you can find the Taco bag, the pink leopard furry tote, the “I look good on Snooki and J Woww” purse and so on. Remember this quote from that purse party scene on SATC? “Someone should tell crazy that owning a hot glue gun does not make you a hot purse designer.” Amen sister, amen!

IT’S NOT GUCCI, IT’S GUCCIO: Not everyone can afford a $2000 bag, so we have three choices: save up until you can afford it, purchase that suede bag from Zara that’s really pretty and not a month’s worth of salary, or venture into fake territory (otherwise known as Chinatown) to get a plastic-covered knock-off, spending the same amount as the Zara bag, but getting the $2000 “twin”. If you chose the third option and think you are smart because you got that bag for less, you are wrong, dead wrong! Fake bags can be spotted from an airplane (even the smallest detail gives them away), fake bags are illegal (good luck passing through a Charles de Gaulle security checkpoint with your Speedy knock-off), and last but not least, fake bags fall apart (details are rarely stitched, they are glued). So here’s my advice:

• To the fake Birkin costumer: A Birkin bag is made from crocodile (crocodiles are raised by Hermes, in Australia, for the sole purpose of becoming bags and leather goods). A Birkin bag is made by a single, trained craftsman (training lasts years). Having the money will not give you access to a bag, waiting lists are eternal (2 years tops). Your fake has no crocodile leather, it has no craftsman stitching and probably has a totally different shade of orange.
• To the fake McQueen box clutch costumer: since the bag is pure work of art, everything from the clasp to the inside fabric will scream knock-off.
• To the fake LV bag costumer: it’s the lock and the handles that usually give it away.
• To the fake Chanel 2.55 costumer: It’s the chain, it’s the quilting and of course, the logo.

Getting away with fake is like getting away with murder, not really possible.

YOU ARE SO FAKE, YOU DON’T EVEN EXIST: Let me tell you a story… A few years ago, the daughter of a Mexican President arrived to a lavish event sporting her brand new Louis Vuitton Murakami bag. Why did she have to offer her apologies later to the French brand? Not only was her bag a fake, she was sporting a sort of “knock-off” of a style never seen or designed by Louis Vuitton. If you are going to sin and buy a fake, at least make sure that brand actually carries that model.

GUESS BAGS: Need I say more?

I always like to end this bloodbaths of mine with something constructive. Fashion is not about pricey garments, it’s not about being able to afford an $8000 total look. You’ve got more style if you wear a Fruit of the Loom t-shirt with that Birkin bag. You get more credit for finding that vintage Prada, hidden under a pile of clothes in a small shop than for entering the Vittorio Emanuele boutique and purchasing the latest style. Saving up to buy that dreamy Mulberry is an investment, buying the Chinatown knock-off is definitely a loss.

Wear what you want because you like it. Never wear something because of what it cost. Never wear something because of a logo. Never wear something because everyone else is wearing it too. Style is about creativity, not about a budget.

That’s it for today, the massacre is over! Tomorrow we will resume our runway reviews from NYFW! Coming up next, London town baby!

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations and cover photo: Ana Sofia Alanis

Bag photos: Google.com

This are personal opinions with a touch of sarcasm. Don’t like, don’t read…

 

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

NYFW COVERAGE: Lady likes the bondage

And just as we were coming to terms with the fact that Summer is about to end, sandals are to be stored and left to dust inside those “open till next season” drawers and tans will begin to fade, here comes NYFW, ruining it all by having us crave the sunny and warm weather even more. I’ve stated this before and I will state it again (even is the Fall 2012 collections really warmed up to me), I’m a S/S girl, always have, always will be. There’s nothing like lightweight fabrics, cheery colors (I’m absence of black girl, remeber?) and skin-flashing coming down a FW catwalk. Spring 2013 has been so far so good, even if we’ve only had three days of shows.  NYC never disappoints and below you’ll find proof. Here they are, Sweet n’Raw’s first five Spring 2013 runway reviews and first Fashion Week look. Ready?

JASON WU Spring 2013

Jason Wu’s Spring 2012 show was unforgettable and one of prettiest of NYFW (the thought of his oversize pink peplum still haunts my dreams). For his 2013 runway, Wu went darker, added more drama and sex but managed to keep his lady a lady (a gorgeous lady if you ask me). His inspiration (Helmut Newton and Lilian Bassman images) resulted in a provocative yet dreamy collection.

He paired up elements of romance (sheer fabrics, lace, tulle and embellishments) with bondage ones (leather harnesses, sheer panels with corset seams, leather and lace bralets and studded belts), never going too far and contrasting them perfectly. His prints, now more than ever, have Wu’s signature written all over. As for the color palette, it was all on the dark and the mute side with a few exceptions: some hints of bright coral that made it all even more interesting. Season after season, Mr. Wu has become one of NYFW’s favorites and if he keeps this going….

CREATURES OF THE WIND Spring 2013

Last season, I reviewed with delight Creatures of the Wind Fall 2012 collection, one of the most pleasant surprises on NYFW. This season, I am reviewing it with even more delight. Let’s start with the obvious, a color palette so perky and so visually appealing is always bound to be a success. If you throw some interesting shapes into the mix and a lovely fabric mix, it will just keep getting better. With a 60’s inspiration, the Chicago duo presented an unexpectedly sweet collection. Layering played an important part on the runway (the jacket from the first look is pure poetry). The elements: shorts sleeves, bustiers, pleated midi skirts, perfectly tailored and adorned trousers and the shoes, those Tabitha Simmons shoes with embroidery were definitely one of the highlights of the show.

PRABAL GURUNG Spring 2013

There’s a NYFW trifecta: Alexander Wang, Joseph Altuzarra and my all-time favorite, Mr. Prabal Gurung. The buzz around this designer just keeps growing and growing with each season, making him one of the headliners this Spring 2013. It’s not only about his fabulous prints or his precise tailoring, he surprises with each look but always keeping that continuity a fashion show requires. He has made a signature of those tailored shorts, this time, he paired them up with neoprene sweatshirts and feathered blouses (feathers had an interesting role in his show).

The highlights of the collection were his formal jackets, a genius idea when it comes to twisting and turning evening wear. The shoes, a result from his collaboration with Casadei, made it all more special (mark my words, those red strappy pumps will be everywhere next Spring). Gurung revisited many elements from his previous collections, a good thing when it comes to building a brand’s character, a bad thing when people see it as just more of the same.

RUFFIAN Spring 2013

Twisted, unique and delightful in its own way, that’s how I would describe Ruffian’s Spring 2013 collection. A game of delicate prints, ruffles, layers and soft colors transformed boyish shapes and garments into ultra-feminine ones. To add another touch of spice, Morais and Walk paired every single one of their looks with the classic Converse low-tops (if I wasn’t a fan of sneakers before, I think thanks to them I might be on the verge of purchasing my own). Between the jacquard, the bows, the peplums and the prints, Ruffian will have a lot to offer next season.

HELMUT LANG Spring 2013

And just when we were expecting minimal darkness from the Colovos, boom! They give us this! With a colorful palette, Helmut Lang’s runway seemed almost unrecognizable. Florals, prints, sheer panels and those pants (yeah, those peachy and white drawstrings that looked comfy yet chic) were among the main elements the brand presented for their Spring 2013 collection. If you ask me, an unexpected surprise, but always a pleasant one. With some influences from last season’s collections (Mr. Kane, we are talking to you), the designer duo made it their own. No knock-offs, no copycat stuff, just a hint here and there, an influence.

LOOK OF THE DAY

The fun about Fashion Week is the mixing and matching, the dare, the over-the-top. Fashion Week is not matching your shoes to your purse, that’s why with this look I went for the beautiful chaos that is mismatching.

• Leopard print jumper, ASOS
• Wax-coated jeans, ZARA
• Polka dot courts, KATE SPADE
• Tan handbag, DOLCE GABBANA
• Bangle set, J. CREW
• Spike bracelet, TOPSHOP
• Jaguar bracelet, KENNETH JAY LANE
• Ring duo, TOPSHOP
• Delicatesse nail polish, CHANEL LE VERNIS

For all the details on today’s look go to FASHIOLISTA

Tomorrow I have for you another impressive line-up, what do you think about the Spring 2013 collections? What’s your favorite so far?

Happy Sunday and sweet kisses to y’all!

Illustration: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources: style.com, asos, zara, Kate Spade, Dolce Gabbana, Chanel

 

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

Sweet n’Raw’s styling sheets: VFNO

Hello, hello my sweet readers! The day is finally here, NYFW is on and today, in most of the world’s biggest cities we get to celebrate fashion. Vogue Fashion’s Night Out has become one of the highlights of the season. VFNO is a night where the streets become ours and the stores even more (even if that Chanel 2.55 will still be out of my budget tonight), a night where bumping into Anna dell Russo is 99% possible (trust me, that happened to me last year and yes, then I followed her around), a night in which even if fashion is not your thing, you get to join the cult (the coolest cult of them all, if you ask me). So before heading out the door with your 5 inch heels and all your fabulousness, I whipped up an outfit that may or may not inspire your VFNO ensemble. Of course, the Jonathan Saunders t-shirt is the main item. Ready?

This little t-shirt is what almost everyone will be wearing tonight and that, most of the time in fashion, is a true crime (someone wearing the same dress you are wearing at the same party, oh God), but not today. Today we get to wear the same t-shirt because we get to put our on spin on it! It’s a celebration of personal style! Some may wear it underneath a tutu dress, some with a biker jacket and a skirt, some with some fierce, printed jeans Me? I went for sequins and tuxedo! I added some leopard and pink because the outfit was just screaming leopard and pink! Here it is:

• VFNO t-shirt, JONATHAN SAUNDERS & GAP
• Tuxedo white jacket, MANGO
• Sequin shorts, TOPSHOP
• Hot pink pumps, GIUSEPPE ZANOTTI
• Leopard print clutch, LAUREN MERKIN
• Letter necklace, LAURA LEE
• Horseshoe necklace, ASOS
• Ring trio, RIVER ISLAND
• Go Overborard nail polish, ESSIE

For all the details on today’s look, go to FASHIOLISTA

• Card holder: This baby from Smythson fits perfectly inside your fabulous clutch. Don’t forget your ID, your gonna be needing it for the fabulous party you will be attending after!
• Camera: sometimes the iPhone is not enough. You outfit, the people you meet, the fabulous thing you’ll see are camera  worth. Even if it doesn’t fit inside the bag, it’s a must!
• Mints: fresh breath and no chewing, you’ll be needing it after one to many champagne flutes.
• Note pad and a pen always come in handy! Need to make some notes for a post? Need to remember what you saw? Need to give out your digits to some hunky male model? Thank me later!
• iPhone with a fab cover: Swash, that’s all we need to say… Oh and Instagram too!
• Hot pink lips: hey, it’s a night about fun and bright lips are fun!
• Blush and brush: Keep you cheekbones picture perfect with Nars Orgasm, this baby never leaves my bag
• Body butter: I’m the ultimate moisturize junkie! If I know I’m gonna be flashing my legs, I like to keep them shiny at all times! Bliss body butter kills it!
• Black eyeliner: party lips need party eyes!

That’s it! Now we are ready to go! Tomorrow we will be starting the runway coverage so stay tuned!

Sweet kisses and happy Fashion Week…

Illustration: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources: ASOS, Gap, Farfetch, Net-a-porter, Essie

 

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS: Blogger Edition

Hello, hello my sweet readers! It’s been a while since I did one of these and I don’t know what took me so long since you really seem to enjoy them. For those of you who aren’t familiar with my Seven Deadly Sins series, here’s the deal: I pick a theme, I choose the seven things that must never (and when I say never, it really is never) be done in that certain situation and then I write and illustrate about it (adding my own touch of sarcasm and black comedy). If you want to read my previous sinful entries, clicke HERE, HERE and HERE. With Fashion Week around the corner and thousands of Fashion Bloggers getting ready to cover and attend, my timing couldn’t be more perfect. So here it is, over the next few days I will be presenting The Seven Deadly Sins: Fashion blogger edition.

I’m constantly browsing the internet for new blogs to read, new bloggers to meet and new inspirations. I have an enormous blog roll, one that I have been building since before I started my own baby: I have my favorite bloggers, I have everyone else’s favorites, I have friends with blogs, I have hidden jewels and sadly, I have a couple of sitting ducks (sites you visit just because you’ll know you’ll get a good laugh… at the author’s expense). It may sound mean, it may sound bitchy and even cruel, but hey, there are some mistakes that can’t be made and if made, they sure can’t be forgiven.

The Fashion Blog niche has many different branches: the news and trend hunters (think Refinery29, Fashionista.com, Fashion Gone Rogue), the raters (think Red Carpet Awards), the illustrators (Lacee Swan, Garance Doré, Brooke Hagel), the comedians (Go Fug Yourself), the multi-taskers (I have put myself under this category) and of course, the loved by some and hated by others: the ego bloggers.

Each and every one of this categories is special in their own way. They have their own area or expertise, their own fans  and results. Success doesn’t depend on the type of blogging you do, success depends on the road you choose to take, the effort and time you dedicate to it, your consistency, the details (taking care of the details is extremely important) and last but not least, the quality of the material you offer to your readers.

When it comes to Personal Style bloggers, people always have different opinions and feedback about them. Some find them shallow, some find them genius. Personally, I think they have lots of guts. Who said putting yourself out there for the world to judge was easy? Yes, it might not require much writing skills or artistic talent, but hey, standing on a rock on 5 inch heels while holding up a pose is a true challenge. They dress up everyday, they scout their locations, they do their own fair share of work.

This is not a series where I’m gonna judge personal style or write up the same stuck-up rules our grandmas used to live by, fashion-wise (never mix black with navy, match your shoes to your belt and purse, when wearing cleavage cover your legs, yada, yada, yada), after all, they call it personal style because you get to wear what you want because you effing can. This is not a series where I’m gonna just talk about ego bloggers and their mishaps. This is a series in which I am gonna talk about blogger etiquette for us multi-taskers, for you comedians, for you news hunters, for all of us.

A fashion news blogger that steals someone else’s texts? A beauty blogger without a pedicure? An ego blogger with dirty shoes and wardrobe malfunctions? I’ve seen this and I’m pretty sure you have too. Well those, Ladies and Gentleman, are some of the Seven Deadly Sins bloggers commit.

Read if you have a sense of humor, read if you don’t take things personally, read if you have learned the art of laughing at yourself (if you have committed one of them). This is article and the upcoming ones are my opinion, and since this is a free country and I have freedom of speech, I can write whatever I want.

In the end, one way or another, we are all sinners.

Sweet kisses…

Illustration: Ana Sofia Alanis

 

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

The Goodbye Summer / Hello Fall Mash-up: Pajamas and Baroque

Hello, hello my sweet readers! Another day, another mash-up post. August is almost over, Fashion Week is almost here and Fall is really catching up with us quickly. Three reasons why we need to get our closet ready for a month full of events, I like to call it September the Beautiful. This is the fourth post from the series, we still have two more to go and we are done. Today I have a Spring trend that drove crazy all the fashion world, pajamas. I also have the trend that seems to be driving everyone crazy as we speak: baroque (seriously, D&G, you are killing us with some lovely and fashionable showers). Let’s start, shall we?

• THE TREND: Pajamas
• Season: Spring 2012
• As seen in: Stella McCartney, JW Anderson
• Key wardrobe pieces: the pajama shirt, the printed loose pants, the slippers

Dubbed by everyone as one of the best collections of the season (along with Jonathan Saunders, Peter Pilotto and my candy coated Louis Vuitton), Stella McCartney’s lavish pajama kingdom is definitely one to remember. No wonder all the retailers later followed with their own pajama sets. From Zara’s perfectly tailored, printed pants, to Theory’s silky shirts, wearing pajamas has never been more fun!

The selection: Shirt, TUCKER / Pants, DVF / Top, J. CREW / Slippers, OSCAR DE LA RENTA / Shorts, ADDITION by THAKOON

• THE TREND: Baroque
• Season: Fall 2012
• As seen in: Dolce & Gabbana, Balmain
• Key pieces: The clutch, the dress, the shorts

Domenico Dolce & Stefano Gabbana have been just killing it since Spring 2011 (who could forget the white Broderie Anglaise mania or the fresh produce prints from Spring 2012), now they swept us off our feet with their opulent and beautiful work of art. Baroque is everywhere this season and for a girl like me (my motto in life is “more is more”) I couldn’t be more happy! So embrace the lavish, embrace the gold, embrace the details, embrace Baroque.

The selection: Cardigan, RIVER ISLAND / Tank top, ALEXANDER McQUEEN / Bangle, RIVER ISLAND / Slippers, MIU MIU / Box clutch, ALEXANDER McQUEEN

I know, I now, I am not that much into black, but the leather, silk and baroque mix is my match made in heaven. I put together a flirty and romantic (with a touch of dark) look. Te lining on the pajama shirt fit in perfectly with the printed cardigan and the ruffle skirt. The bag was just the cherry on the cake!

• Pajama shirt, THEORY
• Leather ruffle skirt, ZARA
• Baroque cardigan, RIVER ISLAND
• Black wedges, ZARA
• Quilted bag, CHANEL
• Leopard bangle, J. CREW
• Ring set, TOPSHOP
• Flower locket, RIVER ISLAND
• Skirting the issue nail polish, ESSIE

For all the details on today’s look, go to FASHIOLISTA

That’s it for today! Tomorrow’s Friday! Who’s excited?

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources: STYLE.COM, Net-a-porter, Zara, Essie, Chanel, J. Crew

 

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

 

Coming soon, really soon…

Twice a year, I give myself what seems to be the impossible task: give you, my lovely readers, the best coverage a one-man team can handle. Yes, I am no style.com and I won’t have the runway shots, detail photos and reviews an hour after the catwalk but I do make pretty decent photo selections, I give killer (at least I like to think about it that way) reviews or funny ones and I put together Fashion Week worthy looks for each post. No, you won’t see me posing in my Giuseppe Zanotti pumps and holding my Givenchy Antigona clutch, with Lincoln Center as background but you’ll definitely find some substance, some fashion substance (hey, at least I won’t be posting random runway shots with “Loved it” as the caption). So if you want to read my humble opinion on the upcoming Spring 2013 shows, if you want a concise and short summary of the London, NY, Paris and Milan catwalks with a funny twist, then Sweet n’Raw will be waiting for you over the next month, with arms wide open and with big-ass posts packed with new fashion and trends. Meanwhile, here’s the recap of Sweet n’Raw’s Fall 2012 coverage.

Sweet n ‘Raw’s Fall 2012 Coverage by the Numbers

NYFW RESULTS

• 6 POSTS
• 27 REVIEWS
• 46 COLLAGES
• 230 IMAGES
• 5 LOOKS OF THE DAY

LFW RESULTS

• 3 POSTS
• 15 REVIEWS
• 19 COLLAGES
• 95 IMAGES
• 3 LOOKS OF THE DAY

MFW RESULTS

• 4 POSTS
• 19 REVIEWS
• 29 COLLAGES
• 145 IMAGES
• 4 LOOKS OF THE DAY

PFW RESULTS

• 5 POSTS
• 21 REVIEWS
• 21 COLLAGES
• 105 IMAGES
• 4 LOOKS OF THE DAY

Looks of the day: 16

Accessories used: 101

THE GRAND TOTAL:

• 18 POSTS
• 82 REVIEWS
• 115 COLLAGES
• 575 IMAGES
• 16 LOOKS
• 101 ACCESSORIES

Pretty damn good for a team of one right? Well, expect me to break my record for this upcoming Fashion Week!

FASHION WEEK COUNTDOWN: -06

Sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources: STYLE.COM

 

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

NAIL FILES: Farmer’s Market

Good morning my sweet readers! It’s finally Friday and Friday calls for a fun and simple post. Each month, around the 24th, I publish what has become a regular on Sweet’n’Raw, the Nail Files. If you are new to the site, it’s a themed nail polish compilation that includes the hottest shades of the moment from your favorite brands. Ans since we always give this posts that cute twist (think rainbow, berries, candy and macaron), this time I wanted to go fresh. What’s fresher than fresh produce (pardon the redundancy), right? So here it goes, Sweet’n’Raw’s veggie-inspired, nail enamel selection. Enjoy!

GARDEN CUCUMBERS

1. Bossy Boots, BUTTER LONDON
2. Navigate her, ESSIE
3. Celtic Mix, SCOTCH
4. Green Flash, MODELS OWN

BABY CARROTS

1. Coral Blame, TOM FORD
2. Atomic Orange, OPI
3. Paisley attention to me, SEPHORA by OPI
4. Meet me at the sunset, ESSIE

CURLY KALE

1. Hunter, AMERICAN APPAREL
2. Beetlejuice, MODELS OWN
3. I come in peas, SEHORA by OPI
4. Kink, ILLAMASQUA

HEIRLOOM TOMATOES

1. Holiday, CHANEL
2. Pom Pom, CIATÉ
3. Clambake, ESSIE
4. A roll in the hague, OPI

RED BEETS

1. Macbeths Dream, SCOTCH
2. Tentation, CHANEL
3. Disco Biscuit, BUTTER LONDON
4. Super Bossa Nova, ESSIE

GLOBE EGGPLANTS

1. Chelsea, NAILS INC.
2. Purple Rain, ESTEE LAUDER
3. Damsel in a dress, ESSIE
4. Flo Viper, TOM FORD

WHITE ONIONS

1. Amazing Grace, DEBORAH LIPPMANN
2. Marshmallow, ESSIE
3. Highland Mist, SCOTCH
4. Attraction, CHANEL

Ready for a night out? It’s Friday, time to let our hair down! So, which shade is your favorite one? I think I’m gonna go Red Beets today, you?

Bottoms up and sweet kisses…

Illustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources: Deborah Lippman, Sephora, Selfridges, Essie, Scotch Minerals, Nails INC.

 

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site

The Goodbye Summer/Hello Fall Mash-up: Scarf print and white

Good morning, my sweet readers! I’m up early, with my cup of coffee while it rains outside (God, it’s the best feeling in the world). Today I’m heading back to the city, leaving my gorgeous piece of seaside paradise and I have for you the second entry from our Summer/Fall mash-up. Scarf print was definitely my weakness this season, ask the Versace-esque Zara selection inside my closet and the whole article I wrote on this trend. Nowadays, mixing and matching prints is a must but since foulard-inspired garments are so beautiful to look at, I paired it up with a minimal Fall trend: white. Let’s see how this two trends clash together:

• THE TREND: Scarf print
• As seen in: Thakoon, D&G, Versace, Derek Lam
• Key wardrobe pieces: Button-down shirt, smart shorts

Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana, both masters when it comes to all things sexy and dramatic, came up with this homage to the foulard for their final D&G collection for Spring 2012. The result: one of the freshest and most beautiful collections of the season. Who knew scarves could be used in so many ways? Anyway, after the Italian duo, retailers followed. From River Island’s sexy cropped tops to H&M’s flashy colors and prints, this trend was everywhere and thank God for it!

The selection: Pants, RIVER ISLAND / Dress, ROMWE / Top, DOLCE GABBANA / Shirt, DOROTHY PERKINS / Foulard, ROMWE / Skirt, D&G / Shorts, H&M

• THE TREND: White
• As seen in: Proenza Schouler, J. Mendel, Alexander Wang, Maison Martin Margiela
• Key wardrobe pieces: tailored pants, cable-knit jumper, blazer

For Fall, white is the new black (at least that’s how I, the black hater, likes to think about it). Seasons ago, no one would’ve thought white would become such a strong color for the dark season, but since fashion is all about the unexpected, the white, Fall eagle has landed. Whether is a white total look (good luck staying clean) or just a garment, you must rock this color in the coming season. Why not start now?

The selection: Pants, STELLA McCARTNEY / High-tops, ASH / Tuxedo blazer, MANGO / Pumps, CHARLOTTE OLYMPIA / Shorts, ACNE / Jumper, MANGO / Ring, MANGO / Collar, KARL / Blouse TOPSHOP

SCARF PRINT + WHITE LOOK

Using all white for the rest of the look does enhance and focuses the attention on the print.  The mustard and red accessories give the whole ensemble that navy, old school Moschino touch. For arm candy, a gold overload completes the outfit to perfection.

• Pussybow blouse, ZARA
• Tuxedo jacket, MANGO
• Scarf print shorts, BOOHOO
• Mustard sandals, ZARA
• Quilted shoulder bag, MARC JACOBS
• Gold watch, NIXON
• Chain bracelet pack, ASOS
• Spike bracelet, ASOS
• Skull bracelet, ASOS
• Charm ring, WHISTLES
• Blue boy nail polish, CHANEL

For all the details on today’s look, go to FASHIOLISTA

Have a great day!

Sweet kisses…

llustrations: Ana Sofia Alanis

Image sources: STYLE.COM, River Island, Topshop, Zara, Asos, Chanel

 

All texts, illustrations and collages are made by me, it’s forbidden to re-post without previous request (sweetnrawme@gmail.com) and images must link back to this site