Whoa, Innovative Heels

(via: parttimeloverfulltimenerd)

A woman’s shoes have always been a key ingredient to her ensemble, and now they can be the most expressive and fashion forward as well. Designers like Alexander McQueen, Karl Lagerfeld, and Miuccia Prada have sent some of the most creative and innovative styles down the runway, including shoes where the traditional silhouette is dramatically altered; pairs with the heels made up of unique designs such as flowers, guns, and animals, not to mention pumps that skip the heel altogether.

Rocking a pair of these ‘Lady Gaga’ pumps may seem daunting at first, but we recommend working the look by pairing them with a simple cocktail dress. Here are some looks below that are sure to turn heads.

(via: fierceheels) 

(via: stylesaint)

(via: eliza-ronson)

(via: madein1989)

- Samantha Burkett

HH Spotlight: Jelena Lasic, Fashion Designer & HH Illustrator

Jelena Lasic is certainly a special spotlight for us, as she is a huge representation of the HerHattan brand. With her modern, fashionable illustrations that adorn HerHattanNYC.com (as well as our Facebook Page, Twitter Page, Pinterest Page, Google+ Page, and more), Lasic is the epitome of a HerHattan-esque girl. 

Originally from Bosnia, Lasic came to New York City to study fashion design at Parsons The New School for Design. It was only a mere two years ago, when I spotted Lasic’s talents, as she started to illustrate fashionable women at a bar one night, in Manhattan’s Chelsea district. With a marker and a slice of paper in hand, in about 20 seconds flat, Lasic had drawn a rendition of a fashionable woman in the nightlife scene. It caught my eye. She caught me eye. From then on, Lasic has been HerHattan’s sole illustrator, bringing a sense of fashion and lifestyle to the brand. 

Now, after graduating, falling in love, getting married, and moving to Croatia where Lasic is a proud mother, she has launched her own Jelena Lasic fashion line. When asked how she describes her designs, she explains, “The looks are very romantic and feminine…  I really wanted my customer to have choices depending on what she feels like wearing at a certain time, and to dress for a specific occasion.” 

So, what inspires this Bosnian beauty? “I enjoy the outdoors especially when taking long walks. When I take a break, I look around and start sketching because there is so much to see and be inspired by, and that’s where I find a lot of inspiration,” she explains. It is no wonder that Lasic is starting to set the tone for Croatia’s fashion scene, all-the-while keeping her roots from Bosnia, and her love for New York, still in tact. 

Give us a little history on where you’re from, how you got to NYC, and then finally to Croatia. 

I was born in Sarajevo, Bosnia. When the war started in 1992, my family and I moved to Germany when I was five-years-old, and then to the U.S. at age 12, when my parents decided that the U.S. would offer my brother and I the opportunity for a strong education and better life.

First, we moved to New Hampshire where I attended high school and started to compete in many art competitions throughout the state. I entered the NH Scholastic Awards annually and won numerous silver and gold key awards for my artwork. I have been painting and drawing since I was 10-years-old, and was mentored by a famous German-based painter, Azra Arapovic. During high school, I became interested in design, specifically clothes.

Fashion design is a great way to express my vision and creativity, which is why I decided to apply to Parsons The New School for Design, and that’s how I got to NYC. I finally ended up in Croatia, right after graduation, because LOVE brought me here! While studying and working in New York, I met my husband who was visiting NYC, and we fell in love. I became pregnant during my senior thesis, and right after graduation I moved to Croatia to give birth to my precious son, Karlo.

What’s one major fashion difference you noticed right away between Croatia and NYC?

Women in both cities, NYC and Zagreb, dress very similar. Yet, in NYC, I could see more women dressed down during the day, than I would in Zagreb, Croatia. It seems that women here are dressed for appearance 24/7. I also must say that the biggest fashion difference I’ve noticed is that for men. Almost all men here wear the man purse, which is very rare in NYC. Here, it’s a must-have for them at all times.

What do you think is the hardest part of studying fashion in NYC, and the most beneficial part?

The hardest part is definitely that the fashion industry is very competitive, and there are a lot of very talented designers in one place. You have to work really hard and be committed, but also stand out. The most beneficial part is that NYC offers endless opportunities for those who want to pursue a career in fashion.

How would you describe the styles/looks of your designs?

The looks are very romantic and feminine. I designed a mini-collection of 10 looks, offering my customer something for the day, to wear to work, and something for the evening, as well as editorial pieces. I really wanted my customer to have choices depending on what she feels like wearing at a certain time, and to dress for a specific occasion.

What was your inspiration behind your designs?

I enjoy the outdoors especially when taking long walks. When I take a break, I look around and start sketching because there is so much to see and be inspired by, and that’s where I find a lot of inspiration. The inspiration behind this specific collection followed the theme of nature, inspired by the flow of water, and tree rings, which is a reoccurring design element throughout the collection. The process of production included a lot of work done by hand.

Describe your personal style. Does your line represent your personal style as well? 

Casual Chic. My personal style has changed over time, especially after becoming a mother. I started to move my style towards more comfortable and practical. My line certainly represents my point of view and looks I would wear.

When it comes to fashion, what is one rule by which you live?

It should always be about the overall look no matter what you choose to wear. You should always think about how to put it all together to create that one great look.

Who is your favorite designer?

Alexander McQueen

What is your favorite store to shop at? 

H&M

What advice can you give to other aspiring fashion designers studying in NYC?

Work hard, believe in yourself and follow your vision.

What can we look for next from you?

I am currently working on a Spring Summer Collection for 2013!

See more stories like this here. 

Pair the Peplum Style Right

Peplum, a cut originating from ancient Greece, has been modernized and is sweeping the runways, stores, and now every fashionable New York City girl’s wardrobe. It is no surprise that the style has become immensely popular among designers and shoppers alike, as it is very flattering to the female figure (accentuating her waist and minimizing her stomach) and easy to incorporate into many different looks. Couture designers such as Alexander McQueen and Prada have jackets and dresses with the style, and stores such as H&M and Anthropologie make the fashion available at a more consumer-friendly price through blouses and skirts. The look can be done in a business sense with a suit jacket, for a night out with a colorful dress, or casually through a simple top paired with cropped pants and heels. See photos below from fabulous blogs we LOVE, who know how to pair the peplum style the right way. 

(via: decanter)

(via: what-id-wear)

(via: atickingtimebomb)

(via: brokeyoungandfabulous)

(via: The Prepster Diaries)

- Samantha Burkett

Daphne Guinness Auctions Personal Wardrobe at Christies

Last fall we got a look into Daphne Guinness’s wardrobe when she showcased a portion of her clothing at the Museum at FIT. The couture collector is now giving her fans the chance to own some of her outlandish pieces, as they are being auctioned off at Christie’s this June. The auction is to raise money for the Isabella Blow foundation—a charity in her close friend’s memory. The late fashion icon, Isabella Blow, committed suicide in 2007 and Guinness bought her entire collection of clothes to preserve it in its entirety. The mission of The Isabella Blow Foundation is to continue the work of Blow, and support new and emerging talent in the sphere where art and fashion meet.

One hundred pieces from the heiress’s personal wardrobe will be auctioned off which include designs by Alexander McQueen, Chanel, Balenciaga, Christian Lacroix and others. Money generated by the Foundation will be donated to selected charities, as well as to the Foundation itself. The director of Christie’s Fashion Department, Pat Frost, commented, “We are delighted to be offering the fashion world this incredible one-off opportunity to buy some of the most iconic and cutting-edge haute couture of the early 21st century, owned and worn by Daphne Guinness.” Not only will the auction comprise exceptional designs by the likes of McQueen, Chanel, Balenciaga and others, but it will also aptly benefit and shape the designers of the future. Christie’s is very proud to be able to play a part in helping Daphne to achieve her forward-looking and charitable aim. The auction begins on June 27, 2012 at 7:00 pm at Christie’s South Kensington.

                                   Daphne Guinness and the late Isabella Blow

                  Heeless Noritaka Tatehana ankle boots selling for £1,500-2,500 and

                                      silver metalic Alexander McQueen dress

       Black dress Daphne bought in Paris in 2006 in the Lanvin store, selling for £400-800

             Christopher Kane dress embellished with Swarovski Crystals selling for £800-1,500

                        Yellow satin and hide Christian Lacroix dress selling for £1,000-2,000

-Irma Elezovic

Street Chic: FIT

Name: Lexi Backer

Age: 18

Occupation: Student at FIT

Major: Fashion Design

How would you describe your personal style? Girly Grunge, it is very dark yet chic and put together.

Who is your favorite designer? Alexander McQueen

What is your must have fashion piece? My gold Michael Kors watch.

What are you wearing? Forever 21 shirt, Nordstrom leggings, Urban Outfitters boots, Urban Outfitters bag

-Irma Elezovic

See more Street Chic photos here.

HH Boutique Highlight: Second Time Around with Tara Muscarella

Walking into STA (Second Time Around), a consignment shop on Mott Street in Nolita, you will be greeted with not only tons of valuable fashion finds, but also by the likes of Tara Muscarella, who has a spiritual and fashionable energy that is palpable. STA is not your typical run-of-the-mill hand-me-down shop, rather STA’s staff is very in particular about what they sell, and the prices are anywhere from 50% to 75% less than the item’s original price! 

With a pair of Alexander McQueen black knee-high boots, Chanel shoes, and Louis Vuitton bags, STA is certainly a gem in one of NYC’s most fashionable districts. But, what is it like to be the girl who runs it all? Muscarella shares all the details in the “fashion dance” she does all day long. She admits, “ I opted for a job where I could run my own store. Now I curate for a high-end consignment boutique, where I have fun with a diverse clientele, create eye-catching window displays and try fashionable clothes on all day long!” 

Where are you originally from and what brought you to NYC? 

I am originally from Donna Jean’s belly born in ‘74, no just kidding! I am from South Eastern Connecticut, born in New London and raised in a neighboring town called Waterford. I moved to NYC in 2005, after living in Boston for 12 years, to work for an independent company called Sweet. I represented creative artists ranging from directors, editors and musicians working predominately in commercial work.

How did you get involved with STA?

So here I am at Second Time Around, a second time around (talk about serendipity). I worked for the company 10 years ago in Boston between advertising gigs. Then, two years ago, I was riding my bike in Nolita, and the Mott Street store caught my eye! Holy Shit, I thought, that’s STA! I had no idea that the company expanded their business to NYC. I was immediately back in touch with them, and was given a store to manage. The timing couldn’t have been more ideal. Like many, I was affected by the economic downturn, looking for work and thinking about my next steps. I was teetering back and forth about whether or not to return to my “glamorous,” high-paying advertising lifestyle. In the end I realized I needed a change. I opted for a job where I could run my own store. Now I curate for a high-end consignment boutique, where I have fun with a diverse clientele, create eye-catching window displays and try fashionable clothes on all day long!

Tell us about how STA works exactly for buyers and sellers.

Those who wish to offer clothes on consignment make an appointment M-F during store hours. During the appointments, I look through the pieces and decide what items are best for the store. We accept items ranging from J-Crew to couture, which are generally less than two years old. All pieces must be dry-cleaned or laundered. We then price the items at 1/3 or 1/4 of the retail cost, based on style and condition. If an item has it’s original price on it then we’ll mark it half the cost. Consigners receive 40% of the selling price. Unless, it’s high-end handbags, then they’ll receive 50% of the selling price, and STA pays out every 60 days.

Those who choose to BUY, well it’s simple. BUY BUY BUY and SAVE SAVE SAVE. You are purchasing amazing pieces for a fraction of the cost!

Describe a full day at STA, from open to close. 

First order of the day, music! I love to play deejay and set the tone. I typically begin with a meditative vibe and play Krishna Das. Lately I’ve been feeling reggae, jazz, Mumford & Sons, and Florence & The Machine. After that, it’s game on. I can have up to 10 appointments each day, not including walk-ins. Those who walk-in without an appointment can “drop-off” their items with the understanding that pieces that are not accepted will be donated. In addition to processing our appointments, it’s always all about customer service. We have fun with those that walk through the door. We know our merch best so it’s nice for us to pull and find just the item you are looking for, or what you need for a special event. It’s a fashionable dance all day!

What kind of items do you sell at STA?

We sell what’s hot! Clothing, accessories, shoes, handbags…

What is the in look for spring and summer?

Bold prints (think floral and tribal), bright primary and neon colors, and flowy scarves.

Describe your own personal style.

There are no rules. I truly march to the beat of my own inner drum, and therefore let my mood or Mother Nature decide what is best, and I take it from there.

What do you think is more important: name brand or style?

Style for sure! It’s easy to shop a particular brand, but the true creativity is when you can salt and pepper high-end brands with the more affordable brands to create a unique and interesting look, on a budget!

Name two items at STA right now that are most valuable and will be most desired by your clientele.

I am coveting a necklace designed by Rachel Brown who creates custom-made jewelry based on the ancient spiritual teachings of Kabbalah. These pieces are very sought after if you are in the know. If you aren’t, the piece may speak to you. We recently had a chunky cuff called ‘72 Names of God.’ I almost didn’t take it because it was so unique and therefore I thought it was only for a very particular client. Well, I’m so happy I took a chance, because a gentleman came in and was looking for that exact item! You just never know. There is something for everyone! The recent piece I have is a necklace called Unconditional, which retails for over $1k.

The second item is a brand new pair of Alexander McQueen black knee-high boots!

See more stories like this, here.

Daphne Guinness Shows Her Couture Collection at FIT by Angela Thomas

(Daphne Guinness in all her glam)

Daphne Guinness is a woman who wears many hats. Artist, muse, socialite, heiress, and collector of hautecouture are just a few. She has graced the pages of some of the most well known style magazines and has amassed a wardrobe that would rival any top model. Known for her eccentric style, the fashion icon has put her famed collection of couture on display at The Museum at FIT. 

 Never one to shy away from a seemingly un-wearable shoe, the style maven had an assortment of heels on display from Alexander McQueen to Christian Louboutin to Nina Ricci just to name a few.  But it was a pair of heelless platform stunners with red crystals and gold medal studs, by Japanese designer Noritaka Tatehana, that left me wondering,how does she walk in those things?

 The clothes were no less amazing than the shoes. Daphne’s couture collection featured pieces from some of the most talented and sought after designers, like Alexander McQueen, Valentino, Christian Lacroix and Gareth Pugh. The exhibit was split into six sections dedicated to her style philosophy: Dandyism, Armor, Chic, Evening Chic, Exoticism, and Sparkle. 

 The Dandyism section showed the fashionista’s passion for men’s clothes and featured crisp white shirts and tailored jackets. Her love of armor is a well-known fact, in which she has stated; “I think it’s very beautiful to be able to cover yourself in metal. I love the color and the way it reflects.” Leather corsets were included in this section including a leather jacket and pant-set covered in metal nails by Gareth Pugh.  

 Black, white, and grey dresses by Azzedine Alaïa and Balenciaga graced the Chic section of the exhibit, all of which were inspired by Daphne’s mother and grandmother.  Evening Chic took it a step farther with gowns in luscious fabrics such as satin, jersey, charmeuse, and chiffon.  These gowns provided “structure, with a bit of chaos.”

 According to the heiress, “Fashion is becoming more beige. (Everything is) starting to look the same.” This lack of individuality was the theme for the Exoticism section.  Garments like a silk kimono evening dress in orange, red, and purple and a coat covered in tiny black skulls set Daphne’s personal style apart from the masses. Her penchant for feathers, fur, and sequins inspired the Sparkle section, which featured a white sheared fur jacket and sequin leggings by Alexander McQueen that would be coveted by any fashion lover.      

 If seeing the extensive couture collection wasn’t enough, there was a giant hologram of the one time International Best Dressed List Hall of Famer suspended from the ceiling, her slim body accentuated by a sparkly cat suit. The exhibit also featured several videos that she directed or starred in, including Focus on Daphne Guinness, from a 2010 interview withVogue Italia that showed a rare glimpse into her personal life. 

Noritaka Tatehana’s heelless crystal shoe

Irma, wearing a beautiful ensemble by Charles Haddad, with Daphne Guinness

Irma in her costume headpiece (handmade by herself)