Salmon

Photos clockwise from left: POP SS 2006, resimsakla.com, Marc Jacobs SS 2011, The Face August 1995, shopyarnlove.com, Passage to Desert; wallpaper.imcphoto.net, poorskinnychef.wordpress.com (center)

Feminine 50s

Photos (left to right) courtesy of Australian Home Journal 1959, fashion-era.com, frankfradella.com    

    I love the 1950s for embracing the feminine figure and emphasizing the beauty of curves. Marilyn Monroe was a size 12 but she was the icon of this decade. No matter what her shape or size, the woman was beautiful. Finally, there was no need to hide behind bulky clothing just because you’re not petit. This decade continues to influence fashion, art, architecture and media.

Photos (clockwise from left) courtesy of hgtv.com, bloomingpeaches.wordpress.com, 

Louis Vuitton Fall 2010 Campaign, Vogue US October 2010, Vogue US July 2010

    We see the feminine fifties depicted in current editorials. I love the bodysuit, which actually attempts to create curves around the woman’s body. This is definitely an ode to the fifties woman. Interior designers are also using 1950s homes as inspiration for current home makeovers. Absolute Towers in Mississauga, Ontario can be juxtaposed against the body of Marilyn Monroe. The structure twists and curves, following the curves of a woman’s legs, hips and torso. This comparison has been so widely agreed upon that the structure is often referred to as ‘The Marilyn Monroe Building.’

The Global Wanderer

The Global Wanderer. The Global Wanderer has a collection of ethnic pieces that speak of different cultures and sources of inspiration. These pieces are combined to create an eclectic mix of color, texture and shape. They gather and collect special pieces from across the globe. 

Russian Fur. The Global Wanderer embraces Russia’s luxurious furs and incorporates these elegant statement pieces into their wardrobe. Furs are combined with other global textiles such as Chinese silk or Australian wool, creating a multi-cultural look. As winter approaches, furs are beginning to appear on the streets.

Oversized Scarf. The oversized shawl has a heavy appearance, comfortable and warm appearance.  Many have a South American vibe for those jet setters just returning from vacation.  Others are more suitable for chilly evening in Europe. They are a statement pieces that are being seen in abundance on the streets.

Australian Wool. Wool is appearing on the runway and streets, in shearling coats and woolen sweaters. Wool garments feel classic and natural. There is also new street art, Yarn Bombing, that is embracing the Australian image.

 

Ethnic Patterns. The Uzbekistan Ikat and African Kitenge are vivacious patterns, full of color and character. These patterns feel like they’ve come out of the mountains or desert but have become all the rage on the runways. The Wanderer mixes and matches the ethnic pattern with other patterns such as plaid or animal skin. The Global Wanderer travels the world picking up statement pieces along the way.

Street Shots

Infinity

Helix Hotel, Abu Dhabi

While wandering the streets this week I couldn't help but notice the number of infinity/circle scarves. Their curves and contour remind me of the spherical and rounded edges of modern architecture. The most fitting example is the Helix Hotel in Abu Dhabi, with its bowed, disk-shaped silhouette. Similar to the infinity scarf, there is a sense of continuation with no visible breaks. Needless to say, by the end of the week I wanted a scarf of my own. 

Three Dimensional

This week my conversation of fashion and architecture will have a little different spin. I am going to take a step back and look at three levels of styling or design. Instead of an in depth comparison of lines, shapes and details, I am going to discuss mainstream, trend-setting and innovative fashion and architecture.

Mainstream

     At the mainstream level, there are very few surprises. If you were looking for any of these pieces you always have a rough idea of where to find them and you can generally count on their availability in many retail locations. As you can see from the above photos, these are much more commercial looks that you would see on the street. In terms of architecture, these designs may include subdivision homes or office/apartment buildings. Although these structures do not necessarily make you stop and stare, they are functional and look good.

Trendsetter

     At the trendsetter’s level, there are more unique ideas and styles. These new, forward looks are recognized and often emulating a few months (fashion) or a few years (architecture) later in the mainstream market. Many of these fashion trends are fresh off the runway such as the mixing of patterns and the harem pant shown above. In terms of architecture, trendsetters focus on a trend, such as sustainability; providing direction and ideas for mainstream architects. 

Innovator

     The innovator is the most rare to come across in both fashion and architecture. These people either buy new products earlier than others (black pants on left) or have a distinct style that often persists over an extended period (jacket, shirt and hair on right).  Innovators rarely go unnoticed. Innovative architecture is being seen globally and it shocks the audience. Recently, we have seen architects flirting with gravity or light, as an element of surprise.

Current Trend: Rock Candy

Royal Ontario Museum: Lee-Chin Crystal

  

Crystal-Inspired Rings 

    This week I was very interested in accessories, especially these gorgeous crystal-inspired cocktail rings. The greatest part about these edgy pieces is that they are in no way being used as cocktail rings. All of the young women I saw wearing these rings were out running errands or in class for the afternoon. What a great way to add flare to your daytime look! Since they are made of metallic stones, their texture is rough and jagged. Their iridescence balances the heavy rock materials to create an outstanding day or evening look. Depending on the styling of these pieces, they can go from biker chic to glamour girl.

The Lee-Chin Crystal, in Toronto, has a very similar silhouette and unique design (photo courtesy of Daniel Libeskind website). The structure’s lines are short and sharp coming points, like a crystal. The Crystal is made of glass and aluminum making it’s exterior glisten in the sun during throughout the day and reflects city lights at night. The morning-to-evening beauty of the museum resembles the all-day use of the crystal ring. The crystal-inspired ring is an accessory that really has an impact on one’s look!