I am a YSL freak.  Once I read The Beautiful Fall by Alicia Drake (read it, read it, read it!!!) I fell deeply, madly in love with this beautiful man and never looked back.  In fact, I’m so ridiculously obsessed with him that the lovely ladies I work with call him my boyfriend.  And that’s true… I kind of think he is. 

BUT, the fact that the man was a complete and utter fashion genius who revolutionized the fashion industry is something that cannot be denied.  Consistently shocking, and one of the first couture designers to create ready-to-wear (Rive Gauche), he truly is the foundation of fashion as we know it.  To that end, he was known for his deep love of women and it was of the utmost importance to him that his clothes make women feel and look beautiful.  “I have always believed that fashion was not only to make women more beautiful, but also to reassure them, give them confidence.” 

Because I could speak of his brilliance all day long, I think it would be more fitting to show you some images from some of his most controversial and groundbreaking collections.  As his influence lives on, I’m sure they’re images many of you will recognize historically, or from influences within your very own closets. 

Le smoking, YSL’s original (and highly controversial) tuxedo suit for women.  The most influential and highly revered of his designs. 

With his bold, overstated colors, short skirts, high strappy heels and dramatic make-up, YSL’s 1940s-inspired collection in 1971 was deemed “tarty” and lacking in taste.  I, of course, find it utterly spectacular.

One of my favorite images: YSL with his beloved muses Betty Catroux and Loulou de la Falaise in his safari-inspired designs. The ownership of their individual styles and the elegant confidence radiating from all three is magnificent

His 60’s inspired mod designs. 

And he still lives on.  Stunning looks from the YSL FW08 collection (current head designer: Stefano Pilati).  

It’s official!!  Target’s next partner is none other than Michelle Obama’s favorite, Thakoon Panichgul. Fashionistas from all walks of life can now get their hands of his vibrant and luxurious prints and florals for $20-$70.   The capsule launches Dec 25.  Now that’s something to look forward to Christmas morning!

LOVE it!

Vogue Darling, Thakoon Panichgul

selling out J Crew

First Lady chic in Narciso Rodriquez

keeping it real in Maria Pinto

Dressing in the public eye certainly takes courage, but again we maintain it’s all about owning your look. Our new First Lady does this to perfection. What can you say about a woman who can raise the profile of a local designer (Maria Pinto) to a level of international recognition? And at the same time, cause the J Crew website to crash due to the number of people she inspired to seek out and obtain her chic yet affordable outfit? Now, that’s some impressive style influence.

Hail to the Chieftess.

There are few designers that take my breath away quite like Alexander McQueen. The way that he combines avant-garde and pretty is what truly blows me away. If I was a celebrity, I would wear him to every major event (and probably to the grocery store, as well!) I am lucky enough to have acquired a few pieces of his over the years, but all this has done is make me hungry for more. I’ve attached a few of my faves from seasons past (and current). Enjoy!

SS01

FW04

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SS07

FW08