CATHERINE THE GREAT
Russian history is the best history, that’s what I always say. Actually, I’ve never said that and I don’t even think it. It’s a fairly gruesome chapter of historical texts out there, but who cares? Russia had its fair share of monarchs over the years and after the Romanovs, Catherine the Great is probably the most widely known. She served as the Empress of Russia, with an irregular path to the top. She became the Empress Consort after the death of Empress Elizabeth and the ascension of her husband, Peter III. I wouldn’t say they had a happy marriage and nobody else would either since she was a major player in his deposition as Tsar. Once he was out of the picture, Catherine became the Empress of Russia. Get yours, Catherine. During her reign, Russia became one of the great western powers and enjoyed a golden age of strength, culture and prosperity. Her tenure as Empress was very complicated, but interesting, take a look if you can.
1. I’m the Empress Consort.
Coat by Valentino, suit by Balmain, shoes by Altuzarra
2. PSYCH! I’m the Empress.
Coat by Roland Mouret, dress by Dries Van Noten, shoes by Derek Lam
3. Has anybody seen my horse?
Coat by Rag & Bone, skirt by Rodarte, shoes by Ferragamo
THE VALKYRIES
Greek and Roman mythology has its place, but Norse mythology is way better. Of the Norse pantheon of gods, the Valkyries take the top spot. Their job was to choose who lived or fell in battle. Half of those chosen would be taken to Valhalla, the kingdom of Odin, to prepare for the epic final battle of the world, Ragnarok. Crazy. The other half would go to Fólkvangr, a field ruled over by the goddess Freyja. The Valkyries would ride into battle to claim their soldiers and shuttle them to either place, pretty badass. More modern depictions of the Valkyries have them riding through the skies with shield and sword to complete their mission. In reality, they probably wouldn’t have cared what they were wearing but idgaf.
1. So you’re gonna go to Valhalla
Pants by Altuzarra, shirt by Balmain, boots by Lanvin
2. So you’re actually gonna to Fólkvangr
Dress by Versus, coat by Reed Krakoff, shoes by Versus
3. I don’t even know where you’re going, let’s just blow this popsicle stand.
Dress by Prabal Gurung, coat by Altuzarra, shoes by Dolce & Gabbana
WHAT WOULD LISBETH SALANDER WEAR?
Happy new year to you guys. Over my long, actually, very long break, I went and saw The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. It was certainly worth my $9.50 and if you’ve seen it you’ll understand what I mean when I say it affected me long after I left the theater. Sheesh. For those unfamiliar, the story is all about a journalist and a hacker/investigator who uncover a grizzly history of serial killings and seek revenge upon a .01 percenter. If you haven’t seen it, I recommend it and if you haven’t read it you probably should. While watching it, I thought Lisbeth would make a great character post and many people have requested her, so here you go. Of course, in reality (fiction reality?) Lisbeth probably wouldn’t care.
Full image after jump, y’all have fun.
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I’m breaking from regularly scheduled programming to share this with you all. One of my very best friends Jason teaches a few 5th graders. He, being the pal that he is, shares my blog with them which I find both honoring and hysterical. One of his students drew these and asked that he show them to me.
Let’s give the student her due. Clearly, they have a knack for drawing tech flats—a highly sought after skill.
#1. Lanvin Esque, let’s take a look here—1 shouldered, possibly draped, very remiscent of Alber’s jewel tone looks.
#2. Simple, definitely an LBD vibe going on. The shape is very Valentino (the new Valentino that is) or Prada when she’s feeling minimal.
#3. This ensemble is definitely a doozie, more 90’s throwback than any of the others. I could see some Jil Sander or maybe even Miu Miu (Spring 2011) in the skirt and as far as the top goes…I’m not quite sure but it has kind of a Betsey Johnson vibe happening.
#4. This looks like it’s got several layers fabric happening, possibly different materials…has potential for a sort of Meadham Kirchoff vibe, no?
#5. Some 80’s throwback here, possibly a nod to Marc by Marc or if in polka dots Marc Jacobs collection. Maybe even a little Mary Katrantzou in that structured sleeve.
#6. Wrap dress? The fifth grader knows their Diane Von Furstenberg
#7. With that neckline and what looks like some body cutouts I’m thinking Versace, Christopher Kane (Spring 2011) or maybe even some Balmain action.
#8. Colorblocking galore on this piece, very Prabal Gurung/Thakoon.
My grade for this assignment? A+.
Textbook has lead to some great things—fashion shows, a couple random projects and a lot of new people but I gotta say…this is the best so far.
BALMAIN FALL ‘11
I get a lot of shit for supporting Balmain across the board. But good god, this collection was awesome. I’ve been keeping an eye on their menswear and it gets a little better every season. True it is outrageously expensive, but the menswear is much more approachable then womenswear. Plus, it’s exactly the way I like to dress.
I do believe I’ll pick up some Balmain come Fall ‘11. Check out the rest.
