J. Mendel Fall 2012: Pure Luxury

Regardless of the season, Giles Mendel will always show luxurious looks with feminine silhouettes, and of course with the most amazing craftsmanship. This season, he really focused on soft shapes in a neutral palette (with of course some burgundy throughout the collection…stock up now because it’s Fall’s biggest color trend!),  along with gorgeous textured fur that appears voluminous yet light at the same time.

The eveningwear was stunning as per usual. Gold tones mixed with nude and the most intricate beading, these sure have a chance landing on the best dressed list at the Oscars next weekend. Another big trend seen on the Fall ’12 runways and also for J. Mendel are cut outs. I love this look because it’s a cool, subtle way to show some skin. And with the class J. Mendel brings to every collection, these cut outs were done perfectly.

When I was at this show I honestly couldn’t even believe I was there. The clothes were beyond stunning, the music was electric and there was a celeb-packed front row where I was even a little starstruck (which is not something I can say often). It was a surreal moment and I’m so thankful to be invited to see such an incredible designer’s collection first-hand.

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No you’re not seeing double…it’s Mary Kate and Ashley looking fierce in all black in the front row.

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Caught her as she almost fell (looks kinda cool though, right?)

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Giles gives out hugs after the finale!

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The look on the right (on Lindsey Wixson) is my absolute favorite from the collection.

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Some exciting J. Mendel news–this was the first time in-house designed handbags were shown in a collection. Yes, Fall 2012 is the debut year of J. Mendel bags! Crocodile with mink and alpaca fur lining? Would expect nothing less from J. Mendel.

Runway images via Style.com

Reem Acra Fall 2012: Feminine Power

Before the show even began, all anyone could notice was that glossy red runway. Black ropes sectioned it off so not even the front row attendees could step on it. The collection began with some leather looks in hunter green and bordeaux (probably the biggest color trends for Fall ’12). Then moved onto some skirt suits and slinky dresses while finishing off with powerful cut-out and intricately beaded gowns.

These leather outfits, mixed with lace and chiffon, along with contrasting fabrics, patterns and textures are meant to come together to reveal confidence, beauty, strength and freedom. Hence the inspiration of feminine power for this collection.

I loved the dresses towards the end with the cut-outs. They have such a specific occasion but their impact on the runway is just unbelievable…and of course it takes a super confident woman to wear them!

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Some key looks from Reem Acra Fall 2012 via Style.com…

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Carlos Miele Fall 2012: Celebrating Brazil

For Fall 2012, Carlos Miele reinterprets the free life style and natural elegance of the Southern Brazil culture (specifically the women from Rio Grande do Sul) for a cosmopolitan audience.

Geometric prints, gold mixed with neutrals, and with intricate embroidery are all key ideas Carlos used for Fall ’12. The hats and sashes worn throughout are those of authentic gaúchas, which I thought was the perfect touch for these Brazilian-inspired looks. Oh, and there were live deejays for the show which was pretty rad.

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Lela Rose Fall 2012

Centered around the fusion of structure and movement, Lela Rose Fall 2012 was inspired by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava. His focus on romanticism and functionality was seen in Lela’s linear organza, floral embroideries and carbonized silk. Prominent colors in the collection include rust, amber, dark bronze and silver…which I thought were all unique color combinations that actually worked really well in one collection.

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An accidental focus led to this photo of Neiman Marcus’s Ken Downing, Shay Mitchell and Brad Goreski in the front row!

With all the events and shows I attend during fashion week, the whole swag bag thing can be overrated. However, with something as personal (and delicious) as this, I couldn’t help but love Lela Rose even more!

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Here’s a look at some of the key looks form Lela Rose Fall 2012 via Style.com.

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Tibi Fall 2012: The 3 M’s

Menswear-inspired. Monochromatic. Minimalist. The best way to sum up Tibi Fall 2012. The collection consists of neutrals in mostly grey and cream while the colors used seem to be an emerging trend for Fall ’12–burgundy and dark green. Patterns seen throughout include a black and cream square print, dark green plaid and a quirky bird print (which I loved).

Overall I was a huge fan of this collection. When you look at the pieces individually, they’re very wearable and easy to incorporate into any wardrobe. My absolute favorite look was the all green sparkling monochromatic outfit. Not sure if I personally would wear it but I LOVED it on the runway. And it was pretty cool to see 2 of my favorite models, Lindsey Wixson and Heidi Mount, walk in the show!

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Some key looks from the collection via Style.com

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