Wednesday, January 28, 2009

Behind the Label - Ralph Lauren

Since its inception in 1968, Ralph Lauren has become a powerful brand that put its stamp on everything from tuxedos to tennis uniforms. It all started with the famous Polo shirt, which Lauren created to embody the spirit of American aristocracy (something the middle-class boy from the Bronx only imagined while growing up). After launching his collection with a wide tie that became a must-have among New York's young and stylish, the designer expanded his repertoire to include the famous polos, then women's wear, formal wear and a bigger selection of sports clothes. After a brief setback in the late-1980s, when casual preppy attire was replaced by slick business suits by Armani and Dolce & Gabbana, Lauren struck back with licensing deals for fragrances and home lines, plus the Ralph Lauren blue label, which quickly became an empire on its own for classic, elegant evening wear. Purple and Black Labels followed, and Ralph Lauren's sporty Polo brand was soon balanced by fancier, more expensive lines offering silk ball gowns and six-ply cashmere cardigans. Today, Lauren's formula for creating effortlessly chic style is a hot commodity—and often imitated.







Wednesday, January 21, 2009

Fashion designers targets breast cancer initiative



The Council of Fashion Designers of America launch some fabulous designer gear to raise awareness for Fashion Targets Breast Cancer Worldwide. You too can get Daria, Lily Donaldson, Lily Cole, Du Juan and Sasha Pivovarova's look by investing in one of these polo shirts, £55, designed by Ralph Lauren. Available in yellow, green, red and blue, more than 80% of the sale price will be donated. The campaign was shot by top photographer, Patrick Demarchelier.

Since 1994, when the initiative was founded, the Council of Fashion Designers of America's charitable interests have been with Fashion Targets Breast Cancer (FTBC). To raise awareness and money for its cause, the CFDA has partnered with Net-a-Porter to begin selling limited-edition FTBC items created by designers like Ralph Lauren, Rachel Roy, Oscar de la Renta, and Diane von Furstenberg.
Though the items will be sold throughout the year, the first available is a Ralph Lauren FTBC polo shirt, $75, exclusive to Net-a-Porter. The net proceeds of all sales will stay in the purchaser's country, whether in the U.S. or abroad.


Friday, January 16, 2009

The latest fashion trend


When looking at the fashion forecast, 2009 should be a year of optimism, boldness and femininity. A few of 2008's trends, like ruffles, purple and floral prints will transition nicely into 2009, and some older trends are resurfacing as well. With a little rummaging through the closet, it should only take a few new items to freshen up your wardrobe for the new year. With some guidance from the red carpet and the runway's designer clothes collection, here are the 2009 trends we're looking forward to:

Be Bold
While we may feel like wearing black in these tough economic times, 2009 is all about bold and bright colors. Pantone, the "global authority on color," has selected mimosa as the must-have shade for 2009. The orange-hued yellow is a color that is undeniably cheery and hopeful. Another buzzy color is pink. While all its various hues are on-trend, hot pink is a particular winner. Rich purples, reds and blues will also keep your wardrobe bright in '09.

Glitz and Glamour
Whether they cover an entire garment or are just sprinkled throughout a look, sequins should be very popular. Sequined dresses, skirts, tops and simple sequined accents and accessories will make any look eye-catching. Also bringing sparkle and shine to your closet are metallic fabrics. Bronze, silver and gold shades will provide plenty of glitz without all the added weight of sequins.


Sheer Genius
Sheer fabrics can add a touch of sexy sophistication to your closet. You'll see the sheer trend as inserts on classic pieces and in whimsical layers.

Neutral Territory
In direct opposition to the bold color trend we see beige making a surge. Designers like Ralph Lauren showcased the look at New York Fashion Week. The neutral tone makes a simple and elegant statement and provides the perfect palette for bold accessories.

Baggy Bottoms
Whether you like it or not, the wide-leg look is in; bell-bottom jeans and flowing trousers were seen all over the runways. For a dressy interpretation look for loose-fitting silk pants.


 
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