World According to S

New Home

2010-05-26T22:15:00.001-07:00

I've got a brand new website... same name but new address.

I'm moving on, sorting out my life and making dreams come true.

Please visit me at my new home:

www.sandraoconnell.com

Blog: www.sandraoconnell.com/blog

Erin Fetherston FW 2010

2010-02-15T21:05:00.000-08:00

Mick Jagger. 70's glam rocker. That's what came to mind as I scrolled through Erin Fetherston's collection. Minus the velvet (or was that velour) leggings, I thought the collection was gorgeous. Completely wearable.

Fall 2010 trend = orange. I haven't experimented with orange since I had an "It's Better in the Bahamas" orange sweatshirt in 1992.

This last dress is absolutely gorgeous. This is what I want to see Sandra Bullock wear instead of that hideous Bottega number she donned. Scratch that, I want to wear this one myself.

Doo.Ri FW 2010

2010-02-15T20:44:00.000-08:00

It's not that often that I can browse through a collection and love look after look. And I'm surprised that this phenomenon has occurred with Doo.Ri's FW 2010 collection. In the past I haven't been a huge fan of her designs. Sure, she's talented. But it's just not for me. Until now...

The splashes of orange paired with navy blue, the printed dresses and tops, the tailored trousers... it's as though the collection were designed for me. Side note: There is definitely a belted dress trend happening for next season.

Costello Tagliapietra FW 2010

2010-02-15T18:58:00.000-08:00

I've never paid much attention to Costello Tagliapietra (perhaps because it's such a long name) but this collection grabbed my attention. The colour palette, print fabric and simplicity of the dresses were beautiful. I particularly liked the choice of lipstick. I'm ordinarily not a lipstick fan, favouring tinting lip gloss instead, but the red heads in the show could actually pull off this vibrant colour. Something to consider... My only negative thought would be the fact that the collection gave off more of a spring vibe than fall. Vancouverites certainly could not wear these garments in the fall or winter.

ADAM FW 2010

2010-02-15T18:07:00.000-08:00

ADAM's FW 2010 collection had this simple and chic quality to it. Each garment looked effortless. Everything was cozy and comfortable... completely wearable. I wish I could wear it now. One of the best parts: The scuffed up slouched ankle boots made me feel ok about wearing my beat up boots around town.

Givenchy Couture

2010-01-26T19:52:00.000-08:00

The Parisian woman. The artistic, sad, tortured, sensual and incredibly fashionable Parisian woman. That was the theme at Riccardo Tisci's Givenchy couture show. The masculinity of some of the garments made the piece that much more feminine. If that makes sense. The collection was sensual and haunting.

But wait... is that a disco electric blue space-aged jumpsuit? Where does that fit in? Not to worry. There is also a purple one. The collection started off on a strong note with the ostrich feathers and tuxedo suits, then lost all focus and plummeted to the ground in a heap of clothes from David Bowie's Starman

Chanel Couture

2010-01-26T19:14:00.000-08:00

Where do I begin with Karl Lagerfeld's most recent display at the Chanel Couture Show? Silver is in, gold is out. Shorts are in, skirts stay in the closet. Minnie Mouse hair-do's are.... in?

I'm really not sure what to think of this collection. Some of the garments were better suited for my grandmother, some were just unflattering and then others were absolutely divine. I'm not sure where Mr. Lagerfeld is taking the design house - his personal style is certainly portrayed in this collection in the forms of fingerless gloves and a large black tie.

My favourite pieces had my mind racing with images of old Hollywood glamour, smoke filled rooms, bedroom eyes and lounge singers. It's unfortunate about the rest of the collection.

Thimister Couture

2010-01-25T20:40:00.000-08:00

Josephus Thimister showed a Fall 2010 (yes, this one is ahead of the pack somewhat) collection with strong references to Russia, bloodshed and the military. It was an interesting and captivating collection which defied all "rules" of traditional couture. The brilliant red used throughout was spellbinding, a colour that is sure to be prominent next Fall. Despite the obvious association to war, the collection also had a romantic quality, making me dream of dashing through snow covered woods to meet a forbidden lover.

It is definitely time to make a trip to the army surplus store.

Armani Prive Couture

2010-01-25T20:26:00.000-08:00

Georgio Armani, in comparison to Galliano, showed a clean palette of dreamy garments down the runway for his Armani Prive Couture collection. His inspiration, the moon, was portrayed in various forms throughout the collection - a half moon necklace, half moon jacket clasp, semi-circle details on skirts, and metallic fabrics, some as watery and slick as liquid mercury. Strong shoulders continued their reign in this collection - don't get rid of those shoulder pads just yet.

Dior Couture

2010-01-25T20:11:00.001-08:00

John Galliano for Christian Dior never fails to disappoint. Ever.

His Spring 2010 Haute Couture collection was stunning. His interpretation of equestrian and high society was a feast for the eyes. The colours Galliano paired together (oranges, purples, reds, greens) were intriguing and have inspired me to be more creative and take more risks with my choice of colours. I hope the tailored jackets and splendid colours will be translated into the more affordable retail outlets.

And, Prince Charming, please take me to a ball in one of these ball gowns.

Finally!

2010-01-25T20:05:00.000-08:00

Sandra Bullock has finally found a dress that makes her look stunning. She is wearing the dress and the dress isn't wearing her. Fingers crossed the dress she wears for the Oscars is as radiant as this Alexander McQueen number.

Golden Globe Style

2010-01-17T17:03:00.000-08:00

After several years of not watching any of the awards shows, I'm back on the band wagon and watching the Golden Globes. I was not disappointed, due in large part to Ricky Gervais. Can he please host every awards show from now on? I was in stitches.

Some other highlights:

Mo'Nique's acceptance speech was filled with so much emotion - it was inspiring.
Mickey Rourke and his gorgeous date (just how old was she?) couldn't keep their hands off each other.
Meryl Streep's speech was lovely lovely lovely.
Drew Barrymore's reference to Jeff Spicoli - awesome.

And now... on to the fashion. One shoulder dresses definitely made a statement on the red carpet, as did platform heels (NOT a favourite current trend of mine) and large drop earrings.

Here are my favourites:

Tea Leoni graced the red carpet in an oversized shirt and simple black skirt, a welcome change amongst all of the gowns. She looked stunningly understated and sexy.

Marion Cotillard donned a one shoulder number by Christian Dior.

Julia Roberts stole my attention in the red carpet special. She was full of personality (and perhaps some pre-awards show wine) and was absolutely glowing. Her hair was fantastic and that necklace was a great statement piece.

Carey Mulligan in Nina Ricca.

Sofia Vergara wore a grey gown with a splash of red across the bodice.

Ginnifer Goodwin's Vionnet dress was electrifying. The blue was stunning.

Courtenay Cox looked radiant.

Toni Collette's dress draped perfectly.

Meryl Streep accomplished simple elegance and looked beautiful in her classy gown.

Kevin Bacon's tuxedo, hair and glasses made me swoon. (Picture coming soon...)

Cameron Diaz looked exquisite in her brilliant red McQueen gown. The cap sleeves were a fantastic touch.

Jennifer Aniston was a knock out with her slit up to there by Valentino.

Gucci's Thighs

2010-01-11T07:27:00.000-08:00

Are the thighs of the girl in the Spring 2010 Gucci ad campaign for real? I think they are the same size as my calves. While the ad itself is artistic and fabulous, the fact that it is so obviously photoshopped kind of disgusts me.

Jennifer Lopez or Cher?

2010-01-01T16:04:00.000-08:00

Jennifer Lopez is a 10 in my book. Honestly. That booty, the curves, the hair. Hot. But when she donned a skintight glittery bodysuit last night all of my admiration for her went out the window.

What happened? Yes, she's still got a fantastic body, but must she wear something so hideous to show it off? Is she trying to keep up with the hijinx's of Lady Gaga or Rhianna? Need we remind you, J Lo, you are 40 (40!), not 26.

The costume she tried to pull off last night was reminiscent of Cher's fashion fiasco's. What's next? A new album filled with cheesy discoesque tunes that gay men everywhere will adopt as their own? I sincerely hope not.

Will the previously classy (and age appropriate) J Lo please step forward?

Jessica Simpson - A lesson in what not to do

2009-12-03T10:56:00.000-08:00

Just who is Jessica Simpson’s stylist? Who on earth would have let her make a public appearance wearing such a hideous and unflattering outfit? Is Jessica blind? Blurry eyed? Did she not look in the mirror before leaving her house? That dress is stretched far too tautly across her body. With that new curvier figure, she can’t wear the same clothes she used to. Unless she wants to earn some “Worst Dressed” credits, that is. There are plenty of clothes she can look fabulous in with some extra junk in her trunk. But perhaps something not quite so form fitting…

Please, Jessica, fire your stylist and hire me.

LA Awaits!

2009-11-29T17:34:00.000-08:00

I'm getting very excited for the impromptu trip to LA next weekend. Eight girls will be descending on Hollywood. This past weekend has been all about wardrobe planning. I think I'm all set for Saturday night... just have to figure out Sunday's outfit. I'm thinking shorts (not the bootie kind), sheer drapy black tank, brilliant blue light scarf and patent ankle booties that make my legs go all the way to heaven. My theme song for the weekend: ZZ Top - She's Got Legs.

Perfecto.

Spent the better part of this afternoon with Annie and Jenn helping them figure out their wardrobe choices. I won't reveal what Annie's going to wear... but it's going to be like nothing she's ever worn before. And out of this world. I'm really excited to see her in it.

I've been browsing on different LA Street Style blogs and on Style.com to get some inspiration for the trip. The below are my favourites:

Definitely expect an update apres trip.

The agenda so far:

Staying at the Roosevelt (again)
Pre drinks at Dakota or Katsuya
Dinner at Beso
Then hopefully Voyeur or Teddy's... or.... anywhere there's a party.
Fingers crossed I have another run in with Leo DiCaprio ;) That would be swell.

New York Fashion Week SS 2010 - Part Three

2009-09-20T15:25:00.000-07:00

3.1 Phillip Lim

Phillip's collection was fantastically showcased against a red backdrop. His colour palette was filled with red, grey, khaki's and black. It was a beautifully done, sophisticated collection for that typically chic and young New York woman. All of his looks can easily be translated to the street and I look forward to purchasing similar styles of clothes next Spring, because who am I kidding... my budget does not include actual 3.1.

Badgley Mischka

While some of Badgley Mischka's designs were a little too flamboyant for me, there were definitely some gems amongst them. The collection made me want to head to St Barths. Anyone want to finance that trip for me?

Betsey Johnson

She's the quintessential free spirit at fashion week and this collection didn't disappoint. Think can can dancers mixed with punk rocker.

Carlos Miele

Love. Pure and simple. This collection is gorgeous. If I were a celebrity, these are the gowns I would be rocking on the red carpet. Hands down one of my favourite collections thus far.

DKNY

I look forward to this collection each year because it's normally quite edgy and street. This season, I wasn't digging the whole thing. Just a few pieces here and there. The floral prints weren't really my cup of tea but I'm loving the slouchy, masculine trousers and blazers. And strappy shoes were to die for.

Donna Karan

Definitely a bigger fan of Donna's main line this season. Talk about chic... I can honestly say without a doubt that I loved the whole collection. With each click of my mouse, browsing through the outfits I got more and more excited about it. I had to do everything in my will power to not just put up all the looks on here.

Doo.Ri

While nothing really blew me away, Doo.Ri's collection was filled with pretty pieces that'll do great at the retail level. Not sure if the blue lipstick will catch on though...

L'Wren Scott

Perhaps it's because this woman is actually taller than me, but I love her. I do. Her clothing is impeccably tailored and chic.

Marchesa

Marchesa gowns are practically couture. They are so beautifully made and opulent. Like dresses from a fairy tale.

Marc Jacobs

While I would never wear the clothes that Marc designs as they just aren't my style, I still enjoy checking out the clothes he sends down the runway. This time around, his models were actually frightening. I saw scary Japanese mimes. There may be nightmares in my future.

Michael Kors

I watched this show live and loved every minute of it. Michael Kors is an American icon. He knows exactly how to capture that American chic look. If only fellow Americans could catch on...
I absolutely want this bathing suit for next summer.

Naeem Khan

I had never heard of Naeem Khan before today but it's a name I hope to hear again. This collection was beautiful with a hint of 1920's.

Oscar de la Renta

This man is a genius. I can't remember a show where he hasn't excelled. Rich colours and faultless embroidery. I would like to wear these pieces while strolling down the Rue St Honore in Paris... maybe on my next trip...

Proenza Schouler

I've been a fan of Proenza Schouler since they started and their collections keep evolving into one that is better than the last. This collection was like looking inside an aquarium filled with glimmering tropical fish. They may want to reconsider some of their models though... or perhaps force feed them backstage.

Ralph Lauren

I love Ralph Lauren's casual collection. Poor boy hats, boyfriend jeans, big shirts.

Rodarte

This futuristic design duo may just be my favourites... hmmm... how many favourites have I mentioned so far?

New York Fashion Week SS 2010 - Part Two

2009-09-13T19:51:00.000-07:00

Alright... as promised, here's some more of the best of NYC Fashion Week:

Jason Wu

I loved the runway and set that Jason Wu showed his collection on. It was an absolutely gorgeous collection. The prints were beautiful, as were the flirty skirts. You know how much I love my pretty party dresses and this collection had no shortage of those. I even liked the feathers... and I don't do feathers.

Jeremy Laing

I got some Rodarte flashbacks from this collection (particularly from the first couple of outfits), which is probably why I loved it. And while most of the pieces certainly weren't items I would ever wear, the construction and the designs were beautifully done.

Juan Carlos Obando

Loved the splattered (almost Hypercolor) and rich looking fabric used in this collection. It was edgy and hot. Not keen on those gladiator / boot things... I love finding new designers to follow.

L.A.M.B.

This has to be my favourite celebrity turned designer out there. She's got a great eye and her clothes are always eclectic yet wearable. L.O.V.E. L.A.M.B. Although... her models could certainly gain a few pounds.

Luca Luca

I loved that this collection made me want to go to Paris to stroll along the Seine. I really need to go back to my natural curls...

Ports 1961

The colour and the beautiful silks in this collection made it absolutely exquisite. Definitely a lot of Asian influences here. Looks like obi's are being carried over to next season too.

Preen

Hello preen.

Rag & Bone

Danny, Vincent, Will and Briane distracted me from the actual collection. Funny how that happens...

United Bamboo

I have never heard of this line and I'm now a new fan. Fabulous party dresses.

William Rast

Justin Timberlake isn't just a pretty face. Look what else he does.

New York Fashion Week SS 2010 - Part One

2009-09-13T16:48:00.001-07:00

I love this time of year.... It's fashion week season! I must admit, I'm a little bit behind on all my New York Fashion Week shows. So I've set aside a couple hours today (yes, you really do need that long at least) to peruse the latest shows. One of the best parts of sitting down and looking at all of the designers is discovering designers that I've never heard of. Sure, everyone loves the Marc Jacobs, Oscar de la Renta and DKNY shows, but I also love some of the lesser knowns... I hope you have the time to check some of them out too.

Here are the highlights (and some lowlights) so far:

ADAM

While I thought most of this collection was a little bit blah, I did enjoy this particular look.

I love the colour in the shoes that ties the whole outfit together. I think I would wear this with a necklace though...

Alexander Wang

I must admit, I was a little disappointed with Mr. Wang's collection. It was too casual, too American for my tastes. I was hoping for hot and skinny European black numbers that he clothes all the models with. But not this time... I did not dig the football theme one bit. Not many retail friendly pieces here.

Altuzarra

This collection was a little bit 70's / Little House on the Prairie / bodice ripping romance novel. Can you picture it? Sound a little weird? Yeah... some of it was. I loved the shoes in this collection.

BCBG Max Azria

I have only just discovered the greatness of the the BCBG store in Vancouver - it certainly helped that I discovered it during sale season - and I can't wait for these two beauties to hit the racks next season. Although, I may have to venture into an outlet to put less strain on the wallet...

Boy by Band of Outsiders

These clothes are fabulous for a casual summer day / night. I want it all (well, except those long underwear type saggy crotch onesies)! And check out this red head's hair... that's exactly what I want my hair to do.

Charlotte Ronson

This Flashdance-esque collection really did it for me. The delicate sheer leggings are on my wishlist for spring and I so wish I had the balls to rock one of those head bands.

Cynthia Steffe

This collection was very very pretty and feminine but I couldn't help but notice how young the models looked. Some of them certainly weren't a day over 13.

Elie Tahari

While I used to think that I was just too young to wear Elie Tahari, this collection is actually quite youthful. Or maybe I'm just getting old?

Gary Graham

I love the British feel this collection has. It's romantic and old and that British side in me finds it all very appealing.

Oh wow... it's taking me a whole lot longer than I anticipated to go through all these shows... to be continued...

Tick Tock

2009-09-12T13:23:00.000-07:00

I am obsessed with men's watches. I want one for myself. I greatly dislike those dainty wrist watches on women.

So I was absolutely thrilled when I saw this watch in one of my daily Shop Bop emails last week. Comes in silver or gold. I want one of each... is that too extravagant?

Also in the email was a selection of women's clothing inspired by menswear. Check it out here. I love almost every thing on the page. If only I hadn't done my new budget last weekend...

SJP's dress

2009-09-02T21:55:00.001-07:00

Have you seen the new latest and greatest images from the set of Sex and the City 2? I am in love with Carrie Bradshaw's outfit. It's absolutely gorgeous. It looks so comfortable and I could see myself wearing this casually or dressed up. I want...

Oh... to have her wardrobe....

80's Revivals

2009-08-11T08:03:00.000-07:00

Thank you ShopBop for making the 80's comeback so f'in rad.

ooh la la... couture

2009-07-11T21:00:00.000-07:00

I'm a little late on checking out the latest Fall 2009 couture shows. But better late than never right? (Side note: I stumbled upon some fabulous French radio station - I couldn't tell you which one as I don't have a digital tuner - but it's getting me in the mood. Now all I need is a baguette and a bottle of wine)

Alexis Mabille

Some of it was oh so pretty. I'm talking french countryside, ribbons, bows and lace pretty. But other pieces were far too kitschy bedroom frou frou with too many bows and feathers. Here are some of my favourites:

Armani Prive

1940's fabulous. Dark, sultry, sex appeal. Love. This is how I want to dress when I'm in my 40's. Or 50's... let's face it, 50 is the new 40. If I keep up with my new fitness regime, I'm well on my way to milfdom.

Chanel

I'm not sure about the Chanel collection this time around. The booties were far from sexy and the tweed suits were designed for the most conservative fashionistas around, and were heavy on the drab side. The loveliest accessories were the sexy patterned tights and the lacy fingerless gloves. I am adding gloves onto my wishlist - I don't care if they're a little too Like a Virgin Madonna. I have to say, as the show went on, the designs got more appealing (see the beauties below), but I certainly wouldn't label this as my favourite Chanel show.

I could picture someone like Belle de Jour wearing this getup:

Christian Dior

Oh Galliano. His designs are so distinctly Galliano. You can spot a Dior from miles away. This couture show didn't disappoint. Striking colours and 1940's glamour mixed with exposed garter belts and pointed bras. It was a Richard Avedon photoshoot come to life. As I clicked through the show images on Style.com each design popped out at me, nothing was boring, everything left me wanting to see more and more. By far my favourite show of the season.

Christian Lacroix

This was certainly less extravagant than shows past, but Christian Lacroix managed to show an alluring collection on what limited funds he had. But let's be honest, Lacroix can not show a collection that is completely void of the baubles and lavishness that is in his nature - there were still pieces in this show that would absolutely still appeal to Edina and Patsy. The wedding gown, in particular, was true Lacroix flamboyance.

Elie Saab

There are whisperings (and some booming voices) in the fashion world that Monsieur Saab may have paid too much attention to the Chanel show in January. An all white show? Again? Hmmm... suspicious. Much of the collection looked cheap and little too Snow Angel at Brandi's Show Lounge. But a few pieces caught my eye.

Givenchy

Of the small 22 look collection, I only liked this one design. Got to say, not a fan of Givenchy this season. I thought the collection lacked cohesiveness and there was nothing that tied it all together. Tisci was all over the place - next time, pick a theme and go with it.

Jean Paul Gaultier

After Galliano, this collection was one of my favourites. He depicted women as powerful beings, able to take over the world, let alone the bedroom. The Gaultier woman is not one to be messed with. I want it all! (Particularly for my looming LA trip).

Valentino

And last but not least... Valentino. Jumping on the black lace and bow bandwagon, the Valentino collection screamed sex appeal. Despite the absence of brilliant red, Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Piccioli are carrying on the legend's fire with this sultry and beautiful collection.

Summer Wish List

2009-06-30T17:02:00.000-07:00

My daily Shopbop email the other day blew me away with some fantastic summer looks. I'm getting really excited to branch out this summer in the way of wardrobe. And especially excited to try out some stuff in LA that I wouldn't ordinarily wear in Vancouver.

Here's what's on my wish list:

Diane Von Furstenberg Harem Pants - I'm apprehensive about buying clothes online and doubly apprehensive about buying pants online due to my height and the standard length of pants. I will for sure be on the search for these pants in LA. They listed at an entirely affordable $165. Hello Harem pants. Plus, I'm really loving the side slits. Hot.

White Jeans by J Brand - I'm not sure if I would get up the guts to actually leave the house in these fabulous jeans, but I love them all the same. It's really only those girls who are a tall size 2 that can get away with skinny white jeans. Yes, I may have some body image issues...

Red Dolce Vita Sandals - I'm always on the look out for flat sandals and these ones fit the bill. Unfortunately, they don't come in size 11.

LAMB heels - These scream sex on legs. These are worth cramming my feet into a size 10.

Now I just a) need a new job with a higher salary or b) need to win the lottery.

Shop Bop

2009-06-06T18:19:00.000-07:00

These two outfits arrived in my Shop Bop email... suffice it to say, lovin them

I'm loving these denim sleeveless, cropped jackets right now.