Yves Saint Laurent 2012 Pre Fall

It is no secret that I'm crazy about YSL. Their shoes are my favorite, but I'll pretty much take anything. I looked over the new Pre Fall collection and the first thing I thought was "I need all these pants." The opening trench with the leather and wool blend... it's very international spy. Add a pair of sunglasses and I could be in any major European city handling surveillance of a suspected arms dealer. It could happen. YSL always does great bags and a proper blouse. This color palate totally suits me as I'm partial to greys. I'm not usually a fan of tans, but I think I could give this dress a try because of the sleeves and the keyhole. I'd have to change the shoes, but I think it's cute.

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From the Fashion Library - Daphne Guinness

I have decided to build a Fashion Library for posterity. There are so many great books being published that are full of photos, interviews, and personal anecdotes. Some of my favorite designers and icons have already released fantastic publications. I felt inspired and compelled to start another collection. I already have a few good volumes, but the number is steadily growing.

My new DAPHNE GUINNESS book arrived the other day at some insanely early hour. Cheers Amazon.com. The book, however, was worth the early morning rise. It is well written and definitely a volume that should be added to your collection. Guinness touches on a range of topics, giving her unique opinion accompanied by stunning photos. Co authored by Valerie Steele, the chief curator of the Museum @ Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City,  it is a compilation of photographs from editorials, interviews, and some paparazzi shots. THE BOOK showcases some of the style icon's personal collections of haute couture, shoes, and jewelry as well as touches on some of her relationships with designers, photographers, and stylists.

It is visually stunning and super glossy. It will look great on anyone's coffee table.

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Alexander McQueen 2012 Pre Fall

I remember where I was the day I heard that Lee Alexander McQueen had died. I was walking down 7th Avenue on my way to a pattern making class when I received a text message from a friend. The mood on campus that day was a mix of grief and disbelief. Many skipped class to head to the McQueen store, purchasing whatever they could get their hands on. Trying to acquire the last pieces there would ever be from a great artist. His death was a loss for us all.

Sarah Burton has done a fantastic job carrying on the name, a task I don't envy. I am loving the belts over the coats and capes, skinny sleeves, and high collars. That crisp white shirt has a lot of elements, but it works. It all feels very Sherlock Holmes to me, but modern. I could be wearing that cape whilst out solving mysteries with Jude Law... A McQueen coat is always a good purchase. I'm typically not a fan of lace, but here, it's lovely. Then there's that fur coat. Is that astrakhan? It's perfect. 

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