The CHARME POUDRE ~ Iris Apfel

This month's issue of Architectural Digest pays tribute to the fashion guru, decorator and cofounder of Old World Weavers, Iris Apfel. Here some pictures in the New York City apartment she shares with her husband, Carl.The octogenarian grande Dame's apartment boasts all the delights of a well-lived life. Here her eclectic fashion sense in some bold and playful ensembles from her extensive wardrobe (Photograph courtesy of the Costume Institute at the Metropolitan Museum of Art). "Clothes are not frippery. Properly done, they can be an art form" says Apfel. 

The RUNWAY ~ The Dior New Look is back

Dior started off Paris Haute Couture week today showing off retro silhouettes and bold makeup for a strong spring 2011 showing. Voluminous shapes with cinched waists, airy hats . John Galliano gave a runway show of utmost retro opulence and glamour. 

New Look: 64 years ago, those same two words signified one of the most important changes the fashion world has seen. In 1947, the couturier Christian Dior introduced his New Look that transformed women's appearances after years of military and civilian uniforms. New look radical style featuring rounded shoulders, cinched waists and ultra-feminine skirts was a dramatic change from wartime austerity styles. Dior’s lavish use of material was a bold and shocking stroke. His style used yards and yards of fabric.

The FASHION HISTORY ~ Valli vs. Vionnet

Yesterday and Today.

“When a woman smiles, her dress should smile too”.

"Esaltare la donna e in ciascuno dei suoi abiti comporre una sorta di poema in sé compiuto".

Madeleine Vionnet

The FASHION HISTORY ~ Modern Sherazad?

I am completely smitten by the exotic Belle Epoque designs of French fashion genius Paul Poiret. Visonnaire, the couturier has revolutionized the vestiaire Belle Epoque and still inspired today collections. Much of the inspiration for the coats, dresses, and accessories on runways today originated in Poiret's designs of almost 100 years ago. I have been struck by several showings this season, but one show in particular has stood out in my mind: Marchesa. Georgina Chapman and Keren Craig gave a stunning presentation for their Spring/Summer 2011 collection. But I couldn't help notice lot of references made to fashion history designers, Paul Poiret in particular.

A stated tribute to the King of fashion and his exotic oriental style or a lack in inspiration? Hope you enjoy my fashion history voyage! Do you think Marchesa can stand the comparison?