cabinet of curiosity - alexander mcqueen

Consisting of approximately 100 pieces, Alexander McQueen's exhibition: Savage Beauty was exhilarating. It's only fitting that the Met would organize such an exhibition of this magnitude for a genius that is sorely missed in the fashion industry. The exhibition is divided into six different themes that sum up the icon's work. As I walked through each theme I took in every intricate detail of his extraordinary work. A man that is so passionate not just for fashion but history, art and humanity has created masterpieces that is a resistance to modern fashion...intriguing, considering one of the greatest compliments in fashion is to call something modern.  McQueen set himself apart by using controversial, biographical and historical references to build a collection. With 1 hour to spare before I caught a flight back to San Francisco I managed to relive McQueen's sick fantasy of Gothic obsessions and romantic exoticism. I could feel his presence billowing through me as I closely examined his craftsmanship. An eerie, dark emotional vibe weighed heavily throughout the whole experience. My journey through the Met will be one I will never forget. Leaving the exhibition I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming love for a man that spent his whole career alone suffering from pain, societies scrutiny and yet he was able to change the worlds views through his works of fashion.

"When you see a woman wearing McQueen, there's a certain hardness to the clothes that make her look powerful. It kind of fends people off" - Alexander McQueen 

"I'm about what goes through people's minds, the stuff people don't want to admit or face up to. The shows are about what's buried in people's psyches." - Alexander McQueen

"I'm a romantic schizophrenic. Some people think I've become softer with this spring collection, but it's always been in my work. There may be an Edgar Allan Poe romance to it - it's not a heart-on-your-sleeve type thing - but that's just my personality. I've always been very sensitive, very romantic, but not everyone has seen that." - Alexander McQueen 

"These beautiful models were walking around in the room, and then suddenly this woman who wouldn't be considered beautiful was revealed. It was about trying to trap something that wasn't conventionally beautiful to show that beauty comes from within." - Alexander McQueen 

"Beauty can come from the strangest of places, even the most disgusting of place" - Alexander McQueen 

"For me, what I do is an artistic expression which is channeled through me. Fashion is just the medium." - Alexander McQueen 

"It's the ugly things I notice more, because other people tend to ignore the ugly things." - Alexander McQueen 

"You've got to know the rules to break them. That's what I'm here for, to demolish the rules but to keep the tradition" - Alexander McQueen 

"It's important to look at death because it's a part of life. It is a sad thing, melancholic but romantic at the same time. It is the end of a cycle - everything has to end. The cycle of life is positive because it gives room for new things." - Alexander McQueen 

"There is no way back for me now. I am going to take you on journeys you've never dreamed were possible." - Alexander McQueen 

{images: the huffington post} 

freida pinto

Actress, Freida Pinto who stars in the August issue of Interview is not afraid to show her sultry side. Shot by Mert & Marcus, Pinto features a few of her favorite designers - Stella McCartney, Versace & Christopher Kane in a black and white spread. Fiery Freida is well respected within the Indian community, but has undergone scrutiny for her recent editorial shots, which I happen to love. Strong, committed, cultured and outspoken...Pinto is on the rise of becoming the darling of the worlds of fashion. 

Read the article on InterviewMagazine.com 

{images: fashion gone rogue} 

{maxi-mum style}

The maxi skirt is one of the most dramatic trends this season with its floor skimming length and graceful drape. The best part of this trend is that it only requires a few pieces. The Olsen sisters are known for rocking this look with a simple black knit maxi highlighting easiness and minimalism. I opted for a bi-color printed blouse and topped it off with a basic blazer for a refined, yet effortless look. Not convinced? See how real people translate this trend...

maxi skirt: nordstrom, blouse: joie, blazer: theory, sandals: reiss, necklace: giles and brother, bracelets: brfs, ring: br 

{fragility of femininity}

Flowing silk and tulle coupled with exceptionally sweet hair and make-up can only mean one thing...Elie Saab Fall 2011 Couture. Saab's collection is award winning and definitely Oscar worthy. His runway collection was the perfect way to end Couture Fashion Week in Paris. The color palette ranged from white, tones of blush, caramel bronze, and royal blue. These princess-like ethereal dresses are bound to grace the red carpet. I can't wait to see who will be the lucky girl to wear a look from his collection. Drool worthy...

{images: fashionologie} 

{carmel-by-the-sea}

My husband and I spent a lovely weekend in Monterey for our five year wedding anniversary - back where it all happened. The Lodge at Pebble Beach brought back over-flowing memories of our precious day, and the afternoon couldn't be any sweeter. I walked down the same stairs that I walked five years back to greet my father, and continued to walk the aisle on the 18th green where the commencement began. We strolled down the pier where our wedding party gathered for a quirky photoshoot. After all the walking my husband and I deservingly enjoyed a champagne brunch that offered an endless spread. We sat over-looking the green where there was sweet reminiscing of all the magical things you dream a wedding could be. A peak into our anniversary weekend...

maxi dress: daftbird from heidi says, blazer: jcrew, belt: br, handbag: topshop for fred segal, necklace: br, watch: rolex, friendship bracelet: wink nyc, ring: br, sandals: reiss, lipstick: impassioned by mac

{coral-fixation}

Forget the mini, there's a new length in town! It's all about the mid-length skirt, and although I'm no Alexa Chung, this summer trend fits the bill for many body types. You just need to stick with some conventional style rules that will ensure a flawless outfit. If you're drawn to a minimalist fashion style opt for a vibrant flowy skirt and pair back to a basic blouse. The "midi" skirt is a classic item and it's safe to assume that this will become a must have for the season.

blouse: joie, skirt: marmalade, belt: tory burch, shoes: joie, handbag: fred segal by top shop, necklace: giles & brother, ring: br, bangles: banana republic outlet, lipstick: heat wave by nars

{love story}

My husband and I are celebrating our five year wedding anniversary this weekend, and I couldn't help but share our precious memories with my readers. Enjoy! 

This post is dedicated to my husband - I love you for putting your hand in my heart, and over-looking all my foolishness that lies there. And for drawing out everything beautiful that only you took the time to discover. Happy Anniversary...

{images: Tara Arrowood}