Balmain has been one of the most coveted collections for the past few seasons, but of course you are already aware. And though these recessionary times don't permit us to dole out twelve thousand for leather moto jackets, accessories are usually the ticket into our idolized designers' worlds. Fortunately, Balmain designer Christophe Decarnin has issued many fetish-worthy footwear options that epitomize the rock-chic glam that has now become synonymous with Balmain.
If your budget isn't Balmain-friendly Report has got you covered with their Lyndon (criss-crossing multi-zippers) and Kechi (criss-crossing multi-buckle) boot options. Sans silver-tone hardware--brass buckles and zippers are used--both booties are exemplary selections for gaining rocker chic cred.
The one shoulder look was a popular theme for spring/summer 09--from Jil Sander to Michael Kors and scores of other designers-- which looks great on the body-con dress. The Row's chic Italian-made long sleeve 'Warwick' dress, available at Barneys New York, is definitely a style splurge, so if you need to save look over to Jay Godfrey's one-shouldered number with 3/4 sleeve. Or you can get this major look for a mini price (in comparison to the others) with TopShop's 3/4 sleeve one shoulder jersey dress, available in purple (shown), coral or a navy blue & white striped pattern.
The perfect shoe to transcend all seasons, Fendi's classic yet edgy black patent 'Vertebrae' (available at Barneys New york) is cool and chic for spring and summer; pair with tights for autumn and winter wear.
The just as chic 'Merriee' from Steve Madden is high in style (but not in price) and in addition to black patent, it's also available in blush and gold leather.
Manolos and minis and men, three of a girl's favorite things. And Barneys New York's got you covered on the first offering Manolo Blahnik's patent and elastic wide ankle cuff 'Pepe' (also available in white and flesh).
Or strut your stuff, for a fraction of the cost, in Guess' 'Digital' sandal. This polished patent leather shoe is also available in red.
The center of attention and ahead of the fashion pack is where you'll be in this eye-catching avant-garde ensemble. Emilio Pucci's signature Madeira printed dress with it's complex tailoring paired with Giuseppe Zanotti's standout-and up-leather-edged vinyl strapped wedge with cut-out detail make for true boundary-pushing style. Accessorize with Marni's quirky yet chic wavy horn bracelet and Armani Exchange's fabric wrapped metal hoop earrings, but don't forget Santi's elegantly colorful sequined clutch-unexpectedly different which makes it oddly perfect.
Straight off Alexander Wang's spring 2009 sporty-luxe runway is the Alexis, a fashion-forward platform thong ankle boot with a fringed topline in sleek black leather.
If the swanky Alexis speaks to you, but not your pocket book, then a style steal is in order...walk straight into fashion-forward territory with Forever 21's faux leather version of this trendy boot.
The allure of Louboutins scarlet undercarriage is undeniable, and whether you're looking to go professional or preppy-or a little bit of both-the Peniche, a sexy update to the classic penny loafer, (available in wine, grey or black patent leather at Barneys or dark grey suede at Bluefly) is your answer.
However, if the covetable Peniche's price tag isn't speaking your monetary language you can steal this style with Guess' Allasandra; the platform peep toe loafer is available in black patent with contrast stitching, sans red sole, but still tres chic.
style is so personal . . . it is a visual extension of thoughts, feelings and moods, which is why it can change ever so subtly or in the most grandeur fashion and, when it is genuine, can never truly be wrong.
~ terra black
noun, [stahyl - ol - uh - jee]
1. knowledge that enables a mode of expressing oneself by selecting and arranging apparel & accessories which become clearly and effectively complementary and or successful on the wearer
2. having knowledge of a particular, distinctive, or characteristic mode of dressing that references a group, period, person, personality, etc.
3. knowing what is, as well as how to execute, an elegant, fashionable, or luxurious mode of dressing
