Instagramin' It Up!

If there's one thing I love, it's ever-popular Instagram- an amazing tool that helps me share gorgeous photos with my friends/followers. The Girl In The Check Scarf just got a brand new Instagram account, so be sure to follow for behind-the-scenes pics, fashion photography, and lots of instagram goodness! @TheGirlInTheCheckScarf
Do you use instagram? How do you use it, and why do you like it? I want to know!

With the help of IBM Smarter Commerce, for the month of February, I'll be talking about how technology and social media help me to be a better blogger, friend, and social influencer. How does technology affect and enhance your life? Let me know by leaving a comment or tweeting me @theposhkid. Don't forget to use the #MySmarterCommerce hashtag!

Candela Fall 2013 Review: Fashion On The Prairie

Fashion on the prairie; Candela's fall 2013 collection took its 1920's woman on a field trip through the wilderness. Typical grungy pieces - denim shirts, oversized sweaters, and black leather jackets- were given the western treatment when adorned with countless fringes and lace accents. Everyday pieces were paired with short, sparkly flapper-style skirts and lace midis and maxis. I really take note when a collection invents a new styling idea, and Candela did just that. Shiny, beautiful bejeweled headbands and brooches were placed on top of casual beanie hats- I definitely want to try this at home!

Trend wise, the collection was spot on. The fall 2013 collections have been sprinkled with hints of glitter and glamour, and sheer skirts have been popular on the runways. My favorite look was the long pink satin gown paired with a white beanie- quite a showstopper.

Review: Noon By Noor Spring 2013

"Ah, I love a good Kell Cutrone sighting." I thought as I settled into my seat at the Noon By Noor show, however, my thought was quickly interrupted by throngs of photographers dashing past me to grab a shot of Nicky Hilton and Olivia Palermo.  

I really enjoyed the collection, with its watermelon, green, beige, golds, metallic coppers, bright pink, orange, nudes, and green tones all living together in harmony. The color and texture combinations within the collection were exciting: super glamorous ball gowns had neon appliques, and a pink blazer had neon pink feathers adorning the shoulders. Despite these fresh pops of color, many of the looks remained very classic and sophisticated. My favorite pieces were their marvelous wide-leg pants that came an an array of prints and colors, a sleek neutral jumpsuit, and their many simple orange dresses with expert draping.

My favorite print was the blown-up florals that were seen on the first look and on a few shorts and jumpsuits- having such a large print made the idea of floral seem more art-y than cutesy.
The cuts in the collection were very feminine and flowy-but-fitted, rather than being baggy. Safari-style shirts, gowns, and even suits shared a relaxed, chill vibe. T-shirts and tank tops were styled with full-length skirts with high slits. The effect was very day-meets-night.

If you're wondering about the name, Noon by Noor comes from the Arabic letter for 'N', which is pronounced as 'noon', and Noor is the middle name of the line's Bahraini founder, Shaikha Noon Al Khalifa.

photos from zimbio.com

Ann Yee Fall 2012 Review

The Ann Yee fall 2012 presentation during fashion week was everything a good presentation should be; helpful PR girls quickly let you in, it starts more or less on time, the vibe is one that is relaxed and pleasant, the designer is mingling, the atmosphere is bright, the space is busy- but not overcrowded, and the clothes are extraordinary. It was a really nice break from the usually loud, stressful, over-crowded shows and presentations that usually take place during fashion week. Also, they served sweet pastel rock candies. I can't not like a brand who gives a tired 16 year-old rock candy.

           

Ann excitedly told me that the collection was inspired by caves and the contrasting textures that you would find there (i.e. water cascading down walls, sharp jagged rocks, etc.). The collection really reflected that, and was a great mix of soft shapes and hard edges, which are a specialty of Ann's. Crisply cut pieces that should have been stiff and heavy were re-invented in unexpected way with light chiffons, flowing  fabrics, chunky knits. More edgy pieces were paired with beautiful, light, feminine (yet sculptural) dresses. It was a perfect combination! The shapes presented were also interesting; the collection had everything from over-sized knits to girly crop tops. (Crop tops were quite popular on the spring runways as well. I think I've bought 3 crop tops so far this season! I love them.) 

Check out the awesome over-sized and double collars! I also love the different asymmetrical hems. 

The hair is rather Janelle Monáe-esque, no?

The entire collection was styled with beautiful statement jewelry by Linhardt and each look was paired with Doc Martens. I really loved that they did that! It saved each look from being too soft and gave it a bit of an edge. 

You can check out Ann Yee on the web here, and be sure to follow her on twitter and facebook!

FYI- Only one day left to enter the iconemesis iPhone case giveaway!