2011 Haute Attack...

What a year 2011 has been for the fashion industry. It reminded me that fashion is all about self expression, experimentation, and above all, meant to be fun. Lets take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the year's best trends.

...PRINTS CHARMING...

Patterns and prints became the new black. From the enthusiasm of the fashion eccentric you would never guess that we were in the middle of a recession. Fashion gave us permission to be creative again, go with your instinct, and ultimately wear what you feel great in...Who can argue with that?! One can't help but smile when a motley crew of plaid, leopard, and the likes come parading down the street two by two. And all ended happily ever after in the land of Glam Slam!

...COLOR FOR DAYS...

Bold pops of color was every fashionistas' ammo this year. Pastels took a back seat to the electric shades of neon and rich pigmented hues. The color explosion rejuvenated classic silhouettes and breathed life into complexions. From this trend the editorial world proved that color can be a neutral with endless possibilities--all of which permeated into the Fall/Winter collections as well as Spring/Summer.

...COLOR BLOCKING...

The rebirth of color opened the doors to unstoppable color blocking. Blocking aficionados spanned the spectrum by coordinating one color, head to toe, in varying shades as well as by pairing pieces that fall opposite on the color wheel. Stylist Elisa Nalin might just be the poster child for this block party. In reality there are no rules here--which could be the explanation for its warm embrace.

...SNEAKER HEAD...

Sneakers went toe to toe with heels this year. It could be the practicality of comfort to keep up with a busy life (HELLO, we are already at the end of 2011), but I believe it is the combination of style and versatility. Athletic companies attracted the attention of many, even designers like Isabel Marant (who can forget her color blocked wedge sneakers), by reworking their footwear and hitting the mark with popular trends--think color/color blocking. Who knows if kicks are here to stay, but for now my feet thank you for a leveled out break.

...LETTERING IN FASHION...

Those who committed to the sport of fashion this year had the chance to receive the hallmark honor among competitors...ok, not that serious, but many revisited their alumni nostalgia to sport letterman jackets. Who knew that the coveted varsity emblem would make such an impressionable play in the fashion arena.

{all images Tommy Ton for style.com}

Onions Have Layers...

Hello, my name is Melina and I'm a layer fanatic. True Statement! Once the cooler weather settles in, I shriek with glee at the thought of layer after layer upon layer. To me it is a different type of dressing that shows so much of one's personality and creativity. I couldn't help but post this video...I love their How To's!

Homme Edition:: The Pocket Square...

After attending a few weddings and full time fancy events over the last couple of months I've realized that pocket squares need to be addressed. There are many ways to wear one that are all stylish in their own right.

{styloko.com}

But sometimes this can be a little too much! Don't get me wrong, I completely understand the need to add some flare to one's look. Instead of going for an origami fold or the puff pocket, try this...pick a fabric that adds the desired pizazz (bold colors, prints, patterns, you get where I'm going with this). Keep the pocket square classic with the flat fold and the square the same width as your pocket.

Think of it this way...wear your pocket square like you would drink your whiskey...simple, straight up, no frills!

Sneak Peek...

Today I'm working on a super exciting project involving these fuzzy, furry, cozy creatures. I can't wait to share more with you as it unfolds!

Lookie Lookie...

My desktop has a folder strictly dedicated to adept ensembles I come across while exploring the internet. This week, the folder was on overload as I kept swiping one image after another. I quickly picked a few of my faves that couldn't go without some recognition.

Look 1:: Jealousy quickly set in when I saw this look. Blondie is straight killing it. Combining two hot trends (neutral & neon) in perfect proportion and harmony. The length of her coat next to a micro mini--SMART! Love it, gotta have it!

Look 2:: I've had this image of Miroslava Duma on my computer forever and realized I have about five different views of it as well. Sophisticated cool that can translate from work to a night out, as all good outfits should be able to do.

Look 3:: It is hard to grasp the fact that designers are already showing collections for Pre-Fall 2012 and last week the weather was in the mid 60's--what is happening?! Never the less I was clicking through Jenni Kayne's collection and gasped at this full time fancy ensemble. This just might be the outfit I wear to ring in the new year! Unexpected and daring!

Bitch Stole My Look...

"You know how they say that sometimes pets and their owners start to look alike? Well, the same phenomenon definitely occurs among friends, at least in regards to the way they choose to dress. Spend enough time together and you're sure to start finding inspiration in each other's closets and- consciously or not-your looks will begin to morph."

~Meredith Melling Burke

I came across an article in Vogue called The Social Shopper and laughed at how true it is. I've noticed it more as of late, specifically when meeting up with my bestie Becky last week for lunch. I showed up to her office and both of us were rocking maxi skirts, boots, flowing tops, and oversized coats. We looked at each other and giggled as this is becoming a bit of a recurrence in our circle of friends as of late! Don't believe me in the truth of the statement?! Check photographer/blogger besties Tamu and Hanneli.

The proof is in the images below... Chinae & Becky this summer upstate--Chinae & me at a concert earlier this fall.

Homme Edition:: Socks...

It appears that genders are sharing trends these days. The first trend to decode--socks. I'm all for the ever so popular no socks with a bold, dramatic shoe but for even more spunk, kick up your shoe game with a fun accent.

1- No socks:: If you want to knock your socks off, show some leg...well ankle. Intentionally roll the hem of your pant shorter than usual, and a messy roll is always welcome.

2- Subtle socks:: Not ready for the bold and the beautiful, no worries. Opt for a sock in neutral tones with subtle prints/patterns. Great with pant hems rolled again, but earn a fashion gold star if you pair suit pants with NO break.

3- Heavy duty socks:: There is no hiding this chunky monkey. For the daring and adventurous tuck your slim/straight leg pants into the socks and scrunch accordingly. Here I would wade in the family of black, white, gray, camel--add texture and depth with socks that are heathered. Evident from the two gentlemen below, the look is cool with boots or sneakers.

Gift Guide:: Coco Canal...

Here's the last installment of the Gift Guide series...coming from yours truly!

1:: I love to snuggle up on the couch for a cozy night in with friends and this Pendelton blanket I've been eyeing for a while. It doesn't hurt that I love the pattern and color combo. {$218}

2:: I'm really into hats right now, and when Miu Miu sent wool caps down the runway I swooned. Casual chic at its best! {$395}

3:: In a perfect world I would make enough money to take a week's vacation to this castle in the sky--well, in a tree house in La Piantata, Italy, at least.

4:: Sex and the City never gets old to me. This book has an image of every ensemble worn by all four leading ladies and the designer's name/description for each piece in the look. I mean! {$20}

5:: If I didn't work in fashion I would be a chef. How adorable would a date be at The Brooklyn Kitchen for a couple's cooking class or for a pre-bachelorette party?! {prices vary on the type of class}

6:: Head over heels in love with these fringe boots by Isabel Marant. I'm a sucker for anything with fringe, and a wedge has proven to be my best friend for work and life walking the city. {$2,200}

7:: Last Christmas I signed up for an Instagram account and finally found something to do with all the images. Head over to Casetagram and you can make a case with images from your account--Genius! {$35}

8:: As I said before, I love to cook, and this mortar and pestle works for anything from guacamole to dressings and spice rubs. {$50}

9:: I'm always looking for a special touch when it comes to accessories. I would be over the moon to receive these collar clips in my stocking this year to add some pizazz to any button down. {$18}

10:: The holidays can't always be about me. I stumbled upon this wine company, Swanson Wine, and think the bottles are the cutest gift ever. A Congratulations, I'm sorry, Just Married...Thoughtful and adorable. {$25}

Gift Guide:: DeSmitten...

Today's gift guide is featured by the lovely and incredibly talented Christina of DeSmitten. Another lass that I've been friends with for most of my NYC life!

1. French Vogue's former editor, Carine Roitfeld came out with a book filled with her editorials, showcasing her eccentric styling. Irreverent ($62) is inspiration for every fashionista!

2. I recently broke our digital camera, so we are in dire need of a new one! The Nikon Coolpix S8100 ($280) is small and has a great zoom lens.

3. I've been obsessed with Hugo Guinness's sketches for years! I would love either print, Briefs or Eyeglasses ($275 each)... Simple prints that make great conversational pieces.

4. Recently I am craving a warm throw to have on the sofa. I love this navy graphic throw ($195) from Haus Interior. Made from combed cotton, it is great for all seasons!

5. One to kill every living thing in our apartment (except the cat!), I have faith in this hanging cacti terrarium ($160), from Score and Solder...it is artistic and hopefully kill-proof!

6. On the search for an everyday face wash that isn't too harsh for my sensitive skin, this Fresh Soy Face Cleanser ($15) sounds perfect!

7. Always keeping my eye open for the perfect vintage silk robe to wear while getting ready, this 1950's Kimono ($85) is perfect!

8. This cashmere scarf ($340) from A Peach Treaty, creates employment for skilled artisans working in socio-political strife around the world. It is also a great accessory with neutral colors and prints to go with any winter coat you wear this year!

9. Our apartment has electric heat=very expensive, so we keep the apartment at a cool 58 degrees all winter long. These adorably warm Rachel Comey Bunny Slippers ($290) may be expensive, but are indeed built to last. And they are made from humanely found baby alpaca fur! Fun fact- Alpaca is one of the most sustainable fibers in the world!

10. After using a very cheap set of pots and pans for the past few years, it is time for an upgrade! Le Creuset set in Black Onyx ($580) would be the ultimate in Christmas gifts, or at least one piece would be a good start!