Runway to Reality: S/S 2008 Nina Ricci

Photo Credit: Style.com

For Spring 2008, the Ricci girl was the perfect example of undone chic. Olivier Theyskens used skillful draping and combined contrasting textures to create beautiful yet nonchalant looks.

Runway Highlights

The ensembles ranged from very casual, I-just-threw-this-on outfits, to gorgeous gowns that looked slightly disheveled from a night of partying. Even the models' hair was done in tousled waves to suit the undone chic style. Although the fabrics and textures were diverse, the color palette was kept neutral (like in many other collections this season). Grays and metallics were complemented with warmer earth tones and some dusty blues. Accessories included long chains draped around the neck, skinny feather boas in neutral colors, and some pretty fabulous heels.

Reality Check

Take a cue from the Ricci style to master the "undone chic" look without looking frumpy:

• Pick clothes that are asymmetrical and draped in interesting ways, but avoid ones that are just loose and shapeless


• Mix up the textures: try pairing elegant materials, like chiffons, satins, and metallics, with rougher fabrics and knits


• "Undone" should still be fabulous, so don't skimp on the accessories, especially when it comes to the shoes (sky-high heels preferred, of course)

Runway to Reality: S/S 2008 Badgley Mischka

Photos courtesy of Style.com

Other than a handful of looks that I found really striking, I would have to say that Badgley Mischka's Spring 2008 collection was unremarkable. Honestly, I found most of their looks, well, boring. But let's focus on the positives, shall we? My top 3 favorite looks are in no way representative of the collection as a whole, and, coincidentally, they all have ombré color on white...

Runway Highlights

My favorite look, of all things, is the one-piece swimsuit pictured above. A white swimsuit can be pretty unforgiving, but the graduated color around the waist has a great slimming effect. Not to mention, the monochromatic look is très chic. I also like the overall shape of this piece: the high neckline and straps show off the shoulders, and the sides are subtly cut-out. Best of all, there is a sash that ties around the waist and drips down the back (it's hard to tell in this picture). Now that is a couture swimsuit!

Some of the evening gowns were also really beautiful. The short dress, tinged with a shock of blue, is so evocative of summer and tropical seas... The shape is simple enough, but the top layer of fabric is free to float about as the body moves, for a lovely effect.

Finally, the long goddess dress is all elegant, flowing drapes and soft fabric. There are tiny black stripes at the bottom of the dress (they look gray from afar) that fade towards the top of the gown for a uniquely beautiful look.

Reality Check

Here are some real-life ideas:

- Look for swimsuits with a darker midsection for a slimming effect (I know I will be on the lookout for anything that looks remotely like the swimsuit shown here)

- If you're hesitant to wear all white for whatever reason, a dress that has a graduated color can be a choice number

Runway to Reality: S/S 2008 Alexander McQueen

Photo Credit: Style.com

For Spring/Summer 2008, Alexander McQueen showed a collection that was bold yet polished, offsetting warm rainbow colors against cool neutrals. The looks were quite diverse: some seemed out of place (like a pair of black and pink dresses with fencing masks and shoulderpads), but most were beautiful and on the mark. As always, McQueen remains in my list of favorite designers...

Runway Highlights

The stars of this show, in my opinion, were the dazzling and ethereal "bird of paradise" gowns. The patterns, suggestive of feathers or butterfly wings, were beautifully organic while staying away from too-obvious floral designs. The avian reference was, of course, in honor of the late Isabella Blow, the flamboyant fashionista who discovered McQueen and helped to launch his career.

Also of note were the wearable tailored looks that McQueen does so well. Fitted ensembles in crisp neutrals were highlighted by touches of hot pinks and reds, making them very appropriate for spring. Some of the outfits also showed hints of lace in leggings, socks, or camisoles peeking out for a demure yet elegant look. The fabulous, statement-making headpieces, courtesy of Philip Treacy, were also an homage to Ms. Blow.

Reality Check

Sometimes, I wish I could wear all McQueen, every day, all day. But when that's not an option, consider this:

- Organic patterns don't have to be floral to be stunning!

- Liven up solid gray or black looks with accessories tinged in hot pink or red

- A touch of lace goes a long way to dress up a tailored outfit in a demure and elegant way

- Rock a bold, tropical color palette, especially for eveningwear, but don't overdo it -- keep the shapes simple and favor light, flowing fabrics like chiffon