>> Phillip Lim employed the use of some cleverly-placed panels and a little optical trickery for Fall 2012. The designer said he was interested in "using positive and negative space to evoke neo-noir heroines" and to that end, there was plenty of cool duality to be found here. Crisply tailored separates were kept to a strict palette of neutrals and jeweltones, high-contrast textures were used throughout, and a fog machine on the runway gave it all a graphic-novel effect.
The Descendants' Shailene Woodley first caught our attention showing off her red-carpet glamour; this time, she slips into Phillip Lim Pre-Fall at the Santa Barbara Film Festival, proving she's got the fashion chops to pull off a little leather dress. The actress's look is simple enough, but in a brilliant blue hue and cool leather finish, Shailene outfits an understated, fresh take on event dressing. We love how she keeps the whole look minimal, with a pair of suede strappy heels as the perfect finish. Looking for something similar? Shop our editors' picks to channel Shailene's ultrachic style.
We're taking a closer look at the standout details of the Pre-Fall 2012 collections. In this batch of fresh arm and statement footwear from Stella McCartney, Phillip Lim, and Jason Wu, we've picked the best of the bunch. Stella McCartney zeroes in on that London sophisticate with downtown cool; Jason Wu delivers a crop of ladylike bags and shoes — all with pretty pops of color and dainty detailing; and Phillip Lim crafts his minimalist cool with a brilliant palette (like the update on the Pashli in a cherry hue!). Inside, we're picking favorites and zeroing in on the pieces we love. Click on for a glimpse of the goodies to come.
Your casual cotton separates are no longer just for the day! In this episode of FabSugarTV's How To, we're going to show you how to mix your breezy basics with more sophisticated formal separates. Create effortlessly cool outfits this year by combining your casual tops with dressier pieces on bottom. This pared-back elegance is instantly chic! On Allison: Rebecca Taylor jacket, Equipment blouse from Bloomingdale's Santa Monica.
>> For Pre-Fall 2012, Phillip Lim drew on his lifelong fascination with neo-noir comics like Sin City, Superman, and V for Vendetta. While the inspiration was taken literally in the graphic KA-POW-emblazoned sweaters and clutches, it also moved in more subtle directions: "Everyone wants garments to be superheroes," Lim explained. "This 'fill in the blank' should save your day, your week, your year." Thus, the collection is full of "clothes that adapt to the lifestyle of the modern woman," in the designer's words, including reversible puffer jackets and blazers and skirts with zippers that adjust their proportions.
We're always looking for cool tops and jackets to pair with our basics, and our latest find comes in the way of embellished and contrast sleeve details. Spotted on the runways of Phillip Lim and Rag & Bone, this trend injects instant pop to any outfit. We also like how it adds a layered element to your look as well. We're on board, and if you are too, check out our top 10 picks — ranging from this pretty beaded tunic from Phillip Lim to the cutest leather tee from Elizabeth and James — in the slideshow now.
The Fall '11 runways presented limitless options for cold-weather layers; with Autumn in the air — and pumpkin spice lattes in hand — it's officially time to try the trends on for size. We want coats that speak to the season's best styles: parkas, luxe leather and shearling trim, bold brights, and new silhouettes in cozy capes and cocoons. To make your shopping trip a little easier, we're breaking it all down right here, right now. We pulled Fall's most coveted runway looks, and offer three shoppable versions at every price point. Some are essential, some lust-worthy — but that's for you to decide. Click through to see and shop our ultimate guide to finding your perfect Fall coat.
Photo courtesy of Greg Kessler
Can kites inspire your hair and makeup? Absolutely, if you take a cue from the 3.1 Phillip Lim Spring 2012 look. The designer was taken by the freedom and fragility of kites, and his beauty team played off references of wind, geometry, and chiffon. Read on to see how the look came together.
Backstage at 3.1 Phillip Lim, we caught up with designer, who shared his childhood inspiration and the story behind the sorbet color scheme for his Spring 2012 collection. Hear more from Phillip Lim about the versatile pieces for the everyday modern woman on right here.
Phillip Lim's Spring 2012 collection was built around the ideas of geometry, activewear, and kites. Yes, those wispy things we send up to the sky inspired Lim's soft, flowing clothes, many of which ruffled and moved with the slightest breeze. There was lots of silk, from side-slit trousers to delicate dresses with geometric ruffles. There were sporty pieces as well, including tops that looked like they had been cut from a thin rubber (more chic than it sounds), micro twill utility vests, and a bonded leather round collar jacket. The trousers will be a must have next season, done in soft colors like limoncello and lavender for ultimate breezy style. So, too, will be the metallic silver sandals that look so insanely good with Lim's pastel-hued offerings.
