Americana Muse

Looking very much like a 90s supermodel (and not simply because of the comparisons to Linda Evangelista), Arizona Muse and her adorable son Nikko feature in February's US Vogue in this spread lensed by, you guessed it, Peter Lindbergh. What gets me most about this editorial (and no, it isn't her brows or that captivating stare), is Tonne Goodman's styling. While many of the looks are from American designers such as Calvin Klein and Ralph Lauren, who were at the tops of their (and fashion's) game during the 90s, looks from an international cast that include Ferragamo and Hermés are represented in a way that is undeniably American. You can't help but cast your mind back to the American Dream, with its blue and white and red, its free-spirited wholesomeness so clearly captured in the Tommy by Tommy Hilfiger TV 'commercials' back in the day. Speaking of dreams, Muse, with her skyrocketing ascent towards the supermodel peak, is surely living one of her own. A favourite of Anna Wintour's, it won't be long before she stirs from her American dream, and when she does, it won't be for less than $10,000 a day. 

via: FGR

Socks and sweaters

Socks and sweaters. There's something about this combination that is just so... cosy. A homespun twist on Julia Roberts' Pretty Woman days when she donned Richard Gere's white shirt... and only his white shirt.  Despite being in the midst of a Sydney summer, there's something about this shot that makes me want ditch the light cotton tees for an oversized woollen sweater and snuggle up. With knitted socks to match. It's an easy kind of comfort that doesn't even have much to do with fashion (unless the sweater and socks in question are Michael Kors of course). The combination conjures up primary school memories of sitting round a creekbed campfire, with molten marshmallows oozing out of their slightly blackened shell, hanging off a whittled down gumtree twig before being gobbled up with greed. Those were the days where my camping attire consisted of grandma's hand-knitted jumpers, in an array of creams, blues and pinks, dad's Explorer socks and not much more.

Those are the best images, the ones that gently nudge you into recalling a time or memory of which you will be forever fond, allowing you to revel in its glory once more. And this one by Mario Sorrenti for the February issue of Vogue Paris does just that. Styled by new editrix Emmanuelle Alt, we get a quick glimpse of Natasha Poly and her wispy fringe in the stunning editorial simply called "Natasha Poly" - further proof that simplicity is most definitely where it's at. Au naturale, as my mum likes to say. Here's a collection of sweaters I'll be kicking around in (or wishing I was) come winter. 

Rag & Bone The Chunky Pullover sweater 

Rag & Bone Hayle mohair-blend cropped sweater

Celine ribbed sweaterdress 

Acne Lauren cashmere pullover

Vince cable-knit wool-blend sweater

via: tFS

Rubber Souls

I couldn't resist posting these pictures I found of a Gisele Bünchen spread (and cover too, natch) for the December issue of Vogue Italia. Snapped by Steven Miesel, the editorial features the model (or more accurately, the genetically insane freak of nature) swathed in little more than layers of latex. I love how the photos capture something other than the sexy and sultry side she usually gives off; her expressions combine humour and high fashion to a (rubber) tee. 

There's something about this last expression that is just so, so good. It's all in the eyebrows. It reminds me of a boy I used to be quite fond of (who will luckily never read this) who used to do the same thing when looking in the mirror to fix his hair in the morning. One of my favourite expressions in the world, and Gisele captures it perfectly. 




via tFS

Miss Magda

This backstage picture completely captivates me. I'm not sure what it is, but there's something about the way she's sitting there, waiting, completely at ease in her ballerina tutu, rocking gently on her heels; exuding calm before the storm, that is nothing short of serene. So excited that one of my high fashion favourites, Magdalena Frackowiak, did the Victoria's Secret show this year. I know I've talked about the crossover between commercial and high fashion re: VS before (read: here) but it seems the lines continually keep on blurring between the two. Whatever the view, I think Magda made the transition perfectly. She's one of those models whose versatility never ceases to surprise; one day she's all chiseled cheekbones and solemn stares - the epitome of an editorial model - the next she's giggling down the VS runway, dimples and wings in tow. A quick scan of the forums over Magda's thread at tFS, and many agree that she was definitely the standout of the show. She had the perfect combination of cheeky winks, waves and air-kisses, without being over the top or too serious- something I'm sure is much harder than it seems.  

Giampaolo Sgura for Vogue Korea

This spread by Cameron Krone for Viva! Moda is beyond amazing. With the inspiration being the 90's supermodel series by Peter Lindberg, Magda appeared alongside Anna Jagodzinska, Monika 'Jac' Jagaciak, Kasia Struss and Anja Rubik in a spread dedicated to the top five Polish models. I love the simplicity of the styling - all matching Versus silhouettes and strappy sandals - allowing the beautiful photography to really make the pictures a celebration of the wearers, which is really what fashion is all about.  

Couture by Night

I wasn't going to blog today, I swear. I was going to be a good girl and finish all my assignments. But then, just as I was almost done with my quick fix of editorial for the day, I found this. I've always said to myself that someday I would start an inspiration wall of sorts, someplace to hang all the stories, snapshots, styles and supers that have been saved and stored over the years, but have never found that one really great image to propel me to do so. Until now. Natasha Poly and Baptiste Giabiconi, lensed by Karl Lagerfeld (who else?) for Numéro #116. Featured in the editorial Couture by Night, I love every single element of this shot.

I love the two street lamps in the background; the way they cast a mellow shadow over the provincial apartments whilst providing a scene for these wandering lovers of the night. I love the ease with which Baptiste is holding Natasha, like she is nothing more than her own dainty champagne flute. I love the black and white of the photography, and how it is deliberately mirrored through their matching couture. I love the way Natasha's toes are pointed down, like a ballerina; aware but effortless in her positioning at all times. I love his strong, and her soft - but both smouldering - stares. I love it, I love it all.  

via FGR

New World

I wish I could read Russian. As it is, I can't, so I'll have to settle for being able to read fashion. A quick scan of the blogosphere however, reveals the title of this editorial as "New World." I couldn't think of anything more suitable given this is the last issue of Russian Vogue under founding editor, Aliona Doletskaya. Although at the time of publication, new EIC Victoria Davydova had already taken up post, due to the time lag in magazine-land, we won't see Davydova's work until the October issue. And judging by this issue, the pressure's certainly on. Not that it wasn't before. Since its inception just 12 years ago, Vogue Russia has been viewed as one of the most influential editions of Vogue- right up there with Editrix Roitfeld's Paris edition. 

As well as the title's nod to the new editorship, it heralds September's change of season, where summer turns over a new leaf (pardon the pun) and fades to fall. At least in the northern hemisphere, where all the fall/winter collections are beginning to hit stores. It picks up on the notion that women are on the collective cusp of bidding farewell to the old and eagerly embracing the new. Don't be fooled that this rejection of the outdated in favour of on-trend pieces is all part of a vicious cycle that will begin again come next season. Quite the opposite. In fact, it is this cycle of chasing what is "new" and "on-trend" which appears to be dwindling, as investment dressing has never been more appropriate; or popular. Trend-forecasting will never disappear completely. There will always be the latest heel (block, kitten, wedge) or skirt (full, maxi, body-conscious) or even handbag (oversized, across-the-body, box) but the fashion tide seems to be turning towards something more... sustainable. Towards something that can offer both style and longevity. Towards something that can offer what trends cannot: timelessness.

The appropriately named "New World" story, shot by Sharif Hamza features an all-star cast including Alessandra Ambrosio, Coco Rocha, Ana Beatriz Barros and Dree Hemingway. Under the styling genius of Simon Robbins, the story features designs by Chloé, Michael Kors, Max Mara, Burberry, Calvin Klein and Céline, to name a few. All these designers have released collections of which many have had that certain timeless quality of late. Think back to all of the so-called trends that this season has been labelled as sporting. Coats? Fur? Neutral-hues? Minimalism? Save for the current penchant for all things animal print (which I cannot see disappearing in a hurry) the current pared-back aesthetic can apply season after season and then serve as the base for many a would-be trend afterwards. And this is the new world into which fashion, and Vogue Russia, is emerging into.

Finally, for those who are still confused as to why fashion editorials, or spreads, are referred to as 'stories', what better example than this. No matter what language, if any, the story is told, if it is exectuted well, with stylists, photographers, models and all those behind-the-scenes collaborating in a way as cohesive as this- the message is loud and clear. Despite the fact that the words, to most of us, are much less discernable. No trend is on-trend. And that, my friends, is the moral of this story. New world indeed.

via: FGR

First Lady of Vogue

All this election-talk is doing my head in. And, no, I'm not talking about Anna Wintour, despite the title possibly being a fraction misleading. Actually, not really, if you consider the number of Vogue jobs this recruit has nabbed in the past few weeks. For it's our very own Miranda Kerr, cover girl of the September issue of Spanish Vogue, with her very first Vogue cover (as mentioned here.) Along with the cover, shot by Tom Munro, she features in a spread with a slight throwback to the models of the 90s; legs included.

She also featured in...wait for it; 3 editorials for US Vogue this month, 2 shot by Vogue's photographer of choice, Steven Meisel and the other by Peter Lindbergh. Sitting alongside other top models including Lara Stone, Doutzen Kroes, Alessandra Ambrosio and Adriana Lima, she isn't about to relinquish her number 15 spot on MDC's list anytime soon. Quite the contrary, actually. She is fast becoming a favourite of both Meisel (who previously shot her in Prada's fall campaign) and Vogue's EIC herself, so it's just a matter of time before she lands a cover. Still not convinced of her staying power? Look out for next month's issue of Vogue Italia- she'll be on the cover. 

via: TFS and FGR

I Die (for fashion)

Taking Rachel Zoe's expression "I Die" literally, US Harper's Bazaar have raised the bar with this clever little spread featuring the celebrity stylist for their latest issue. Zoe, snapped by Douglas Friedman, is captured alongside some of America's top designers, going in for the kill. Literally. So many metaphors and innuendos lurking under the surface of this shoot. It reminds me of the start of The September Issue where Anna Wintour sums up the misconceptions associated with the fashion industry and those who work within it brilliantly: "There is something about fashion that can make people very nervous." With that closing statement she levels a steely, unperturbed stare straight down the barrel of the camera, and we know. Interview over. 

Some may say Anna Wintour intimidates people, but I beg to differ. Fashion intimidates people. For some, The September Issue was nothing more than a sneak peek into the exclusivity and luxury that normally lies just beyond the realms of reality. However, as a documentary into the inner workings of the fashion industry, I think it was much, much more than just a 'glimpse'. If you watch it multiple times (ahem, guilty) what first appears to be a standoffish, haughty or higher-than-thou attitude is simply an uncanny ability to edit her thoughts with just the right amount of candour to convey what needs to be said, and nothing more. "Just because you like to put on a beautiful Carolina Herrera dress... or a pair of J Brand blue jeans instead of something basic from K-Mart... doesn't mean that you're a dumb person." 

Some people in this world think (and how wrongly so) that by caring about how you look and the way you dress, means that you care less about what is deemed to be of real importance, such as economics, or politics, or having a "real" career. So when people ask me what it is I love about fashion, what I can never seem to explain to them in the way I would like, in between my mutterings of Anna Wintour (who?) and their confused stares, is the intelligence of it all. The sheer wit and intellect that is required to conjure up such imagery and innuendo makes it one of the most challenging and (I'm willing to bet) rewarding industries to be involved in. The bravery and courage it takes to divert from the more traditional and socially acceptable career paths to pursue something you truly love is nothing short of inspirational. And I'm not just talking about fashion. Musicians, artists, sculptors, couturiers, writers, glass-blowers... for all those who have made a name for themselves under these titles, there are a million more busting their guts for nothing more than the love of the game. Determination to forge a way for oneself despite the throwbacks, despite the challenges and ridicule and years of giving it your all, is a world away from dumb. Working tirelessly to forge a way for yourself so that maybe one day, you can wake up and think 'I love my job' is possibly one of the smartest things I can think of. All this from a fashion editorial that reminded me of a documentary I once watched. It really is true what they say; a picture says a thousand words.  

via: TFS

Nippon Natasha

Natasha Poly for the September issue of Vogue Nippon. Styled by George Cortina, the spread features the likes of Givenchy, Pucci, Chloé and of course, (for who doen't recognise that jacket?) Balmain. Oh, and I nearly forgot, the whole thing (scenic location included) was caputured by the Kaiser's cam. Not sure if I am loving the grainy photog, but hey, any excuse for more NP pictures right? What did I tell you about Mr. Lagerfeld's newfound love for Natasha?! Find her on the cover here.

via: TFS

Mrs. Bloom shoots Vogue... and Numéro, Again

In brocade Balmain for Vogue Spain

Finally!! I know this is probably my tenth post on Miranda this month, but it can't be helped- this girl is on fire. Australia's best-known model has finally landed the holy grail of magazine covers; Vogue. She took a break out of her honeymoon (bless her) to head back to LA's Milk Studios for an editorial for Vogue Spain, and it can now be confirmed, will be appearing on the September cover. This confirmation comes via the shoot's hair stylist, Ben Skervin, who took to Twitter (where else in this social media obsessed day and age?!) announcing "Miranda Kerr sept Spanish Vogue cover and story!!!!" Miranda herself even tweeted yesterday that she "had to come back to LA for a one-day shoot with Vogue." It's not the first time she's worked for the mag, having featured in spreads for American Vogue and Vogue Russia, but it will be the first time she's landed a cover. Yay!

Just when you thought it couldn't get any bigger or better for the rapidly rising star, apparently, it can. After my post on her new campaign for Jil Sander's Fall 2010 collection, she was snapped by Sebastian Kim in a consecutive religious-themed spread (sporting a crown of thorns, no less) for Numéro #115, after appearing in a nun-inspired get up in issue #114 by Greg Kadel. (I'm willing to bet she'll snag a Numéro cover before the year is out.) This Vogue cover rounds out what has been a huge week for our favourite model export (sorry Abbey Lee, we still love you), which also included a secret wedding and a confirmed pregnancy.  All these high fashion gigs are responsible for the fact she has now crept up to number 15 on models.com's list of top 50. This ranking places her ahead of big high fashion names such as Hanne Gaby Odiele, Magdalena Frackowiak, Karmen Pedaru, Anna Selezneva, Sigrid Agren and Caroline Trentini. Where's her Vogue Australia cover I hear you ask? Hmm...

Miranda's latest editorial for French mag Numéro #115, shot by Sebastian Kim, styled by Charles Varenne

photos via The Fashion Spot