Trend Report: Japanese-Inspired Fashion

This 2015 a lot of designers looked to the East for inspiration, specifically Japan. The land of the rising sun definitely has no shortage of beautiful landscapes, unique art, and cultural heritage and history to draw from. Designer runways, from Alexander McQueen to Tibi, prominently featured design details directly drawn from Japanese culture and tradition.

I love how designers translated Japan’s heritage into wearable and fashion-forward pieces that every woman would love to wear. I, for one, would love to own something Japanese-inspired. The East meets West aesthetic is just so modern to me. Here is my take on Japanese style for Singaporean designer Silvia Teh. Click here for the full fashion spread that I previously blogged about. Here are some of my favorite looks from the shoot:

There are 4 styles that characterize this trend: origami detailing, tied/obi belts, kimono silhouettes, and japanese print motifs.

Silvia Teh’s design certainly reflect all 4 of those trends. I mean, how amazing is that wave print on the jacket? I also loved that navy kimono vest tied with an obi belt as well as the piece with an origami ribbon detail around the chest.

Here’s a closer on look on the 4 key pieces that comprise this hot trend:

Origami Details

Architectural and sculptural folding details are being integrated into runway looks this season. Instead of dressing up your clothes with jewelry, why not be progressive and opt for origami detailing that lends your look a futuristic yet sophisticated appeal? Margiela’s approach interprets origami via silhouettes that emulate origami’s stark folds and calculated proportions.

 Dasha Gauser // Image from DesignerCentral

Maison Margiela // Image from Vogue

Kimono Style

Probably the most wearable out of all the Japanese-inspired fashion trends, kimono styles easily translate from one season to another. Keep an eye out for exaggerated sleeves, billowy fabrics, and wraparound silhouettes. What’s great about kimono styles is that it’s flattering to most figures and can be styled for either casual outings or fancier events.

Herve Leger // Image from Lollipuff

Copyright © 2013 infinitas.
Article Photo for Denim Jeans Observer
http://www.denimjeansobserver.com
All brands, product names, corresponding products, supplementary materials, graphic or photographic images, licenses, registered trademarks, trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.

WHYRED // Image from Denim Jeans Observer

Copyright © 2013 infinitas.
Article Photo for Denim Jeans Observer
http://www.denimjeansobserver.com
All brands, product names, corresponding products, supplementary materials, graphic or photographic images, licenses, registered trademarks, trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.

GIG COUTURE // Image from Denim Jeans Observer

Tied/Obi Belt

To look more in the know, swap out your leather and metallic belts for fabric belts that you can easily tie around your waist. It adds an air of chic nonchalance to your look, and it feels so on trend. You can choose thicker or thinner bands depending on your figure. If you’re looking to make more of a bolder statement, look for the full-on wide obi belts.

Image from FashionMio

Japanese Print Motifs

Be on the lookout for vintage-looking Oriental flora print or ancient art inspired prints. It’s patterns like this that will make you stand out head and shoulders over the fashion pack. Consider this the more high fashion alternative to your typical prints.

Image from Trendspotter

Trend Report: The Jumpsuit

The runways have recently been filled with different incarnations of this hot 70s-inspired trend–the jumpsuit. Stylish celebs are fast fans of this trend too, both on and off the red carpet. This one-piece fashion wonder has been a fashion favorite for many years, not just for lovers of vintage clothing, but for lovers of great clothing that is versatile and chic.

Jumpsuits are an easy pick for an item that’ll improve your style in one shot. Plus it exudes such a unique mix of playfulness and glamour, that dresses or skirts just can’t duplicate.

 Image Source

(From L-R: Rihanna, Chrissy Teigen, Shailene Woodley)

Image Source

(From L-R: Catherine Malandrino, Pamella Roland, Nanette Lepore, Trina Turk)

The modernization of the 70s jumpsuit has been a long time coming, and it is a welcome style update. After all, what woman wouldn’t love a piece that you just slip into, and can go from day to night? Exactly. Jumpsuits are wardrobe work horses, it translates fashionably to various situations and it coordinates well with a wide array of accessories.

Here is a roundup of the Top 10 Jumpsuits that you should snag for yourself ASAP:

Barbara Casasola Viscose & Wool Blend Jumpsuit from LUISAVIAROMA

This jumpsuit from Barbara Casasola takes power dressing to a whole new level. The strong shoulders and impeccable tailoring make this a great wardrobe pick for that big meeting you’ve been preparing for.

Antonio Berardi Stretch Viscose Blend Cady Jumpsuit from LUISAVIAROMA

Needing a Lady Gaga inspired look? Then look no further than this Antonio Berardi Jumpsuit. The asymmetry of this piece is a statement in itself. The metallics and great construction sweeten the deal.

TIBI Color Block Silk Jumpsuit from The Outnet

The sherbet orange and coral hues in this TIBI Jumpsuit echo summer afternoons and breezy patio coffee dates. The relaxed fit and keyhole neck detail bring a new meaning to the term “casual glam.”

Thakoon Addition Checked Silk Jumpsuit from The Outnet

No need to accessorize when you’re sporting a striking piece like this checked jumpsuit from Thakoon Addition. Keep it simple, and just finish off the look with a pop of bright orange on your lips.

Halston Heritage One Shoulder Belted Crepe Jumpsuit from Net-a-Porter

This Halston Heritage Jumpsuit will withstand the test of time and passing trends for sure. The simple yet elegant belted silhouette can take you from dinner to a formal party.

Diane Von Furstenberg Shany Printed Silk Jumpsuit from Net-a-Porter

A jumpsuit with an earthy boho print, like this one from Diane Von Furstenberg, is always a good idea for summer dressing. Top off with delicate gold hoops and wooden bangles for a pool party ready look.

Stella McCartney Camelia Guipure Lace Jumpsuit from Net-a-Porter

Stella McCartney, the designer herself, is a huge fan of jumpsuits. This intricate lace jumpsuit is a testament of her love for the trend. Everything about this piece is perfection. It is something you purchase, and cherish forever. Deserving of a red carpet, this piece is a chic alternative to your standard ball gown.

Tamara Mellon Lace and Stretch Cotton Blend Jumpsuit from Net-a-Porter

This Tamara Mellon bares your decolletage in the chicest fashion. Sexy, but not at all trashy, the masculine cut of the jumpsuit is a great offset to the deep V neckline.

Emilio Pucci Printed Satin Jersey Jumpsuit from MyTheresa

Pucci prints are a vintage classic as well as a resort wear staple. Whether you’re on the French Riviera or a rooftop patio bar, this satin jumpsuit will never stop turning heads. Accessorize sparingly, and let the print do the talking.

Valentino Silk Jumpsuit from MyTheresa

All you need to complete this Valentino Silk Jumpsuit are a string of pearls and boyish brows like Audrey Hepburn’s. This jumpsuit also makes for a great summer wedding ensemble.

Which jumpsuit is your personal favorite? How will you style it? Let me know! Have a great week!

Trend Report: Luxury Sweatshirts

Cozy and comfy are words not typically associated with what’s trendy and fashionable. Fortunately for fashion lovers everywhere, those two words are now firmly in the fashion vocabulary due to the rise of luxury sweatshirts.

S/S 2014 (L-R): Marc Jacobs, Alexander Wang, and Christopher Kane

Image from: T Magazine

Gone are the days of wearing those boring, heather grey sweatshirts from your gym class. Say hello to sweatshirts done in luxe fabrics, accented with leather and fringe, and embellished with colorful crystals. This trend dominated the runways in New York, Milan, London, and Paris for Spring/Summer 2014, and by the looks of it, this trend is here to stay.

Here is my roundup of the 10 best sweatshirts for this season:

Kenzo Wool Twill & Techno Jersey Sweatshirt from LUISAVIAROMA

Logo sweatshirts are back this season. An arm-emblazoned Kenzo logo will show that you think outside the fashion box.

TNTees Sopo crystal-embellished cotton-jersey sweatshirt from The Outnet

The crystal embellished neckline of this sweatshirt from TNTees eliminates the need for accessorizing. Perfect for looking chic during those off-duty days.

Helmut Lang Snake-effect Leather Front Sweatshirt from MyTheresa

Can it get any more luxe and rich than snakeskin leather? Probably not. This piece is proof that sweatshirts can be sexy. Pair with your favorite  strappy stilettos for maximum sultry appeal.

Nil & Mon Lipstick Applique Sweatshirt from LUISAVIAROMA

Proclaim your love for lippies in this Nil & Mon sweatshirt. The playful applique design shows off your whimsical side.

Lanvin Wool Jersey Sweatshirt from LUISAVIAROMA

Fringe and sweatshirts are two the major trends for S/S 2014, and this Lanvin item combines the two perfectly. Modern elements like a structured bag or sleek ankle boots will be a great way to mix up the tribal feel of this sweater.

Tibi Houndstooth Cotton-blend and Ponte sweatshirt from The Outnet

Houndstooth will always be classic. Tibi gives it a twist with a vivid pop of electric blue and graphic black accents.

Givenchy Bambi Silk-Satin Sweatshirt from Net-a-Porter

Take a bit of your childhood cartoon memories with you in this Givenchy stunner. The silk-satin material gives that ladylike appeal.

By Malene Birger Synna Printed Satin-Jersey Sweatshirt from Net-a-Porter

Sweatshirts can be ultra feminine too, as seen in this floral By Malene Birger Sweatshirt. Best worn with a tea length skirt and midi heels.

Acne Studios Beta Geometric Sweatshirt from MyTheresa

Acne Studios are known for the modern aesthetic, and this geometric design certainly reflects that. For a refreshing look, wear with white jeans and plain white sneakers.

Isabel Marant Etoile Hammer Printed Jersey Sweatshirt from MyTheresa

Upgrade from casual T-shirts to styled and cool printed sweatshirts like this one from Isabel Marant. Wear with denim cutoffs and sandals, and you’re all set.

Which piece will you be snatching up? Let us know in the comments!