2006, 10,000 villages


It's a shame that inspiration comes in spurts... not that I have been uninspired as of late, in fact I'd say far from it- the New Year has been a mix of over-inspiration combined with over-commitment which has left me a tad bit overwhelmed. Anyway I hope everyone is doing well and again thanks for the funny/ cool/ interesting e-mails. I should be back at least once a week now (hopefully more) with great sites and random commentary for you! As you begin 2006 I thought I would share some quick trend thoughts for you:

MAL (don't do this):
  1. Uggs. The name says it all. Please, can we have an Ugg free 2006? If you're into the cowboy boot thing I suppose that's cool, as long as you don't just switch them out for your Uggs (i.e. cowboy boots + 7-jeans + a juicy tee = disaster).
  2. Tucking your jeans into your boots. Okay, so this can be cute (with some exceptions, see 1. above). But for aesthetics-sake not with cheap, pink, imitation fur boots tucked into four-seasons ago wide leg jeans (shudder). If you want to pull this look off, wear skinny jeans (the 80s will never die) and appropriate boots (not Uggs).
  3. Gauchos. I mean, you can't possibly think you look good in these. Some simple advice? If a piece of the article of clothing is missing or cut in half and accompanied by a cute/ quirky name (e.g. caplets, shrugs, capris...) save a few rare exceptions (there are of course, exceptions to every rule), the look is just an industry created fad... a way to get you to spend money on something that already exists , chopped and screwed without the comedy of its musical counterpart.
BON (fun times for all):
  1. Wearing your head on your sleeve. I read about this last year and more and more I'm seeing people wearing their politics as well as practicing them. My little brother the trend setter? His revolutionary inspired Tee's which one garnered him awkward stares are now getting whispers of "where did he get that?" I'm a big fan of the Political Tee and blazer look for men.
  2. Direct Ethnic. I'm really feeling this look as socially conscious trendistas are going direct to the source for some truly inspired looks. Companies like Ten Thousand Villages have a worldwide network of volunteers and organizations that enable them to be in touch with and know the artisans and groups with whom they work. They seek out artisans who are particularly disadvantaged and without ready access to resources or assistance. In addition, their handmade jewelry, bags, and home decor are absolutely gorgeous (don't get this look twisted with Boho Chic and those jeweled shoes everyone was rocking for a bit. Though they're cute in the proper setting, ladies of Boston have to understand that jeweled slippers in 2-inches of snow looks ridiculous)!
  3. Moonstones. My mom was just telling how much she loves moonstones, and like instantly they're everywhere. These fun eye-catching gems are right in line with the counter-bling movement (more mesmerizing than blinding) and won't set you back tons of $.
Those are my thoughts for now. I always attempt to discuss fashion and style outside the trend continuum, but of course we can't ignore the trends because they comment on so much more than just fashion. For more on what's in and out for 2006, check out THE LIST (very fun) to see on which side of the divide you fall!
More independent designer sites coming, and as always, I really appreciate all the great suggestions!