Corey Lynn Halter - Women's Reinvention Thru Fashion

Corey Lynn Halter is a far cry from what we call an emerging designer, but I thought I'd share her Spring 2009 Collection anyway, only because I adore it! Nearly 13 years in the fashion industry and her designs have yet to waiver. Halter continuously brings home coveted awards for her numerous contributions and achievements as a brilliant fashion designer. Her designs are a breath of fresh air showcasing distinctive twists to the usual cropped jacket, separates with bursts of color, and charming accessories, etc.


Her Spring 2009 Collection will hit stores this January, so you won't have to wait too long! Check out the rest of her collection while you're at it! Meanwhile, there are tons of pieces from her Fall Collection that are now on sale -- online boutique and Revolve Clothing.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Ready Made Ensemble: Glammed Up for 2009

You'll need a knock-out ensemble to countdown to New Year's 2009! I've put together a Ready Made Ensemble with a few alternatives to help you look your best for this special event! There's a lady glamazon in each of you -- try a dress with sequins and a few accessories that highlight your outfit through color and sparkle.

Style Tips:

• Bold Colors - Accessorize with a few accent pieces. Black and Red are both very powerful statement colors and are the best accents your outfit can ask for.
• Sparkles - Swarovski is your best friend. Be it crystals that adorn your dress, accessories like earrings or a clutch, it's a great way to glam up.
• Sequins - When I think of New Year's, I always think of sequins. Sequins bring a dose of feminine chic to the party of 2009.

Here is a selection of affordable accessories:

• Kenneth Jay Lane Multi Flower Necklace available at ShopBop | $192.50.
• Lee Angel Jewelry Marcelle Necklace available at ShopBop | $72.60.
• Forever21 Glitter Clutch available at Forever21 | $16.80.
• Forever21 Faceted Ring available at Forever21 | $3.80.
• Felix Rey Allison Ikat Clutch available at ShopBop | $154.
  

Here is a selection of sequined dresses:

• Haute Hippie Sequin Tunic Dress in Graphite available at Revolve | $313.
• Aqua Sequined Dress available at Bloomingdale's | $98.
• Antik Batik Sigma Sequined Dress available at Net-a-Porter | $462.
• Alice + Olivia Sequined One Shoulder Dress available at ShopBop | $247.50.
  
  

Glammin' Up 2009 by studiopurpura

What are you wearing for the NYs celebration? Feel free to share your ensemble with us!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Weekly Editor's Top 10 - The Motorcycle Look, Jackets, etc.

Kate Moss ain't got nothin' on me, or you! She's the first person that successfully pulled off the moto-gear look without having to physically operate a motorcycle. So if she can do it, you can too.

If you're not ready to dial up your risk profile for 2009, you can at least play the part! The trend is in -- it's all about the moto jackets, outwear, sweaters, etc!

Tips for your Motorcycle "look":

• Faux Sure - Not everyone is made of Benjamin's -- finding the right faux-wear is ultra important, try Silence & Noise, available at Urban Outfitters for $128.
  
• Fit - Opt for a coat that hugs your figure to help achieve the ultimate moto chic look.
• Ruggedness - A coat with a few imperfections is a sign of uniqueness.
• Variety - If you've got a few too many jackets hanging in your closet, try a moto sweater or vest.
• Play on Patterns - Plaid, colored fabric liven and differentiate the motorcycle look.
  

Here are a few suggestions:

Silence & Noise Motorcycle Jacket - $128

Nicholas K Finch Sweater - $306
Eco-ga’nik Motorcycle Jacket - $202

Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent Motorcycle Sweater Jacket - $295


Splendid Winter Fleece Motorcycle Jacket - $169


Phamous Plaid Motorcycle Jacket - $165

Ben Sherman Goldsmith Cardigan - $111.30

Current/Elliott - $215
Express - $298

Gold Hawk Designs - $462

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

PYT - Pretty Young Thing by Arlene Guerra

Arlene Guerra's "cartoon chic" sense of style defines her accessories line, better known as PYT, Pretty Young Thing (est. 2005)! PYT has been featured in tons of press, namely, Harper's, WWD, Teen Vogue, etc. for her eccentric and timeless pieces. Her designs are never short of sparkling vintage rhinestones!

Images from {PYT 2008 Lookbook - The Chickens Are Here, How Fabulous}

Cute and Sweet..

Images from {PYT 2008 Lookbook - Girl Show}

Love the ultra feminine designs, elaborate floral and bow arrangements.

Available for purchase at OakNYC or these physical locations.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Dear Faithful Readers, Merry Christmas!

It could be the motley collection of lights that adorn city streets and Christmas trees, the long overdue family gatherings, or the abundance of gift giving and receiving among friends and family that make Christmas such a warm and pleasant holiday. To me, it's all of the above and more; it's a time when I reflect on all the unexpected blessings that have come my way.

The Studio Purpura Fashion Blog is a blessing that I’m most thankful for this year. It began as a place where I could share inspirational ideas through my love for fashion, but has quickly grown into a site that continuously supports talented emerging designers, provides valuable tips on styling, highlights best buys and more!

It is your continued encouragement and support that has helped me mature this blog. So, without further adieu, I'd like to sincerely thank each and every one of you for your kind suggestions and dedicated readership. Merry Christmas!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Daydream Nation - Dreams into Reality

Kay and Jing Wong, brother-sister duo, both graduates of esteemed London-based universities, Central Saint Martins and Royal College of Art Textile, have built a quirky and lovable fashion label called Daydream Nation. Entire collections have been created to mimic stories and fond memories.

Their creations are truly an indulgence. Find them at Pixiemarket.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

What I Want Now: Ksubi's Mac Jean

I've been a complete fan of Ksubi, a brilliantly innovative Australian apparel label, for years!

Luckily, this season is all about the distressed jean. Ksubi+Distressed Jean=What more did you want?

La Garconne put this pair on sale recently for only $170.40 - nearly 40% off!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Ready Made Ensemble: Country Bohemian Gal

"Movin' to the country gonna eat a lot of peaches.
I'm movin' to the country I'm gonna eat me a lot of peaches.."

Just in case you're curious, the song is written by Presidents of the USA and it's a song that I've been humming to for the last hour. Naturally, I thought it'd be fitting to create a ready made ensemble that embodies the essence of a country bohemian girl who's on the forefront of fashion.

Style Tips for the Country Gal:

• Leather Boots - Boots are a staple in putting together a "country" look. Opt for a pair of slouchy suede boots for a lasting look. Urban Outfitters has a great selection of suede boots at affordable prices.
• Suede - Experiment with a pair of suede boots or even a handbag. Suede Fringe is the "in" look for Winter '08-'09.
• Plaid Shirts - An effortless blend to help bring an overall casual feel to your outfit.

Style Tips for the Ultra Bohemian Gal:

• Flowing Tanks - Adds the essence of a free spirit by incorporating elements that flow.
• Embroidery, Flowers - Explore elements of femininity by choosing a piece that is delicately embroidered.
• Over-sized Knits - A sweater brings a wonderful finishing touch to the Bohemian winter wardrobe. Practicality and comfort should not come at a sacrifice. Try this sweater from Bluefly - Inhabit mid-heather grey cashmere open front long cardigan.
  
  
  
  Country Bohemian by studiopurpura
  

In this particular case, feel free to choose between the tank or the plaid shirt!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Kyyote - The Adventures of Amanda Loos

Amanda Loos, Founder of Kyyote, creates one-of-a-kind accessories from recycled materials, ranging from salvage worthy exotic woods to vintage plastics and fabric. Amanda's designs are distinct in nature -- modernistic and highly unusual.

Two trees are planted on your behalf by Trees for the Future, a non-profit organization, when a single purchase is made on Kyyote.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

What I Want Now: Penelope Peep Toes

I'm head over heels for these J.Crew Penelope Peep Toe shoes -- no pun intended!

They're fun, punchy and only $79.99!

It's just too bad they don't run in my size. So if there's any lucky lady out there with size 6 feet, go ahead and buy them, I won't blame you!

XOXO,

Studio Purpura

Cooperative Designs - Funkified Knitwear for All

If you're begging for something different, you'll want to know more about the masterminds behind Cooperative Designs, a London based knitwear label. Annalisa Dunn and Dorothee Hagemann, both graduates of London's most prestigious school for Fashion Design, Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design, have hit the ground running with their fresh ideas and trademark worthy looks! According to W Magazine, they've been handpicked by Henri Bendel New York -- where they will be selling their Spring 2009 Collection filled with bold colors, geometric shapes and gorgeous weaving.

Check out their Spring 2009 Collection!


XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Photo Credits: Cooperative Designs

Andrea Lieberman - Stylist Turned Designer Extraordinaire

While perusing through my monthly issue of the W Magazine, I fell upon an article written about Andrea Lieberman. Lieberman has spent the last decade helping stars define their public image through fashion. In doing so, Lieberman has grown her clientele to include the famous like Gwen Stefani, Nicole Richie, Jennifer Lopez and more.

According to WWD, Lieberman maintained that "she was always a designer first and only fell into styling." Lucky for us, Lieberman is now determined to launch her own new contemporary clothing line, ALC, the Andrea Lieberman Collection. Her inspiration for the new line is drawn from her two year stint in Africa, her own clients and various iconic figures. The collection will be sold at Barneys New York with retail price points, ranging from $150 to $1,295.

You can also look forward to her new jewelry collection made specially for Mouawad.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura
*Photo Credits: WWD

Weekly Editor's Top 10 - Keepsake Wedding Heels

Our focus this week is on finding the right pair heels to help a dearest Studio Purpura Blog reader, Ms. Bridezilla, step into matrimony.

Ms. Bridezilla's Question:

"I'm getting married in August! I just purchased a wedding gown and will need a pair of heels to go with it! I don't want the usual creme or satin white colored shoes. Instead, I'd love a pair that is appropriately colored, to match my vintage inspired dress. The shoes must have a 3.5 to 4 inch heel and MUST be affordable." - Ms. Bridezilla

Our Answer:

• Accentuation - Try a shoe with distinct accents like ribbons, jewels or applique's, but ensure that it does not compete with your wedding dress.
• Shoe Types - Your wedding day will be undoubtedly exhausting, so, make sure you choose a comfortable shoe. There are benefits to all shoe types, but ultimately the decision is yours. A slip-on sandal will allow for easy removal and stretching if you so happen to experience pain, etc.
  
• Sizing & Fit - Know areas of your feet, ie. bunions, size of feet, width of feet, sensitive areas, etc. This is to avoid purchasing a pair of shoes that may bring you unnecessary pain.
• Seasonal Shoes - The best way to nab a deal is to find shoes from seasons that are about to pass or have passed. There are tons of sites out there that offer brand new, never worn inventory, like Bluefly!
  

Keepsake Wedding Heels {Top to Bottom, Left to Right}: Christian Louboutin - $450.49; Kate Spade - $298; Twelfth St. by Cynthia Vincent Metallic Marilyn Crystal Pump - $297.50; Rene Caovilla - $581.39; Betsey Johnson - $164.95; Moschino Cheap and Chic Heart Sandal - $343; Kate Spade - $318; J.Crew - $265; Jimmy Choo - $385; Jimmy Choo - $652.80.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Whitney Port - A New Show, A New Collection

Model turned actress of reality MTV show, Whitney Port, of The Hills has just added another significant milestone to her resume by launching her own clothing line, Whitney Eve. Her collection closely mirrors her own personal sense of style -- a gentle and feminine perspective. Whitney has gained quite a bit of respect in the fashion industry for her ability to work with top tier designer's like Dianne von Furstenberg. Prices are a little steep, but I'm sure it'll be much worthwhile given the amount of creativity and design elements she incorporates in her line.

Select Whitney Eve pieces are currently available on Kitson.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Weekly Editor's Top 10 - Fall Winter '08/'09 Handbags

It doesn't make a difference whether you dress up or down, but rather how you choose to accessorize your overall ensemble. An intriguing statement handbag will effortlessly highlight your day-to-day outfits. Therefore, this week's editorial top 10 is a dedication to the best handbag finds for all of Fall/Winter '08/'09.

A few key trends to look out for this season:

• Opulence - Jewels, reminders of the high life add an abundance of necessary sparkle.
  
• The Messenger Bag - Utterly adorable, but utilitarian for girls on the move.
  
• The 80's - Reminiscing things that were fab about the 80's through tie-dye.
  
• Buckles, Zippers & Chains - A way to add rough and tough character.
  
• Distressed Leather - Worn, but not torn.
  
• Metallica - Gold, Silver metallic accents add a little glittering shine.
  
• PURPLE! - Purple has quickly become the new black.

Top 10 Handbag Picks {Top to Bottom, Left to Right}: Mogil Cobalt Blue Zipug Handbag - $90, Treesje Avalon Mini Purple Patent Leather - $560, Dunlin Pebbled Leather Handbag - $892, Balenciaga Giant City - $1,690, Lanvin Jeweled Clutch - TBD, Deepa Gurnani Viscose Clutch - $80, Mayle Romy Bag - $495, YSL Besace - $1,395, Chloe Gray Days - TBD, Gryson Woven Namesake Large Tote - $495.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Thakoon for Target

The news is official, Thakoon will be the next featured Target GO International Fashion Designer. His line will include a comprehensive sportswear collection due on Christmas Day! I love designers who adapt to tough economic times.



Stay tuned..!

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Net-A-Porter: Top Fall Sale Picks

If you've always had an eye for luxury goods, but haven't had the courage to take the plunge -- now's the time. Net-A-Porter recently launched their Fall sale with brands like CHLOÉ, Christian Louboutin, Stella McCartney, etc. at better than ever prices.

Our Net-A-Porter favorites: {top to bottom, left to right} Matthew Williamson Triple pendant necklace - Now $220, Marni Elasticated link bracelet - Now $220.50, DAY Birger et Mikkelsen Parel mini dress - Now $232.50, Chloé Asymmetric peep toe pumps - Now $299.40, Thurley Arrow trim tulip skirt - Now $212.50, Chloé Chain link shoulder bag - Now $1,902.50.

Look and feel like a million dollars.

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

6126 Leggings by Lindsay Lohan

According to a recent NYMag article, 6126 Leggings by Lindsay Lohan are flying off retailer shelves!

I can't quite justify shelling out $100 for a pair of leggings, but some eager trend-setters are! I'm more than happy with Silence & Noise leggings for a quarter of the price.

Hopefully her business model will outlast the demands of the fashion forward.

Love em' or Hate em'?

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

What I Want Now: Sid Vintage Jewelry

Sid Vintage is my current obsession when it pertains to jewelry. Sid creates breathtaking bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and rings with reclaimed materials; any precious metals and crystalline pieces qualify. They are truly one-of-a-kind..

COLD AS ICE NECKLACE - $231.00

WHITE ROOM WITH BLACK CURTAINS NECKLACE - $159.00

XOXO,
Studio Purpura

Weekly Editor's Top 10 - Fall/Winter 2008 Skirts

We love the idea of opting for a drop dead trend-setter skirt to help spice up your outfit this winter. Take a few risks and leave the usual somber pant ensemble at home! There are several types of stylistic alternatives for the skirt - choose the one that best reflects your personality!

Helpful tips when choosing your skirt:

• Form for the Figure - Choose the right skirt form for your body type. Women with long legs should opt for a lengthier, low-waist skirt to reflect a leaner silhouette. Women with shorter legs should choose a shorter, high waist mini skirt to help elongate their body.
• Excessive Elaboration - Sometimes too much can be overkill. Create the optimal look by maintaining a balance of the details.
• Skirt Pairings - Choose a skirt that fits with the rest of your closet. It's always wonderful to knab a statement piece, but part of a great find is how well it fits with the rest of the pieces that you own.

Styles to look out for when choosing your skirt:

• Modern Art/Bold Prints - A fad inspired originally by Josef Albers has now a huge following in the fashion industry. Find a skirt that plays with colors and shapes!
• Sequins & Such - Sequins are a wonderful way to glam up!
• Zipperage - Want the punk, rock & roll look? Zippers would be the answer.
• The Bubble - Bubble skirts have graced the runway this season and have become a cute addition to the skirt family.
• Minis - A mini-skirt was always a representation of defiance, but hey, "if you've got it, flaunt it!"
• Neutrals - Quietly understated elegance is a look to keep.
  

Topshop Printed Pencil Skirt - $70

orange by angela chen - $286

Mint Jodi Arnold Dixie Sequined Miniskirt - $275

acne flaunt print skirt - $458

Geren Ford Wool Miniskirt -$340

Elizabeth and James Corset Skirt -$245Kimchi Blue Floral High Waist Skirt - $58

Kimchi Blue Sequin Miniskirt - $98Silence & Noise Watercolor Skirt - $39.99
Topshop Rose Lantern Skirt - $65

XOXO,
Studio Purpura