First of all, I had my haircut! Yay! It was the first time in 7 months and boy is it a relief…! I didn't realise how bad it was until it was gone…4 inches off at the longest point, a lot more off on the layers!
Second of all…I'm almost smiling in the 3rd photo along! Yay! & thirdly, these suspenders were an utter nightmare, they were attached to the knickers and spent more time pulling my knickers down than they did holding my socks up!
This is what I wore to the CMC Los Angeles trend panel 'LA Confidential' a panel, part of Market Tuesday, discussing trends within the city. On the panel was the lovely Tasha Nita Adams of Blackburn & Sweetzer (now expanded to be Mondette), Alison Nieder, the executive editor of Apparel News and Erin Weinger of StyleSectionLA.
The panel began with each person discussing trends they've liked and disliked over the past year, and what they're predicting for the coming year. Each definitely noticed a welcome backlash to the severity of the 80's trends we saw a lot of last season. Tasha Nita is looking to nauticals, khaki, mixed prints, clogs and canvas in shoes. Erin is looking to a softer, folksy 70's vibe.
An interesting discussion was had over magazine editorials, and a lot of points were raised that I completely agree with. An editor shows a directional example, presenting a mood Alison explained. Alison also stated she notices a "double bounce" with high fashion editorial trends. The trend appears, it's worn by the fashionistas, the trend dies and them comes back a while later mass marketed and is a 'trend' again.
Tasha-Nita made a lot of sense, re: high fashion editorials and suggests taking "what makes sense to you" and interpreting it your own way. Something I feel I have always done and is perhaps second nature to me.
Celebrity fashion, an obvious part of Los Angeles fashion was discussed at length with Lady Gaga being brought up and described by Tash Nita as the "splashiest" on a more attainable level Carey Mulligan, Emma Watson and Alexa Chung were all mentioned. Reality TV was also mentioned creating an interesting discussion surrounding Jersey Shore and Kitsons use of "Gym, Tan, Kitson" in their recent window displays. The idea of people following Jersey Shore from a fashion perspective was incredibly amusing but Tasha Nita made a valid point "people like being ridiculous and dressing for irony" (I think some of our trend reports this week reflect that)
Influential areas for fashion in LA were discussed at length with Robertson being described as the new Robertson thanks to it's constant evolution. Restaurants and cafe's were discussed as being a draw to shopping areas, which is something I relate to 100%. Not driving in LA means I am more likely to visit an area with a neighborhood feel, where I can walk around with out having to hop on a bus from shop to restaurant to shop. I was disappointed to see East LA largely ignored in the discussion. Erin brought up the idea of the internet being the new neighborhood leading to a fascinating discussion about how businesses can use the internet to further their customer service and social experiences for their customers.
Tasha Nita also discussed the speed and accessibility the internet gives one to trends etc, which is very true. Catwalk photos and reports are now instant with the likes of Twitter, Facebook and live blogging.
All in all, it was interesting, I can't say I learnt anything new, but like Tasha Nita said, with the internet the way it is we all have access to this information, it just depends on whether you choose to look for it.
After the panel it was lovely to see Tasha Nita again, she's completely adorable, and I also met Erin, who was a doll. Bren (from So Much Pretty) and I headed to lunch at the Tiara Cafe after our meet and greet to discuss her upcoming project The Fashion Frontline which I encourage you all to check out. I shall be a challenger in this fantastic style challenge so y'all better vote for me when the time comes ; )
Outfit: Cardi: Cotton On, Dress: Topshop, Socks: Target, Shoes: Topshop.
By Kelsi Smith
Lucia says
tru dat… loved the post!
Kelsi Smith says
Thanks Lucia!
Bria says
Kelsi, I absolutely love this look on you! The middle picture is my favorite – so so cute :)