Chanel Resort 2011

So I'm totally behind on fashion week posts. There are so many fashion shows, I simply can't keep up. Anyways, Chanel has always been one of my favorite brands and the 2011 Resort collection makes me want to vacation on a secluded beach in Europe with drink in hand.

Paris Fashion Week: Chanel Spring 2010

I would have never thought to see Chanel presented in a barn setting, but Karl Lagerfeld can do anything and make it work. Lagerfeld channeled Marie Antoinette's farm house and presented his Spring 2010 collection with frilly feminine frocks, bright vibrant colors, and of course, the signature tweed pieces. The outfits were styled with clogs, jeweled headbands and drippy necklaces. My favorite outfit was the first picture below; it's not as fancy as the others, but I'm loving the pants, the jacket, and the chain belt.

The Magic of Couture

With so many looks that come down a runway for a single show, we immediately think "I love it" or "ick, no!" But rarely, do we get the chance to examine in detail the artistry and skill that goes into making a garment. That's why I was delighted when I came across this video that FabSugar posted on their website. Chanel has put together a clip of how one single outfit was created for the Chanel Haute Couture Fall '09 show (image above). Keep in mind that this is haute couture which refers to the creation of exclusive custom-fitted clothing that are usually made from high-quality, expensive fabric and sewn with extreme attention to detail and finish, often using exquisite techniques. I can only imagine how many countless hours it takes to perfect one garment, let alone a whole collection's worth for a fashion show! Now you all know why one couture dress can cost tens and thousands of dollars. Be prepared to be in awe of the rare behind-the-scenes footage!

Fall 2009 Paris Haute Couture Fashion Week: Chanel

What I would give to able to sit in the Chanel Haute Couture Fashion show! Chanel is simply the best and never ever disappoints. The beading/sequins, draping, ruffles, pleats, and lace detailing were exquisite. From the lace leggings to the trains attached to the garments, the collection had a somewhat 80s vibe; however it steered away from tacky. I have read a couple fashion articles that mention that as a whole, the black dresses were underwhelming. However, I beg to differ. As the late Coco Chanel put it best: "Simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance." Below is a small clip of the show. I am still hunting for the full video, but this shall do for now...enjoy!

What I Want Now: Handbags Galore!

Some people prefer brand named clothing, others shoes, but me--I have always had a love affair with handbags. I have told my mom, grandma, and aunt (who, combined, have so many handbags, they can open up a boutique) to save all their bags so that one day, I can inherit them and build a closet and line them up alphabetically by brand. I know it may sound a bit neurotic, but I really enjoy beautiful things, and to have a collection is a personal fashion dream of mine. Below, I have comprised a list of the top 5 bags that I have been eyeing for quite some time. Some are new this season, while others are old styles or classics. Perhaps one day, I will be able to afford them! A girl can only dream.

Valentino "Rossier" Medium Tote
$1,950


Marc Jacobs "Stam" Swarovski Shoulder Bag
$2,350


Chloe "Paddington" Satchel
$1,720


Balenciaga "Giant City" Bag
$1,695


Chanel "Large Flap" Bag
$2,095

Paris Fashion Week Fall 2009: Chanel

The Chanel Fall 2009 show stuck to its signature look of tweed and the use of black and white. However, the collection added pops of bright colors such as green and pink, which made the collection fresh. Lagerfeld emphasized the neckline with funnel collars, turtlenecks, and lots of ruffles. The sleeves were also highlighted with ruffle adornments and slight bell sleeves. Of course my favorite looks of the collection were the tweed suits, specifically the black and white (see first image below) with hints of green in the pockets and buttons, and topped with a green tweed hat. It screams Chanel, but the addition of the green makes it look fun and modern. To view the Chanel collection, click here.

[Image Source: Getty Images]