Inspired by Monique Lhuillier Spring 2011

As I mentioned in my last blog, Monique Lhuiller's Spring 2011 line really caught my attention. I'm so excited that feminine silhouettes are back! Lhuillier loves women and it shows, as all of her dresses truly flatter the female shape. Her know-how of the female form, coupled with a tendency towards skin flattering tones and gorgeous fabrics, like lace and organza, help make Lhuillier's Spring 2010 one to remember. Since her gowns aren't very practical for my current lifestyle and are definitely not within my price point, I searched for wallet friendly dresses with a similar feel. Fortunately, my favorite UK retailer, ASOS, has some great inspired by options. Though not identical, many of the dresses capture the designer's Garden of Eden concept.

Although it isn't green, the delicate lace and peekaboo sweetheart neckline of this ASOS frock, are reminiscent of Lhuillier's jade stunner.

The ASOS sheath shares the ruby shade, classic tailoring, and ruffle detail of Lhuillier's dress, all for less than $80!

Seeking Lhuillier's flirty ruffles? This strapless ASOS dress also comes in navy, just add a ribbon belt!

 Lhuillier's knack for making gorgeous white dresses isn't  surprising given the designers gorgeous wedding gown collection. All this ASOS dress needs is a lace shrug and gold skinny belt.

Since a feather cape is a bit out there for regular life, why not try a cute feather clutch instead?

I'm a girly girl, so watercolors and pastels are never far out of reach. Add a waist cinching ribbon belt in a corresponding hue, and it's no surprise both Lhuillier's dress and this ASOS option caught my eye.

Love the emerald tone and asymmetric neckline of this colorblock dress, not to mention the price tag under $200.

All that glimmers IS gold, especially when the dress also has a sexy figure flattering silhouette.

Could you see yourself wearing any of these dresses? What was your favorite Fashion Week collection?

Green with Gown Envy

Very shortly I'll be writing another post about Monique Lhuillier's Spring 2011 line, but for the time being I'd like to focus on just one of her many incredible gowns. Although the famed wedding dress designer named The Garden of Eden as the inspiration for her latest line, one of her gowns actually reminds me of one of my all-time favorite cinematic costumes. Keira Knightly's emerald dress in Atonement is almost as famous as the film itself, and I'd argue that no one has ever looked more ravishing in the color green than Ms. Knightly did. Although the lines and cuts of the dresses are quite different, their hue and impact both grab me in a similar way. Plus, it's just so rare that we see a truly beautiful green dress.

Keira Knightly, stunning as Cecilia Tallis in Atonement, wears a gown as symbolic to the storyline as it is gorgeous to look at.

A model at Monique Lhuillier's 2011 Spring show struts down the runway in an exquisitely rouched emerald gown. Is it just me or do her eyes even resemble Keira's?

Green is such a show stopper, wouldn't you agree? I'd love to see more celebs don it on the red carpet. For more information about the dress from Atonement, I recommend reading this comprehensive entry on Sunday Couture's page.

5 Finds Under $50

Does my wish list ever end? Nope! Unfortunately, the need for unexpected car repairs may put such frivolity on hold -at least temporarily. Oh well, at least I still have window shopping :) Here are my 5 finds under $50.

Purple was all over the runways during Fashion Week, and I can definitely see myself sporting this violet Lulus dress with a cardigan, textured tights and my go to T-strap maryjanes.

 

I can't get enough of the elongating effects of nude pumps and love the quirky details on these, not to mention the shockingly affordable price tag.

 Monique Lhullier's Spring 2011 line makes me yearn for sheer decolletage. This Fred Flare blouse fits the bill perfectly.

So much to love about this cardigan -the black/white color scheme, lace, and polka dots! I picture myself pairing it with a smart black pencil skirt and matching peep toe pumps.

I've practically worn my oversized Michael Kors watch to death. For a fresh spin on the look, I'd love to add this rose gold ASOS watch to the rotation. It doesn't hurt that its the same hue as Victoria Beckham's new Rolex -which incidentally inspired the Brian Atwood pumps used in her latest collection.

Mustard? Don't let's be silly.

Sorry folks, I couldn't resist an opportunity to quote from Alice in Wonderland. In all seriousness, mustard's star has been on the rise since Michelle Williams took our breaths away at the 2006 Oscars. Since then, the bold and surprisingly flattering color has held its own both on the red carpet and on the streets. Since yellow was one of my favorite go to colors this summer, it's no surprise I'll be turning to mustard to keep that glow through the fall.

My first foray into mustard... 

Sorry for the poor photo quality, I'm clearly mirror/lighting challenged!
(Top-Charlotte Russe, Necklace- Forever 21, Skirt- Ebay)

The Celebrity Muses 

 Michelle Williams in Vera Wang, still one of my all time favorite red carpet looks.

Diane Kruger can do absolutely no sartorial wrong in my eyes, and neither can Jason Wu. His marigold hued gown really pops against Diane's fair skin and red lips.

Emmy Rossum struts her stuff in a cinched marigold number.

Melissa George is a golden goddess on the red carpet...

and equally lovely sporting the shade at Fashion Week.

Eva Mendes is flawless in this strapless Cynthia Vincent dress -the perfect complement to her bronzed skin. 

Eva Longoria elongates her petite frame with this sleek sunny dress.

If you're like me and have few occasions to wear an amazing gown, fear not. I went on a hunt for equally gorgeous, yet far more versatile mustard ensembles. I hope these great looks inspire you as much as they've inspired me!

Street Wear 

Isn't she gorgeous? My friend Tori has fantastic personal style. I adore the unexpected pairing of a satin mustard blouse with a lovely green high waist skirt. Not only does she do style better than most, she even has her own tea shop and  brand! If you live in the Bay Area, I highly recommend popping into Satori  for a cup!

How adorable is fellow blogger Natasha in this vintage frock? I'd wear this in a heartbeat!

Another look I would love to duplicate. Krystal calls it, "Ketchup and Mustard." I call it perfection.

It's hard to believe thepetiteblogger's luck in finding this vintage dress in her mom's closet. The military style of the dress is spot on this season, as are the gold and black accessories she pairs it with.

Unfortunately, I can't remember where I found these lovely ladies, but check out the mustard shift dress on the left. Red lips, lace tights and a vintage hat make for one stand out party look.

Neutral accessories are the perfect frame for Sydne's Forever 21 find.

Don't you love how Debye of Modestly Styled. Modestly Me. contrasted a golden cardi with a vibrant lilac tweed skirt?

She's done it again. Michelle Williams looks positively demure in a spicy mustard frock at the Venice Film Festival.

So much fresher than "just another black pea coat." Lauren Conrad, can I please live in your closet for just one day?

The same goes for you Taylor!(In my mind, we're on a first name basis)

Rachel Bilson, another style fave, puts a slightly tougher twist on daytime mustard, with a leather jacket, ray bans and opaque tights.

 Sarah M. gives a classic look major pop with a mustard cardigan (and the sassy poses don't hurt). 

Chictopia's Lulu has a fresh easygoing take on the yellow hue.

If you're still not fully convinced that mustard is for you, why not ease into the look with one of these great accessory ideas? 

I love me some Miss Dior Cherie, and adore the sunny shades in their ad campaigns!

I'm still beyond bummed that I didn't score a pair of Cynthia Vincent for Target wedges before they sold out, but I can't hold that against the cutie behind I am Style-ish.

When does Emily of Cupcakes and Cashmere not look incredible? I love how the pink head scarf and bold shoes transform this outfit into a look.

If you love shopping at Anthropologie, I highly recommend familiarizing yourself with Cat of Anthrosdottir fame. Her Anthro reviews are always right on the mark, just like her fashion sense.  Mustard wrap sandals are the cherry on top of an adorable outfit.

Which is your favorite mustard look? Is mustard a color you've already incorporated into your wardrobe? If not, do you plan on making it one?