new year's yves

photo by mikael jansson

it has become a tradition on sisters in black frocks to end the year with an homage to yves saint laurent and while I know hedi slimane has dropped the yves, I still think this photo counts. I have been saving this image for the perfect day and now I think the time has come. in case you were wondering, this pic is from the march issue of interview magazine and it is from one of my favorite editorials in 2013. the layout is entitled the art of shopping and it takes place at the legendary bergdorf goodman department store in new york city. there are so many clever and stylish images in the editorial, but this is by far, my favorite one. what is not to love about these hedi slimane for saint laurent looks on these two models......this collection was definitely one of my top 10 of the year and I think karl templer did an impeccable job with the styling. its not only the clothes that I admire, but I also like how in the moment, it is. immediately my eye gravitates toward those wide brimmed black hats and the way they practically cover their faces.....there is so much mystery conveyed, leaving much to think about. personally, I think there is something very sisters in black frocks about these image, almost like a photo shoot we would do. I like how these two models are walking side by side with their bergdorf goodman bags all decked out in those floor sweeping saint laurent gowns. I also love the fluidity of those saint laurent dresses as they move. there is something kind of witchy about these looks together, but I think it works in that hedi slimane goth chic way, we all know and love. I respect that hedi slimane really kept with his own aesthetic in this collection, but still incorporated those classic ysl elements. somehow, I can see the late yves saint laurent approving of hedi slimane's vision for his spring 2013 collection and perhaps even loving this photo. if you have not seen this stunning mikael jansson layout from the march issue of interview magazine I highly suggest you take a look....it doesn't get any more incognito noir chic than this. so on that note, happy new years yves and of course, to more dark glamour in 2014!

full of grace

after much consideration, I think I have picked my favorite editorial of the year. interestingly, I think it corresponds so well with the annual christmas eve midnight mass special that airs on television and with pope francis being named time magazine's 2013 person of the year. I am by no means a religious person, but I have always had a strange fascination with the way the way nuns dress and also, the pope. perhaps, it has something to do with all that drapery of their gowns or maybe their habits and headdresses, whatever it may be, I find it all so stylish and I love it when editorials can somehow see all that style and beauty, that I see. I was quite taken earlier this year, when I saw this vogue brazil editorial from the february 2013 issue and I must say months later I still feel very strongly about it. the layout is actually entitled cheia de graça, which translates as full of grace and features model izabel goulart dressed as a luxurious and decadent nun who looks like she is yet to take her vows of poverty. I love how dramatic and cinematic this layout is and I don't know why, but I think it feels very much like a film. its not only the clothes that standout, but that beautiful church setting....so much detail in every aspect. the layout was styled by vogue japan's editor-at-large anna dello russo and she styled izabel goulart in pieces from chanel, fausto puglisi, and dolce & gabbana....just to name a few. its interesting how this is actually high fashion and not actually nun attire....it really takes religious chic to a whole new level. at any rate, I think it is brilliantly styled and I love how glamorous it is. this is definitely the kind of religion I like....there are more images from this layout that I will share in the future, but as for now, these are the ones that I am feeling inspired by. oddly enough, now, whenever I think of pope francis at the vatican these are the photos that will forever be implanted in my brain. I love it when an editorial, gets me thinking interesting thoughts that go beyond fashion....this one is a classic!





photos by giampaolo sgura

rosary mode

photo by my sister

I hesitated about posting this image, but I thought the timing seemed rather appropriate and after looking at that stunning vogue brazil layout I said to myself.....why not? my sister actually took this photo of me last year in italy when my family and I went to visit the vatican. when I look back at my time there and all of the amazing detail that was put into st. peter's basilica, I still can't believe how all that was executed and even though I was not born catholic, I think there is something beautiful for everyone to discover. I must admit, I have always had a fascination with rosary necklaces. perhaps, it all started with madonna in the 80's and even that film the craft from 1996. I don't know why, but growing up I loved the way those girls in that film dressed....especially fairuza balk and her goth-like rosary necklaces. those are my two very obscure rosary moments that I so vividly remember and as of now, I am looking back at the fall 2008 givenchy collection for style inspiration...as there are some really interesting noir chic rosary necklaces from that season. at any rate, when I was at the vatican last year, they had rosary necklaces everywhere and I was so delighted to try this one on. yes, it is a bit oversized, but I thought it complemented my white dress with headband and dior sunnies quite perfectly. I might even look like a nun in this photo, but I think it somehow works. I was also so glad that my sister snapped this moment as I have always wanted a perfect rosary moment. whether in the 90's or today, I will always admire the look and style of rosary necklaces and I think crosses can look very holy chic if you wear them in the right way!

the bridonna

christian lacroix fall 2009 couture

somehow, by looking at that giampaolo sgura vogue brazil layout and my impromptu photo shoot at the vatican I couldn't help but think about the christian lacroix fall 2009 couture collection and this bridonna look. I have no idea if bridonna is an actual word, but I like too think, that it is. if you take some time to observe each aspect of this model in that extravagant wedding dress you can definitely see how she is a unique blend of a bride and the madonna....two very interesting combinations. there is something very holy and religious about this look, that I so admire. I must admit I am not the hugest fan of christian lacroix just because I think he is a little too meretricious, for my taste, but I still admire his skill as a designer.....he was a true couturier. this was actually the final look from his last collection, before he was sadly forced out of business and I think he certainly closed on a high note. in case you are unfamiliar with haute couture, most shows end with a bridal look and I think this one takes religious chic to a whole new level. there is so much attention to detail with those floral designs and with that satin gown. plus, let's not forget that eye catching gilded headdress. I also love how she reminds me of an image of a saint in a devotional church painting....I could totally see this on a ceiling in the vatican. there really is so much to look at and I think this bridonna look is a magnificent combination of art and fashion. christian lacroix always ended his collections with some amazing brides and if you have never seen I highly suggest you go back and reminisce on some of his past bridal looks. this is my personal favorite. perhaps, I am style bonkers, but one day I would love to go back to the vatican and wear this look there....I think this bridonna ensemble would be rather appropriate, don't you think?

a winter in st. petersburg

photo by deborah turbeville

happy official first day of winter....I thought this image seemed rather appropriate for today. recently, I was looking back at the vogue italia july 2006 issue and came across an interesting editorial entitled a winter in st. petersburg photographed by deborah turbeville. she passed away a couple of months ago and ever since I heard the news I must confess I have been quite obsessed with reminiscing through her body of work. she had a magical way of blending darkness with high fashion that I found so inspiring. I also admire how cinematic her editorials were. just study this image and you can see how it conveys a story without using words. its all about their faces and body language. plus, I think those beautiful black ensembles contrasted with that white snow, indicates so much. its obvious they are both in agony and I loved how deborah turbeville was never afraid to channel the dark side....I believe she was one of the first fashion photographers, to do so. at any rate, I have a fascinating story to tell. I recently messaged franca sozzani through instagram asking her if she would be paying homage to deborah turbeville in the pages of vogue italia. surprisingly, she responded to my message and told me the december issue would be dedicated to her. I had no idea she would even answer me, but the intriguing part was when she wrote me back saying how much she missed deborah turbeville and how she would never forget the moment she discovered her. I was surprised by how lengthy she was with her response, but I so appreciated her taking the time to answer my question. franca sozzani has a major passion for photography and I love that she totally understood my fascination with deborah turbeville's visual style. our conversation got even more intriguing with discussions about helmut newton, herb ritts, and even nelson mandela. I will save my franca sozzani stories for another post, but in the meantime, I just love how sisters in black this deborah turbeville image is. I don't know about you, but this photo makes me want to put on a black cape and act dramatic in the snow. perhaps, I am a bit overboard, but I love how captivating her work can be. she definitely could always see such beauty in darkness and I think that is what I will miss the most about her....if you have never seen this editorial, I highly suggest you look back on it...perfect for the winter's solstice!

the cape dress

viktor & rolf fall 2013 couture

I don't know why, but looking at those dramatic black capes in that deborah turbeville photo got me thinking about viktor & rolf's brilliant fall 2013 couture collection. I have been waiting for the right time to discuss this season and now seems rather appropriate. personally, I think this viktor & rolf collection goes above and beyond and I love how sisters in black frocks, it is. its very rare for me to like every look that comes down the runway, but there is just something so noir chic about this entire collection. I love that it is high concept and completely wearable, at the same time. not many couture collections can do all that, but I think that is what makes this one so special. it appears as though, all of the looks are made out of the same black silk fabric and I like that all the models are wearing the same ropy sandals. its complicated, but yet so simple and I can totally see a japanese influence on this collection. personally, I see elements of yohji yamamoto, when I look through this season.

at any rate, out of all 20 looks from the collection, this black cape dress was my favorite. it appears so fashion forward from all angles, but I chose this image because I love how it looks, close-up. you can certainly see all that detail and of course that exquisite ruching. I also love that this cape is not very long, it is cut just below the knees...making it much more practical, perhaps, a day time cape....however, you want to classify it, you have to admit that this is an amazing piece. I know some people may see this ensemble as an enormous black blob, but I see beautiful structure and shape. I don't know why its been 13 years since viktor & rolf last designed a couture collection, but this is a sure sign that they must be doing more avant-garde and wearable fashion. I live for collections like this and I think this has to be one the best winter collection of the season....its always a thrill too see such practical couture in black!

to have and to hold

my beauty in wonderland montage

so my other exciting news is that my beauty in wonderland book has finally arrived from milan. in september, I mentioned that the photos franca sozzani selected would be placed inside a special moleskin journal. so after three long months, I can proudly say that the book is here and I must admit I cannot stop looking through it. so many inspiring photos to peruse through and how I got four photos inside this book still makes no sense, but I feel so honored that franca sozzani has taken notice of my work. this is by far such a creative highlight of my year and even though it took so long to receive I am glad it came in december, its the perfect way to end 2013....such a personal achievement. on a side note, I thought for fun, I would put together a montage of one of the photos in the book of me on the beach in my rick owens ensemble and black parasol and blend it with one of my favorite images of linda evangelista from the vogue italia june 1990 issue, and of course, the condé nast package it arrived in....I even thought the packaging was chic, too. at any rate, I thought this seemed like the perfect celebratory image....its got that vogue italia spirit mixed in with a sisters in black edge....quite a suiting combination. I don't know when I will be able to fully process how this all came about with the recognition and book, but I feel like I should really enjoy the moment...this is not an everyday thing. as of now, I don't know what will happen next, but if there is one thing I have learned through this entire beauty in wonderland experience, is that it is always important to stay creative, think different, and to believe in yourself...as you never know who is watching!

playing by heart

my chosen heart

this past week, I had two surprising and exhilarating things happen to me. I will share it in segments, but here is the first of the exciting news. it actually started in october.....franca sozzani (the editor-in-chief of vogue italia) decided to ask her instagram followers to post various images dealing with the theme of the heart. there were no rules to the challenge, just to try and be as creative as possible. of course, I sent in a couple of pics...only because I felt inspired by the shape of the heart. at any rate, this is the photo she chose and I think out of all 3 photos that I sent, this was definitely the most eye catching. in case you were curious, I played with my shadow and took a photo of my hand with a cut out heart and enhanced it with bluish tones. I must say I was so surprised to have a 9th photo selected by franca sozzani, as I totally admire what she has done for vogue italia in the past 25 years. it just seems a bit unreal that she would even notice me, but I feel so grateful for the opportunity. at any rate, with this challenge, there was a very interesting reward. my photo was 1 out of the 44 selected that was used on a limited edition bottle of disaronno alcohol and a collaboration with the italian fashion house moschino. the project is actually called moschino loves disaronno. it really was so cool to be included in this and I think the greatest part is that the profits for the moschino loves disaronno bottles will be donated to the charity fashion 4 development (sponsored by the united nations) to support the work of talented fashion designers in africa, with franca sozzani, as its goodwill ambassador. I had no idea that she was such a humanitarian, but I like that she does more than just run a fashion magazine. she truly is an inspiration and its great that through all this, I am able to discover all the fascinating projects that she is part of. I was also delighted to find out that earlier in the week, there was an unveiling of the limited edition moschino loves disaronno bottles in milan, and I thought it was quite cool that she put the bottles on display at the party. you can check out all the hearts including mine on vogue.it I am hoping that I will be able to get my hands on my special bottle...at any rate, I really enjoyed being part of something for such a good and stylish cause, grazie franca for including me once again in your vision!

here is the link:
http://www.vogue.it/en/magazine/daily-news/2013/12/heartfrancasozzani1#ad-image306865

sisters in issey miyake

this past weekend I asked my sister to help me find a new bilbao bag and I am pleased to say that I found a one of a kind pleats please messenger bag. I never knew issey miyake made this type of bag, but I am so excited to welcome this unique piece into my wardrobe. I promise to share my new bag in the future, but as of now, my sister and I can't stop obsessing over this issey miyake scarf. we first stumbled upon it on a mannequin in the window and we were both amazed by the structure and shape of that collar. also, by its versatility. you can wear the scarf so many ways. the mannequin had it bundled up and paired with a signature pleats please black dress. the look was so simple, but yet so eye catching with just the added element of that scarf. naturally, we took the scarf off the mannequin and both decided to try it on. its interesting how my sister and I chose to wear the scarf. my sister went for a more bohemian approach. I like how she layered it across her neck and the way it looks with her oliver peoples sunnies and her sleek hair bun. she makes this issey miyake look all her own and I so appreciate that. as for me, I chose a more japanese and futuristic way of wearing it. I live for incognito-chic fashion and with this scarf you can do just that. I was quite amazed by how oddly glam it looked in this pic, even with it covering my mouth. I also love the texture of those handmade buttons on that scarf and the way it contrasts with my paul smith sunnies....such an interesting blend. who knew a scarf could take on so many styles and shapes.....at any rate, neither one of us bought the scarf as the price was rather expensive, but we certainly enjoyed our impromptu photoshop, this is such an avant-garde piece, that is so our style....always something interesting from issey miyake!


photos by the sisters in black

bilbao dream

issey miyake fall/winter 2012

I love it when I find an inspiring look on the runway, even if it is from a menswear collection. as of now, I am all about finding that perfect winter black jacket and I feel like this might be my dream look. anyone who knows me is aware that I am very much obsessed with this signature issey miyake print as I carry around my bilbao bag wherever I go....so too see this pattern on a jacket is quite amazing. personally, I would love to wear this look in real life. its sleek, modern, and so cutting edge with those geometric designs. plus, what I also appreciate about it, is how practical it is.....this outfit could easily go from day to night, its all about the styling and how you choose to wear it. if this jacket seems to good to be true, it most likely is. I have a friend who told me that he went to the pleats please store in new york and asked about it. sadly, he told me that this jacket was made only for the runway and if it were to be sold it would cost about $30,000. I was somewhat surprised when I heard the price, but in a way I was not, because I know how much detail and time goes into making that signature bilbao print. this jacket definitely is a perfect blend of art and fashion, so I guess it is safe too say that the only place I will be seeing this jacket will be in my dreams.....I hate it when chic fashion is unattainable, such torture!

together forever

my issey miyake bilbao bag

so, I may not have that incredible issey miyake jacket, but I am glad too say that I have an equally chic bilbao bag with the same print. I bought this bag back in 2009 at the pleats please store in new york city and I must admit I still love it just as much as the day I bought it. I don't know if many people can say that about most of the purses they own, but this one has been such a major source of style inspiration in my life. I feel like wherever I go, it somehow becomes some sort of photo and style project. just this past summer, I went to the adamson house in malibu and decided to juxtapose my bag with the amazing tile work on that house. I don't even know if the photo is that great, but I love the way that colorful spanish tile pattern contrasts with the design of my bag....very eye catching if you ask me! this was a very spur of the moment photo, but I love how uniquely stylish my bilbao purse is. on a side note, I must admit that I don't think I could ever get tired of this bag....while some girls praise their louis vuitton and hermès bags, I stand by my bilbao purse....I love it when fashion meets art and this does just that and so much more!

lucent tote

the bilbao lucent tote

I don't normally like to buy the same bag in different colors, but there is something about this bilbao lucent bag that has caught my eye. interestingly, I stumbled upon a woman, last year in italy, carrying this same bag and I immediately gravitated towards the design and color. I was so surprised too see that bag in such an unusual hue, but I loved the way it looked on the street. yes, I know its not black, but I think with the right ensemble this lucent bag can look quite striking. oddly enough, just last week I came across this image and fell in love with the styling. first of all, I must confess I am sucker for a sporty chic look and I love the way this person paired that lucent tote with those corresponding nike tennis shoes. personally, I think this is an excellent example of how to wear color. I carry my bilbao bag to the gym all the time so seeing this reassures me that I could easily get away with this purse in a bright tone. so, as of now, I am on the hunt for that perfect bilbao bag in a vibrant color. yes, its a bit of a departure for me, but I can't help it, sometimes you just need a little pop of color...wish me luck on my bilbao journey!

pretty woman

photo by sante d'orazio

I recently stumbled upon this image of julia roberts from instyle magazine and totally did a double take. I think this might be one of my favorite images of her. she just looks so stunning in that black dress with veil. photographer sante d'orazio shot this image of her in italy and I love the unique contrast of that country scenery with her long black dress and veil. plus, I think that silhouette is total perfection. this is a side of julia roberts that we rarely get too see in editorials, but I like seeing her this way. personally, I think this feels more national geographic than in style magazine. not sure why, but I seem to have forgotten about photographer sante d'orazio. he was one of my favorites in the 90's, but for some reason he escaped my brain once the 90's were over....strange how that happened, but I like how I am now discovering some unseen images. this photo was actually taken in 2007 and I love seeing julia roberts in this noir burqa shape! I think we get use too seeing the typical image of julia roberts with her big smile that we forget about some of her more obscure and lesser known images. if you look back at some of her editorials with herb ritts and deborah turbeville you can definitely see her in a different light....perhaps, a more dark and ethereal side, which I much rather prefer. at any rate, this sante d'orazio image is truly unforgettable and I love how sisters in black it is...I now feel like putting on a long black dress with veil and reenacting this sante d'orazio image, always love it when some unexpected noir style inspiration, magically appears in my life!

sheer perfection

valentino fall/winter couture 2010

I love when it is black friday, it gives me an excuse to showcase some of my favorite black frocks. I always have a black dress on my mind and recently I stumbled upon this gorgeous sheer black gown from the valentino fall/winter couture 2010 collection. I am really into sheer black dresses right now...as you will see why in my next post. I just think it totally adds a mysterious feminine edge. sometimes, black can be harsh which I like, but I think a little sheer fabric makes for a more ethereal look...just think of madonna in her frozen video and that sheer black top portion of her jean-paul gaultier dress that she wore in that video....so iconic. as of now, this valentino look is my current sheer black dress inspiration. I think when you get close up you can see all the incredible details especially with that bow collar and the lining around her arms. I also love the fluidity, I know if I saw this dress in real life I would definitely take notice....this is what noir elegance is all about. on a side note, I must admit I am liking valentino much better now with designers maria grazia chiuri and pier paolo piccioli. I just think their vision seems very current and much more relatable to the modern woman. I especially like their philosophy and vision behind this season....they entitled this collection the dark side of first love, taking some style inspiration from nabokov's lolita....if you look through all of the looks you can definitely see that influence. the models look like living dolls in such sophisticated silhouettes. this was such a standout couture season and if you have not seen this collection I highly suggest you go back and reminisce, perhaps you might find yourself feeling sheer inspired, as well!

vintage hermès

in my hermès black frock

I have been waiting for the right time to unveil my latest black frock and with today being black friday it leaves me no choice but to share. in september, I randomly walked into a vintage store in san francisco. my sister suggested I go look at one of the mannequins. I didn't really know what I would find, but it happened to be one of the most beautiful black dresses that I have seen in a very long time. immediately, I tried it on and I loved it. the sleeves were sheer black almost reminding me of that brilliant sheer black valentino fall 2010 couture dress, but it still had a casual chic vibe about it too. it went so perfectly with my paul smith sunnies and turban headband. I always feel like if something goes well with those two basics, than it is a keeper. in case you were curious, the dress is actually a vintage hermès dress. I am not sure what decade it is from, but I think its from the 70's. either way, it is my dream black frock. its comfortable, dramatic, but still very easy to wear. its funny how a couple of months ago, I wrote about how I regretted not purchasing a black kaftan dress by the row, but I feel like I have now made up for it. in a way, this dress reminds me of it. perhaps, a modified and shorter version. either way, isn't it funny how when you least expect it, a gorgeous black frock can somehow magically appear in your life.....this was such a fashion highlight of 2013 and I must thank my sister for finding this black frock for me, she is so good with vintage....what would I do without her? I have a feeling I will be wearing this dress for many years to come, glad to have this rare beauty in my closet!

the waterfall dress

in maison martin margiela

yes, I know this dress is not exactly sheer, but I love the drapery and cut on this maison martin margiela black dress. I actually have been using this image as style inspiration with my vintage hermès dress. I have no idea who this woman is, but I think she wears this dress beautifully. I have done a little research and I believe this look is actually called the waterfall dress. I can very much see how that term applies, just by looking at the sleeves and the way that dress accentuates her figure I totally can see a waterfall effect. however you want to classify this look, I am just loving dresses with dramatic sleeves. I could probably stare at this margiela dress all day and I must say I like that this woman paired her frock with those margiela tabi boots. its an unlikely pairing, but I think it works in such a dark, nonchalant, and antwerp-ian kind of way. my only problem with her are those sunnies....I never understood margiela and his approach to eyewear, a little too sci-fi for my taste! at any rate, this margiela dress has been a great source of style inspiration....its always a great feeling when you can take a modern look and apply it to something vintage, this is definitely one of those times.

red velvet

gwyneth paltrow

this past weekend, I was reminiscing back on tom ford's iconic fall/winter 1996 gucci collection and I couldn't help but feel nostalgic for his amazing velvet suits. I don't know if this suit looks dated or not, but I still find it extremely chic. personally, I think the suit has a cool 70's halston vibe and I love the tailoring and the trimming. the blazer has beautiful satin accents and I love the flare on those trouser pants. I also like that it is red.... it really gives the suit such a standout appeal. while I normally go for black suits, I think this one is quite special. I remember when I first saw gwyneth paltrow wearing this to the 1996 mtv video music awards I totally did a double take. I just thought she looked so cutting edge. I didn't really know who she was back then, but I thought she seemed like someone to watch. on a side note, I use to love seeing all the individuality on the red carpet at the video music awards back in the 90's. its interesting how times have changed, nowadays style at the video music awards seems to be about getting attention and causing controversy, which I find highly annoying. I hope one day it will be the opposite. at any rate, I must admit after I saw gwyneth paltrow in her red velvet suit, I tried to do the same, so I went to the gap and bought a pair of red velvet trouser pants hoping I could do my best knock off tom ford look. I didn't have the blazer, so it didn't turn out that great, but I give myself props for trying. either way, seventeen years later I am still inspired by this velvet suit and this collection. I always love it when tom ford and gwyneth paltrow work together for red carpet events. I think he totally understands her style....she was meant for this red velvet tuxedo and I think this was the outfit that definitely put her on the style map...such a tom ford classic!

double incognito chic

paul mccartney and george harrison

since today is my dad's birthday I thought I would celebrate with one of his favorite images. I actually showed this photo to him a couple of months ago and I knew automatically that he would love this. perhaps, it is the all in black, or george harrison's top hat, or maybe it is paul mccartney's sunnies, whatever it may be....it is way incognito chic. I suppose I got that mysteriously chic gene from my dad and in case you were wondering this image was actually taken in austria during the filming of the 1965 beatles film help!. this is such a rare photo and I think it is so my dad's style...I could definitely see him in paul mccartney's look back in the day. at any rate, we must thank our dad for constantly inspiring us with his amazing sense of style and for sharing a passion for interesting rock n' roll photography...I love that we can connect through style and images. he is the ultimate father in black....thanks dad for always supporting our blog and all our creative endeavors, love you!

gold grillz

photo by steven klein

is it me or are grillz becoming a major trend in fashion? I feel like it has been moving past hip hop and entering into the high fashion world. just look at michele lamy (wife of rick owens) and even madonna...these two fashion icons have been seen sporting some teeth jewelry. I must admit I like this look. of course, its not for everyone, but if you have the style and know the correct way to wear this look, I think it can be done. I would say madonna and michele lamy are perfect examples of women who understand how to wear grillz. recently, I was skimming through my magazine archives and came across some images of grillz that I found inspiring. interview magazine did a super chic editorial on diamond grillz earlier this year and even CR fashionbook did a clever take on them, for their first fall issue from 2012. as of now, this image of supermodel kristin mcmenamy from the w magazine september 2012 issue has been a major source of inspiration for me. yes, I know she looks a bit creepy with that mask, nose ring, and full set of grillz, but I like how ugly-beautiful she looks. sometimes, beauty doesn't have to be so perfect and I like that kristin mcmenamy is always the chosen model to do so. I would say that she almost looks like a mannequin in this photo, very wax like, but I love the way her grillz light up and I think that car light totally enhances her teeth in such a haunting, ghetto-chic way. yes, I know gold teeth are not what most people want to wear, but I love seeing grillz in fashion editorials. I am pretty sure that this look will not translate into real life just because I know most people want perfect white teeth, but I think its a unique beauty trend worth discussing!

sunnies and grillz

double self portrait

okay, so I am probably bonkers for doing this, but I had to. in case you cannot tell I am wearing a gold tooth. I work in the dental business, so having one made, is not really an issue. I have always loved this look and I don't care what people say I think its ghetto fabulous....that is, if you know how to style this look, properly. I think the key is keeping the look minimal and simplifying in black. after skimming through the w magazine september issue I totally felt inspired to do something reminiscent of that kristin mcmenamy photograph. of course, I didn't use a mask or a nose ring, but I decided to accessorize with my basics, which include my paul smith sunnies, a silver vine ring that I bought in italy, and my favorite black headband. as you can see, I did nothing too outlandish because I wanted the gold tooth too glimmer. I also am very fascinated by mirrors and reflections so I thought I would play with that concept when I photographed myself. steven klein also inspired me to play with color. I very much enhanced this photo, just because I wanted everything too shine bright in a ghetto glam manner. in the end, I like how we see two versions of the tooth. I must admit, at first hesitated to post this image, just because I didn't know if it would translate, but in the end, I realized its all about inspiration and after seeing kristin mcmenamy in her grillz I knew I had to do the same.....perhaps, the lesson I learned with this gold tooth project is that its always important to take fashion risks, even if no one understands!

clémenti chic

perhaps, now would be the perfect time to discuss some iconic gold grillz featured on screen. like most people who appreciate style, I love belle de jour. I thought catherine deneuve looked so yves saint laurent noir chic throughout the film. I also admired pierre clémenti's style in the film, too. I don't know if other people have felt that way about him, but I thought his style was way cutting edge for the time. I will never forget that amazing black leather jacket he wore in the movie...he looked so balenciaga fall 2002 and of course his gold grillz. like catherine deneuve, I was shocked too, when I saw his gold teeth, just because that doesn't seem like something you would see during that era....it feels more today. at any rate, this was another key moment that made me become very fascinated by gold grillz. I am probably strange for even remembering this specific part in belle de jour, but this scene definitely inspired me with my gold tooth photo project. I so love that creepy emphasis on his gold grillz. I don't know why, but every time I watch this film I always find something new to inspire me...not many films can do that and I love that about it. if you have never seen belle de jour, I highly suggest you see it, both catherine deneuve and pierre clémenti take noir chic to the next level.


belle de jour (1967)

on the marc

louis vuitton fall/winter 2003

with marc jacobs leaving louis vuitton I started to think about some his past collections and what I will remember most. I know most people love his various collaborations with japanese artist takashi murakami, but that is what I liked least about louis vuitton. it just seems too loud and label driven for my taste. personally, what I liked best at louis vuitton were the coats and capes. I remember back in 2000 marc jacobs designed a gorgeous blanket cape with a zig zag pattern and I loved that he even revamped this look back in 2012. perhaps, another brilliant winter coat season would have to be his fall/winter 2003 collection. this look in particular is one of my favorites. I just love that overall silhouette and the way that jacket plays with volume. its classic, but still so modern and I really like the added accessory of those long black leather gloves....its the perfect complement. perhaps, I am going off on a tangent, but there is also something very balenciaga about this look....I can't help but think of nicholas ghesquière 's brilliant fall 2006 collection. I could totally see this jacket being part of that collection. maybe that is why I like this look so much. either way, when I heard that nicholas ghesquière was taking over for louis vuitton this look immediately popped into my head. I have a feeling that we will be seeing similar shapes like this when nicholas ghesquière takes over. I am very excited too see what he has in mind at louis vuitton, but in the meantime, I will always appreciate the coats that marc jacobs designed during his years there. this form fitted silhouette will always be a classic and I love how 10 years later it still looks just as chic!

well structured

gareth pugh fall/winter 2013

looking at that louis vuitton jacket, I couldn't help but think about the gareth pugh fall/winter 2013 collection. I know these two collections are 10 years apart, but they both beautifully show how a well structured black jacket will never go out of style. there are so many great looks from this gareth pugh collection, but this noir ensemble might just be my favorite. I guess I am a sucker for a well fitted black coat, but what is not to love about this look? I think that silhouette is perfection and I also love the collar portion of the jacket. perhaps, my favorite part are those leather gloves. its interesting, how marc jacobs did the same with his structured jacket at louis vuitton. both designers show that a pair of black leather gloves are the perfect finishing touch to any elegantly structured black jacket. on a side note, its interesting to hear about what inspired gareth pugh for this collection. he mentioned a tribe of women called the asgarda that live in the carpathian mountains in europe, as well as, by the way women dressed from the late victorian era. I love the unlikely blend and I must say I am now looking into the asgarda women of the carpathian mountains....its always fascinating too discover what influences designers in their creative process. I would have never known and I just love how this collection blends dark romanticism in such a structured and sophisticated way. I highly suggest you check out this collection out if you have not seen.....its very sisters in black approved!

street schiaparelli

photo by gregory harris

this past weekend, I was skimming through the october issue of interview magazine and stumbled upon an eye catching editorial entitled karlie's couture. what caught my attention about the layout was that it seemed very sartorialist looking....meaning its all photographed on the street in such a casual-chic sort of way. I like editorials that take fashion to the street because that is where I think true style inspiration occurs. out of all the images from the layout, this pic in particular made me do a second take. perhaps, I am a bit bonkers, but I like this ensemble. after a doing a little research, I found out that the house of schiaparelli is now being relaunched. this outfit was designed special by christian lacroix just for this specific fall 2013 couture season. yes, this ensemble is a bit over the top, but I like those loose red pants and that corresponding black long sleeved top....its an odd pairing, but I think it works in an 80's christian lacroix sort of way....I like to call this look couture comfy chic. personally, my favorite part of the outfit has to be those striped adidas sandals. I must admit that I have the same sandals and I too like to wear them with socks. I have been wearing this look since the late 90's and I love seeing this now, in the pages of interview magazine....who knew this was still in style? I remember back in the day, models use to wear these sandals with colorful socks backstage at fashion shows and that is where I got my style inspiration from. its quite cool too see this look back again. its a strange, yet inspiring combination that I think somehow works. I don't know if people are interested in this label, but I will definitely keep an eye out for schiaparelli....am curious too see what marco zanini, the new designer, has in mind.

sexy back

photo by richard avedon

since I am feeling very richard avedon inspired this week I thought I would take a moment to look back at one of his best black frock moments. I don't know if many people even know of this image, but I loved this photograph the moment I saw it...this one is truly gorgeous. any chance I have to show off a beautiful black dress I will take full advantage. in case you were wondering, who the woman is, its actually model jean shrimpton. the photo was taken in 1965 at richard avedon's studio in paris. I love that halter dress silhouette and the way it drapes and highlights her beautiful back. I also appreciate the way jean shrimpton's hair somehow stands up on her own....her curls are styled to perfection. she looks so statuesque and I love all the glamour and mystique that this photo conveys. personally, I think its always sexier to show a little back, rather than some cleavage. for most women, the back is a nice part of the body to emphasize....boobs not so much. I might be going off on a tangent, but I see too many women who make that mistake. it should be the opposite, more back less chest. sometimes, I wish I could help certain women and teach them about covering up to look sexy. this photo perfectly exemplifies that. at any rate, I love that this image is over 48 years old and how it still looks completely modern. if there is one thing that this photograph teaches us is that there is beauty in not knowing.....bravo to richard avedon for capturing such an incognito chic and classic black frock moment!

avedon women

the exhibit opens with this photo of cheryl crane-daughter of actress lana turner

this past weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the opening night of the avedon:women exhibit at the gagosian gallery. of course, I was very excited to see this show as I have always admired richard avedon's diverse visual style. the exhibition spans six decades of his work and it was quite amazing to see how the gallery managed to put all of this together....what a career he had! of course, we all know richard avedon for his imaginative fashion photography and his gorgeous celebrity portraits, but we also get too see another side of him and some images he took of anonymous female subjects. personally, I was very fascinated too see his less obvious works, just because there was such a raw and gritty appeal to them, much different than what we are normally use to seeing. it seemed like no matter who richard avedon photographed, he could always capture something unique and special. richard avedon was so versatile and I think that is what I appreciate most about his photography. at any rate, if you live in los angeles and admire richard avedon's amazing visual range than you should definitely check out this exhibit. its one thing too see his images in magazines and books, but too see his photos in real life is quite spectacular, this is something that does not happen very often, making it a definite must see. on a side note, that night of the show I decided to take some photographs, myself, as I felt motivated to snap some pics of inspiring style and somehow blend it in with the surrounding richard avedon photos....I was quite pleased by what I saw around me, hope you like, too!



where to begin....over 300 richard avedon contact prints featured on this wall



posing with dovima in my london black frock and gucci heels



laroux in a balenciaga jacket, chanel boots, and a vintage knit dress



I asked this man to pose for me, I liked his casual chic look with this specific avedon photo....



a chic black hat blended in with some avedon photos...such a perfect combination!



just happened to notice this black frock in motion....love that shape and silhouette

meaningful beauty

with lauren hutton

not sure how these two moments happened at the avedon:women exhibit, but I am so glad they did. I am never shy to go up to people that inspire me, so when I saw both lauren hutton and angelica huston I knew I had to say something. I admire these two women for embracing their individual beauty and for not changing who they are. immediately, when I noticed lauren hutton, so many thoughts ran through my head...just because I think she totally defined american style in the 70's. I also think she started the whole sporty chic trend and perhaps, she also made it okay for women to not have perfect teeth. the photo below is my favorite richard avedon photo of her. I just love that black dress and that stare that she is giving to the camera. she definitely excudes confidence and I feel that not many models, have an understanding of style quite like her. for some reason, I always think of this quote in which she said: fashion is what you’re offered four times a year by designers and style is what you choose...I think that is such inspiring fashion advice and when I chatted with her I mentioned that quote and what an impact it had on my style. she was very kind and out of nowhere she told me that I had a very chic way of dressing. I was completely flattered by that remark...never in a million years would I think she would say something like that, but I graciously said thank you...what a moment that was!


photo by richard avedon



laroux, myself, and angelica huston

as for angelica huston, that was another memorable moment. for years, I have admired her as an actress...who could forget her performance in the grifters or her iconic role as morticia addams in the addams family...nobody could work a black frock quite like her. I remember back in the 90's, I read an interview in harpers bazaar with angelica huston, in which she said: I'm going to make myself beautiful. I might not have physical perfection, but I'm going to think myself into being beautiful. I don't know why, but I always think of that quote and I love that she knows that beauty is not about being perfect, but about being confident in yourself. its all about working with what you've got and not fixing everything with plastic surgery. its obvious that richard avedon saw so much beauty and style with her and I thought he captured her so exquisitely in the 70's. this is one of my favorite images of her....I so love her facial expression, that cuff bracelet, and how she is holding that pistol...its hard to look glam with a gun, but angelica huston does it all so elegantly. I was so honored to to chat with her and to take this photo. its obvious that she loves to wear black so I knew we would get along. overall, it really was quite special to meet these two inspiring women....personally, I feel like there is so much to be learned from both lauren hutton and angelica huston as I believe that they both understand what true beauty and style is all about!


photo by richard avedon

roitfeld interview

photo by mario testino

to all our readers, please check out my latest article featured on I want to be a roitfeld. its actually not an article, but more a question and answer about what has been going on in my creative world within these past couple of months. I must thank kellina de boer (the editor-in-chief) for coming up with these brilliant and thought provoking questions. for some reason, my question and answer reminds me a bit of something out of interview magazine, but of course it is done in that I want to be a roitfeld signature style that we all know and love. perhaps, kellina was inspired by that magazine....at any rate, I discuss some of my favorite designers, hobbies, art galleries, and of course, I talk about carine roitfeld and when I first discovered her. this image featured is probably one of the first times I ever took notice of her and it was from that moment on that I became so inspired by her creative vision and obviously her amazing sense of style. in case you were wondering this mario testino photograph is from the august 2001 issue of US vogue. carine roitfeld looked so noir chic in that balenciaga snap and buckle black balenciaga shirt and skirt. she totally defined cutting edge style and even after 12 years I still look back to this signature carine roitfeld outfit. at any rate, if you like the topics I talk about on sisters in black, do have a read at my latest article...its all very relative to this blog. on a side note, I must give an extra thanks to kellina de boer for always being so supportive of all my creative endeavors. so glad to be collaborators, but above all friends.

here is the link:
http://www.iwanttobearoitfeld.com/journal/2013/10/28/iwtbar-style-editor-dara-block.html

goth chic

photo by danny feser

no halloween costume this year, I just thought I would go back to black and be a little goth chic this year. after all, it comes so naturally to me. this photo was actually taken this summer in malibu, california. I meant to share this photo earlier in the year, but I thought, I would save this noir style moment for a creepy day like halloween. in case you were wondering, this pic was taken in an old monastery over looking the ocean. I was very surprised how stylish this monastery was....so naturally, I felt inspired. while walking around the monastery, I happened to notice a really beautiful meditation garden and I thought to myself....this would be perfect to take a photo loosely inspired by that vogue italia august 2008 editorial entitled silent. yes, I am strange for always having a layout in mind, but that is the way my brain works and what makes certain photo projects so special. naturally, I kept the wardrobe quite simple, as I am wearing my dior sunnies, a james perse black sweater jacket, and an american apparel black circle scarf. on a side note, I am actually using my scarf as a veil in this photo...it is very versatile, another reason why I love wearing it. this is what I pretty much wear in my everyday life, so there are no big style surprises here, but I like how that black and white setting totally completes my look. those perfectly arranged rocks and the way that cross is positioned in the center certainly adds a sense of mystery and darkness to this image. perhaps, I might even look like an italian widow. I guess that is for the viewer to decide....but however, you want to classify my look, I must say I so enjoyed styling this goth chic moment. its quite fun to play with image and I love it when I can incorporate my personal favorite photo inspirations into my everyday life. this photo shoot will always be a memorable one for me...viva goth chic!

graveyard girl

photo by steven meisel

the inspiration for my goth chic look was very much influenced by this vogue italia image from the august 2008 editorial entitled silent. this is by far, one of my all time favorite layouts and I just love how dramatic and fashion forward it is. I also love the composition of this photo and the way that model is standing in her black veil and sunnies, while holding those flowers in the middle of this cemetery. yes, this photo is melancholic, but it is still very noir chic and I definitely tried to follow the same approach at the monastery, when I was conceiving my photo. I don't know if you can see the connection between my image and this one, but in my mind I feel like there are some similar style aesthetics going on. its all about the right pair of sunnies and veil to complete this noir look and of course the right facial expression. on a side note, I so appreciate how vogue italia always knows how to find the beauty in the darkest of situations. perhaps, this is an eerie thing too say, but whenever I am in a cementary I always think of this photo. there is something so striking and haunting about it. I also must say, that I love finding beauty in the strange and unusual and turning it into something that is relatable to my life and style.....personally, that is what I think inspiring fashion editorials are meant to do...this steven meisel photograph certainly does just that, silent will always be a sisters in black frocks favorite!

valentino black

photo by deborah turbeville

I was sad to hear the news that photographer deborah turbeville had passed away this week. if you read vogue italia chances are you know of her. she had a very distinct visual style and she always created layouts that were romantic, elegant, but still very dreamlike. deborah turbevile often obscured her photos by scratching the negatives and also allowing her polaroid negatives to be lightened by the sun. there is a texture to her photos and I think if you study her images you can definitely see just that. her choice of settings also played a signature role in her work. just browse through her photo archives and you can always find an old theatre, a crumbling palazzo, a rococo apartment, or some kind of formal garden. her fascination with architecture and atmosphere certainly created such a mood to her work.

its so hard to pick a favorite image of hers, but if I had to select one that has has a personal style impact on my life it would have to be this photo from her september 2012 valentino haute couture layout for vogue italia. this was such an inspiring issue and I think she totally captured the renaissance beauty of that valentino collection and I love the way these three black frocks look against that harsh background. its a little messy, but still very elegant, with those soft noir silhouettes. to be honest, I never really cared so much for valentino, but because of this image I started to take notice of designers maria grazia chiuri and pier paolo piccolo and their design aesthetic for the legendary house. I love it when fashion photography allows me to open my eyes to something new. these black frocks are cut to perfection and I think with deborah turbeville's amazing eye it all just works together so accordingly. this image is so sisters in black, and on that note, I must share this inspiring quote by her:

I have an instinct for finding the odd location, the dismissed face, the eerie athmosphere, the oppressive mood...my muses are kafka, dostoyevsky, andrei tarkovsky, the list is endless...I like my pictures best when there is a sense of tension, an unfinished narrative,...ambiguity...in these times aesthetic taste is dismissed as irrelevant. well, I am perverse, for that very reason I'm more drawn to it than ever. I have been described as having style, of being a mannered photographer...it's some people's quarrel with my work and others' fascination.

such a perfect quote and I totally admire the way she blended film, fashion, and visual style all together...she was a total pioneer in photography and she will be greatly missed. if you are unfamiliar with her work, now, would be the time to check her out, a true inspiration!

in chairs

photo by laroux filjian

not sure how this mysterious moment happened...but I love how stylish it is. as laroux and I were leaving the nederlands dans theatre performance this past weekend, we noticed a gray stage surrounded by chairs. it was laroux's suggestion that I go sit in one of the chairs. I didn't really know what she wanted to photograph, so I just decided to act natural and let her take some photos. prior to this photo, we both discussed how stylish stage settings can be...perhaps, that is why she wanted to take some theatre-esque style photos. this was my favorite image that she took. I don't know if its my red martin margiela dress, my body language, or the way my hair looks, but I think its a very incognito chic image. I love the rows of chairs and how it contrasts with my red dress and all that drapery....it almost looks like a painting. I always think some of the best photographs happen when you least expect it and this certainly is one of those. I must thank laroux for snapping this enigmatic image. I love the angle, perspective, and the pop of color. originally, I was going to wear a black dress, but looking back at this pic, I am glad I decided to go with my red margiela dress. sometimes, a little bit of color in your wardrobe is necessary, but don't worry I have not given up on black!

floral frock

laroux in vintage scaasi

this past weekend, I went with my stylish friend laroux too see the nederlands dans theatre and of course we both got dressed up for the show. what I appreciate about laroux is that she always likes to look glam wherever she goes, even if she goes to the supermarket. so naturally, when we hang out it always becomes a photo shoot. laroux collects vintage dresses and I really liked her ensemble that she wore to the dance concert that night. I know it is not a black frock, but I think this colorful floral dress works on all levels. the styling and presentation is impeccable and in case you were wondering laroux's dress is by arnold scaasi. I was very unfamiliar with this designer, but from what I have read arnold scaasi has designed clothes for over 50 years, he mostly designs clothes for socialites, actresses, and first ladies. women like elizabeth taylor, joan crawford, brooke astor, and catherine deneuve have all been seen in his clothes. at any rate, what I loved about laroux's scaasi dress is that silhouette and the overall shape. it is cut perfectly at the waist and has the perfect pouf shape on the lower portion of the dress. I even think the floral pattern adds a cute girlish factor. laroux has a such a way of wearing vintage fashion and I think this was my favorite moment that I snapped of her at the dance concert. I love that we get too see the structure of her dress in this photo and I think it blends perfectly with that setting. there is something kind of royal about this moment and I like the body language and expression that laroux is conveying here. it almost looks like an oil painting. I must thank laroux for yet another fabulous photo moment and for informing me on designer arnold scaasi...I always love it when unexpected style inspiration occurs!

dior drapery

natalia vodianova

for some reason, I can't stop thinking about this navy blue silk ensemble. I spotted this last week on supermodel natalia vodianova at the recent christian dior spring 2014 show and I thought it looked stunning on her. I love the turtleneck and the drapery of those trousers....its simple, but cut to perfection and when you combine those two elements together, you know you have the perfect look! by far, that is what raf simons does best and I know if I saw a woman walking down the street in an outfit like this, I would totally take notice and probably ask her about it. I must admit I have not actually seen the latest dior collection, but if the clothes look as good as this, I probably should check it out! this navy blue top and pants is very sisters in black frocks approved! personally, I like it better when I am inspired off the runway...that is where the real style happens!

open back

yasmine kittles in brian lichtenberg

for some reason, I cannot stop thinking about this dress. a couple of months ago, I went to the prism gallery to see the daido moriyama photo show and while I should have been more focused on the photography my eyes were completely drawn to this little black dress. I must admit when I like what someone is wearing I will go up to them and ask them about it. I believe style should be discussed and I think it is always a nice gesture to compliment someone on what they are wearing. I think I totally interrupted her conversation, but a dress like this is a complete fashion emergency. the girl kindly told me that the dress was designed by brian lichtenberg. I did some research and found out that he is a los angeles based designer, who specializes in mens and womenswear. I just love the drapery of the dress especially on the lower portion and I love that the length is short. it is both fancy and casual and I like the way she wore her hair in a messy bun and I think those high heels are the perfect complement. in case you were wondering, the girl is actually named yasmine kittles.....she is a singer and fashion muse. after we talked, I politely asked if she would pose for me and she did. a couple of days later, I sent her this image and she loved it. this might be one of my favorite random fashion encounters just because it feels so sisters in black frocks. on a side note, I must thank yasmine kittles and brian lichtenberg for the unexpected style inspiration....I am so on the lookout now, for a similar black dress!

stay within the lines

balenciaga fall/winter 2013

speaking of black frocks with an open back, I am kind of liking this balenciaga black dress from the fall/winter 2013 collection. there is something kind of hypnotic about it with those lines and I love how elongated it looks. its futuristic, yet classic, and I like that modern combination. I must admit I still have not adjusted to alexander wang at balenciaga...how can one replace nicolas ghesquière? he has so many stellar collections and he created such an iconic balenciaga look for so many seasons. I think it is going to take some getting use to the new balenciaga. at any rate, I will say this black frock is quite stunning and I love the back details...looks very sci-fi, but still very sophisticated-chic! perhaps, if alexander wang keeps making black dresses like this, us sisters in black will be happy!