Fashion and food are great indulgences on their own, so what could be better than combining them? Annabel Ly is a college student and Berkeley’s resident combo blogger, and she shares her passion for delicious meals and simple yet bold designs on Blushing Ambition, her recently-created site. A lover of tomatoes, Japanese street style, and all things white, Annabel satisfies our cravings for real, accessible looks and mouth-watering meals.

Gig?
Comparative Literature and Classics student at UC Berkeley.

Describe your style.
Simple without being too boring and still maintaining a different aesthetic. I had this terrible habit of buying things randomly and only wearing them once or twice but now I pay more attention to certain pieces and get as much use out of them as I can. I like quirky items every so often such as crazy florals or kooky scarves, but I try not to overdo it.

Where do you get your inspiration?
Japanese street style and magazines (my haircuts always come from the pages of Vivi!), other fashion blogs, various films, etc. I’ve never been very good at responding to this question!

How does living in Berkeley influence your style?
Is this where I’m supposed to talk about hippies? Just kidding. Actually, the Bay Area has influenced me quite a bit. The ambience here is completely different from the one I was used to growing up in L.A. and it was here that I started to move away from trends and more towards finding my own cozy niche. I mean, trends still run rampant on campus thanks to the easily accessible chain stores off campus (not saying this is a bad thing!) but in a sense I feel more compelled to stray away from head-to-toe trendy looks. I also have to admit that the hills and amount of walking I do around here also contributes to my inclination towards comfortable and easy-to-wear clothing. If I have to constantly adjust myself as I walk it’s a big N-O. I don’t like fussing around with what I’m wearing.

Any eras of fashion that you’re drawn to?
Definitely the 60s, or more specifically, French fashion in the 60s. Lately I’ve been really into the way bold eyeliner looks with shorter bangs. Every time I cut my bangs I get dangerously close to cutting above my eyebrows…

When did you start writing about and photographing food (and why)?
I’d say half a year ago when I started dating my boyfriend. We were discussing the other day about how we’ve been gained a few pounds since we first started dating because we’re “partners in crime” when it comes to indulging in food. He’s also an incredible cook so I get to eat amazing meals without having to step outside the door! I’ve been flip flopping about how much of my blog I want to dedicate to that but the percent may increase once I get a DSLR. I’ve been able to get away with my point-and-shoot up until now but I’m very anal and picky about what I post. I’m never completely satisfied.

Favorite meal?
Basil tomato soup with a grilled havarti cheese sandwich on sourdough bread. Or anything involving tomatoes, really.

How do your dining plans affect your style choices?
Not sure how to answer this one… I guess I wear looser articles of clothing when I know I’m eating a huge meal? This one day I went to Ike’s Place in San Francisco and almost suffocated after finishing a whole sandwich while wearing a tight dress. I had been planning on going downtown that day but had to go home to change and rest after that. Other than that, it’s the usual formal vs. casual question. Fancy restaurant, fancy dress, stuff like that.

What items are you coveting for fall?
Acne ‘Corine” blazer, black straight leg trousers (so bummed I missed out on these wool Helmut Lang ones!), white Repetto lace-up jazz shoes, a simple red wool cardigan, a big leather vintage gladstone bag, and oversized sweaters are the first things that come to mind. Oh, and I’ve been on a huge outerwear kick in anticipation for cooler weather and am looking for pastel-colored trench coats! I love black as much as any fashion blogger out there but something about wearing light-colored layers in the fall really catches my interest. Can I also add that I really need a bicycle? That’s fashion related, right? Preferably a cute red one.

Favorite item(s) you own?
My white Acne button up shirt (it’s been in at least two of my recent posts!). I’ve worn it every way possible: tucked into a skirt, with rolled up jeans, under a strappy dress, etc. I’m convinced that everyone needs a versatile white shirt. White may be my favorite color to wear at the moment.

How has your style evolved since you started Blushing Ambition?
I actually just started it a few months ago so I haven’t seen too much change, but when I look at past Chictopia posts I sometimes wonder why the hell I ever wore whatever the hell it was I was wearing. I suppose now I’m more conscious of how much use an article of clothing will get before I purchase anything. Like I stated earlier, I was stuck in the terrible habit of purchasing things on a whim and would force myself to wear said things without actually loving them 100%. I’m in the process of cleaning out my closet and it’s turned out to be a horrible pain in the butt but I’m getting somewhere.

Check out Annabel’s blog at blushingambition.blogspot.com.

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When it comes to fashion, we here at The Supermelon love our little extras. You know what we mean—the quirky zipper, the hidden pocket, and all of those other unexpected little gems that give a piece of clothing its character. While accoutrements like these will always capture our eyes and hearts, every so often we find ourselves slipping back to simpler times, embracing more straightforward pieces as if they were wearable comfort food. Our latest foray into simplicity has led us to one of the most basic and perhaps most underrated garments: the T-shirt.

Why It’s Sweet: After who knows how many seasons of wrapping ourselves in bandage dresses, sucking it in for high-waisted skirts and shorts, and corseting ourselves into vests and blazers, the comfort of your basic tee has never been more alluring. Typically made of cotton or jersey, the T-shirt is soft and comfy whether fits snugly or hangs loose. Because of its forgiving fabric, tees are generally flattering on everyone at most any age, making the piece an easy, no-regrets buy and a no-brainer in the fashion realm. The T-shirt has also made great gains in terms of versatility; now more than ever, it’s seen as chic to pair a simple tee with tailored trousers or a sleek skirt. The contrast makes the outfit interesting, wearable, and a virtually seamless transition from day to night.

Why It’s Sour: Finding ways to keep your tee fashionable can certainly be tricky. After all, you want to look classic and carefree, not as if you just threw on the last thing in your closet because it’s laundry day. At times we can’t help but worry that the T-shirt is not strong enough to portray our fashion sensibility and personal style on its own, compelling us to overcompensate for its simplicity with over-the-top accessories, shoes, and outerwear—a little counterproductive, considering the point of this garment is to keep things simple. We also often feel forced to counteract the play-clothes vibe of our simpler tees by going to great lengths to ensure that the rest of our look is grown-up, again negating the easy feel of this look.

Our conclusion: We love our edgier outfits, but try as we might, we can’t fully resist the call of the tee. Judging by how many options are out there these days, our pro-tee sentiment seems to be the consensus. Grab a hold of this trend by stocking up on classic T-shirts with original attitudes. You’d be surprised how much personality an intense graphic or eye-catching pattern can lend to one of these guys. Interesting cuts work the same way—a detail like an exaggerated scoop neck or elongated sleeve will not detract from the subtlety of the look, but will lend it some flair. If you’re still skeptical that the whole jeans-and-T-shirt thing can be as fashionable as any other ensemble, ditch the denim. Try your tee over sleeker pieces like liquid leggings or tailored black pants, and add an open vest or pair of suspenders for extra quirkiness. Layer tees, hang them over one shoulder, cut the sleeves off, and generally play around until you find a look that manages to be both classic and fresh, playful and chic. It’s all just a matter of refining your fashion sensibili-T.

Where to Shop:
www.forever21.com
www.topshop.com
www.shopbop.com
www.satineboutique.com

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A rising star amongst Canadian style bloggers, Toronto’s Ashleigh displays some of the city’s eclectic style. On Rantings of a Fashion Addict, she showcases her ability to intermingle vintage finds with everything from high street fashion to high end pieces from the likes of K Karl Lagerfeld. We talked to Ashleigh to find out a bit more about her style and the influences of residing in one of Canada’s most stylish cities.

What is your take on style?
I like to dress based on my mood. I think style should be based on what makes you feel good and not on what you think others think will look good. I would say it’s also hard to define my style because I’m not a static person at all and love trying new things, new looks. That’s one of the main reasons why fashion and style intrigue me. I am also a true believer that you don’t need to break the bank in order to look good, which is probably why I love thrift shopping so much!

What led you to take on the fashion blogosphere?
I wanted a creative outlet that allowed me to get away from my technical world of numbers and science, and connect with other people interested in fashion. It all started on Google (I had never even known that blogs such as these existed), and continues with the blog that I have created (with J’s help, he is my wonderful photographer)!

Toronto is a major hub of Canadian fashion. How has life in the city affected your style and fashion sense?
I am more open to trying new and different looks. Toronto is such a multicultural and diverse city so there are a lot of different fashion styles that I am exposed to. I am also lucky to be near so many wonderful thrift stores (there are so many in Toronto) and being a former student on a budget, I have really come to appreciate that. I love to incorporate different vintage and thrift pieces into my looks. For all else unique/vintage/custom and one of a kind, we have Queen Street which I guess is kind of like New York’s Soho area (just not as packed!).

You’ve got some mad thrifting skills. Any tips for the recessionista out there?
You have to go with an open mind and frequent different places often. I go probably about twice a week and many times come out with nothing. It’s hit or miss, so you need a lot of patience. Of course, you need to also enjoy the thrill of the hunt which I think is most important.

Three people, dead or alive, to dinner - who would you choose and why?
1. My great-grandmother, so that she could tell me all of the crazy stories about my grandfather that he can’t remember anymore.
2. Fairuza Balk, so we could discuss her role in The Craft (one of my fave movies), life in the ‘90s grunge era and where she has disappeared to all these years.
3. Karl Lagerfeld, come on! Do I really need to explain that one? The man is an international icon, machine and a beast in the fashion industry! I would love to even just grab a vanilla latte with him for 10 minutes.

What are you listening to lately?
A lot of Cranberries, Dave Matthews Band, U2, Depeche Mode, Lady Gaga, David Guetta, Lil Wayne, and a slew of ‘90s dance mixes.

Things you can’t live without?
Hmmm…I hope these can count: Love, Family and Friends, traveling, coffee; and of course, as this article is related to fashion, mascara, skinny jeans, Ray Bans, my magazine subscriptions, and my vintage bags!

What is your wardrobe’s most versatile or remixed piece?
I would have to say my red vintage Gucci bag. It always adds just the right amount of colour to an otherwise “boring” outfit. It’s one of the great pieces I have found out thrifting and surprisingly cost me a whole $3!

What items are on your wish list for fall?
Anything Alexander Wang and Acne spring/summer 2010 (it IS a wish list so I will keep on wishing), Rad Hourani booties or just about any black platform ankle booties, chunky knits which are always a fall staple for me, new pair of thigh high boots, and a leather vest.

You might not know …
That I have a massive Barbie collection both new and vintage. I have many of the original dolls from the ‘60s and ‘70s. I used to even collect Barbie Bazaar magazine. I think that is where my initial interest in fashion started as I have always been really intrigued by her extensive wardrobe and intricate outfits!

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Banana split. Side splits. Split personality. The list goes on of things containing the word “split.” Designers during the fall 2009 season certainly explored splits. We witnessed the vacillation between black and white as well as split sleeves on the runway. Whether this new exploration to the world of splits and slits is a reflection of the current times or not, the outfits presented were visually captivating and dynamic. While Chanel stayed more conservative, Balmain forayed into new territory with slitted pants.

Multiply slits by several fold and the end result approximates the trendier slashed and shredded look. This fashion trend may appeal to those stereotypically termed “punk”, but it can be better classified as “rocker chic.” The strategically single or doubly placed slit, however, can evade this rocker vibe. For example, long split sleeves on a coat such as in Armani Privé seem classier. Split sleeves on ponchos, too, can age the apparel and wearer by several years.

A woman’s shoulders are one of her sexiest features, and thoughtfully placed split sleeves can emphasize the gentle curve of the joint. This category of split is the most mass produced and therefore the easiest to find when shopping. Split pant legs are much harder to find, and you will probably have to pay a much steeper price. For split bottoms, there are always skirts with high slits. Dresses also can be good split/slit options, as they can be quite creative.

Free People oversized tee ($50, FreePeople.com) – Choose where the slit falls on your body. Wear it with the cutouts hanging from the shoulders or revealing the line of your torso. Layer this top over a sheer turtleneck as the temperature drops with dark jeans. Or, slip on the top by itself paired with a casual skirt and sandals for a warmer season look.

Mason by Michelle Mason dress ($242, Shopbop.com) – Though from her Spring 2009 line, Michelle Mason’s mini dress is anything but “so last season.” (It’s not even on sale yet!) Let the black color be a backdrop for this winter’s bold, electric hues such as fuchsia and cobalt blue. You will look absolutely killer with sky-high heels and some striking jewelry. There is always room in your closet for another LBD.

Missoni “Cloris” cape ($1216, MadisonLosAngeles.com) – Unfortunately, my obsession with this cape does not compensate for the extravagant price or my dwindling bank account. But, I can wish. Imagine this sweater with leggings and ankle boots. The belt around the waist helps to bring some definition to the flowing sleeves. The colorful print in signature Missoni style is fun, playful, and timeless.

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Organic by John Patrick has been on our radar for quite some time, if only for the fact that his line is eco-friendly and, well, organic. His garments have a simple style, and classic shape which got the attention of environmentally conscious fashionistas everywhere.

His Spring 2010 collection takes things up a notch with gently beautiful colours and prints, classically shaped blazers and softly cut trousers and shorts, in addition to some fabulous floral dresses. John Patrick is definitely bringing a solid sophistication to eco-chic, and some light, refined style to Spring 2010.

Photos:
Style.com

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The self-described “slightly mystical” collection by Acne’s founder Jonny Johansson delivers a new dose of trends. Gone (already?) were this year’s body-con dresses, replaced by slinky, slightly sheer floor-length pale dresses. Fashion favorites such as skinny jeans, denim jackets, and leather were all re-worked into innovative design. Overall, the fluid cuts and worn-in feel are not wholly unfamiliar, but entirely new.

Signature Acne Jean drainpipes accessorized themselves with fanciful armor plate patches, as opposed to the already overdone distressed denim skinnies. Acid wash denim jackets, also adorned with metal “shoulder pads,” were paired with leotards and tie dye tights, but were definitively not 80s. This denim collection, concocted by British jewelry designer Husam El Odeh plays with the balance of tough and delicate.

Slouchy, snug suede manifested itself in mini dresses, new age stilettos (check out the triple heel!), and Hendrix-esque fringed jackets worn with loose, wrinkled silk pants. Topped with crumpled metallic accessories, the whole collection could be music festival wear from the future. While it may only be slightly mystical, this collection is overwhelmingly cool.

Photos:
Coutequecoute.com

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The latest collection from Erin Fetherston for Spring 2010 oozes femininity and lady-like style with a touch of inspiration from Japan in the cherry blossom print that found its way into many of the garments on Fetherston’s runway. Soft colours and light sheer fabrics ruled with chiffon mini dresses, organza boleros, and evening dresses with translucent leg-baring detail. Fetherston also threw in a touch of sparkle for spring with some delightful garments including a pair of sequined shorts and a sparkling dress in the same pattern. Last, but definitely not least, were the whimsically pretty lace gloves and sheer headpieces and hats which gave a sweetly polished ladies-who-lunch look to the collection.

Photos:
Style.com

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While schoolgirls are soon to start rolling up their pleated skirts in hopes of making a splash this back-to-school season, athletes everywhere will be padding themselves and tying on cleats with the express purpose of defeating their rivals. As for the fashionistas of the world? You’ll be dressing somewhere in between. True to the tensions of a new semester, it’s time to re-embrace an old frenemy: the power shoulder. Say what you will about football uniforms, the strong shoulder is an aesthetic that, like the class bully, resurfaces every so often just to let us know who’s boss.

Why It’s Sweet: If you ever want to know what it feels like to enter a room with unchecked confidence, rock a power shoulder. We of course don’t mean to imply that a woman cannot or does not feel sexy in softer lines—on the contrary, some of our most I-am-woman-hear-me-roar moments came upon us when we were wrapped in something clingy and feminine. But there is a distinct no-nonsense aura that a dramatic shoulder implies, and we’d be lying to ourselves if we pretended that other silhouettes did the same. After all, who wears the power shoulder but the gutsiest executive, the hardest rocker, the strictest teacher? A strong shoulder, much like a bright red lip or a pencil-point stiletto, just screams strong, sexy boss-lady. And we love it.

Why It’s Sour: For all its posturing as an invincible fashion force, this look is somewhat limited in where it can go. Dressed up as part of a larger concept, big shoulders are something to be reckoned with. But taken out of their element into a more casual or haphazard setting, this look can become one to avoid altogether, as the typical lines and fabrics of every day sportswear aren’t always well-suited to an architectural upper body. And let’s not forget about the times our bodies may work against us—what about the smaller girls who would be drowned completely by a broad upper body, or the ones who are already strong-shouldered and could quite literally look ready to tackle an opponent in anything too extreme? A tricky play, indeed.

Our conclusion: The strong-shouldered trend is one we’re dying to sign up for this fall. Luckily for us, the season’s designs offer way more options than the traditional inverted triangle silhouette. From the soft slopes of Chanel’s polka-dotted skirt-suit (which we ADORE), to the crystalline lines in Jean Paul Gaultier’s water-colored jacket, there really is a shape for everyone. As advised, we’ll stick with shapes that flatter our figures and encourage you to do the same; look for a narrower range from shoulder to shoulder if you’re smaller, and play with bold, but not clunky, looks if you’re more statuesque. Also, make sure to keep your waistline extra neat with a smart belt, closure, or expertly-sewn seam; you’ll find the shapely contrast between your wide upper body and little middle to be divine. Just remember, if you keep the rest of your silhouette feminine and sharp, you’ll be able to tackle this broad trend and look nothing like the far-less-glamorous football players you’ll see storming the field this fall. Score.

Photos:
NYmag.com

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Under the Bryant Park tents, repping the flag and its aesthetic roots couldn’t be more in vogue—until florals and patterns swamped the catwalk (Derek Lam), followed by the return of the banded dress (Hervé Leger), not to mention exotic safari print swimsuits (DVF). Divergence and contradiction in look and sensibility provide a colourful window into spring fashions. Standouts so far are those that convey a certain time period or place, however incongruous in the context of each other. Though there are no coherent seas of furs or neons or nudes as in the fall, the Mediterranean, the Nile, and both local coasts are flamboyantly represented.

Drawing upon a history of exploration and militia, Alexander Wang’s 2010 collection is red, white, and blue in hue and in feeling. Classic lines are revisited as flowing A-line skirts and recurring forms of beige maintain references to the American west, and a smattering of striped red and whites atop blue bottoms and brown penny loafers reinforce flag fever of days of yore. Pieces are elegant, if casual; and trendy, if simple. Wang’s designs are more romantic in spirit than was his F/W ’09 assemblage of studs and boots. They are exceedingly wearable without reaching minimalism, as in past seasons. Rather, a dynamism exists in the structures of fluid skirt drapery in combination with coarser textures and peek-a-boo cut-outs. And of course, rock-tinged biker chic wasn’t quite out of his system from fall ’09, so we can once again relish a decidedly fewer set of minis and leather (black, natch).

On the bolder, brighter, and more patterned side of the tracks is Derek Lam’s collection of vintage silhouettes and wild prints. Blues, greens, and reds burst from the belted get-ups evoking ‘40s sophistication. The collection features waist-hugging frocks with busy floral ornamentation (and many a trim thigh). A mid-century working woman dons the rainbow, vivid as Mediterranean yellows and teals. Casual glamour? Yes, please. Floral blouses, star-studded belts, and laced oxford booties lent the collection a modern elegance that visibly referenced an earlier epoch— one that has the oomph to reinstate itself today.

Photos:
Style.com

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Fall’s wardrobe for dinners, dates, and lucky days just got more feminine, flirty, and best yet, more affordable. New York based designer Jill Stuart has teamed up with Bloomingdale’s to create a set of frocks that retail for decidedly less than her runway looks. While Stuart’s Fall ’09 RTW collection screamed glam rock-meets-ice queen (you guessed it, a smattering of edgy black and supple white), the new Bloomie’s line is soft and simple with classic lines, duel tone hues, and romantic silhouettes.

Fitted, strapless necklines are key to the collection. Bustier dresses come in all textures, including the simple Two-Tone Bustier Dress ($228), the Satin Bustier Dress with corset-like detailing ($188), and the Lace Bustier Dress with Ruffle Skirt Overlay ($248). The form-fitting frocks are softened with figure flattering A-line finishing. Think satin, lace, and sheer gauze with delicate ornamentation and scalloped necklines (and don’t forget empire waists all around). Along with the rest of the design world, whose collaborations and diffusion lines have bloomed in this market of thrift, Stuart’s work will surely reach a new, eager clientele—perhaps with a smaller budget, but with chic sensibility just the same.

Where to Shop:
Bloomingdales.com

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