Rag Report: Sparkling Enchantment

Rag Report dives under the covers of fashion publications to rant or rave about all the glossy goodness.

In this month’s Vogue, readers are exposed to precious metals, like gold, stitched into fabrics creating a fairytale essence. Bruce Weber photographs model Karen Elson in a spread titled “The Enchanted Garden.” The looks are magical and as delicate as the nature that surrounds them.

In the first photo, Elson wears a Tom Ford metal-and-silk jacket layered over an Oscar de la Renta lace-trimmed silk blouse. Her tousled red curls illuminate in the sunlight and mimic the precious metals in her jacket. She has plump deep berry lips and holds an intense gaze. Her features are soft, and therefore give the photograph a whimsical tone.

The next photo features Elson in a Tao Comme des Garçons cotton jacket and matching dress. The white cotton and floral stitching give her an angelic look. The baby lamb makes her appear pure and innocent. Once again, her radiant locks reflect the sunlight and form a halo of light around her head. The background is blurred so she is the focal point of the photograph.

Elson blends into the trees with a Valentino embroidered tulle dress in her next photo. Unlike the previous two photos, her face is in the shadows, making the dress the center of attention. The gold threads sparkle in the sunlight and instantly catch the eye. This photo is intriguing because Elson’s arms blend in with the trees. Her lean body is elongated as she offers a dream catcher above her head.

This spread offers a sense of magic, innocence and purity. The fabrics sparkle and shine like the sun that reflects them. Nature sets a peaceful mood and creates a relaxing atmosphere. A walk in the Enchanted Garden seems to be the perfect way to spend an afternoon.

-Brittany Fowler

Rag Report: Couture Here! Couture There! Couture Everywhere!

Rag Report dives under the covers of fashion publications to rant or rave about all the glossy goodness.

This month’s issue of Madame Figaro is a real eye catcher for Diane Kruger fans and haute couture fanatics alike. Not only is Kruger featured on the cover, but she’s also in a 22-page editorial of jaw dropping garments right from spring 2011 couture week. Kruger dons Givenchy, Armani Privé, Chanel, Dior, Atelier Versace, Gaultier, Valentino and Alexis Mabille. Lucky, lucky girl!

Riccardo Tisci created a breathtaking collection for spring 2011 couture week. Japan heavily influenced the design process, and the craftsmanship in the details leaves us in awe. Kruger is stunning in Givenchy as she shows the back of the dress to the photographer. The use of space in the image is effective that even though there are grandiose fixtures all around, our eyes are drawn to the detailing of the dress.

John Galliano - need I say more? His 50s inspired haute couture collection provided drama, intensity and an elegance that is famous Dior. Kruger is nothing short of amazing in the gown. Her whole look, from her hair to makeup is flawless. The dress provides a strong sense of romanticism and sensuality to the atmosphere.

The last image of Kruger is of her wearing Valentino. Compared to previous collections, his spring 2011 haute couture collection stuck to the basic simples. Nudes, pastels, ruffles and butterflies were prominent in the collection. Kruger looks chic, sophisticated and the epitome of grace in this image. The photographer’s decision to capture Kruger in a close-up highlighted her features as well as the dress.

Everything works well together. The nude color gown compliments Kruger’s skin tone rather than washes her out. This photo is effortless.

Kruger shines through in each couture ensemble she wears in this editorial. All the looks work for her as her confidence and natural sexiness is displayed in each photo.

-Ivie Igbeare

The Craze: Go Nude!

The Craze is a trend report bringing you the latest (and, duh, the greatest) in beauty and style.

Valentino spring 2010

Nude tones are a perfect way to spring into warmer weather. From beige to blush, to peach and eggshell, neutral apparel adds some serious appeal to your wardrobe. During spring 2010 fashion week, nude tones were everywhere on the runways. Bruno Pieters, Burberry Prorsum, Marc Jacobs and Valentino incorporated neutral tones into their collection. At first glance, neutral tones may be a little intimidating, but when paired the right way, this trend will command attention.

First, choose the right color that will compliment your skin, not wash you out. Paler skin tones should try darker neutrals like a soft copper, while darker complexions look great in light nude colors. Mixing and matching is key! Pair up nude tones with different neutral shades for a great spring/summer look.

For an off-white nude tone, Forever21 offers a zip front chiffon top that’s perfect for those summery nights.

Don’t just incorporate nudes into your clothing; try it with your shoes as well. Betsey Johnson has great nude-colored, open-toe pumps.

If you’re feeling fun and flirty, try this strapless dress by Camilla & Marc.

- Ivie Igbeare