Up, Up and Away!

Attendees of the Met's Costume Institute gala (clockwise from top left): Kate Bosworth in 1992 Chanel Haute Couture; Lake Bell in Balmain; Naomi Watts in Thierry Mugler; Caroline Trentini in 1984 Thierry Mugler.

A Wonder Woman costume worn by the original well-accessorized superheroine, played by Lynda Carter, from 1976.

From Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy at the Costume Institute of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Adam West as Batman, in the wonderful Batman TV series of the mid-to-late 60s.

Pow! Blam! Zow! Bang! The Metropolitan Museum of Art's Costume Institute has started a new trend faster than a speeding bullet. The museum's current exhibit, Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy, takes its inspiration from comic books, TV, movies and athletic wear. It is all about the body in motion and how fashion relates to movement and imagination, as seen through elaborate and iconic costuming and apparel.

Many top designers have copped to reading comics as youngins' (Mr. Giorgio Armani among them) and have let this influence creep in every season or so (spiderweb-like creations inspired by Your Friendly Neighborhood Spiderman and skintight, goth numbers ala Catwoman). As this exhibit shows past examples of fashion and fantasy, it has in turn inspired new looks playing on this very theme. From Topshop's glimmering lightning bolt skirt (very Storm of the X-Men) to Kova and T's latex skirts and leggings that scream Michelle Pfeiffer in Batman Returns, it is easier than ever this season to let your inner superhero soar. At any price.

Be bold. Be daring. And let fashion let you save the day.

American Apparel Shiny Bodysuit, $34.

Topshop Sequin Lightning Strike Skirt, approx. $108.93.

Clockwise from top left: Elsa Peretti small sterling silver Bone cuff, $650; Frank Gehry Torque bangle, $495; Frank Gehry Flux cuff, $850; Frank Gehry medium Torque bangle in sterling silver, $475 (all available at Tiffany).

Michelle Pfeiffer as Catwoman in 1992's Batman Returns.

Natasha Poly walking Balenciaga's F/W 2008 runway.

Linda Farrow for Luella Batman sunglasses, approx. $397.82 (Visit Linda Farrow for stockists).

Kova and T Latex High Waist Skirt, $209 (available at Shopbop); Kova and T Oxy Leggings, $110 (available at Tobi).

Photos courtesy of Features.ElleUK.com, Style.com, Flickr, Fabsugar, Samantha-I-am, BFI and The Fashion Spot.

S-E-X is Spelled S-H-O-E

Glenys Python Sandal, $1,550.

Gwyneth Paltrow in Cannes wearing Balmains back in May.

Julia Restoin-Roitfeld at a Cinema Society Screening this month, wearing Givenchy heels.

Bebe Venetian Zipper Strappy Sandal, $169.

Steve Madden Ginn ($199.95) and Maddiee ($109.95) styles.

Nine West Dasolina, $99.
Jeffrey Campbell Lala Heels, $94 (available at Lori's Shoes).

Analisa Heel by Marciano, $189.99 (available at Heels.com).

There is something seriously sexy going on south of the ankle this season. Equipped with the highest of high heels and zippers, straps, fringe, twists and ties, the best footwear out there right now has more than a little cheek--it's downright naughty.

Whether you can afford to splurge on skin and zipper Choos or your budget only allows Jeffrey Campbell's seriously fringed numbers to come home with you, let your shoes show off that dirty, dirty mind all their own.

Gwyneth photo courtesy of StyleItLess. Julia photo courtesy of From the Desk of Phyllis.

Still Feeling: The Fashion as Art (Or is it Art as Fashion?) Trend

Call me dated, but I'm still really diggin' Spring/Summer 2008's painterly trend. Maybe it's the Art History major in me or maybe it's because I'm a sucker for color, but this is a look I have plans to embrace for a while to come. I think these bold, bright pieces are pitch perfect for the remaining summer months and will even look fantastic paired with sweaters, tights and loony layers once temperatures drop. Once the weather becomes especially bleak, won't these sunny yellows and electric blues help to add a little cheer back into the equation?

Clockwise from top left: YSL Raspail Cascade-Print Tote, was $995, now $560 (available at Saks); Brushstroke Print Dress, approx. $99 (available at Topshop); Alexandra Cassaniti Brushstroke Pattern Tote Bag, $220 (available at AlexandraCassaniti.com); See by Chloe Color Block Dress, was $590, now $295; Alice + Olivia Applique Dress, was $396, now $277.20 (available at Shopbop).

The trend's Abstract Expressionist roots:

Robert Motherwell's Elegy to the Spanish Republic, No. 57 (1957-60)

Franz Kline's Untitled (1957)

Photos courtesy of Abstract-Art.com and SuitcasePaintings.com.

Do you Dare?

The now-famous Balenciaga black and white, knee-high gladiators.

MK and Ashley in knee-high styles, ready for battle the red carpet.

Clockwise from top left: Fierro High Leg Sandal, approx. $99; Hackle High Leg Fringe, approx. $49.54; Frisky Link Chain Sandal, approx. $81.16; Frisky Link Chain Sandal, approx. $81.16; Hackle High Leg Fringe, approx. $49.54.

Now that Topshop is offering knee-grazing gladiator styles that are more in the FB&F girls' (ahem) modest price range, will you dare to wear your sandals up the there? Strap up the ankles and calves in braided, woven leather and fringe? This look is certainly not for the faint of heart (or large of calf, for that matter), but is one that has carried on for almost a year at this point. One can argue that it is a trend that certainly has legs (sorry, I had to do it)...

Will you be giving this look a whirl? Or did you take the plunge already with designer versions?

Photos courtesy of Style.com and People.com.

Sun Block

Urban Outfitters Sweet Heart Sunglasses, $16.

Ray-Ban 'New Small Wayfarer' Sunglasses in blue/taupe, $109 (available at Nordstrom).

Ray-Ban 'Classic Wayfarer' Sunglasses in pink, $139 (available at Nordstrom).

This summer, its all in the eyes. Channel your inner-Lolita with these heart-shaped shades from Urban Outfitters. Ray-Bans are still h-o-t, but ditch the heavy black or stark white. Instead, try a soft shade of pink or go for a blue and beige two-toned pair. These will go better with S/S 2008's soft, dreamy patterns than last year's more graphic versions (and look less like a little-too-late Sienna Miller impression). Another major trend in sunglasses? Transparent. Splurge on Chloe's oversized Myrte style, or check out Forever 21 or Fred Flare for less expensive versions. Like a retro look? Cat-eye styles, popular in the 1950s and 60s, are back. Derek Lam favored this style for the season.

This season, the eye's have it.

Chloe Myrte Crystal Sunglasses, $290 (available at Net-a-Porter).

Forever 21 Cat-Eye Sunglasses (Style F0021), $5.80.

Enjoy Summer While You Can

According to style.com designers are favoring a monochromatic look for fall in hues such as gray, rust, white, blue, and orange.

Left to right: Halston, Celine, Bottega Veneta

While I'm sure FB&F will embrace this chic look come fall (I'm seeing a future post along the lines of "Easiest way to be stylish when dressing for work at 6am (after too many cocktails the night before)? Put on one color from head to toe and head out the door!), at the moment this post just reminds us to embrace summer dressing for the 88 days of summer left.

So think wisely when getting dressed and make sure you are taking advantage of all the fashion that summer allows us to wear: bright colors, loud patterns and prints (floral, ikat) on dresses and tunics, metallics and sequins, color-block and ombre, cute flats and flashy sandals, and contrasting colors (a la white jeans with jewel tone tops).

Here are a few choice pieces to remind you that part of what is great about summer dressing, besides the free-flowing dresses and freedom of flip-flops, is how easy it is to have fun with summer clothes!

Left to right: Myne top $161 at Shopbop, Issac Mizrahi for Target top $14.99, Old Navy top $29.50, Forever 21 halter $17.80

Left to right: Alive and Olivia $297 at Shopbop, Karen Zambos $99 at Nordstrom

Left to right: Gap jeans $41.99 at Gap, Fiji mini $59.99 at J. Crew, 3-Tone skirt $29.80 at Forever 21, Paige Premium Denim $169 at Shopbop

Left to right: Mossimo floral flats $19.99 at Target, Sam Edelman sandal $79 at Piperlime

Summer Blockbusters

Forget Hancock, Batman (though I am nerdily dying to see it), Iron Man, Hulk...basically any of the multitude of superhero movies on the way. The little summer dress is the true blockbuster of the season.

Look to these must-have frocks to get you through the next few sweltering months (thank you, global warming...ahem, "climate change") and beyond. Just add tights, long cardigans and scarves once the temp. begins to drop.

Pair this Forever 21 floral silk babydoll ($26.90) with a loose linen scarf in a pale shade (try dove gray or a very light beige) and a tall flat boot, wellie (for that British music festival look), or worn-in motorcycle boot to give this slip of a dress some weight.

This chic summer dress for day or evening by Totem ($179, available at Active Endeavors)would look great with a gladiator in brown or gold - your choice to go flat or opt for a stacked heel. Think about one great ring or bracelet, but otherwise, keep accessories to a minimum to let the dress speak for itself.

Remember these super sweet and delicate shifts by Tocca from back in the 90s? So do we. Well, thankfully for those of us who like to look a little innocent and uber-feminine from time to time, Tocca has relaunched these lovely, simple and slighty retro dresses from a decade ago under the name Tocca Vintage. In addition to my favorite, the Anna ($176, available at Tocca.com), there are three other styles in the collection: the strapless Cecilia, halter Kourtney and spaghetti strap Eva. Add a great headband and a brightly colored shoe and the look is complete.

It wouldn't be a dress story without addressing the LBD. I love this fuss-free, yet interesting, racerback style from Banana Republic ($118). Try a metallic strappy sandal or colorful patent or suede heels for night and for day, dress down with a pair of nude or black ballets or even just a pair of flip-flops.

In Wonderland

My muse this month? None other than the Adventuress of Wonderland, Miss Alice.

Alice's classic combination of blue, white and the sweetest of Mary-Janes is just right for spring and moving into the summer.

Topshop makes an updated version of Alice's LBD (Little Blue Dress), that's just a bit sleeker, but stays feminine with subtle pleats, bows and frills. Or pair their white sundress over a blue top as a modern-day pinafore. Top off with classic black Repettos and a black satin headband, but steer clear of the thick white tights, which are never flattering to the leg.

Dresses not your style? Slip on a pair of straight-leg white jeans, a blue top with just the right amount of puff, and try these faux-snake peep-toe ankle-strap flats in lieu of the traditional ballet slipper. Top off with a black silk ribbon tied around the waist (we need a bow somewhere!) and you are set to conquer any urban wonderland you might call your own.

I know I'm ready to jump down the rabbit hole. Are you next?


Topshop Silk Dress in Aqua, approx. $88.

Topshop Button Front Sun Dress, approx. $49.Full Tilt Satin Bow Headband, $4.99 (available at Tilly's).

Repetto Basic Ballet Flat, $210 (available at Bird).

Gap Puff-Sleeve Chambray Shirt, $49.50.

Snake Peeptoe, $28 (available at Urban Outfitters).

White Cropped Matchstick Jean, $85 (available at J. Crew).

Black Silk Satin Ribbon, starting at $3.98/yd (available at M&J Trimming).

Gone Native

Now, I'm not normally one for major beading, but I am embarking on a serious relationship with all things beaded this season. Well, not all things. I am loving the look of Native American beading on any and all accessories, from necklaces and bracelets to stylish and simple loafers.

There is something slightly boho, one part summer camp and somehow a perfect balance between tough and delicate in these tribally-inspired pieces. Whether it is a campy classic moccasin or a shoulder grazing earring, these little touches of interest and color will add that much-needed something extra to your summer look.

It's time to go native!

Seed Beaded Leather Belt, $34 (available at Urban Outfitters).

Minnetonka Thunderbird Smooth Leather Boat Sole Moccasin, $40.95 (available at The Moccasin Shop).

Left to right: Morningstar Fringe Necklace, $38; Pyramid Lake Earrings, $18; Indian Summer Chandeliers, $28 (all available at Urban Outfitters).

Abaete for Payless Yative Sandal, $30 (available at Payless).

Chan Luu Indian Bead Stretch Bracelet, $45 (available at Intermix).

The Rainbow Brigade

No longer drowning in a sea of bootleg jeans, we now can choose from trouser-style, super wide legs, straight leg, cropped, skinny, even skinnier...the list goes on and on. With so many shapes on the market, it's not surprising that denim designs have started to play with color as well. It's not a matter of rinse today but a matter of what shade of the rainbow you prefer. Whether it's a soft shade of pink or a shockingly bright shade of yellow, now is the time to put indigo aside and embrace the Rainbow Brite within you.

Dittos the Classic in Rose, $158 (available at Pink Mascara).

Urban Skinny Jean in Purple, $19.80 (available at Forever 21).

Morgan Low-Rise Skinny Jean in Blue, $48.50 (available at Delia's).

Rich & Skinny Sleek Skinny Jean in Aloe, $156 (available at Pink Mascara).

Bright Skinny Jean in Lemon Ice, $39.50 (available at Wet Seal).

L.A.M.B. Stovepipe Stretch Jean in Electric Red, $175 (available at Nordstrom).

Sink or Swim?

Bathing suit season is officially open us. This can be traumatic, not only because you might not have done as many lunges and squats this winter as you promised yourself you would, but also because lately swimsuits have become a luxury item costing upwards of $100 even at retailers like J. Crew!

Well we here at FB&F think swimsuit shopping is painful enough without having to break the bank, so whether you are a one-piece or two-piece girl (one-piece thank you very much!) we have found a few options that might make finding a swimsuit that's perfect for you more bearable this spring.

From left: Dot Bikini (avail. in two colors) $44 at American Eagle, Basic Bikini (avail. in many colors and patterns) $24.99 at Old Navy, O'Neill Bikini $88 at Pac Sun

From left: Strapless Colorblock Suit (avail. in many colors) $36 at American Apparel, Basic One piece (avail. in many colors) $38 at American Apparel, Basic One piece (avail. in many colors) $19.50 at Old Navy

The Jelly's Jam

One of my favorite looks from growing up is having a major comeback this spring. Though this trend has been popping up here and there for the past few years, it is back in a bag way for 2008. The trend I am speaking of? Why, jellies of course! Those lovely, brightly colored gummy rubber shoes we all loved as little girls.

Setting these latest incarnations apart? Major labels, first off. Both Givenchy and Marc Jacobs currently have styles on the market, each retailing for under $200. This makes jellies a great way to afford shoes by your favorite designers, when their wares usually carry price tags closer to $700. Nearly $200 still sounding cheap? Below find some options for nearly half the price!

The most popular styles this season are the gladiator, both flat and with a slight wedge, the ballet flat and even slingback kitten heels! Whether you need a sandal for trekking through the city or a heel for a beach party, jellies can take you there.

Another plus? These little numbers are totally weatherproof, making them chic warm-weather rain gear. We love our wellies, but when it gets hot, just think jellies!

Givenchy Jelly Gladiator, $165--in white (not shown), pink or black (available at Barney's).

Old Navy Ankle-Strap Gladiator Jelly Sandals, $19.50.

Marc Jacobs Jelly Mouse Shoes, $160 (available at Net-a-Porter).

J. Crew Jelly Ballet Flats, $45--in deep yellow, alpine green, bright red and black (not shown).

J. Crew Jeweled Jelly Ballet Flats, $59.50.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Glitter Slingbacks, $149--in copper (not shown), red, transparent (not shown) and grey (available at Zappos).

One Shoe, Five Ways

Nine West Jobilyn in Silver, $79

When purchasing footwear or embracing a new trend, there are a lot of factors to consider. Can I really afford this? Will this blend well with everything else I have hanging in my closet? Will I wear this more than once? Well, I can't help with your bank balance, but I can provide some advice on how to pick up on one of the season's hottest trends and ensure that you'll be able to actually wear it.

Gladiator sandals have been seen all over runways, on starlets from coast to coast, and in every price range. My favorites so far? The Jobilyn by Nine West. I love the hippie meets disco queen silver version and think a little metallic never hurt anyone.

Whether your personal style skews runway-ready, dressy, menswear-inspired, retro or casual, I've got you covered with affordable ways to sport these gladiators out on the town.

NOSTALGIC

Juicy Couture Long Printed Dress, $248 (available at JuicyCouture.com).

Feather Hinge Bracelet, $24 (available at Urban Outfitters).

RUNWAY

Balenciaga, Spring/Summer 2008

Frill Detail Tea Dress, approx. $89 (available at Topshop).

CASUAL

Julia Stripe Shirt, $32.50 (available at dELiA's).

High Waist Shorts, $22.90 (available at Forever 21).

Gryson for Target Zip Tape Satchel, $39.99 (available at Target).

MASCULINE

Boating Stripe Blazer, approx. $118 (available at Topshop).

Laquette Butterfoil Tank, $58 (available at Intuition).

Cheap Monday The Tight Jean, $65 (available at Karmaloop).

Roll Up Bowler, $28 (available at Urban Outfitters).

DRESSY

Calypso Christiane Celle Kimberly Dress, $250.

Tasha Leather Flower Headband, $78 (available at Nordstrom).

Kotur Elongated Shiny Silver Clutch, $348 (available at Vivre).

Binge vs. Budget: Stars and Stripes Forever

We have Kate Moss to thank for the stars and stripes trend this summer. First she modeled the YSL star necklace in the designer's recent ads, and then she included a star print shirt (guaranteed to sell out soon) and a striped dress for her second Top Shop collection. So make sure to get in on the trend by picking up a dress for the summer featuring either stars or stripes.

Budget (in addition to the Top Shop pieces if you can get them):

Hot Kiss $46

Binge (in addition to the YSL necklace if you can get it):

Lacey Parker $285 at Intermix

Binge vs. Budget: White for Night

As the temperatures start to rise and the tanning or lathering on of self-tanner begins once again, there is nothing better than a LWD (Little White Dress) in place of that LBD. Nothing looks fresher and crisper for spring than a bright white frock and there is nothing that sets off a tan better.

Whether it's embellished with beading around the neckline or gone graphic with hints of black, these white dresses will be pitch perfect for any spring soiree. White looks great paired with metallic accessories, especially silvers and gunmetals or with neons and primary shades, so now is the time to break out those pink pumps!

For less dressy occasions, think about opting for a pair of white jeans. White jeans look summer-ready and polished with navy, whether it's a boatneck top, tank or something a little dressier for a nice dinner out.

White accessories can also be fun for evening--just maybe rethink that dive bar when grabbing that white clutch, or even better, select one of these easy-to-clean white patent pieces. Laces and studs help make these plain white purses and shoes a little more eye-catching.

Put those black dresses and that dark denim aside--these next six months are all about white.

DRESSES

Beaded Neckline:

Karta White Jewel Patch V Neck Dress, $335 (available at Singer 22)

Jacinda Shift Dress, $34.80 (available at Forever 21)

White and Black:Pink Tartan Diana Graphic Dress, $425 (available at Saks)

Kimchi & Blue Applique Frock, $78 (available at Urban Outfitters)

JEANSJ Brand Low-Rise Cigarette Jean in White, $158.

Morgan Low-Rise Skinny Colored Denim, $44.50 (available at Delia's)

ACCESSORIES

Laced-up Patent:

From left: Gucci Corset Mid-Heel Slide, $635 (available at Bergdorf Goodman); Nine West Roedy, $79.

Patent and Studs:

From left: Marc Jacobs Rocker Fergie, $895 (available at Shoptwigs.com); BCandy Paris, $58 (available at Steve Madden).

Scuba Dooby Doo

AKA New York Racer Back Shift Dress, was $389, now $116.70.

Even if you aren't scuba certified, this deep sea inspired trend is worth the plunge. That being said, this look is certainly not for the faint of heart, with its bright colors, tight, body conscious fits and more than a whisper of 80s nostalgia (remember Body Glove? They're back: www.bodyglove.com). Ground these body-hugging dresses with a simple heel in a black or nude shade and keep any other accessories to a bare minimum (flashy bags and piles of jewelry are big no-no's).










Body Con Mini Skirt, approx. $44; Curved Mini Body Con Skirt, approx. $44 (available at Topshop).

When donning one of these slim, bold skirts think simple as well. Plain white tees, easy tanks and a flat sandal will make these skirts seem breezy and casual, not over the top.

Below: