Young fashion designers who are new on the scene often have the freshest, most exciting ideas about what we should be wearing. Their runway collections are often full of unique, wearable pieces that translate easily from the catwalk to the street. Here are the top five young and upcoming fashion designers you should be shopping for!

1. Dion Lee

Dion Lee hails from Australia, where he creates sculptural, edgy pieces for fashion’s coolest girls. His latest collection featured an architectural take on spring. A simple color palette of black, white, and shades of blue and lavender created the backdrop for intricately sculpted dresses, classy belly-baring tops, and separates cool enough to go from work to play. Choose leather-trimmed shift dresses for an edgy take on office wear or go bold in a precisely cut crop-top under a razor-sharp leather jacket for an evening out.

2. Bellavance

This new label, helmed by recent Parsons graduates Nolan Ballavance and Ava Hama, is a dream come true for high-end hipsters looking to professionalize their style. Their debut collection was rife with quirky separates just waiting to spice up your day-to-night look. Think a long-sleeved satin tunic that pairs equally well with work trousers and pumps as it does with skinny jeans and high-heeled boots, an ankle-length fur coat that rivals your best Williamsburg vintage finds, a long-sleeved red dress that would make for a huge statement at your next event.

3. Guilietta

Sofia Sizzi’s new line showcases her Italian roots in a way that is very New York. For Fall 2013, she showed a rich color palette with deep reds, browns, and blacks. Swingy floor length skirts, floppy hats, and richly draped tunics layered over turtlenecks bring seventies silhouettes into the modern day. Stand-out pieces for the girl-about-town include: a box-pleated mini in a chic diamond printed fabric, a dove-grey floor-length gown with a deep v-neck and a sequined pattern that echoed the recurring diamond motif and a yellow/black color-blocked dress layered over a black turtleneck.

4. Veronica Bear

This three-year-old label, run by a sister-in-law duo (both are named Veronica) is delightfully feminine with hints of well-executed menswear. Think suit jackets supremely tailored to the female figure, big fur vests layered over psychedelically printed skirts and dresses, and nubby tweeds and knits to anchor it all down. The evening looks are decidedly flirtatious, while the jackets are tailored to perfection. Surprising details, like raw-edged seaming on a purple dress or black piping on a blazer, lend the label its quirky charm.

5. Assembly

CFDA finalist and Assembly designer Greg Armas delivered a madcap interpretation of the work vs. play dynamic in his latest collection. Slouchy sweatshirts paired with slim green trousers and oversized scarves are great for a weekend shopping excursion, while a black satin jumper (worn with a big, quirky necklace) would look great at the office.

Author Bio

Haley is a freelance blogger with an intense passion for fashion. For the latest fashion news and advice, visit www.trendnstylez.com.

Whether you’re headed to Fashion Week as a reporter, blogger or just to get a head-start on your spring wardrobe, there are some necessities and “emergency kit” items anyone would need for a week full of fashion shows. Here are our essential picks for New York Fashion Week veterans and newbies.

Camera

Needless to say, Fashion Week is a feast for the eyes. Beautiful clothes, styles and people will be overflowing from the runway. Having a good digital camera on hand is a must. Several fashion industry celebrity bloggers told Harper’s Bazaar that a camera is among their top three Fashion Week essentials.

Notebook

You’ll need to take notes and sketches to keep track of the shows, celebrities and designs. Many new designers are debuting this year. Venus Williams will be at Fashion Week fresh from the Olympics to show her new athletic-wear line, EleVen. Katie Holmes will also be debuting a new line, Holmes & Yang. Taking good notes will keep everything straight for your blogs and tweets.

Comfortable Shoes

Two things Fashion Week has a lot of: models and walking. Of course you don’t want to sacrifice style at these events, but staying comfortable will get you through those long hours of fashion. With numerous shows taking place all day, a good pair of shoes or sandals will save you a lot of pain and stress.

Coffee

Chances are you won’t be getting much sleep this week. With non-stop runway shows and fabulous parties by this year’s official sponsor, SKYY Vodka, there will be too much to do. Equipping yourself with a strong cup of coffee might be a lifesaver. Good thing there is a Starbucks on practically every corner in New York.

Schedule

With sometimes 15 shows a day, it’s important to know which ones are a priority to you and what times they start because, realistically, you will not be able to see them all. Make a schedule. This Spring 2013 Fashion Week is also hosting the 9th annual Style Awards at the Lincoln Center. This is the first time the awards will be broadcast in primetime on the Style Network on September 13.

Music and Books

Having something to do during downtime is a good idea. Keep your iPod or a favorite book handy. Anything to keep you occupied and help alleviate any stress. Remember, there are large amounts of people at every turn. According to Vogue, jewelry designer, Eddie Borgo, lists, “Edie: American Girl” by Jean Stein and George Plimpton as his Fashion Week read. Designer Prabal Gurung said, “Nothing like a great song to serve as a mental break from pre-show prep.”

Keeping these necessities on hand will help you look like a pro at this year’s Mercedez-Benz New York Fashion Week. You should be worry-free (for the most part) and able to enjoy the fashion, celebrities and events while expressing and celebrating your own style and originality. Like fashion blogger Garance Doré told Harper’s Bazaar, “Everybody should feel free to experiment, especially during fashion week. It’s a celebration of creativity!”

Yesterday’s much anticipated Alexander Wang fall 2011 ready-to-wear collection at New York Fashion Week came just a day after the designer won the GQ prize for best new menswear in America. At the womenswear show, a slew of dewy faced no-nonsense models were the embodiment of casual chic as they stomped out Wang’s vision of fusion sportswear. By exaggerating and deconstructing traditional elements of formal dress such as tuxedo jackets, cummerbunds and bib dress shirts and then going on to layer them with foreign elements such as fur trim and billowing poncho cuts, Wang gave a decadent yet rebellious and wonderfully wearable take on formal wear. The calculated use of silks, sheers, furs and knits created depth throughout the collection and the limited colour palette of camel, shades of grey and black re-established a sense of classicism. Workable zippers and loose streamers rendered garments transient, adding volume and movement to even the most simple pieces. The cherry on top were Wang’s tongue in cheek accessories, which included fur lined goggles (a take on bunny earmuffs and eye protection all in one?) and dainty metallic heeled slippers.

Alexander Wang’s fall collection was a refreshing burst of juxtapositions in the safe bubble of ready-to-wear; hard and soft, masculine and feminine, old and new. Redefining what it means to be elegant and feminine, Wang once again reminded us of the beauty in both tradition as  well as the unexpected. With clothes like this, even the most summer happy fashionistas will be looking forward to channeling their inner Earharts this fall!

Author’s Bio

Kaja Jorgensen is a partner in The Traum Groupe, a Toronto based graphic communications agency with an emphasis on fashion and visual storytelling. She studied fashion communication at Ryerson’s School of Fashion.

All three of these official couture fashion houses have sent out the same message, but in their own way. The message being,” time to show off some curves ladies.” But why are these prestigious fashion houses taking this turn?  What does it mean to the sloppy form that women have become accustomed to over the past four years?  This simple definition (can answer that), Fashion,” A taste shared by many for a short period of time “as stated by Webster’s Dictionary 1988 edition sums up those questions.  To stay fresh designers always have to embrace change and know it is vital to their success. So naturally trends come and go and “everything old is new again”.  However, women do not have to be a slave to fashion and only dress as the couture houses dictate to the world as if they are saying, “this is how I want you to look this season.” There still needs to be a sense of what actually looks flattering and great on the variety of female forms. In addition, one should not take the art work produced by the fashion house too much to heart, or misinterpret the skinny model walking down the runway. Rather, admire this season and find away to incorporate the colours, texture, or fabrications to your own style. Within the realm of what flatters you, the wearer that is my advice. It is about being true to your style, and not a slave to fashion.  Trends come and go but there is always a way to make that billowy top look fresh, new, and authentic to your persona.

Author’s Bio

Andy Jones (formally known as Andrew McDonald) is a young Fashion Entrepreneur with dreams & the endless drive to make them come true! He has a formal background in Fashion Design from Marvel College in Edmonton, Alberta. He then moved to Toronto, Ontario to pursue his career in Fashion Business at George Brown College, and to grow as a true artist in the realm of Fashion. You can follow Andy on twitter.

Hot New Colours

Bright orange and chartreuse, not necessarily together, are the hot colours for spring. While chartreuse has been a popular colour for fashion lures year in and year out, it doesn’t always do so well on the runway. This unusual tone of green includes some yellow undertones, and mixes well with other golden colours. Although chartreuse is a fairly specific shade, all orange seems to be popular this year as long as it’s bright. Choose from pumpkin, persimmon, and mango for a high-energy look. Neutrals such as sand, ivory, and camel were also featured prominently in several shows paired with the darkest-black accents.

See Less, Wear More

It seems that the barely-there look may be a thing of the past. The high-waisted, wide-legged trouser is back along with longer hemlines. The runways have skipped the recently-popular micros and minis for knee-length, full skirts.

Comfort is In!

If you love the idea of lounging around all day in your PJs, you’re in luck! This year, many designers included a variety of pajama-inspired components in their spring line. From silky, slouched trousers to outfits that looked exactly like your favourite bedroom attire, you’ll definitely be comfortable and at the height of fashion this spring.

Florals are Always Perfect for Spring

If floral-wear always makes you think of spring, you’re in for a treat. Stylish floral patterns were prominently featured in spring dresses and casual shorts this year. Whether you use florals as an overall look or just to highlight your ensemble, you’ll look fresh and trendy.

Biker Jackets and Trenches

For women who can’t bring themselves to don floral patterns or bright-orange fashions, the designers had something special in mind! A variety of biker-inspired jackets and trench dresses added functionality and a masculine touch to the runway this year. Either of these styles is perfect for a cold spring day or a cool summer night.

Leather for Spring

Designers included plenty of leather this spring. If you love black leather, you’ll be able to find it, but most new lines concentrated on coloured leathers to lighten up this fashion trend. This spring, choose from jackets, pants, or even dresses made entirely of this durable material for an addition to your wardrobe collection. Make sure you love your choice! Leather clothing seems to last forever.

Fashion trends become more and more progressive, and then seem to cycle back around. Whether you choose to study to become a professional fashion designer, or just appreciate the art from afar – everyone has a certain taste in clothing. Whether you prefer something light, romantic, or a little masculine, the New York Fashion Week had wearable styles for everyone! Although you’re sure to see these trends in your local department stores, hip fashionistas will continue to watch future fashion weeks in exciting cities like London, Paris, and Milan for more!

Author’s Bio

Jayson Jones is an art student with a focus in Fashion Design. He’s an amateur blogger, and you can find his work at http://www.catwalkcatfight.com/, or follow him on Twitter @jaysonjonez.

The only problem that gets in the way is the price.  We could easily find hundreds or even thousands of dollars in clothes to finally update our wardrobe, but the cost in doing so can leave us broke.  So, the only solution is to find these clothes at a cheaper price.  How can you do that? Continue reading below to find out!

Outlet shopping: The only malls that I consider are outlet malls.  When you compare the prices to regular malls, they are much, much cheaper!  Certain stores like Banana Republic can be three times the price at a regular mall.  So, even if you have to make a day trip to your nearest outlet mall, it’s definitely worth it!  Not to mention, if you compare stores like Coach to their website online, they are way more as well.  So, skip regular malls and online shopping. Instead, shop outlet!

Seasonal shopping: I also like to shop for my winter clothes in the early spring when they’re on clearance.  This goes for summer shopping in the late fall as well.  Shop the opposite season, and you’ll be able to snag the best deals.  This is also highly recommended if you’re looking for a nice coat for next year.  Stores like Lord and Taylor are great for shopping this way!

Coupons: There are several coupon websites online that are willing to help you find the best coupons for each store.  Spending up to a half an hour looking may seem like a long time, but it could save you hundreds, so I think it’s worth it!

Salvation Army: Although The Salvation Army doesn’t appeal to many, you need to check it out before you knock it.  There are several name brand clothes lying on the racks, and some of them still have tags on them!  If it’s too worn obviously skip it, but if it’s in mint condition and it’s your favourite brand, why wouldn’t you consider it?  Just run it through the wash and you can let everyone else think you’ve spent a good amount on it.

There are several ways to find your favourite name brand clothes for less.  You should never have to pay full price for anything.  What you want will eventually go on sale; sometimes it just takes patience or a few of these tips to get that good price!

Author’s Bio

This is a guest post written by Mindy Clairbel.  Mindy runs MyCCFinder, a website that offers several Discount Codes, promo codes, and hot deals on just about everything.

Why Designer Shoes?

Of course we’re all trying to be money-conscious these days. None of us wants to spend any more than we have to on anything. Are designer shoes really worth the extra money that you spend? Most women have more than one pair of shoes. After all, there are so many occasions that call for different types of shoes that one or two pairs never suffice. Your entire collection doesn’t have to consist of designer shoes, but having at least one pair of beautiful designer shoes from one of the big-name designers is a must. Designer shoes hold up better than some of the cheaper brands and they are made to capture attention and bring out the best in any outfit.

Looking for Designer Shoes? Think Italian

Some of the Italian designers create some of the quintessential designer shoe collections. Companies, like Gucci and Prada are among the leaders in putting out exquisite shoes that not only look good, but are constructed from the highest quality materials. If you haven’t yet dipped your toes into the water in regards to buying your first pair of designer shoes, you can’t go wrong with either of these companies. Of course, there are design companies all over the world that create wonderful pieces of footwear, but starting with a brand like Gucci or Prada, is a great place to start. Add some elegance to your shoe collection with a brilliant pair of designer shoes today. You won’t believe how great you’ll look and feel in a pair of high-end designer shoes.

For example, for basic casual fashion, you will definitely want to check out the t-shirts and casual dresses made by Ashley Rowe. Their splatter pattern is distinctive thanks to the three day process used to make each garment. The Toronto based designer uses cottons and blended fabrics for the pieces, ensuring a comfortable wearing experience.

Another designer to check out for bold patterns and designs is Zoran Dobric. Having received national recognition and starring roles at the Toronto fashion week, Dobric’s geometric prints and patterns can really make your closet stand out from the international fluttering ruffle fetish that is taking over the mid-range mall stores. You will be able to cut a very distinctive and very Canadian figure in Dobric’s clothes.

For loungewear and sportswear, Steven Sal Debus has also recently re-launched the Modrobes brand. Though its former forte was tracksuits, the new brand focuses on eco-friendly sportswear and riding coats for cyclists. You will find environmentally conscious materials and the chance to explore the great outdoors in materials sourced from around Canada.

Being fashionable in Canada doesn’t mean that you need to neglect supporting local designers. Their work can bring remarkable flair and versatility into your closet. You will also have pride that your clothes aren’t off the rack numbers available anywhere in the designer world, but only through the best style houses of Canada!