Watercolor Rose

/ Topshop top and skirt / Zara heels and purse / DIY sunglasses /

Lately, it's a pretty rare occasion where I come across a garment that stops me and I automatically need to have it. Even rarer, is that it is in a reasonably affordable price range. I have been working on trying to add in a few special pieces into my wardrobe, regardless of their wearability, and this skirt from Topshop had all of the qualities I was looking for. Feminine, dainty, and unique in design, it is one of the pieces that has the power of making you feel a bit prettier just by putting it on. Bonus points, it reminds me of Katie Rodger's Dior illustration on Paper Fashion!

Have you seen any of these special pieces lately? I'd love to see.

Dress Up

Last week, I was in the fashion section of the library picking up research for a project. I noticed that for every book I would pick up for the assignment, I would be just as infatuated with the hundred others that surrounded it. So, when I finally narrowed it down to a few books for my assignment, I couldn't help but resist checking out piece on one of my favorites from this post-- on Christian Dior. This week, the dress is one that is most likely never going to find itself in my closet. This Fall 2012 RTW from Christian Dior, though in a bold choice of pink, is not at all intrusive. The way that the pleats fall softly and create a whispy effect, and the high necked intricate top with long sleeves are all qualities about it that are what make this dress amazing aside from the color. Often to me, a Dior piece is the epitome of femininity and poise, and this dress is nothing short of.

A to Z: Haute Couture

Christian Dior Fall 2008 Couture

While many boutiques and brands refer to themselves and their products as 'couture', actual classification of couture garments and fashion houses is much more in-depth than fashion lovers may assume. Typically, haute couture is made-to-measure and of the finest materials by the most skilled seamstresses and tailors. In order for fashion houses to be honored with the title of haute couture, it must first be inspected by the Chambre de commerce et d'industrie de Paris in Paris, France. Some fashion houses that currently hold the title of haute couture are Christian Dior, Givenchy, Chanel, Eli Saab, Valentino etc. Here are some of my personal favorites.

Valentino Fall 2012 Couture 

Elie Saab Fall 2009 Couture

Christian Dior Fall 2008 Couture

All photos from Style.com