Getting a head start for Spring/Summer 2011

Holidays are almost finished and we will be going back to our busy lives once more. We are days into the end of this year and onto the next one. Tell me you're not excited about that. Just like everything else, fashion trends are changing once again. Some of you, if not all, maybe looking into a change of wardrobe. After all, a new year is a fresh start. Another chance for a new image. A better you. :-)

But before you start throwing the clothes in your wardrobe and buy half of the mall, what are the trends to follow for Spring/Summer 2011? What styles and pieces will be fashionable? Which trend or piece will be making its come back? In layman's terms, what clothes should I throw away and what should I keep in my closet? Too many questions with one simple answer, the Spring/Summer 2011 Trend Forecast.

The designers have already done the shows and by now, their collections, if not sold out, are undergoing production and marketing. And they are probably halfway through coming up with the Fall 2011 collection with the help of the trends.

 Now, trends are a fashion designer's best friend, but may be the enemy of a consumer. Inspiration is very very important but without the guide of the trends,  it may be useless. It basically tells the designers what's fashionable and what's not. For the consumers, it simply tells them what to wear and what not to wear.

So, what should you be caught wearing for the next season?

Spring/Summer 2011 Fashion Trends:

1. The glamour of the 70's is back.

Think bohemian and sophisticated glamour. Clean and voluminous silhouettes and earthy colors palette are the way to go. Belted, high-waist and wide legged pants, Bow blouses with billowing sleeves. Jumpsuits. Chic and sheer fabrics like satin and silk with metallic accents are advisable.

Koton's Spring/Summer 2011 collection is a very good example of the 70's sophistication:

2. Make way for the bikers.

You have to admit that the military trend is getting old, so it's just about time that we move on to the next one. And in this case, the bikers. Leather, leather, leather. That's all you need to know. You will be seeing a lot of leather pants, leather jackets,  and leather biker boots this season. I knew it. Now, I want that leather jacket more.

Burberry has made an entire collection inspired from the bikers. Delicioso.

3. Punks not dead

This is probably the most controversial trend of the season. One must possess a certain kind of confidence in order to make this trend work. It's different and out of the ordinary, and that's what makes it strong. However, it's what makes it vulnerable as well. Punk is the fine line between playing dress up and being rebellious. And you have to walk that fine line if you want to pull this off.

It has many elements but for this season, it is limited to three: Studs, heavy boots, and safety pins. These elements are quite easy to incorporate into your style. You don't have to actually wear something with these. I find accessories are easier to play with when it comes to punk. :-)

Photo courtesy of  tinysparklythings.blogspot.com

Studs at Balmain S/S 11

Heavy boots at Balmain S/S 11

4. It's 60's all over again

The 60's trend will carry on from this year to the next featuring full circle skirts and below-the-knee hemline dresses. Hips will be flaunted. Light and sheer fabrics in summer colors are advised. Pair that with kitten heels, red lips, cat's eye glasses, after-sex hair, and you're ready to go and conquer the world.

 Other Summer/Spring 2011 trends to go by:

1. Maxi + Sheer

Maxi dresses and skirts in sheer fabrics will be very much in fashion this season. They will be almost lingerie-like in very light summer colors to make it look and feel very comfortable.

Dolce and Gabbana Spring/Summer 2011

Dolce and Gabbana Spring/Summer 2011

2. Romance and Lace

Two of the many things that never go out of style: Romance and Lace. Lace has never left the trends. It is classic and timeless. But this season, we're giving lace a twist. Unique lace clothing will be fashionable this season.

Kate Bosworth in Burberry S/S 11
Photo courtesy of starandstyle.com

My girl, Leighton Meester, in Marchesa S/S 11
Photo courtesy of starandstyle.com

3. Bows out, Tassels in


2010 has been the year of the bows and zippers. And for next year, the tassels will be taking the spotlight. You will be seeing tassels everywhere, clothes, shoes, bags, and accessories. Get used to it. Or better yet, start looking for tassel-ed clothes and accessories.

Pucci S/S 11

Sonia Rykiel S/S 11

Diane Von Furstenberg S/S 11

4. Jingle your Bell Bottoms

Guess what's back? You'd probably think that this won't be making a comeback anytime sooner, since we're all  used to skinny jeans, leggings, jeggings, and the like. But, no. Bell bottoms, as a part of the 70's trend, will be seen in full swing next season. Most of you might be finding it odd and might not be brave enough to wear this. Some of you may even question yourself, can I really wear this outside the house without getting shot? Of course you can. Kidding aside, there are so many reasons why you should wear it. First, they're really very comfy. Second, you can pair it with anything. It's so versatile. You can play with it however you like to adapt to your style.

Opt for bell bottoms that literally ends in a bell-like shape. You can choose to wear a skinny pant but flares from the leg down to the hem in a bell shape, or a fitted one at mid-thigh then gradually flaring to form a straight cut to the hem. Wear either one of these, and I promise you'll be safe. Oh, don't forget to wear them high-waist, preferably belted.

Here's a more descriptive visual:

Derek Lam S/S 11
Photo courtesy of  fashionherald.org

ADAM S/S 11
Photo courtesy of fashionherald.org

5. A tail of the hem

No, they're definitely not for weddings anymore, because this season, tail hems will be all over the place. A tail hem is when the hem is longer at the back and short at the front. It's very similar to a wedding dress. Although, you wouldn't really want to walk in the streets with a dress that long. So, shorter ones than a wedding dress is advisable.

6. Stripped

Stripes have started to dominate women's closet since this winter season. I've been seeing a lot of collections that have stripes. But for the next season, nautical or sailor-like stripes will be very much fashionable, especially if they are in navy blue and white. One should take note that stripes should dominate the whole outfit. It should be the main course, and not just an appetizer. But, I wouldn't mind if it was dessert.

Kate Moss

Audrey Tatou as Coco Chanel in Coco Chanel
Photo courtesy of  vanillachymes.blogspot.com

Spring/Summer 2011 Accessory Trends:


1. It's raining cats

It will be raining cat sunglasses next summer. Prada has already started this trend last A/W 2010. But it will be making stronger reappearance in Spring/Summer 2011. It will definitely stand strong alongside the 70's trend.

Prada A/W 10

Tom Ford

Spring/Summer 2011 Shoe Trends:

With the comeback of the 70's, the shoes are sure to follow. Therefore this season, clogs and kitten heels will be fashionable next to the 70's trends. Pair your outfits with these lovely shoes and you're good to go.

Stella McCartney

Chanel

Chanel
Photo courtesy of lilisfashion.com

Now that you have everything you need for next season. Are you excited? We definitely have a lot of retro stuff going on, so to keep things cheap and practical, you can always raid your mom's or your grandma's closet for vintage but timeless pieces. ;-)

But whether you will buy or raid, I say just enjoy dressing up for this season. Have fun. And whatever you do or wear, never forget that your confidence will outshine any trendy item you have. And a smile is the best way to do that. Oh, and good posture too. ;-)


*All photos that have not been credited beforehand are courtesy of fashionising.com. This entry is also inspired from Fashionising.com's entry 'Spring 2011 fashion trends: Spring/Summer 2011'. Content has been taken and processed accordingly. No copyright infringement intended. For more information on this topic, please visit: http://www.fashionising.com/trends/b--spring-2011-fashion-trends-spring-summer-2011-4073.html*

Spotted at the Jashanmal Bookstore, Abu Dhabi Mall

Ksenia from Poland

Sheer Cardigan by Promod

In the midst of searching for Spring/Summer 2011 trend magazines in Jashanmal Bookstore in Abu Dhabi Mall a while ago, this lady caught my eye. Or well, her sheer cardigan definitely did. And let's not forget that floral brooch. I have a soft spot for quirky things like these! ;-)

It's good to know that someone is starting to prepare for next season. Sheer fabrics will definitely be in style. So, stock your closet with lots of them! :-)

Have a Merry Mazuona Christmas! :)

You guys, it's Christmas time! It's my favorite day of the year! Who would not love it? The gifts, the food, the smiles and laughter, being with your loved-ones, toffee nut lattes and hot chocolate, holiday clothes.. These are just few of the things why we love the Christmas season. But most especially, for us Catholics, the reason why we celebrate it is because it is the day that our Lord is born. :-)

So, I hope you guys will have a merry christmas with your loved ones! Wherever you are in this world, I wish that you are blessed with happiness, peace and love this Christmas. Don't forget to dress up and look your best. ;-) Christmas time is as any good time as any to play dress up. ;-)

Let's all have a Merry Mazuona Christmas! :-)

On another note, things have been rather quiet here at The Mazuona lately. I'm so sorry for the lack of updates. Things have been busy in the real world, and I've been sick for the past couple of weeks. But, no frets. The Mazuona will be back in full swing in time for the New Year. :-) Stay tuned!

A Few of My Favorite Things

A Few of My Favorite Things by themazuona on Polyvore.com

'Tis the season to be jolly (and fashionably crazy)!

It's December once more, and 12 more days before Christmas! It is indeed the month when our credit cards have been swiped more than the average number of times. It is a time to wear your most comfortable shoes to be able to score the cheapest finds in the sale fever. It is the time when Starbucks has Toffee Nut lattes and Peppermint Mocha frappucinos. But most of all, it is a time of giving.

Have you finished your Christmas shopping or are you just starting? I am actually not yet done. I still have to buy gifts for a few people. *Ssshh ;-)*

So in light of the season, The Mazuona will be featuring Holiday season-related posts starting this week up until the New Year's, starting off with my wishlist. ;-)

Every year since I was 13, I write a wish list of sorts a few months before Christmas time. This year, though, I would say that I haven't really thought about it. Usually, I would put the number of items based on my age. I'm nineteen now, therefore I should have 19 items on my wishlist.

It doesn't mean that I should receive all of them on Christmas day. In fact, I don't receive most of them on that day specifically. They're just wishes. And clues for my parents and other beloved, so they know what to buy me. ;-)

So, here it goes:

1. H&M leather jacket- I badly want one! It's a way for me to channel my inner Elena Gilbert. And don't you think I'd look badass? ;-)

2. ALDO Brogues- I've been obsessing with brogues lately. I was about to purchase one last weekend, but I backed out the last minute. I still felt like it was too manly for me. It was flat. And I wanted one with heels to add a feminine effect. But, I haven't found my perfect pair, which I think is this pair from ALDO. They don't have it her though. So, I'm still keeping my eyes open!

3. Oak Alexa by Mulberry- Okay. This is really a wish. I don't think I'd be getting this anytime soon. But, I really love it! I love the color and its size. It's very versatile, and it looks so sturdy!

4. Automatic eyeliner by CHANEL- It doesn't have to be Chanel. I actually like Maybelline's Define Liner or Revlon's. I've always loved automatic eyeliners, because they're easier to use than liquid ones. It would be as if you're just outlining. It cuts down your eyeliner time to two minutes. I recommend!

5. MAC Marcel Wanders lipstick in Catharina- Or the Gesina. I love them both. Catharina is more fuschia, while Gesina is more red. I would prefer the Venomous Villains collection, but they're limited and out of stock already.

6. Vogue Subscription- Carrie Bradshaw once said, "When I first moved to New York and I was totally broke, sometimes I bought Vogue instead of dinner. I found it fed me more."

My love for Vogue has nothing to do with what Carrie Bradshaw said. I've always loved Vogue. I probably always will. And underneath this wish for a Vogue subscription lies a dream. :-)

What are the things that are in your wishlist? Remember, no one's too old to make one. So, while we still have time, get on with it! :-) You can even do yours on Polyvore just like I did. It would be more fun and they have a wide variety of photos of items to choose from. So head over there to Polyvore.com now! :-)

Of stripes, hearts, and bows

(Oversized striped top by H&M, Ankle boots by Forever 21, Aviators by ALDO, Golden bow earrings by H&M
Grandmother's vintage necklace, Vintage bangles)

I fell in love with this top the first time I laid my eyes on it at that crazy sale in H&M a week back. My friends and I were just casually strolling around the mall in front of H&M when we realized that they were on sale, and so we darted inside. You'll  never guess how much this costs. I bought it for 9 DHS, which is roughly $2.45. *insert jaw-dropping here* I know. It's one of the things that I love about H&M.

It's quite a general rule in fashion that when one wears horizontal stripes, their width would increase. Funny, I don't feel and I don't think that I look big in this. Even my mom said so. She said that I looked thinner. Was it the stripes, or did I really lost weight? :-) I'd say it's the stripes! ;-)

I got these cute ankle boots for my birthday this year. It has a bow on one side, and that was what made me buy it. They actually don't have my size here in Abu Dhabi. They ran out of stock. So just imagine how glad I was when I found my size in Dubai and they were the last pair. The last pair. Can you imagine that? I don't know why I always seem to find myself in these situations. Haha. I don't know why, but I always tend to buy suede boots. Do you think leather is better? Let me know. :-)

The heart locket and the bangles have always been with me. The locket is actually a family heirloom. It was passed on to my little sister originally by my dearest grandmother. How it managed to land in my hands? Don't ask. Just know that I didn't steal it from her. :-) On the other hand, I bought these bangles about a year ago, and they kind of stuck with me along with the locket. They've become my signature pieces. You would rarely see me without them. :-) Check out the intricate details of the bangles! You'll fall in love!

This bag, which a lot of people call "the swing", is from Egypt. My dear aunt got it for me from Source when they visited Egypt earlier this year. I've always fantasized about having a bag that is exactly like this. It's funny because no one knew that I wanted one. I never told anyone. And during the time that I was looking for a bag that is sturdy and big enough to carry all my things, my aunt comes home with it. The beauty of it is that I didn't tell her a thing. She doesn't know that I was looking for a bag, let alone something like this. :-)

So now you know what I want for Christmas. This post might have just gave it away. ;-)


Photo courtesy of the little sister, thanks!

Tuesdays with Mazuonas: Spotted At the Dubai Mall

 The holidays are fast approaching, which means that the "Sale Fever" is in the air. Hence, the perfect time to go shopping. So last weekend, My family and I went to the Dubai Mall to do some serious shopping. And while posing in front of Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, I spotted this girl sitting on one of the benches overlooking the dancing fountains.

The first thing that caught my eye were her bare legs. It's not very rare to see women wear shorts in this country, you just don't see it everyday. In my case, at least. So, to see someone wear shorts without a care in the world is a refreshing sight. I wish I could do that from time to time. :-)

The next one I saw were her boots. I've been trying to get myself a black/dark gray pair like hers for a while now, but I can't seem to find the style that I really like. I really liked hers though. And I wish I was able to talk to her and ask her about it for a bit. We were quite in a hurry to get inside the mall, because the sun was getting too hot. So, if by any chance that this girl stumbles upon my blog, "Hi there. Please do contact me if you are this girl in the picture. I would love to ask you about your boots." :-)

There you go guys! I hope that I'll be able to update more often this week. It's been really really hectic lately with the holidays coming. I hope you're enjoying your time as we also count down to the end of the year. :-)

Oh, December.

Hey everyone!

Today is the UAE's National Day! I hope you all are doing great and enjoying your holidays. It is indeed a time for celebration and rest. We all need a short break from the hustle and bustle of this beautiful city. So, I wish you a great holiday and I hope that you enjoy it to the fullest! :-)

On the other hand, I know that I haven't been able to post consistently lately. I've just been so busy (and tired) that I don't have the time to blog much anymore. Believe me, this inconsistent hiatus is not because I'm burned out. In fact, I have a lot of things I want to blog about, and they are either in outline or in drafts. Yes, after that traumatic experience of being burned out, I am planning, outlining, and drafting my posts beforehand. I'll promise to make it up to you guys though.

So, what have I been up to lately? First, I have school. Our class is in the middle of creating our collection that will be showcased (allegedly and tentative) in next year's Bridal Show sometime in February. It's still not set in stone, but our Program Manager has informed us to prepare, because we might. Yikes. This is my first time, and I'm really hoping that it goes well.

Another thing that is really keeping me busy is work. I can't say much about this, because it's quite confidential. Don't worry, it's not something illegal. ;-) It's just the 'secrecy code' that is keeping me from telling you what exactly it is. But, it's going great and I'm really enjoying. Maybe, someday I can tell you. :-)

And tomorrow, I will have a trial shoot for a fashion designer friend who is going to launch her new collection. Again, I can't tell you about the details because for one, I do not know much myself and second, it is also confidential. I know. That sucks a bit. I really want to tell you. But one thing I can tell you is that it's going to be exciting. And I'm looking forward to it very much. :-)

I hope that, by next week, things will be somehow back to normal so I can start blogging like I used to. As for tomorrow's Tips-y Thursdays, I have something planned and outlined. If I have the time, I will post it. It should be fun, so you better watch out for it. :-)

The Christmas holidays for the catholics and christians is also just around the corner. Do you have a wish list? I usually have one written down. But, due to lack of time because I'm always on the go, I still haven't had the chance to write them. So, if you have, share them with me! I would love to see them! :-)

That's it for now guys. Enjoy your holidays! :-)

Do It Yourself

Sometime last week, I've stumbled upon this post reblogged by quite a few of my followers. I was amazed and tried to do my own version.

So, here's the inspiration:

Credits to Alexandra Lynne

Amazing, right? Later on, I found out that she used her dad's old shirt, hence the size. It's pretty easy to do actually. You see it and you get the concept of how she has done it. So, I encourage you guys to find your dad's old shirt and do your own version! Or better yet, you use your boyfriend's/husband's shirt. It will feel sexier (and let's not forget, sweet). :-) Wish I had one, I'd definitely ransack his closet a lot! :-)

And here's my (lame) attempt on the do-it-yourself shirt dress:

Yes, it's actually a top for me. I used my own shirt, that's why. Her bow is prettier too. And mine's, well, I don't know what that is. :-) The bow effect is not really seen, because the sleeves weren't long enough. *sigh But, I think it still looks good. And yes, I've bothered with makeup. I cringed at the memory of last week's Wardrobe Wednesdays. I will never be caught looking like that again. So yeah, I did a little makeup to cover up my tired and sleepy eyes, and of course, the bags. Hope it worked. ;-)

So there you go for this week's Wardrobe Wednesdays! Do you have any DIY suggestions? Share them with me and I'd try to do my own version of it. Or better yet, do it yourself and send a photo to me via email: themazuona@gmail.com You can even go as far as creating a tutorial video, so we can share them with others. :-)

Hope to hear from you soon! :-)

*On a side note, we did not have Tuesdays with Mazuonas this week, because I've been really busy. It's exams week, and work has been pretty hectic. I did not have the luxury we call 'free time'. Hence, I wasn't able to roam around the streets much. Hopefully, we'll have it back next week. Let's keep our fingers crossed!