Ricki Lake started it in 1986's Hairspray where she did "The Bug" in a pink and black cockroach dress, although today it has taken on a much edgier and cleaner look with the help of Lanvin's spring 2011 jewelry collection. It really is a step above the rest. The designs are beautifully crafted and completely astonishing, but perhaps too literal? Come on, Lanvin, use some of that creative license! Don't get me wrong - a house fly does have its appeals: that emerald sheen; those round deep, piercing, onyx eyes; its delicate touch and nature. And yes, I did make a fly just sound fabulous. And yes, I love how fashion is pushing the boundaries on what in fact is beautiful - I am so over the silver butterfly - cutesy rings that have been around for well, now, too long. Let us try something new, exotic, daring...
This is why I was so pleased when I walked into H&M and saw a whole mound (pun intended) of creepy crawlys, in all kinds of fashion forward jewel tones. The H&M ring pictured about would instantly turn a normal outfit into something to be envious of. And yes, I believe it is as simple as an accessory to turn a drab outfit into something great. Even the classy, sophisticated types like Tiffany & Co are on board with this trend: Peretti's scorpion necklace is to be warn with extreme styling caution. It is also refreshing to see the likes of Blake Lively wearing insects and bondage all in one hoot. Now, don't sit there and tell me you wouldn't harm a fly for that Lanvin leather band. I know I would.
Elie Saab is a self taught, Lebanese born designer who first became a fashion heavy weight in 2001, when Halle Berry wore a wine colored gown when she accepted her first Oscar. It was a bold choice for Berry, but it was received well. The Saab ball did not stop rolling. He has consistently turned out gorgeous ready to wear gowns. Year after year these gowns have graced the backs of the most beautiful celebrities and have done nothing but enhance their gorgeousness.
I am a big fan of color and because of that it makes it very easy for me to love Saab's designs. From the deepest black to the palest of nudes he seems to have covered the entire color wheel. I love the jewel tone of Lilly's 2006 Golden Globe gown; I am also dying to see the yellow strapless piece on the red carpet. Megan Fox would look absolutely glamorous wearing that design, instead of her usual sexpot look. Even if she is wearing the hautest haute couture she still looks like a stripper to me. Could it be her face? Nonetheless, Saab could fix, I am sure of it!
Colors aren't the only thing that Saab plays with. I love the necklines of his gowns. He doesn't limit himself to scoop, strapless, or sweetheart necklines, but instead expands on them. I especially love the two necklines we see from his last collection - the lavender/blue and red dresses have unique necklines - enhanced with sexy lace and playful ruffles.
Mr. Saab does not disappoint with his recent collection. He is still using color, but this time he chose soft steel blues, dove grays and olive greens. His dresses flow over a woman's body and fit to perfection. So, it makes perfect sense when we hear he wants women wearing his designs to look like a "goddess taking a walk during dawn under the dew". Now, really, who doesn't want to look like that?
