Cutting-edge fashion design comes in many forms and styles; for Alberta Ferretti (video highlights here) the message is clear: Femininity is powerful. The looks embraced the businesswoman tycoon, the chic bourgeoisie who favors a clean silhouette, and the edgier lady who is not afraid to defy conventions.

How can anyone not love the Ferretti woman? She’s everything currently going on in fashion (all the major trends), yet still manages to be original. From the sleek cuts of the outerwear to the great little dresses and suits to the statement fur pieces, this gal is in control.

Direct Link: http://youtu.be/3KBuyfguxb8

The collection presentation began with delicate, sheer fabric pieces (intricately worked marvels) then moved on to more classic ensembles (with strong menswear nods) and finished with jewel-toned statement pieces (great woolens and furs). The bursts of fuchsia, sapphire and vermillion enlivened the collection’s mood, which reads a bit somber at first glance.

The fur pieces told her trend-savvy story to perfection, from little trims and accessories to bold pieces. The purple sapphire dyed-mink coat is brilliant in both its visual impact and restraint. The chubby vest hybrids in silver fox are certainly making their mark as well.

This collection is joy for the eyes for any one who likes well-thought-out fashion. Not only is this wardrobe classic, it is exciting just the same. Wow!

Donna Summer was the voice for a special time and place, and she really was THE Disco Queen for so many generations of people who loved to let loose and dance the night away. A  four-time Grammy Award winner with 34 album titles to her name, Donna will always remain an extremely important link in the fabric of music and cultural history.

Some of her most memorable hits included:

Love To Love You Baby (1975)

Could It Be Magic (1976)

Try Me I Know We Can Make It (1976)

Spring Affair (1976)

I Feel Love (1977)

Last Dance (1978)

Mac Arthur Park (1978)

Hot Stuff (1979)

Bad Girls (1979)

Dim All The Lights (1979)

On the Radio (1979)

Love is In Control(Finger on The Trigger) (1982)

She Works Hard For The Money (1983)

 This Time I Know It’s For Real (1989)

Donna Summer's bad girls album cover from 1979

We loved Donna Summer’s crystal clear, sultry voice, her infectious energy and the sense of freedom and fun that she emoted through her lyrics. For us (and we are avowed disco kids) she is and always will be our Dancing Queen. Rest in Peace Donna – you are gone today, but will never be forgotten through the gift of music that you shared with the world. Thank you, thank you, thank you! In the infamous words of Donna, “Now let’s dance baby, come on baby, let’s dance tonight”!

Donna Summer from 1970.

Donna, in her heyday, in all her sultry glory commanded attention on and off stage.

Donna Summer oozed sex appeal.

Colorful and full of energy, Donna Summer's lyrics made you forget the problems of the world and just dance.

Donna Summer is iconic.

Donna's music will live on forever.

Donna Summer still performed her much loved hits right up until the very end.

Donna always gave everything she had when she performed.

Donna Summer. Dead at the age of 63.

Oh Donna, sweet Donna…..without you will we ever solve the mystery of who left that cake out in the rain????

Out of the fur pantheon, shearling is by far the oldest fashion trend that never falls out of favor. Don’t think so? Just go check out prehistoric cave paintings with their references to animal pelts worn on human shapes, or even 19th century North American trappers donned in buck skins and other pelts.

"Fur Trapper", Alfred Jacob Miller, 1837

Salvatore Ferragamo - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Burberry Prorsum Shearling Funnel Neck Aviator Jacket

Shearling might simply be the most democratic fur of all, the one type that defies generational differences and socio-economic divides. From “easy-going” to “hippy chic” to ultra-modern, shearling is making its mark for the Fall 2012 fashion cycle.

Vivienne Tam - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Rick Owens - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Versace - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Bottega Veneta - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Whereas shearling was often used in a cruder finish in 1970s fashion, recently it has gotten the glam reboot. Designers are currently toying with both the woolen side and the leather/sueded side of the skins to great effect on the runways.

Paul McCartney and George Harrison take a stroll through the park in ’67 dressed to the hilt. A caped Paul over a wide print tie, George comfortably in embroidered shearling, they embodied the magic of the Mystery Tour

Helmut Lang - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Peachoo Krejberg - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

The leather side of the pelt is currently reworked into a full-fledged design component, now getting as much attention as the fur side. Some designers and couturiers opt to lacquer the leather, or even shave it into a textile-thin finish. Others go as far as merging two skins in one garment – combining mink with lamb leather, for example, for a truly unique and highly fashionable look.

DKNY - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Miharayasuhiro - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Brandon Sun - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Ermenegildo Zegna - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Jean Paul Gaultier - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Shearling can be so much fun and really transcends expectations. Remember those UGG boots – the ones nearly banned by the West Hollywood City Council? They have become the shearling accessory icon, but don’t tell WeHo City Council (Can we say RIDICULOUS?). Very few materials can boast equal adoration from male and female fans alike, regardless of age.

The iconic UGG boots

Is there a shearling look in store for you this fall?

To say “What’s old is new again!” is an understatement when it comes to the current peplum craze in fashion.

the Peplum trend since New York Fashion Week (the Icon Concierge)

For those who don’t yet know what a peplum is, it could be described as a waist-hip short skirt, something that slightly flares out from a tight jacket or dress. In Ancient Greece, where the detail originated, the peplum was actually an over fold of fabric created by belting a chiton or peplos.

Caryatid statues at the Erechteion, Acropolis, Greece

Leave it to the Ancients to influence the latest collections! Of course, fashion being fashion, the peplum is getting the multi-interdisciplinary revamp. You could look at it as a Platonic exercise in abstraction ­– something en par with Plato‘s cave and fire abstraction… in our case, what is a Peplum? What makes it a Peplum?

"Plato's Allegory of the cave" by Jan Saenredam, after Cornelis Cornelisz van Haarlem, (1604)

Sharon Wauchob - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Sacai - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Philipp Plein - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Marni - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

From color blocking to embellishments, various details and effects give illusions to the peplum, whether direct or indirect. Let’s admit that designers are being as creative as they are being confusing with their creations. But at the end of the day, the look still carries a good punch.

Narcisso Rodriguez - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Iceberg - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Vera Wang - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Hervé Léger by Max Azria - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Look no further than a belted high-waist silhouette to introduce yourself to the peplum effect. It is possibly the easiest way to getting to the look with your preexisting wardrobe. Once you get the peplum logistics down, you play the fashion fields.

Mulberry - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Damir Doma - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

McQ Alexander McQueen - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

However the look is created, the peplum is sure to be a key look for Fall 2012 and a perfect twist for layering.

We owe this one to the ancient Greeks!

We believe that being a good mom is chic enough. And, here is our Top 10 Celebrity Moms Who Rock Fur list celebrating the mothers who make being a mom look so good. Have a fashionable Happy Mother’s Day…you deserve it.

1. Heidi Klum

Heidi Klum dressed in fur puts the word super in Supermodel

Heidi Klum with her 4 kids; eldest daughter Leni Klum Samuel, sons Henry Gunther Ademola Dashtu Samuel, Johan Riley Fyodor Taiwo Samuel, and daughter Lou Sulola Samuel.

2. Jessica Alba

Going incognito, Jessica Alba proves that fur is so very versatile and appropriate for any age.

Jessica Alba in a Parenting Magazine shoot showing off her adorable daughters Haven Garner Warren and Honor Maire Warren

3. Sarah Jessica Parker

Sarah Jessica Parker is the ultimate symbol of the modern day fashionista.

Sarah Jessica Parker walking kids James Wilkie, Loretta and Tabitha Broderick to school.

4. Halle Berry

Halle Berry is always at the top of every best dressed and most beautiful list and you will get no argument from us on that.

Halle Berry takes great pride in being a doting mom to her daughter Nahla.

5. Kourtney Kardashian

Kourtney Kardashian looks gorgeously retro in her fur shrug.

Kourtney Kardashian with her son Mason Dash Disick eating spaghetti. The reality is that we love this reality mom.

6. Joan Rivers

One of our favorite GRAND DAMES Joan Rivers shows no signs of slowing down...and why should she when she can still rock her fur so brilliantly!

Joan Rivers and her daughter Melissa Rivers, pictured here with her grandson Cooper Endicott, always keep us laughing and enjoying fashion's hits and misses.

7. Beyoncé

Beyoncé...always glamorous.

Beautiful new mom Beyoncé with precious little daughter Blue Ivy Carter.

8. Elizabeth Hurley

Elizabeth Hurley is timeless, stunning and oh so regal.

Elizabeth Hurley takes her son Damian Charles Hurley to school and has obviously passed on the most important lesson of all...always looking fashionable.

9. Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera wears fur to accentuate her sexy retro glam assets.

Singer Christina Aguilera always puts her son Max as a number one priority in her busy schedule.

10. Cindy Crawford

Cindy Crawford simply takes our breath away!

Cindy Crawford clearly passed on the beautiful gene to her 2 kids daughter Kala and son Presley.

Leave it to the British to channel East London cemeteries and make the reference chic for their fashion shows! Geoffrey J. Finch, the man behind Antipodium, did just that and delivered a line-up that, given this inspiration, was much more civilian than one might expect.

Because the fashion label is very young, it will take a few trial runs to establish a distinct identity. We know that London Fashion Week is raising its profile, so such creative experimentation can only be beneficial.

Direct Link: http://youtu.be/iqy3OJjDOTQ

The Brits love their quirky color combinations, their unexpected and unapologetic eccentricities, and their punk heritage; so, it comes without surprise that some of these quirks would be on the Antipodium runway for all to see.

At the end of the day, Antipodium delivered looks that were cosmopolitan, sophisticated and edgy, if slightly safer than we anticipated. From thin knits to key wardrobe separates, the looks will undoubtedly appeal to a wide-ranging clientele.

Of course, the fur nods didn’t go unnoticed. The accessories are loads of fun; they are en par with the global trend for scarves and gloves, mittens. We particularly liked the fox patchwork, especially as a lining. The texture is very rich and interesting and feels very  young.

Antipodium may be in its infancy (it’s barely a year old), but it shows great potential. Congratulations on a good début!

The latest Carmen Marc Valvo runway collection celebrated a sophisticated muse, an elegant, lithe woman attired in refined sportswear. Dressing simply never looked so good. A key silhouette in this Fall 2012 collection is the sheath, redefined for a look that is elegant, yet appears clean and comfortable.

From knee-length, slim-fitting sheath creations to evening interpretations – some even flaunted trains – the fur fashion looks carried a punch! Their beauty due, in part, to the textile choices; the colors, weight and sheen turned runway models into luxuriating vessels.

Direct Link: http://youtu.be/EtH_VRDyD5k?t=15s

But Valvo being Valvo, he didn’t shy away from fur accents and his favorite accent this runway season seems to be the  easy-going fur scarves that crown his creations. It is a matter of time before clients’ kids or husbands borrow these particular items. They are simply great.

Of course, he brought out more than a few statement pieces, items that are eye-catching and chic, as well as easy to wear. His short sheared mink looked like glorious silk velvet. His ombré patchwork coat was mesmerizing in person; its bluish cast making it look like it was rinsed in moonstones.

There’s a reason Carmen Marc Valvo has come to be a true fashion celebrity. He unquestionably knows how to make a woman look her best.

One of the great excitements with each fashion cycle is deciphering the collections and picking out of the mix of historical details that most influenced designers. Not that fashion designers are fashion historians, they are not; but, as the rule of fashion engagement dictates, we reference many things instinctively, often without knowing where the form originated from.

Alexander McQueen - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Fashion plate, La Belle Assemblée, 1830s

Manish Arora - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Gareth Pugh - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Gallery detail from "Madeleine Vionnet" Exhibition, Paris (2009)

The Fall 2012 designer collections contained their fair share of historical nods – shapes favoring yesteryear; even a few centuries past – and proportions that are redefining today’s fashion direction.

The Duke of Burgundy, Philip the Good, and his son Charles (later to be known as Charles the Bold), being paid homage by the author of the Chronicles of Hainault. Rogier Van der Weyden's only surviving miniature (1447-8)

Andrew Gn - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Fashion plate, Le Journal des Dames et des Modes (1830)

Todd Lynn - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

So, what themes dominated the fashion runways for Fall 2012? Here’s a bit of fashion trivia….. look no further than the Garrick coat. This iconic coachman’s coat is often referred to as the ancestor of the trench coat, being one of the best thought-out garments ever designed. It was, after all, used to protect from the elements and had so much swagger that it became synonymous with its biggest fan, the English actor David Garrick.

Charles François Mallet, by Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres (1809)

John Galliano - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Viktor & Rolf - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Dolce e Gabanna - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

As it turns out, more than a few fur designs parallel this particular coat’s layered shoulder… some even encase the upper shoulders as one unit. Of course, we’re not looking at ‘copy-cat’ versions of past garments, but the influence of  little historical details that beautifully revamp new creations. We all know too well that fashion feeds on novelty; who said that the old stuff can’t be edgy again?

Givenchy - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Etro - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Lie Sang Bong - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Mugler - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Watch for more on historical references in the Fall 2012 collections………

Call the Fashion Police, because the latest WTF (What’s The Fashion?) moments at the 2012 Costume Institute Met Gala didn’t pass unnoticed. Of course there were hits and misses, but as a rule everyone got a big “A” for effort.

Jessica Stam, in Christian Dior - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Sofia Vergara, in Marchesa, with Harry Winston jewels - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Emma Roberts, in Escada, with Bulgari jewels - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Rachel Roy with Solange Knowles, in a dress by the designer and a Nancy Gonzalez clutch - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Coco Rocha, in vintage Givenchy, with Wilfredo Rosado jewels and a Kotur clutch - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Kristen Bell, in Tommy Hilfiger, with Van Cleef & Arpels jewels - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

China Chow, in Jean Paul Gaultier Haute Couture - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

And from there the grade gets downgraded as many partygoers truly tried too hard­ – case in point, Gwyneth Paltrow! We know she’s lovely, incredibly lithe and not 20! Still, if she’s had help we want her surgeon’s number; she looks amazing. On that note, a few dressed a little mature for their age. The Red Carpet can be intimidating, so it is understandable…but?

Gwyneth Paltrow, in Prada, with Anna Hu jewels - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Mary-Kate Olsen, in The Row, with Fred Leighton jewels - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Kirsten Dunst, in Rodarte - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

The gala was, first and foremost,  to celebrate the Schiaparelli-Prada exhibition. So the Schiaparelli references were everywhere, as were the many Prada notes. Elsa Schiaparelli was famed for her madcap take on fashion and Miuccia Prada is famed for introducing a somewhat early 1970s “funky” vibe into the mainstream.

Anna Wintour, in Prada - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

"Lobster" Dress, Elsa Schiaparelli and Salvador Dali, 1937, (Philadelphia Museum of Art)

Linda Fargo, in custom Naeem Khan - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

"Appolo Fountain" Evening Cape, Elsa Schiaparelli, 1938

Miuccia Prada, in her own design - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Carey Mulligan, in Prada - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Chloë Sevigny, in Miu Miu - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

On the whole, not too many  seasoned red carpet goers took risks this time around, so it was refreshing to see a few doing their own thing. We assume that some substance abuse might be behind some of these apparent lapses in judgment.  Then again, creativity manifests itself in mysterious ways, no?

Marc Jacobs with Milla Jovovich, in Prada - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Claire Courtin-Clarins, Prisca Courtin-Clarins, Jenna Courtin-Clarins, and Virginie Courtin-Clarins, all in Mugler - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Karen Elson and Alexa Chung, both in Marc Jacobs - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Florence Welch, in Alexander McQueen - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

At the end of the evening, it really shows that a lovely face can help pull off some rather quirky looks. From models in need of a sandwich to pop-stars ready to dust floors with their gowns, the looks were as varied as they could be.

Anja Rubik, in Anthony Vaccarello, with Eddie Borgo jewels - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Beyoncé Knowles, in Givenchy Haute Couture - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Diane Kruger, in Prada, with Fred Leighton jewels - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

January Jones, in Atelier Versace, with Cartier jewels - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Bianca Brandolini d'Adda, in Dolce & Gabbana - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

We especially liked the men in tuxedo and the style it inspired. Yves Saint Laurent would approve.

Gerard Butler, in Alexander McQueen - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Tom Brady, in Tom Ford, with Gisele Bündchen, in Givenchy Haute Couture - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Marina Abramović, in Givenchy Haute Couture, with Pomellato jewels; with James Franco, in Gucci - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Carine Roitfeld, in Givenchy Haute Couture - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Franca Sozzani with Adrien Brody, in Prada - The 2012 Costume Institute Gala

Who are your best and worst dressed?

BREAKING NEWS:  THE FURINSIDER HAS JUST LEARNED THAT THE ICONIC ELSA SCHIAPARELLI LABEL WILL BE RELAUNCHED BY DIEGO DELLA VALLE, OWNER OF THE TOD’S GROUP.

There are names in fashion that most people know but can’t quite pinpoint out. One of these names is Elsa Schiaparelli, one of the greatest designers in fashion history. Elsa Schiaparelli is going to become a household name once again, along with Miuccia “Miu Miu” Prada, with Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (May 10–August 19, 2012).

"Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations" at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (May 10–August 19, 2012)

"Trompe l'œil" sweater, Elsa Schiaparelli, ca. 1927 (The Philadelphia Museum of Art)

Cotton evening gown, Elsa Schiaparelli, April 1949

What many may not know, besides the fact that “Schiap” nicknamed her daughter, Maria Luisa Yvonne Radha , “Gogo” [herself the mother of Marisa Berenson], that she lived briefly twice in the US [she stayed in Princeton, NJ, for the duration of WWII], and was “THE” go-to couture label for the Paris avant-garde intelligentsia. She rubbed elbows with the Surrealists, to the dismay of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel who was also friends with the likes of Jean Cocteau and Salvador Dalì. The two women couldn’t stand one another, their friends had to cautiously make sure to not overlap invitations!

Vase with two faces, Elsa Schiaparelli 1930s (The Philadelphia Museum of Art)

model wearing Elsa Schiaparelli's "Shoe" hat, winter 1937–38

"Shoe" hat, Elsa Schiaparelli, winter 1937–38

"Cocteau" Evening Jacket, Elsa Schiaparelli, Fall 1937 (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

Evening dress and head scarf with tear design (collaboration with Salvador Dalí), Elsa Schiaparelli, summer-fall 1938, (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

In retrospect, Elsa Schiaparelli, who often veiled her numerous collections with large swath of indelible humor, was possibly one of the most technologically driven couture house in Paris at the time –if not for a few decades. She was one of the first to bluntly use zippers and early plastics for her couture creations –her famed buttons (anything and everything from architectural details to insects to reclaimed objects) were as synonymous with her sharp tailoring as they were with her madcap flair. Today, she would likely utilize NASA textiles and incorporate the latest Apple iCulture products in her creations.

Pantsuit, Elsa Schiaparelli, ca. 1939 (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

"Butterflies" evening dress, Elsa Schiaparelli, summer 1937 (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

'Take on the traditional Tyrolean hat', Elsa Schiaparelli, winter 1938–39 (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

Necklace, Elsa Schiaparelli, "Pagan" collection, fall 1938 (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

Belt, Elsa Schiaparelli, fall 1934 (The Metropolitan Museum of Art)

Alla wearing an astrakhan sweater, Elsa Schiaparelli, 1949 collection, photo Geneviève Naylor/CORBIS

If you want to get a taste of what made Elsa “Schiap” Schiaparelli tick and influence the world of fashion to this day, go check-out Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (May 10–August 19, 2012).

If you want to see the gala’s red carpet arrivals streamed live, Monday, May 7, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m [eastern time], click HERE.

"Lobster Dress", Elsa Schiaparelli and Salvador Dali, 1937, (The Philadelphia Museum of Art)

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Blumarine’s little sister, Blugirl, was a fun après-ski array of goat-hair boots, fur bonnets and earmuffs, and fur vests crowning a flirty assortment of skirts, shorts and cute little dresses.

Blugirl Fall 2012-Winter 2013 Video here

Of course, there were also a few adorable little black dresses thrown into this colorful mix.

The overall 1960s flavor (digested through an 80s filter) took form mostly within the embroidered shift dresses and mod styled pieces. The styling did carry the looks straight into battle like a well-trained little army. But, the feel and mood couldn’t be anymore youthful while remaining surprisingly classic.

The fun factor didn’t only come with the bursts of color. The retro prints (in a vibe similar to Christian Bérard’s textile work in the late 1940s) helped give the girly-girl twist a go, and  the color blocking gave a shot of excitement to liven up the line-up.

This collection might simply put Mongolian lamb back into the mainstream, as it turned more than a few looks into frothy delights. The effect was not only fun but also fashion forward. As much as the collection appears youthful, it is really much more sophisticated and complex once taken apart.

Anna Molinari knows a thing or two about delivering a strong, solid collection and this season she didn’t disappoint.

Blugirl Fall 2012-Winter 2013 Video here

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Joseph Altuzarra’s latest collection was slightly masculine in allure and very graphic. He credited Corto Maltese, the famed comic book character popular in the 1960s and 1970s. Corto is an adventurer, a free spirited sailor who travels the world and romances many.

Altuzarra Fall 2012-Winter 2013 Video here

Styling-wise, he played-up the adventurer’s personal preference for tall black boots, pants and torso-hugging jackets with pronounced lapels (the Maltese silhouette carries a retro 1820s vibe, if you’re into historical trivia).

This reference wasn’t lost on his runway looks, with many jackets carrying a somewhat menswear uniform quality, not necessarily marine in spirit, but definitely sharp at the shoulder and tailored.

Once you know the Corto Maltese reference, the line-up makes much more sense. The graphic aspects are strong and carry through the many looks, from skirts to tops, with various prints and surface treatments including spectacular embroideries.

At the end of the day, Altuzarra tried to convey a message based more on the visual impact  of the individual garment than on complete ensembles; the line-up read much more like “which piece shall I wear” than “I want it all.” Still, the collection had an addictive comic book vibe to it that was fun and engaging.

The fur pieces came and went throughout the collection; sometimes somewhat incognito, as in the sash-like belts, and at other times very dramatic, as in his statement-making outerwear.

In the end, this was one of our favorite collections of New York Fashion week.

Altuzarra Fall 2012-Winter 2013 Video here

Janet Jackson

She taught a generation of young women, through her catchy tunes, about control and self empowerment. The little spitfire that started out singing alongside her brothers in the infamous Jackson 5 group slowly emerged and took center stage as a forceful artist of the 90s. Stylish and real, women around the world related to her ever-changing style and soft spoken grace. With talent oozing from her pores, Janet has managed to remain relevant and in demand for over 30 decades and shows no sign of stopping. The only person to be crowned the spokesperson for the prestigious BLACKGLAMA “What Becomes a Legend Most?” campaign for two consecutive years, Janet’s style is timeless and her talent is endless.

Janet Jackson poses on the red carpet looking sexy in black fur

Janet Jackson appeard on the cover of the November 2011 issue of Harpers Bazaar Arabia awash in fur

Janet Jackson starred in the 2009 Tyler perry smash hit Why Did I Get Married

Whitney Houston

In the 80s Cinderella had nothing on Whitney Houston! This modern day princess charmed the world with her powerful voice and stunning good looks. A media darling who could do no wrong, Whitney hailed from singing royalty and was blessed with a voice, face and body that allowed her to transcend all barriers. Known simply as “the voice” worldwide, Whitney Houston at the height of her musical career, ventured out and took the world of acting by storm with her starring role in the blockbuster hit The Bodyguard. Not only did she prove that she had the skills to be classified as an actress, she also cemented her place in movie history with her remake of the movies anthem “I Will Always Love You.”  This was the legacy that she left, music we love!

Whitney was daring in her fur choices and loved color

Whitney Houston and her ex-husband Bobby Brown

Even while performing fur was the choice fabric for Whitney

Whitney Houston was a vision

Sharon Stone

Instinct tells us that there is nothing “basic” about Ms. Sharon Stone. With blockbuster hits of the 1990s including Total Recall (1990), Basic Instinct (1992), The Quick and the Dead (1995), Casino (1995) and Sphere (1998) Sharon was in high demand and at the top of every director’s list when thinking of casting strong sexy females. Her unbelievable body and abundance of self confidence translated into her wardrobe choices and made it fashionable to be sexy and daring on the Red Carpet.

Sharon is always a paparazzi favorite

Sharon is known for making a dramatic enterance on the red carpet

Madonna

Earning the title of the human chameleon, Madonna could teach a master class on reinvention and self promotion. We cannot even begin to address the impact, both good and bad, that this Brooklyn born Italian American pop goddess has had on the lineage of fashion evidenced by the countless designers she has been the muse for. Unapologetic, unconventional and unbelievably versatile, Madonna is in a class all by herself in both the music and fashion realm.

Madonna from her appearance at the 1991 Academy Awards

Madge as she is affectionately known

Madonna is like no other entertainer of our time

Everything in the fashion game is fair play; and there is nothing designers won’t reference, or flat-out appropriate. We know that womenswear takes many cues from menswear details, but did you pay attention to the latest craze for epaulettes (literally “small shoulders” in French)?

Louis XIV wearing shoulder ribbons, an early type of epaulette, painted after 1670

Military epaulette

Officer of the French Republican Guard with epaulettes

Fendi - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

Well, the cat’s out of the bag, and designers are applying epaulettes to just about everything from outerwear, which is the expected garment type, to daywear and anything ranging from dresses to little jackets.

Miniature portrait painting of General Count Ivan Ivanovich Dibich-Zabalkanskii (1785-1830) by Iwan Winberg

Tsumori Chisato - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

Ang - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

Don’t think that everything is, as it seems. Some designers are referencing the epaulette look via cropped boleros and shrugs. At face value the look is pure epaulette style, but when viewed from the side or back profile, the bolero/shrug divulges the ruse.

Roccobarocco - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

Leonard - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

Krizia - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

The epaulette may come from a military ancestry, an ode to the Napoleonic era and 19th century romanticism. As they say, “Who doesn’t love a man in uniform?” So, why not love the woman too? If you look a little further into the trend, you’ll be surprised to find out some rather unusual applications (Russian jailbirds are totally into the look too?).

A portrait miniature of an Officer, by Sir William Charles Ross (c.1825)

Shiatzy Chen - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

Russian criminal with tattoos - Epaulette tattoos (on the shoulders) display the criminal’s rank in a system that mirrors that of the army (major, colonel, general, etc.)

Andrew Gn - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

The most pronounced epaulette effect from the most recent collections comes with longer hair furs which play as much with volume, as they do with the theatrics of the look. The vibe ranges greatly from rock star cool, to football player brawn. At the end of the day, you could see it as an outward shoulder-pad and not as a military insignia.

Michael Jackson sporting one of his military styles with epaulettes

Paco Rabanne - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

Brandon Flower, frontman of the KILLERS, sporting his epaulette looks

Leonard - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

Tim Tebow carrying his Bronco gear off the field

Pedro Lourenço - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

Junko Shimada - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

Douglas CP Series 56 All-Purpose Football Shoulder Pads

Philipp Plein - Fall-Winter 2012-2013

Alber Elbaz’s Lanvin is simply divine. Of course, it takes a great designer to take an esteemed name, reinvent it and not vulgarize it in the process. Sorry about sounding like a ‘Debbie Downer,’ but plenty of designers [put name(s) here] have quasi-murdered labels by disregarding established heritages.

Lanvin Fall 2012-Winter 2013 Video here 

Lanvin is one of the exceptions. It happens to be utterly modern while retaining its historic creative prestige. This season didn’t disappoint; there were enough novelties to excite even the most jaded in the audience, and enough sportswear for a wardrobe of beautiful and comfortable dressing.

The collection was dark and vampy, and carried a weird referential 1950′s parallel. From the proportions of the dresses, the use of peplums and oversized ruffles, there were more than a few historical nods.

If you were looking more in depth, you might decipher some mod 60s touches and some early 80s whispers. But what is great about Alber Elbaz is that he never copies and always makes a point to give his women that elegant femininity.

This could not have been more apparent than on his Fall 2012 runway. The dresses, the coats, even the pony skin ensembles contoured each model’s silhouette moving with them beautifully and gracefully.

Of all the looks, one of our favorites is the black mink coat with dyed white goat trim; it defied eras, yet channeled the glamour of yesteryear.

Lanvin Fall 2012-Winter 2013 Video here 

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Newcomer Brandon Sun opted for a small and intimate presentation to introduce his namesake collection to the world this past Fall 2012-Winter 2013 fashion calendar. We must say that this J. Mendel and Oscar de la Renta veteran played his cards very well; after all, he does have a rather impressive pedigree!

Brandon Sun Fall 2012-Winter 2013 Video here 

His approach for this particular presentation was a wise introductory note… understated and nuanced. The collection had a slightly minimalist vibe combined with a raw quality that made it somewhat directional.

Because it was well measured and rather elegant in its laissez-faire approach and execution, the line-up didn’t pigeon hole itself in that ‘high-brow Boho-chic’ niche that other designers often take.

The mutated hues looked as if rinsed by the moonlight, which gave this twilight color scheme a reserved and understated politeness. Who knew that grey shades could look so noble? Within a few minutes, various colorcasts started to emerge from the seemingly monochrome palette.

Layering his signature fur pieces and accessories with a varied palette of textured looks gave the collection an ageless, strong and versatile bent. He wisely expanded his fur expertise and sophistication into cozy knits and luxe leather separates that made you wish there were more.

Notable looks include a black monochrome shearling vest, a dusk-rose for pullover, and an undulating for bolero.

Brandon Sun Fall 2012-Winter 2013 Video here 

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Very few actresses have made more of a mark in Hollywood for their impeccable elegance and polite nature, both on and off the stage, than Audrey Hepburn. These are traits appreciated especially nowadays, what with the slew of wannabes and their “accidental” slips of judgment (i.e. sex tapes, dressing lewd, being obnoxious) to enjoy their 15 minutes of fame… or 15 seconds as the case might be! Audrey Hepburn, with her high cheekbones, big brown eyes, polished demeanor and classic beauty, still conjures up elegance and chic…..and all the true markings of a real STAR.

Audrey Hepburn photo from 'Vogue - The Sixties'

Audrey Hepburn in 'How to Steal a Million'

Audrey Hepburn as Blackglama spokesperson

This Belgian-born polyglot actress is still emulated and copied by designers, actresses, and girls next door – all of whom admire her classic nymph-like beauty. Yes, she was lithe, narrow and tallish; she favored her hair back ballerina style; she dressed simply and elegantly always!

Audrey Hepburn photographed by Richard Avedon for Harper’s Bazaar magazine (January 1967)

Audrey Hepburn for Vogue, 1963. Photo Bert Stern

Audrey Hepburn shot for the cover of Vogue, 1960s

Harper's Bazaar (April 1956)

Audrey was able to remain stylish and fabulous over her lifetime

She became, through happenstance, the muse and friend of the great Hubert de Givenchy and was half of a historical fashion duo. Even the editor, Diana Vreeland couldn’t have hoped for a better pairing. He dressed her in many films, and undoubtedly helped Edith Head secure at least one Oscar statuette.

Audrey Hepburn wearing the iconic 'Victoire de Samothrace' gown by Givenchy in 'Funny Face'

Audrey Hepburn with Hubert de Givenchy

Audrey Hepburn photographed by Ron Galella with her dear friend Richard Avedon at the '1988 Council of Fashion Designers of America Awards' at Metropolitan Museum of Art. New York (October 28, 1988)

No one can walk by Tiffany & Co., on the corner of 57^th Street and 5^th Fifth Avenue, without recalling the iconic scene of Breakfast at Tiffany’s, with her hair in a French twist, sporting a chunky pearl necklace, that lovely Givenchy black dress, with a cup of street coffee and a donut in hand.

Audrey Hepburn in a still from BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S, 1961

The famous 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' gown created by Hubert de Givenchy

Breakfast at Tiffany's (1961)

Audrey Hepburn in a publicity shot for BREAKFAST AT TIFFANY'S, 1961

Audrey Hepburn’s work as an ambassador for UNICEF later in life proved to the world that her strength and compassion, her dignity and dedication were the traits of an inner beauty that may have even eclipsed her exceptional physical beauty.

Audrey Hepburn worked tirelessly for UNICEF and gave her heart to the cause of helping the underprivileged...now that's true beauty

The way she carried herself throughout her life and the beauty she shared, from her heart as well as her visage, will carry her legacy through the generations.

Audrey Hepburn at home. An out take from photos shot for the cover of the December 7, 1953 issue of Life. Photo by Mark Shaw

Mel Ferrer and Audrey Hepburn, holding a Fur Coat, British Film Academy Awards, April 1964

Audrey Hepburn steps out in the snow in a fur hat

Audrey Hepburn (wearing 'Simplicity Pattern') photographed with her then husband the actor and director Mel Ferrer for a fashion editorial for Seventeen Magazine (July 1954). Photo by Richard Avedon.

There is something always timely and chic about leopard print in fashion. Some today might even go so far as to consider it a wardrobe “must-have,” almost a neutral color, if you will.

Jean Paul Gaultier - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Barbara Bui - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

A still from Edie Sedgwick's Last film, 'Ciao, Manhattan!'

St. John - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

As it turns out, leopard print is coming back with a vengeance –showing its spots, pulling out its claws– for the world to see and to experience. If you followed the Fall 2012 collections closely and liked what you saw, you will be sporting some spots yourself in a few months’ time.

Françoise Sagan - leopard coat, Life Magazine photo

Moncler Gamme Rouge - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Ralph Lauren - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Blumarine - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Dolce e Gabbana - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Roccobarocco - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

For a few decades (starting in the 1970s) the dilemma about leopard print was how to wear it without looking “démodé” or “cheap.” Until the 1960s, leopard was pure couture glamour, then it became synonymous with streetwalker style, then moved on to rebellious punk. In many ways leopard is a subculture favorite! And for those seeking a different twist on the savage theme tiger stripes are now getting the revamp treatment as well. Who can’t love that?

Jacqueline Kennedy as she departs for a solo tour of India and Pakistan, wearing a stunning leopard coat, long black gloves and black pillbox hat (1962)

In the past few years, designers and furriers helped revive this iconic print in a multitude of design variances and finishes ranging from textile prints to fur stenciling. And judging by the prevalence of leopard print furs in designer collections for fall 2012, these stenciled furs are taking over the fashion world by storm, (re)introducing this iconic fashion note for all to enjoy (and that also includes the men).

Blumarine - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Isabel Marant - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Dsquared2 - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

St. John - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Blumarine - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

ADIDAS Y-3 - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

ADIDAS Y-3 - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Printed on anything from lapin to cowhide to goat and even sheared mink, leopard is really showing its universality and is starting to infiltrate more than the conventional outerwear wardrobe. Leopard print fur accessories are currently winning throngs of new fans too. The leopard handbag might simply be one of the coolest accessories around for next fall.

ANG - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Louis Vuitton - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

Ralph Lauren - Fall 2012-Winter 2013

We say go wild with leopard print this fall!

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As usual, Fendi delivered a collection for Fall 2012 that showed, beyond comparison, what can be done with fur given the latest technologies. There isn’t anything Fendi isn’t willing to tackle – and master in the process – when it comes to fur design.

Fendi Fall 2012-Winter 2013 Video here 

This collection embraced historical, sartorial shapes of 17th, 18th and 19th century fashion specifically – if not more appropriately in a random order – picking out distinct garment details and assigning them to wholly new creations.

Karl Lagerfeld is a master through and through and always makes a point to introduce the unexpected. The idea behind this particular collection was much more an exercise in hybrid experimentation – about innovations in mixing fur types.

Sounds a little odd, and at first it was, but once separated from the group each piece asserted its own masterful handling – flaunting that Fendi touch.

You could call this collection a thematic exercise taken into the context of the fashion realm. Some looks read sculptural whereas others brought to mind the brush strokes and composition of a master painter.

Though the intricate work behind these looks is awe-inspiring, it goes without saying that some of the looks may be a bit difficult to visualize outside of a runway setting. This collection was extremely fashion forward and might simply be one of the Fall 2012 – Winter 2013 trailblazers.

Fendi Fall 2012-Winter 2013 Video here