Sunday, September 25, 2011

Review: The Rachel Zoe Collection

Yes, I know I am late to the game on this one. Rachel Zoe's new collection launched weeks ago, and I've perused it many times since then. Honestly, I love Rachel Zoe. I think her style is iconic and she isn't afraid to buck trends. She makes trends. She wears wide leg jeans and she's as short as I am. So here's my 2 cents on her new collection. Not that Rachel Zoe would care at all what I think, but...Rachel, if you ever see this, I love your work. :)
All images courtesy of Saks Fifth Avenue website. Check them out to view The Rachel Zoe Collection and purchase online!

Favorite Shoe: Audrey Stretch Suede Platform Ankle Boots
$395, Saks Fifth Avenue
These shoes are edgy and simple at the same time. There's actually a picture of them paired with the Julie Skinny Jean if you scroll down. The suede material is so fall-appropriate and versatile. The platform is a heck-of-a-lot better than a stiletto and works with both skinny and flare jeans, which is important for this year. Flares and skinnies are competing for the spotlight this season for the first time in what seems like forever. They would look amazing with literally all of the pieces in Rachel's Collection, and make the invisible foot look possible (I'll explain...).

Favorite Look #1: The Charlie Houndstooth Jacket and Pants
Jacket, $375; Pants, $275; Natalie Blouse, $295 (shown with Audrey Ankle Boots) Saks Fifth Avenue
Menswear. Flared silhouette. Sex Appeal. This look is great to me because it captures so much of Zoe's style and yet lends itself to pretty much any occasion. This would be so chic for work or a night out. The houndstooth patten is an echo of British and equestrian, but it gets a modern facelift with the added height of the platforms and the tie-neck blouse. I especially like the way they chose to style this model with minimal accessories and very clean hair and makeup. The suit speaks for itself, and although it is borrowed from the boys it is still very feminine and sexy to me. This is why I love Rachel Zoe.

Favorite Look #2: Marie One-Sleeve Caftan Top with Julie Skinny Jeans
Marie Top, $250; Julie Skinny Jeans, $175 (shown with Audrey Ankle Boots)
I think that one of the great things about Zoe is her ability to mix proportions in such a flattering way. The rule is always "skinny on top, loose on bottom" or vice versa. I don't think I've ever seen Rachel Zoe wear anything skin-tight or overly clingy, and this shows up in her collection, of course. She knows how to drape and flatter a woman's body without letting her appear big. Some say wearing loose clothing adds pounds, but when Zoe styles it, the looks are slimming. This Caftan top is a perfect example. Paired with sleek, dark skinny jeans it doesn't swallow the model or hide her form. It drapes so nicely and the one-shoulder cut is sexy without being too revealing. I love this look for going to a nice dinner, a party, or even shopping. I think it embodies one of the mot classic and flattering looks that you can make with a flattering skinny jean.

Favorite Look #3: Frankie Peasant Blouse and Anjelica Wool Crepe Pants
Frankie Blouse, $295; Anjelica Pants, $375 (shown with Audrey Ankle Boots)
I have always wanted a pair of camel colored, high-waisted trousers like these. I have somehow never felt that they'd be flattering on someone like myself, but after seeing this look, I have hope. Zoe has styled a more casual, peasant-style blouse with some Hepburn-esque wool trousers and it looks stunning. It also showcases her traditional "invisible foot" look, which I find to be incredibly flattering. Zoe is often seen wearing long-line flares and wide-leg pants that skim the ground while she wears high, platform shoes. This gives the illusion of long, thin legs and it works on everyone! I've recently purchased a few pairs of pants like this and let me tell you, it will do wonders for your shape. Zoe has clearly found a silhouette that works and I highly recommend it. I am also loving the peasant style. That was popular a few years ago and I'm glad it's back :) It's flattering, comfortable, and very chic.

These are just a few of the looks available in the Rachel Zoe Collection. I'm really excited that she finally released her own stuff! I hope you check out the rest of the collection and find inspiration there.