Chicago. On a day that was unusually cooler, given a recent streak of high temperatures, I boarded the train for the Windy City of Chicago. My monthly visual quest for fashionable inspiration. The Fall-like weather that settled in paired with the layer of clouds that hung overhead (which would soon disperse)and certainly brought forth further Fall Fashion excitement. August. The end of Summer and the slow progression towards layers with cooler days and nights that are ahead. And so it was. Another journey to the fashionable streets of Chicago. Camera in hand. From State Street to Michigan Avenue to Oak Street & the Gold Coast. Fashion’s changing force visually presented. Inspiration abounds for those that seek visual appreciation and for those that seek fashionable impulse. Fashion’s appreciation, indeed.
Yet beyond the display that awaits behind the glass panes of fashion is a visual appreciation of the city that surrounds. Chicago and its architecturecontinue to remain a draw from behind the lens of my camera…Appreciation of a city, indeed….
Stellar City Scape : Chicago Love
And of the fashionable statements that visual merchandising designers present behind the windows of fashion? Onward into finding inspiration, as always…
Vivid Red & Striking AccessoriesFeathery Delight: Michael KorsGray & Black Hues Of Timeless Appeal: Tom FordTom Ford’s Striking Autumnal AppealVisuals Of Fashionable Appeal: Accessories Of High Style Behind Tom FordTom Ford’s Layered Classic DelightsMax Mara: Autumnal Hues Of EleganceAubergine Delight: Max MaraFlowing Elegance Of Rose & Hued Beauty: Max MaraElegance & Timelessness In The Details: Max MaraElegance: Flowing, Sequined & Ribboned Delight: Max MaraBlue Hues Of Fashionable Appeal Behind Max MaraHues Of Autumn In Max Mara’s Fashionable VisualBurberry: Fall’s Approach On DisplayAutumn and Style: Burberry’s Windows Of FashionAutumn’s Layers & Color Behind Herme
Jill Sander: Classic Appeal and Neutral Hues
Autumnal Appeal: Windows Of FashionFashion On The City Streets: Chanel’s Chance
Reflections. Part of the appeal….
Consider the world of fashion. The changing world of fashion from behind the windows that line the city streets. Visuals to inspire. Visuals to appreciate. There is an art form that lies behind the reflective panes of glass. Details to appreciate. As always, a constant focus from behind my lens. Summer’s end approaches. Fall lies before us. Fashion, onward, indeed…
Onward,
Kristin
“Selfie”: Reflections Off Fashion’s Windows In Chicago
Chicago in July. Fashion’s appeal reigned amidst the wave of heat that blasted upon those of us that ventured out onto the city streets. With a heat index of 105 degrees, I ventured from the train onto the streets of Chicago with enthusiasm (paired with several venti iced coffee’s in which the ice melted in minutes). City love awaited and fashionable inspiration beckoned me from behind my lens. Capturing the Summertime fashionable appeal paired with pre-Fall proclamations from the windows of fashion merchandising was my goal. For those that follow these monthly fashionable posts of Chicago, perhaps you have come to expect its arrival onto the pages of this blog. A constant for me. As fashion is always changing and the seasons along with it, one constant is my appreciation for the artistry presented behind the heavy glass panes of fashion . Changing appeal with seasonal inspirations. On the cusp of Autumnal impact in fashion, it is my hope to provide a visual appreciation of the fashion that awaited…from behind my lens….
Of course, a view of this stellar city (albeit, from my iPhone)….
Chicago View Of A Stellar City
Onward in appreciation of fashion…from behind my lens…
Visual Impact: The Windows Of Chanel
I must add that the windows of Chanel won me over immediately. Incredible visual artistry that offered unexpected impact. Full size images that delighted. Chanel always delights and of the many images of Chanel windows that I have captured over the years, this visual above ranks at the top. Cheers to the visual artists behind Chanel!
Chanel: Early Fall Interpretations Of Stylish DisplayImpact Of Fashion: ChanelDetails Of Chanel: Fall InspiredSpotted & Feline Inspired: Stella McCartney/Sax Fifth AvenueNeiman Marcus: Pre-Fall InspirationsNeiman Marcus: Pre-Fall InspirationsNeiman Marcus: Pre-Fall InspirationsMannequins Of Stylish Display: Neiman MarcusSolar System Appeal: Fashionable Louis VuittonBurberry: Fashionable Windows Of StyleClassic Style: EscadaFrills & Patterned Appeal: PradaCarolina Herrera’s Emerald Green Delight & Fashion’s End Of Summer ProclamationsFashion’s Windows Of Style In ChicagoMadewell/Chicago: Summer’s Fashionable AppealBanana Republic: Summertime AppealDetails Of Style: Banana RepublicMax Mara: Fall Inspirations From The Windows Of Macy’s/State StreetFashionable Appeal Behind Windows Of StyleChanging Styles: Max MaraPre-Fall Inspirations: Max MaraColor & Pattern: Max MaraBlack & Carmel Hues: Max Mara DelightNeutral Style & Spotted Appeal: Max MaraDetails Of Fashionable Style: Max MaraSummer Fashion Classic: Anne Taylor Loft/Michigan AvenueCoach: The Iconic Coach Tag in Enormous Visual Form
Consider in appreciation the windows of fashion that surround you. The artistry of fashion’s marketing and the seasonal changes are sure to bring forth a nod of appreciation. I will always be behind the lens with the hopes of capturing an essence of fashion from the city streets of Chicago. Onward in that, indeed…
Onward,
Kristin
Stella McCartney: Fashionable Mannequin Impact
PS: Appreciating fashion’s windows also brings appreciation to the city reflected in the image. And of course, often, the photographer themselves. Selfie, onward.
Selfie: Reflections Off The Windows Fashion/Louis Vuitton
Jute sole “Espadrilles”. Long have they been an emblem of casual Summer “chic”. These jute sole shoes with canvas uppers have endured as a coveted warm weather essential. For certain, variations abound of this timeless shoe that pairs with a flexible and defining characteristic sole constructed of jute rope. Natural and lightweight delight, indeed…
Espadrilles: Season Style With Variations
Since the 14th century espadrilles have been crafted in the Pyrennean Catalonia region of Spain. Originally constructed as peasant footwear it is perhaps no surprise that the form and function of this lightweight, natural shoe would evolve and pair with fashion. Interestingly, the most primitive form of espadrilles date back as far as 4000 years. Quite an enduring history of natural appeal. The French term “Espadrille”, in the romance language of “Occitan”, was derived from “Esparto” (a plant that was originally burned then braided to make the soles) and from “Espardenya” in Catalan or “Alpargata” in Spanish. For certain, the braided rope soles with hand sewn fabric have endured as in craftsmanship. Today Jute Espadrilles are imported from Spain, France, Italy, Bangladesh and Argentina. Jute soles of broad, world wide appeal, indeed.
The Art Of The Espadrille: Enduring Craftsmanship
Beyond the origins of peasant footwear, espadrilles have certainly evolved into a fashionable statement of warm weather style. Although traditional espadrilles are worn by both men and women during the warm weather months, it is the modern espadrilles on the feet of the woman that my focus is upon. As for the appeal of these natural jute braided sole shoes in America, it has been attributed to the “Silver Screen’s” 1948 film “Key Largo” starring Lauren Bacall. Bacall, with her ankles ribboned with espadrille ties. Perhaps Bacall created a fashionable stir that has not ceased to appeal. The world of Hollywood would soon embark and stroll upon the streets with soles of jute…and the rest is history.
Key Largo (1948) Directed by John Huston Humphrey Bogart &Lauren Bacall Hollywood Icons & EspadrillesHollywood & Fashion:Enduring Fashionable Appeal in Jute EspadrillesEnduring Appeal In Fashion: Jute Espadrilles
In 1970 it was Yves Saint Laurent who brought the espadrille to greater heights with the pairing of his vision for a wedge espadrille. Having met Spanish espadrille manufacturers, Lorenzo & Isabel Castañer, at trade shoe in Paris, the Castañer’s successfully interpreted Yves Saint Laurent’s vision. Alas, fashion’s allure to the stacked jute soled shoe remains. Of course, with fashion, revivals and revisions will always bring the classics back to the forefront. During the 1980’s America again experienced a revival with these jute soled & canvas shoes. No matter the decade, this jute sole shoe will continue a journey of fashionable Summer appeal…
“If Yves Saint Laurent wanted a wedge espadrille, a wedge espradille he would have!”
-Lorenzo Castañer.
Yves Saint Laurent’s Iconic 1970’s Stacked Espadrille
And of the stylized high-heeled variations? Fashionable statements of height paired warm weather appeal, for certain. Yet it is theflat soled espadrille that my focus falls upon. Comfort and ease. Lightweight and simple. A warm weather classic…
Fashion’s Enduring Love Affair: EspadrillesClaudia Schiffer: Timeless Summer Appeal In Espadrilles (1994)Natural & Warm Weather Appeal: EspadrillesCasual Chic With Warm Weather Appeal: EspadrillesJute Soles & Canvas Uppers: Summertime PerfectionStylish Variations: Summer’s EspadrillesWarm Weather Essentials: EspadrillesBreton Striped, Nautical Delight: Summer EspadrillesSummer Style Paired With Natural Jute & Canvas: EspadrillesTimeless Black & White: Summer Espadrille ClassicsEspadrilles & The Man: Enduring Ease
Of course, a nod to the men that don a pair of espadrilles and to cooler temps with the addition of leather uppers…fashion evolves, always.
Fall Inspiration: Leather Upper Espadrilles In Autumn
Consider the ease and stylish appeal of the warm weather espadrille. Perhaps they are the perfect carefree & lightweight shoes of natural appeal when the sun soaks upon us. What is for certain is that the jute braided soles of these distinctive shoes is certain to remain an element of fashion paired with ease and breathable comfort. A timeless solution to sultry days. Warm weather appeal, indeed…
Onward,
Kristin
“Selfie”/My Espadrilles: This Summer’s Interpretation Of A Classic
Chicago in May. On a day in which the weather forecast promised clouds and steady showers of rain, I scrambled to catch the train for an early morning solo jaunt into the city of Chicago. A monthly commitment that I have not missed in over two years. A visual vitamin, if you will. Photographed from behind my lens. Framed through the view finder and compiled to present the essence of a particular month in Chicago. Over the last year my focus has been upon the fashionable windows of Chicago. Beckoning my lens, for certain. Seeing the now lush green world from the windows of the train that were spattered with rain drops, my relaxed ride was met with growing excitement as the train approached the great city by Lake Michigan. And so it is. Another journey that unfolded…
Approaching Ogilvie Train Station, Chicago
Seeking the energy and visual appeal that a city offers, I approached the city streets with an energy that matched my fearless rain-doesn’t-matter tall black rubber rain boots. The heavy gray clouds that hung over the city were no match in dimming the lure for the lights and artistry on display behind fashion’s windows. Rather, the windows seemed to offer more visual intensity. And of the draw to the lit up windows that reflect the cityscape from off its window panes? Indescribable from one who desires to capture the energy that spills onto the streets from the scenery set behind the thick glass. The month of May brings the onset of June and even lighter layers of fashionable style. Beyond the timeless classics that continually beckon the focus of my lens, the whimsy of fashion’s appeal also deserves focus. And of course, one accessory that always delights me? The seasonal return of the straw Panama hat visually marks the arrival of Summer in my eyes. A perennial favorite of mine and a timeless classic, indeed. The wide brim of shade from the rays of sun which will return with intensity soon…
Fashion & The Accessories That EmbellishFashion’s Elements From Behind The Fashionable Windows Of ChicagoElements Of Fashionable Appeal: Behind The Windows Of Fashion In Chicago
Vibrant colors lured me to the windows of fashion. Burberry’s always presents vivid colors in striking formation of display. Add to that windows filled with stylish shoes of high style that visually surpassed practicality. Fashion’s appeal, indeed. Handbags and clutches, accessories and layers of lightweight appeal filled the frame behind my lens…
Burberry’s Timeless AppealMichael Kors: Classic & Tailored DelightsChanel: Enduring Style Of Distinction With Visual ImpactChanel: Enduring Style Of Distinction With Visual Impact
The windows of the iconic Marshall Field’s in the loop (Macy’s) offered a visual homage to not only American heritage but also to the great city of Chicago. The iconic John Hancock building on Michigan Avenue that stands high above the city of Chicago. An icon of Chicago, for certain. Also on display as a kite is the great flag of the city of Chicago. Homage…
Homage To An American City: Chicago. Macy’s Visual Tribute To The Iconic John HancockAn American Tribute: Macy’s Chicago Style
A nod to the visual tribute to the world of “Selfies” which brought with it an acknowledgement of an era of technology in the world of youth. Life evolves.
The World Of “Selfies” & Macy’s/State Street (Marshall Field’s)
Of course, it wouldn’t be the world of fashion merchandising if there was not a forecasting of Pre-Fall fashion ahead. Alas, barely even into Summer and the windows of Neiman Marcus reminds us boldly of the new fashionable season ahead. Fashion continues to evolve. Fashion is a constantly changing world. Perhaps, like the windows I photograph, fashion repeats itself. Perhaps never in quite the same way, but with resemblances of the past that are woven into the present. Appreciation either way.
Neiman Marcus: Pre-Fall Fashion ForwardNeiman Marcus: Pre-Fall Fashion ForwardFashion’s Visual Delights From Behind The Fashionable Windows Of ChicagoZara/Chicago: Visual Appeal Of The ClassicsColorful & Muted Appeal: The Fashionable Windows Of Chicago In May
And of the city at this pivotal change of seasons? Chicago always offers visual appeal and excitement. The city itself transforms during the Summer months. Outdoor dining beckons all of us. The French bistro chairs arrive and flowers spill from planters. Summer in a city.
Summer’s Visual Arrival In Chicago: Outdoor Dining Awaits…
Of course, a nod to the world of fashion that appears on the city streets…
Fashion’s Visual On The City Streets: Michigan Avenue/Chicago
Consider the fashionable windows that surround you. The artistry behind the windows is fleeting and will always change as mannequins and the fashions that adorn them and the displays shift in the world of merchandising. For a moment, simply pay closer attention. Perhaps the whimsy of fashion will bring you a smile or grin. Or perhaps a homage to the classics of fashion will remind you that the classics will always endure. For me? I seek the timeless styles of fashion but will always hold appreciation for the frivolous side of the world that has always intrigued me. The art form of fashion itself. In appreciation, from behind the lens…
Onward,
Kristin
PS: And of the puddles I encountered and showers of rain that fell upon me? Dry feet but soaked with delight from the Spring rains that fell. Nothing can alter one’s spirit if you hold firmly to the beauty in life. Perhaps juggling an umbrella while attempting to photograph a scene before me was a bit challenging. Yet no matter the challenges that seem to arise in life, what comes with each day is part of the joy. City inspirations, indeed…
Classic “ballet flats”. Defined as “a shoe with a very flat, small half-centimeter heel or no heel, resembling a ballet slipper worn by dancers”, “ballerina flats” have become a constant in women’s footwear. Classic & timeless, indeed. The closed toe and slipper style construction, offers a low cut appeal which showcases the beauty of the foot. Of note, ballet flats have “right and left feet” which is unique in that traditional ballet pointe shoes have identical left and right shoes in a pair. Alas, who knew? Ballet flats provide a stylish alternative to heels. Designed to fit like a glove typically with a string at the top of the shoe to cinch and tighten, these flats which are often called “Skimmers” are available with a wide variety of materials, texture and styles. The choices in construction of these lightweight shoes certainly offers a personal choice to those that slip these on. Of course, the classic, standard “ballerine” is made in ultra-soft & supple leather shoes that are both stylish and comfortable. Timeless appeal that is universally adored for the united benefit of comfort and pure style. Casual yet elegant. Always in style…
If ballet flats have made a renaissance within the world of fashion, their past certainly deserves focus. Although flat shoes date back to the 16th century, history states that the shoes that were inspired and modeled after by ballet slippers began in Paris, France. The iconic name? Repetto. In 1947, artisan Rosetto Repetto crafted a pair of ballet pointe shoes for her son, French ballet dancer and choreographer, Roland Petit, who trained at the Paris Opéra Ballet school. The shoes that would launch further inspiration, indeed…
Rosetta Repetto (With Ballet Dancer Son, Roland Petit): The French Introduction Of The Hand-Stitched Ballet Flat
And of the first ballet flat? In 1956, Repetto was approached by French actress and film star, Brigitte Bardot to craft a pair of ballet slippers“fitted with a heel” for her film star role in Roger Vadim’s “And God Created Woman”. Bardot, who studied ballet at the Conservatoire de Paris wore a pair of red ballet flats created by Repetto in the film that would iconically launch Bardot’sballerina style and “chic French style”. In fact, ballet flats often appeared throughout her films and daily ensembles. Bardot’s “inimitable French stylenever failed to deliver elegance and carefree chic”. Of interest, what is referred to as the ‘BB’ style ballerina flats were named in her honor. Bardot is said to have been a purveyor of ballet-fashion that remains unrivaled. The lure of ballet flats had begun.
French Ballerina & Actress Brigitte Bardot: Linked To Repetto’s Creation Of Ballet Flats
In 1957, it was British actress Audrey Hepburn (and also a proficient former ballerina) that would set fashion’s lure pirouetting when she donned a pair of ballet flats paired with skinny pants in the American musical film, “Funny Face”. From cropped pants to elegant gowns, Hepburn became another icon whose distinctive style paired with ballet flats would assist in adding to the classic, simple appeal and timelessness of the shoes.
1950’s Audrey Hepburn: Iconic Images In Ballet Flats
By 1959 the demand for Repetto’s ballet shoes took Rosetta from her small shop near the Paris Opera to 22 Rue de la Paix, which still stands as the flagship store. Classics endure. The “Ballerine” or the “BB”Repetto Ballet Flats, over 50 years later, remains synonymous with Parisian “chic”. With unwavering appeal, Repetto has undoubtedly inspired countless fashion houses to create their own lines of these slip on beauties. As Repetto’s company chief, Jean-Marc Gaucher has stated “It feels like a slipper, it’s just like wearing a glove”. Alas, it is no wonder a shoe of quality and craftsmanship paired with timeless style prevails within the changing world of fashion.
Of course, the French ballet flat thrives in a world that pairs with heritage and great style. Shifting focus to Italy and the great Italian shoe,Porselli…
Porselli: Italian Luxury Of The Iconic Ballet Flats
At the beginning of the 19th century, Eugenio Porselli worked as an artisan craftsman in a workshop in Milan, Italy that produced ballet shoes for classical ballet, including the Scala dancers. Porselli acquired the business in 1919 and what has followed is three generations of craftsmen producing an artisan tradition committed to quality. Much like Repetto. Today the Porselli brand Specializes in handmade ballet flat shoes. Renowned for its application of raw materials and fine workmanship, the ballerina shoes are referred to as “Walking Models”. The appeal of walking in style and comfort has certainly appropriately earned them the credit of “Walking” shoes…
The history of these hand stitched, hand crafted and stylish flats of Repetto & Porselli present an artisan quality that is authentic and legendary. Taken from ballet, fashion continues to be inspired by this enduring “Pointe of Style”…
Enduing Appeal: Repetto’s Iconic Ballet FlatsTimeless Style: The Fashionable Appeal of The Ballet FlatStylish Simplicity: Ballet FlatsTimeless Style Of Enduring Appeal: Ballet FlatsFashion’s Appeal: The Classic Ballet FlatEmbellished Or Simplistic Style: The Enduring Ballet FlatsJCrew: The Resurgence Of The Iconic Ballet Flat In Bold ColorsVariations Of A Classic: Ballet FlatsBridal Delight: Comfort Paired With Classic StyleInspired By The Elegance & Beauty Of Ballet..
Consider the enduring appeal of ballet flats. A constant in a woman’s wardrobe, ballet flats remain an everyday classic. Whether it is a bold color choice, a flourish of decoration adorning these flats or the classic and timeless supple leather shoe, ballet flats will endure to appeal to the world of fashion. For certain, as with anything in fashion, the ballet flat has evolved and even modernized in its renditions of a classic. Yet the classic and perhaps traditional ballet flats will always survive fashions changes and embellishments. Ballet flats will continue to thrive as a steady classic that women of all ages reach for. Dependable and timeless classic. For certain, never underestimate the power of a ballet flat. A fashion icon that is classic and timeless, indeed…
Kristin
“Ballet flats suit everybody”. “Happily, there are ballerinas for every occasion. Gold for day and black suede for evening is always elegant. With pants or dresses-everything goes! If you had to choose just one pair of shoes, these would be the ones” -Ines de la Fressange, “Parisian Chic”
The classic Oxford shoe. A distinctive shoe design that provides a sleek, elegant shape characterized by shoelace eyelet tabs. Distinctive design. The tabs, stitched either underneath the “vamp” of the shoe (referred to as “Closed Lacing”) or stitched on top of the shoe (a construction method referred to as “Open Lacing”). Stylish preferences, for certain.
Oxfords are said to have first appeared in Scotland and Ireland. Interestingly, the word “Oxford” has historically been referred to as “Balmorals” after the Queen’s castle in Balmoral, Scotland. Who knew? Yet the meaning of the terms “Oxford” and “Balmoral” are said to vary geographically. The term “Brogues” also reference the classic and iconic oxford shoe. In France, oxfords are known under the name “Richelieu”. However they are referred, they are quintessentially timeless in style.
Additional history of this timeless shoe? The word “Oxford” is derived from the “Oxonian” boot (a half boot with side slits) which gained popularity at Oxford University in 1800. Of course there had to be a connection to the Ivy League school of esteem! Of interest, it was the side slit that would evolve into a side lace which would eventually travel to the instep. Who knew that the result of which was embraced by students rebelling against knee-high and ankle-high boots? Fashion’s revolt that furthered the iconic status of the “Oxford”…
Distinctive Style: The Timeless Oxford In HistoryVintage Style: The Timeless OxfordIconic Women With Intent Of Style: The Oxford Shoe
The basic body of the classic oxford is traditionally constructed as a seamless piece of leather. Interestingly, the oxford is historically considered a plain, formal shoe. Of course, oxfords have evolved in construction to include a variety of materials beyond calf leather such as patent leather and suede. It is the embellishments that provide further distinction. With details known as “Brogueing” with holes punched into the leather or“wingtips”, which feature a “W” shaped toe cap, that gives the shoe an appearance of a bird spreading its wings. Who knew that the wings of a bird was the reference to this classic shoe style? Choices of style. The oxford toe cap can either be “lined with two narrow rows of stitching, perforated holes along the end cap stitching (quarter-brogue), perforated holes along the end cap stitching and on the toe cap (semi-brogue) or a semi-brogue with the classical wing tip design (full-brogue)”. However the shoe presents itself in stylish design with iconic details or simple form, the oxford shoe is a versatile lace-up that earns its place within the collections of both men and women. Timeless style. Whether worn formal or casual, the oxford is a classic with modern fashion. Comfort with function and stylish in fashion. Diverse styling options with variations of personal preference, these classic and sleek and contemporaryoxfords are timeless footwear that can be worn throughout the year. Seasonless appeal, indeed…
Low Leather Style With Lacing: The Classic OxfordDapper Style For The Classic & Modern Man: The Oxford ShoeStrong Style Of Timeless Design: The Iconic “Oxford” Shoe
Consider the “Oxford”. Whether handcrafted from smooth or highly polished and shiny leather or suede delight, these classic shoes with a low instep and sleek design allow for stylistic and personal statements of style. With design, texture, color and style choices, the choice is certainly yours. Individual style of classic design. Dapper and sophisticated on the man and bold elegance on the woman, the laced front and stacked heel of style provide polished and timeless style. Perfection in a shoe. The quintessential shoe of timeless design and definitive style, indeed…
House Appeal 