French Connection ‘Iron Eagle’ Embellished Strapless Dress

Now the French may not have always been our biggest fans, hence the Freedom Fry movement, but one thing all fashionistas can’t deny is the amazing fashion that resonates from this fiery country. Today, I think it is only appropriate to share my favorite French find… FRENCH CONNECTION (and yes, I know that the brand is a British retailer- but the name is my inspiration).

In 2001 French Connection became a controversial clothing brand with their sassy slogan FCUK. With the very similar spelling of a favorite word amongst most adults, thshite brand decided to exploit all the possibilities of a brilliant PR move. T-shirts with sayings like “lucky fcuk”, “fcuk this”, and “too busy to fcuk” (my personal favorite) began showing up everywhere and advertising the product in a whole new, cool fashion.

Halston Heritage ‘Carla Lady’ Leather flap bag

The ad campaigns didn’t last too long, as many people took offense to the blatant innuendos. But lucky for everyone, French Connection decided to take a new stance on fashion and began producing a much more stylish line of clothing geared towards a more luxurious market. The brand has really matured since 2006 and can be seen on tons of casual red carpet events. Celebrities and local girls on the town love the brand because each piece has something special; an embellishment, a beaded neckline, and an always flattering shape that doesn’t break the bank.

This dress is my pick for a fabulous fall fashion find. The French Connection ‘Iron Eagle’ Embellished Strapless Dress in black is perfect for a night on the town and will last throughout fall and transition well into winter. Pair it with some black Christian Louboutin patent pumps and a bright red clutch (like the option featured at right, the Halston Heritage ‘Carla Lady’ Leather flap bag) and you’re good to go. Make sure to get your hands on these picks before its too late!!

Xoxo

Amy Grace

During our time in their corporate office, a love for all things beautiful unfolded as Erin and I began to understand the back end of an empire that has broken the mold of beachwear. The whole concept behind Paula’s vision is based upon a feeling rather than any particular look or trend of the moment. Her passion is to create one of a kind swimwear that flatters any woman’s shape.

Prepping for the meeting was an essential and one of our top inquiries was how Paula was able to adjust not only to the vastly different culture in America but also the trends our nation so quickly embraces or rejects. However, it soon became clear that adopting an American way was not Paula’s goal but in fact the total opposite. Instead, this pioneer has decided to take her own vision and make it a reality. She has an almost ritual like nature to her thrice-yearly collections. She goes to Brazil, her native country, for inspiration, sketches and designs and then consults with her operations team there. The company does all the sowing and constructing in their Brazilian warehouse occupied with over a hundred employees.

Through the years, Vix has become a go-to brand for effortless poolside style, no matter what shape or size their consumer may be. Kelly Stacey, VP of Operations credits this to the infamous Bia cut. It is the staple suit for the company and has continuously been a best seller. This suit is perfect for a woman with curves or without- the adjustable triangles and fold over bottom truly flatter any woman’s shape- and I know because I own two (in different colors of course). The guarantee that these suits will last you long after the summer sun is just part of the appeal behind the designer swimwear line.

Talking with Kelly, it became clear that Vix is a first of it’s kind in an industry where consumers are cutting back on the extras. Vix’s prices range anywhere from $140-$210, which can be considered pricey for a small piece of fabric, typically worn during three months of the year- but that’s the difference between Vix and other beachwear brands- they’re styles are timeless and the quality is unmatched- not to mention, most women would pay ANYTHING for a suit that fits. Using only the best raw materials and adding special touches like 24 karat layered gold, real leather, and high quality lycra, VIx can boast that they are one of the few beachwear companies on the market that produces pieces made to last. By setting their standards high, Vix has garnered loyal fans who are ready for the next best thing from the creative company- clothing and accessories of course!

Lucky for all of us, Vix is focusing on a new concept that will provide consumers with a total resort wear line of dresses, sarongs, sandals, and beach bags. Their aim is to become a go to brand for any vacation needs a woman may have. Now, how easy would that be to pack? With all these new products being prepped for seasons to come, Kelly gave us a sneak peak into what will likely become a set of new bestsellers. I truly cannot wait to get my hands on the latest products for fall and I couldn’t help but inquire if a free standing store would ever make its way into Fashion Valley mall or Prospect Street- the answer is on the horizon.

To experience Vix for yourself, check out their website for great web exclusives, or better yet head to San Diego’s own carriers of Vix- Dianes, Gone Bananas, and Nordstrom. It was truly an honor to meet the women behind a line of swimwear that is not only consistently on trend but also remains classic through their flattering styles. I have to say my admiration for this brand has grown ten fold through the opportunity to meet and mingle with one San Diego’s own fashion trailblazer. Thank you to Paula, Kelly and the entire Vix team for all of your kindness.

Best Dressing to all and make sure to check out my pick of the week- the Aqua Vix Snake Bia Tube Top & Snake Bia Tube Bottom.

Snake Bia Tube Top & Snake Bia Tube Bottom, $79 each

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Xoxo

Amy Grace

Thanks to a new breed of shameless self-expression provided by a group of over 100,000 individuals- taking their uniqueness to the max. It was at the Electric Daisy Carnival in the famed Los Angeles’s Hollywood Bowl, where all this action went down.

An inexperienced raver myself, I was invited by my lovely cousin Rebecca to join in the dance party and try something new. I consider myself open to most endeavors- but I didn’t see this complete revolution of style coming my way. I expected some crazy kids in crazy clothes, running around, dancing their hearts out, and possibly participating in some illegal activity. Never did I realize that there is an entire culture devoted to PLUR- peace, love, unity, and respect. And through this mantra- they take on a new identity.

Key pieces to perfect a “ravealicious” look include: furry boots, beaded neon bracelets, neon anything actually, lingerie, fishnets, colorful make up, glow sticks, and comfortable shoes. Of course I show up in a True Religion jean skirt (which I think should be extinct from the human race), a neon Theory tank, cheetah bikini top, and old Michael Kors boots. Reb said I shouldn’t wear anything I didn’t mind throwing away after the fact. I obviously took her advice- and never have I ever felt so out of place.

The electronic music culture is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. The people are each in their own world but dancing as a collective group who worship the music. The clothes just enhance the overall experience. I imagine some if not many of these people are your typical CVS checker, quiet student, or overworked and underpaid employee- each looking for an outlet to channel their inner energy.

I doubt any of these trends will be hitting the runway in the upcoming seasons. But I will say I have a new respect for suspenders, neon, and tulle. If they don’t show up as the main course in fashion, they will surely each have some significant influence on the upcoming trends in our world. The dance revolution is not just a weekend fantasy- but a fast paced reality- ready to explode onto mainstream culture. Best dressing Gracie’s!

Since emerging onto the fashion scene, Winn has already teamed up with fashion royalties. Grace Styling’s impressive client portfolio includes the likes of Saks 5^th Avenue, Nordstrom, and a multitude of national boutiques. In addition, Grace Styling has styled several editorial shoots for various local and regional publications, quickly becoming the go-to resource for a dose of effortlessly chic style. Grace Styling’s strengths lie in a commitment to bringing out individuality with a glamorized twist in each woman and man they work with- from models to housewives to a corporate partner.

All Grace Styling services are preluded by an evaluation of each client’s current lifestyle by synchronizing one’s social and professional identity. This guides the development of their desired image and results in a transformed personal style.

Welcome to the world of luxury. Relax, and let Grace Styling guide you through an indulgent evolution of style. Best Dressing!

Inteview with local fashion stylist: Amy Grace Winn

A little something about me – I am drawn to other strong and ambitious women. I like to see the fearless go after what they want and make things happen. There is quite a difference between saying the things you want to achieve or aspire to be and then actually making those ambitions a reality. Growing up in San Diego myself, I was immediately interested in finding out the skinny on Amy Grace Winn. This local girl has drive and an eye for aesthetics. Plus we both have a deep affinity for Christian Louboutin and an ongoing infatuation with Chanel handbags….

RSP: What is your current position in the fashion industry? (Feel free to include previous experience as well).
I currently own and operate a fashion styling business based in San Diego. Grace Styling specializes in wardrobe renovations, personal shopping, day of event styling, fashion show production and photo shoot styling. Since starting my the business this past August, I have produced a fashion series at Stingaree during the month of October, styled a shoot for Pacific Magazine, done multiple TV and radio pieces on how to dress for certain occasions, write a monthly fashion blog for DiscoverSD.com, and have styled multiple clients in San Diego and Las Vegas.

RSP: Which fashion designers or runway trends influence your overall look?
I like to think that I have a sophisticated look that follows the current trends while always staying classic. I am drawn to full, complete looks- I like the idea of three pieces to pull everything together. Vests, belts, and blazers are my go to’s for easy put-together looks. My statement pieces tend to appear on my feet and shoulder. I have a serious thing for Christian Louboutin shoes and Chanel purses.

I draw a lot of inspiration from runway trends via Fendi, Burberry (circa Christopher Bailey), and Gucci. I think these three lines have a very strong understanding of what is in style for each season while also creating timelessness in every trend they tackle.

RSP: What is your most prized fashion possession?

My shoe collection. I wouldn’t trade any one of them for anything.