Ponytails are a style staple globally but if you're struggling to think of ways to make yours look, well, more interesting and not so gym-chic, you're in luck because Fashion Week just served up six new twists on the classic style. From a simple, two-second trick that'll add an instant glam factor to dual-textured and two-toned styles to equestrian-esque takes on the look, you can be as adventurous or low-key as you like when it comes to refreshing an ol' classic. Take a look.
There were no harsh, graphic lines to the pastel makeup palette at the Lisa Maree show. Like the collection itself, it was soft, almost "dream-like" according to Nigel Stanislaus who headed up the Maybelline NY team. This was teamed with a two-toned, two-tier ponytail which lead hairstylist Maria Ardino described as a new take on a classic style.
When it comes to sexy swimwear, Lisa Maree knows her stuff. The queen of crochet didn't deviate too far from what she's known for; skin-baring pieces that mix poolside glamour with an I'm-on-holidays sense of fun. Abstract, photo-print florals in pale pastel hues made it pretty, whist handy-craft detailing added an ethnic vibe to the maxi dresses, cropped tanks and sheer languid trousers on display. Plaited hesian edging, knot-tied paneling, harness-style straps and laser-cut leather added a textural twist to the vacay-appropriate runway offerings. And the togs? There were plenty of Lisa's signature crochet work, as well as sexy side cut-out one pieces to boot.
The jumpsuit, romper, playsuit, all-in-one — whatever you want to call it, has proven to still be one of the hottest trends on the runway, shown in bright, block colours and soft, gauzy prints at RAFW. Designers Zimmermann, Marnie Skillings and Arnsdorf all opted for breezy full-length varieties, while Gary Bigeni, Manning Cartell and Shakuhachi kept lengths ankle-skimming and silhouettes streamlined. Bianca Spender, White Suede and Lisa Maree all played with proportions, cutting leg lengths mid-calf. We can't rave enough about the versatility of a jumpsuit — add a slouchy blazer and heels for cool Summer nights, or team with cute flats and statement jewels for an easy desk to dinner look.
Get your own RAFW-inspired jumpsuit at Net-a-Porter!
If you favour resort wear with a hint of animalistic flair, then Lisa Maree's Summer '11 line is sure to impress. Aptly titled 'Under My Skin', models sashayed down the runway in Black Swan-esque feather adorned swimsuits, breezy dresses and free flowing jumpsuits. Leather bustier maxi's provided the perfect after-five poolside look, while Lisa's signature crochet swim pieces still have a place on beaches near and far. Sexy cut-out one pieces came in bold prints and matching separates completed the tribal vibe. Subtle, it ain't, but then again a girl has to show off her wild side occassionally, doesn't she?
Trends: Leather, snakeskin prints, dip dye, crochet and jumpsuits.
Colours: Turquoise, magenta, black, cream and orange.
Accessories: Wings, wooden-sole clog sandals, ankle wrapping snakes and feather sleeves.
Key Looks: Colourful snakeskin printed one-pieces, leather bustier dresses and crochet bikinis in candy stripes and cream with black.
Get your own Lisa Maree wardrobe via Net-a-Porter.
Check out the images from the runway . . .
We heard from Fab that Lisa Maree's S/S 11/12 collection was inspired by "the native animals and landscape of Africa," but we didn't know quite how literally that would translate through to the makeup! Backstage we saw two amazing makeup looks — a Black Swan eye and a snakeskin face. Both designs sat atop a flawless makeup base — head of makeup, Clint Dowdell, used Nude by Night liquid mineral foundation and Mineral Cover. Lead hairstylist Maria Ardino was also inspired by the collection's futuristic feel and animals so created two hair looks — the first, a clean, futurist ponytail using Redken's Align 12 and Forceful 23 hairspray, and the second, a wet-look, slicked-back style that used Redken Hardwear 16 and Glass 01.
Summer to us spell sun, beach and of course bikinis, so when the S/S collections roll around we're always keen to see what's new on the swimwear front. We nabbed Lisa Maree of her eponymous swim label to tell us what's in store from her RAFW show today:
Tell us a bit about your inspiration for the S/S line? The collection is titled “Under My Skin”. This season my inspiration comes from the native animals and landscape of Africa and it’s infamous Serengeti Sunrise.
Who is the Lisa Maree Swimwear muse? Any recurring style icons? I would say a cross between Nicole Richie and Jessica Alba!
You feature a lot of crochet work in your designs – can we expect more of the same from your S/S 2011-12 line? Crochet is still very strong for us this season, although we have really expanded the silk resort wear and have introduced lycra swimwear in graphic prints.
What’s the hardest part about putting together a RAFW catwalk show? Coordinating everyone- we have so many different people involved in the show and working on their individual tasks, the tricky part is making sure it all comes together nicely
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