Tony Duquette Lives On!

Tony Duquette, and American who specialized in designs for stage and film, was amazingly talented and highly inspirational to all that knew him. He was famous for his personal belief that "more is more" and was "known for his flair for exotic excess" (Iredale, 6). The California native sadly passed away in 1999 at the age of 85.

However, he is hardly gone. Proceeding his death, his design company was taken over by his business partner, Hutton Wilkinson. Duquette left behind a visual legacy that offers great opportunities for many people. One of these opportunities is occurring within the design house currently. Coach has partnered with the Duquette estate to create a limited edition jewelry collection, which will debut in February.

The collection is extremely flamboyant and over-the-top, two qualities that Duquette himself would be very proud. The most attractive aspect of the collection is that none of the prices exceed $500. This collection is bound to be a big hit. Keep your eyes open in February when you'll start seeing these gorgeous pieces in retail everywhere!

This gorgeous clutch is polyester satin and embossed leather with Swarovski crystals and hand-cut glass.

These dainty coiled snake charm necklaces are a must-have for the winter season!

These Coach bangles are enamel and gold-plated brass with Swarovski crystal starbursts.

Information on Tony Duquette acquired from Wikipedia and Women's Wear Daily 202:80, article by Jessica Iredale, page 6.

"Cloaks: Snuggies With Panache"

Cold weather is on its way! Break out your peacoat cloak! This fall, cloaks are all the rage amongst top designers. Cloaks made their debut appearance two years ago in Fall 2009, but haven't fully escaped the runway and hit the general public until now. These high-fashion garments are very different, but know how to draw in the attention--in a good way! Cloaks are a great way to get away with wearing even your pajamas out to the grocery store. They are polished and dressy and can conceal the excessively casual look you're hiding underneath! Cloaks are also a flash back in the fashion industry. They were highly popular in medieval times and in the early 19th century. This is definitely a trend that anyone can pull off.  So if you're out there looking for a new fall style to rock with jeans and boots or maybe even tights and heels...this is your look.

Reference article: New York Times by Marisa Meltzer, published October 5, 2011 

LAST HURRAH!

Hurry up all you online shoppers out there! Modcloth.com is having a huge sale that ends soon! For a limited time only, Modcloth is taking 70% off tons of styles from their online store!! For all of you that don't know, Modcloth is a retro online site for vintage and indie clothing. It's the perfect place to shop for an outfit you'll wear to that concert this weekend! If you love finding bargains then you definitely won't want to miss this! Check it out at www.modcloth.com !

Welcome to Rachel's RTW Fashion!!

Hi guys! My name is Rachel and I am a sophomore Apparel Merchandising major. I am a very artistic person, so I really love getting to study fashion and art. When I am not studying, I am involved in my university's wakeboarding team and in my sorority, Pi Beta Phi. Naturally, this blog is all about my favorite styles and must-haves for the season. I also try to incorporate some information that may be really interesting to active consumers like myself. My favorite season for fashion are summer and fall. If you're looking for some updated styles with a little shopping advice on the side, you've come to the right place! I hope you enjoy it!

Let's get this started off right! First, I want to share one of my new favorite styles with you. I don't know about you, but I was never into the low-cut neckline. Listen up for an alternative style that is much more attractive.
Have you been thinking of sporting the low-cut neckline this season? Think again. This season it's all about the low-cut back. This style is great for any occasion. The look can be fairly conservative but also super edgy. I am definitely liking this new style for anyone looking to try something a little different.
Some things to check on before rocking this style:

• Make sure the garment will stay on your shoulders. Some garments sleeves are too wide set across the top and since the back is low it will constantly be falling off your shoulders. Look out for this. 
• Make sure you find a bra that won't show through the garment. If you haven't already, go out and purchase the NuBra from www.nubra.net. They're adhesive and not too expensive. Perfect for low-back apparel.
• If there is any embroidery on the garment, make sure it's not too heavy for the fabric. The fabric will look like it's pulling and the garment will most likely not stay in place when you're wearing it.
• Finally, make sure the stitch quality will work with your lifestyle. By that, I mean if the garments edges are not sewn nicely, the edges will fray when rubbed again chairs, car seats, jackets, etc. 

What do you think? Will you try this style this season? Comment and tell me what you think!