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What to Wear to Fashion Week: Your Ultimate Style Guide

Fashion week is the perfect opportunity to show off your personal style and catch a glimpse of the latest fashion trends. But with so many events and runway shows, it can be overwhelming to decide what to wear. That’s why I have created this ultimate guide to help you stand out and look your best at Fashion Week.

  1. Mix Prints: Gone are the days when matching prints were a fashion faux pas. Mixing prints is one of the hottest fashion trends, and Fashion Week is the perfect time to experiment with this bold style choice. Try pairing a printed top with a patterned skirt or pants. Just make sure the prints have a similar color scheme to avoid a clash of patterns.
  2. Layer like a Pro: Layering and draping are great ways to add depth and versatility to your outfit. Layer a jacket over a dress or drape a sweater over a blouse for a chic, effortless look. These styles are also perfect for adjusting your outfit to different temperatures throughout the day.
  3. Be Bold: Bright colors are a great way to make a statement and stand out in the crowd. Don’t be afraid to wear stand-out shades, like red, yellow, or green. If you’re not ready to commit to a full outfit, try adding a pop of color with your accessories. For example by wearing an all-grey outfit and adding a pop of color with bright-colored shoes.
  4. Prioritize Comfort: Fashion Week events involve a lot of walking and standing, so it’s important to prioritize comfort. Opt for comfortable shoes, like comfortable loafers or cowboy boots, instead of super high heels that can cause discomfort after a few hours. Alternatively, carry your heels in your handbag and wear a pair of flats, so you can swap them when you arrive at the event.
  5. Opt for Statement Accessories: Elevate your outfit and add a personal touch. Consider adding statement jewelry, a dramatic pair of earrings, a chic clutch, or a trendy hat to your outfit. Just be careful not to overdo it, as too many accessories can detract from your overall look.
  6. Play with Proportions and textures: This a great way to create an interesting and unique look. Pair a voluminous skirt with a fitted top or a cropped jacket with high-waisted pants. The key is to balance the proportions to create a cohesive outfit. Mixing and matching different textiles and textures can add depth and dimension to your outfit. Consider pairing a cozy sweater with a leather skirt, or a silk blouse with a denim jacket. These unexpected combinations will make your outfit stand out in a sea of fashionistas.
  7. Coordinate with a Friend: Twinning with friend is a great way to create a cohesive and stylish look. Match your outfits with complementary colors or patterns to create a stylish duo. Why stop at coordinating with one friend when you can coordinate with all of them? Coordinate your outfits with your entire group to create a stylish and cohesive look.
  8. Wear a Co-Ord Power Suit: A power suit is a great way to ensure that you look polished and put together. If you’re feeling stuck and don’t know what to wear, remember that a go-to matching set is always a safe bet. Whether it’s a chic skirt and blazer, or a stylish two-piece suit, these outfits require minimal effort but still look stylish and put together. What is more, if you make your outfit monochrome, that is a great way to create a cohesive and stylish look. Try matching your shoes to your bag or your jewelry to your outfit. Just make sure to keep the color scheme simple and cohesive.
  9. Find Your Statement Piece: Finally, consider finding your own sartorial uniform and sticking with it. This could be a signature style or a go-to outfit formula that works for you. It could be as simple as always wearing a blazer or incorporating a certain color into every outfit. Whatever it is, finding your sartorial uniform can simplify your outfit choices and make getting dressed for Fashion Week a breeze.

As a Swiss fashion blogger and illustrator, I know firsthand the excitement that comes with Fashion Week. Fashion Week can be overwhelming, and sometimes less is more. If you’re feeling unsure about your outfit, scale back and stick to a simple, classic look with a twist. A little black dress or a tailored suit will never go out of style, add a bold red lip and you should be all good.

FAQs

  • What is the best shoe style to wear to Fashion Week? Opt for stylish sneakers or loafers, or cowboy boots instead of high heels that can cause discomfort after a few hours.
  • What should I consider when choosing an outfit for Fashion Week? Consider the event dress code, the venue, and your personal style. Always pay close attention to the invitation, as it usually reflects the theme of the event too.
  • Can I mix and match bold pieces for my Fashion Week outfit? Yes, fashion is about taking risks, and having fun. So be bold, and try out those trends you have been wanting to test out.

In conclusion, Fashion Week is the ultimate opportunity to showcase your style and make a statement. By researching the event dress code, considering the venue, and prioritizing comfort, you can ensure that you look and feel your best. Experimenting with bold colors, prints, and textures, layering for versatility, and accessorizing to elevate your look are great ways to stand out in the crowd. And don’t forget to have fun and enjoy the experience – after all, fashion month only comes around twice a year!

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Why Paris Fashion Week is the most important event of the year?

Anna Blachut from A Stylish Story

Introduction: What is Paris Fashion Week?

Paris Fashion Week is a series of fashion shows, designer presentations and events that takes place twice a year. It is held semiannually in Paris, France with spring/summer and autumn/winter events. There is also Couture Week and several designers also create capsule and resort collections during the year.

SECTION 2: Why is Paris Fashion Week important?

Paris Fashion Week is one of the most important events in the Fashion Industry. It concludes the “Fashion Month” which takes place across the 4 main fashion capitals: New York, London, Milan and Paris. Fashion Week is a way for brands to present their new collections to fashion buyers, editors and critics. It is a key moment for fashion creators to connect during the fashion month that takes place twice a year.

SECTION 3: The History of PFW

Paris is the capital of France, hailed for its architecture, gastronomy, culture, history and of course, fashion. The Paris Fashion Week is actually longer than a week, it usually lasts between 10 to 12 days.

The first official Paris Fashion Week took place in October 1973, with the formation of the Fédération Française de la Couture. It was called the Battle of Versailles Fashion Show. The event was a cultural fundraiser that aimed to help restore the iconic French landmark: The Palace of Versailles. The show included iconic designers who still host their own fashion shows today each season during Fashion Month. The most recognisable names at The Battle of Versailles Fashion Show included designs from Yves Saint Laurent, Emanuel Ungaro, Christian Dior, Pierre Cardin and Hubert de Givenchy and Oscar de la Renta.

Between the very first Fashion Show in Paris, a multitude of iconic fashion moments took place during Paris Fashion Week. From Karl Lagerfeld’s otherworldly Chanel shows to Alexander McQueen’s performance pieces. Fast forward to today, at Paris’s shows are more dramatic than ever, a spray-painted Bella Hadid at Coperni for SS23 is living proof that fashion shows remain well and truly performance pieces.

Today, The Fédération de la haute couture et de la mode (FHCM) is the governing body for the French fashion industry. The Federation contributes to consolidating Paris’ role as the world capital of fashion, in particular through the Paris Fashion Week® that it coordinates. La Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode is a group of French fashion industry associations created in 1973. It brings together fashion brands that focus on creativity and cultural development.

SECTION 4: What makes Paris Fashion Week so special?

What you need to know in a nutshell: It is called a fashion show because that is exactly what it is: a blend of theatrical performances and sartorial style. With festoons of fabric fluttering by, air kisses between guests, and flashes of cameras at every turn. With the digital age advancing rapidly, both Instagram and TikTok are official partners of Paris Fashion Week. Today, with the selfie era in full swing, the fabulous, flamboyant style can be seen both from the runway and nestled on the front rows of fashion shows. Paris Fashion Week is the epitome of Parisian drama at its finest.

This year it ran from the 26th of September to the 4th of October 2022. It presented the new collections for spring-summer 2023. In total there were 105 brands, of which 64 physical shows and 41 presentations.

The most iconic fashion houses present their new collections at the Fashion Week in Paris, it is one of the most important events of the year for the industry. Then key appearances on the calendar include: Saint Laurent, Christian Dior, Balenciaga, Valentino, Givenchy, Loewe, Az factory, Gianbattista Valli, Stella McCartney, and this season’s unforgettable Coperni fashion show performance staring Bella Hadid. Iconic fashion brands whose shows are a must, are those of Chanel, Miu Miu and Louis Vuitton, which closed the week (and the Fashion Month) on the last day.

Two of the most anticipated fashion shows of this season that had their first debut on the PFW calendar, where the Victoria Beckham and Zimmermann fashion shows. Presenting for the first time in Paris during the Fashion Month is a huge honour for fashion designers because Paris is such a historical and iconic location for fashion.

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Sweet satin slip dresses for Spring

Spring Fashion Outfit Ideas with NA-KD.

Firstly, Happy First Day of Spring! So it finally the sun is out and the flowers are beginning to bloom which makes me so happy. I caught the nasty flu after traveling to Paris for Fashion Week and completely lost my voice. So I was extremely happy when I became healthy again to see that the season change was in full swing here in Geneva.

About NA-KD Fashion

With the shift into spring, I usually take time to do my Spring Cleaning and look for fashionable staples that I can wear through spring into late summer. Which is why I want to share with you may latest spring shopping haul from NA-KD. With the temperatures rising it means that it’s time to bring out those traditional transitional pieces such as classic trench coats and lighter layers. So today I wanted to share with you how I combine them with three Spring looks I styled from the Scandinavian brand NA-KD.

NA-KD is one of my favorite fashion brands when it comes to shopping online. They always have super cool collaborations with big Danish and Dutch fashion bloggers and influencers such as Claire Rose Cilteur, Hanna Schönberg, Josefine H. J., and even the ever so stylish former Victoria Secret model, Romee Strijd. What’s more, I have a discount code for -20% off the whole NA-KD website: AnnaSwissMermaid (valid for 48 hours as of today).

  1. Baby Blues: I love the cut of this blue slip dress in satin from NA-KD’s new spring collection. The waterfall neckline is so flattering and easy to wear in the warmer months. What’s more, the back is open with very thin straps that crisscross into a bow and are adjustable. This is a detail I find so pretty and feminine as well as being very practical. I really like the of cornflower blue with the tiny printed white flowers. It reminds me of classic Norwegian textiles in blue and white. I paired it with white boots, my Vivienne Westwood pearl necklace, and an oversized cashmere coat in blue from Maje. Which was an easy, fresh weekend look. Ideal for grabbing a mocha at my favorite local coffee shop and strolling around in the sunshine.
  2. Satin cream: Then there is this luscious lace-up slip dress in off-white with a small blue floral print all over it . It reminded me so much of the English Rose, Cottage Core Aesthetic, and the Netflix series Bridgerton, with the puffy sleeves, romantic empire waist, and soft cream color. I love the slit leg detail as well which is very practical for walking with ease. It feels like the perfect picnic dress for spring. I styled it with a pair of white leather high-top converse shoes and a light cream-colored suede coat.
  3. Pink Paradise: Lastly, I opted for a satin pink printed skirt. This is actually part of a set. I will probably get the matching top as I love Co-ord sets so much. The pink and purple circles are so cute and girly, and I like that there is a bit of white and black in the print so you can combine the skirt with either color. For this final outfit, I went for a simple white top to make sure the satin pink skirt remained the focal point and paired it with my white Chuck Taylor’s and super 90’s square shaped black sunnies.

So there you have it, three easy spring looks for the weekend with NA-KD fashion.

If you’re looking to update your wardrobe, I definitely recommend checking out their website as they have super stylish springtime looks, from uber-trendy styles to timeless wardrobe staples. Also if you do find something you absolutely love from the website don’t forget you an enjoy -20% off the whole NA-KD website with my discount code AnnaSwissMermaid (valid for 48 hours as of today). Wishing you a wonderful start to the new season.

ABOUT NAKD CIRCLE

Another great thing about NA-KD is that they have free climate-compensated shipping and returns. The fashion brand has a large variety of sustainably sourced clothing. To top it off, customers can sell their old clothes directly on NA-KD.com by clicking the “pre-loved” menu at the top of the website. Integrating the circular fashion economy. This is a marketplace for pre-loved fashion. On part of the NA-KD website you can find all available second hand items. I find this super cool because sometimes there are pieces from older collections that you wish you had gotten and NA-KD circle ensures you don’t get shopping FOMO. Plus the way it is set up, you just shop as usual. Simply put the item in your basket and check out just as easy as buying new products. How cool is that?

Click here to read more about how to style loungewear with NA-KD.

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Power Suits & Pops of Color at Paris Fashion Week

Paris Fashion Week: Day 1

We boarded the train early on Friday to be able to zip to the hotel freshen up and change before the first fashion show at 2 pm.

ABOUT THE LOOK

Bold prints paired with hot pink

The look I opted for was a modern take on power suits. A two-piece suit (the model of this suit is actually called Anna!). That featured a big checkered print all over it from the Danish brand Coster Copenhagen. The tailored suit in itself was quite a statement and I decided to add a youthful spin on it with a playful pop of hot pink accessories.

ABOUT THE FASHION SHOWS

The first show was Tiffany Brown, presented inside Palais de Tokyo, Europe’s largest center for contemporary creation. Many of the shows from big established industry players to new up-and-coming designers host their fashion shows’ each season in the Palais as it is one of the official partners of the Federation de La Haute Couture. The Tiffany Brown show was the designer’s third fashion show in Paris. It was a playful parade of diverse silhouettes in different shades of brown. The collection celebrated women, this was echoed through the styling of the models whose natural beauty, skin, and hair were enhanced rather than made up. Adding a touch of freshness and youth to the collection. Whilst Tiffany Brown insured a forward-thinking and modern take on the textiles by opting for vegan leather and fake fur as conscious alternatives for her new collection. What’s more Tiffany Brown will be opening two stores during the year, one in Soho this summer 2022 and one in Paris this fall 2022.

Paris Fashion Week at Palais de Tokyo Swiss Bloggers ANNA Blachut photo of runway Tiffany Brown fashion show
Paris Fashion Week at Palais de Tokyo Swiss Bloggers ANNA Blachut and Stephanie Olivier at the Tiffany Brown fashion show
Paris Fashion Week at Palais de Tokyo Swiss Bloggers ANNA Blachut and Bella Zofia at the Tiffany Brown fashion show

The next show we went to also took place in the Palais de Tokyo. For this one, we headed to a lower alcove where we watched the debut collection of Sheltersuit Label. Sheltersuit Label creates bold, durable, and unique clothing. Made from luxury upcycled deadstock materials, Sheltersuit Label products are designed to protect the wearer and protect people sleeping rough since a part of the revenue generated by Sheltersuit Label will support the Sheltersuit Foundation. The show opened with harrowing real-life recounts of homeless whose voices are so seldom heard. Before the models stomped around a large pile of original Shelterbags that had been stacked in the center of the runway. The Shelterbags was the centerpiece of the show as they act as a portable tent, a sheltered bed that rolls up into a bag. It comes with a built-in mattress and a pillow. The Shelterbag is waterproof and lightweight. The full collection consisted of 20 looks and over 60 pieces ranging from jeans and t-shirts to warm winter jackets.

I really loved the concept of this show, created by Bas Timmer. The designer collaborates with prestigious luxury brands including the French fashion house Chloé on this innovative fashion concept. Other notable industry members who are part of the project include RE/DONE, Lisa Konno, Gabriela Hearst, TenCate Outdoor Fabrics, Atelier Néerlandais, Cosi Tutti, Coebergh, Studio Joris de Groot, and Lucien Pages. The new Sheltersuit collection will be available in Autumn 2022.

ABOUT THE LOOK

Slinky Silver & a Pop of Green at the Ritz

After that, we rushed back to the hotel for a quick outfit change for the last two fashion shows which were to take place at the Ritz. As it was an event that would go until the evening, for this occasion I slid into a pair of huge velvet platforms, a long black jumpsuit and threw on a sparkling jacket before carefully packing all my essentials my beautiful new deep green THALIE bag.

As we whizzed over to the Place de Vendôme in the 1st arrondissement, I dabbed on some Lancôme’s mini red lipstick to add a bit of oomph to my look à la Française. I always have this mini red lipstick handy with me as it is great for on-the-go glam-ups. And let me tell you is one of those easy hacks to go from day to night in a flash!

ABOUT THE SHOW

At the Ritz, the collections presented included the designers’ Cedi Collection, Felicious, Jessica Jane, and Miashan. One of my favorite collections was Jessica Jane, which featured sequins and stripes, embroidery and flowing fabrics as well as the playful use of Toile de Jouy integrated into modern cuts such as a two-piece tracksuit.

The location was wonderful and I had never been inside the Ritz in Paris before so it was really exciting to roam around the hotel that Coco Chanel had once called home for 34 years and of which I had read so much about.

It was a lovely first day and although I was pretty exhausted by the end of it I was also so happy with how much we had been able to do in one day!

OUTFIT OF THE DAY

  • Suit: Coster Copenhagen
  • Mini Bag: Jacquemus
  • Shoes: Bershka
  • Pink Coat: Vintage from my stylish Grandma’s collection
  • Makeup: Charlotte Tilbury

OUTFIT OF THE NIGHT

  • Jumpsuit: Zara
  • Silver Jacket: Vintage
  • Coat: Missguided
  • Heels: Mango
  • Bag: THALIE
  • Makeup: Too Faced & Lancôme
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What to buy for Autumn before it sells out

The first of September brings back memories of back-to-school apprehension. The change in season means the introduction of light knits into one’s wardrobe. Autumn makes way for deep earthy tones of chocolate and olive green with pops of orange and pink. The perfect bases for buildable layers of leather & cashmere.

When it comes to new seasons it’s best to think ahead. Primarily because all the good stuff goes out of stock early. So to avoid any fashion FOMO I put together my autumnal essential shopping list to ensure no one misses out!  

So are you ready to plan for your autumn wardrobe?

My autumn wardrobe essentials 2021:

No. 1 PLEATED TENNIS SKIRTS

The collegiate preppy look is in, as is the subdued “old money” aesthetic. If you want to test drive this style, a staple piece to add to your wardrobe is a classic tennis skirt. A chalk-white one paired with a cream cashmere or tucked into an elegant silk blouse. You can also add an equestrian edge by adding a pair of knee-high leather boots. I recommend opting for a tennis skirt in neutral shades such as soft cream, stone, black, sky blue or navy so you can use it as a building block for your fall wardrobe.

Shop the best skirts

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No. 2 MICRO BAGS They have been the must-have accessory for the last 4 years. Since 2017 and Jacquemus’ Le Chiquito bag took the fashion world by storm, the trend has been the smaller the bag the better. The trend actually goes back further, these itty-bitty purses were especially popular in the early 1900s and were often carried by wealthy women because they were small, elegant, and held very little. They are the perfect “it-girl” accessory. Handbags remain at the forefront of fashion’s status symbol. However, there has been a definite shift towards less in-your-face logo blazing bags this season with more timeless silhouettes.

Shop the latest micro bag styles

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No. 3 KNITWEAR SETS I’m personally obsessed with cashmere and matching sets. So this trend is one I am super excited about. Twinsets also go hand in hand with the “old money” aesthetic that is becoming an increasingly prevalent trend, especially when worn in light tones and punctuated with a gold or pearl necklace.

No. 4 KNEE HIGH BOOTS My footwear of choice, year on year is a good quality pair of leather boots. They are my most versatile autumnal shoe, going from high-waisted denim jeans to flirty dresses. This is an item that really does sell out fast so I recommend stocking up on the shades you know you will wear time and time again. Be it dark grey, black, and an array of chocolate browns, knee-high boots are a must-have.

No. 5 THE PERFECT FALL FRAGRANCE Nothing tops off an outfit quite like the perfect perfume. I am always on the hunt for a scent that will compliment my outfit and I really like to switch it up with the temperature drops. Gravitating towards scents that have deeper notes such as sandalwood, musk, and oud. This said, I always have a couple of perfumes on rotation. I’m always on the look for new, slightly niche brands and fragrances so that I’m always wearing something just a little bit different, sometimes I even layer fragrances.

What’s on your Fall shopping list now?

So there you have it, those are the 5 AW21 trends that I can’t wait to wear.

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5 Swimwear Brands You Need To Know About

Summer is soon here which means swim season is upon us! I am an absolute fan of bathing suits. Ever since I was a kid I was collecting bikinis, and this habit has not been curbed in recent years. I’ve amassed a serious beachwear collection and am always on the hunt for the latest swim pieces to shine on the sand.

Of course, there are iconic swimwear designer brands such as Eres, Pucci, and Missoni Mare, which are established players in luxury resort wear. But today I want to share with you 5 lesser-known brands which offer truly unique and ever so flattering beachwear collections to keep you looking stylish this summer 2021.

In a quest for the best beach and poolside styles, here are my 5 favorite swimsuit brands for those looking for flattering cuts and fun styles.

Anna swiss mermaid blogger in luxury silver lurex swimsuit
Swimsuit: Malì Beachwear

5 swimwear brands that will keep you stylish this summer:

  1. Malì Beachwear
    • Malì is an Italian brand that creates handmade luxury swimsuits. Every piece is carefully crafted down to the smallest detail. I adore their elegant cuts and playful colors.
  2. Palmar Swimwear
    • This Swiss sustainable bikini and swimwear is perfect for the modern women. Designed in Zurich and made from recycled fabrics, their pieces are inspired by the beauty of the Mediterranean.
  3. Hunza G
    • Worn by style icons such as Rosie Huntington Whitley, this British designed and produced sustainable swimwear label is another favorite of mine. Hunza G’s one size fit approach provides stylish swimwear for all.
  4. Rinikini
    • The design of RiniKini’s beautiful handmade crochet bikinis are for true bohemian babes with a taste for luxury. Sold in luxury beach clubs in jetset locations, this swimsuit brand is perfect to wear for a full day at Scorpios in Mykonos or if you wish to catch the sunset at the Experimental Beach Club in Ibiza for example.
  5. Agua Bendita
    • I originally discovered this brand of when I visited Colombia. A favourite amongst Victoria Secret models, it brings Colombian design and craft to the world stage. I own two bikinis one of which us reversible which is so cool, as it feels like two bikinis! They have amazingly flattering cuts, and fabulous prints, Agua Bendita is a real favorite of mine.

So there you have it, 5 fashion forward swimsuit brands that will help you to look stylish this summer.

Anna swiss mermaid swimwear luxury beach wear Aqua Bendita
Anna swiss mermaid swimwear luxury beach
Bikini: Agua Bendita, Sunglasses: Quay Australia

SHOP THE LOOK

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PRO STYLE TIP: Take Two

Always bring along a spare swim piece with you if you are headed for a full day of sun fun and swimming. Indeed one thing I love doing when I’m at the pool or by the beach for a full day is to always pack at least 2 to 3 swimsuits with me. This is really good in terms of comfort as you know you have backups and won’t have to leave in a wet suit. Indeed in terms of hygiene it’s actually way better, because it is actually not great for your body to stay in a swimsuit once it’s wet. I always swap up for the dry one once I’ve gone swimming. So having an extra one is always helpful.