ZARA Fall/Winter Collection 2009

ZARA the high street store has definitely been stepping up their game as of late. Their F/W collection looks are heavily influenced by Balmain with the strong shoulders look and the retro back to 80s look. I may not be a big fan of shoulder pads but there is just something remotely eye-catchy about the jackets and blazers with a strong shoulder.

I feel the jackets and blazers with strong shoulders give both an androgynous yet feminine style at the same time. The sleek fitting cut of the jacket/blazer flatters the female body yet the strong shoulders sets of the androgynous touch of edgy menswear for the females.

Here's some of the garments from the F/W 2009 collection:

pics taken from zara.com

Some selected outfits and pieces that I like are as following:

I am definitely in love with both outfits as they are the classic colors that I wear and the shorts adds a touch of trendy chic to a classic outfit. Similarly, the strong shouldered dress on the right adds a bit of androgyny to a feminine dress. I can't necessarily say that I will pair these two outfits with heels though considering I hardly wear 'em because of my height and the fact that I walk too much and might I add too fast! Heels would only slow me down! Heh.

I personally could care less about the outfit on the left. My focus is the outfit on the right as I adore the tweed jacket and scarf although I'm not a fan of leggings. That however can be easily replace with a pair of straight cut or slim fitting jeans so, that's a score!

*all pics are taken from nitrolicious.com as the website has it on Flash*

I love the top portion of the outfit on the left but can't say the same bout the skirt. I am not a fan of fringe as it makes me cringe (hah, it rhymes!). I like the outfit on the right for its simplicity. I would opt for a simple tee or one with a graphic print, not necessarily a portrait and pair it with a cardigan and skirt as is. Come to think of it, I have a very similar short tweed skirt and a basic black cardigan so I'll definitely be donning this look come Fall.

To check out more garments, check out these links:

The F/W catalogue
The F/W outfits

Do check out their new collection in stores. They also have some killer shoes for Fall. In fact, they have a pair of knock-off of the Christian Louboutin Grey Python Pumps but done in peep-toe (and minus the red sole of course) instead in both black and grey. I saw the black pair in stores for $89.90 the last time I was there.

Christian Louboutin Grey Python Pumps

What do you think? Love it or loathe it? Leave a comment!

Celeb spotting: Miss Kardashian

Spotted: Kim Kardashian in a ZARA studded black blazer that is Balmain inspired.

Kim Kardashian in ZARA blazer

The ZARA blazer on a body form

Balmain blazer which inspired the ZARA version

I am personally not a fan of Kim Kardashian but there has been some raves over her ZARA blazer in the fashion blogger sphere. I recently spotted the blazer in ZARA and pondered about getting it. There were only 4 pieces left in the store and not wanting to miss out, I went back the next day to pick one up in my size. I could always return it within 30 days should I decide not to keep it.

Now here's my dilemma: Do I keep it or do I return it? I would personally define my style as classic with a touch of chic. I generally tend to shy away from trends as I prefer having garments that are timeless and classic. We know studs are a trend and one that keeps coming back, too. Yet, there is something about this studded blazer that is minimalist to me which tugs at my heart. The studs are not overtly done, kept minimal strictly to the lapel and they are a muted metallic silver that gleams so subtly under different lighting. Furthermore, the studs are not gargantuan which screams for attention. Yet, I just can't seem to make up my mind. So, do I keep it and make it part of my wardrobe or do I return it? Hmm..

Opinions, thoughts and feedback are welcomed!


*UPDATE*

Here's a pic of me with the blazer...

At this point, I am pretty much leaning towards returning the blazer but just thought I'd post a few pics of me wearing it.