My Fashion Life

Who better to run to for fashion advice than Constance White? With over 15 years in the business White is unarguably an expert in her field. Currently working as Style Director for eBay, her previous posts have included stints at The New York Times, Elle, and WWD. White has also shared her fabulous knowledge on shows such as Project Runway, E! Fashion File and Oprah and her work has appeared in publications such as British Vogue. For those who are always in need of a fashion fix, check out her blog Fashion is my life for great insider tips!

So fashion week is just days away…any shows you’re looking forward to in particular?

It really is just days away. I’m feeling the pressure of a packed schedule. Nonetheless, I’m looking forward to Narciso Rodriguez, Proenza Schouler, Phillip Lim, Peter Som for Bill Blass, it’s his first collection for the storied house and he’s so talented. I’m curious to see what Francisco Costa will do at Calvin Klein this time and what Patrick Robinson has done for GAP. Marc Jacobs is a given because he’s always innovative.

Any are there any new designers that we should keep an eye on this season?

I always like to see what newer talents are doing. There’s often some pleasant surprise. Among newer names, keep an eye on Chris Benz, Doo.Ri, Abaete, Alexander wang, Akiko Ogawa, Adam Lippes, Victor Glemaud (haven’t seen his work but he’s getting a lot of buzz), Richard Chai. Wow, now that I think of it, there are a lot of great, new talents around. That makes it more exciting.

What major trends do you predict will emerge from the Autumn/Winter 08 collections?

Autumn/Winter trends to look out for include bulky knits, lots of gray, red. Forties influences. Apres Ski, Russian, tapestries and prints.

There are SO many looks to choose from this Spring/Summer 08, that we’re practically spoilt for choice but not too sure where to start. What key items should we focus on when updating our wardrobe for the season ahead?

Key items for Spring/Summer: the Peep-toe shoe. A long, breezy dress (maxi). A silk top. A pair of wide-leg pants -sailor or otherwise. A printed dress (art or nature print). A trench coat. Just one or two of these will spice up your wardrobe.

Before Valentino held his final show last week he was quoted in the press as saying that in fashion, “There is little creativity and too much business.” What are your thoughts?

Easy for Val to say, he’s out of it now. There’s still a lot of creativity in fashion on the runways and in how people dress themselves personally, but we have certainly entered the age of big business. There are more public fashion companies, for instance, than ever and there’s more mass-market fashion available to the public.

You recently confessed on your blog that you like many others have a love for Uggs…but what are your views on Crocs?

Crocs - They look like they’d attack me if I tried to put them on.

What was the most bizarre fashion trend of 2007?

The weirdest fashion trend in 2007 has to be Amy Winehouse’s winged eyeliner.

If money wasn’t an issue, what would be number one on your shopping list for Spring?

If money were no object, I’d invest in a limited edition Comme des Garcons coat.

Favourite online boutique?

I don’t have a favourite online boutique. I browse and shop all over

What are you currently listening to on your iPod?

Right now on my iPod I’m listening to: Bob Marley, Rita Marley, Amy Winehouse, Tears for Fears, Ras Michael & The Sons of Negus, Michael Jackson. Eclectic, yes.

How would you describe your style?

My Style: Not as eclectic as my playlist. Personalized understatement.

Finally…what’s the best piece of advice you’ve been given?

Everything changes so hang in there through the bad times and totally enjoy the good times.

[Image]