LA Style Stories

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Blowin’ in the Wind

There’s nothing like a fabulous Kaftan, S.Kanouni. In the late 60’s and 70’s they were worn by Hippies and thankfully, inspired designers like YSL, Pucci and Oscar de la Renta to feature them in their runway shows. Vogue editor, Diana Vreeland, after a trip to Morocco, began wearing them to the office and said that they were “the most becoming fashion ever invented”, and I agree. I mean how can one not agree with Diana Vreeland? A single garment, loved and embraced by socialites, celebs, hippies and lets not forget the Palm Springs and Miami Beach crowd. I’m wearing mine as a bikini, Vitamin A, cover-up with a straw Fedora style hat, Gisele Tune, and flip-flops, Havianas. Kaftans come in a wide range of styles, from the very basic and inexpensive, to the traditional, to the highly embellished and ornate.  Aside from looking incredibly chic, a Kaftan will camouflage a number of figure flaws, which is like a free gift with purchase. If you don’t own one, I urge you to try one, out. I guarantee that you’ll feel and move differently, while wearing it, perhaps more dramatic and whimsical. Whatever you feel, it’s always better in a Kaftan.

*please treat your wardrobe well. many people worked very hard to get it to you.



Tangerine

Tangerine was my Dad’s favorite colour and favorite song. My favorite fashion era was the 70’s, where Grecian style dresses by Halston, Yves Saint Laurent, and Vionnet, were wildly popular. This dress, Zara, combines my Dad and my fashion sensibilities…and it means a lot. I’m wearing a metallic thong style sandal, YSL, it doesn’t compete with the dress rather it enhances it. This modified Grecian silhouette is a dream in its simplicity yet knocks you out with its “WOW” factor. There’s a beautiful balance between the fitted body and the drape of the single sleeve that displays constant fluid movement of the fabric – it is true, DRAMA!

Style-Tip: less is more, in regard to jewelry and accessories. This dress is bold and holds the eye’s focus. Extraneous pieces of jewelry, additional colour in shoes or handbags would be distracting. An ice cold cocktail is the only accessory, required.

Author

  • Felicia Arlin

    Felicia Arlin’s work as a stylist and costume designer has been featured in print, tv, film and on the red carpet. As a 20+ year veteran designer/merchandiser in the LA/NY garment industry her work has graced the racks of every major department store and specialty chain in the country. She is passionate about helping women look and feel confident no matter their age, shape or socioeconomic status. Her hope is to empower other women by sharing some of the things she’s learned along the way to better cultivate and express their own individual and ageless style.

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