Posts tagged Fashion Trends

2017 Bridal Trends That Are Worth A Look: Aisle Style

Don’t consider yourself the traditional bride? Here’s our list of the top 2017 trends that were beautiful, yet unexpected.

Move over white satin and full skirts…the recent New York Bridal Fashion Week foretold that weddings gowns are getting dramatic in new and unorthodox ways.  Don’t consider yourself the traditional bride? Here’s our list of the top 2017 trends that were beautiful, yet unexpected.

Tickled Pink

Pink is no longer reserved for Barbie Bride. The runways represented the full gamut, from the subtle to the vibrant.  Sabrina Dahan flecked white tulle with pastel floral appliqués. Naheem Khan and Houghton took it a step further with full silhouettes in light blush, lavenders, and peach tones. A Romona Keveza number of salmon satin embellished in darker toned flowers caught a lot of eyes, and things got wildly rosy when Christian Siriano managed to fit in the whole pink spectrum with a show stopping dress of a petal-like skirt that cascaded in ombre.

Similarly, black gowns no longer scream Morticia Adams or Elvira. Naheem Khan received a standing ovation for his ebony finale gown doused with rosettes and mantilla-inspired veil.

Nude Non-illusions

Saying vows are a moment of baring one’s heart and soul… and now also the neckline, stomach, and legs. Designers Berta and Mira Zwillinger took the lead on this trend with serious close-call coverage. Yet even bridal darlings like Angel Sanchez and Monique Lhuiller represented the trend with subtle peephole lines and daring cuts under sheer overlays.

It’s She Who Wears the Pants

A top emerging wedding dress trend that forgoes the dress all together. Christian Siriano sent down two options: one of a more traditional-like pantsuit, the other a sexy jumper. Lela Rose romanticized her pant version with a statement bow on the back. Carolina Herrera showcased a pant and shirt combo of her signature clean, pressed lines softened with a beautifully embroidered veil, while Monique Lhullier merged modern with traditional with a lace jumper fastened to a full train…. Who can dance in a long dress anyway?

Super Capes

Capes provided delicate modesty and a whole lot of style. The approach varied, with Marchesa sleeves flowing effortlessly down the arms, contrasted with Lela Rose’s more tailored button-down version. Elizabeth Fillmore and Naeem Khan were a tad more literal, as seen in the bow tied cape and high-low poncho looks, respectively. Claire Pettibone, Berta, and Monique Lhullier also offered up fluttering cape adornments.

Time for Take Off

In a day where brides typically wear up to three dresses on their Big Day, detachable elements offered up fresh looks available in a singular garment, as well as functionality. Romona Keveza solved the hassle of pinning up trains in between ceremony and reception with a removable train. Detachable bows on select looks from Sachin + Babi Noir could be changed out for glitzy belts or arm candy in time for the party. Marchesa and Reem Acra offered the most dramatic transformations with ruffled skirts and tulle layers that could be removed to unveil a more streamlined silhouette.

No matter what style you choose, let Sudsies help you preserve memories from your Big Day with our Bridal Dress Cleaning and Preservation services. Visit here for more information.

THE GUY’S GUIDE: SUDSIES 2014 MENSWEAR TREND REPORT & CARE TIPS

Let’s hear it for the boys!  The recent Milan Men’s Fashion Week showed that the male wardrobe has evolved way beyond the suit, t-shirt and jeans triad.  In fact, we too can have a little fun with our fashion selections with retro references, rockstar appeal, and even a little sheen.  After following all the major label runway shows, we compiled a 2014 Menswear Trend Report sharing our top picks for what should move on from the runway to street.  Of course, being the clean fanatics we are, we shared some care tips for each as well.

 

Vivienne Westwood
Photo by: Davide Maestri
Milan Men’s Fashion Week 2014

Activewear:  Understanding the active lifestyles of today, top designers introduced a more comfortable, albeit still luxe, side to their lines.  Marni upgraded traditional sweat pants and shirts via knitted materials, while Calvin Klein toppers included quilted-satin sweatshirts.  Vivienne Westwood presented three distinct versions of a track suit: one tight and grey, one baggy with black trim, and one a statement in all metallic gold.

Care tips:

  • Before purchasing, check the quality of the neckline and waistband to prevent over stretching
  • Don’t let the term “sweat” or “track” deter from proper care.  Even some athletic clothing require special treatment depending upon the fabric.  Check the labels carefully to determine if the garment is even safe to wash.  Easy-care or even delicate cycles may be best to maximize the life of the garment and reduce the dryer heat to “low.”
  • For knits, be mindful when putting on and taking off, so as not to stretch the neck.

 

 

 

Giorgio Armani
Photo by: Giovanni Giannoni
Milan Men’s Fashion Week 2014

A Softer Side:  Even traditional suits featured a softer silhouette.  Giorgio Armani fashioned his jackets after the cardigan to make them more relaxed.  Tailored pants were flecked with baggier trousers, yet still exuded the fine Italian tailoring.  Fabrics included velvet and corduroy.

Care tips:

  • Ensure proper hanging of these garments, using broad or heavily padded hangers to avoid warping.
  • If purchasing a two-piece suit, try to wear and clean together as much as possible to avoid uneven wear of one piece over another.
  • Never iron velvet – it can crush the fibers and leave an imprint.
  • While velvet should be dry-clean only, corduroy can be washed.  However, turn garment inside-out before placing in machine.  If ironing, run it over the wrong side of the fabric.

 

 

 

 

Gucci
Photo by: Giovanni Giannoni
Milan Men’s Fashion Week 2014

Rock On:  The soft and comfy were contrasted with rock-star influences.  Emporio Armani showed biker jackets of ponyskin underneath skinny pants of reflective sheens.  Gucci got tight with leather trousers and t-shirts, but also nodded to retro figures with pea coats and greek fisherman hats.

Care Tips:

  • The average consumer will probably own only one pair of leather pants, hence take care to find a pair that fits properly, yet comfortably.
  • Before wearing, treat with a leather protector to shield damage from rain… or beer spills.
  • Be selective about your cleaner, choosing one that specializes in leather.

 

 

 

 

Armor:  Dolce & Gabbana marched on with 11th century, Norman soldier-inspired gear, including open-faced chain-mail like balaclavas, sheepskin sweaters with Gothic crosses, and silk-covered overcoats painted with references to the Norman period in Sicily.

Care Tips:

  • Do not wash sheepskin with a darker colored pelt, as bleeding may occur.
  • Sheepskin can withstand some moisture, though it’s not ideal to have the garment soaked or used in lieu of a raincoat.  If this happens, gently blot with a clean towel.  Do not rub, as this will force moisture into the pelt.
  • Gently use tweezers to pull out any debris trapped in sheepskin.
  • When wearing silk, be particularly careful of snags from watches, rings or briefcases.

 

Mixing it Up:  In addition to looking good, garments on the Milan runway felt good too.  Designers played with unique fabric combinations to create new looks.  Flax was woven into cashmere for a bolder silhouette and outwear was refreshed with neoprene bonded to Tuscan wool.  Cavalli even created an ombre effect, fusing herringbone and zebra prints.

Care Tips:

  • Even if combined with another fabric, do not hang cashmere tops, as they are easily susceptible to shoulder “horns” left by hangers.
  • Cashmere can be washed in mild detergents or shampoo and cold water only.  Keep in mind that the material can take days to dry.  The material should not be wrung, but laid flat out to dry.  Press a clean towel on the garment to help remove excess water.
  • While neoprene can traditionally a tougher material, it is usually best to dry clean wool.  Gentle washing is possible, but understand it could result in shrinkage and/or loss of the material’s softness.
  • When pressing wool, set use steam heat only, never dry.

 

Remember, among Sudsies’ specialties are designer garment and couture care processes.  So feel free to leave the dirty work to us, so you can just focus on looking good.  Now, that’s a trend worth picking up!

 

For other resources on how to care for your most delicate garments, check out our Cloth Behind the Clothes Series by following the links:

References:  All photos used for Sudsies 2014 Menswear Trend Report were taken from the Women’s Wear Daily website and featured in this year’s Milan Men’s Fashion Week.  To view all of the Men Collections/Runway looks for the Autumn/Winter 2014 season, please go here:

.

An Alter[native] Holiday: Tips on how to Refresh your Wardrobe for the Season!

Food, drink, gifts… the holidays tend to bring out the decadence in everyone.  And party attire is no exception, but sometimes we don’t have the extra time or the extra funds to invest in new cocktail attire.  This season, we asked our alterations team to provide ideas on how to revamp our favorite, albeit dated, garments into updated pieces with just a few simple tweaks.

 

THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT:  Hemlines range all length this season, but generally, just-above-the-knee or tea-length can be tricky.

Shorten – Minis are still ever popular.  For the bold and the leggy, try bringing up the hem just a couple  inches for a younger look. Asymmetrical cuts with slightly longer backs are an even more modern take, plus provide extra coverage.

Lengthen – If your mini days are over, lengthening with a different material adds texture to an outfit.  Try a silk band with a velvet shift dress, or vice versa.  For a more architectural look, opt for a ruffled hem at the base of a pencil or other form-fitting skirt.

 

BEJEWELED:  Jewelry, phone cases, teeth…. bling is everywhere!  Garments are no exception, as even sweatshirts this season are embellished with gems and beads.

Subtle – Isolate an area of the garment – collar, pockets, sleeves, for example – and create a simple monochromatic pattern of oversized crystal and rhinestone flatbacks.  This can be done in the same color as the dress or in contrasting choice (white with black and vice versa, black with a baby blue dress, canary yellow with navy, etc.)

  • Elaborate – Cover the whole piece in an elaborate pattern, featuring all sizes, textures, and/or colors of rhinestones, crystals and beads.  This technique can be particularly striking on a mini dress, blazer and/or full skirt.

 

 

 

 

AT ARM’S LENGTH – For winter, sleeves of varying fabrics and silhouettes add a touch of warmth, but also appeal, to a garment.

Long – Create a slim long sleeve with an accent material, such as an elegant lace, sheer silk or leather.  Three-quarter length is also a classic option.

Short – Update with a strap or trim of cut lace that flows off the shoulder. Or, create a bold cap-sleeve of gemstones.

 

 

 

 

More information about Sudsies and its sewing and alternation services can be found at www.sudsies.com or by phoning 1.888.898.SUDS (7837).  You can visit us at our Miami Beach (6786 Collins Ave) or North Miami (12711 Biscayne Blvd) locations for a consultation or have us pick up your items directly from your home or other location of choice.

Your team at Sudsies wishes you a happy, safe and ever-fashionable holiday!!!

 

.

The Cloth Behind the Clothes: Part Six – METALLICS

We end our Fall Fashion Fabric Guide series with a bang… or shall we say with bling – metallics!  Let’s face it, women are always going to gravitate towards the shiny and pretty.  Sophisticated pieces of lamé, silks, brocades and jacquard were heavily represented on the runways this year, ranging in silhouettes from 60s-inspired to ethnic chic.  Even everyday items are fused with the trend, as seen with Tee and Cake’s silver metallic sweatshirt, Zara’s otherwise traditionally professional gold metallic pencil skirt, and metallic sheen jeans and leather pants by varying big name jean brands.

CARE CAUTIONS:

  • Metallic fibers are very delicate.  Most garments made from these materials are highly susceptible to damage from the repetitious rubbing associated with washing and drying machines and will need to be dry cleaned.
  • Perspiration and other moisture may cause the fabric to tarnish, therefore, should not be exposed to weather precipitation or heat conditions that may cause the wearer to perspire more than usual.
  • Brocade, jacquard and damask fabrics have raised patterns, so take care not to crush or warp the design by being seated for long periods and avoid jewelry that can catch and snag.

Well, that covers it.  If you need a refresher on what’s fashionable this season, and how to take excellent care of your favorite fabrics, please follow the links below.  We hope you found this guide useful, and remember that Sudsies specializes in intricate garments, including all the trends cited in our Guide.  Now, time to get shopping…Art Basel Miami is quickly approaching!

The Cloth Behind the Clothes:

.

The Cloth Behind the Clothes: Part Five – WHITE COLLARED SHIRT

The next pick on our Fall Fashion Fabric Guide is perhaps our favorite – yep, we’re talking about the white collared shirt!  Stock up, as this single garment is perhaps the most important staple, and most versatile, for any closet.  The white collared shirt is a timeless classic for its ability to complement any style.

Feeling empowered?  Pair with this year’s menswear looks, choosing a traditional look or adding a sexy twist.

Feeling flirty and feminine?   Take a cue from Carolina Herrera herself and her signature look by pairing a white blouse with a full skirt.

Not a fashion risk-taker?  A blouse can also tone down any bold trend pieces, so you still look conservative, but current.

Any hairspray, makeup and perfume should be applied before putting on a dress shirt, as these are the biggest culprits that contribute to yellowing and stains.

CARE CAUTIONS:

  • Cleaning these shirts are not as simple as their appearance.  It is recommended that white collared shirts are not placed in the dryer, or if so, for a very minimal amount to of time on low heat.
  • Avoid keeping in hamper too long, as sweat and oils can start to seep in and help premature yellowing.
  • Shirts should be ironed when slightly damp.

Take a look back at the previous parts of this blog series by clicking here:  Part One – KNITS, Part Two – LEATHER, Part Three – CAPES, and Part Four – FAUX FUR.

The Cloth Behind the Clothes: Part Four – FAUX FUR

We’re a warm-and-fuzzy kind of company, so our next pick for the Sudsies Fall Fashion Fabric Guide is faux fur.  A friendlier alternative to the real deal, many faux furs have a quality and texture that provide a soft feel and luxe look.  Northerners are strutting in oversized coats, shrugs and capes, but we South Floridians can pick up the trend with accent pieces, such as an infinity scarf, hat or lined items.

CARE CAUTIONS:

  • For minimal upkeep, select furs that are short in length.  Longer, shaggier options tend to knot and matt and require a higher level of professional cleaning.
  • With great caution, faux furs can be cleaned at home from time to time; however, never place in the dryer, as the fibers can melt and the damage is irreversible.
  • Hats need to be cleaned too, perhaps more so than other garments with all the oils, makeup and hair product residues accumulated from use.  Like coats, it is recommended that hats are professionally cleaned once or twice during the season and before storage.
  • Keep the fluff and sheen of the material with periodic brushing using a soft-bristled clothing brush.
  • Storage in a cool, dry place is especially important for faux fur since moisture can cause the fabrics to frizz.

Need to read up on previous parts of this blog series?  Click here Part One- KNITS, Part Two – LEATHER, Part Three – CAPES.

The Cloth Behind the Clothes: Part Two – LEATHER

In continuation of our Fall Fashion Fabric Guide series, we now bring our attention to leather.  A stand-alone statement piece or used in a hybrid form with other fabrics, leather was this year’s “it” material.  Leather is traditionally associated with a biker or rocker vibe, but this season, designers quilted it, used as trim or paneling, and fashioned into sleek silhouettes to present it in a more sophisticated light.

Care Cautions:

  • This material is an animal hide, not derived and woven from plant materials; therefore is prone to some imperfections.  A leather tanner will treat and color the materials to hide much of these imperfections, but over time, these treatments will wear away, re-exposing them, much in the same manner that makeup covers up blemishes but wears off over the course of the day.
  • Many professional cleaners recommend recoloring after cleaning to replace the finish that is naturally lost over time.
  • With leather and suede, it’s especially important to store in a cool place over the summer months.  Hides will stiffen from heat and humidity.  These materials are also more susceptible to moth damage.  That being said, never store in plastic, for this will only trap in heat and moisture.  A muslin cover stored indoors is the best alternative.

In case you missed it, check out the other Fall Fashion Fabrics in this Series by clicking here:  Part One – Knits.

The Cloth Behind The Clothes: Part One – KNITS

The Sudsies Fall Fashion Fabric Guide includes six of the 2013’s top fall trends.  Up first is knits! Slouchy, oversized, form-fitting, patterned, tightly woven, or intricately crocheted, knits are a classic fall go-to.  In his show, Marc Jacobs paired sweaters and pencil skirts for a new kind of “suit”, while Mara Hoffman showed large pullovers with skinny pants.

Care Cautions:

  • Before purchasing, keep in mind that knit fabrics are often stretched before even making it to stores during the processing process.  Knitted loops should be round.  Elongated or long loops are a sign that the garment had already been stretched.
  • Have extra drawer or shelf space available.  Ideally, knits should be stored flat with tissue.
  • If knits must be hung, use a properly-sized padded hanger for tops.  For bottoms, use a soft-clip hanger and clip so that the garment does not sag, stretch or droop.  Even if the article has hanging loops, do not use, as they will pull and distort the shape over time.
  • Networking is an important part of business, but try not to wear knits for functions that may require name tags, as the adhesive can create “fuzzy” damage when removed.
  • Avoid pushing up the sleeves.  Over time, the fabric will lose resiliency and hang shapelessly over the forearms. For South Floridians, save the knits for assuredly cool days to avoid the urge to hike up the sleeves.

.