From the Kulture Couture fashion show published on iPapier photography Anne-Marie Michel

Received what has to be the definitive fashion week look book in the mail yesterday from New York Magazine. That is not hyperbole folks, I’m actually attached to it and went to sleep with it last night. It consists of a myriad of photos, reviews and a show of the season (you’ll have to buy it to find out, or search the internet really hard). We call it the essential look book because almost every possible look you’ll want to have, or think up for the Spring 2008 season is included in this book. If there was any one disappointing thing, it’s that London is mysteriously absent. The book has New York, Milan and Paris, but not London. We’re not certain whether the British Fashion Council will throw a fit either since they created some mysterious rule that forbade website based photographers from being at the shows this season. Even though this is a book we wouldn’t put it past them. (shhhh the secret it out)

The long and short of it is that within the first 65 pages we were able to find several photos from shows that made us very happy. We also love the runway break down. Broken down neatly into designer name, DJ from the show, a section called paparazzi bait that lists out the celebs in the front row (Demi Moore made it to many shows, GI Jane 2 might be delayed) We’re somehow thinking that if New York Magazine actually decided to up and do a full on fashion magazine it could possibly give Vogue a run for it’s money or empire dress as it were.

Cover:

It should be on newstands everywhere soon.

One of the questions we often get is can you rework a previous season into your current collection. Many think it is gauche to do something like that but we say why not. Just recently I talked with our editor in chief about reworking something from a previous season. Industry snobs will turn their noses up and walk away in disdain, but she said that’s what “it” (being fashion) was all about. You take something, anything from last season and wear it by itself or mix it in with something new. As an example she showed me a photo from a shoot that happened February of last year to see how far she could take it.

As is alone the tunic above from Custo Barcelona would be great a season or two ago, but could it work this season? In the interest of saving money, according to Michelle (and now myself) yes. Matched up with a pair of dark stockings in the same color or possibly darker, it can reflect this season’s look. Even making alterations can work if another item plays well with the tunic. When she put the look together for the photo story her intention was not to say go out and get Custo Barcelona (much to the dismay of the designer?), her intention was to and I quote “give ideas as to what you could do for that particular season.”

To see the rest of the photo series and get your own ideas click here.

A couple of weeks back I posted a random thought that ended up coming out into 2 long paragraphs. I never expected the response from such a wide ranging group of influential bloggers. I guess the first thing that needed to be pointed out is that my publisher’s comments did not reflect my own. I recognize the appeal, need and usefulness of fashion blogging. It gives a voice to many in an industry that I think sometimes ignores what the masses want.

The very fact that I can post my personal thoughts on fashion means that format is bringing something relevant to the fashion discussion. If this medium did not exist I would be a visual merchandiser dressing windows somewhere in Miami. Instead I’m not. It’s cold, it’s New York and I would rather not be anywhere else. So to Runway Scoop, Almost Girl, Gary and the others that sought to set it straight, thanks, I agree.

A little late putting this up but still super important.This week the fashion bloggers are as vocal as ever touching on a variety of topics. Some interesting reads include a bloggers favorite hats for the winter. We point this out because milliners around the world are rejoicing at their newfound popularity again. Check out our interview with milliner Leah C early this year as an example. Gossip Girls abound without the Gossip Girls pricetag. Another eye raising topic this week was the over 40 crowd getting very fashionable. It’s all updated this week on the fashion web.

Celebrity Makeup Artist - and new blogger - Sam Fine stops by 55 Secret Street with his makeup secrets - and red velvet cupcakes!

Stiletto Jungle found a Lush-ous way to do good while you shop: Lush Charity Pot Lotion.

Bag Bliss’ newest obsession, the Knoxx Roan Weekend Handbag.

Bag Snob is obsessed with the Devi Kroell shopper bag!

Beauty Snob fulfills the ultimate beauty fantasy with Bobbi Brown!

Whether you’re dressing up or dressing down, Coquette shares her favorite hats to wear this winter.

Get the “Gossip Girl” look at Fashiontribes…even if you don’t have a GG sized bank account.

GlamChiczooms in on Victoria’s Secret’s Surrealist-inspired runway show.

KRiSTOPHER gives away a Gifts.com gift certificate. And she doesn’t even want brain in exchange.

My Fashion Life takes a look at the most recent concept in eco-chic - “Chopstick bras”.

Second City Style asks celebrities: Does middle age mean a fashion meltdown in "WTF Was She Thinking?": Grandma Jezebel edition

Be prepared for any party invite this season with StyleBakery.com’s list of 10 holiday must-haves.

Stylehive gives you a sneak peek of Marc Jacobs’ Visionaire 52 Private - sultry, gritty, and edgy photographs of our favorite celebs.

Yeah, Project Runway is back and The Jewelry Weblog is thrilled, even if they don’t use enough from the accessories wall still this season.

WELOVEBEAUTY.com discovers Celeb Makeup Artist Paul Starr’s newest obsession.