Bita Rad

New Karl & Rick Owens sneaker collaboration.

And why?

As a fashion student at Otis, my general education courses were all very nontraditional. I was introduced to TED Talks, by one of my Digital Media teachers, as a requirement for study content for one of my papers. Ever since, it’s been one of my favorite sites to check on. For those of you who don’t know, it is a website of interesting and really random lectures by experts.

Here is a video I found today about fashion copyright, knock-offs, “inspiration” etc. by professor Johanna Blakley at USC.

Every now and then, while researching designs at the office, I come across a designer whose unfamiliar name or work leaves a lasting impression on me. Newcomer Alice McColm is one of those names. Her first collection, which premiered at Graduate Fashion Week in June 2009 (Middlesex University alum), should be recognized by new and aspiring runway designers everywhere. While she doesn’t stray far from practicality and current trend, her approach to fabric and fur medium is rather new and extremely refreshing. It could effortlessly fit on the runways of New York Fashion Week (right alongside Rodarte). McColm has done an excellent job of finding the balance between what is familiar and what is new, while applying big statements to each look. I, for one, am excited to see what she comes up with next.

You may remember Tilda Swinton most recently as the Russian swimming love interest of Brad Pitt in The Curious Case Of Benjamin Button. She is not the most obvious choice for glamour and beauty but I think she is absolutely captivating. She also knows exactly how to dress to support her look and accentuate her extremely distinct features , and I think shes a noteworthy muse. Here are some images of her cover and spread for Another Magazine for Spring/Summer 09. She can also be seen here in her Lanvin Oscar ensemble from last month, and here looking ferocious in a September 2008 spread for W Magazine.

Ps. Wouldn’t she be great for Lanvin’s next campaign?. . .Hmm.