I AM LOVE

Cinema and theater have a long history of collaborating with designers.  Just think of the memorable clothes by Givenchy for Audrey Hepburn in "Breakfast at Tiffany's".

The latest successful collaboration is in the film "I Am Love" ("Io Sono L'Amore"), an international film by Luca Guadagnino which was a hit at Sundance and other film festivals this year.  In it, Tilda Swinton plays a Russian-born matriarch of an aristocratic Milanese family.  Raf Simons for Jil Sander created the iconic red sheath dress, as well as the rest of Swinton's wardrobe.

"I Am Love" ("Io Sono L'Amore") film

I haven't seen the film yet as it will be widely released in the US on June 18th.  However, the wardrobe from Jil Sander apparently embodies Swinton's haute bourgeoise character and follows her development from suppression in the upper classes to release in passion.  The Jil Sander store will carry a limited edition of the red shift dress.

Tilda Swinton as Emma Recchi in "I Am Love"

To achieve a similar Upper Class Look, focus on:

• Simplicity in cut, detail and color
• Clean, tidy, and very neat hair and make-up
• Minimal jewelry - just (expensive) pearls, diamonds, gold or platinum

Because of its simplicity, the Classy Look relies on very high quality fabrics and fabulous fit to look Perfect.

Let me know if any of you get to see the movie!  I am intrigued by the sublime cinematography and haunting score from John Adams.

TRAVEL TRICKS

Travel Style dilemma:  You only want carry-on luggage to avoid checked bag fees.  How many outfits can you fit in?

The trick is to make what you have work twice (or thrice) as hard.  We begin with a basic travelling dress:  a fitted sheath in a stretch fabric blend for comfort.  The light ruching on the side adds soft drape.

Airport to Lunch

For the airport, comfort is key:

• Throw on a knit, like this cotton capelet
• Distressed leather shoes are surprisingly comfortable with the platform style and thick, rubber soles
• Ballet flats work just as well and make it easy to put your shoes through security
• The look can go straight from the airport to a lunch appointment or casual meeting.

For your evening look, 

Evening Outfit

• Switch to a stretch, marabou bolero for packable, evening glam
• A wide, accent belt cinches your waist
• Black, suede booties with ruching and a bow finish the look
• The booties can work the next day with black cigarette pants

If you don't want to accent your waistline, a long scarf wound around is flattering.  A structured blazer on top can also make your look office-worthy.

Geometric cut-outs on suede, peep-toes & buckles on leather

These are tried and tested.  I just came from a 3-day trip with workout clothes, 2 casual, 2 daytime and 2 nighttime outfits, all within one roller case.  Airlines can't keep you from being chic!

UPTOWN DOWNTOWN GIRL

You have a classic sheath dress that makes you look sharp in the office or polished at reunions.  But can you give it "Downtown" style for times when you just want to meet up with your friends?  You bet!

• Top it with an informal jacket that cuts close to the body.  
• Calf-length boots on nude legs are great for springtime.
• A whimsical accent flower can lighten the mood.
• Another easy trick is to put a wide belt on which instantly changes the dress.  (Be careful if you are trying to hide tummy bulge though.)

Now you get double-duty on your hard-working sheath dress.  That's perfect for Recessionistas!