Baby it's Cold Outside

It's time to take a cue from Greta Garbo and wrap yourself in luxurious furs and cozy sweaters. But rather than walk around in a snuggy-like fur, try the sophisticated style of Clara Bow:

Modern day interpretations of the classic furs include this yummy cotton candy design from Oscar de la Renta's Pre-Fall 2010 collection.

A minty fresh style from Zac Posen Pre-Fall 2010.

Classic and lovely looks from Carolina Herrera Pre-Fall 2010 use fur as an accent on the coat and layers with soft sweaters.

Classic femininity is in the details of this Jason Wu Pre-Fall 2010 look. A belted waist to emphasize the figure, shimmering skirt, textured tights that elongate the legs with the black heels and a delicate bun. So lovely...

Another belted look, but this time with a bigger punch in firey red. Michael Kors Pre-Fall 2010.

Sweater dressing is perfected with these various designs from Chanel Pre-Fall 2010.
Boho, retro, disco...

Warm layers that are feminine without being so bulky that they overpower the figure. Diane von Furstenberg Pre-Fall 2010.

The classic style of Greta Garbo.

Sweaters definitely don't have to be boring. Pringle of Scotland showcases sweaters that are easily compared to art. Their 3D quality makes them sculptural in design, with the middle sweater mirroring an abstract painting.

Burberry reinterprets their classic trench in a red fur.

It may be cold outside, but that doesn't mean you have to discard great design when you can choose from these warm and fuzzy beauties.

As you get cozy in sweaters and furs, you can warm up to Jack Frost and happily sing "Let it Snow."

Runway photos: Style.com

From Russia with Love

The winter winds have blown in with the flair of Russia, thanks to John Galliano. Rather than fight the chill, simply bundle up with a style that ranges from sheer elegance and decadent jewels, to folkloric dresses and warm coats.

Temperatures may drop below freezing, but elegance is not to be lost. With the graceful beauty of a swan, the sheer fabrics flutter across the runway as snowflakes drift about.

Across the spectrum, folk fabrics make their appearance. Rich in reds and blues, the designs whisper of military undertones and folk fantasies.

Are you ready to travel across snowy tundras in these pom-pom decorated heels?

"Girl with Berries", 1879 by Vasili Timofevev

Galliano's fabrics showcase the history of Russia as they mimic the folk dress where beauty can be found in the details.

Are you ready for the Russian winter? For a little inspiration, try the classic film Doctor Zhivago. This cinematic treat transports you to another era with fabulous costumes, an amazing original score and a captivating plotline.

Stylishly prepared to weather the winter frost in wools and fur. And don't forget the jeweled headdress.

Welcome winter.

From Russia with Love...

Runway Photos: Style.com

The Harem's Closet

Fashion was revolutionized in the early 1900s by the French designer Paul Poiret. Women were freed from the confines of the corset with his draped garmets as they embraced a new style to match their changing role in society.
The draping and innovative shapes by Poiret possessed an eastern feel. Wearing Poiret, or channeling his style as Balenciaga did for Fall 2009, makes you feel as if you're stepping into a harem. Feathers, soft silks, turbans, lampshade tunics, rich furs and harem pants, it's all in the Poiret style book.

Peggy Guggenheim

Balenciaga Fall 2009

I love the peek-a-boo lace bra. Quite fitting in a harem I'm sure.

Denise Poiret, seen here at the NY Plaza Hotel in 1913, was the muse behind Poiret's designs.

Like Balenciaga, John Galliano found his inner Poiret for this Fall's Dior collection. Turbans, fur trims, hobble skirts that narrow at the knee, as well as many more elements sing to the tune of Poiret.

You can see the eastern influence in the styling of the lampshade tunic. It's a bit like a shortened kimono.

1914

This pink dress is so sweet. The tassels at the waist make me think she grabbed the tie-backs from the harem's curtains to add this darling detail. Who knew pink and red could look this good together?

Paul Poiret design from the Met Museum.