Olivier Rousteing, Balmain, and the Fierce Metallic / Fall 2013

Ever since the young, brilliant, and mysterious Olivier Rousteing took over the House of Balmain in 2011; the entire aesthetic of Balmain had re-imagined itself in super-luxury opulence; a look more synonymous with that of it's original creator of which Balmain is named.

This Season, at Paris Fashion Week, Rousteing's Fall 2013 Collection for Balmain was no exception to the rule. A sparkling, highly-detailed, exaggerated, and extravagant showcase grounded by heavy forms, rich metallics, and stark shapes; Rousteing's aesthetic boasts a confidence and power equaled only be the era it clearly reflects; the affluent 80's. "More Balmain than Balmain has ever been before..." is a totally accurate sentiment.

We are smitten and inspired by the atmosphere and presence of these incredible clothes; evoking an ideal that moves beyond just the clothing itself. It's identity, it's magnificence, it's gauche, it's gaudy, it's too much, it's over-powered, and it's fabulous. From the glistening satin of the material, to the tightly cinched, belted waists, to the rigidly formed shoulders and geometric coat forms - it's, once again, architectural, iconic, dramatic, and brilliant in almost every visual sense. There is only one type of woman who could wear clothing this powerful, and that, I assure you, is a rare woman of an unparalleled, enigmatic beauty. A showstopping presentation! Bravo, Olivier!

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The Details, The Details / Balmain #Spring 2013

I can't say anything that will bring any more majesty to the glory of Balmain's stunning Spring 2013 Showcase. Jaw-dropping textures, detailing, print-work, and styling. Fashion at this level is ultimate.

Trending for Fall! #StudLove

Fall is the best season for Fashion for so many reasons that go beyond just layering. The scarves, the big coats, the over-sized knits and carry-alls, and of course the boots! And this season is no exception; we've seen fantastic leather, rich blacks, brilliant furs, and bold metallics dominate the Runways this year in celebration of Fall. But now there's just a little extra; studs.

Studs are an accent I like to think of as a pseudo-classic. They aren't classic in the traditional sense, as in an eternal style. They are classic as a modern accessory; as in they are multi-seasonal, and can be worn subtly with sophistication, or excessively with explosive flair. They are a fantastic and easy way to add metallic texture and colour to any outfit - whether to create a punk edge or just add an unusual sense of glamour. They are also remarkably easy to use for Do-It-Yourself projects; typically sold in bulk quite cheaply, and can be applied to everything from hats, to shoes, to pockets, and collars (just in case you need to go easy on the wallet). And they just happen to be perfectly complimentary to everything Fall Fashion is famous for; including animal print, fur, and rich leather.

Studs have quickly become a Fall must-have this season, and have graced the leather of almost every High Fashion name from Burberry to Balmain. Add dimensional flair to your outfit this season and invest in #StudLove!

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Ajak Deng is a Metallic Phenom #Obsessed

I've worshipped Ajak Deng for a while. The Sudan-born, Melbourne-based model is one of the strongest, boldest faces in the industry; and has walked for everyone from Chloe, to Lanvin, to Givenchy, to Marc by Marc ever since her breakout at Paris Fashion Week in 2010. She also happens to be an incredibly talented Editorial model and, since her launch, has participated in some of the best Editorial spreads in North America and beyond.

City Dweller features Deng in an industrialized landscape of intersecting lines, stark monochromatics, and reflective metals and textures. There is an obvious juxtaposition to the robotic nature of her imagery set against an evolving and ironically organic urban landscape; but what's more interesting is that she is the object rather than the subject. She isn't the human, she is the building. She is the architecture and the statue, and in that, almost alien. Shot by Julia Noni and Styled by Barbara Loison for Obsession Magazine, Deng is stoic and powerful in Couture Chanel, Balmain, Balenciaga, and Prada. 

Photos courtesy of Fashion Gone Rogue